Onn and Vizio offer affordable big-screen 4K TV options, but which budget brand should you choose? Learn how they compare on price, size, smart capabilities, gaming, sound and most importantly, display quality.
Introduction
For shoppers seeking a new television on a budget, Vizio and Onn have emerged as two of the most popular brands to consider. Their TVs deliver 4K picture quality and robust smart capabilities at wallet-friendly price points.
But for buyers setting out on their search, a key question arises – which affordable TV brand reigns supreme? Vizio TVs offer a stronger reputation in display performance and promise more full-featured connected streaming. On the other hand, Onn provides unbeatable prices for a quality big-screen experience through Walmart’s retail clout.
To help buyers navigate the decision between these value-focused contenders, we’ve put together an in-depth comparison guide for 2024. We’ll break down how Vizio and Onn 4K smart TV models stack up across the most important categories:
- Picture quality
- Features and smart platform
- Audio performance
- Gaming prowess
- Price and value
- Size range
- Design
We’ll also spotlight key factors to weigh as you evaluate both brands. Equipped with this head-to-head analysis, you’ll be able to confidently choose which affordable 4K TV best ticks all your boxes.
Picture Quality and Display Tech Comparison
The most vital element separating any two televisions remains picture performance. On paper, Vizio touts more advanced display specs and technology across its various model lines. But how do the images stack up side-by-side?
Picture Accuracy and Color
Through hands-on testing in real viewing environments, Vizio slightly edges Onn for color precision and contrast. Vizio’s mid-range M-Series Quantum 4K models showed richer, more accurate blacks and balanced color reproduction when streaming movies or TV shows.
However, Onn 4K UHD screens still deliver pleasing HD and 4K picture quality for everyday viewing. From bright living rooms to home cinemas, both brands capably handle SDR and HDR content across sources like cable TV, disc players and streaming apps.
Backlighting and Dimming Zones
One display advantage for many Vizio collections comes through full-array local dimming (FALD). With FALD backlighting, the TV can precisely control light output across zones to boost contrast. More dimming zones translate to better distinction of dark and bright areas in a scene.
For instance, the mid-range Vizio M7 Series Quantum packs 90 local dimming zones with quantum dot color. Onn sets utilize direct LED backlighting without FALD capabilities. Lacking zone dimming control, Onn models can struggle to match Vizio’s depth and vibrancy for HDR movies or shows.
Peak Brightness
In peak brightness measurements, most current Onn and Vizio 4K televisions land in a similar range of around 300 to 400 nits for HDR content. Bright highlights truly pop on either brand.
Vizio’s higher-end offerings like the P-Series Quantum X 75 inch measured over 1,100 nits in objective lab testing. But for their cheaper 4K sets, Onn and Vizio deliver satisfying brightness.
Viewing Angles
With LCD displays, both brands exhibit degradation in color and contrast when viewed from sharp sideways angles. This issue becomes more noticeable on larger screen sizes.
OLED televisions maintain image accuracy even from wide perspectives. But the technology has not reached aggressive pricing yet. Between Onn and Vizio LED TVs, they offer similar off-angle viewing experiences.
Motion Handling
For sports, video games and action flicks, Vizio integrates quality motion smoothing technology like Clear Action into models starting from its budget V-Series. Onn sets currently lack any advanced motion features.
Fast motion can spur visible blurring on Onn TVs. Vizio motion processing helps sharpen clarity for moving objects. But sensitivity to the “soap opera effect” varies among users.
Smart Platforms and Connectivity
Onboard Streaming and Apps
Both companies load their 4K television lines with built-in smart platforms that provide access to leading streaming services. However, Vizio’s SmartCast system pulls ahead in capability.
Packed with Chromecast abilities, SmartCast makes sending video to the TV simple from thousands of mobile apps. Voice commands through Google Assistant or Alexa devices allow hands-free navigation. Compared to Onn’s streaming interface through Roku or Android TV, Vizio touts smoother performance and more extensive platform updates.
In terms of channel selection, Vizio and Onn sets come equipped with apps for platforms including:
- Netflix
- Disney+
- HBO Max
- Prime Video
- Hulu
- YouTube
Plus plenty more top options. Vizio provides one-stop access to search across services as well.
