When selecting the best 32-inch television, it is essential to consider both the physical dimensions and the hardware specifications of the device. For example, the LG LR60 has a thickness of 9 cm, requiring more space, while the Samsung The Frame 32LS03C features less than 3 cm of depth and can function as a piece of art.
Furthermore, it is recommended to prioritize higher resolutions and technologies that enhance color quality and image contrast, while also opting for models with greater energy efficiency. Tecnoblog compiled a list of eight 32-inch Smart TV models, presenting pros and cons from brands such as TCL, Samsung, LG, AOC, Aiwa, and Philco.
Smart TV Models Reviewed
The TCL S5400 is an entry-level Smart TV with a 32-inch screen and thin metal bezels. It uses an LCD panel with DLED backlighting and Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) to display high-definition content. However, its declared maximum brightness of only 220 nits limits visibility in environments with solar reflections.
Although it supports HDR10, providing 10-bit color depth, colors may appear saturated in darker scenes due to fixed brightness metadata. The Dolby Audio system aims to improve sound clarity for a more balanced auditory experience. The TCL S5400 operates with the Android TV operating system, allowing voice commands for content search, app streaming, or music playback, with an estimated energy consumption of 5 kWh per month.
The Samsung HD H5000F is designed for less demanding uses. Its 32-inch LED screen has HD resolution (1366 x 768 pixels), resulting in fewer visual details compared to a Full HD TV, which reduces image texture and contours. Conversely, PurColor technology ensures more vibrant colors, and HDR10+ support automatically enhances contrast. The sound also adjusts automatically according to ambient noise. This Smart TV runs on the Tizen system and consumes about 3.6 kWh monthly, in addition to integrating the Knox security system to protect data and passwords.
The LG LR60 is another entry-level Smart TV, equipped with a 32-inch LED screen. Its Alpha 5 AI Gen6 processor performs upscaling, but only for content with a resolution lower than the native screen resolution, which is 1366 x 768 pixels. HDR10 provides 10-bit color depth, and an AI feature adjusts brightness according to the room lighting. The sound experience is enriched by virtual 5.1 surround sound. The TV uses the webOS system and includes a game panel that displays metrics, such as FPS, without interrupting the game. Its estimated monthly consumption is 5.06 kWh.
The AOC 32S5135 is also positioned as a basic Smart TV focused on offering good cost-benefit. This model features a 32-inch DLED screen with extremely thin bezels, giving it a more refined look. However, its resolution is limited to the HD standard. The TV does not support HDR and has a brightness restricted to 200 nits, which makes viewing difficult in very bright locations. For audio, it has a two-channel stereo system with Dolby Digital technology. The operating system is Roku OS, compatible with Alexa, Apple Home, and Apple AirPlay, with an approximate energy expenditure of 5.69 kWh per month.
The The Frame 32LS03C is ideal for those seeking elegance and a minimalist look. With only 2.5 cm thickness, this 32-inch TV features customizable frames and anti-reflection technology, making it look like a painting when mounted on the wall. Its QLED screen offers a wider range of colors and contrast than traditional LCD screens. It has native Full HD resolution and HDR10+ support for adjusting brightness mapping in each scene. A differential feature is the motion sensor, capable of turning off the device if no presence is detected. Energy consumption is around 5.4 kWh/month.
The Aiwa Android HD is a simple 32-inch Smart TV with DLED backlighting, limited to playing HD videos and content. Despite being elegant and having ultra-thin bezels of only 1.4 mm, it supports HDR10 to optimize colors and contrast. The IPS panel improves viewing at wider angles, and the Dolby Audio sound system promises richer and more immersive sound. Estimated consumption is 4.81 kWh per month, and it operates with Android TV, integrating voice commands via Google Assistant.
The Philco PTV32G70RCH focuses on providing a basic image experience. This 32-inch television uses an LED backlit LCD panel with a maximum resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels (HD). It includes Dolby Audio to balance sounds but does not support image optimization features like HDR or Dolby Vision, making it a good alternative for secondary use, such as in the kitchen or office. The Smart TV runs on Roku OS and comes pre-installed with Netflix, YouTube, and Globoplay, consuming an average of 3.86 kWh per month.
A slightly better value-for-money model is the Philco PTV32K34RKGB. Also with a 32-inch LED screen and HD resolution, this device stands out for its infinity bezel design, giving it a more sophisticated look. Image quality is enhanced by HDR10, which expands color depth to 10 bits. The sound system features the Dolby Audio badge and 20 WRMs of power for greater immersion. Consuming about 3.3 kWh monthly, it uses the Roku OS system for accessing streaming applications, although it does not have Bluetooth support.
Final Considerations on Choice
When deciding which 32-inch TV to purchase, it is crucial to analyze the physical and technical characteristics of the device. It is important to note that the AOC 32S5135 is the most economical option on the list, costing less than R$ 900. Although limited to HD resolution, it offers the Roku OS system and thin bezels for a modern design.
32-inch TVs are suitable for smaller rooms because they take up less space and provide comfort at short viewing distances. Furthermore, they have more accessible prices than larger models (above 40 inches), fitting into tighter budgets.
Determining the ideal TV size depends on the distance between the sofa and the device. A common industry reference suggests dividing this distance (in centimeters) by three. Following this rule, a 40-inch TV would be appropriate for a distance of 1.2 meters between the sofa and the TV. However, personal preferences should complement this formula.
A 32-inch TV has a diagonal of 81.28 cm (considering 1 inch = 2.54 cm). Generally, these TVs measure between 40 cm and 45 cm in height and between 70 cm and 80 cm in width, varying depending on the model. Although 20-inch TVs are rare and often limited to open broadcast signals, the current industry works with models of at least 24 inches.
It is possible to use a 32-inch Smart TV as a PC monitor through an HDMI cable, allowing dual use without needing a separate monitor. However, it must be noted that a 32-inch TV requires significant space on the desk and can cause discomfort due to excessive proximity to the screen. Additionally, TVs usually have higher input lag compared to monitors, which can cause a slight delay between mouse or keyboard commands and the action displayed on the screen.