VIZIO 40-inch Smart TV Review Full HD 1080p with DTS Virtual X

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 40-inch Full HD 1080p Smart TV (VFD40M-08) strikes a balance between sleek aesthetics and practicality. With its ThinFrame design, this TV fits seamlessly into any living room, bedroom, or even a cozy office space. The 3-sided bezel-less design adds a modern touch, making the screen feel larger than its 40 inches. I loved how lightweight it is, weighing just 18.9 pounds, which means mounting it on the wall or shifting it around is a breeze. The matte black finish complements most interiors, but fingerprints and smudges can sometimes be a tiny annoyance when handling it. Overall, the build quality feels solid without being overly bulky.

Picture and Display Performance

The Full HD 1080p resolution on this TV is truly impressive for its price range. The Full Array LED Backlight provides even brightness across the screen, delivering colors that feel vivid and lifelike. Watching nature documentaries was a delight because the Active Pixel Tuning brought out every shade and detail with precision. The inclusion of HDR10 support is a game-changer for gamers like me. It enhances dynamic range and ensures clarity in both dark and bright scenes. Whether I was streaming movies or connecting my console, the visuals remained consistently sharp and immersive. However, if you’re coming from a 4K TV, you might feel the slight limitation in resolution, though it’s still a noticeable step up from standard HD.

Audio and Sound Features

Sound quality can often be overlooked in TVs, but the DTS Virtual: X technology on this model really stands out. It creates a virtual surround sound experience, giving depth and dimension to audio. Watching action-packed movies or live concerts felt surprisingly cinematic. One of my favorite features has to be the Bluetooth headphone capability, allowing me to pair my wireless headphones for late-night binge-watching without disturbing anyone else. That said, the built-in speakers, while decent, lack the booming bass some users might crave. Pairing it with a soundbar might be a good idea for those who want a more robust audio output.

Smart TV Features and VIZIO OS

Navigating through the built-in VIZIO OS was straightforward and intuitive. Setting up my VIZIO Account was quick and unlocked access to a host of apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. What I really appreciated was the WatchFree+ app, which offers hundreds of free channels and thousands of on-demand titles. The customizable home screen was a nice touch, allowing me to arrange apps based on my preferences. However, the downside is that you can’t skip creating an account if you want to access Smart TV features, which might not sit well with everyone. Also, while the OS is snappy, occasional lags were noticeable when switching between heavy apps.

Gaming Features and Connectivity

The TV’s Auto Low Latency Mode activates automatically when a gaming console or PC is connected, reducing input lag. As someone who spends hours playing fast-paced games, this feature significantly improved my experience. The HDMI ports with HDR10 support ensured the graphics from my console looked stunning. Connectivity options are diverse, with multiple HDMI and USB ports for external devices and accessories. The Bluetooth feature was handy for pairing not just headphones but also speakers and other devices. However, it lacks built-in support for certain advanced gaming technologies like variable refresh rate, which hardcore gamers might miss.

Positives

• Full HD resolution with Active Pixel Tuning delivers crisp, vibrant visuals.
• DTS Virtual: X creates an immersive sound experience.
• Bluetooth headphone capability is perfect for private viewing.
• VIZIO OS provides access to a wide range of apps and free channels.
• Auto Low Latency Mode enhances gaming performance.

Areas for Improvement

• Requires a VIZIO Account for Smart TV functionality, which feels restrictive.
• Built-in speakers lack deep bass and might benefit from external audio support.
• Occasional lag in the OS when multitasking or switching between apps.

Product Comparisons

In comparison to other 40-inch Smart TVs, like the TCL 4-Series or the Samsung N5300, the VIZIO model holds its own in terms of features and value. While competitors like TCL offer 4K resolution at a similar price point, the Full HD clarity on this TV is still commendable, especially for users who prioritize color accuracy over resolution. Samsung, on the other hand, is known for its Tizen OS, which feels slightly smoother than VIZIO OS, but lacks the extensive free content provided by WatchFree+. Where the VIZIO TV excels is in its gaming capabilities and Bluetooth headphone compatibility, which are not always available in this category.

Price to Quality Ratio

When considering the price to quality ratio, this TV truly shines as a cost-efficient option for its feature set. It’s rare to find a TV at this size with such a balance of picture clarity, sound enhancement, and smart features. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, its practicality and performance make it a worthy contender for anyone seeking an affordable yet reliable TV option. Gamers, casual streamers, and even families looking for a second TV will find this model appealing.

Additional information