Gaming Connectivity
For connecting the latest consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, both brands meet table stakes with 4K resolution, HDR and low input lag.
Vizio also enables key gaming features absent from Onn models today. AMD FreeSync support and 120Hz variable refresh rate (VRR) optimize for smooth gameplay by syncing the screen refresh rate with the console’s graphical output. Auto low latency mode (ALLM) automatically enables game mode.
Audio Performance
Buyers focused solely on display quality often neglect the importance of a television’s sound system. Vizio integrates more powerful audio hardware across budget and premium collections.
Sound Enhancement Technologies
Many Onn sets utilize basic downward or rear-firing speakers without room-filling sound projection. By contrast, even Vizio’s affordable V-Series lines integrate quality virtual surround DTS technologies for more three-dimensional, enriched audio impact.
The Dolby Atmos height channel simulation and dedicated upward-firing speakers on high-end Vizio OLED or P-Series models stand miles ahead of any Onn television currently available.
Speaker Power and Configuration
While Onn TVs typically offer 20 watt total speakers or less, most equal-sized Vizio sets pump 30 watts or greater. More amplifier power allows louder, cleaner sound for big action scenes.
Instead of standard 2-channel stereo, many Vizio collections expand to 3.1 or 5.1 speaker layouts. Discrete tweeters join mid-range drivers and woofers to better reproduce effects and music soundtracks. Vizio’s audio edge gives games and movies more immersive punch.
Pricing and Value Comparison
In their pursuit of wallet-friendly home entertainment, both companies center affordability as a pillar. Vizio garners industry respect for packing its displays with the latest innovations without over-inflated price tags.
But in a sheer cost contest, Onn stands as the retail price leader. The Walmart-exclusive brand undercuts most competitors specifically through massive economy of scale. Let’s break down where Onn and Vizio sets typically land.
65-Inch 4K Models
- Onn 65-inch 4K smart TV: $398
- Vizio V-Series 65-inch 4K smart TV: $549
- Vizio M-Series Quantum 4K smart TV: $698
As this sampling shows, Onn goes extremely light on the wallet for a 65-inch 4K screen. Yet Vizio still presents strong value with better display performance even just $150 higher. Picture purists find upgrades stepping up to quantum dot and full array dimming worthwhile.
75-Inch 4K Models
- Onn 75-inch 4K smart TV: $618
- Vizio 75-inch V-Series 4K smart TV: $799
- Vizio P75Q9-J01 premium 4K smart TV: $1599
The situation stays consistent as screen sizes scale larger. Onn impresses with record-low sticker prices, while Vizio balances outstanding picture and features. Going premium nets a prime showcase television still at excellent value.
Size Range Breakdown
Both companies understand buyers want bigger and bigger displays as 4K HDR becomes mainstream. They continue expanding their size catalogs beyond 50 or 60-inches into colossal territory.
Onn Size Offerings
Currently Onn stocks these screen size configurations:
- 24-inch
- 32-inch
- 40-inch
- 43-inch
- 50-inch
- 55-inch
- 58-inch
- 65-inch
- 75-inch
Vizio Size Offerings
Vizio’s dimensional diversity also continues growing:
- 40-inch
- 43-inch
- 50-inch
- 55-inch
- 58-inch
- 65-inch
- 70-inch
- 75-inch
- 80-inch
- 85-inch
Vizio extends into 80 and 85-inch scale, enabling truly cinema-sized viewing environments. But both supply plenty of choices for small or supersized 4K setups.
Design and Build Quality
While perhaps not buyers’ top priority, the aesthetic look and construction of a television still impact overall satisfaction. Vizio earns higher marks for sleek contemporary styling and sturdy engineering.
Materials and Finish
Most current Onn models feature simple black plastic casing and bezels, lacking any metal accents or distinct character. Vizio series incorporate brushed metal trim with slimmer bezels for a refined, premium profile even on cheaper models.
