VIZIO D24f-J09 24-inch Full HD Smart TV review with gaming and streaming features

Description

Compact Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 24-inch D-Series Full HD 1080p Smart TV (D24f-J09) surprised me with its sleek and compact design. At just 6.07 pounds, it’s lightweight, making it a breeze to move around. The 21.82 x 14.85-inch frame fits perfectly into tight spaces like dorms, kitchens, or smaller bedrooms. Its black finish gives it a modern, understated look that blends easily with most decor styles. While the build quality feels solid, the stand, though functional, didn’t scream premium. Wall-mounting might be a better option if you’re looking for a cleaner setup.

Picture Quality and Display Performance

This TV delivers 1080p Full HD resolution, and I have to say, the image clarity is impressive for its size. The Full Array LED backlight ensures even light distribution across the screen, which translates to better contrast and a more immersive viewing experience. Watching movies or binge-watching shows felt satisfying, with colors that were vibrant but not overly saturated. However, the 16:9 aspect ratio is pretty standard, and I noticed slight struggles with darker scenes where details seemed to get lost. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind if you’re a fan of moody, atmospheric shows.

Gaming Features That Stand Out

I tested this TV with gaming, and the V-Gaming Engine really does elevate the experience. Features like Variable Refresh Rate with AMD FreeSync and Auto Game Mode made gameplay smoother and more responsive. The low input lag is a major plus for those who play fast-paced games. While the 24-inch screen size isn’t ideal for split-screen gaming or highly detailed open-world games, it’s great for casual gaming or as a secondary screen for a console. Having a newly added gaming menu felt like a bonus, making it easy to tweak settings for an optimal experience.

Smart TV Features and Usability

The TV’s SmartCast platform is where it shines the most. With built-in Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2, streaming from my phone or laptop was seamless. The selection of apps, including Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, is fantastic, and the intuitive navigation made finding content effortless. I particularly loved the WatchFree+ feature, which offers free access to live TV and channels. However, the load times for some apps weren’t as quick as I’d hoped, even though the IQ Picture Processor is supposed to ensure faster navigation. It’s not a major issue but can be a minor annoyance if you’re impatient like me.

Audio Performance

The built-in speakers, rated at 9 watts each, are decent for a TV of this size. Dialogue comes through clearly, which is essential for watching news or sitcoms. However, for action-packed movies or music, the audio felt flat and lacked depth. If sound quality is a priority for you, investing in a soundbar or external speakers might be worth considering. The fact that it supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X pass-through is great, but you’ll need compatible hardware to truly benefit from these features.

Favorable Aspects

• Compact design ideal for small spaces.
• Full HD resolution with vibrant colors.
• V-Gaming Engine for smooth and responsive gaming.
• SmartCast platform with a wide range of apps.
• Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2 for seamless streaming.

Areas for Improvement

• Audio quality lacks depth for cinematic experiences.
• Slightly slower app load times, despite the IQ processor.
• Struggles with dark scene details in certain content.

Other Options in the Market

Comparing this to competitors, brands like TCL and Samsung offer similarly sized TVs in this price range. The TCL 3-Series is a solid alternative, with comparable smart features and slightly better audio quality, but it doesn’t have the gaming-focused features that this TV offers. On the other hand, Samsung’s M5 Smart Monitor doubles as both a TV and a computer monitor but lacks the WatchFree+ feature, which I found surprisingly useful. While these competitors have their strengths, the V-Gaming Engine and SmartCast platform make this product a standout for gamers and streaming enthusiasts.

Cost-Effectiveness

Considering its feature set, this TV offers excellent value for money. The combination of Full HD resolution, gaming-friendly features, and a robust smart TV platform makes it a strong contender in its category. While it’s not perfect, the minor flaws don’t overshadow its overall performance. For anyone looking for a compact, multi-functional TV without breaking the bank, this one delivers solidly in all the right places.

Additional information