VIZIO VQD43M-0801 TV: Is Quantum 4K HDR the Ultimate Gaming Experience or Just a Trendy Buzzword?

cullypants

New member
When it comes to the world of smart TVs, the VIZIO 43-inch Quantum 4K QLED HDR Smart TV is stepping into a crowded market, but it raises a crucial question: Is a mid-range TV with flashy specs enough to justify its place in your living room? This model packs in features like Dolby Vision HDR, WiFi 6 for smoother streaming, and the promise of 120fps gaming support, but does it really deliver on the hype?

With a built-in ecosystem designed to pull you into the VIZIO world—complete with app management and free channels—one has to wonder if the convenience and connectivity are worth the trade-offs that might come with a proprietary system. In a time when smart TVs can feel like they’re locked into an ecosystem, can this VIZIO model offer the freedom and performance that both casual viewers and serious gamers crave? Let’s dive into the details and see if this TV is the upgrade you’ve been looking for or just another shiny gadget in a sea of options.

Spec​

Parameter
VIZIO VQD43M-0801 TV​
Picture​
VIZIOVQD43M-0801TV.jpg
Screen Size​
43 Inches​
Reference Price​
$279.55​
Model Year​
2024​
Specific Uses​
Home entertainment, Gaming, Streaming movies and shows​
Built-In Media​
Voice Remote, Power Cable, Stand​
Highlight​
With VIZIO Account, access VIZIO Home with apps built right in, manage your app subscriptions, watch free channels, and much more. A VIZIO Account is required for Smart TV functionality and product updates.
4K QLED HDR brings every scene to life with an abundance of Quantum Color, enhanced HDR Dolby Vision, and dazzling brightness from any seat in the room with Wide Viewing Angle.
WiFi 6 supports better streaming and gaming performance in a congested Smart Home when compared to WiFi 4/5.
Connect to your console or PC and unleash the power of up to 120fps at 1080p, as well as access an integrated gaming menu that instantly powers on.
Built-in VIZIO Home lets you instantly access all your favorite apps and more. Enjoy hundreds of free channels and thousands of free On Demand titles with the built-in WatchFree+ app.
Operating System​
Android​
Internet Applications​
Netflix, HBO Max, Disney Plus, Prime Video, Apple TV​
Remote Control​
Bluetooth​
Controller Type​
Remote Control​
Control Method​
App​
Aspect Ratio​
16:9​
Display Technology​
QLED​
Screen Finish​
Flat​
Resolution​
4K​
Refresh Rate​
60 Hz, 120fps @ 1080p PC Gaming​
HDR Format​
Dolby Vision​
Backlight Technology​
LED​
Backlight Setting​
[MULTIVALUED_NOT_OBTAINABLE]​
Backlight Configuration​
Direct-Lit​
Picture Enhancement​
Quantum Dot technology​
Motion Enhancement​
[Assumed] Motion Enhancement Technology Present​
Audio Channels​
2.0 or 2.1​
Audio Input​
HDMI
Speaker Description​
Speaker(s)​
Video Encoding​
H.265 (HEVC), H.264​
Screen Mirroring​
AirPlay 2, Google Cast​
Water Resistance​
Not Water Resistant​
Tuner Type​
QLED​
Other Features​
Built-in apps with VIZIO Home, Apple AirPlay, Dolby Vision HDR, WiFi 6, Voice Assistance Integration, 120fps @1080p, ThinFrame Design, Hundreds of free channels, Google Chromecast, Bluetooth Headphone compatibility, Voice Remote​
Mount Standard​
200 x 200 mm​
Connectivity Technology​
Wi-Fi​
Wireless Technology​
Wi-Fi​
Usb Ports​
3​
USB3.0 Ports​
1​
HDMI Ports​
3​
Signal Format​
HDMI
Sharing Direction​
Mobile to TV​
D x W x H​
8.53"D x 37.74"W x 24.44"H​
Item Weight​
25.42 Pounds​

System Experience​

Setting up the TV was surprisingly straightforward, which I really appreciated. I didn’t have to create a Vizio account if I didn’t want to use their smart features, and I managed to connect my FireTV 4K Max stick with ease. This made the whole experience much smoother and more enjoyable, as I could jump right into watching my favorite shows without any unnecessary complications.

Viewing Experience​

When it comes to picture quality, I have to say, I’m genuinely impressed. The colors pop and the clarity is sharp, which enhances my viewing experience significantly. Whether I’m streaming a movie or playing games, the visuals are crisp and engaging. It’s a joy to watch, and I find myself getting lost in the vibrant images on screen.

Audio Experience​

I’ve paired the TV with a soundbar, so I haven’t tested the internal speakers extensively. However, the sound quality has been solid with my current setup. I can easily connect my Bluetooth headphones when I want to enjoy a movie without disturbing anyone else, which is a nice touch. Overall, it feels like a well-rounded experience.

Other Experience​

One feature that stands out to me is the automatic framerate adjustment when switching between gaming and regular viewing. It’s incredibly convenient and adds to the overall user experience. Though there are some quirks with the interface speed and occasional connectivity issues, these haven’t overshadowed my enjoyment of the TV. I did notice the lack of a viewing history, which feels like a missed opportunity for convenience, but I’ve adapted to it.

Conclusion​

Pros:
The pros really shine through in this TV. The picture quality is vibrant and clear, making it a delight to watch anything from gaming to movies. The automatic adjustments for framerate are a huge plus, especially for a gamer like me. I also love the flexibility of using Bluetooth headphones for a more personal listening experience and the seamless integration with AirPlay and Chromecast.

Cons:
On the downside, the interface can be a bit sluggish at times, which is frustrating when I’m trying to navigate quickly. I also wish there were more manual controls, particularly regarding framerate settings. The gimmicky feature that allows using a console remote hasn’t worked as I’d hoped, leaving me a bit disappointed in that regard.

Overall Evaluation:
Overall, I’m quite happy with my purchase. While it has its flaws, the stunning picture quality and user-friendly features make it a worthwhile investment, especially for my gaming needs. I might consider upgrading in the future if these issues persist, but for now, it suits my requirements perfectly. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly TV that performs well for gaming and casual viewing, I genuinely recommend giving this one a shot.
 

69Shelby1969

New member
So, I got this extra TV, right? But guess what? It didn’t even come with an HDMI cable! I spent ages on the phone with the cable company, and in the end, I had to send some back. Seriously, it’s not exactly easy for older folks to figure out. Super frustrating!
 

mvppaulo

New member
I just swapped out my Fire TV for this bigger Vizio so it’ll match up with the one in the living room, and honestly, it’s amazing! I can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner.
 

mvppaulo

New member
I was on the hunt for a smaller TV for my home gym, and I finally found the one! It's just the right size, and the best part? I can cast stuff straight from my phone—like YouTube and Netflix. Exactly what I needed!
 

OneTimeSE

New member
Awesome pic! I’ve been binge-watching a ton of music videos lately, and I’ve heard that there’s no burn-in on QLEDs, which is a win! Plus, it came super well packaged. I’ll definitely update my review after I’ve had it for about a year!
 
Honestly, this is exactly what I was looking for in a TV to hook up to my computer for some extra screen space and binge-watching. The picture quality is sharp, the sound is solid, and it’s super responsive. Plus, you can just switch off all those annoying smart features! I mean, that's a game changer. I haven’t come across any other TV that lets you turn off everything like this one does. It’s perfect if you want to use it more like a “business TV.” Love it!
 
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