Best TV antennas of 2022 for local news, sports, and more
There’s no better feeling than breaking the shackles of your cable company and cutting the cord. But for many, losing access to network programming can be a bit of a sacrifice for things like local news, live sports, or shows. Fortunately, today’s TV antennas are paper-thin, simple to program, and a breeze to relocate at a moment’s notice. We’ve got you covered with the best of them.
After extensive reviews of TV antennas including the excellent Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified, we’ve collected top indoor and outdoor choices. Additionally, every antenna on this list will support the 4K-friendly ATSC 3.0 standard that continues to roll out across the country with its upgraded performance.
Editor’s note: Not everyone lives in a neighborhood suitable for antenna viewing, so we recommend taking a look at TV Fool’s TV Signal Analysis tool or a similar site to find out which channels are available in your area before you buy.
Further reading on TV antennas
Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified
The best overall TV antenna
Pros
- Paper thin design
- 4K ready
- Great features for the price
Cons
- Setup instructions could be better
Why you should buy this: You’re looking for a future-proofed, eco-friendly flat antenna.
Who it’s for: The eco-minded cord cutter.
Why we picked the Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified:
Mohu’s Leaf Plus Amplified model is a near-perfect combination of affordability and quality. This antenna sports a 60-mile range and is able to handle 4K content (if available in your area). The flat design also allows you to place the amplifier as close to the antenna port as possible to reduce noise and improve signal clarity. With those features, it’s no surprise that the multi-direction antenna excels at picking up signals, even when lesser antennas may struggle with the job.
The Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified is also incredibly easy to set up: The thin construction is designed to be attached to any wall or window. You can also paint over it without worrying about loss of signal quality if you want it to match a specific color or decor setup. The 16-foot coaxial cable also makes it easy to find the spot with the best reception even if it’s not exactly close to your TV.
Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified
The best overall TV antenna
Winegard Amped Pro
The most user-friendly antenna
Pros
- Ample cable to work with
- Signal reception is great
- Smartphone app makes things simple
Cons
- Excess cable can be tricky to hide
Why you should buy this: You’re after a digital antenna that will deliver top-notch signal reception at all times.
Who it’s for: Those that want convenient access to signal monitoring features.
Why we chose the Winegard Amped Pro:
The Winegard Amped Pro is the only TV antenna in this roundup to utilize a mobile app as part of your TV setup. Available for iOS and Android devices, the Winegard Connected app pairs to the Amped Pro antenna via Bluetooth. During setup, you’ll be guided on where to locate the Amped Pro based on your home’s proximity to community broadcast towers, ensuring you’ll get the best signal possible based on your residence. Engineered for long-distance receiving, the Amped Pro is rated to capture broadcast signals up to 60 miles away. All this to say that signal strength certainly won’t be an issue with this model!
Along with a friendly mobile experience, the Amped Pro features Winegard’s Clear Circuit Technology, which provides boosted signal strength, cuts down on dropouts, and helps to eliminate pixelation in your TV’s received image. Reversible for a white or black antenna appearance, and mountable to windows and walls, the Winegard Amped Pro is the ideal indoor antenna for those that want to cut the cord with style.
Winegard Amped Pro
The most user-friendly antenna
Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna
The best budget TV antenna
Pros
- Super affordable
- Sturdy and stable
- No mounting required
Why you should buy this: You’re after a non-obtrusive omnidirectional antenna that can be easily placed near your TV.
Who it’s for: Basic TV watchers that could care less about long-distance broadcasting.
Why we chose the Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna:
For only $12, the Philips Modern Loop antenna isn’t built for long-range performance like other antennas in this roundup. Instead, you can expect up to a 30-mile range for both VHF and UHF broadcast signals from these rabbit ears. A weighted base and rubber feet keep the Modern Loop from bouncing off your entertainment center, which is great for nosy pets and active toddlers.
If you’re finding your picture is cutting in and out, the Modern Loop’s extendable dipoles add a layer of amplification to the antenna’s reception. While it’s not glorious by any means, the Philips Modern Loop is the perfect antenna for those living close to broadcast towers, or those living further from towers that only care about receiving three or four stations.
Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna
The best budget TV antenna
Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna
The best flat TV antenna
Pros
- Great amplification tech
- Short- and long-range modes
- Longer cable than usual
Why you should buy this: It’s a discreet yet powerful HD antenna with a flattened design.
Who it’s for: Those who want a flat antenna that doesn’t give up an ounce of performance.
