Hisense 32-Inch A4 Series Smart Roku TV review with Dolby Audio and Alexa

Description

Sleek Design and Slim Bezel Appeal

The Hisense 32-Inch Class A4 Series FHD 1080p Smart Roku TV immediately catches the eye with its slim bezel design. It’s not just about aesthetics – the thinner frame means you get more screen real estate, which makes a difference in smaller spaces. I set it up in my home office, and it fit perfectly without overwhelming the room. The design feels modern and minimalist, blending well with various decors. It’s also lightweight, so mounting it on the wall or moving it around isn’t a hassle. While the build doesn’t scream luxury, it feels sturdy enough for daily use without concerns about durability.

Picture Quality That Impresses

The 1080p High-Definition LCD screen, paired with a Full Array LED backlight, delivers a bright and sharp picture quality. Colors are vivid but not overly saturated, and the contrast feels balanced for a TV in this price range. Watching my favorite shows and sports felt immersive, especially considering its size. I noticed that even darker scenes in movies had decent detail, avoiding the “washed out” look some budget TVs struggle with. While it’s not 4K – let’s be real, at this size, 1080p is more than enough to feel crisp. However, those who are used to higher resolutions might nitpick about the clarity in finer details.

Roku TV Features and Usability

Streaming with Roku TV built-in is a breeze. As someone who has tried various streaming systems, this one is intuitive and clutter-free. The interface is smooth, and everything from Netflix to Disney+ runs without hiccups. One standout feature is the automatic updates, so you don’t need to worry about manually refreshing apps or software. Endless free and live TV options through Roku are a definite bonus – I found myself exploring channels I didn’t even know existed! That said, the Roku remote is functional but feels a bit basic. The lack of a backlit design was a minor annoyance during late-night binge sessions.

Dolby Audio Enhances the Experience

The Dolby Audio system genuinely surprised me. For a TV of this size and price, I didn’t expect such clear and immersive audio. Dialogue in shows comes through crisp and distinct, which is perfect for those dramatic moments or fast-talking sitcoms. While the bass isn’t earth-shattering (it’s a small TV, after all), the overall sound balance is impressive and room-filling. I didn’t feel the need to hook up external speakers for casual viewing, though a soundbar could elevate the experience further.

Smart Controls with Google Assistant and Alexa

This TV’s compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa is a game-changer for anyone already in the smart home ecosystem. I tested it using both voice commands and the Roku mobile app, and the responsiveness was impressive. Turning the TV on and off, changing channels, and adjusting volume by voice felt seamless and futuristic. However, I did notice occasional delays when using voice commands, which might frustrate those expecting instant results. Still, the convenience of hands-free control adds significant value.

Positive Features

• Slim bezel design maximizes screen space and adds a modern touch.
• 1080p resolution with Full Array LED backlighting delivers bright and sharp visuals.
• Built-in Roku TV with a wealth of free and paid streaming options.
• Dolby Audio offers clear sound and decent surround effects.
• Compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa for smart home integration.

Areas for Improvement

• The remote lacks a backlight, making it challenging to use in the dark.
• Occasional lag with voice commands when controlling via smart assistants.
• Audio bass could be more robust for a fuller experience.

Product Alternatives

When considering alternatives, a few models stand out. The TCL 32-Inch Roku Smart TV is a direct competitor. It offers similar Roku integration and picture quality, but I found the Hisense to have slightly better sound clarity due to its Dolby Audio. On the other hand, the Samsung M4500 Series 32-Inch TV delivers vibrant colors and a sleeker interface, but it’s pricier and lacks built-in Roku, which I personally value for streaming ease. Another noteworthy mention is the Vizio D-Series, known for its affordability and robust build, though its interface isn’t as user-friendly as Roku’s.

Ultimately, the Hisense model strikes a balance between value and functionality, making it a strong contender in the budget-smart TV market.

Price Performance

For a TV in its category, the price-to-quality ratio is hard to beat. You’re getting a solid 1080p display, reliable streaming through Roku, and smart assistant integration. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it delivers where it matters most. If you’re seeking an affordable upgrade or a secondary TV for smaller spaces, this product offers great bang for the buck. Just remember to pair it with external speakers if you’re an audiophile craving deeper bass.