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

Description

Sleek Design and Compact Size

The VIZIO 32-inch D-Series D32f-G1 caught my attention straight out of the box with its compact yet modern design. Its 31.5-inch diagonal screen size is ideal for smaller spaces like bedrooms, dorms, or even a personal gaming nook. The matte black finish gives it a subtle elegance, blending seamlessly with various room setups. One thing I appreciated was the relatively slim profile, although it’s not the thinnest TV out there. The included stand is sturdy and doesn’t feel cheap, but if you prefer wall-mounting, the lightweight design makes that process pretty straightforward.

Picture Quality That Surprises

I’m usually skeptical about Full HD 1080p TVs in this size category, but I was pleasantly surprised by the full-array LED backlighting. The uniformity of brightness really elevates the viewing experience, whether I was binge-watching shows or catching live sports. Colors are vibrant without being oversaturated, and the 16:9 aspect ratio ensures no awkward cropping or black bars. I tested it in both bright and dim lighting, and while it performed admirably in both, the absence of HDR support was noticeable in some high-contrast scenes. For casual viewing, though, it’s more than adequate.

Smart Features Galore

In terms of connectivity, the SmartCast platform is the star of the show. It’s incredibly convenient to have Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, and support for screen mirroring from my phone. These features eliminate the need for additional streaming devices, which is a huge win. I was able to stream content directly from apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ without any hiccups. The addition of VIZIO WatchFree, offering access to over 150 free streaming channels, is a nice touch, especially for cord-cutters. However, navigating the interface felt slightly sluggish at times, and I noticed a bit of lag when switching between apps.

Audio Performance – A Mixed Bag

The built-in speakers are serviceable for day-to-day use, but they won’t blow you away. Dialogue comes through clearly, which is crucial for TV shows and news, but the bass feels almost non-existent. I paired it with a soundbar for a better experience during action movies and concerts, and that made a world of difference. If you care about immersive audio, you’ll definitely want to invest in external speakers.

Positives

Here are some of the key benefits I noticed while testing this TV:

• Full-array LED backlighting for consistent brightness and improved picture quality.
• SmartCast platform with built-in AirPlay 2 and Chromecast offers seamless streaming.
• Lightweight design makes it easy to wall-mount or move around.
• VIZIO WatchFree provides free access to 150+ channels with no subscription fees.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

• No HDR support, which limits its performance in high-contrast scenes.
• The interface can feel laggy, especially when multitasking between apps.
• Audio quality is underwhelming for anything beyond casual viewing.

Competing Products

Compared to other budget-friendly smart TVs, the VIZIO D32f-G1 holds its own but isn’t without competition. For instance, TCL’s 32-inch Roku TV is another strong contender in this category. While the TCL model boasts HDR support and a more intuitive interface, it falls slightly short in terms of build quality. Alternatively, Samsung’s 32-inch M7 Smart Monitor offers a sleeker design and better color accuracy, but it’s significantly pricier, making the VIZIO a better value pick for budget-conscious buyers.

Worth Every Penny

The price-to-quality ratio of this TV is hard to ignore. It delivers a solid 1080p display, a wealth of smart features, and a compact design that fits into various spaces effortlessly. While it’s not perfect, particularly in terms of HDR support and audio performance, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an affordable, feature-packed smart TV.

Additional information