Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player Review: The Ultimate All-in-One for Compact Spaces?

In our main living room, we have the big screen, the soundbar, the labyrinth of HDMI cables snaking behind the media unit connecting various consoles and streaming boxes. It’s a setup I love, but it’s also a complex beast. Recently, I wanted to find a simpler solution for our guest bedroom, a space that doubles as a small home office. The goal was clear: I needed a television that could handle modern streaming, play our old, beloved DVD collection, and not require a PhD in cable management to set up. The thought of adding a separate DVD player, another remote, and more cables to an already compact room was a non-starter. This is a common dilemma in the age of streaming – how do we bridge the gap between our physical media libraries and the endless digital content available today, especially in secondary spaces where simplicity is king? The search was on for a single device that could do it all without fuss, a true plug-and-play entertainment hub.

What to Consider Before Buying a Compact Smart TV

A TV, particularly a smaller, multi-function model, is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for consolidating your entertainment needs and reclaiming space. In bedrooms, kitchens, caravans, or student accommodation, every square inch counts. The primary benefit of a device like the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player is its incredible efficiency. It eliminates the need for a separate media player, reducing clutter, freeing up plug sockets, and simplifying the user experience down to a single remote control. This integration is crucial for anyone who values both modern connectivity with services like Netflix and the nostalgic or practical value of a physical media collection, be it classic films on DVD or music on CDs. It solves the problem of digital-vs-physical by simply embracing both.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenge of limited space but who refuses to compromise on functionality. This includes students in dorms, families needing a secondary TV for a playroom, or retirees in a smaller home who have an extensive DVD library they aren’t ready to part with. It’s for the pragmatist who wants Freeview, catch-up TV, streaming, and a DVD player in one neat package. However, it might not be suitable for those who are building a dedicated home cinema. If your priority is the absolute pinnacle of visual fidelity, with 4K or 8K resolution on a large screen and the most expansive smart platform with thousands of apps, you would likely find a 32-inch FHD model too limiting. For those users, a larger, dedicated 4K QLED or OLED TV paired with a separate 4K Blu-ray player would be a more appropriate, albeit more complex and expensive, choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: At 32 inches, this screen size is perfect for viewing distances of around 4-6 feet. Before purchasing, measure the intended space, whether it’s a countertop, a small media stand, or a wall mount. Remember to account for ventilation around the unit, especially since the integrated DVD player will generate some heat during operation.
• Performance & Resolution: This is a Full HD (1920x1080p) television. For a 32-inch screen, FHD provides a sharp, clear picture where individual pixels are not easily discernible. While 4K is the standard for larger screens, its benefits diminish significantly at this compact size, making FHD a very practical and cost-effective choice. The inclusion of HDR10 is a key performance feature, enhancing contrast and colour for a more dynamic picture.
• Connectivity & Smart Features: The Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player runs on a Linux-based operating system. This provides essential apps like Netflix and Freeview Play, which is fantastic for UK users wanting live and catch-up TV. However, be aware that the app library on a proprietary Linux OS is typically less extensive than on platforms like Google TV, Roku, or Fire TV. Check that all your must-have streaming services are supported.
• Integrated Media Player: The built-in DVD/CD player is the star feature. Consider the condition of your physical media. The convenience is undeniable, but it’s important to remember this is a standard DVD player, not an upscaling Blu-ray player. It’s designed for convenience and backward compatibility, not for high-definition physical media.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player stands out in several areas, particularly for its unique combination of features. You can explore its detailed specifications and current availability here.

While the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player is an excellent choice for its niche, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at the market, especially if you’re considering a premium panel for your main living space, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing an Unassuming Powerhouse

Upon arrival, the box for the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player was refreshingly manageable. Weighing just over 6 kg, it was easy for one person to handle. Inside, the TV was securely packed with standard polystyrene supports. The setup process was exactly what you hope for from a device like this: effortless. Attaching the two simple plastic feet took less than a minute with a standard screwdriver, and once powered on, the initial setup wizard was straightforward. It guided us through connecting to Wi-Fi, scanning for Freeview channels, and logging into our Netflix account.

The first thing you notice is its practicality. The build is entirely plastic, which is expected at this price point, but it feels sturdy enough. The bezels are reasonably slim for a budget model, ensuring the focus remains on the screen. The most unique design element is, of course, the side-loading DVD slot on the right-hand side, which is neatly integrated without adding significant bulk. It immediately feels like a purpose-built device, not just a TV with a player tacked on. Compared to the often-over-engineered premium models, the Finlux’s charm lies in its honest, function-first design.

