VIZIO D24-D1 D-Series 24 Inch LED Smart TV review for affordable streaming options

Description

Key Features of the VIZIO D24-D1 D-Series 24″ Class LED Smart TV

Testing out the VIZIO D24-D1 D-Series at home has been an interesting experience. This 24-inch LED smart TV combines simplicity with functionality, making it a decent option for those looking for a compact yet capable television. From its Edge Lit LED backlight to the built-in smart features, there’s a lot to unpack here. I made sure to dive deep into its features, quirks, and overall performance to give you a no-nonsense review.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek and ultra-thin design of this smart TV. The black finish with an ultra-narrow frame gives it a modern aesthetic, making it perfect for smaller spaces like bedrooms, dorm rooms, or even a cozy kitchen corner. It’s lightweight too, weighing just 7.66 pounds, which made setting it up on the included stand a breeze. The only thing I found slightly annoying was the placement of the ports. With the HDMI and USB ports tucked away at the back, plugging in devices required a bit of maneuvering.

Display Performance

The 1080p Full HD resolution is one of the standout features of this TV. Watching my favorite shows on Netflix and Hulu was a pleasant experience, as the Edge Lit LED technology does a commendable job of delivering consistent brightness. The 16:9 aspect ratio ensures widescreen content looks just right, and while the 60 Hz refresh rate is decent, it’s not exactly groundbreaking. Fast-paced action scenes sometimes felt a tad less smooth, but for general viewing, it holds up well.

What I appreciated most was the vibrant color reproduction, which adds life to movies and TV shows. However, I did notice that the viewing angles aren’t as wide as I’d hoped. Sitting directly in front of the screen is ideal, as the picture quality diminishes slightly when viewed from the sides.

Smart Features and Connectivity

The VIZIO Internet Apps Plus platform is where this TV shines. With built-in Wi-Fi, accessing apps like Netflix, Hulu Plus, Pandora, YouTube, and Vudu was straightforward. The interface is simple, though not as polished or fast as some of the newer smart TV operating systems. Streaming felt seamless for the most part, but I did experience occasional lag when switching between apps.

One HDMI port might be limiting for users with multiple devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or soundbars. On the plus side, the USB port came in handy for viewing photos and videos directly from a flash drive, which was a nice touch. The 120-volt power requirement and 19.7-watt energy consumption make it an energy-efficient option, especially if you’re conscious about electricity usage.

Key Benefits

• Compact design with an ultra-thin frame, suitable for small spaces.
• Edge Lit LED backlight for a vibrant and evenly lit picture.
• Built-in Wi-Fi for seamless access to popular apps like Netflix and YouTube.
• Full HD 1080p resolution for crisp and clear visuals.
• Lightweight at 7.66 pounds, making it easy to move and install.

Usability and Sound Quality

Navigating the settings and features on this TV was relatively simple. The remote control, while functional, felt a bit basic and could have used a backlit design for easier operation in dim lighting. My younger cousin found it straightforward to use, which is a testament to its user-friendly interface.

Sound quality, on the other hand, left me wanting more. The built-in speakers are serviceable for casual viewing, but they lack depth and bass. Pairing the TV with a soundbar or external speakers is almost a necessity if you want an immersive audio experience.

Areas for Improvement

• Limited to one HDMI port, which restricts connectivity options.
• Viewing angles could be wider for a more flexible setup.
• The TV interface lags occasionally when navigating apps.
• Sound quality is average and could benefit from external audio support.

Direct Competitors

When comparing this TV to similar products, a few alternatives come to mind. The Samsung M4500 is a solid competitor in the 24-inch category, offering better app support and a more intuitive Smart Hub interface. However, it comes at a slightly higher price point. Another competitor is the TCL 3-Series, which features Roku’s user-friendly platform and more HDMI ports, giving it an edge in terms of connectivity.

Where the VIZIO D24-D1 pulls ahead is its sleek design and energy efficiency. It’s also lighter and easier to handle compared to some bulkier models. However, for those prioritizing sound quality and faster app performance, the competitors might be worth considering.

Quality for Price

The VIZIO D24-D1 strikes a balance between affordability and performance. While it’s not packed with high-end features, the value it offers for its price is undeniable. The energy efficiency, smart functionality, and compact design make it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, if you’re someone who needs multiple HDMI ports or a more robust sound system, you might want to allocate a bit more of your budget to a higher-tier model.

Ultimately, this TV feels like a great secondary screen for a smaller room or a starter smart TV for someone upgrading from an older model. It’s not perfect, but the trade-offs are reasonable given its price range.

Additional information