Are you trying to decide between a Vizio or Samsung TV for your next big screen upgrade? This comprehensive 2024 guide compares Vizio and Samsung across over a dozen key factors to help you make the right choice.
Overview
Vizio and Samsung are two of the biggest names in the TV industry, known for making affordable, high-quality smart TVs. But with so many options to pick from, it can be confusing trying to figure out which brand is right for you.
This in-depth guide compares these two TV titan head-to-head across critical categories like picture quality, smart features, audio, gaming performance, screen sizes and more. We also provide specific 2024 model recommendations and highlight key considerations for making the optimal decision based on your viewing habits and budget.
Picture Quality
Delivering stunning visuals is one of the most important aspects of any new TV. So how do Vizio and Samsung stack up when it comes to picture performance?
Resolution
Both manufacturers offer 4K resolution even on lower cost models, providing 4x more detail than 1080p HD. Higher end Samsung QLEDs also come in 8K which is ideal for extra large screen sizes.
Winner: Tie
HDR Support
High Dynamic Range encoding expands contrast and color for better realism. Top models from both brands support leading HDR formats like HDR10+, Dolby Vision and HLG. Samsung has more 8K models with HDR but higher end Vizios still impress.
Winner: Tie
Peak Brightness
Brighter screens make highlights really pop and overcome glare better. Samsung QLED TVs can get incredibly bright, reaching up to 1500-2000 nits on high end models which is great for well-lit rooms. Vizio also offers full array local dimming for deep black levels.
Winner: Samsung
Local Dimming Zones
More dimming zones allow for better distinction between dark and bright areas of the image for better contrast. Premium Samsung Neo QLEDs have the edge here with nearly 500 zones while high-end Vizios tend to have around 100-200 zones.
Winner: Samsung
Viewing Angles
If viewing from off center Samsung uses VA panel designs which can degrade picture quality at wider angles compared to IPS panels common on Vizio which maintain better consistency even for placing TVs in garages.
Winner: Vizio
Upscaling
Upscaling lower resolution content to 4K sharpness is important since most content is still HD. Samsung consistently gets high praise from reviewers on its AI powered upscaling while Vizio tends to be just decent.
Winner: Samsung
Motion Handling
Good motion handling reduces blur in action scenes. Samsung has extremely fast response times leading to less motion blur for sports and gaming. Vizio performs well here too but Samsung still wins.
Winner: Samsung
Smart TV Features
With streaming and apps now commonplace, smart functionality is a must-have. How do these two brands compare when it comes to smart TV performance and features?
Interface
Samsung uses its own fast, intuitive Tizen interface while Vizio sticks with a simple SmartCast interface. Both allow seamless streaming app access and customization although Tizen offers slightly smoother navigation.
Winner: Samsung
Voice Assistants
Hands-free voice control makes it easy to search for titles or manage playback. Both Samsung and Vizio work with Google Assistant as well as Amazon Alexa through smart speakers.
Winner: Tie
Gaming Features
Serious console or PC gamers should consider Samsung which now offers gaming-centric features like auto low latency mode, variable refresh rate and 4K 120fps on many models. Vizio lags behind on dedicated gaming features but some models do support using both a Roku and Fire Stick for accessing apps and streaming.
Winner: Samsung
Audio Quality
While most slim LED TVs lack speaker power, audio still plays a key role for movie nights. Here’s how audio shakes out between the two brands:
Sound Enhancement Technologies
To compensate for thin designs Samsung uses Q-Symphony and Dolby Atmos along with audio tuning by experts at Harman Kardon on premium models. Vizio also incorporates Dolby Audio enhancements.
Winner: Samsung
Soundbars
Since built-in speakers are limited, having the option to pair with a matching soundbar helps big time. Both companies make their own excellent, attractively priced soundbars so you can build a complete audio system.
Winner: Tie
To control volume across multiple components, using a home theater power manager is recommended.
Speaker Configuration
The number of speakers and placement impacts audio expansion. Premium Samsung sets feature an expansive 4.2.2 channel setup while most Vizio models still use a standard 2 channel configuration.
Winner: Samsung
Design & Build Quality
You’ll be looking at your new TV every day, so aesthetics and durability are definitely worth weighing. Here is how Samsung and Vizio TV designs compare:
Styling
This comes down to personal preference but Samsung sets tend to have a sleeker, more high-end style while Vizio uses simpler, more affordable designs across their lineup. Samsung also offers rotating stands on some models.
Winner: Personal Preference
Frame Options
Samsung goes beyond normal rectangular TV designs with their popular Frame series which resemble picture frames and blend into room decor better while displaying art when idle. Vizio focuses on value pricing over unique styling.
