VIZIO 43-inch Quantum 4K QLED HDR Smart TV w/Dolby Vision HDR (VQD43M-0801) Review

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Design and Build Quality
The VIZIO VQD43M-0801 sports a sleek and modern design, with thin bezels that allow for a more immersive viewing experience. The TV is compact yet premium-looking, perfect for mid-sized rooms like bedrooms, offices, or smaller living spaces. It’s lightweight enough for easy installation, whether on a stand or mounted on the wall, and the overall build quality is sturdy, although mostly made of plastic materials, which is typical for TVs in this price range.
Display and Picture Quality
The main selling point of this model is its Quantum Dot technology, which enhances color accuracy and brightness. Quantum dots allow for a wider color gamut, delivering more vibrant and saturated colors, which are especially noticeable in colorful scenes. This means you'll see richer reds, deeper blues, and more vivid greens, enhancing your overall viewing experience.
The 4K resolution (3840 x 2160) ensures sharp and detailed images, while HDR (High Dynamic Range) formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+ make the contrast between light and dark scenes more dynamic. The support for Dolby Vision is a big plus at this price point, as it’s one of the most advanced HDR formats available, optimizing the brightness and contrast for each scene.
The Active Full Array backlighting helps improve contrast, delivering deeper blacks and better brightness control across the screen, although it's not as effective as the more advanced local dimming technologies found on higher-end models. Still, this feature enhances the overall viewing experience, particularly in darker scenes where detail retention is important.
Gaming Performance
For gamers, the VQD43M-0801 shines with its ability to support 120fps at 1080p, ensuring a smooth gaming experience with fast response times. While the TV does not support 120fps at 4K, the 1080p performance is more than adequate for most gamers who prioritize frame rates over resolution. The Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and AMD FreeSync features further reduce screen tearing and input lag, providing a seamless gaming experience. This makes it an excellent choice for console gamers using systems like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, or for PC gamers who value high frame rates.
Smart Features and Connectivity
VIZIO's SmartCast platform powers the TV, giving users access to a wide variety of streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more. The interface is user-friendly but has been criticized for being slower than more robust systems like Roku or Google TV. Despite this, it covers all the essential apps and supports Apple AirPlay and Google Cast, allowing you to stream content from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop easily.
One notable feature is WiFi 6, which ensures faster internet speeds and more stable streaming, especially for 4K content. It also supports Bluetooth, allowing users to connect Bluetooth headphones for private listening, a feature that’s not common in all smart TVs.
The remote control is simple and includes quick-access buttons for popular streaming apps, though voice control is not as seamless as some competitors. The TV works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, adding versatility to its smart home integration.
Sound Quality
While the TV excels in visual performance, the sound quality is average. The built-in speakers provide clear dialogue, but they lack bass and depth, which is typical of most flat-screen TVs. For an immersive audio experience, users will likely want to invest in a soundbar or external speakers. The TV supports HDMI eARC, making it easy to connect to high-quality sound systems.
Conclusion
The VIZIO 43-inch Quantum 4K QLED HDR Smart TV is a feature-packed option that provides excellent value for those looking for a mid-sized smart TV with vibrant picture quality, solid gaming features, and versatile streaming capabilities. Its QLED panel with Dolby Vision offers stunning visuals, while the 120fps gaming support and WiFi 6 make it a great choice for gamers and streamers alike. However, the sluggish SmartCast interface and average sound quality might require additional investments in external devices for the best experience.
Positive Points:
Quantum Dot technology for enhanced color accuracy and brightness
4K UHD resolution with Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
120fps at 1080p for smooth gaming, plus VRR and AMD FreeSync
Built-in Apple AirPlay and Google Cast for easy content streaming
WiFi 6 and Bluetooth headphone support for modern connectivity
HDMI eARC for enhanced audio quality through external devices
Negative Points:
SmartCast interface can be slow compared to other platforms
Built-in speakers lack bass and depth, requiring external sound solutions
Does not support 120fps at 4K resolution
Plastic build quality, though typical for its price range