- Table of Contents
- Intro
- Design
- Picture Quality
- Motion
- Inputs
- Sound Quality
- Smart Features
- Sizes and Variants
- Compared
- Conclusion
- Discussions
Vizio E Series 2018
TV REVIEW
The Vizio E Series is a good 4k UHD TV. It can produce deep dark scenes due to the excellent native contrast ratio and black uniformity. It also has decent motion handling with a fast response time, so only a short blur trail can be seen when watching sports or gaming. Unfortunately, the picture quality degrades when viewed at an angle and the local dimming doesn't work well to improve the picture quality further.
- Deep and uniform blacks
- Excellent low input lag
- Image degrades when viewed at an angle
- Can't get very bright
| Design | 7.0 |
| Picture Quality | 7.5 |
| Motion | 7.4 |
| Inputs | 8.8 |
| Sound Quality | 6.3 |
| Smart Features | 6.8 |
Update 12/13/2018: We've corrected the number of HDMI inputs on the E55-F1.
Update 8/16/2018: We have retested the SDR Peak Brightness on the latest firmware (1.0.18.4) and it remains the same.
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Design
The design of the Vizio E series is good. The TV comes with the usual wide but sturdy stand, a thick brushed bezel finish and a metal trim on the bottom, which gives the TV a more premium look. When looking at the TV from the side, its structure looks very much like the higher end 2018 P series and M series. The build quality is decent and should not cause any issues.
The back of the TV is plastic. It has a more sleek look and the inputs are still split between the side and the bottom edge, easily accessible if you wall mount the TV. There is no planning for cable management.
The maximum thickness is similar to 2017 E Series. Like all other Vizio models we tested this year, the structure of the TV (screen and electronics' compartment) is more apparent when the TV is viewed from the side.
Picture Quality
The picture quality of the Vizio E Series 65 is okay. It has a remarkable contrast ratio and can display deep blacks in dark scenes. Its out-of-the-box color accuracy is great and almost perfect when calibrated. Unfortunately, it does not have a wide color gamut, and the HDR brightness level is sub-par so the whole image looks dim. Although it can handle reflections well, viewing angles are somewhat limited, which does not make it suitable for wide rooms. Finally, due to just ordinary gray uniformity, some dirty screen effect is to be expected in panning shots.
The Vizio E Series has an excellent contrast ratio. It is even better than the already great contrast ratio seen on last year's E series 2017. The TV can procure deep blacks that look great in dark viewing environments and are particularly important for dark scenes in movies.
When the local dimming feature is turned on, the contrast ratio does not change by much due to the poor local dimming implementation.
The local dimming for this TV is bad. Although it's a FALD panel, local dimming fails to enhance contrast and produce better blacks. Compared side-by-side to the Vizio E Series 2017 with the same number of zones, the algorithm is much less aggressive. This means that although the dark scenes often aren't as deep, blooming is much less noticeable (because there is less of a difference between zones which are on and off). It also means that small highlights transition smoothly between zones, rather than the brightness flickering.
The SDR peak brightness of the Vizio E Series 2018 is decent. The TV reaches and maintains a brightness level that is ok for darker rooms, but in bright rooms, this might just not be enough.
Update 08/15/2018: We have retested the SDR Peak Brightness on the latest firmware (1.0.18.4) and it remains the same.
Sub-par HDR peak brightness for the Vizio E Series. It is fairly consistent across all input windows without dimming small highlights, but not bright enough to display the creator's intention and take advantage of the HDR increased brightness range.
It is worth noting though that this year's model compared to last years E Series 2017, has a fundamental difference in dealing with highlights. In 2017 bright highlights in dark scenes were dimmed because of the local dimming functions of that model. This year the TV tries to boost those highlights and this is where the higher peak brightness comes from.
Update 08/15/2018: We have retested the HDR Peak Brightness on the latest firmware (1.0.18.4) and it remains the same.
The gray uniformity for the Vizio E Series is okay. There is fairly noticeable clouding at the 50% gray level, especially towards the edges of the screen. Some dirty screen effect is visible during panning and sports shots.
The results are much better at 5% gray level. There it becomes harder to notice clouding.
The Vizio E Series 2018 has excellent black uniformity and is an improvement to the already great E Series 2017. There is no clouding and blacks look very uniform resulting in great looking dark scenes in movies.
