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Editor's note: November 2022
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Our pick of the best 32-inch TVs is Samsung's The Frame, which is as beautiful to look at when it's off as when it's on. That's because it's one of Samsung's Art Mode TVs, which means it becomes a digital picture frame when you're not watching anything. At this size its QLED Full HD display is crystal clear and superbly sharp, and it has HDR for spectacular picture quality.
What's particularly impressive about this TV is that the Art Mode doesn't feel like a gimmick: the design here is very different and more thoughtful than other TVs, and it'll make you smile every time you see it.
It's also very affordable, and we know how important that is right now. That's why we've made sure we've included some of the cheaper options in our guide: we want to help you find the best possible TV for the best possible price. On that note, the Black Friday sales that are happening now will see steep discounts on many smaller-screen TVs, so this is a great time to be shopping for a 32-inch set.
Matt Bolton, Senior Editor, TV & Audio
The best 32-inch TVs are smarter than you think. In fact, many of the best 32-inch TVs are packed with a stack of smart features, useful tech, and deliver strong picture performance.
Not everyone wants a Godzilla-sized screen and the idea that a 55-inch TV is now considered a standard size understandably doesn’t appeal to everyone. If you just don’t want an enormous screen or want something a little smaller for a bedroom or study, then the best 32-inch TVs have exactly what you’re looking for.
There’s also the fact that this size of screen is much easier on your wallet than the sprawling screen real estate of other smart TVs. At a time when we’re watching our costs, it’s important to make sure we’re not spending more than we actually need to and 32-inch displays are a great way to do that. Plus, if you’re shopping now, it’s the best time to bag yourself some Black Friday deals. Bookmark our Black Friday TV deals page to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the best special offers on the best TVs.
It’s important to note too that there is a big difference between the best 32-inch TVs and the best 4K TVs and that’s the resolution. These smaller TVs have an HD resolution or 1080p while 4K is 2160p and that’s because at 32-inches you just won’t notice the difference. You’ll have to step up to the best 40-inch TVs for 4K that you can actually appreciate. Some 32-inch TVs have HDR though which you’ll also find on bigger screens so you don’t need to miss out on dynamic colours.
We know exactly what to look for when it comes to the best smaller screens and with the below choices, we’ve tested a lot of the bigger screens with the same tech. Another recommendation is to invest in one of the best soundbars to truly bring things to life as smaller speakers can’t always deliver those Hollywood booms. The Sonos Ray is a particularly good affordable option that looks and sounds great. Here then are the best 32-inch TVs you can buy right now.
Best 32-inch TV 2022: the list
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Our picks of the small TVs
(Image credit: Samsung)
The best 32-inch TV overall
Specifications
Screen size: 32 inches
Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
Panel type: QLED
Smart TV: Tizen
HDR: HDR10, HLG, HDR10+
Reasons to buy
+
Beautifully made with customizable bezels
+Great QLED image quality
Reasons to avoid
-
Expensive compared to rivals
Proving that small TVs can still be stylish, our top pick for the best 32-inch smart TV is the 2021 version of Samsung’s The Frame TV range. It has a customizable frame that makes it ideal for wall hanging, and it has a special Art Mode, where it blends into your home by displaying works of art when not in use for TV and movies.
There have been previous versions of the Samsung The Frame TV, but this latest 2021 version feels like an upgrade in the picture department. In larger sizes, its QLED screen is 4K resolution, but the 32-inch model is Full HD with HDR. Thanks to the QLED, you can expect wonderfully rich colors from The Frame TV, with Samsung making use of a Dual LED backlight system, bringing together two color temperatures to make sure contrast is even and rich.
During our testing, we found this TV remarkably easy to set up. This was thanks to the inclusion of Samsung’s fantastic One Connect box. This breakaway box connects to the screen with a single clear cable, and houses all of the connections you’ll need for external devices – but can hide them away somewhere out of sight.
