VIZIO 43-inch 4K Smart TV review Dolby Vision HDR and WiFi 6 features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 43-inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV (V4K43M-08) immediately caught my attention with its sleek black finish and minimalist design. It’s incredibly lightweight at just 22 pounds, making it easy to place on a stand or mount on the wall. The 9.37-inch depth of the unit might feel a little bulkier compared to some ultra-thin models, but it still fits seamlessly into most entertainment setups. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures a cinematic experience, and the overall build feels sturdy and premium. I didn’t notice any creaks or wobbling, even when adjusting its position during setup.

Key Benefits

I was especially impressed by the array of advanced features packed into this TV, which feel tailored for modern users. Some highlights include:

• Dolby Vision HDR delivers vibrant color accuracy and deeper contrast, especially noticeable when streaming high-quality content.
• WiFi 6 compatibility ensures smoother streaming and gaming, even in homes with multiple smart devices.
• Bluetooth Headphone connectivity is a game-changer for late-night binge sessions without disturbing others.
• Apple AirPlay and Google Cast integration make it effortless to mirror devices and share content.
• Hundreds of free channels available via the built-in WatchFree+ app, which eliminates the need for external subscriptions.

These features make the TV a versatile choice for both casual viewers and tech enthusiasts.

Performance and Picture Quality

Watching content on this TV was a visually stunning experience. The 4K UHD resolution, paired with Dolby Vision Bright+, brought out the finest details in every scene. Colors appeared natural and vibrant, while the enhanced contrast added depth to darker scenes. The HDR10+ and HLG support work seamlessly, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of streaming platforms.

Gaming on this TV was equally satisfying. It automatically detected my console and switched to Auto Low Latency Mode, minimizing input lag for a smoother experience. The inclusion of Dolby Vision HDR Gaming made my favorite titles pop with rich colors and sharp textures.

Smart Features and Usability

Navigating through the VIZIO OS was intuitive and smooth. Apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ were pre-installed, and I was able to access hundreds of free channels without extra effort. Setting up a VIZIO Account was simple and allowed me to manage subscriptions and updates efficiently.

The voice remote was another pleasant surprise. It’s responsive and integrates with popular voice assistants, so I could search for shows or adjust the volume hands-free. I even tested the closed captioning and sleep timer features, both of which performed flawlessly.

Downsides

Despite being impressed overall, I found a few limitations worth mentioning:

• The requirement for a VIZIO Account to unlock full functionality felt a bit restrictive.
• While the WiFi 6 support is great, it’s only beneficial if your router also supports WiFi 6, which might not be the case for everyone.
• The built-in speakers, while decent, lacked the depth and bass needed for an immersive audio experience. A soundbar or external speaker system would be a wise addition.

These shortcomings don’t overshadow the positives, but they’re worth factoring in if you’re planning to purchase.

Product Comparisons

Compared to other 43-inch 4K TVs in its price range, this one holds up remarkably well. Models from brands like Samsung and LG offer similar picture quality, but they often lack the built-in free channels and Bluetooth headphone capabilities.

That said, some competitors provide better audio systems out of the box or thinner designs, which might be preferable for users prioritizing aesthetics or sound. However, the integration of Dolby Vision HDR Gaming and WiFi 6 sets this TV apart, especially for gamers and those in tech-heavy households.

Smart Spending

Given its features, the price-to-quality ratio here is excellent. While it’s not the cheapest option available, it provides a strong return on investment with its combination of 4K resolution, HDR support, and streaming-centric features. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly smart TV without cutting corners on performance, this is a solid choice.

Additional information