TCL 32-inch 3-Series Roku Smart TV Review is It Worth Buying

Description

Advantages of the TCL 32-inch 3-Series Roku Smart TV

The TCL 32-inch 3-Series 720p Roku Smart TV – 32S335 immediately caught my attention with its compact size and versatile features. As someone who appreciates a balance between functionality and simplicity, this TV delivered in more ways than one. Its 32-inch display is ideal for a bedroom or small living room, fitting seamlessly into tighter spaces without compromising on performance.

The built-in Roku platform is a huge win. With access to over 500,000 movies and TV episodes, I found myself spoiled for choice when it came to streaming content. Whether it was Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, or even niche apps like cooking channels, the TV handled everything without a hitch. The dual-band Wi-Fi ensured that streaming was smooth, even in areas of my home where Wi-Fi sometimes struggles.

Another positive feature is the Easy Voice Control that works seamlessly with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. I tested it out by asking Alexa to switch between inputs and launch specific apps, and the response was impressively quick. No fumbling for remotes in the dark anymore!

Key benefits include:

• Compact and lightweight design, weighing just 8.2 lbs with the stand.
• User-friendly interface thanks to the Roku platform.
• Voice control compatibility with multiple assistants.
• 720p HD resolution delivering clear and vibrant visuals for its size.

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite its many strengths, there are some areas for improvement with this TV. The 720p resolution, while sufficient for smaller screens, may not satisfy users accustomed to Full HD or 4K displays. Watching fast-paced sports or action movies, I noticed a slight lack of sharpness compared to higher-resolution TVs.

The TV’s built-in speakers, while functional, don’t pack much punch. If you’re someone who values immersive sound, you might want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers. Additionally, while the 3 HDMI ports and other input options are appreciated, I found the lack of Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones or speakers to be a minor inconvenience.

Less favorable aspects include:

• 720p resolution may feel dated for some users.
• Audio quality isn’t the strongest.
• No Bluetooth for external audio accessories.
• Limited advanced customization options in picture settings.

Performance and Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this TV is how straightforward it is to set up and operate. I’m far from a tech wizard, but the Roku interface made it easy to log in to my streaming accounts and start watching within minutes. The 60Hz refresh rate is suitable for casual viewing, and I didn’t experience any lag while navigating menus or using apps.

The inclusion of 3 HDMI ports is a thoughtful touch, allowing me to connect my gaming console, a Blu-ray player, and a Chromecast all at once. There’s also a USB port that doubles as a media player, which came in handy for viewing photos and videos directly from a flash drive.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek and minimalistic design of this TV deserves a mention. Its dimensions of 28.8 x 18.9 x 7.1 inches (with the stand) make it compact and easy to place on a small table or mount on the wall. I appreciated the lightweight build, which made it easy to move around without needing a second pair of hands.

The black bezel surrounding the screen is thin enough not to be distracting, and the overall aesthetic blends well with most home interiors. While the plastic construction feels sturdy, it doesn’t scream premium. That said, it’s a reasonable compromise given the price point.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to competitors like the Amazon Fire TV 32-inch or Insignia 720p Smart TV, the Roku platform is a significant advantage. Roku’s interface is often lauded for being intuitive and ad-light, unlike some competitors that push their own ecosystems aggressively. While the Amazon Fire TV offers better smart home integration with Alexa devices, I found the TCL’s voice control features to hold their own.

In terms of audio quality, both the Insignia and Amazon Fire TV models slightly edge out the TCL, but they also cost more. If you prioritize affordability alongside streaming versatility, this TV is a solid contender.

Price Performance

When evaluating the price to quality ratio, this TV delivers impressive value. Its features, like voice control, dual-band Wi-Fi, and the wealth of streaming options, make it a strong choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly smart TV. While it doesn’t boast 4K resolution or Dolby Vision, it’s more than capable of meeting the needs of casual viewers who want a hassle-free experience.

For the price, you’re getting a reliable entry-level smart TV that punches above its weight in terms of functionality. It’s especially appealing for students, small households, or as a secondary TV in guest rooms.

In testing the TCL 32-inch 3-Series Roku Smart TV, I found it to be a well-rounded product with a few limitations. Whether it’s worth it depends on your priorities. For those who value a streamlined streaming experience, decent HD visuals, and easy setup, this TV is a winner. For audiophiles or picture-quality purists, additional investments in external hardware might be necessary.

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