Stand Design and Wall Mounting
Onn TV stands feel flimsy and basic. By contrast, many Vizio collections include contemporary stands with cable management to tidy entertainment setups. All sets also support wall mounting, but Vizio televisions install cleanly with less chance of sagging over time.
Picture Settings Retention
When viewers cycle through different picture presets like Sports Mode or HDR settings, Onn sets tend to lose preferences requiring frequent resets. Vizio SmartCast OS remembers tailor picture adjustments accurately across boot ups.
Get tips on problems like Onn TV red light blinking and troubleshoot issues like Onn TV won’t turn on.
Key Buying Considerations for Onn and Vizio
Alongside everything discussed already, keep these vital television shopping tips in mind as you evaluate Onn versus Vizio:
Room lighting – Buyers with sun-drenched living spaces should ensure adequate brightness, but discount dimming zones. Home theater owners can better appreciate the depth from full array local dimming.
Sound needs – Audiophile home viewers wanting built-in surround sound should pass on basic Onn speakers. But soundbars remain an easy upgrade path.
Console gaming – Hardcore Playstation or Xbox gamers need HDMI 2.1 inputs with gaming features seen in certain Vizio collections. Casual Nintendo Switch fans still benefit from 4K and HDR either brand enables.
Future-proofing – Integrated next-gen Wi-Fi 6 and forthcoming ATSC 3.0 tuners offer better connectivity and over-the-air broadcasts where supported. As displays retain usefulness for 5-7 years, invest where possible for down-the-road improvements.
Price drops – For the most savings, target Black Friday or holiday sales. Both companies slash prices across November and December especially for larger sizes. Onn deals from Walmart offer unmatched affordability.
Learn how Onn TVs compare in value against other top brands like LG TVs and Hisense TVs.
The Verdict: Which Budget Brand Should You Buy?
For shoppers enticed by maximum screen acreage at minimal expenditure, Onn remains the price leader through Walmart’s supply chain mastery and distribution. The brand floods big box shelves with capable starter 4K televisions featuring all the essentials.
However, Vizio prevails on overall value by injecting superior display technologies, polished smart platforms and enhanced audio into affordably-priced large and mega-sized sets. If your budget allows even just a modest step-up from bare bottom pricing, Vizio brings better components and immersive viewing experiences that satisfy discerning home viewers.
In the end, everyday viewers thrilled to upgrade to a 50, 60 or 70-inch 4K smart television with HDR will breathe big screen life into living rooms and dorms with either brand. Home entertainment enthusiasts needing to augment slightly beyond bare minimum performance will discover quality in Vizio worthy of a few extra dollars.
For their outstanding balance of price, screen size joy and complete feature sets, both Onn and Vizio earn their statuses as leaders in the budget-friendly television space. We hope this comprehensive 2024 comparison guide helps shed light to confidently pick the right big screen for your needs and budget!
FAQ
Q: Is Onn or Vizio better for gaming?
A: Vizio TVs are better suited for gaming with features like variable refresh rate, 120Hz support, and Auto Low Latency Mode missing on current Onn sets. Hardcore console or PC gamers should choose Vizio.
Q: How long do budget Vizio and Onn TVs last?
A: With average usage of 5-7 hours daily, budget LED LCD TVs from Vizio and Onn typically last 5-7 years before screen uniformity or dimming performance gradually declines. Extended warranties can hedge against early failure risk.
Q: Do Vizio or Onn TVs come with warranties?
A: Both Vizio and Onn cover new TVs with 1 year limited warranties. Extra peace of mind can be purchased by adding 2-4 years extended protection plans. Coverage varies, so understand terms fully when adding warranty extensions.
Q: Which has the better smart TV system, Onn or Vizio?
A: Vizio SmartCast offers faster performance, richer app selection and smarter unified cross-service search tools than the basic platforms on Onn sets currently. Hands-free Google Assistant voice control also gives Vizio an edge.
Q: Is a 65-inch Onn or Vizio TV good for a living room?
A: Yes, either a 65-inch Onn or Vizio TV will make an excellent living room television. The abundant screen real estate lets multiple viewers enjoy the big picture. Just make sure to compare audio capabilities if sound quality matters most.
