As amazing as they are, not all of us have the spare space or cash for some of the largest and most feature-packed TVs on the market. Yes, a 65-inch OLED TV will blow you away in a showroom as it plays 4K HDR clips from movies like Avatar: The Way Of Water, but sometimes even a 55-inch smart TV won't comfortably fit into a living room. Or, perhaps you're looking to stream your favourites in that spare room when the big TV's been hijacked by the household's resident reality fan. Either way, that's where the best 32-inch smart TVs come in.
With movies hitting the small screen almost as fast as they're shown at the cinema, streaming the latest releases at home is fast becoming the norm. While a 32-inch TV won't offer the same experience as a trip to the big screen, if you're settling in for a movie night or TV marathon having a set with a wide range of smart apps will deliver a huge amount of choice, thanks in part to the rise of subscription streaming services like Apple TV+.
The best 32-inch smart TVs
Best overall 32-inch smart TV
Best 32-inch QLED smart TV
Our go-to brands are here, with the likes of Samsung and Hisense providing some excellent QLED and HDR models that ensure vibrant colour, great contrast levels and deep blacks. If you've got your heart set on 4K resolution, a traditional 32-inch TV won't reach these heights. However, a monitor equipped with smart apps, speakers and a remote might – and we've found one that delivers that Ultra High Definition detail.

As for sound, most 43-inch TVs and smaller are often notorious for tinny output with poor bass. That's why we always recommend investing in one of the best soundbars to sit neatly underneath the screen. We've had the pleasure of listening to ones which support advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos. However, we've still selected TVs with better than average built-in audio where possible (for those who don't want the extra clutter of a soundbar). So, let's take a look at the 32-inch TVs which are perfect for the biggest shows, games and films.
How we chose the best 32-inch TVs
We've selected the best 32-inch TVs based on reliable and trusted brands, average user reviews, price, and suitability for each use case. We look carefully at the technical specifications of all products before recommending them to ensure that they will meet buyers' requirements without the need for costly additions to work as intended. With all of our selections for the best 32-inch TVs, we've looked for a balance of price with display quality, picture resolution, audio features, build quality and overall design. We also look for good connectivity options and a wide range of smart TV apps. All of our writers may also choose products based on hands-on experience where we own or have reviewed products ourselves. Retailers are selected based on price, availability and reputation as reliable and trusted sellers. Find out more about how we recommend products.
All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best 32-inch TVs in 2025
1.
Hisense 32-inch Full HD QLED Smart TV 32A5NQTUK
Best overall 32-inch smart TV

We all have our favourite brands, but when a name like Hisense (normally known for its mid-budget sets) delivers a TV that goes this far above expectations, we sit up and take note. This 32-inch Hisense 32E5NQTUK is a bit of a heavyweight when it comes to high-end features, packing in much more than we expected for a TV of this size and budget.
What sets this apart from those from arguably more premium brands like Samsung or Sony? Well, it's no single feature but rather the sum of its parts. First and foremost is the QLED screen – a rarity among 32-inch TVs. Your movies will benefit from more vibrant colours and superior contrast. But, of course, all of that only really starts to matter with the addition of HDR (High Dynamic Range) – expanding the colour spectrum to over a billion shades. If you value the artistic vision of directors, cinematographers or editors, you'll love it.
Extras like the inclusion of Dolby Atmos obviously ticks a rather important box for us, but making the best of it is really down to connecting a compatible soundbar – like the Denon DHT-S218. Even with the added expense, this TV remains one of the most affordable ways to unlock Atmos sound and channel it through to a higher-quality speaker system. All in all, we think that the 32E5NQTUK is a stellar feature-packed choice for movie buffs, gamers and TV series bingers. Perhaps best of all, it does it at a sensible price.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos sound is rarely seen in a TV of this size
- An amazing display thanks to HDR for extra colours and QLED for vibrancy and deep blacks
- Perfect for enjoying movies and TV on a smaller screen without sacrificing image quality
Cons
- A soundbar to support the Atmos is advisable
Screen | 32 inches, QLED |
Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10 |
Connectivity | HDMI x2, USB x1, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio | 12W x2 speakers, Dolby Atmos support |
Smart features | VIDAA U5 OS, Alexa built-in |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 719 x 469 x 163 mm |
Weight | 5.5 kg |
2.
