Vizio M702i Review

70 inch 1080p Smart Full-Array LED TV

by Robert Wiley, Senior Editor

This large screen smart LED TV is the second largest screen in the 2014 updated M series lineup from Vizio. Picture quality and smart TV features were the main focus of the upgrades to the TV. The biggest impact on picture quality viewers are going to notice is the inclusion of advance full-array backlighting. This bumps the contrast to levels that compete with some of the big name TV manufacturers. Vizio's internet apps plus provides access to all the streaming services you'll need. Vizio dumped 3D playback on their 2014 models to focus on picture quality which in turn makes the value even stronger. The retail price for the M702i is $1,899.99. That's a good $1,400 less than the 80 inch size.

Picture Quality

The overall 2D picture quality of this TV will depend a lot on the picture mode you select. Active LED Local Dimming with 32 zones to enhance contrast control is one of the standout picture quality features of the M702i. Black levels are more saturated than we saw last year, and the TV certainly has plenty of brightness in whites. Active Pixel Tuning helps even further with a quality image. In terms of sharpness, we've seen better from the big names like Sony and Samsung. This is a result of the picture processing engines. It is certainly not among the worst. To further the screen refresh rate, Vizio includes a 720 Clear Action Rate feature. This will help with sports programming and fast action, but it should probably be left disabled most of the time.

Vizio Internet Apps Plus

Vizio has added a Plus to the name of their smart TV features this year. 802.11n Wifi is built right into the TV for an excellent connection that will handle HD streaming without a problem. Some of the major streaming apps include Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon, Vudu, Pandora, and all the social media you need. The new backlit remote even has dedicated buttons for Netflix, Amazon, and M Go. The whole platform has recieved a redesign in order to achieve an inuitive user interface. We think it is an improvement upon previous iterations. Second Screen interactivity is also a feature for iOS and Android devices.

Appearance and Design

The M702i features the same design as previous M series models with a few slight improvements. The 8mm thin bezels really push the frameless look and are 20% thinner than last year's bezels. The base and neck are made out of metal to give it a solid construction and feel. The profile is razor thin and competes with the best LED TVs on the market. We thought the desing was average last year and that still stands, but thinner bezels are always a welcome addition.

Having reviewed and written about Television Technology for over 10 years, Wiley never tires of researching the newest qualitative trends related to the technology. Most people do not get excited about possibilities behind the latest video engine...Wiley does. Read more about Robert