Vizio’s 86-Inch Screen: Big Picture, Big Sound, Big Value?

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Vizio 86-inch 4K Smart TV and 2.1 Soundbar Review: A Big Screen for the Budget-Minded, But With Trade-offs

The allure of a giant screen TV is undeniable. But the reality of finding one that balances size, performance, and price can be a real headache. Vizio’s 86-inch 4K Smart TV promises an immersive experience at a relatively affordable $1,000 MSRP. However, like many budget TVs, it comes with compromises. In this review, we’ll delve into the ups and downs of this massive TV and its accompanying 2.1 soundbar.

First Impressions: A Mammoth Presence

The Vizio 86-inch 4K Smart TV (V4K86C-0804) is a beast. It’s not just big, it’s mammoth. Standing almost 17 inches deep at its thickest point, it requires a substantial TV stand or dedicated wall mount. The sheer size alone is an immediate attention-grabber, and its presence in a room is undeniable.

Design and UI: Minimalism and Simplicity

Vizio’s design philosophy is all about simplicity. The remote is spartan but functional, and the TV itself sports a minimalist aesthetic. The menus are straightforward and easy to navigate, a welcome change from the convoluted systems found on some other TV brands. Vizio’s updated UI lets you access your favorite apps quickly, with clear folders organizing your options and a streamlined experience overall.

Connectivity: A Significant Limitation

This is where the Vizio 86-inch TV’s budget nature becomes apparent. It lacks an ethernet port, a major oversight for a TV of this size. While a dedicated ethernet connection is a luxury for many, it’s a crucial feature for anyone experiencing inconsistent Wi-Fi in their home. For those dealing with spotty internet, the 86-inch Vizio’s reliance on Wi-Fi alone could be a dealbreaker.

Furthermore, the TV only has three HDMI ports, which is extremely limited for modern multimedia needs. Vizio recommends plugging its soundbar into the eARC HDMI port, leaving you with only two ports for other devices. This lack of sufficient ports necessitates careful planning and might force you to make compromises on your setup.

Picture Quality: DLED Delivers, But Falls Short of High-End

The 86-inch Vizio uses DLED (direct LED) technology, which delivers a solid 4K experience but won’t match the contrast and color accuracy of higher-end mini-LED or OLED displays. While initial settings may require some adjustment, you can achieve a cinematic viewing experience using the Calibrated mode for most content and Game Mode for console gaming.

The black levels are decent for a DLED TV, but they lack the deep blacks you’d find on more premium panels. Similarly, viewing angles are restricted, meaning you’ll need to sit directly in front of the TV for optimal color and clarity. Despite these limitations, the 86-inch size does make a difference, making content more immersive and easier to enjoy from a distance.

Gaming Performance: Smooth But Not Spectacular

The Vizio 86-inch TV delivers a smooth gaming experience at maximum frame rates for both PS5 and Xbox Series X. The colors are vibrant and gameplay is fluid, making for an enjoyable, if unremarkable, gaming experience.

Vizio 2.1 Soundbar: An Affordable Addition But Not a Game Changer

The included SV210M 2.1 Soundbar is designed to complement Vizio’s TVs. It’s easy to install with the Quickfit system and instantly enhances the audio experience, offering a boost in bass that’s definitely an improvement over the TV’s built-in speakers.

However, the 2.1 soundbar lack the nuanced and immersive audio you might expect from a larger-sized TV. The sound is decent overall, but it doesn’t quite match the scale of the 86-inch screen. If you want to truly maximize the viewing experience, you may want to consider investing in Vizio’s 5.1 Soundbar SE for a more expansive audio experience.

Overall Verdict: A Big Screen for Budget-Minded Viewers with Trade-offs

The Vizio 86-inch 4K Smart TV is a compelling option for those seeking a large screen at an affordable price. It delivers a solid picture and a simple user experience, and the 2.1 soundbar offers a decent audio upgrade.

However, its limitations, including lack of ethernet port and limited HDMI ports, will likely cause frustration for some users. Ultimately, this massive TV is best suited for those with ample space and a forgiving attitude towards its shortcomings.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

  • Massive 86-inch screen for an immersive viewing experience
  • Affordable price point compared to other large-screen TVs
  • Simple and user-friendly UI
  • Good picture quality for a direct LED TV
  • Easy-to-install 2.1 soundbar

Cons:

  • Lack of an ethernet port can be a significant limitation for those with unreliable Wi-Fi
  • Limited HDMI ports restrict connectivity options
  • Restricted viewing angles mean optimal viewing experience is only from directly in front
  • 2.1 soundbar is a decent upgrade over built-in speakers but lack the immersive audio of higher-end soundbars

Final Thoughts

The Vizio 86-inch 4K Smart TV is a solid option for those who prioritize screen size and affordability. But it’s crucial to understand its limitations before making a purchase. If you’re willing to work around the lack of ethernet and limited ports, the 86-inch Vizio offers an immersive experience that’s hard to beat for the price.

Article Reference

Alex Parker
Alex Parker
Alex Parker is a tech-savvy writer who delves into the world of gadgets, science, and digital culture. Known for his engaging style and detailed reviews, Alex provides readers with a deep understanding of the latest trends and innovations in the digital world.