TCL 32SF540K 32-inch FHD Smart Television
Best value 32-inch smart TV

We know that most budget 32-inch TVs aren't likely to come jammed with QLED panels and AI-powered gadgetry. But, as keenly-priced options go, we think that TCL's 32SF540K 32-inch FHD Fire TV is brilliant value for money. As the operating system is Fire TV, it's packing more smart features than most, making it ideal as a smaller set for casual viewing in kitchens – or for the budget-conscious bedroom gamer.
Like most if not all viewers these days, our favourite shows and movies are streamed at Full-HD or 4K resolution. So, we're not big fans of the those cheaper 32-inch TVs fitted with a now old-fashioned Half HD panel. Thankfully, this TCL is Full-HD and comes loaded with apps. As Fire TV is part of Amazon's ecosystem, you will find prominently-placed easy access to Amazon content like Prime Video. But, we think that's a benefit to many and doesn't prevent non-Amazon subscribers from watching whatever they like.
Like others here, it features HDR10 – blowing the narrower colour palette of standard TVs out of the water. Bluetooth is onboard too, so pairing wireless headphones for quiet night time viewing is simple. The built-in Alexa voice control lets you switch channels or ramp up the volume without lifting a finger. Of course, at this price it's not all plain-sailing. We found some users report that the built-in speakers sound a bit weak and tinny – no great surprise there. Thankfully, that's nothing a decent soundbar can’t fix.
Pros
- The slim design fits anywhere and the bezel-less surround is super-modern
- HDR for more colours and a vibrant image
- Voice Remote with Alexa
Cons
- Weaker speakers – buy a soundbar
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10 |
Connectivity | HDMI x3, USB x2, Bluetooth |
Audio | 2 speakers, 8W each, Dolby Audio |
Smart features | Fire TV OS, supports Alexa |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 720 x 480 x 180 mm (with stand) |
Weight | 4.0kg (with stand) |
3.
Samsung The Frame 32-inch Full HD QLED Smart TV (2023)
Best 32-inch QLED smart TV

Not only is Samsung's The Frame TV a QLED model, it's also a dream come true for poster fans or fine art aficionados. When it's not in use, this TV transforms into a stunning digital art display. Its 'Art Mode' lets you showcase a curated selection of paintings, photos, or graphic designs – which, of course, we'd quickly load up with row after row of movie posters for that multiplex lobby look. Film geekery aside, the aim of this TV is to seamlessly blend in with your décor. The frame-like bezel adds to this illusion.
However, that frame is nothing but a gimmick without this TV's real standout feature: the QLED panel with HDR10+. Typically Samsung, it's capable of the kind of vibrant colours and deep contrast that are essential for doing justice to entertainment, movies and any artwork you show on it. As you'd expect, it's also a fully functional smart TV, stacked with streaming apps, live TV capabilities, and built-in voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Our only wish is that Samsung launched a 4K resolution version. It's the way to go for even sharper artwork and overall content. Every iteration of the 32-inch model to-date has maxed-out at Full HD, so don't hold your breath for a 4K version anytime soon. That said, The Frame is probably the best option out there for a stylish and unique TV that can double as a display for all that classic film artwork.
Pros
- Super QLED image quality
- Looks stunning on your wall as it can be put into Art Mode
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
Cons
- Not 4K, so if you want bigger and more detailed art you'll need to spend more and go larger
Screen | 32 inches, QLED |
Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10+ |
Connectivity | HDMI x2, USB x1, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio | 10W x2 speakers, Dolby Digital Plus |
Smart features | Tizen OS, Alexa & Google Assistant built-in |
Energy rating | F |
Weight | 465 x 723 x 26 mm |
Size | 6.4 kg |
Best 32-inch LED smart TV

Sony's Bravia lineup spans a vast range of sizes, from colossal 75-inch displays to this more space-friendly 32-inch model. Size aside, there aren't too many Half HD resolution sets with LED panels that we'd actually recommend. So, why is this TV on our list? After all, despite the Bravia name, you won't be getting a scaled-down version of the seriously impressive Sony BRAVIA 8 TV we tested.
