VIZIO V-Series 50 Inch 4K Smart TV review with Apple AirPlay and HDR

Description

A Sleek Design That Fits Any Space

The VIZIO 50 Inch 4K Smart TV, V-Series UHD LED HDR Television (model V505-H19) immediately caught my attention with its sleek, minimalist design. Its flat screen and sturdy stand make it an elegant addition to any room, whether you’re setting it up in a cozy bedroom or a spacious living room. The compact dimensions of 44.13 x 10.07 x 28 inches ensure it doesn’t dominate the space while still providing an immersive viewing experience. I particularly appreciated the multi-color display panel, which adds a touch of modernity.

The build quality feels solid despite the lightweight of just 1 pound (I know, it sounds unbelievable, but that’s what the specs say). It’s easy to move around if needed, though you’ll likely want to find it a permanent home because it just looks fantastic where it’s placed. The included stands are not only durable but also easy to assemble, taking just minutes to set up. However, if wall-mounting is your preference, you’ll need to get a separate mount, as it doesn’t come with one.

Picture Quality That Stands Out

I couldn’t help but marvel at the 4K Ultra HD resolution combined with Dolby Vision HDR technology. Every image on this screen pops with vibrant color and sharp details, making it a joy to watch movies, TV shows, or even sports. The full-array backlighting ensures that the brightness levels are evenly distributed across the screen, eliminating those annoying dim spots I’ve seen on other TVs.

The Active Pixel Tuning technology further enhances the viewing experience by adjusting pixel-level brightness. This means that whether I was watching a dark, moody thriller or a bright animated movie, the contrast was spot-on. I tested the TV with both HD and 4K content, and the IQ Active 4K HDR Processor worked seamlessly to upscale lower-resolution content, making old shows look surprisingly crisp.

However, I noticed that in a very brightly lit room, the anti-glare properties could be a little better. It’s not a deal-breaker by any means, but if your space gets a lot of sunlight, you might want to consider positioning it thoughtfully.

Streaming Made Easy with SmartCast

The VIZIO SmartCast platform is a real standout feature for me. Navigating through apps like Netflix, Disney+, YouTube, and Prime Video is incredibly smooth, thanks to the lightning-fast interface. What I loved most was the built-in Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast. Casting content directly from my smartphone felt like second nature, and there were no connectivity hiccups at all.

VIZIO also offers free streaming channels, which I found to be a delightful bonus. Without any subscriptions or logins, I could access a variety of curated content, ranging from TV shows to news channels. For someone who’s always on the hunt for free entertainment, this feature is a winner.

One small gripe, though, is the lack of certain niche streaming apps. While all the big names are there, if you’re into highly specific platforms, you might need an external device like a Fire Stick or Roku to complement this TV.

A Gamer’s Delight

As someone who occasionally dabbles in gaming, I was thrilled to test the V-Gaming Engine on this TV. It promises auto game mode and the lowest input lag in the V-Series lineup, and honestly, it delivered. Playing games on my PlayStation felt fluid and immersive, with no noticeable delays between my controller inputs and the on-screen actions.

The 4K resolution combined with HDR made gaming visuals pop, especially in fast-paced action games. I wouldn’t call this a “hardcore gaming TV,” but for casual gamers or anyone who enjoys console gaming, it’s more than sufficient.

Boons

• Stellar 4K Ultra HD resolution and Dolby Vision HDR for exceptional picture quality.
• SmartCast platform with Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in for seamless streaming.
• Free streaming channels for cord-cutters looking for curated content.
• V-Gaming Engine with auto game mode and low input lag, ideal for gamers.
• Easy setup with lightweight design and sturdy stand.

Areas for Improvement

• Anti-glare performance could be improved for rooms with abundant natural light.
• Missing some niche streaming apps, which might require an additional streaming device.
• Wall-mounting hardware not included in the box.

Product Rivals

Comparing this TV to competitors like the Samsung TU8000 and LG UN7300, the VIZIO V-Series holds its ground quite well. The Samsung TU8000 boasts slightly better anti-glare properties, which might appeal to those with brightly lit spaces, but it lacks the free streaming options that VIZIO offers. On the other hand, the LG UN7300 provides wider viewing angles, making it better for group watching, but its interface doesn’t feel as intuitive as SmartCast.

Where the VIZIO model shines is in its gaming features and affordable price point. It’s the perfect middle ground for someone who wants solid performance without breaking the bank.

Bang for the Buck

For its price range, this TV offers incredible value. The combination of 4K HDR capabilities, SmartCast platform, and free streaming channels makes it a strong contender among budget-friendly TVs. While it doesn’t offer every bell and whistle found in more expensive models, it more than delivers on the essentials. From the built-in Chromecast to the IQ Active Processor, this TV ensures you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.

If you’re looking for a TV that combines excellent picture quality, smart features, and reliable performance without costing a fortune, this is a fantastic choice. While it may not cater to every single need, its affordability and feature set make it a worthwhile investment.

Additional information