Roku Smart TV – 32-Inch Select Series, 720p HD TV vs TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Fire
Updated August 2026 — Roku Smart TV – 32-Inch Select Series, 720p HD TV wins on value for money, TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Fire wins on picture quality and smart features.
The TCL 40-Inch Class S3 offers superior picture quality and modern design, making it a better choice for those who prioritize these features. However, the Roku Smart TV is more budget-friendly.
Why Roku Smart TV – 32-Inch Select Series, 720p HD TV is better
Price
Roku is $30 cheaper
User Experience
Roku has a more intuitive interface
Audio Quality
Roku is optimized for clear speech
Why TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Fire is better
Picture Quality
TCL has 1080p resolution
Design
TCL features a modern bezel-less design
Content Availability
TCL offers access to over 1 million movies and TV episodes
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Roku Smart TV – 32-Inch Select Series, 720p HD TV | TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV with Fire |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Features | Roku Voice, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa Voice Remote, Apple HomeKit |
| Streaming Channels | 500+ | 1 million+ |
| Audio Features | Clear speech optimization | Bluetooth personal audio |
| Design | Functional | Bezel-less modern |
| User Interface | Intuitive | Preset buttons for quick access |
Dimension comparison
Overview
The Roku Smart TV and the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 1080p LED Smart TV are two strong contenders in the budget-friendly smart TV market, offering distinct features for different viewing preferences. The Roku Smart TV is priced at $119.99, while the TCL model costs $149.99, making the Roku about 17% cheaper. Both TVs come equipped with smart capabilities, but their specifications and streaming experiences cater to different audiences.
Picture Quality
When it comes to picture quality, the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 stands out with its 1080p Full HD resolution, providing enhanced clarity and detail for an immersive viewing experience. In contrast, the Roku Smart TV offers a 720p HD picture, which is adequate for smaller screens but lacks the sharpness of the TCL model. For viewers who prioritize high-definition visuals, the TCL’s superior resolution makes it the better option, especially for watching movies and TV shows.
Smart Features
The Roku Smart TV features a user-friendly interface that allows for seamless streaming from over 500 TV channels, including the ability to watch free live television. It supports voice control through Roku Voice, Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. Meanwhile, the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 also excels in smart features, with Alexa voice control built into its remote and compatibility with Apple HomeKit. Both TVs facilitate streaming from popular services, but the TCL offers access to over 1 million movies and TV episodes, significantly broadening entertainment options.
Design
In terms of design, the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 boasts a modern FullView metal bezel-less design, providing an elegant look that can seamlessly integrate into any home décor. The Roku Smart TV, while functional, does not emphasize design aesthetics in the same way. For those who value a contemporary appearance, the TCL model is more appealing, making it a stylish addition to living rooms or entertainment spaces.
Audio Quality
Audio quality is another area where these two TVs differ. The Roku Smart TV is designed for clear speech and louder sound, specifically optimized to enhance dialogue clarity. This makes it a suitable choice for viewers who watch a lot of content with dialogue-heavy scenes. Conversely, the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 includes Bluetooth personal audio capabilities, allowing users to connect their Bluetooth headphones for a private listening experience. Each TV offers unique audio benefits depending on the viewer's needs.
Connectivity
Both the Roku Smart TV and the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 provide essential connectivity options, but they differ slightly in their offerings. The Roku model features Wi-Fi for streaming and Bluetooth headphone mode, making it convenient for casual viewing experiences. The TCL model, on the other hand, comes with two HDMI inputs, including one with ARC, allowing for better connectivity with gaming consoles and other devices. This makes the TCL more versatile for users who want to connect multiple devices.
User Experience
User experience is a crucial factor when choosing a smart TV, and both models deliver in their ways. The Roku Smart TV is known for its intuitive interface, making it easy for users to navigate popular apps and organize their home screen. The TCL 40-Inch Class S3, with its Alexa voice remote, allows for quick access to favorite apps through preset buttons, enhancing overall usability. For those who value a straightforward user experience, the Roku model may have a slight edge, but the TCL’s voice control features provide added convenience.
Price Comparison
The price difference between the Roku Smart TV at $119.99 and the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 at $149.99 is significant, with the Roku being about $30 cheaper. This price point makes the Roku a more appealing option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the additional features and higher resolution of the TCL may justify the extra cost for some buyers. Ultimately, which TV provides better value depends on the consumer's specific needs and preferences.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Roku Smart TV and the TCL 40-Inch Class S3 depends on your priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a focus on user-friendly streaming and clear audio, the Roku Smart TV is the better choice. However, if you prioritize picture quality, extensive content availability, and a stylish design, the TCL model may be worth the extra investment. Assess your viewing habits and preferences to determine which TV aligns best with your entertainment needs.