A Deep Dive into the Finlux 32MF25D’s Performance

A TV with a built-in DVD player can sometimes feel like a novelty, a throwback to a bygone era. However, after spending considerable time testing the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player, we can confidently say this is a thoughtfully executed, modern interpretation of a classic concept. It’s not just about playing old discs; it’s about providing a comprehensive, hassle-free entertainment experience for a specific type of user, and it succeeds admirably on several fronts.

The Entertainment Hub: Seamless DVD and Smart TV Integration

The crown jewel of this television is undoubtedly its integrated DVD player. For the millions of people who still own and love their collections of films, TV box sets, and concert DVDs, this feature is a game-changer. We tested it with a variety of discs, from pristine new DVDs to some well-loved, slightly scratched classics from the early 2000s. The side-loading mechanism accepted each disc smoothly and quietly. Playback initiated automatically, and the TV’s remote has all the necessary transport controls (play, pause, stop, skip) intuitively laid out.

What truly impressed us was the seamlessness of the experience. There’s no fumbling for a different remote or switching HDMI inputs. You simply insert a disc, and it plays. This is the kind of simplicity that is perfect for a child’s room, an elderly relative, or just anyone who is tired of juggling multiple devices. The picture quality from the DVD source was clean and stable, with the TV doing a respectable job of handling the standard-definition content on its Full HD panel. As one user aptly put it, it’s a “great tv especially for the price with dvd player built in,” and we wholeheartedly agree. The value here isn’t just in the hardware, but in the streamlined convenience it offers.

On the smart side, the Linux-based OS is functional and responsive. Booting up the TV and launching Netflix was quick. The interface is clean and easy to navigate, though it lacks the slick animations and vast app store of a Google TV or Roku device. The inclusion of Freeview Play is a massive win for UK users. It integrates live TV with catch-up services from BBC iPlayer, ITVX, All 4, and My5 directly into the electronic programme guide. This means you can scroll back in time through the guide and select a show you missed, launching it directly in the relevant app. It’s an elegant and powerful feature that makes this TV a fantastic replacement for an old set-top box.

Visual Performance: Is Full HD with HDR10 Enough in 2025?

In a market saturated with 4K, choosing a Full HD (1080p) TV might seem like a step backward, but context is everything. On a 32-inch screen, the pixel density of an FHD resolution is more than sufficient to deliver a sharp, detailed image from a normal viewing distance. We found text to be crisp and fine details in nature documentaries to be well-defined. Pushing your nose right up to the screen will reveal pixels, but in any practical viewing scenario, the picture is perfectly clear. One user expressed confusion about whether their model was 4K, which highlights an important point: for this screen size, the visual difference between FHD and 4K is minimal. The Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player makes the smart choice to invest in other features rather than a higher resolution that would offer diminishing returns.

Where this TV’s panel really shines for its category is the inclusion of HDR10. High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology is all about improving contrast and colour accuracy. When viewing HDR-compatible content on Netflix, we noticed a tangible difference. Bright highlights, like the glint of sunlight on water or the glow of neon signs, had more punch without washing out the rest of the image. The colour palette felt richer and more nuanced compared to standard dynamic range content. While it won’t compete with the deep blacks and dazzling brightness of a high-end OLED or QLED panel, the HDR10 support elevates the viewing experience significantly beyond that of a basic budget TV, making movies and modern TV shows feel more cinematic and immersive.

A Surprising Audio Experience: Dolby and DTS Decoded

Historically, the built-in speakers on smaller, budget-friendly televisions have been their weakest link, often producing tinny, lifeless sound. This is an area where the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player genuinely surprised us. The spec sheet lists a formidable array of audio technologies: Dolby Audio, DTS Virtual:X, and DTS-HD. These aren’t just logos on the box; they translate into a remarkably capable audio performance.

