VIZIO SmartCast M65-E0 Detailed Features

In this section, I dive deeper into the 2017 VIZIO SmartCast M65-E0 display. The first detail worth clarifying is what makes this generation of ‘smart’ televisions different than previous 4K UHD TVs. The primary difference between previously available 4K displays and this latest generation is HDR: the ability to display a wider color gamut with better light contrast. By utilizing High Dynamic Range technology with features such as XHDR Plus, Ultra Color Spectrum, and Xtreme Black Engine Plus, VIZIO can deliver Dolby Vision content like no other 4K before HDR.

As previously suggested, the 2017 SmartCast M-Series has modern cord-cutters in mind. With so much of today’s best programming coming by way of streaming services that already deliver content in 4K Ultra HD and Dolby Vision HDR, now is a good time to ditch cable. If content isn’t enough, then cost might be, as you can pick and choose.

Dolby Vision is the preferred HDR mastering choice for major studios and creative professionals because of its impressive color range, so expect new movies and streaming content to utilize this feature. 2017 VIZIO SmartCast M-series home theater displays come with Dolby Vision content already embedded for demonstration of their XHDR Plus technology. To view this content, bring up the Menu and navigate to: System > Reset & Admin > Store Demo.

The 2017 SmartCast TV includes these streaming apps: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Crackle, iHeart Radio, XUMO, VUDU, Fandango Now, HaystackTV, and Pluto. If there’s another app you like, such as YouTube, simply open that app from your device and ‘Cast’ to the display. Additionally, Android and iOS smartphone users may install VIZIO’s free SmartCast Mobile app for even more service options and virtual remote control for the 2017 M-Series.

If you’re a cord-cutter, but prefer to download your content to a portable drive, there are two USB 2.0 ports located at the back of the M65-E0 display.While the user manual claims the M-series requires that USB storage devices be formatted FAT32 and contain only MP4 video files, these displays recognized and played NTFS drives with just fine.

At the back (bottom and left side) of the M65-E0 are a collection of modern connections. Analog component video with stereo audio input, collectively labeled ‘better’, give this display wide-reaching backward compatibility. Analog stereo and digital optical audio output also enable sound to a wide variety of legacy home theater devices. There’s also an Ethernet port, should a wired Internet connection be preferred over the wireless options.

The digital ports are labeled ‘best’ by VIZIO. HDMI port #1 is version 2.0 with HDCP 2.2 and ARC (Audio Return Channel) for attached audio hardware. This particular port connects at a 600 MHz pixel clock rate (2160p@60fps 4:4:4 8-bit, 2160p@60fps 4:2:2 12-bit, 2160p@60fps 4:2:0 12-bit). On the other hand, HDMI ports #2-3-4 are each version 1.4 with HDCP 2.2, and connect at a 340 MHz pixel clock rate (2160@60fps 4:2:0 8-bit).

Lightweight and ready for wall mounting, all 2017 SmartCast M-series home theater displays include a set of steel support stands that affix within the bezel’s outer underside. On the 65″ model, these legs measure 47.2″ from the outer edges. Planning may be required to ensure sufficient surface space for this standing display.

Even in this age of connected devices, people (like me) will still occasionally choose a physical remote control over the virtual alternative available with the SmartCast Mobile app. The 50″ model I first tested came with the VIZIO XRT135 remote control, however, the 65″ model I later purchased came with the XRT136 remote shown above. This remote adds six quick-launch buttons near the top. Two AAA batteries (included) are required to power the remote. If needed, a basic set of power, volume, and input select buttons are also available at the left side of the display.

In the next section, I offer my final thoughts on 4K UHD displays and deliver my conclusion…