Vizio2021TV lineup: Quantum dot, voice control, improved SmartCast, etc.

Vizio2021TV lineup: Quantum dot, voice control, improved SmartCast, etc.

From the compact D Series to the premium P Series Quantum X, the entire Vizio lineup will be revamped for 2021. From enhancements like variable refresh rates and voice-activated remotes, the entire new Vizio TV lineup will look and feel better, with better app support, more powerful smart features, and the budget-conscious sensibilities that continue to make Vizio compete among the best TVs you can buy.

The only TV for which no upgrades have been announced is Vizio's OLED TV, but as it remains one of the best deals in the TV world, Vizio is probably safe to leave it at that without more than a software update.

Editor's Note: June 2, 2021 Vizio was contacted to clarify that these new TVs are being announced and released in 2021, but are officially known as the Vizio 2022 line.

Vizio's P-Series Quantum and Quantum X premium TVs are getting a number of updates; the P-Series Quantum comes in 65" and 75" screen sizes, while the P-Series Quantum X is only available in an 85" model.

With up to 1200 nits of brightness and as many as 210 individual dimming zones, image quality is enhanced with better contrast and tighter backlight control, resulting not only in improved HDR performance but also a more vibrant image overall. Vizio is proud to announce that the new P Series models offer Rec 2020 color gamut, claiming to offer up to 85% of the Rec 709 gamut, which is significantly higher than both the P3 wide gamut and the more standard Rec 709 gamut that we use in the majority of our TV testing. [HDMI 2.1 support and features such as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Automatic Low Latency Mode (ALLM), as well as AMD FreeSync Premium, which goes beyond variable refresh rates to deliver higher frame rates while including HDR support and wide color gamut Adaptive Sync Technology. In addition, the P Series offers a low lag time of 7 milliseconds, which Vizio promises will make it the ideal gaming TV.

Other enhancements to the P Series include an anti-glare screen that cuts reflections from ambient light and an IPS panel on the 75-inch model that offers wider viewing angles. This is all in addition to the addition of Vizio's latest IQ Ultra processor, the latest update to the Vizio SmartCast software, and the new Vizio Voice remote control.

The Vizio P-Series QUantum is priced at $1,399 for the 65-inch model and $2,199 for the 75-inch model; the Vizio P-Series Quantum X is limited to the 85-inch model, but pricing and availability have not yet been announced.

Many of the enhancements offered in Vizio's premium P-Series models are also included in the more affordable M-Series; the Vizio M-Series includes quantum dot technology for better color and brightness, and Vizio's latest IQ Active processor Available in sizes ranging from 50" to 75", the MQ6 and MQ7 models offer up to 700 nits of brightness and as many as 32 dimming zones for superior HDR performance.

AMD FreeSync also boosts gaming, along with HDMI 2.1 features such as variable refresh rates and automatic low-latency modes.

Finally, the Vizio M Series includes a height-adjustable stand that allows the soundbar to be placed under the TV, which also functions as a mounting bracket for the soundbar when the TV is wall mounted.

The Vizio M Series includes two models, the MQ6 Series and the MQ7 Series; the MQ7 offers peak brightness of up to 700 nits from a full array backlight and as many as 32 dimming zones. This is a far cry from what more upscale TVs offer, but it is a significant improvement over similarly priced TVs that do not differentiate their backlights, such as the less expensive MQ6 uses.

The more affordable MQ6 models start at $399 for a 43-inch screen size and top out at $999 for a 75-inch model; the MQ7 is slightly more expensive, starting at $749 for a 55-inch model and scaling up to $1,399 for the 75-inch version.

The value-oriented Vizio V Series may not have all the bells and whistles, but there is still a lot to love in this affordable category; with screen sizes ranging from 43 inches to 75 inches, the Vizio V Series is a low-cost, yet there 4K Smart TVs with features. It supports Dolby Vision HDR, and the full array backlight provides adequate brightness but no local dimming. HDMI 2.1 features such as variable refresh rates, as well as AMD FreeSync support, make this a good choice for an affordable gaming TV.

The V Series also features a brushed aluminum finish, revamping the basic plastic construction used on previous models. Finally, the V Series will feature Vizio's new voice remote control, and the remote will be equipped with a push-to-talk button that prevents false positives and unwanted recordings.

Vizio's V Series offers the most budget-friendly lineup of 4K smart TVs in the 2022 lineup, starting at just $339 for a 43-inch model.

The least expensive line of Vizio smart TVs is the Vizio d series, available in 24-, 32-, 40-, and 43-inch sizes with resolutions of 720 and 1080p. These compact TVs may not feature full 4K resolution, but they do include Vizio's Smartcast software, a full app lineup, and Vizio's latest IQ processor.

While the Vizio D3 makes up the bulk of the new D Series models, the Vizio D4 boasts a bezel-less design available in 24" and 32" sizes, perfect for the smallest corners of the house.

Finally, the D Series also offers VRR and AMD FreeSync, making it the perfect gaming TV when 4K resolution is not a requirement.

The compact Vizio D Series models start at 24 inches and sell for $139 and go all the way up to a 43-inch model that sells for $249. If 4K resolution is not required, it is the most affordable option.

The latest version of Vizio's SmartCast Smart TV software is the best version yet to grace Vizio TVs. It is especially popular with new apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus and Apple TV.

New apps recently added to SmartCast include Fox Now, CW, and Peacock; Vizio also offers SmartCast with Pluto TV, Hallmark, Newsie, Tastemade, and other content providers offering Vizio also boasts that SmartCast includes the best free content, including free channels from Pluto TV, Hallmark, Newsie, Tastemade, and other content providers.

SmartCast also has Google Chromecast built in and supports Apple AirPlay. These options make it easy to cast content from your phone to your TV and provide extended app support for services not yet supported by your TV. What can be enjoyed on a phone can also be enjoyed on a Vizio TV through Chromecast or AirPlay.

Perhaps the biggest change coming to the 2022 line of Vizio TVs is the transition to the new Vizio voice remote control for V, M, and P series TVs.

The new remotes have a sleeker, less cluttered look. The number buttons have been removed, the directional pad has been moved to a more comfortable position, and navigation with the SmartCast system should be much more intuitive. The biggest enhancement, however, is the addition of voice interaction. A microphone is built into the remote control, allowing users to search for content and command basic functions.

If you are not interested in speaking into the remote like the old CB microphone, you can also pair the Vizio TV with your current Amazon or Google smart speaker setup and use the same content search and voice control options hands-free .

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