Vizio 40-inch Full HD Smart TV review with DTS Virtual X features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 40-inch Full HD Smart TV (VFD40M-08) immediately caught my eye with its sleek and modern 3-sided ThinFrame design. It’s not just about aesthetics, though; the compact 40-inch screen size makes it ideal for apartments, bedrooms, or even a home office. Despite its lighter weight of 18.9 pounds, the TV feels sturdy and well-built. The black finish adds a touch of elegance, blending seamlessly with most interiors. Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the well-designed stand and clear instructions. I appreciated that its dimensions—8.81 x 35.13 x 22.26 inches—made it easy to fit on my existing TV stand without feeling bulky.

Picture Quality and Display Performance

What stood out most during my testing was the Full HD 1080p resolution, which is a definite upgrade from standard HD. The Full Array LED Backlight ensures uniform brightness, and the Active Pixel Tuning takes the visuals to another level. Watching movies and sports felt immersive, with richer contrast and vibrant colors that genuinely popped. The 16:9 aspect ratio worked perfectly for both cinematic experiences and gaming. I even tested it in a dimly lit room, and the picture clarity remained outstanding. Plus, the added HDR10 support on HDMI really enhanced the dynamic range, making darker scenes clearer and bright scenes more vivid.

Smart Features and Operating System

What makes this model truly shine is the VIZIO OS, which provides instant access to built-in apps and free streaming options. I didn’t expect the WatchFree+ app to offer such a wide selection of free channels and on-demand titles, but it was a pleasant surprise. Setting up a VIZIO Account was necessary to unlock all the smart features, including managing app subscriptions, but the process was quick and painless. The customizable home screen made navigating between apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube seamless. Additionally, the Google Cast built-in allowed me to mirror content from my phone effortlessly. It’s worth noting that Bluetooth headphone support was a game-changer for late-night viewing without disturbing others in the house.

Audio Performance

The inclusion of DTS Virtual:X audio technology made a noticeable difference when I tested various genres of content. Dialogue in shows and movies was crisp, and the virtual surround sound added depth to action scenes. While the built-in speakers were adequate for casual viewing, I found adding an external soundbar enhanced the experience further. The TV’s audio capabilities are good enough for most users, but audiophiles might prefer a more robust external setup.

Key Benefits

• Full HD resolution delivers sharp, vibrant visuals with excellent contrast.
• The VIZIO OS makes accessing apps and free content incredibly convenient.
• Bluetooth headphone capability offers private listening without hassle.
• HDR10 support enhances the dynamic range, especially for gaming and movies.

Areas for Improvement

• The required VIZIO Account setup might not appeal to all users.
• Built-in speakers, while decent, could benefit from more bass for a fuller sound.
• The lack of advanced gaming features like a higher refresh rate might deter hardcore gamers.

Competing Products

Comparing this TV to options from brands like Samsung and LG, I noticed a few distinctions. Samsung’s similarly sized models often feature QLED technology, which provides superior color accuracy, but they come at a noticeably higher price point. LG’s offerings, on the other hand, boast WebOS, which some might find more intuitive than VIZIO OS. However, the VIZIO 40-inch Full HD Smart TV holds its ground with its built-in WatchFree+ app and Bluetooth headphone support, features not always present in competitors at this price range. It also performed admirably in terms of picture quality, rivaling some more expensive models.

Price Performance

Looking at the price to quality ratio, this TV offers excellent value. While it doesn’t boast cutting-edge features like OLED or 120Hz refresh rates, it delivers exceptional quality for its category. The inclusion of smart features, HDR10 support, and DTS Virtual:X audio makes it a strong contender for those needing a reliable, feature-rich television without breaking the bank. It’s a budget-friendly option that feels like a premium product in several key areas.

Testing this TV was a genuinely satisfying experience. It offers a blend of performance, design, and practicality that’s hard to find in its category. While it’s not perfect, the negatives are relatively minor compared to the overall package.

Additional information