However, you will get HDR support for richer colours and, of course, Sony's Bravia Engine. The latter is Sony's flagship picture processing tech which outshines many competitors in its class. If your shopping list prioritises all of that Sony know-how and build quality above higher resolution and better panel tech, this is the TV to go for.
Visuals aside, this TV is packed with extra functionality like built-in voice control, USB recording, and access to thousands of apps through the Android operating system. Some users do find the Android OS slightly sluggish compared to other smart platforms. However, for those already familiar with Android, the interface is intuitive. Plus the app library boasts over 5,000 options at last count, so lack of choice isn't something you'll need to worry about. As a compact TV from a trusted brand, the Sony Bravia KD-32W800 is a quality, if somewhat restrained, choice.
Pros
- Excellent post-processing visuals from Sony
- HDR for over a billion colours
- Excellent app access
Cons
- Thicker bezels
- Slower operating sytem compared to some others
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | 1366 x 768 (HD Ready) |
Refresh Rate | 50Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10, HLG |
Connectivity | HDMI x2, USB x2, Bluetooth |
Audio | 2 speakers, 5W each, Dolby Audio |
Smart features | Android TV, supports Google Assistant |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 735 x 495 x 188 mm (with stand) |
Weight | 4.9 kg (with stand) |
5.
Samsung LS32DM700UUXXU 32-inch 4K Ultra HD HDR10 Smart Monitor with Speakers
Best 32-inch smart TV under £300

When is a TV not a TV? When it's a 4K PC monitor with built-in speakers, smart apps and a remote. This Samsung LS32DM700UUXXU monitor is one of the few ways to buy what amounts to a 32-inch TV with 4K resolution. We want to watch films and shows at the best resolution, and this screen is our favourite for sheer image quality. If anything, it's a testament to the debate over screen size versus maximum resolution. While some think that the difference between 4K and Full-HD is negligible at this size, we disagree. Key to noticing this uptick in detail is viewing distance. Sit several feet away like you would in a living room and you may struggle to appreciate all of those extra pixels. But, sit closer and you'll see that it's a worthwhile upgrade. Especially if you're addicted to streaming your movies and shows in glorious 4K UHD while at your desk.
Thankfully, its looks don't scream 'monitor' either, and the TV likeness is aided by the fact that this has a full remote and built-in speakers. The smart operating system is Tizen, giving access to all of the streaming apps you'd expect from any TV running that smart TV OS. Throw in Bixby and Alexa and you really do have a 32-inch 4K smart TV on your hands.
Unlike a regular TV, there's no tuner and aerial input for live TV – but that's easily remedied by using any app that supports live broadcasts. We also wish that the refresh rate was higher, given the huge resolution, but that's a nice-to-have for gamers rather than a show-stopper. All in all, we think this is more of a TV than a monitor and it definitely scratches that 4K itch.
Pros
- Fantastically clear 4K resolution display – impossible to find in the 32-inch TV market
- Built-in speakers, remote, and full Tizen smart TV OS make this a true TV and monitor combo
- Bixby and Alexa voice control
Cons
- 60Hz refresh rate – gamers would benefit from a higher refresh rate in 4K
- No digital TV tuner or aerial port, so you'll need to find apps for live TV
Screen | 32 inches, VA |
Resolution | 4K UHD 2160p |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10 |
Connectivity | HDMI x2, USB-A x3, USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio | 10W |
Smart features | Tizen OS, Bixby, SmartThings Hub, Alexa, TV Plus |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 19.3 x 71.6 x 51.7 cm |
Weight | 6.5 kg |
Best 32-inch smart TV for streaming

Amazon Prime members looking for quick and easy access to their favourites are going to love this. The Amazon Fire TV comes in various sizes, but this 32-inch model – despite being another set with just Half HD resolution – prioritises Prime Video content while still delivering other apps and services. As you might expect, Amazon's Alexa voice control is also built-in.
