VIZIO V505-J09 50-Inch 4K Smart TV review with Dolby Vision and HDR10+

Description

Design and Build Quality

The VIZIO 50-Inch V-Series 4K UHD LED HDR Smart TV (V505-J09) really surprised me with its sleek and modern design. The TV has a minimal bezel, giving it an almost edge-to-edge screen that looks great in any room. Its compact dimensions of 48 x 7 x 33 inches make it a perfect fit for most entertainment setups, and the included stand is both sturdy and easy to assemble. At just 22 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move around without much hassle. The matte black finish adds a premium feel, though fingerprints and dust can become noticeable over time.

One thing to highlight is how the ports are conveniently placed on the side, making it simple to connect devices without fumbling around. It includes three HDMI ports, USB, and Ethernet connectivity, which is more than enough for most setups. While the overall design is practical and appealing, I did notice that the plastic body feels a bit less durable compared to higher-end models.

Picture Quality and Performance

Right out of the box, the 4K Ultra HD resolution with over 8 million pixels stood out. Watching content in Dolby Vision HDR was a treat, especially with the deep contrast and vibrant colors this TV can produce. The HDR10+ and HLG support are also impressive, as they enhance the dynamic range in both streaming and gaming. I tested it while streaming a few shows on Netflix, and the clarity was jaw-dropping.

The IQ Active 4K HDR Processor deserves a lot of credit here. It handles upscaling exceptionally well, making even older HD content look polished and vibrant. The Active Pixel Tuning feature ensures consistent brightness and sharpness across the screen, which is a noticeable advantage for action-packed scenes. However, local dimming is missing, which could have improved the contrast further. In dimly lit scenes, blacks tend to look a bit grayish.

Smart Features

Navigating through the SmartCast interface was surprisingly smooth. The system is responsive, and apps like Disney+, YouTube, and Netflix load quickly. I also loved the inclusion of VIZIO Voice on the remote. Saying commands like “Find action movies” or “Open YouTube” worked like a charm without any hiccups. It’s not just a gimmick—it genuinely makes browsing more convenient.

Having Apple AirPlay and Chromecast built-in is a game-changer for me. I could easily cast videos, photos, and even presentations from my phone or laptop to the TV. The WatchFree+ feature is a nice touch too, offering a range of free channels without requiring any subscription. However, the app selection is somewhat limited compared to competitors that use Android TV or Roku platforms.

Gaming Experience

As someone who occasionally games, the Auto Game Mode and Low Latency Gaming features stood out the most. I connected my PS5 and was impressed by how the TV adjusted settings automatically to reduce input lag. The HDMI 2.1 support ensures smooth gameplay at higher refresh rates, though the 60Hz refresh rate may not fully satisfy those used to 120Hz displays. Still, for casual gaming or even semi-serious use, this TV handles itself well.

One minor gripe was the lack of variable refresh rate (VRR), which would have been a welcome addition for a more premium gaming experience. Nevertheless, games looked crisp and vibrant, thanks to the 4K resolution and HDR support.

Key Benefits

• Stunning 4K UHD resolution with Dolby Vision HDR and HDR10+ support.
• SmartCast interface is intuitive and supports popular apps like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube.
• VIZIO Voice remote makes navigation and commands effortless.
• Built-in Chromecast and AirPlay enhance connectivity options.
• Auto Game Mode and HDMI 2.1 for smooth gaming performance.

Limitations

• Plastic body feels less durable compared to premium models.
• Lack of local dimming affects black levels in dark scenes.
• Limited app selection compared to Android TV or Roku.
• Refresh rate capped at 60Hz, which may not appeal to hardcore gamers.

Competing Products

When comparing this TV to other options like the TCL 5-Series Roku TV or the Samsung TU8000, it holds its ground in several areas. The TCL model offers a similar Dolby Vision HDR experience, but its Roku interface is more versatile with a wider app library. On the other hand, the Samsung TU8000 excels in build quality and color accuracy, but it lacks built-in Chromecast and AirPlay.

Where this TV stands out is its gaming-friendly features like Auto Game Mode and HDMI 2.1, something the TCL and Samsung models don’t fully deliver in this price range. However, if you’re a fan of a more polished OS with greater app choices, the Roku platform on the TCL TV might be more appealing.

Price Performance

For a refurbished model, the VIZIO V-Series offers solid value. It feels like you’re getting a lot of premium features—Dolby Vision, Chromecast, HDMI 2.1—for a reasonable cost. The performance you’re getting for the price is genuinely impressive, even though there are a few compromises. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly entertainment upgrade, this TV is worth considering.

Additional information