I compared two 32-inch TVs side by side, and you can find a good deal if you know where to look.
There are significant differences even when considering products with the same price.
Searching for a new TV can be an intimidating process, especially with the vast number of similar options in terms of price and specifications. When evaluating the best screens available, generally, the higher the price, the more research is required. For example, when considering two of the best OLED models, like the LG G4 and the Samsung S95D, both priced over $2,000/£2,000 for the 65-inch model, it’s natural to take your time before deciding.
However, when looking for more affordable TVs, especially smaller ones, many people tend to choose what fits their budget and what looks best on the specifications. Often, this does not result in a good choice. Although 32-inch TVs may seem small, they remain a valid option for environments like bedrooms or kitchens.
Throughout my testing of various 32-inch models, I have realized that, despite having similar prices—a TV of this size can cost between $130/£130 and $500/£400—the differences in quality are notable. Recently, I compared two models: the TCL S5400 and the Toshiba LF2F53DB, which had just a £10 margin between them, as the TCL is priced at £139 and the Toshiba at £149. I expected there would not be much difference, but I was surprised.
It’s important to note that these models are not available outside the UK; for readers in the United States, the TCL S3 and the Toshiba V35 are equivalent options, although other brands like Vizio, Samsung, and LG also offer 32-inch TVs. I especially recommend the LG 32LQ6300 and the Samsung Q60D, both excellent options in the UK and US markets.
In the comparison, the Toshiba LF2F53DB showed better color management and detail in Movie Mode, while the TCL S5400 excelled in Standard Mode, offering a more vibrant picture. I used an HDMI splitter to display the same image on both TVs from various Blu-ray discs played through a Panasonic DP-UB820.
I started the test with "La La Land," an ideal movie for assessing color, movement, and contrast. In Movie Mode, the Toshiba provided brighter, more natural colors, particularly noticeable in Mia’s yellow dress during one of the key scenes. When switching to Standard Mode, the Toshiba showed a more aggressive and darker image, while the TCL delivered vibrant, bright colors.
Moving on to a darker film, "The Batman," which is more challenging for image quality, both TVs produced close results. Although the Toshiba displayed better detail in the shadows and more natural lighting, the TCL also had good black levels and contrast. While exploring the settings, I discovered that the TCL had a "Dynamic Contrast" option that significantly improved image depth, especially in dimmer scenes.
Moreover, the TCL had processing options that, while some were less successful, such as "Dynamic Color," offered a range of vibrant images, whereas the sound in both models was limited, although the TCL provided better performance in its sound mode.
Finally, although both TVs belong to the budget range of 32 inches and have limitations, the comparison reveals that not all cheap models are the same. The quality of what you get depends on how the money is spent, showing that even in the low-cost market, there are TVs that can deliver good performance if their features are properly explored.
