Vizio M-series vs. V-series: Which Vizio TV should I Buy?

Over the last two decades, Vizio has been on the front line in producing dependable, great, and reasonably affordable television screens. With every series they produce, more improvements and specs are added to give their consumers everything they would be looking for in television. In this article, we will be looking deep into the Vizio M-series Vs. Vizio V-series.

Most features and specs of Vizio M and Vizio V are quite similar. This is because the same manufacturer produces them. However, these two TVs have notable differences. The M-series is a step up from the V-series. Vizio M-series has advancements in performance, settings, and costs more than Vizio V. These two TV series do not offer premium high-end television. However, you will have almost all the features provided by the big TV brands.

Vizio TVs come with screen sizes ranging from 43” to 75”. However, the V-series may be found in other sizes. We will discuss these two TV series in detail, starting with the features of each. By the end of this article, you will have a simple time determining which TV to buy and why.

Vizio M-series Vs. Vizio V-series: Comparison between the two TVs

Since 2002 Vizio has been producing TVs with the same goal: To provide their customers with a versatile experience at a fair price within the same brand. Vizio M-series and V-series are both brands from 2021 and beyond. Within the same series, you will find different ranges of TVs like the M6 and M7 of 2021 and V5 and V6.

Most of these products within a series offer different variants in size range, hardware, and performance. The table below takes a quick glance at the two Vision products in terms of watching experience.

Specification	Vizio V-Series	Vizio M-Series
Movies	Good enough: Amazing contrast ratio and black uniformity	Excellent: Amazing contrast ratio, good upscaling without judder, perfect blacks
TV shows	Good: Good upscaling, good black uniformity, and gradient handling.	Excellent: Amazing reflection handling, and brightness of several contents in the smart cast.
Games	Good: Better contrast ratio, low input lag. Some blur in scenes.	Excellent: Good response time and low input lag. No blur in scenes.
PC monitors	Good: Average response time support 4:4:4 in Chroma.	Excellent: Good response time and low input lag.
HDR movies	Good: Amazing black uniformity, poor brightness.	Excellent: Amazing black uniformity and vivid color.
Sports	Good: Mediocre brightness and smoothness	Excellent: Amazing reflection handling and handles motion with clarity
HDR gaming	Good: Low lag, does not have stutter and judder effectively.	Excellent: Low lag, amazing color gamut, and also support VRR.

The table above is just an overview term of the watching experience. We will look further into the main difference between the two in detail.

Vizio M-series Vs. Vizio V-series: Main differences

Specification	Vizio M	Vizio V
Price	$399.99-$999.99	$339.99-$899.99
Panel technology	Quantum dot-wide color technology	Classic LED VA panel
Image processor	Premium IQ Active processor	Premium IQ Active Processor
Motion technology	13-18millisecond transition	15-20+ millisecond to transition
Picture quality	Better	Mediocre
Sound quality	Mediocre-average sound quality. Lacks bass properties	Mediocre-average sound quality. Lacks bass properties
Operating system	Smart cast OS	Smart cast OS
Connectivity	Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE	Wi-Fi

Vizio TVs Price

Among the notable difference between the two Vizio TVs, the Vizio M-series is slightly more expensive compared to the Vizio V-series. However, the difference ranges from $50-to $80 between the two.

The list below shows the different prices of each TV in terms of size.

Vizio MQ6 prices;

• 43-inch (M43Q6-J), MSRP $399.99
• 50-inch (M50Q6-J), MSRP $529.99
• 55-inch (M55Q6-J), MSRP $579.99
• 65-inch (M65Q6-J), MSRP $679.99
• 70-inch (M70Q6-J), MSRP $849.99
• 75-inch (M75Q6-J), MSRP $999.99

Vizio V5 prices;

• 43-inch (V435-J), MSRP $339.99
• 50-inch (V505-J), MSRP $399.99
• 55-inch (V555-J), MSRP $499.99
• 58-inch (V585-J), MSRP $529.99
• 65-inch (V655-J), MSRP $599.99
• 70-inch (V705-J), MSRP $699.99
• 75-inch (V755-J), MSRP $899.99

Prices within the two Vizio series might differ depending on the type.

Panel technology

The type of technology used in designing television affects the color spectrum and brightness range delivered. So, how different is the technology used in the Vizio M-series and the Vizio V-series?