Why we picked the Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna:
If you like the flat design of some antennas but want to make sure you’re also getting as much power as possible, look to this Gesobyte model. It’s slightly thicker than some of our other flat picks, but it includes an updated power amplifier that makes this one of the best flat antennas you can buy. It also has a unique dual-mode design: There’s a short-range mode for accurately picking up signals around 35 miles away and a long-range mode that can search for signals up to 200 miles away. Choose the one that works best based on the number of towers where you live, and you should see results.
The Gesobyte antenna also offers filtering to remove possible interference from cell signals, as well as an 18-foot-long cable and USB power adapter to help during setup. This collection of features makes the antenna very easy to recommend, especially if you want to keep it out of sight while still getting lots of channels.
Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna
The best flat TV antenna
Mohu Leaf Metro
The best tiny TV antenna
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Reliable reception
- Compact design
Why you should buy this: The Leaf Metro is the smallest antenna of the bunch, but it’s no less capable of providing a stellar TV signal.
Who it’s for: City apartment dwellers who need something compact.
Why we picked the MohuLeaf Metro:
Though admittedly weaker than Mohu’s larger Leaf antenna, the Leaf Metro antenna is the perfect tiny antenna for compact living spaces. Mohu designed the Leaf Metro for discreet installation in homes located close to broadcast towers. As such, those living in downtown or urban areas are most likely to get the best results from the Leaf Metro, which has a range of approximately 25 miles.
To compound the versatility enabled by its tiny size, the Leaf Metro digital TV antenna also comes in either black or white, so users have the ability to paint it to match their interior. Plus, its adhesive coating means it’ll stick to almost any surface and can be moved to other locations with ease. An included 10-foot coaxial cable allows for fairly flexible installation.
Mohu Leaf Metro
The best tiny TV antenna
Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna
The best indoor/outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- Sturdy, quality build
- Stands on its own
- Versatile installation options
Cons
- No cable included
- Expensive
Why you should buy this: It delivers long-distance reception for even the farthest broadcast tower, even in less than ideal environments.
Who it’s for: Those who live a long distance from signal sources.
Why we picked the Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna:
Whether you’re using it indoors or as your dedicated outdoor TV antenna, the Clearstream 2Max is quite simple to use and assemble, utilizing clamps or a base for installation. Despite the antenna being larger than almost every other antenna listed here, it’s not so big that it can’t fit behind a TV or mount to the wall of your living room. For outdoor installation, a 20-inch mast is included.
While we’re recommending the Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna with 60-mile reception, if you live way out in the boonies, it may also be worthwhile to look into the larger and pricier 4Max version of the outdoor antenna, which features a 70-mile reception range and (some say) more reliable connection. Similarly, if you live closer to a signal, the 1max, which has a 40-mile range, is also a good option for an amplified antenna. With such a range of options available in the Clearstream Max line, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a great way to get free HD TV in the countryside.
Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna
The best indoor/outdoor TV antenna
Channel Master STEALTHtenna
The best outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- Easy to install
- Good value for the money
- Rugged for outdoor use
Why you should buy this: Your home falls outside the reception range of the most powerful indoor antenna on our list.
Who it’s for: Those for whom an indoor antenna simply won’t cut it.
Why we picked the Channel Master STEALTHtenna:
For most users, an indoor HDTV antenna will nab the channels you desire. There are some spots, however, where only an outdoor antenna will do the job. With a reception range of over 50 miles (sometimes more depending on your location), Channel Master’s STEALTHtenna provides incredible performance and impressive signal quality. This is thanks in part to the antenna’s tough powder-coated aluminum body that can withstand the mightiest winds and nasty weather, allowing your signal to shine regardless of how gloomy the skies are.
The Channel Master STEALTHtenna is a small and light OTA antenna, making it easy to find the proper location for mounting, and includes installation hardware for mounting the antenna to a flat wall, eaves, or fascia board. Two included U-bolts also allow you to mount the antenna to a mast or pole. Better yet, if you’re dropping your satellite service, you can use the U-bolts to mount your Channel Master to your old Dish Network hardware. For performance, easy installation, and durable design, look no further than the Channel Master STEALTHtenna.
Channel Master STEALTHtenna
The best outdoor TV antenna
PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608
Best long-range outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- 150-mile range
- Thorough installation kit with mounting poll
- Motor-based designed allows for remote turning of the antenna
Cons
- Requires a dedicated outdoor spot and running coaxial cable
Why you should buy this: You want an excellent long range antenna and don’t mind some installation work.
Who it’s for: Rural users looking for reliable long range.
Why we picked the PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608:
If you’re in a rural or mountainy spot, picking up signals could be a serious challenge for you. In this case, there’s only so much an indoor antenna can do, even today’s effective options. PBD’s outdoor TV antenna provides a solution that’s perfect if you’re having trouble catching many usable signals. The antenna, combined with its amplifier, is designed to reach up to 150 miles in range and has a lightning-protected design.
