TCL 32-inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV 32S327 review and features explained

Description

Design and Build Quality

The TCL 32-inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV (model 32S327) instantly caught my attention with its sleek and compact design. It feels light yet sturdy, weighing just 9.4 pounds, which makes it super easy to move around. The 28.8 x 19.1-inch frame is perfect for smaller spaces like bedrooms, dorm rooms, or even a cozy office setup. I especially liked the clean look of the direct-lit LED panel, which provides a modern aesthetic without being overly flashy. The bezels are thin enough to keep the focus on the screen, adding to the viewing experience.

The build quality, though solid, isn’t exactly premium. I noticed the plastic frame might not feel as high-end as some pricier alternatives, but honestly, for a budget-friendly TV, it does the job well. The included stand is stable, though if you’re planning to wall-mount, the TV’s lightweight design makes installation a breeze.

Key Benefits

• Full HD 1080p resolution delivers crisp, vibrant visuals.
• Compact size and lightweight make it ideal for smaller spaces.
• Roku TV integration means access to endless streaming options.
• Multiple inputs (3 HDMI ports, 1 USB, RF, and more) ensure versatility for various devices.

Performance and Features

I’ve tested quite a few TVs over the years, but this one surprised me with its performance at such an affordable price. The 1080p resolution truly shines here, providing sharp details and vibrant colors. Watching fast-moving action scenes was a breeze thanks to the 60Hz refresh rate, which effectively minimizes motion blur. Whether I was binge-watching a Netflix series or enjoying a gaming session, the picture quality remained consistent and engaging.

The Roku TV operating system is, without a doubt, the star feature. The interface is intuitive and simple to navigate, even for someone who’s not tech-savvy. I loved having access to over 5,000 streaming channels featuring more than 500,000 movies and TV episodes. Plus, the voice control functionality, which works with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, was an unexpected bonus. Saying things like “Play Stranger Things” or “Switch to HDMI 2” made me feel like I was living in the future.

However, the built-in speakers left a bit to be desired. While the 5-watt output is fine for casual TV watching, I’d definitely recommend pairing it with external speakers or a soundbar for a more immersive audio experience.

Favorable Attributes

• Roku mobile app compatibility lets you control the TV from your phone.
• Voice control integration for hands-free operation.
• Dual-band wireless connection ensures a stable streaming experience.
• Direct-lit LED technology offers even light distribution.

Areas for Improvement

• Audio quality is underwhelming; an external sound system is highly recommended.
• The plastic build might not feel premium to some users.
• Limited advanced picture settings for those who like to tweak visuals.

Inputs and Connectivity

This TV is packed with all the inputs you could need, including three HDMI ports, one USB port, RF input, composite input, headphone jack, and optical audio out. I was able to connect my gaming console, a Blu-ray player, and a streaming stick without running out of ports. The dual-band 802.11n wireless connection was pretty reliable, and I didn’t experience any buffering issues while streaming. The USB port was a nice touch, allowing me to plug in a flash drive to view photos and videos or play music.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to similar options, a few models come to mind. The Samsung M4500 offers a comparable HD resolution but lacks the intuitive Roku OS integration, making it less user-friendly for streaming enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Vizio D-Series has better audio quality but doesn’t match the streaming versatility of this TCL model.

Where this TV truly excels is in its accessibility and ease of use, thanks to the Roku interface. While competitors might offer slightly better build quality or enhanced audio, they often come at a higher price point or lack the simplicity that makes this device stand out.

True Value

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, this TV offers incredible value. It might not have the bells and whistles of higher-end models, but it delivers solid performance where it matters most—picture quality and streaming capabilities. If you’re on a budget and want a no-fuss, feature-packed smart TV, this is an excellent choice. While the sound system could use an upgrade, the affordable quality of this product makes it a fantastic deal.

Additional information