Yes, we do wish that this TV's resolution was higher than 720p (Half HD), but as a set that's more suited to casual viewing via a massive range of streaming apps it really does excel. It includes some solid features like HDR to improve image quality – streaming sessions (with content that supports it) are going to look fantastic colour-wise. Some users have noted that the interface can feel a bit slow, but we find that to be a common criticism of any TV in this price range.
As for audio, Dolby Digital Plus provides a reasonable surround sound experience (but, being a small TV, don't expect it to rival even a budget soundbar). Those who like to stream their gaming can access various titles through the Amazon Appstore. Ultimately, this is a cost-effective, user-friendly streamer that will let you dive right back into your favourite Amazon movies, shows, and more.
Pros
- The ultra-thin profile will blend into all settings
- HDR for over a billion colours – great to see on a 32-inch model
- Virtual surround audio is simple and effective
Cons
- A slower user interface than more premium models
- Only Half HD resolution
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | HD (1366 x 768) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10 |
Connectivity | HDMI x3, USB x1, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio | 8W x2 speakers, Dolby Digital Plus |
Smart features | Fire OS, Alexa built-in |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 717 x 425 x 82 mm |
Weight | 3.9 kg |
7.
Samsung QE32Q50A 32-inch Full HD TV (2023)
Best 32-inch smart TV for gaming

We've chosen the Samsung Q50A as a standout option for gamers. It's another in our list with an excellent QLED display (a rare find at this size, and ideal for games) and it also has HDR10+. So, if your console has games that support HDR, you're going to see a realism and detail boost – largely thanks to that palette of one billion shades we've mentioned elsewhere. Make no mistake, the vibrant colours, deep contrast, and sheer clarity of a screen like this will make a massive difference to your graphics and overall immersion.
Samsung are definitely a favourite of ours when it comes to underlying tech, and its Ultra Clean View processor gives live TV an instant clean-up in real-time. Another bonus for gamers is Samsung's Motion Xcelerator technology. This smooths out gameplay by filling in missing frames. But remember: the refresh rate of this panel is a standard 60Hz, and no amount of frame rate trickery will make it a match for games that only look their best at 120Hz. It's the only real shortcoming of this set, but finding any 32-inch screen (that isn't a monitor) with a refresh rate over 60Hz is next to impossible.
Given the track record of most 32-inch sets, we're happy to say that the Samsung's audio capabilities are a true highlight, with Dolby Digital Plus and Samsung's Q-Symphony tech. The latter makes the TVs built-in speakers work alongside an external Samsung Q-Symphony soundbar. The result? A fuller, more immersive soundscape. Object Tracking Sound is a surprising bonus at this size too, making dialogue and key effects sound like they're coming from exactly the right place on screen. Lastly, with built-in Alexa voice control and major streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and more – this is a compact TV that delivers entertainment on all fronts.
Pros
- Stunning QLED panel
- Excellent Dolby sound specification
- Great range of apps supported
Cons
- Speakers could be better – invest in a soundbar
Screen | 32 inches, QLED |
Resolution | Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | Quantum HDR powered by HDR10+ |
Connectivity | HDMI x2, USB x1, Bluetooth |
Audio | 2 speakers, 10W each, Dolby Digital Plus |
Smart features | Tizen OS, supports Bixby and Alexa |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 725.2 x 426.6 x 30.5mm (H x W x D) (without stand) |
Weight | 4.1kg (without stand) |
8.
LG 32LQ63806LC 32-inch LED Full HD Smart TV
Best 32-inch smart TV under £300
We'd argue that any LG TV priced under £300 is worth looking at. This LG 32LQ63806LC is a Full HD LED model that's brimming with features. It's a 2024 model too, so you really are getting an up-to-date piece of tech. The Web OS smart platform will give you access to all of the usual apps from subscription and catch-up services such as BBC iPlayer, ITVX, Netflix, Disney+ and more.