Winner: Samsung
Durability
Across thousands of customer reviews, both brands appear quite durable and reliable over years of use. High-end Samsungs may utilize slightly more premium materials and components which give them a sturdy, weighty feel.
Winner: Samsung
Screen Sizes
TVs now range from compact 40-43 inch screens for small rooms up to massive 85+ inch displays. Here is how Samsung and Vizio compare on sizing options:
Small Sizes
Vizio edges out Samsung in the smaller size range, offering compact 24 and 32 inch models better suited to dorms, kitchens and offices that Samsung lacks. Samsung’s smallest is 43 inches.
Winner: Vizio
Mid-range Sizes
The core TV sizes between 43-65 inches are well represented by both companies. Samsung does have more sizes to choose from whereas Vizio sticks to fewer standard mid-range offerings.
Winner: Samsung
Large Sizes
In the over 65 inch range Samsung clearly dominates on jumbo screens, with 85, 98 and 110 inch class TVs aimed at home theaters that Vizio does not currently produce. Vizio tops out at 80 inches.
Winner: Samsung
Unique Sizes
Looking for an exact width that fits your console or wall space perfectly? Samsung delivers more tailored sizing options including standout 49 and 43 inch model sizes unavailable from Vizio.
Winner: Samsung
Vizio focuses on fewer standard mid-range offerings while Samsung has more size options. For other affordable models comparable to Vizio, Hisense is another good alternative to consider, though experts favor Vizio over Hisense in terms of reliability and picture quality.
Pricing & Value Comparison
Budget plays a pivotal role for most buyers. Which brand gives you more bang for your buck?
Budget Models
On the very low end, Vizio competes aggressively on pricing for no-frills secondary TVs. Samsung economy models still retain smarter features. Vizios start under $300 while Samsung’s start around $450.
Winner: Vizio
Mid-range Pricing
In the core $500-$1500 mid-range category with 55-65 inch sizes, Samsung and Vizio models with similar capabilities are very competitively priced against each other, often separated by only around $50-100.
Winner: Tie
Premium Models
On high-end models with the best bells & whistles Samsung commands a premium for unrivaled performance while Vizio maxes out at still very capable and more affordable displays. Samsung 75-85 inch QLEDs run $3000+ while top Vizio P-Series start under $2000.
Winner: Vizio
key takeaways
- For premium picture quality and gaming performance Samsung QLED TVs are hard to beat while Vizio competes well on affordable 4K TVs offering excellent quality for the money.
- Samsung dominates on audio quality and largest screen sizes over 85 inches while Vizio takes the lead on smaller budgets.
- It comes down to price vs performance. Samsung represents the top of the line while Vizio balances quality against value. Determine the features most important for your viewing and budget to make the ideal choice.
Recommended 2024 Samsung TV Models
- Samsung QN90B Neo QLED 4K (Best Overall)
- Samsung QN85B 4K Quantum Mini LED (Best Gaming)
- Samsung Q70B QLED 4K (Best Mid-range)
- Samsung AU7000 Crystal UHD 4K (Best Budget)
Recommended 2024 Vizio TV Models
- Vizio P-Series Quantum 4K (Best Overall)
- Vizio V-Series 4K (Best Budget)
- Vizio M-Series 4K (Best Mid-range)
- Vizio OLED 4K (Best High-end)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Samsung or Vizio better for gaming?
A: Samsung is better for gaming. High-end Samsung Neo QLEDs have HDMI 2.1 inputs enabling 4K/120FPS, VRR and other enhancements perfect for the latest Xbox Series X and PS5 consoles.
Q: Do Samsung or Vizio TVs last longer?
A: In terms of longevity most Samsung and Vizio LED TVs are rated to last around 60-100 thousand hours of viewing time over 6-10 years with average usage before any significant brightness declines. Samsung QLED quantum dot models may retain color and brightness a bit longer.
Q: Does Samsung make panels for Vizio?
A: No. Vizio sources its LED TV panels from a variety of manufacturing partners but Samsung does not supply panels directly to Vizio. However, like many brands Vizio may incorporate some separate component modules and parts made by Samsung.
Q: Which has better customer support?
A: Both Vizio and Samsung earn respectable marks for customer support and service. Vizio TVs are generally very reliable with few issues needing service while Samsung also operates national call centers and authorized repair shops to care for more premium models.
The Bottom Line
Samsung continues to push the envelope on premium TV technology and performance while Vizio appeals by bringing superb affordability to 4K smart TV features. Carefully examine the categories above most important for your viewing habits, entertainment setup and budget to decide if a Samsung or Vizio TV is the better choice to become your family’s next entertainment powerhouse.
