VIZIO D-Series 24" Smart TV Review: Conditional Buy Verdict
Starting with a surprising trend, the VIZIO D-Series 24-inch Full HD Smart TV (2022 Model) earns a conditional 7.8/10 from cross-platform user feedback. While marketed as “America’s Smart TV” with gaming-ready features and crystal-clear picture, real-world reports show a split between those who value its compact size and affordability, and those frustrated by sluggish performance and weak audio.
Quick Verdict: Conditional Buy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crisp 1080p picture quality for size | Tinny, hollow speaker sound |
| Compact form factor fits kitchens, bedrooms, RVs | Slow app loading and laggy interface |
| Affordable price point | Limited app installation, reliant on casting |
| Good gaming performance with low input lag | Reports of freezing, Wi-Fi drops |
| Easy setup and multiple connectivity options | Questionable long-term durability |
| VIZIO WatchFree+ offers 260+ free channels | Remote control design frustrations |
| Compatible with Apple AirPlay & Chromecast | Occasional power-on issues |
Claims vs Reality
VIZIO advertises “picture perfection” through a full array LED backlight and an IQ processor delivering “superior picture processing.” Users largely agree the image is sharp and detailed for a 24-inch screen. A verified buyer on Amazon noted: “The picture is excellent! Small screen adds to high quality images, and the menu has many options for gaming, cinema, vivid, etc.” Consumer Reports testing confirmed “color accuracy was excellent… brightness level was good, making it a suitable choice for most rooms.”
However, the marketing emphasis on “powerful connectivity” and “stream faster” through SmartCast doesn’t match all experiences. Reddit user dang wrote: “The processor is slow — the apps launch very slowly. Also, WiFi picks up only 2G.” Multiple Best Buy reviewers mentioned lag and sluggish response, with some resorting to adding a Roku device to bypass SmartCast delays.
Gaming “amplified” with AMD FreeSync and VRR is another claim. Here, feedback aligns more closely. Consumer Reports found input lag under 10ms at 60Hz, and Reddit user crome said: “I experience very little latency while playing games… perfect for Zoom calls.” This suggests the gaming promise is real, especially for casual console or PC use.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
The most consistent praise centers around compact size and picture quality. For small bedrooms, kitchens, RVs, or trailers, users find the 24-inch form factor ideal. Reddit user anniec7 shared: “Fits perfect in the designated spot… didn’t get the sound bar because we don’t watch it that much.” Amazon reviewers echoed this, noting the TV is “lightweight and easily stored” for occasional use.
Picture clarity is another highlight. Consumer Reports rated HD picture quality as “very good,” while Reddit user unorthodox said: “Being small at 24 inches and still 1080p makes the image quality crisp.” The matte screen finish also drew praise for reducing glare in bright environments, making it suitable for kitchens or sunlit rooms.
Ease of setup is frequently mentioned. A verified buyer on Amazon reported: “Easy to set up. Great picture and easy to use.” Even those who experienced software lag noted initial installation was straightforward, with preloaded apps like Netflix and YouTube ready to go.
Common Complaints
Audio quality tops the complaint list. Descriptions such as “tinny,” “hollow,” and “no bass” appear across Amazon, Best Buy, and Consumer Reports. Reddit user jackrabbit77 explained: “Poor audio… tried to get around the poor audio with a set of external speakers. It worked except I could not control the volume with the TV remote.” This makes the set less appealing for movie nights without external audio gear.
Sluggish performance is another recurring frustration. Reddit user amd609 noted: “The operating system is somewhat antiquated… had to buy a Roku so there wasn’t a ton of lag time issues.” Others reported freezes during app use, requiring unplugging the TV to reset.
Durability concerns emerged in long-term reviews. Reddit user sarge wrote: “This is the 2nd VIZIO TV that I had that only lasted about 2 1/2 years… the picture became unviewable.” Similar reports mention horizontal lines appearing after a year or two, raising questions about longevity.
Divisive Features
SmartCast functionality splits opinion. Some appreciate casting from phones via AirPlay or Chromecast, while others dislike the inability to install additional apps directly. An Amazon reviewer cautioned: “You cannot download your own apps… I have to watch sports subscriptions by Chromecast streaming from my phone or iPad.”
Gaming features also divide users. Casual gamers value low input lag and FreeSync, but more demanding players may find 60Hz limiting for fast-paced titles. While marketed heavily for “next-gen consoles,” the performance ceiling is clearly defined by its refresh rate and panel size.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot and Best Buy narratives show a pattern of hardware issues emerging after warranty expiration. Users describe lines appearing on the display, freezing, and power-on failures within 2–3 years. Reddit user zakiya noted: “After about six months… the screen would freeze/lag… now there is a blue horizontal line across the lower half of my screen.”
On the positive side, some owners report years of trouble-free operation. An Amazon buyer updated their review: “Bought this TV in July 2019 and it works as well now (March 2022) as it did when brand new.” This variability suggests QC inconsistencies, making extended warranties worth considering.
Alternatives
Competitors mentioned in user discussions include Insignia’s 24-inch Fire TV models and Westinghouse Roku TVs. Insignia offers faster Fire TV OS integration and broader app availability, but some users find their build quality lower. Westinghouse Roku TVs provide smoother app performance but may lack the same gaming-specific features like FreeSync.
For those prioritizing audio, pairing any small TV with a compact soundbar — such as VIZIO’s own V-Series 2.0 — dramatically improves sound without taking much space.
Price & Value
Current market prices hover between $119–$138 new, with renewed units sometimes dipping below $100. eBay listings show resale values around $40–$90 depending on condition, indicating modest depreciation.
Community buying tips include waiting for seasonal sales or bundling with a soundbar. Reddit user jali_to_76 suggested buying when “you can get it for under $120 — great value for a kitchen or guest room setup.”
FAQ
Q: Can you add apps to the VIZIO D-Series directly?
A: No, app installation is limited to preloaded SmartCast apps. Additional apps require casting from a phone, tablet, or compatible device.
Q: How is the sound quality without a soundbar?
A: Most users describe it as tinny with no bass. Fine for casual viewing in small rooms, but inadequate for immersive experiences.
Q: Is it good for gaming?
A: For casual console or PC gaming, yes — low input lag and FreeSync help. The 60Hz refresh rate limits performance for competitive play.
Q: Does it work with Alexa or Google Assistant?
A: Yes, it supports both via connected smart devices, allowing voice commands for basic controls.
Q: Can it be wall-mounted?
A: Yes, it’s VESA compliant (100x100mm), making it easy to mount and save space.
Final Verdict
Buy if you need a compact, affordable 1080p TV for a bedroom, kitchen, RV, or as a secondary monitor — and are willing to supplement audio with external speakers. Avoid if you expect fast app navigation, robust built-in sound, or multi-year durability under heavy daily use.
Pro tip from the community: Pair it with a budget soundbar and a Roku or Fire Stick to bypass SmartCast lag while keeping the crisp picture and small footprint users love.
