VIZIO 32 Inch V Series Smart LED TV review with Airplay and Chromecast

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 32 Inch V Series Full Array LED Smart HD TV (VHD32M-0810) immediately struck me with its sleek and modern design. Its compact 32-inch screen is perfect for smaller spaces, like bedrooms or cozy living rooms. The black finish gives it a clean and polished look, blending seamlessly into various decor styles. At just over 12 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to mount or move around without a hassle, yet it feels sturdy and well-constructed. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures you get a wide viewing experience, which is ideal for both binge-watching shows and casual gaming. However, the bezels are slightly thicker than I’d like, which may be a minor aesthetic drawback for some.

Performance and Picture Quality

The 1080p Full HD resolution on this television delivers an impressive level of clarity and detail. I was surprised at how vibrant the colors appeared, especially during animated movies and nature documentaries. The Full Array LED backlighting ensures even brightness across the screen, which makes a noticeable difference during darker scenes. Additionally, the Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) enhances motion smoothness, making it a great option for gamers. While it doesn’t support 4K resolution, the 1080p quality still holds its own for most content. That said, I did notice a slight dip in sharpness when sitting closer than a few feet from the screen.

Audio Features

Audio performance on this Vizio smart TV is powered by DTS Virtual:X, which creates an immersive soundstage. I tested it with action movies and was impressed by the depth and clarity of the sound. The bass isn’t room-shaking, but it’s respectable for a TV of this size. If you’re an audiophile, pairing it with a soundbar might be a good idea. The Bluetooth compatibility allows you to connect wireless headphones or speakers, which is a fantastic feature for late-night viewing. Overall, the sound is crisp, but I found that the volume levels needed to be turned up higher than expected in larger rooms.

Smart Features and Connectivity

This smart TV is loaded with AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in, making it a breeze to stream content from my phone or laptop. The interface is intuitive, and the apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube run smoothly without lag. I appreciated the Bluetooth functionality, which made pairing devices painless. However, I did notice that the initial app loading times could be a tad slower compared to some pricier models. The inclusion of dual-band WiFi ensures stable connectivity, even in areas with weaker signals. For gamers, the VRR support is a game-changer, reducing screen tearing and providing a smoother gaming experience.

Key Benefits

• Crisp 1080p resolution for detailed visuals.
• DTS Virtual:X audio delivers immersive sound.
• AirPlay 2 and Chromecast for seamless streaming.
• Bluetooth compatibility for headphones and devices.
• VRR support, ideal for gamers.

Areas for Improvement

• Slightly thicker bezels, which might not appeal to minimalist tastes.
• App loading times can feel slow occasionally.
• Audio volume needs boosting for larger rooms.
• Lack of 4K support, which might deter some buyers.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to other 32-inch models, a few competitors stand out. The Samsung QN32Q50 offers 4K resolution but comes at a higher price. While it excels in picture quality, it lacks the Bluetooth compatibility and VRR support found in this Vizio model. On the other hand, the TCL 32S327 provides a similar 1080p resolution with a Roku TV interface, which some users might find more user-friendly. However, the TCL lacks DTS Virtual:X, making the audio experience less immersive. The Vizio VHD32M-0810 finds a sweet spot by balancing affordability with features like AirPlay 2, superior sound, and gaming enhancements.

Value for Money

The Vizio 32 Inch V Series Smart TV delivers a solid balance of features at a competitive price point. While it’s not the most cutting-edge option on the market, the combination of 1080p resolution, smart connectivity, and VRR support makes it a great choice for casual viewers and gamers alike. It’s not 4K, but for a budget-friendly TV, it packs enough punch to meet the needs of most users. If you’re looking for a compact, feature-rich TV without breaking the bank, this one is worth considering.

Additional information