VIZIO 50-inch 4K UHD Smart TV review Dolby Vision and WiFi 6 features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 50-inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV (V4K50M-08) stands out with its sleek and modern design. Its slim black frame adds a touch of sophistication, making it a stylish addition to any living room or entertainment space. While setting it up, I noticed the sturdy build quality, which gave me confidence in its durability. The 49.5-inch display feels expansive without overwhelming the room, and the 16:9 aspect ratio provides a cinematic viewing experience. The compact yet functional stand ensures stability, though wall-mounting is always an option for those looking to save space.

One thing I appreciated was how the TV didn’t feel overly bulky despite its size. At 26.4 pounds, it’s manageable to move or adjust during setup. However, the slightly wider bezels might not appeal to those who prioritize ultra-thin designs.

Picture Quality and Visual Features

The 4K UHD resolution on this TV is nothing short of impressive. Watching movies with Dolby Vision HDR was a treat, as the colors were vivid, the contrast was sharp, and the details were clear. Whether it’s a dark thriller or a vibrant nature documentary, the Dolby Vision Bright+ feature combined with HDR10+ made every scene feel lifelike. I also tested HLG support, which performed well for live broadcasts and sports, delivering a smooth and dynamic experience.

Gaming on this TV was another highlight. The Dolby Vision HDR Gaming feature brought out every detail in my favorite games, making the visuals not just crisp but immersive. I also noticed that the Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) kicked in automatically when I connected my console, reducing lag and ensuring smooth gameplay.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The built-in VIZIO Home ecosystem is packed with options. Logging into my VIZIO account allowed me to access a plethora of apps, including streaming services and thousands of free On Demand titles via the WatchFree+ app. The addition of hundreds of free channels is perfect for anyone who wants variety without extra subscriptions.

Streaming performance was noticeably faster thanks to WiFi 6 compatibility. In my household, where multiple devices are connected at once, this made a significant difference. Whether streaming in 4K or gaming online, the connection felt stable and reliable. The Google Chromecast and Apple AirPlay integration made it incredibly easy to mirror content from my phone or laptop, which is a big plus for family gatherings or work presentations.

One standout feature is Bluetooth headphone support, which allowed me to watch late-night movies without disturbing anyone else. While it worked seamlessly with my headphones, I did wish this feature supported multiple devices simultaneously.

Audio Performance

For a TV of this size, the 8-watt speakers do a decent job. Dialogue in movies and shows was clear, though I felt the bass could use a little more punch during action scenes. Connecting to an external soundbar or speaker system is easy and improves the overall audio experience significantly.

The inclusion of voice assistance integration adds convenience. I frequently used the voice remote to search for shows, adjust settings, or even control connected smart home devices. While the voice recognition worked well most of the time, there were moments when I had to repeat commands to get the desired result.

Highlights

• Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ deliver stunning visuals with vivid colors.
• WiFi 6 ensures smooth streaming and gaming even in busy households.
• The WatchFree+ app offers hundreds of free channels and on-demand content.
• Bluetooth headphone compatibility is perfect for private viewing.
• Gaming is enhanced with Dolby Vision HDR Gaming and Auto Low Latency Mode.

Areas for Improvement

• The audio quality, though decent, could benefit from stronger bass.
• Voice command recognition sometimes falters, requiring repeated attempts.
• The bezels, while not overly thick, may feel outdated compared to ultra-thin designs.

Product Rivals

When comparing this model to competitors like the Samsung QLED 50-inch Smart TV and the LG NanoCell 50-inch TV, several things stood out. The VIZIO model excels in offering free content via WatchFree+, which isn’t as robust in these alternatives. Additionally, the WiFi 6 feature provides faster and more reliable connectivity than the WiFi 5 found in some LG models.

However, Samsung’s QLED TVs tend to have slightly better color accuracy and brightness, making them a great choice for bright rooms. LG, on the other hand, offers superior upscaling technology, which better enhances non-4K content. The VIZIO TV, while strong in gaming performance, lags slightly behind Samsung’s Game Mode in terms of motion handling.

Value for Money

In terms of cost-effectiveness, this TV delivers a solid balance of features and performance. The inclusion of Dolby Vision Bright+, WiFi 6, and built-in apps makes it a versatile option for both casual viewers and gamers. Though it may not have the premium panel technology of higher-priced competitors, it offers plenty for its price range. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly 4K TV that doesn’t skimp on smart features, this product is worth considering.

Additional information