Vizio M-series panels have a quantum dot-wide color technology, also identified as QLED. The technology delivers high peak brightness and a wide spectrum of colors. This is way better than what the Vizio V-series delivers since it has a classic LED VA panel.

 In terms of panel technology, the M-series takes the prize.

Image processor

All TVs from Vizio use a premium IQ Active processor. This processor can process solid pictures and can have 4K upscaling features. Both M and V-series can enhance contrast and can reduce noise artifacts by the use of the multi-step algorithm.

Motion Technology

The response time determines how long it takes to transition between scenes. If the response time is high, some harsh lines are visible between unpleasant scenes. How do the M-series and V-series fair in this aspect?

Response time in M-series TVs differs depending on a specific unit. Most models from the M-series take between 13-18milliseconds for scenes to transition fully. This motion technology gets the work done. However, you can notice some blur when watching fast-moving scenes or playing games on these TVs.

V-series, on the other hand, takes a bit longer for scenes to transition fully. The blur in this model is too conspicuous and very annoying. Imagine waiting for a period of darkness to pass while watching your favorite movie. It might even be impossible to play HDR games due to the long duration of dark scenes.

Again M-series takes the win-in-motion technology.

Picture Quality

How clear an image appears matters when choosing a TV model. It would be better you pay more for a TV than get mediocre images. Which offers the best picture quality between the M-series and V-series?

We will take different parameters to help us determine which TV model takes the win in picture quality. 

Contrast Ratio

The contrast ratio in the M-series again differs depending on the unit. However, all models in this lineup offer an excellent native contrast ratio. In this series, blacks are always resonant and inky. M-series TVs have a local dimming setting that can be used to improve the black levels when watching in different environments.

Vizio V-series models also offer an impressive native contrast ratio with deep blacks. The only difference between the M-series and the V-series is that the V-series does not have a local dimming setting. You cannot, therefore, adjust the contrast ratio.

Local Dimming

This feature is responsible for balancing the blacks on the TV depending on the environment. Among the two series, only Visio M models come with this setting. Despite it having this feature, it is mediocre. Visio V does not have a local dimming setting.

Peak brightness

M-series offers better peak brightness values than V-series models. These values are decent in SDR and HDR. The brightness is enough to combat some combat. However, the peak brightness values cannot compete with TVs like Samsung and Sony.

On the other hand, the Vizio V-series offers the worst peak brightness there is. Although the values differ in units, it’s still not enough to overcome any glare. With this model, you get disappointing Peak brightness in SDR and HDR, and the images won’t be bright as expected.

Color

The latest Vizio M-series has a fantastic color gamut and color volume. This model achieves full coverage in DCI P3 and Tec 2020 cold space. M-series TVs are excellent in displaying saturated and dark colors. They, however, struggle with bright colors in LCD TVs.

On the other hand, V-series models have an okay color gamut and overall color volume. The color space coverage in DCI P3 is amazing but limited in Rec 2020. A huge difference between the V-series and the M-series is that the V-series can display dark colors but struggle with other primary colors.

Viewing Angle

If you are looking for a TV with a great viewing angle between the two series, the M-series is better. LED VA panels generally have a louse viewing angle which even gets worse when in V-series TVs. This model has loose image accuracy and image vibrancy.

Reflection

Both M-Series and V-series TVs have a semi-gloss screen finish. Although the finish is less preferred, they offer solid visibility, decent reflection handling, anti-flare properties, and good ambiance in dark rooms. However, they struggle when placed under a direct light source or window.

Under all these parameters, M-series TVs are in the lead. Therefore, M-series TVs have a better picture quality than V-series models.

Sound quality

Both the M-series and V-series offer a mediocre-average sound quality depending on a specific unit. They provide a well-balanced sound but lack bass effect. You will therefore need to use a subwoofer or soundbar for extra balance on the sound.

Operating system

Visio TVs use an undistinguishable Smart Cast Operating System. Although this operating system is pretty average compared to other smart TVs, it is easy to use. There are quite different versions of Smart Cast. Some of these versions can make your TV lag behind.

Connectivity

Another feature that is quite similar between the two Vizio TV series is the connectivity. Both TV series are low-budget when it comes to connectivity. However, the V-series slightly lags. We will use three different parameters to bring out the difference.

