If you prefer a dedicated streaming device or console, you can save some cash on an otherwise-modern television.
If you prefer a dedicated streaming device or console, you can save some cash on an otherwise-modern television.
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Modern smart TVs let you skip the streaming device, which is convenient, but they also come with their own issues, including privacy concerns and frequent updates. The Vizio Mini LED Quantum TV lets you cut out the rigamarole and just get straight to the HDMI ports. And right now, it’s discounted at Walmart, with the 65-inch model going for $358 ($40 off) and the 85-inch model going for $698 ($100 off).
Although Vizio’s Mini LED TV comes loaded with Vizio OS, you can bypass the TV’s host of agreements during setup. By pushing past the manufacturer’s warnings about “missing out” on smart TV features, you can disable the built-in operating system, letting you use your own streaming device like a Roku or Apple TV 4K without worrying about what data Vizio and Walmart might be collecting.
As for specs, the TV features quantum dots for full, vivid color and high brightness (our testing showed it can reach 936 nits when calibrated thanks to its mini-LED panel). There are some compromises, though, which is expected given the low price point. The IPS panel doesn’t have the best black levels, as you might see on more expensive sets, and there’s a touch of motion blur during faster scenes, which may also hurt its appeal for gamers. It also has three HDMI ports, but they’re only 2.0, although the screen only supports up to 4K at 60Hz, so it’s not detrimental to the experience.