TCL 32S325 32 Inch Roku Smart LED TV review for budget-friendly entertainment

Description

Sleek and Compact Design

The TCL 32S325 struck me right away with its modern and minimalist design. Its flat, black frame is both slim and lightweight, making it incredibly easy to move around. I set it up in the bedroom without any help, as the 8.6-pound weight was manageable even for someone like me, who isn’t exactly a bodybuilder. The compact 32-inch screen fits well in smaller spaces, and whether it’s wall-mounted or perched on its sturdy stand, it doesn’t eat up too much room. While the plastic build doesn’t scream luxury, it feels durable enough to withstand daily use. For anyone looking for a TV that is stylish yet unobtrusive, this one certainly ticks that box.

Intuitive Smart Features

Navigating the Roku TV interface was, quite honestly, a breeze. I adore how user-friendly and intuitive the system is—no convoluted menus or endless button pressing. With access to over 500,000 movies and TV episodes, it felt like a treasure trove of entertainment at my fingertips. The dual-band Wi-Fi connection was stable, even when streaming in HD, and apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube loaded quickly. Pairing it with Alexa or Google Assistant added a layer of convenience. For instance, I could adjust the volume or switch apps without fumbling for the remote. However, if you’re not tech-savvy, it might take a bit of time to explore all the features, but I promise it’s worth it.

Picture Quality and Performance

The 720p HD resolution delivers a crisp picture, though it’s not going to blow you away with 4K-level details. Watching my favorite sitcoms and animated movies was enjoyable, thanks to the direct-lit LED technology, which provides impressive brightness and contrast. Colors appear vibrant but not overly saturated, and I didn’t notice any significant lag during fast-paced scenes. That said, the 720p resolution might feel dated to some, particularly if you’ve grown accustomed to higher-definition screens. Still, for a TV in this price range, the image clarity and vividness are more than satisfactory.

Sound and Audio Output

The 5-watt speakers are decent but not phenomenal. Dialogue comes through clearly, which is great when binge-watching dramas or comedies. However, the sound lacks depth and bass, especially during action-packed sequences or music-heavy scenes. I ended up connecting my soundbar via the optical audio output, which made a significant difference. There’s also a headphone jack, which I used when my kids were sleeping, and I didn’t want to disturb them. If you’re an audiophile, this might not fully meet your expectations, but for casual viewing, it gets the job done.

Connectivity and Inputs

This TV offers a lot of connectivity options for its size. With 3 HDMI ports, I had no trouble hooking up my gaming console, Blu-ray player, and streaming stick all at once. The USB port came in handy for playing family photos and videos during get-togethers, and it supports a variety of file formats, including MKV, MP4, and AIFF. The inclusion of a composite input and RF connection ensures compatibility with older devices, which was a lifesaver when my dad wanted to relive his VHS collection. It’s clear that this TV aims to cater to both modern and nostalgic users.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight design fits snugly into smaller spaces.
• User-friendly Roku TV interface simplifies streaming and navigation.
• Dual-band Wi-Fi ensures a stable connection for HD streaming.
• Multiple input options, including 3 HDMI ports and a USB port, provide excellent versatility.
• Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility offer convenient hands-free control.

Negative Attributes

• 720p resolution may feel outdated compared to 4K options.
• Built-in speakers lack powerful bass and depth.
• Plastic build, while durable, doesn’t exude premium quality.
• Limited advanced picture settings for those who love tweaking visuals.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to similar models, the Insignia 32-inch Fire TV comes to mind as a close rival. Both offer smart functionality, but the Fire TV integrates Alexa more seamlessly, which might appeal to Amazon ecosystem users. However, I found the Roku interface more straightforward and less cluttered, making it more beginner-friendly. Meanwhile, the Samsung M4500 Series excels in picture quality with slightly better contrasts and deeper blacks, but it falls short in terms of app variety and affordability. If your focus is on ease of use and accessibility, this product stands out as a stronger contender.

True Value

Considering the price point, this TV offers excellent bang for your buck. It’s an ideal choice for secondary rooms, dorms, or anyone on a budget who still wants smart functionality and decent picture quality. While it doesn’t boast the latest features like 4K or HDR, it delivers solid performance for everyday viewing. The cost-efficiency lies in its simplicity and practicality. If you’re not chasing cutting-edge tech but need a dependable and versatile TV, this would be a smart investment.

Additional information