Vizio V655-G9 65-Inch 4K HDR Smart TV review is it worth it

Description

Immersive Display and Visual Quality

Testing the V-Series 65″ Class 4K HDR Smart TV V655-G9, I was immediately struck by the 65-inch screen size. It’s a beast of a TV, and its 4K HDR capabilities shine when watching anything with vibrant colors or high contrast. Movies with detailed landscapes, such as nature documentaries, look absolutely stunning. The 16:9 aspect ratio feels just right for most modern content, and I noticed how the flat-panel design eliminates that awkward glare I used to get on my older TV.

HDR support does a fantastic job enhancing brightness and color accuracy. While the brightness levels are decent, I did find that the black levels in darker scenes could be a bit deeper, especially compared to higher-end models. Still, the overall picture quality is sharp, and the upscaling feature for non-4K content works surprisingly well, making even older shows look enhanced.

Smart Features and Ease of Use

The smart functionality really enhances the overall experience. Setting it up was smooth, and the TV’s interface is intuitive, with apps like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ pre-installed. I tested streaming content directly from these apps, and the performance was generally lag-free, thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.

The remote control is simple, although it lacks some of the bells and whistles seen on pricier models, such as voice control or backlighting. The lack of advanced smart assistant integration was a slight letdown for me since I’m used to barking commands at my devices. That said, pairing the TV with external smart devices like a Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick works seamlessly.

Design and Build Quality

The sleek black finish and minimalist design of this TV make it a perfect fit in my living room. It has a modern feel without trying too hard to stand out. The dimensions (11.95 x 57.37 x 35.61 inches) are well-proportioned for a 65-inch TV, and it feels sturdy on its stand. While the stand is functional, I’d recommend wall-mounting it for a cleaner aesthetic.

One thing I noticed is the weight—46.7 pounds isn’t exactly light. Moving it around required an extra pair of hands, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to reposition it often.

Audio Performance

While the picture quality is undeniably one of this TV’s strengths, the built-in speakers are… well, adequate. For casual viewing, the audio is clear enough, but I found myself craving more depth and bass for action movies or music-heavy scenes. Pairing it with a decent soundbar or external speakers made a world of difference. Dolby Audio support does help enhance the soundstage slightly, but it’s not as immersive as I hoped.

Key Benefits

• 65-inch screen size delivers a cinematic experience.
• 4K HDR support enhances color and detail.
• Simple, intuitive smart interface for streaming apps.
• Sleek design fits seamlessly into most living spaces.

Caveats

• Black levels could be deeper for improved contrast in dark scenes.
• Audio quality is average and benefits from external speakers.
• Remote lacks advanced features like voice control or backlighting.

Competing Products

If you’re considering alternatives, Samsung’s Crystal UHD line offers slightly better color accuracy and contrast, although at a higher price point. I tested a similar TCL 65-inch 4K TV, and while it performed admirably, its interface felt clunky compared to the Vizio Smart TV interface. LG’s NanoCell series is another competitor, providing superior smart features and better black levels, but again, it’s more expensive.

Where this TV truly holds its own is in its value-for-money proposition. It provides a massive 65-inch screen, decent 4K HDR performance, and a good mix of smart features at a price that’s hard to beat. The V655-G9 edges out competitors in affordability, making it a great option for those prioritizing screen size and basic smart capabilities without breaking the bank.

Price Performance

From a price-performance perspective, this TV offers a lot for its cost. While it’s not the most feature-packed or high-end model, the balance of features versus price makes it a strong contender in the budget-friendly category. If you’re someone who values a large screen and solid 4K visuals more than premium extras, this is a worthy choice. Keep in mind that adding a soundbar or other accessories might increase your overall investment, but even then, it remains a cost-effective option compared to its pricier counterparts.

Additional information