VIZIO V-Series 50-Inch 4K HDR Smart TV review with features and performance insights

Description

A Balance of Features and Affordability

Testing the VIZIO V-Series 50” Class (49.5″ Diag.) 4K HDR Smart TV has been an intriguing experience. This TV combines a solid mix of 4K Ultra HD resolution, voice control compatibility, and built-in streaming capabilities, all at an accessible price point. I’ve been using it for everything from binge-watching shows to casual gaming, and while there’s a lot to appreciate, there are a few caveats to consider.

Design and Build Quality

The build of this 50-inch TV is simple yet functional. Its flat-screen design and slim bezels give it a modern aesthetic, although the materials feel a bit lightweight compared to higher-end models. While not exactly premium, it doesn’t look cheap either. Setting it up was straightforward, and its dimensions (44.13 x 2.42 x 25.59 inches) fit nicely on my stand without dominating the room. The dual speakers are neatly tucked away but deliver average sound quality, which I’ll touch on later.

Picture Quality and Performance

What caught my eye immediately was the 4K Ultra HD resolution, offering four times the detail of a standard 1080p display. Watching nature documentaries and action-packed movies truly showcased the 8 million pixels at work. The inclusion of Dolby Vision HDR and support for HDR10 and HLG formats really brought out vibrant colors and sharp contrasts. Blacks felt deeper, and whites were crisp, thanks to the Full Array LED backlighting that ensures even light distribution across the screen.

However, I noticed that the brightness levels could feel a tad underwhelming in a sunlit room, so it’s better suited for dim or moderately lit spaces. The 120V power requirement and 135-watt energy consumption place it in a reasonable energy category for its size.

Smart Features and Streaming Options

This TV comes equipped with SmartCast 3.0, which makes streaming an absolute breeze. Apps like Netflix and Hulu are right there on the home screen, and I didn’t need an external streaming device to access them. What’s more, Chromecast is built-in, allowing me to mirror content from my phone or laptop effortlessly. I’ve streamed everything from YouTube playlists to niche apps, and the experience has been smooth, aided by the octa-core processor.

The VIZIO Watch Free platform was an unexpected perk. With access to over 100 free channels, I found myself scrolling through live news, sports, and even obscure comedy shows. It’s not as polished as premium streaming services, but hey, it’s free!

Another cool feature is the hands-free voice control. I was able to change channels and adjust settings using Alexa and Google Assistant devices I already had. This level of integration adds a layer of convenience, especially when my hands are full.

Audio Performance

The sound quality, driven by its dual speakers, is adequate but not remarkable. Dialogues are clear, but the bass feels somewhat weak, leaving action scenes less impactful than I’d hoped. You’ll likely want to pair this TV with a decent soundbar or external speaker system to maximize the audio experience.

Positive Features

Here are some key benefits I found while using the TV:

• 4K Ultra HD resolution delivers sharp and detailed imagery.
• Dolby Vision HDR brings stunning colors and contrasts to life.
• Built-in Chromecast makes streaming from devices seamless.
• VIZIO Watch Free offers 100+ free channels right out of the box.
• Voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant is very handy.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its strengths, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Brightness levels struggle in very bright rooms.
• Sound quality is average, lacking depth in bass.
• The interface can occasionally feel slow, even with an octa-core processor.

Other Options

Comparing this to some competing products in the same price range, I found the TCL 5-Series Roku TV to be a strong alternative. It offers similar features like 4K HDR and built-in streaming but has a more intuitive Roku interface. On the downside, its build quality feels slightly less robust than this TV.

The Samsung TU8000 is another competitor worth mentioning. It boasts a sleeker design and marginally better picture quality, but it’s often priced higher, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.

Value for Money

From a value proposition standpoint, this TV strikes a compelling balance between features and affordability. It’s not a premium model by any stretch, but for the price, you’re getting a 50-inch screen, 4K resolution, HDR support, and smart functionality. If you’re looking for a decent upgrade from a 1080p TV without breaking the bank, this is worth considering.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you’re particular about top-tier brightness or sound, you might need to make some additional investments in a soundbar or consider a higher-end model.

Additional information