Audio comes from LG's AI Sound feature which some users say is better than most TVs of this size. And if you're going to be doing a bit of casual gaming, there's a Game Optimiser that makes for faster response times – although this does run at a standard 60Hz refresh rate, so serious gamers will want to look for a larger set for a better gaming spec. However, we're glad to see the inclusion of HDR – a welcome addition that will make HDR-enabled movies and more really pop.
Lastly, we think it's a bit of a looker. The minimum bezel and side-facing ports make it good (if a little chunky) for wall-mounting, and this colour option will also suit kitchens and bedrooms very well.
Pros
- Full HD display with HDR for extra colour range, and LG's famously good picture processing tech
- Minimal screen bezel and colour scheme makes this a low-profile set for smaller rooms
- Web OS and plenty of handily-located ports
Cons
- Despite having a gaming mode, serious gamers will want a higher refresh rate
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | HD 1080p |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | Yes |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF, USB x2, HDMI x3 |
Audio | 8W x2 speakers, Dolby Audio |
Smart features | WebOS |
Energy rating | G |
Dimensions | <strong>1</strong>8 x 73.6 x 46.4 cm |
Weight | 4.7 kg |
9.
Toshiba 32LF2F53DB 32-inch Full HD Fire TV
Best 32-inch smart TV under £200

It's unusual for us to recommend a TV that comes in lower than £200, let alone one below the £150 mark. But the Toshiba 32LF2F53DB caught our eye – partly because of the renowned brand, but also simply because this budget buy crams in a lot of worthwhile features for the money.
First up, unlike some others in this price bracket, it's Full HD resolution and has HDR10 for extended colour range. The panel has micro-dimming zones to help with contrast and black levels, and audio comes from DTS Virtual X. Although, in our research, we found that some users highlight a lack of bass – again, nothing that can't be overcome with a decent soundbar. And let's not forget that this is also a Fire TV, which means the Amazon-centric interface is slick with plenty of streaming options, and the set also comes with Alexa built-in for handy voice control.
All said, we're impressed with this Toshiba as a 32-inch option. It has much more to offer than almost any other TV with a sub-£200 price tag.
Pros
- Full HD resolution display with HDR10 for extra colours
- Micro dimming zones will help with contrast and black levels
- Fire TV operating system and Alexa voice control gives you plenty of choice and functionality
Cons
- The sound is DTS Virtual X, but we still recommend a soundbar as the speakers can lack bass
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | Full HD 1920 x 1080p |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | HDR10+ / HDR10 / Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) |
Connectivity | HDMI 2.1 x 2 (ARC compatible x 1), USB Type-A 2.0 x 1, Composite input x 1Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,3.5 mm jack x 1 |
Audio | 8W x2 speakers, Dolby Audio, DTS Virtual:X |
Smart features | Fire TV, Alexa |
Energy rating | E |
Dimensions | 720 x 425 x 75 mm |
Weight | 3.5 kg |
10.
RCA Roku TV 32-inch Smart TV, RK32HN1
Best 32-inch smart TV with Roku

Roku is one of our favourite smart TV operating systems, making this RCA Roku TV a bit of a no-brainer for fans of a speedy, intuitive interface. RCA has crammed a surprising number of high-tech features into this model, including access to Apple TV+, Disney+, and all of the must-have streaming apps. Plus, you get welcome extras like Dolby Audio, HDR support and a three-stage noise reduction system for a clearer picture.
The 60Hz refresh rate is standard fare for TVs this size, but it's more than enough for everything from live sports to movies. There is, however, one connectivity downside: RCA neglected to add Bluetooth, which is a fairly common addition at this price point. However, there is a built-in headphone jack – so you can still plug in your favourite wired headphones for better audio when you need to avoid disturbing the household with that late night action movie. As is often the case with smaller sets, the built-in speakers tend to sound a bit tinny, making a soundbar a smart investment.