The Vizio E Series 2018 has very good out of the box color accuracy. When the picture mode is set to Calibrated Dark, the color dE is well below 3, so most people will not notice any imperfections, The white balance dE is just above 3 so some might pick up the slight gray inaccuracies.
The gamma is at 2.26 just slightly above the 2.2 target. This makes shadows look brighter, but again not many people will notice. The colors are a little warm but nothing too annoying.
The results for the Vizio E65-F0 / E65-F1 after calibration are amazing. The accuracy is almost perfect in all aspects of our measurements. Color dE and white balance dE are very small, the gamma curve follows perfectly at 2.2, and the color temperature is almost perfect at 6503K
Note: Calibration can be performed very easily with the help of the Smartcast app, as no on-screen menu is necessary.
You can see our recommended settings here.
No issues can be seen with native 4k content.
Note that we've had one reader report crosshatching visible on their 43" E Series (E43-F1).
The color gamut is decent, but the TV fails to be classified as having a wide color gamut.
In the Calibrated Dark picture mode the TV's HDR EOTF doesn't follow the target PQ curve well; this results in a perceived loss of contrast in HDR scenes, because dim shades are too bright and bright shades are too dim. The TV's EOTF remains nearly unchanged when Game Low Latency is enabled when gaming, and in the Computer picture mode during computer use. If users find HDR content too dim, raising the Backlight setting from the default 50 to 100 raises the EOTF and brightens most of an HDR scene.
We don't expect VA panels to experience permanent image retention, as the VA panel in our long-term test appears immune.
Motion
The Vizio E Series 2018 has decent motion handling. It comes with a very fast response time and uses PWM to dim the backlight. The flicker is very fast and should not be noticeable to most people. It can lower the flicker rate to reduce blur, but unlike most TVs, it can do so without dimming the screen. It does not support any motion interpolation, so there is no way to remove stutter from low fps content.
The Vizio E Series 2018 does not have a motion interpolation feature.
Some stutter in 24p is noticeable, especially with wide panning shots. Since there is no motion interpolation to reduce it, you can only rely on the blur created by the response time to smooth it out.
The Vizio E-Series can play 24p content without judder, but only when played from a native 24p source like a Blu-ray player or from the native apps. To remove judder set Film mode to on.
When the 24fps is coming through 60i or 60p then just like the 2017 model the TV is not able to remove it.
The Vizio E Series doesn't support any variable refresh rate features.
Inputs
The Vizio E Series 2018 has excellent low input lag both for SDR and HDR content. It is a great improvement from the 2017 model and it supports 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:2:2 or 4:4:4 color on all ports, as long as you set it to 'Full UHD Color'. The TV comes with a TV tuner, unlike the previous two years' models.
The input lag is excellent. To achieve low input lag you must set the Game Low Latency to on as its is the only setting that is necessary for low input lag.
4:4:4 is only shown properly in the Computer picture mode and the Game Low Latency toggle is still necessary for low input lag, but when a chroma 4:4:4 signal is sent Game Low Latency is activated by default and grayed out.
Most common resolutions are supported at 60Hz except 1440p. Also there is no support for 120 Hz.
Only in Computer picture mode can 4:4:4 color be displayed properly. In this mode Sharpness is set to 0 which means no added sharpness, and it is grayed out.
This year's model can support 4k @ 60 Hz @ 4:2:2 or 4:4:4 color on all ports, but it works only when Full UHD Color is enabled for that port.
4k @ 60Hz @ 4:4:4 + HDR is also supported.
Update 10/24/2018: We've received a few reports that the 43" model does not properly display chroma 4:4:4.
Update 7/26/2018: The 43-inch model E43-F1 and the 50-inch model E50-F2, have only 3 HDMI inputs. (2 on the bottom and 1 on the side)
The 2018 model supports HDR in all four HDMI ports so there will be no conflict with HDR and ARC like in the Vizio E Series 2017.
Just like the other 2018 Vizio models, in this E series the Digital Audio Out had to be manually set to Bitstream for DTS passthrough (Optical and ARC) to work. If set to Auto it stays in PCM.
Sound Quality
The sound quality is mediocre. This TV has an average loudness so may not be loud enough for large and noisy environments, but it is able to produce clear dialogs. Also, it doesn't produce much bass and doesn't have a room correction system. For a better sound, dedicated speakers or soundbars are recommended.
