VIZIO D-Series 32-inch Smart TV review Full HD with Apple AirPlay

Description

A Compact and Versatile Smart TV for Everyday Use

Testing the VIZIO 32-inch D-Series (D32f-G1) was an experience that left me surprisingly impressed. As someone who appreciates functional yet affordable electronics, I found this 32-inch Full HD Smart TV to be a well-rounded choice for those looking to enhance their home entertainment setup. It’s not just about watching TV—it’s about the way it integrates into your lifestyle. Whether you’re streaming, screen mirroring, or exploring the 150+ free streaming channels, this device has a lot going for it. But it isn’t without a few quirks that potential buyers should consider.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was the sleek and minimalistic design. The TV comes in a classic black finish, blending seamlessly with most living room or bedroom setups. Its compact size, measuring 28.66 x 7.83 x 18.98 inches, makes it an excellent choice for smaller spaces like a studio apartment or dorm room. The flat-screen design ensures it doesn’t take up too much physical or visual space. At just over 12.5 pounds, moving it around isn’t a hassle either.

However, while the build is sturdy, the materials feel more functional than premium. The stand works fine, but I’d recommend mounting it on a wall to maximize space and aesthetics. The 16:9 aspect ratio and Full HD resolution are perfect for binge-watching shows or playing video games.

Picture Performance and Audio Quality

The Full-Array LED backlighting really stood out during my testing. It offers exceptional light uniformity, ensuring bright and vibrant colors throughout the screen. The 1080p resolution delivers sharp and clear visuals, even when watching fast-paced action scenes. I tested it with some nature documentaries, and the level of detail was genuinely impressive for a TV in this price range.

That said, the sound quality is where things get a bit tricky. While the built-in speakers are decent for casual watching, they lack the depth and richness that audiophiles might expect. Adding an external soundbar or speaker system would elevate the experience significantly. Still, for a TV that focuses on affordability, the audio is passable.

Key Benefits

Here are a few highlights that make this TV a strong contender in its segment:

• Built-in Apple AirPlay 2 and Chromecast: Streaming content from my phone was effortless, and the screen mirroring option worked flawlessly.
• 150+ Free Streaming Channels: The inclusion of VIZIO WatchFree™ eliminates the need for extra subscriptions, making it perfect for budget-conscious users.
• Smart Home Integration: Compatibility with Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa adds a layer of convenience for those who use voice-activated devices.
• Energy Efficiency: Consuming just 39.77 watts, this TV is energy-conscious without compromising performance.

Areas for Improvement

Of course, no product is perfect, and the VIZIO D-Series has its share of shortcomings:

• Limited App Store: While the SmartCast platform is user-friendly, it doesn’t offer as many apps as competitors like Roku or Fire TV.
• Average Remote Control: The included remote feels a bit outdated and lacks a modern, ergonomic design.
• Input Lag for Gaming: Casual gamers might not notice, but the slight input lag can be frustrating for those who play fast-paced games.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to similar options like the TCL 32-inch Roku TV or the Amazon Fire TV, the VIZIO D-Series holds its ground in terms of picture quality and affordability. However, the TCL Roku TVs offer a more extensive app library and a smoother interface, making them slightly more versatile. On the other hand, Amazon’s Fire TV comes with Alexa built-in, which might appeal to users already entrenched in Amazon’s ecosystem.

That being said, the VIZIO D-Series has an edge with its Apple AirPlay 2 support and built-in Chromecast. These features make it a fantastic choice for households where streaming from various devices is a priority.

Value for Money

Looking at the price-to-quality ratio, this TV delivers excellent value. It’s a great option for someone who wants a smart TV with modern features but doesn’t want to spend a fortune. While there are minor limitations, they’re not deal-breakers unless you’re a heavy gamer or need access to a more diverse app ecosystem. For the casual viewer or small family, it offers affordable quality without sacrificing too much in terms of functionality.

In the end, the VIZIO D-Series strikes a fine balance between convenience, performance, and budget-friendliness, making it a solid choice for most households.

Additional information