Vizio V-Series 65 Inch 4K HDR Smart TV review and features explored

Description

A Bold Look at the 65″ 4K HDR Smart TV

Testing the VIZIO V-Series 65″ Class 4K HDR Smart TV (V655-G9) has been an interesting ride. Right out of the box, the sheer size of the 65-inch flat screen immediately caught my attention. It’s sleek, modern, and fits well into almost any living room. Having tested a fair share of similar TVs, this one stood out for both good and not-so-good reasons, which I’ll break down for you.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this TV is simple yet functional. Its black frame gives it a sleek, minimalistic look, while the flat panel is lightweight for its size, at 46.7 pounds. Setting it up was straightforward, though I did need help due to its size. The 11.95 x 57.37 x 35.61-inch dimensions make it ideal for a home theater setup or a spacious living room wall.

One thing I noticed was the sturdy stand that comes with it, which keeps the TV stable even on slightly uneven surfaces. However, for those who prefer wall mounting, the flat design makes it a breeze to install. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures that movies and shows look just as they were meant to be seen, filling the screen without awkward cropping.

Key Benefits

• Ultra HD 4K resolution provides crisp, detailed visuals that make movies and shows pop.
• The lightweight flat design makes it versatile for different placements.
• Easy setup with a sturdy stand and wall mounting compatibility.

Performance and Picture Quality

Once powered on, the 4K HDR display delivers sharp and vivid images. Watching nature documentaries felt immersive, with the high dynamic range bringing out vibrant colors and deep contrasts. The blacks were decent, though not as rich as on some OLED models. While the 65-inch size is perfect for cinematic experiences, I did notice that the screen struggles slightly in brightly lit rooms, with mild glare issues.

Streaming content was smooth, thanks to the smart TV capabilities. Navigating through apps like Netflix and Hulu felt responsive, though the interface could be a bit more intuitive. The built-in processor seemed efficient, handling multiple apps without lag, but the menus occasionally felt clunky compared to higher-end models.

Upsides

• High dynamic range (HDR) adds depth and realism to images.
• 65-inch screen size is ideal for home theaters and large rooms.
• Smart TV features provide access to popular streaming apps.

Audio Quality and Sound Performance

The audio output of this TV is… adequate. It comes equipped with built-in speakers that deliver clear dialogue, which I appreciated during quieter scenes. However, during action-packed moments or music-heavy episodes, the sound felt somewhat flat, lacking the depth and bass that elevate the experience. Pairing it with a soundbar or external speakers made a world of difference.

Areas for Improvement

• Built-in sound system lacks power and depth.
• Interface navigation can feel a bit sluggish at times.
• Struggles with screen glare in well-lit environments.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The smart features are where this TV shines and stumbles simultaneously. It supports all the usual suspects like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, but the interface, while functional, isn’t groundbreaking. I appreciated the Wi-Fi connectivity, which allowed seamless streaming, but I did notice occasional buffering, even on a solid internet connection.

On the connectivity side, it’s well-equipped, featuring multiple HDMI ports, USB slots, and even an Ethernet port for stable wired connections. This makes it a versatile choice for gamers or those wanting to hook up external devices like Blu-ray players.

Competing Products

When compared to Samsung’s 65″ Crystal UHD TV, this model offers a solid 4K experience but falls short in terms of sound and interface fluidity. Samsung’s model boasts better upscaling technology and richer colors. Meanwhile, LG’s 65″ NanoCell TV edges out the VIZIO with its incredible color accuracy and vibrant display but comes at a steeper price point.

Where the VIZIO model wins is in its affordability and straightforward design, making it a great entry-level choice for anyone wanting a large screen without breaking the bank.

Cost Efficiency

I’d say this TV hits the sweet spot for those looking for cost-effectiveness. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a premium model, its affordable quality makes it a solid option for casual viewers. If you’re looking for something budget-friendly that still delivers quality visuals, it’s a worthwhile investment, provided you’re aware of its limitations.

Final Thoughts on Pros and Cons

Favorable Aspects:

• Affordable 4K experience for budget-conscious buyers.
• Large screen size perfect for immersive viewing.
• Multiple connectivity options, including HDMI and Ethernet.

Adverse Aspects:

• Sound quality does not meet high-performance expectations.
• Interface responsiveness can be improved.
• Screen glare is noticeable in bright conditions.

After thoroughly testing this 65-inch flat-panel TV, I found it to be a great option for casual viewing and streaming. It’s not without its shortcomings, but for its price range, it holds its own against competitors.

Additional information