The TV still works if it's not connected to the internet. Just buy a smart TV, never connect it to the internet, and get third party streaming sticks instead.
I wouldn’t be surprised if at some point, the first time you turn on your new TV, you’re prompted with an unskippable “Create your Vizio account” screen or some such nastiness.
Just like rooting/reinstalling your phone, it's important to set it up properly right after you buy it - no excuses of trying out their gimmicky crapware, figuring it out later, etc. This way, you're well within the return window and won't be stuck with defective merchandise.
