Best 32 inch smart TV: top models for value & quality 2024

Top 5 32-inch smart TVs compared
Smart TV features and connectivity
Picture quality and display technology
Price comparison and value analysis
Expert reviews and user feedback

Top 5 32-inch smart TVs compared

Looking for a compact yet feature-rich smart TV? We’ve evaluated the top 32-inch models available in the UK market to help you make an informed decision. Here’s our detailed comparison of the five best options for 2024.

Samsung Q50A: premium picture quality

The Samsung Q50A leads the pack with its exceptional QLED panel, offering superior color reproduction and image quality that’s rare in this size category. With a 1080p resolution and HDR10+ support, this model delivers remarkably smooth images and vibrant colors. The TV runs on Samsung’s refined Tizen OS, providing access to all major streaming platforms.

LG 32LQ6300: excellent all-rounder

LG’s 32LQ6300 stands out as a versatile performer, featuring a 720p LED display with HDR support. What sets this model apart is its Game Optimizer feature, making it an excellent choice for casual gaming. The webOS platform offers a user-friendly interface and comprehensive app support. The TV delivers natural, consistent picture quality and above-average audio performance for its size class.

TCL 32SF540K: smart features at value

The TCL 32SF540K impresses with its full HD resolution and integrated Amazon Fire TV system. This model particularly shines with its modern, bezel-less design and support for HDR10, which is uncommon in non-4K TVs of this size. The inclusion of dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity makes it a strong contender in the smart TV category. According to TechRadar, its DTS Virtual X technology significantly enhances the audio experience.

Hisense 32A4KTUK: budget QLED option

Hisense’s offering brings QLED technology to a more accessible price point. The 32A4KTUK features a 1080p QLED panel with Quantum Dot color technology, providing rich, vibrant images. The VIDAA operating system offers a streamlined smart TV experience, while the DTS Virtual X sound technology delivers impressive audio performance for its class. What Hi-Fi notes its Natural Colour Enhancer technology as a standout feature.

JVC LT-32CR230: budget-friendly choice

The JVC LT-32CR230 represents excellent value with its Roku TV platform integration. While it features a basic 720p LED display, its user-friendly interface and comprehensive streaming app support make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. CNET highlights its decent gaming performance and intuitive smart features as key selling points.

[Continuing to the next section…]

Smart TV features and connectivity

When examining the smart TV features and connectivity options of leading 32-inch TVs in 2024, there’s significant variation in the platforms and capabilities offered. Let’s explore the key aspects that set these models apart.

Smart TV platforms

Different manufacturers employ various operating systems, each with distinct advantages. The Samsung Q50A utilizes the Tizen OS, known for its intuitive interface and smooth navigation. Meanwhile, the LG 32LQ6300 features webOS, which offers excellent app support and user-friendly menus.

The TCL 32SF540K comes with Amazon Fire TV built-in, providing seamless integration with Alexa voice control and access to a vast library of streaming apps. This platform has gained popularity for its user-friendly interface and stable performance.

Connectivity options

HDMI ports: Most models offer multiple HDMI inputs, with the TCL 32SF540K featuring HDMI 1.4 ports
Wi-Fi capabilities: Dual-band 5GHz Wi-Fi is standard on premium models
USB connections: Usually one or two ports for media playback
Bluetooth functionality: Available for wireless audio devices and peripherals

Streaming capabilities

Modern 32-inch smart TVs come preloaded with popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The integration varies by platform, with some offering more comprehensive app stores than others. According to CNET’s TV buying guide, the availability of specific apps should be verified before purchase, especially for regional streaming services.

Voice control and smart home integration

Voice control capabilities have become increasingly important in smart TVs. The TCL 32SF540K offers Alexa integration through its Fire TV platform, while Samsung’s Tizen OS provides its own voice assistant alongside compatibility with popular smart home ecosystems. This feature allows users to control their TV, search for content, and even manage other connected devices through voice commands.

When evaluating connectivity features, it’s crucial to consider both current and future needs. While most 32-inch smart TVs offer adequate connectivity for basic use, models like the Samsung Q50A and LG 32LQ6300 provide more robust options for users who plan to connect multiple devices or integrate their TV into a smart home setup.

Picture quality and display technology

When examining the display technology and picture quality of 32-inch smart TVs, there are several key factors that distinguish the top performers in 2024. The latest models offer various panel technologies and resolutions that cater to different viewing preferences and budgets.

Panel technologies compared

Among 32-inch TVs, QLED panels represent the premium segment, with models like the Samsung Q50A and Hisense 32A4KTUK leading the way. These QLED displays offer superior color reproduction and brightness compared to standard LED panels, making them ideal for bright room viewing and delivering more vibrant content. According to display technology experts, QLED technology provides notably better color accuracy and wider viewing angles.

Resolution options

In the 32-inch category, you’ll typically find three resolution options:

HD Ready (720p) – Found in budget models like the JVC LT-32CR230
Full HD (1080p) – Featured in mid-range options like the TCL 32SF540K
4K Ultra HD – Rare in this size but available in premium models

HDR support and color processing

HDR capability has become increasingly important for picture quality. The Samsung Q50A supports HDR10+, while the TCL 32SF540K offers standard HDR10 support. Modern HDR processing can significantly improve contrast and color accuracy, even on smaller screens.