The frequency response is mediocre. Low-frequency extension (LFE) is at 127Hz. This means this TV doesn't produce any thump or rumble and won't have much kick to its bass either. The response above the LFE point is decent, which is important for producing clear dialogs. Also, this TV doesn't get very loud, and shows some compression and pumping artifacts at maximum volume. Additionally, since it doesn't have a room correction system, it wasn't able to remove the modes of our test room around 200Hz.
Smart Features
The Vizio E Series uses the Vizio SmartCast smart interface, also found in the 2018 M Series and the P Series. It comes with very basic features but the main attraction is the built-in Chromecast media streaming support. It allows you to control the TV from a tablet or a phone and to stream files from just about anything. The selection of built-in apps is small and covers the basics, but there is no app store and no way to add additional functionality except through a firmware update.
There are no ads on the Vizio E Series, and this is great, but there is a large banner of suggested content that can't be disabled.
Limited selection of apps and smart features. On our Vizio E65-F1 / E65-F0, there were the following 18 apps: Netflix, Prime Video, Crackle, VUDU, iHeart Radio, YouTube, Newsy, Dove channel, Curiosity stream, Con TV, Pluto TV, Haystack TV, Xumo, Plex, Fandango Now, NBC, YouTube TV and Hulu.
Note: These are the US Region apps. Other regions might have different apps installed.
There is no app store but Google cast is supported.
Update 11/15/2018: Vizio has added a 'WatchFree' input via a firmware update. This uses the free Pluto TV service on the backend, and is well integrated.
Very basic and lightweight remote, same as Vizio M Series 2018. Small buttons, hard to read for some, but intuitive layout and easy to use. 6 button shortcuts for various streaming services are found at the top of the remote.
There is no voice control built into the remote or on the TV, but if you have a separate Google Home or Amazon Alexa device they can interface with and control the TV.
Differences between Sizes and Variants
The Vizio E Series 2018 4k TV that we bought is the 65" with SKU E65-F0. Different sizes have different panel provenances, so it is possible our review doesn't represent exactly all sizes. If someone's Vizio E Series 2018 doesn't correspond to our review, let us know and we will update the review.
| Size | Model | Alternative Name | Clear Action | Effective Refresh Rate | Real Refresh Rate | Local Dimming Zones | HDMI Inputs |
| 43" | E43-F1 | E Series 43 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 10 | 3 |
| 50" | E50-F2 | E Series 50 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 10 | 3 |
| 55" | E55-F1 | E Series 55 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 10 | 3 |
| 65" | E65-F0 | E Series 65 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 12 | 4 |
| 65" | E65-F1 | E Series 65 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 12 | 4 |
| 70" | E70-F3 | E Series 70 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 12 | 4 |
| 75" | E75-F1 | E Series 75 | 240 | 120 Hz | 60 Hz | 16 | 4 |
Note: The E65-F1 variant comes equiped with 10-watt speakers whereas the E65-F0 with 15-watt ones.
Update 7/26/2018: The table has been updated to include the number of HDMI inputs in the various models.
Update 10/09/2018: Vizio has released the E75-F2 variant of the 75" 2018 E Series. The 75" F2 variant is available with either IPS or VA panels, depending on the serial number. If the 4th digit of the serial number is a '2', it is a VA panel, if it is a 'J', it is an IPS panel.
Update 12/13/2018: The E55-F1 was incorrectly listed as having 4 HDMI inputs.
Compared to other TVs
The Vizio E-Series 2018 is a good low-mid-range 4k TV with a few minor flaws. It is a good improvement over the 2017 E-Series. See our recommendations for the best cheap TVs and the best TVs under $500.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is better than the Vizio V Series 2019. The E Series 2018 has a local dimming feature that enhances dark room performance. It also has a faster response time that leaves less blur trail behind fast-moving content. The E Series also includes a Black Frame Insertion feature that helps make motion even crisper. The Vizio V Series 2019 has slightly wider viewing angles.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is a bit better than the Vizio D Series 4k 2018. The Vizio E Series has a local dimming feature, although it isn't very effective. The E series has an optional Black Frame Insertion feature that can help clear up motion. The E series also supports Dolby Vision, which doesn't add much but is a nice extra. The Vizio D Series 4k 2018 has wider viewing angles, good if you have a large seating area.
