Why you should think twice before buying a 32 inch TV

last updated 24 May 2022

The TV sets in our home seem to be getting bigger and bigger. However, if you're looking for a more modest TV set purchasing a 32 inch TV could be a big mistake.

Consumer Champion's Which? revealed that they haven't found a single 32 inches TV that has been worthy of a Best Buy since 2014. They've tested 81 32 inch TVs in the last six years, but none of them has been up to scratch. Our own guide to the best TVs doesn't include a model that is available in 32 inches.

A large reason for this is the best quality TV's simply aren't made in the small sizes. Features such as 4K, the next step up from HD, aren't available in a 32 inch TV because you won't be able to see the extra detail.

living room with 32 inch tv shelves sofa and wooden table flower vase on table

Splashing your cash on a TV smaller than 32 inches could simply be a waste of money. Instead, you could purchase something a little bigger that offers a more comfortable viewing experience.

Which? revealed that the optimum viewing distance for a 32 inch TV is 7 feet. That is about the length of a bed, so unless you want a TV coming out the foot of the bed, it probably isn't going to cut it.

In an average living room, you will usually be 15 feet away from a TV. That makes 55 inches the optimal size for the best viewing experience.

living room with 32 inch tv sofa set with cushions books flower vase glass table

'Our advice to shoppers is to choose a larger TV that they can comfortably view, where possible,' Natalie Hitchins, Which? head of home products told The Mirror. 'For small or occasional spaces, streaming content on a laptop or tablet may just offer a better experience than a small TV.'

However, at the end of the day, it is all down to personal preference. I currently have an affordable Bush 32 inch TV in my living room. It doesn't offer a cinematic experience but is perfect for catching up on The Great British Bake Off.

Still, if you are hoping to catch Paul Hollywoods ice blue eyes in all their glory. Best to steer clear of the 32 inch TVs.

Rebecca Knight has been the Deputy Editor on the Ideal Home Website since 2022. She graduated with a Masters degree in magazine journalism from City, University of London in 2018, before starting her journalism career as a staff writer on women's weekly magazines. She fell into the world of homes and interiors after joining the Ideal Home website team in 2019 as a Digital Writer. In 2020 she moved into position of Homes News Editor working across Homes & Gardens, LivingEtc, Real Homes, Gardeningetc and Ideal Home covering everything from the latest viral cleaning hack to the next big interior trend.