Motion handling and processing

Picture processing capabilities vary significantly between models:

Samsung’s Ultra Clean View processor provides superior upscaling and motion handling
LG’s 32LQ6300 offers natural motion but may struggle with fast-moving scenes
TCL and Hisense models incorporate their own motion enhancement technologies for smoother playback

Viewing angle considerations

Viewing angles remain a challenge for many 32-inch TVs, particularly those using standard LED panels. QLED models generally offer better off-angle viewing, maintaining color accuracy and contrast when viewed from the side. However, due to the smaller screen size, this is less of a concern compared to larger TVs.

While 32-inch TVs may not offer the same advanced display features as their larger counterparts, manufacturers have made significant strides in improving picture quality through better panel technology and processing capabilities. Display testing experts note that these improvements have made modern 32-inch TVs considerably better performers than previous generations, particularly in terms of color accuracy and contrast.

Price comparison and value analysis

When analyzing the price-to-value ratio of 32-inch smart TVs in 2024, there’s a significant variation across different models and brands. Let’s break down the pricing tiers and what consumers can expect at each level.

Budget tier (£150-£250)

At the lower end of the price spectrum, the JVC LT-32CR230 stands out as an excellent budget choice, typically priced between £150-£250. Despite its affordable price point, it offers the reliable Roku TV platform and decent gaming performance. The TCL 32SF540K also falls into this category, providing remarkable value with its Full HD resolution and Fire TV integration.

Mid-range tier (£250-£350)

In the mid-range segment, the LG 32LQ6300 and Hisense 32A4KTUK offer enhanced features that justify their higher price tags. The Hisense model particularly impresses with its QLED panel and Quantum Dot color technology, making it an excellent value proposition at this price point. These TVs strike a balance between affordability and advanced features, making them suitable for users seeking quality without breaking the bank.

Premium tier (£350-£450)

At the premium end, the Samsung Q50A commands a higher price due to its superior QLED panel and advanced processing capabilities. While it represents a larger investment, the enhanced picture quality and color accuracy make it a worthwhile choice for viewers who prioritize image quality. According to TechRadar’s analysis, the premium features justify the higher price point for discerning viewers.

Value considerations

When assessing value, it’s crucial to consider several factors beyond just the initial price:

Smart platform functionality and user experience
Panel technology and picture quality
Audio performance
Build quality and durability
Energy efficiency and running costs

The TCL and JVC models offer exceptional value for basic smart TV functionality, while the Samsung and Hisense QLED options provide superior picture quality for those willing to invest more. The LG 32LQ6300 hits a sweet spot, offering a balanced combination of features and performance at a reasonable price point.

For most users, the mid-range options provide the best value, offering significant improvements over budget models without the premium price tag of high-end alternatives. However, budget-conscious buyers can still find satisfactory performance in the lower price bracket, especially with models featuring established smart platforms like Roku TV or Fire TV.

Expert reviews and user feedback

When evaluating expert reviews and user feedback for the top 32-inch smart TVs in the UK market, several key patterns emerge regarding performance, value, and overall satisfaction. Let’s examine what experts and users are saying about the leading models.

Samsung Q50A performance insights

The Samsung Q50A has garnered significant praise for its QLED panel, which is relatively rare in the 32-inch category. According to expert reviews, the TV delivers exceptional color accuracy and vibrancy, with HDR10+ support enhancing the viewing experience. Users particularly appreciate:

Superior color reproduction and contrast levels
Smooth motion handling for sports and action scenes
Responsive Tizen smart TV interface
Above-average built-in audio quality

LG 32LQ6300 user experiences

The LG 32LQ6300 has received positive feedback for its balanced performance and value proposition. Users consistently highlight:

Natural and consistent picture quality
Impressive gaming performance despite lacking premium features
User-friendly webOS platform
Reliable smart TV functionality

However, some users note issues with black uniformity and motion handling in fast-paced scenes. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall satisfaction rate remains high, particularly considering the price point.

TCL 32SF540K feedback analysis

The TCL 32SF540K has emerged as a strong contender in the budget segment, with reviews highlighting its impressive feature set for the price. Users appreciate:

Solid HDR10 performance
Responsive Fire TV interface
Strong wireless connectivity options
Modern, bezel-less design

The main criticisms center around audio quality and build materials, though these are considered acceptable compromises given the competitive pricing.

Professional testing insights

Professional testing has revealed some interesting patterns across these models. Laboratory testing shows that while none of these TVs match the performance of larger, premium models, they excel in their intended use cases:

Samsung Q50A leads in color accuracy and brightness
LG 32LQ6300 offers the best gaming response times
TCL 32SF540K provides the best value-to-performance ratio

Audio performance remains a common limitation across all models, with experts recommending external speakers or soundbars for those seeking premium audio quality.

Long-term reliability reports

Extended use feedback from consumers indicates strong reliability across these models, with minimal reports of technical issues or failures. The Samsung and LG models particularly stand out for their build quality and durability, while the TCL offers impressive longevity considering its lower price point.

Best 32 Inch Smart TV: Top Models for Value & Quality 2024