The Vizio E Series 2018 4k TV is a bit better than the TCL 5 Series S517. The Vizio E Series has better dark room performance thanks to the better black uniformity and the local dimming feature. The Vizio also has better reflection handling and better black frame insertion feature that can help clear blur. The TCL S517 has an optional motion interpolation feature, which is great if you enjoy the soap opera effect.
The Vizio M Series 2018 is a bit better than the Vizio E Series 2018. The Vizio M Series 2018 has better local dimming which allows it to display better blacks in a dark room, and at the same time, it can get brighter so that you can also place it in a bright room without any issues. The M Series 2018 also has better HDR performance, whereas the Vizio E Series 2018 has slightly better reflection handling, which is great if you watch TV shows.
The Vizio P Series 2018 is much better than the Vizio E Series 2018. The P Series has a much better local dimming feature that greatly improves dark room viewing as it can dim darker areas of the screen. The P Series also performs better in a bright room as it's brighter and better able to overcome glare. Motion looks smoother on the Vizio P Series 2018 thanks to the better response time, as well as an optional motion interpolation feature.
The TCL 6 Series R617 is better than the Vizio E Series 2018. The TCL R617 can get brighter and is more suitable if you have a bright room. The R617 can deliver better dark room performance thanks to its local dimming support and has an optional motion interpolation feature to please the Soap Opera Effect fans. Finally, the TCL R617 has a wide color gamut, so HDR content looks much better.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is somewhat better than the Samsung NU7100. The Vizio E has better reflection handling, and supports local dimming, even though it isn't very effective. The Vizio produces clearer motion with less blur thanks to the faster response time, and it's more effective at removing judder from 24p sources. The Samsung NU7100 has an optional motion interpolation feature, which is great if you enjoy the soap opera effect.
Overall, the Vizio E Series 2018 and LG UK6570 are very similar. The Vizio E Series 2018 has a VA panel and is better suited for dark room viewing sitting directly in front. The LG UK6570 has an IPS panel and is better suited for a bright room with side seating. The UK6570 has an optional motion interpolation feature, great for fans of the soap opera effect. The LG also has lower input lag, great for gaming or for use as a PC monitor.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is a bit better than the Samsung RU7100. The Vizio has a local dimming feature that further improves dark room performance and can remove 24p judder from some sources. The Vizio has a faster response time and better reflection handling. The Samsung RU7100 has a lower input lag, great for gaming, and a motion interpolation feature.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is better than the TCL S425. The Vizio can get much brighter and has a local dimming feature to improve dark room performance. It also includes an optional black frame insertion feature that can help make motion crisper. The TCL S425 has a lower input lag which is great for playing video games.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is much better than the Toshiba Fire TV 2018. The Vizio has local dimming and Dolby Vision support, it also has better color gamut and color volume and thus, it can display HDR content slightly better. The Vizio has lower input lag, which is great if you play video games or use the TV as a PC monitor. Finally, the Vizio has a faster response time so it can display fast-moving content with less blur. The Toshiba Fire TV 2018, on the other hand, supports motion interpolation for the soap opera effect enthusiasts and can upscale better cable input, which is important if you watch a lot of TV shows or sports.
The two TVs have a different panel type. The LG UK7700 has better viewing angles, better reflection handling and is more appropriate for watching sports or TV shows in a room with many light sources and wide seating arrangement. The Vizio E Series 2018, on the other hand, is a better choice for a dark room where you will be sitting right in front. It has better contrast ratio, better black uniformity, and will provide a better movie experience in a dark room and better HDR performance.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is a bit better than the Samsung RU7300. The E Series has a local dimming feature, although this doesn't add much, and it has a much faster response time. The E Series can also remove judder from most sources, but lacks a motion interpolation feature. The RU7300 has a curved screen, a motion interpolation feature, and lower input lag.
The Vizio E Series 2018 is much better than the Element Fire TV. The E Series 2018 delivers better picture quality, including support for the latest HDR formats. The E Series has much lower input lag, great for gaming, and has an optional black frame insertion feature that can improve motion clarity. The Element Fire TV can interpolate lower frame rate content to help motion appear smoother.