Dolby Audio processing ensures that dialogue is consistently clear and easy to understand, even during action-packed scenes with loud background scores. This is crucial for casual viewing where you don’t want to be constantly adjusting the volume. The real star, however, is DTS Virtual:X. This technology is a psychoacoustic processing wizard, designed to create the illusion of a surround sound setup using only the TV’s two built-in speakers. While watching a blockbuster film on DVD, we were impressed by the sense of spaciousness it created. The soundstage felt wider and taller than the physical dimensions of the TV, with sound effects appearing to come from beyond the screen itself. It doesn’t replace a true multi-speaker surround system, but it provides a far more engaging and cinematic experience than standard stereo. For a bedroom or secondary room where a soundbar would be overkill, this integrated audio solution is a massive benefit. If you decide this TV’s unique feature set is right for your needs, you can find the best offer on it right here.

What Other Users Are Saying

Our positive experience with the core functionality of the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player is echoed by many users. The most common praise centers on its excellent value, with one buyer stating it’s a “great tv especially for the price with dvd player built in great quality”. This sentiment captures the essence of the product’s appeal: it delivers a hard-to-find combination of features without breaking the bank.

However, it’s crucial to present a balanced picture, and some user feedback raises valid concerns. The most significant issue appears to be related to shipping and handling. One unfortunate customer reported their “Tv came completely broken, screen cracked fully and box damaged.” Another mentioned a bizarre issue where the “Tv been smoke near fire,” which could indicate a severe electrical fault in a damaged unit. While our review unit arrived in perfect condition, these reports suggest that quality control or courier handling can be inconsistent. We strongly advise buyers to inspect the product thoroughly upon delivery and test it immediately to ensure it’s fully functional, making use of the return policy if any issues are found.

How Does the Finlux 32MF25D Compare to the Alternatives?

The Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player occupies a unique niche. To understand its place in the market, it’s helpful to compare it against other popular models that buyers might be considering, even if they offer different feature sets.

1. CHiQ U43QM9K 43 inch 4K QLED Roku TV

The CHiQ U43QM9K is a compelling alternative for those who can sacrifice the built-in DVD player for a significant upgrade in picture quality and smart functionality. At 43 inches with a 4K QLED panel, it offers a sharper, more vibrant picture that’s better suited for a primary viewing room. Its biggest advantage is the Roku TV operating system, which is widely regarded as one of the best, offering a massive app selection and an incredibly user-friendly interface. If your media is entirely digital and you want a superior smart experience in a slightly larger format, the CHiQ is an excellent choice.

2. TCL 75P7K-UK 75″ QLED 4K Google TV

The TCL 75P7K-UK represents a completely different class of television. This is a massive 75-inch QLED TV designed to be the centerpiece of a home cinema. It boasts superior technology across the board, including Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos for a premium audiovisual experience, the powerful Google TV platform, and a 120Hz Game Accelerator for next-gen gaming. This isn’t a direct competitor to the Finlux; rather, it’s what you buy when your priorities are maximum screen size and cutting-edge performance for a main living area. It’s an excellent choice for cinephiles and serious gamers with a larger budget and space.

3. Hisense 65 Inch 144Hz QLED Gaming TV 65E7KQTUK PRO

The Hisense 65E7KQTUK PRO is purpose-built for gamers. Its key features—a 144Hz refresh rate, HDMI 2.1, and Freesync Premium—are all geared towards providing the smoothest, most responsive experience with modern gaming consoles and PCs. While it’s also a fantastic 4K QLED TV for watching movies, its primary appeal is to the gaming community. If you’re choosing a TV for a gaming den and a high refresh rate is your top priority, the Hisense is one of the best options available. It stands in stark contrast to the Finlux, which prioritizes media versatility and convenience over high-performance gaming features.

Our Final Verdict: Is the Finlux 32MF25D Worth Buying?

After extensive testing, we can confidently recommend the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player, but with a clear understanding of who it’s for. This is not a TV meant to compete with the 65-inch 4K behemoths in the living room. Instead, it is a master of its specific domain: the compact, all-in-one entertainment solution. It is the perfect television for a bedroom, a kitchen, a student’s first flat, or for anyone who wants to enjoy their cherished DVD collection without the hassle of extra boxes and cables.

Its combination of a solid Full HD picture enhanced with HDR10, surprisingly robust audio with DTS Virtual:X, and the seamless integration of a DVD player and Freeview Play makes it a standout product. While the Linux-based OS is more limited than its rivals and there are legitimate concerns about shipping and quality control that buyers should be mindful of, the overall value and convenience are undeniable. It solves a real-world problem with an elegant and affordable solution.

If you’ve decided the Finlux 32MF25D 32 inch FHD Smart TV with DVD Player is the right fit for your space and needs, you can check its current price and purchase it here.