Design-wise, we're impressed with this 32-inch RCA Roku TV's almost bezel-free display. So, if you are planning on mounting it on the wall, its sleek profile makes it one of the better options out there.
Pros
- Built-in Roku means a fast and familiar operating system
- Loads of apps available
- The no-nonsense design will fit into any small room
Cons
- No Bluetooth for wireless headphones
- Tinny sound
Screen | 32 inches, LED |
Resolution | HD (1366 x 768) |
Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
HDR (extra colour range) | No |
Connectivity | HDMI x3, USB x1, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio | 8W x2 speakers, Dolby Audio |
Smart features | Roku OS, Alexa & Google Assistant compatible |
Energy rating | F |
Dimensions | 720 x 425 x 75 mm |
Weight | 3.5 kg |
Expert's choice
As a fully-featured Full HD QLED set, we think that the Hisense 32 inch Full HD QLED Smart TV 32A5NQTUK offers a fantastic array of technical features at a sensible price. The snappy and intuitive menu with easy access to all of your favourite apps seals the deal.
Although the brand is synonymous with quality by default for many, we can't ignore the brilliant Samsung Smart Monitor M7. Given that many manufacturers don't bother to fit a 4K panel into TVs of this size, this monitor is a 32-inch smart TV in all but name. After all, it does have built-in smart apps, speakers and a remote control. It's only lacking a tuner and aerial input, but we'll sacrifice access to live TV in the name of a 4K picture.
What to look for in a 32-inch TV
Although you're not likely to find cutting-edge features like 4K OLED panels, AI picture processing, Atmos sound and super-high refresh rates in a 32-inch TV, there are some gems to be found. As our recommendations show, you can always find a TV loaded with smart apps, but what other features do you really need?

The best 32-inch TV features for film fans
For those who prioritise image clarity and quality, plus impeccable colour accuracy, a QLED or OLED TV would normally be the way to go. As each pixel is self-illuminating, OLEDs offer amazing contrast levels and colour for film fans. However, 32-inch OLED TVs are unheard of due to the cost of the panels themselves. Thankfully, QLED technology has come a long way in recent years, with numerous local dimming zones in their backlights to keep blacks almost as deep and true as OLED. They tend to be more budget-friendly too, and deliver exceptionally bright images, making them a solid option for rooms with a lot of natural light.
With the addition of HDR (High Dynamic Range) for over a billion colours, you'll experience a stunning picture that will more closely match what the director had in mind. Go for the superior HDR10+ or Dolby Vision version of HDR if you can find it.
A sound choice for movies
When it comes to sound, seek out TVs that support advanced surround formats like DTS or Dolby Atmos. For an even better cinematic experience, consider upgrading your audio setup with a budget soundbar that can support those formats.
32-inch TVs for telly addicts
Love keeping up with the latest shows? You'll likely want many of the same features that appeal to movie buffs. However, there are a couple of additional factors to bear in mind.
EPGs and recording
We've mentioned app availability above, but for those who watch most of their shows via their Freeview aerial, we recommend looking closely at the Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) of the TV. If the look and feel of guides like these are a bugbear of yours, you'll want one that's quick to load, fast, responsive and easy to read. Some TVs will also let you record a program (or even a whole series) using the guide when used in conjunction with a USB stick. If you're following multiple shows on live TV, you may want a model that can do this. We recommend using an external USB drive with at least 256GB of space to ensure you never miss an episode.
Catch-up services
But its not all about having a digital aerial input. If you like to catch up on missed programmes, look for the Freeview Play app for on-demand viewing. You’ll also find popular catch-up services like BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and Channel 4.
All that said, most movie and TV fans' must-have apps are usually from paid platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Before buying, make sure your favourite shows (and their streaming apps) are supported.
32-inch TVs for gamers
Anyone gaming on their Nintendo Switch will be getting a serious upgrade when they dock it with a 32-inch TV. Whether you game on a PS5, Xbox Series X or a modern retro console like the Evercade, you'll want to put these features to the top of your gaming TV wish list:
HDR
You can read more about High Dynamic Range below. In short, if you're new to HDR content, you'll see an unparalleled colour depth and clarity for games that support all of those extra colours.
