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

Description

Impressive Design and Build Quality

I’ve got to say, the VIZIO 43-inch 4K UHD LED Smart TV (V4K43M-08) surprised me with its sleek and modern design. It’s not just a screen; it’s a piece of decor that blends seamlessly into any room. The black finish feels premium, and the overall build gives the impression of a much more expensive product. At just over 22 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move around easily, but still sturdy enough to feel secure on its stand. The 16:9 aspect ratio is standard for TVs of this size, ensuring that movies, shows, and games look just as they should. Small details like the slim bezels make the screen feel larger than it is, immersing you in the viewing experience.

Picture Quality That Stands Out

Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ support are game-changers for someone like me who enjoys vibrant and sharp visuals. Watching movies on this TV feels like stepping into a theater. I tested it with a few action-packed films and noticed how the enhanced contrast and color depth made every scene pop. The Dolby Vision Bright+ feature, in particular, does a fantastic job of delivering true-to-life colors, especially in darker scenes. It’s not just about brightness; it’s about the balance between light and shadow. Even gaming on this TV was a treat, thanks to its Dolby Vision HDR Gaming capability. It automatically enabled the Auto Low Latency Mode when I connected my console, ensuring a smoother and more responsive gaming experience.

Smart Features That Actually Matter

Using the built-in VIZIO OS turned out to be incredibly intuitive. Setting up a VIZIO Account was quick, and it unlocked access to a plethora of apps, free channels, and even thousands of On Demand titles via the WatchFree+ app. I appreciated how everything was pre-loaded, so I didn’t have to fumble around downloading basic apps. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube worked without any hiccups. Thanks to the WiFi 6 support, streaming was fast and smooth, even during peak hours when my home network was congested. You can tell this feature was designed with modern households in mind.

The Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast integration also deserve a shoutout. Sharing content from my phone or laptop to the TV was seamless. Whether it was family photos or work presentations, it worked like a charm. On top of that, the Bluetooth headphone compatibility allowed me to watch late-night shows without disturbing anyone else in the house.

Key Benefits

• Exceptional picture quality with Dolby Vision HDR, HDR10+, and HLG support.
• Built-in VIZIO OS with access to hundreds of free channels and thousands of On Demand titles.
• WiFi 6 compatibility for faster streaming and gaming performance.
• Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast for effortless content sharing.
• Auto Low Latency Mode for smoother gaming experiences.

Control and Convenience

The voice remote included with the TV was surprisingly responsive. I could search for shows, adjust settings, and even control other smart devices in my home without navigating clunky menus. This feature saved me so much time, and it’s ideal for anyone who isn’t a fan of traditional button-heavy remotes. The sleep timer feature was another thoughtful addition. I often fall asleep while watching TV, so this ensures the screen doesn’t stay on all night.

Areas of Concern

• The VIZIO Account requirement for accessing smart features might feel restrictive to some users.
• While the built-in apps are convenient, there’s no option to remove or rearrange them, which could be a bit annoying for customization enthusiasts.
• The sound quality, though decent, could benefit from a bit more depth and bass. An external soundbar might be necessary for audiophiles.

Product Rivals

It’s worth comparing this TV to other 43-inch 4K smart TVs in the same price range. For instance, brands like Samsung and LG offer similar models, but they often come at a higher cost. Samsung’s models might have slightly better sound quality out of the box, while LG’s WebOS can feel more polished than VIZIO OS. However, this TV’s WiFi 6 compatibility and Dolby Vision Bright+ features give it a competitive edge. Many competing brands still rely on WiFi 5, which can result in slower streaming speeds in busy households. Additionally, the inclusion of Bluetooth headphone support is something I haven’t seen in many competitors at this price point.

Bang for the Buck

This TV offers solid value for what you’re paying. While it’s not the cheapest 43-inch 4K TV on the market, the combination of features like Dolby Vision HDR, Apple AirPlay, and WiFi 6 make it a smart investment. Some pricier models don’t even include these perks, so you’re definitely getting your money’s worth here. If you’re looking for a TV that delivers versatile functionality without breaking the bank, this one checks all the boxes.

Additional information