Read our full Samsung The Frame TV (2021) review
(Image credit: Vizio)
2. Vizio D32h-D1 (US)
The best cheap 32-inch TV for US buyers
Specifications
Screen size: 32 inches
Resolution: HD (720p)
Panel type: LED LCD
Smart TV: SmartCast
HDR: No
Reasons to buy
+
Full array backlighting
+Reasons to avoid
-
Remote is annoying to use
-Sound quality isn't top class
VIZIO pretty much rules the roost when it comes to great-value TVs in the United States, with the Vizio D-Series emerging as one of the best small TVs out there right now.
While the name might not exactly jump out at you, Vizio's small screen hits dead center for balancing features and price. You don't get a 1080p Full HD screen, but you get a full array LED backlight, which means a brighter image that's easier to see during the day. You also get smart TV features full of the most popular streaming services (including Netflix, YouTube and Hulu) on the SmartCast platform, which is also used on Vizio's high-end sets.
You're getting a basic pair of 5W speakers built-in, so it might be worth plugging in some external audio hardware, but you're getting a good feature list for such a small TV and small price – including two HDMI ports, one USB port, and HDMI ARC support for a soundbar.
This is an untested model, but if you're looking for something smart, small and affordable at a 32-inch size, VIZIO's small screen offers a lot for the price.
(Image credit: LG)
3. LG 32LQ63006
Smart features, HDR and Full HD make this a compelling combination
Specifications
Screen size: 32 inches
Resolution: HD (720p)
Panel type: LED LCD
Smart TV: webOS
HDR: HDR, HDR10 Pro, HLG
Reasons to buy
+
Excellent HDR including HDR10 Pro
+We love webOS
+Google, Alexa, AirPlay and HomeKit compatible
Reasons to avoid
-
Ports are HDMI 1.4
We don't have a full review of this new LG Smart TV just yet, but from what we've seen so far of its Full HD resolution with impressive HDR it's a typically solid LG with one of the best Smart TV interfaces around. The Alpha 5 Gen 5 processor does a good job of handling motion and skin tones without making things look overly processed, there's excellent smart assistant support, and the Game Optimiser automatically adjusts the picture settings for the best gaming experience. There's built-in Freesat HD as well as Freeview Play for catching up on the week's TV, and while LG's AI sound isn't going to give dedicated Dolby Atmos soundbars sleepless nights it does a decent job of expanding the audio in movies and games.
But it's the HDR that's the big selling point here: it's one of the first things many manufacturers leave off the spec sheet when they're making more affordable TVs, but even at 32 inches / full HD resolution it makes a huge difference to how movies in particular look. This LG is noticeably sharper and more intense than most HD TVs.
(Image credit: Toshiba)
The best cheap 32-inch TV for UK buyers
Specifications
Screen size: 32 inches
Resolution: HD (720p)
Panel technology: LED LCD
Smart TV: Toshiba Smart Portal
HDR: HDR10, HLG
Reasons to buy
+
Surprisingly good images
+Built-in Alexa support
Reasons to avoid
-
Not Full HD
-Alexa’s voice is a bit hoarse
The Toshiba WK3C Alexa TV combines straightforward TV viewing and voice assistant functionality in one very affordable package, making it one of the best 32-inch TVs out there.
The built-in (and hands-free) Alexa support covers what you’d get from one of the best smart speakers or one of the best smart TVs. During our testing, we had no trouble using the Amazon voice assistant to summon apps, look for content, or power the television on and off – though it’s an always-on affair, without the easy mute functions of an Amazon Echo.
The picture is surprisingly good, too, given the price and limitations of this HD resolution set. The processor handles HD sources, or those downscaled from 4K, very well. There’s a trace of motion judder that occurs across moving backgrounds, pictures far better in the foreground in general, but it’s a small issue that’s not overly noticeable on such a small TV. Freeview Play support is a great addition for UK viewers too.
All in all, the Toshiba WK3C is something of a steal for those who don’t need a higher-resolution screen. Just keep in mind that you're only getting HD (720p) resolution on both the 24-inch and 32-inch sizing options.