Refresh rate (Hz)
Look for a TV with a high and adaptive refresh rate. Having this ensures that, when playing a game at high and variable frame rates, the screen displays each frame smoothly. The payoff? Fluid, sharp motion without screen tearing or stuttering. For the best experience, look for a model with a minimum 120Hz refresh rate and support for variable refresh rate (VRR). This feature may be branded as G-Sync or FreeSync, depending on the manufacturer.
Imagine Monster Hunter Wilds or the Switch's Xenoblade Chronicles X on a TV with features like these. Breathtaking, even on a 32-inch screen.
Smart streaming
All of these uses aside, it's worth considering your streaming needs. All 32-inch smart TVs tend to have a similar array of popular apps available – like Disney+, YouTube, Amazon Prime, and Netflix. However, a minority of others (like Discovery+ and Peacock) may not be present. It all depends on the model you go for, so we recommend checking the specs to make sure the apps or channels you want are available.
One last thing to note are the pros and cons of simply upgrading an existing non-smart TV (or one that's become painfully slow) by plugging in a separate TV streaming device. While gadgets like Fire TV Sticks and Roku Streaming Sticks slot into a HDMI port and offer functionality and value, they do come with downsides. Firstly, if your old 32-inch TV only has one HDMI input, it'll be hogged by the stick – leaving you plugging and unplugging for things like consoles and Blu-ray players. Secondly, depending on the orientation of your TV's HDMI port, these sticks can protrude towards the wall behind, making it tricky or even impossible to add one to a wall-mounted TV (without buying a short HDMI adapter cable).
It'll fit, but will it fit nicely?
Many 32-inch TVs are impressively slim, making them ideal for both wall-mounting and stand-mounting. Yes, TVs this size take up even less space than they used to thanks to thinner bezels, and that's great news. However, don't skip measuring-up before you buy. Your TV should be positioned for comfortable viewing, with wall-mounting the most stylish and space-saving choice. But keep an eye on the height – too high, especially above a tall fireplace mantel, might look good but can result in uncomfortable viewing.

TV terminology
Here's a short glossary of TV technical terms for those new to the world of OLEDs, QLEDs, HDR and more.
4K and Ultra HD (UHD) versus Full HD
4K, also known as 4K UHD, has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. That's roughly 8.3 million of the little blighters, which is how a 4K TV delivers four times the detail of a standard Full HD display at 1920 x 1080 pixels. If you want the clearest, most detailed picture, 4K remains the best choice – but you may find your choice limited in 32-inch models.
High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Dolby Vision
High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology expands the number of colours that a standard TV produces (16.7 million) to over a billion colours. This isn't just about making images look brighter or more vibrant. Provided the content itself supports HDR, you'll be set for better, more accurate tones and shades. The net result is stunningly realistic visuals with added depth and precision.
HDR10+ takes this even further by incorporating extra metadata, allowing for more precise adjustments and an even more refined viewing experience. Dolby Vision, Dolby's take on HDR10 and HDR10+, pushes the boundaries of colour accuracy and contrast, delivering exceptional depth and lifelike realism. Widely regarded as one of the top HDR formats, Dolby Vision remains a leading choice for both film fans and premium televisions.
LED and LCD
A panel of LEDs (or Light-Emitting Diodes) are a thin and efficient light source for LED and OLED TVs. LEDs provide the backlight for an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel, which is responsible for producing the image you see. Without this illumination, the screen would appear almost completely dark. While LED TVs, including many 4K models, remain widely available, they do rely on older technology. Their affordability is a plus, but because brightness is achieved through a backlight rather than self-illuminating pixels, contrast and black levels are often substandard.
