Vizio 43 Inch FHD Smart TV review HDR10 and DTS Virtual X insights

Description

Crystal-Clear Visuals with Full Array LED Backlighting

The VIZIO 43 Inch FHD Smart TV (VFD43M-0804) immediately impressed me with its Full Array LED backlighting. The clarity and contrast on this TV are exceptional, making even the most mundane shows look more vibrant. Watching high-action movies or sports felt like an immersive experience. The HDR10 support further elevated the picture quality by enhancing the brightness and color depth. I could see vivid details in darker scenes without any loss of texture, which is something many other TVs in this price range struggle to achieve.

I tested the TV in a brightly lit room and a dimly lit one, and the performance was consistent. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensured a cinematic experience, and the spatial scaling engine did a decent job of upscaling older, lower-resolution content to look sharper. Whether it was movies, live TV, or YouTube videos, the picture quality was consistently pleasing.

Immersive Audio Experience

The DTS Virtual X technology in this smart TV delivers a surprisingly rich and immersive audio experience. The sound feels expansive, almost as if you’re surrounded by a room full of speakers when, in reality, it’s all coming from the TV itself. This was especially noticeable during action-packed scenes in movies, where the audio truly filled the room. I honestly didn’t feel the immediate need for a soundbar, which is rare for TVs in this size and category.

That being said, I also tested the Bluetooth compatibility by connecting wireless headphones. This feature came in handy for late-night viewing sessions, and the audio quality remained crisp, with no noticeable lag. For anyone who values private listening, this is a game-changer.

Seamless Connectivity Options

With the built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 support, streaming content from my phone and laptop was straightforward. I was able to cast Netflix, YouTube, and even mirror my iPhone screen without any hiccups. The integration with AirPlay 2 worked seamlessly, allowing me to share photos and videos during family gatherings directly on the TV.

What stood out was the dual-band WiFi 5, which ensured smooth streaming without buffering issues. Even with multiple devices connected to the same network, the TV maintained a stable connection. The Bluetooth compatibility also allowed me to pair my wireless keyboard, making the setup process and navigation faster than expected.

Optimized Gaming with HDMI VRR

As someone who enjoys gaming, the HDMI VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and V-Gaming Engine were standout features. The moment I connected my console, I noticed smoother gameplay with minimal input lag. The Active Pixel Tuning and HDR10 support made graphics-intensive games look stunning, especially during darker scenes where contrast and color accuracy are critical.

I played a fast-paced racing game to test the refresh rate, and the performance was buttery smooth. There were no noticeable screen tearing issues, which can often ruin the experience on TVs without VRR. If you’re a casual or even semi-serious gamer, this TV offers a solid gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Favorable Attributes

• Full Array LED backlighting provides bright and vivid picture quality.
• DTS Virtual X audio delivers room-filling sound without the need for external speakers.
• Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 make streaming content from devices effortless.
• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) ensures smoother gaming performance.
• Bluetooth compatibility allows for private listening and easy pairing with other devices.

Areas for Improvement

• The remote control design feels outdated and lacks backlighting, making it hard to use in dim lighting.
• Smart TV navigation can occasionally feel sluggish, especially when switching between apps.
• The plastic build of the TV stand feels less premium compared to competitors.
• Limited app selection on the Vizio platform may require reliance on external streaming devices.

Competing Products

I compared this TV with a couple of its peers in the same category, like the Samsung 43-Inch Crystal UHD TV and the LG 43-Inch 4K Smart TV. While both competitors offer 4K resolution, they come at a higher price point. The Samsung model excels in its Tizen OS, which is faster and offers more app options, but it lacks the DTS Virtual X audio that creates such an enveloping sound experience on this Vizio.

The LG TV, on the other hand, impressed me with its webOS platform and additional Dolby Vision support. However, it didn’t include HDMI VRR, which puts the Vizio ahead for gaming enthusiasts. In terms of value, the Vizio 43-Inch Smart TV holds its ground well, especially with its Full Array LED backlighting and Bluetooth compatibility, which aren’t always standard features in this price range.

Bang for the Buck

Considering the feature set, this TV offers excellent value for money. The Full HD display, HDR10 support, and DTS Virtual X audio make it a strong contender for anyone looking for a balance between performance and affordability. While it might not have the bells and whistles of higher-end models like 4K resolution or Dolby Vision, it delivers where it matters most. If you’re someone who values picture clarity, immersive sound, and reliable connectivity options, this TV is worth every penny.

Additional information