Input

Both M-series TVs and V-Series TVs have amazing low input lag. They also have an input lag is about 11 milliseconds on all supported resolutions and a Low Latency feature which is ideal for gamers. 

The only difference is in the number of HDMI inputs, whereas the M-series has four ports and 1 USB input port. V-series TVs, on the other hand, V-series has three HDMI input ports and 1 USB port.

Voice assistance

The newer models of M-series TVs come with more advanced voice assistance properties. The M-series model from 2021 utilizes the in-built microphone to offer basic voice commands, change inputs, open apps, and other voice assistance requirements on an intelligent TV. This new Smart TV allows you to set up voice control through Amazon’s Alexa or Google Home.

Unfortunately, V-series models lack most of this smart voice assistance.

Wireless Technology

Both M-series TVs and V-series TVs offer standard wireless technology, including 2.4 GH, 5GHz Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth LE. Unfortunately, V-series models do not allow full Bluetooth connection.

Vizio M-Series Vs. V-Series: Which should I choose?

Based on all the differences described above, we can deduce that M-Series TVs are way better than the V-series. Here are some of the parameters where the M-series takes the lead  compared to its counterpart;

• Panel technology
• Motion technology
• Picture quality
• Sound quality

Parameters where these two TV series are similar include;

• Image processor
• Connectivity
• Operating system

V-series only beats the M-series in terms of price. However, there is only a very small difference of around $50-$80.

M-series TVs are also so excellent for;

• HDR gaming
• Sports
• TV shows
• HDR movies
• Movies and
• PC monitors

There are different models within the same series. These models also come in different sizes. So, before you decide to buy either of the TV, read the reviews from other customers. You will get to know what to expect once you buy the TV.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Are Vizio M-series TVs worth it?
  There is no good way to enjoy technology than having a device that offers both contemporary premium feeling at a very fair price and fewer additional devices required to enable connectivity. This is what Vizio M-series offers.
  Vizio M-series TVs offer Quantum 4k experience with the ability to display over one billion bright colors. These TVs do not only concentrate on brightness. You will also get over 32 local dimming settings on your TV, giving you the ability to balance the contrast ratio depending on the room you are watching in.
  Aside from the colors, you get to experience a Dolby Atmos audio quality and DTs Virtual X. Despite these amazing sound channels, M-series TVs lack bass properties. You will therefore need an external soundbar or Subwoofer for bass balance. All these you are getting for about $399.99-$999.99 depending on the size and the particular unit.
  
• Where are Vizio TVs made and By Who?
  Vizio TVs are designed in California, USA but made in China, Vietnam, Thailand, Mexico, and Taiwan.
  The reason why Vizio TVs are not made in the USA is that the manufacturing is outsourced to companies like:
  BOE, Foxconn, Innolux, KIE, Tonly, TPV, and Zylux
  These companies purchase the components used to make the TVs and assemble them in the reactive companies ready for sale.

• Do Vizio TVs last longer?
  Most Vizio TVs last up to 7years. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can increase the lifespan of your TV to last up to 10 years.
  Since all these TVs use Smart Cast which is an operating system used in smart TVs, you should always upgrade your OS after every new upgrade is available. Scan for viruses that might attack your TV to prevent your TV from Dying before it has served you the right time.
  Use TV guards to prevent your TV from short-circuiting in case of issues with power.

Conclusion

By now, I hope Our Vizio M-Series Vs. V-series guide has helped you decide which smart TV you are going to buy. To help you catch up.

M-series TVs models are way better compared to V-series TVs. This TV comes with a 4K resolution with over one billion colors. It also comes with a local dimming setting that helps balance the over 32 dark colors range.

Newer models of M-series TVs come with smart voice assistance. The inbuilt microphone enables you to open apps, change inputs, ask time or weather, and operate the basic voice commands. You can also set up google home or Alexa for easy use.

Vizio TVs are designed in California but outsourced to different companies in China, Thailand, Taiwan, Mexico, and Vietnam. You will still get the premium features other TV brands offer at very insane prices.

The difference in price between M-series TVs and V-series TVs is around $50-$80. I would therefore recommend you to buy the Visio M-series since you will get everything the TV has to offer in better quality.

Since these TVs come in different units and sizes, check the specification of each and read customers’ reviews before you buy a TV to avoid future frustrations.