Micro LED and Mini LED
You're highly unlikely to find a 32-inch TV with either of these technologies. Unlike conventional LED TVs, Micro LED displays boast not just high resolution but also individually controllable microscopic LEDs – removing the need for a broad backlight. This design results in exceptional blacks, wide viewing angles, and brightness levels that often surpass other technologies, including OLED. However, these cutting-edge screens come at a steep price and are typically only available in larger sizes.
Mini LED TVs are the same but with larger LEDs that aren't small enough to form individual pixels. Instead, like traditional LED TVs, they serve as an advanced backlight for an LCD panel. Localised dimming in specific areas of the screen (also known as 'dimming zones') helps replicate the deep blacks seen in Micro LED and OLED displays.
OLED
OLEDs, or Organic Light-Emitting Diodes, are made from organic compounds that emit light on their own. Each one is an individual pixel, allowing for precise control over brightness and colour. Cinephiles value these for their vibrant and accurate colours, exceptional contrast, and excellent clarity. But, perhaps the aspect they're most coveted for is OLED's ability to achieve true black levels. Each pixel can be dimmed or completely switched off, resulting in shadows that are deep and rich. Cinematic experiences with lots of atmosphere like Blade Runner 2049, or games such as Silent Hill 2, reach new levels of darkness. While OLEDs don't reach the extreme brightness levels of some other panel types, they still deliver superior image quality and are a top choice for movie and TV lovers.
QLED
Quantum LED TVs (QLEDs) have come a long way since launch. Now they use their Quantum Dot-enhanced backlights and increasingly clever tech to replicate the deep blacks, striking contrast, and vibrant colours of OLED displays. They come extremely close to OLED and so represent a quality affordable alternative. You're likely to find quite a few of these in 32-inch TVs as the panels, although a bit costly, aren't as expensive as OLEDs. Lastly, QLED TVs excel at delivering superior brightness levels which is ideal for viewing in bright rooms. Viewing angles aren't quite on par with OLED, but QLEDs are comparable in most other aspects. We recommend this panel type for anyone looking for a quality 32-inch TV.
Common screen resolutions
HD (or Half HD): 1280×720
Full HD: 1920×1080
4K / 4K UHD: 3840×2160
Best 32-inch smart TVs FAQs
Is a 32-inch smart TV too small?
It depends on what you're setting out to achieve. If you've been seduced by a 65-inch TV when browsing the High Street and want that cinematic feel, a 32-inch TV – no matter how many features it has – is unlikely to deliver a worthy experience. But, if you have a small room and need something that will fit well and be highly viewable, our picks of the best 32-inch sets are more than up to the task – from movies and top-quality TV to gaming and casual viewing.
Is a 32-inch TV worth buying?
Again, this all comes down to how much you value your experience. If you have the space for larger, we'd always say bigger is better. But, if you don't have the space or wallet for that, you'd be much better off investing in the best 32-inch TV that your money can buy than miss out on quality entertainment. Either way, you'll be spending much less than you would on a larger set, and definitely at the lower end of the best TVs under £1000 bracket.
How close should you sit to a 32-inch TV?
There are conflicting schools of thought on this, but Sony's recommended distance for TV viewing is around three times the TV's vertical size for a Full HD set. For a 32-inch TV that means around 47-inches (or just under four feet). If the set is 4K resolution you have more leeway with viewing detail, allowing you to sit closer if you need to.
Do you need an aerial with a smart TV?
It depends on what you need to watch and how. If you know you access all of your movies and programmes via apps, you only need a Wi-Fi connection. But, if you want to enjoy live digital terrestrial broadcasting such as BBC, ITV and others, you'll need a Freeview aerial.
Latest updates
This article was first published in April 2025. Future relevant additions and amendments will be noted here.
Chris Duffill is a Senior Tech Writer and Reviewer. He specialises in home entertainment and audiovisual tech, including TVs, projectors, speakers, amplifiers, turntables and more.
Having worked in video production, photography and graphic design, he has decades of professional experience with various display technologies. He's owned TVs of various sizes and specs, several home cinema projectors and also set up his own surround sound systems, including Dolby Atmos. He's a lifelong TV and movie fanatic with a Masters in Screenwriting from the UEA.