Read our full Toshiba WK3C Alexa TV review
(Image credit: TCL)
5. TCL 3-Series Roku TV (US)
The best 32-inch TV for smart TV features
Specifications
Screen size: 32-inch
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Panel type: LED
Smart TV: Roku TV
HDR: No
Reasons to buy
+
3 X HDMI ports
+Roku platform built-in
Reasons to avoid
-
Dim output compared to rivals
-No HDR on offer
The TCL 3-Series isn't the most technically impressive model in our best TCL TVs guide, but it does offer a lot for the price. At a 32-inch size, this small TV packs in Full HD resolution, direct full-array dimming (no edge lighting then) and even the excellent Roku operating system found on a host of other TCL TVs.
Roku is the saving grace of this cheap TV, adding a sleek and well-organized smart platform with substantial app support: Netflix, Disney Plus, Apple TV Plus, Hulu, and more. Three HDMI ports give you a lot of connectivity options too, while the 60Hz panel doesn't hurt either.
TCL TVs have a tendency towards quite aggressive overprocessing and high contrast images, which will only be more prominent on its cheaper screens – but for an affordable model that won't be a nightmare to navigate, the 3 Series is a good bet for one of the best 32-inch TVs.
And while we haven't reviewed this model ourselves, we've seen enough TCL TVs to get a good sense of what's on offer.
(Image credit: Cello)
The best cheap 32-inch TV with 1080p resolution
Specifications
Screen size: 32 inches
Resolution: Full HD (1080p)
Panel type: LED LCD
Smart TV: Android TV
HDR: No
Reasons to buy
+
Decent picture compared to rivals
+Android TV built-in
Reasons to avoid
-
Limited viewing angles
-Feeble sound
Cello might be a humble British TV brand, but it knows how to cater to those on a tight budget and those in need of a smaller-than-standard screen. The Cello Smart Android TV starts at just £179 for a 24-inch size, and comes in at £199 for a 32-inch TV size.
For that price you're getting Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, and surprisingly comprehensive smart TV features. The Cello Netgem smart TV that used to be in this guide made do with a very basic operating system – without even Netflix support – and the move to Android for the latest TVs from this range can only be an improvement.
Sure, there are better interfaces than Android for higher-end sets, but it's highly unusual at this price, packing in Chromecast, Google Assistant support, and the best streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Rakuten. You even have Freeview Play – for the UK's terrestrial broadcaster catch-up services.
Picture performance is decent for the price, too, with consistently lit pictures and generally smooth motion from HD/SDR sources.
Read our full Cello Smart Android TV review
Best 32-inch smart TV FAQ
(Image credit: Freeview)
What are the perks of a small 32-inch smart TV?
Size isn't everything, as the best 32-inch TVs can attest to. Many of these smaller screens offer much sharper 720p or 1080p picture quality thanks to their compact display. This means there's much less risk of the displayed image appearing blurry as a result of poor upscaling on a larger 4K-capable TV. Some even offer HDR, injecting that smaller, sharper screen with a burst of color.
The smaller size of a 32-inch TV also means that they're offered a good degree more in the way of portability. Need to move the TV to a different room or house? It's far more manageable with a smaller 32-inch TV than with a 4K giant.
How much does a 32-inch smart TV cost?
Prices vary between brands, but even the best 32-inch TVs are cheaper than even the most basic, entry-level 4K tellies. Prices can also vary depending on what features you're looking for.
UK buyers on a budget might look for the Cello Smart Android TV, which costs £199 for a 'gets-the-job-done' level experience. For something a tad more premium, the HDR-capable Sony KDL32WE613 will cost you around £259 for the 32-inch model.
In the US, the Vizio D-Series' 32-inch model, which is our top choice at the moment, is somewhat equivalent to the Cello Smart Android TV, costing just $179 for a basic, but functional experience. The TCL 3-Series is similarly affordable at $219 but with a few quality features like full 1080p HD, 3 HDMI ports and loads of streaming apps built in.
