Looking to upgrade your home entertainment system without breaking the bank? The VIZIO 65-inch V-Series (V655-H1, 2020) 4K UHD LED HDR Smart TV might be exactly what you’re looking for. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the standout features of this budget-friendly large-screen TV and see why it’s a great fit for streaming fans and casual gamers alike.
Design & Display Quality:
The VIZIO V655-H1 impresses right out of the box with its sleek, minimalistic design. The narrow bezels ensure that all attention is on the massive65-inch display, perfect for fully immersive viewing. Offering 4K UHD resolution, the TV delivers crisp visuals, vivid colors, and remarkable contrast. Whether you’re watching action-packed movies or nature documentaries, the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support take the viewing experience to the next level, providing enhanced brightness, shadow detail, and color depth.
Although the LED panel may not compete with OLEDs in terms of black levels, it’s still remarkably bright for its price. Watching HDR-supported content feels cinematic, allowing you to bring theater-quality visuals into your living room.
Smart TV Features:
What’s a modern TV without smart capabilities? The V-Series doesn’t disappoint. With Apple AirPlay and Chromecast built-in, streaming content from your smartphone or tablet is easy and seamless. Whether you’re binge-watching Netflix, catching up on YouTube, or sharing photos, the integration feels fluid. The VIZIO SmartCast platform provides access to a variety of streaming services, negating the need for external devices.
However, the SmartCast interface is a bit slower compared to other smart TV systems like Roku or Android TV, which might feel a bit frustrating at times.
Gaming Performance:
If you’re a gamer, the VIZIO V-Series offers great features at this price point. HDMI 2.1 ports and Auto Game Mode work together to provide a gaming setup that minimizes input lag and optimizes settings for smoother gameplay. While the refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, making it less ideal for serious gamers looking for ultra-smooth motion, it’s more than sufficient for casual gaming and next-gen console play. The low-latency performance is a strong point, making it a solid option for those who prioritize responsiveness.
Audio Quality:
One area where the V65-H1 could improve is sound. Like most slim TVs, its built-in speakers don’t offer the depth or clarity you’d want for a fully immersive experience, especially in larger rooms. Adding a soundbar or external speakers will definitely enhance your viewing and gaming sessions, offering a more robust audio experience.
Setup & Ease of Use:
Setting up this TV is a breeze. Whether you opt to wall-mount or use the included stand, installation is straightforward. The remote is user-friendly, and with voice control compatibility via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, navigating through menus is simple and hands-free.
Pros:
- Large 65-inch display with 4K UHD resolution and Dolby Vision for stunning picture quality.
- Apple AirPlay, Chromecast built-in, and SmartCast for easy streaming.
- HDMI 2.1 and Auto Game Mode offer excellent gaming performance with low latency.
- Affordable price point for a TV packed with modern features.
Cons:
- Built-in speakers lack depth; a soundbar is recommended for better audio.
- 60Hz refresh rate may not satisfy hardcore gamers or viewers who prefer the smoothest motion.
- SmartCast can be slower compared to other platforms.
Conclusion:
The VIZIO 65-inch V-Series (V655-H1, 2020) 4K UHD Smart TV offers exceptional value, especially for its size and feature set. From impressive visual performance to solid gaming features, it’s a great choice for families and casual gamers looking for an affordable yet feature-rich upgrade. While the audio could use a boost and the SmartCast interface may be slower, these are minor issues considering the overall package. Whether you’re a movie buff or a gamer, this TV is a fantastic option for its price.