What to look for in a 32-inch smart TV
Shopping for a new TV can be a hassle. Especially as there are so many TV tech terms to learn and a lot of incredibly confusing naming conventions.
But, don't worry, the experts here at TechRadar are veterans at compiling lists that help you find out what features to check for when you're looking for the best 32-inch TV for you.
Ports and inputs
Another thing to consider before you decide which 32-inch TV you want, is whether or not it has all the ports you need. This is incredibly important, but often the last thing you might think about when you're agonizing over which display to buy.
Devices like the Nintendo Switch and DVD/Blu-ray players will need HDMI inputs; the Nintendo Wii or other legacy game consoles will need a component or even composite video input; PCs, if they don’t use HDMI, will likely use a DVI or VGA input; and Sky or cable set top boxes will need an additional HDMI.
If you're hoping to use a next-gen console on your new smaller TV, like the PS5 or Xbox Series X, these both need HDMI 2.1 ports to take advantage of their upgraded performance. But they will work with TVs with older ports, too, definitely check compatibility before you buy one.
When you have a lot of different devices to connect, it will really make your life easier getting a 32-inch TV that has enough ports to support everything you want to do with it.
The right kind of panel
There are essentially two types of LCD panel technology out there for 32-inch TVs: IPS and VA. IPS panels offer slightly wider viewing angles, while VA panels support much better contrast.
With big screen 'main' TVs likely to be used for watching films, sometimes with the lights dimmed, the lack of contrast with IPS screens can become a big issue, causing dark scenes to look washed out. So if you're looking for a 32-inch TV to go into a relatively dark environment, a VA panel is a must.
IPS panel contrast issues are less problematic in bright rooms such as conservatories and kitchens, though, and the (slight) IPS viewing angle advantage can also be handy in such large environments where viewers may be using the TV while walking around the room.
Sound quality
Far too many 32-inch TVs treat sound as an afterthought, even though it's a key part of any viewing experience. It can be tricky to judge a TV's likely audio performance, though, without hearing it for yourself.
All you can do is look for rated speaker output specifications (even though these are notoriously unreliable) and clues in a TV's design: forward firing speakers, built-in bass woofers, enough space on the rear to allow air to move around, and so on. In our pick of the best 32-inch TVs for the UK above, the Sharp 1T is a solid option for sound thanks to a built-in system from Harmon/Kardon.
Small TV alternatives
(Image credit: Toshiba)
Best small TV alternatives: what about a smart display?
It's worth considering whether other, smaller displays might fulfil your needs as well. Once your screen gets smaller than 32 inches, you're moving into monitor or even smart display territory.
A monitor might be a better idea if you want to double up your TV with a computer screen – and you'll often get better specs and higher refresh rates thrown in, compared to the same size for televisions. (Check out our guide to the best monitors for more.)
Smart displays, too, are effectively small screens that can be easily placed anywhere around the house, and tend to come with basic app support, such as YouTube. Amazon's Echo Show range (Echo Show 10, Echo Show 5) pack in Amazon Prime Video, while the Google Nest Hub Max boasts Netflix support – making a little TV binge while you're cooking pretty straightforward.
Original reporting in this article was by John Archer.
Matt is TechRadar's Managing Editor for Entertainment, meaning he's in charge of persuading our team of writers and reviews to watch the latest TVs and movies on gorgeous TVs and listen to fantastic speakers and headphones. It's a tough task, as you can imagine. Matt has over a decade of experience in tech publishing, and previously ran the TV & audio coverage for our colleagues at T3.com, and before that he edited T3 magazine. During his career, he's also contributed to places as varied as Creative Bloq, PC Gamer, PetsRadar, MacLife, and Edge. TV and movie nerdism is his speciality, and he goes to the cinema three times a week. He's always happy to explain the virtues of Dolby Vision over a drink, but he might need to use props, like he's explaining the offside rule.