It’s a kit that’s more than ready for installation too, including a 40-foot coaxial cable, mounting pole, and a motor that you can use to adjust it with a remote controller to key in on the best direction for picking up signals at your home or business. It can also support two TVs at the same time. And despite how serious this antenna is at its job, it’s not too expensive for the average user to afford.
PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608
Best long-range outdoor TV antenna
Antop AT-800SBS
Best versatile TV antenna
Pros
- Indoor/outdoor use
- Comes with 40 feet of cable
- Highly adjustable
- Can connect to two devices at a time
Cons
- Harder to install than most antennas
- Big and bulky
Why you should buy this: You want a dual-port antenna that can handle radio, TV, and careful adjustments.
Who it’s for: Users who want their antenna to do everything.
Why we picked the Antop AT-800SBS:
If you’re looking for not just an HDTV antenna but a comprehensive antenna that can offer lots of options, check this Antop model out. Yes, it’s big and bulky. Yep, it’s harder to install than many of our picks. But it can also do a little of everything: You can mount it indoors or outdoors, it doesn’t have to face any particular way, and it has an extra-long 40-foot cable to expand your installation options. Plus, it includes an FM antenna for picking up radio.
But the customization options on this antenna don’t end there. The power booster includes an adjustment dial so you can find the right mix between range and clarity, there’s a filter for cell signals, and you can connect two devices at the same time (one for a TV and one for a radio, for example). The kit includes both an indoor stand and wall- or pole-mounting supplies, so you should have everything you need.
Antop AT-800SBS
Best versatile TV antenna
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you figure out what HDTV antenna works best for your needs?
That depends a lot on your location and your specific entertainment space. Antennas come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit next to TVs, on top of them, on nearby windows, or even outside on the roof. Generally, larger antennas get better reception, although placement is also important — look for range numbers when buying. Other features simply aren’t as important.
Of course, if this is your first antenna you may not know how good your range should be to pick up as many nearby signals as possible. For that, you can turn to the FCC’s DTV reception map, which is the most accurate look at the available channels in your region. Areas with good reception generally don’t need to worry as much about range.
How do you set up your HDTV antenna?
The good news is that there’s no complicated setup software to worry about. Today’s TVs all include digital tuners: Plug in an antenna and go to the tuner/antenna section of your TV menu — that’s about it. Your TV should automatically search and save any available channels with a strong enough signal: Refer to your TV manual for more specific instructions. If the number of channels picked up seems low to you, you will have an option to search again with a different placement.
When and where can you find the best deals on HDTV antennas?
HDTV antennas tend to be very affordable unless you go for large, amplified versions: Several of our top picks on this list make great budget options for antennas, including models under $30. If you’re looking for a specific deal, then antennas may be discounted around holidays and Black Friday sales along with other electronics: Best Buy is a great place to check (look for items marked “Clearance” or “Price Drop,” as is Amazon, especially during Prime Day.
Where do you put a TV antenna for best reception?
While it’s still best to opt for an antenna listed with longer reception ranges for locations far from broadcast towers, there are no universal testing criteria for establishing what an antenna’s operating range is. Plus, environmental factors will impact accuracy. Otherwise, here are some general tips to ensure the best possible reception.
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Face your antennas directly toward the nearest towers, if possible. Some antennas are omnidirectional — meaning the orientation of their placement won’t dampen matters much — but you should try and get it as close to the tower’s general direction within your house as possible.
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Place your antenna with as little geographical interference (mountains, hills, trees, buildings, etc.) as possible.
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Buy an amplified antenna if you find yourself afflicted by the issues above. They’re a bit costlier, but they typically perform better in less-than-ideal conditions, and they’ll save you time (and sanity) in the long run.
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Try to keep interference from radios, cell phones, or other electronics to a minimum. This doesn’t necessarily mean keeping the antenna away from your TV. In some instances, however, the best location for an antenna may well be directly behind or under the TV.
What do VHF and UHF mean on my antenna?
There are differences in the signal types that your antenna will be picking up, and some antennas may be better at picking up certain signal frequencies than others. The two main signal types are VHF and UHF. The basic difference between the two is the channels broadcast in those frequencies. Channels 2-13 are broadcast in VHF, while channels 14-51 are UHF. Most antennas can pick up both VHF and UHF, but some can only pick up one or the other. This will be noted in an antenna’s product description.
Also important to note is that a channel’s number doesn’t always correspond to that channel’s actual broadcast frequency. This exception doesn’t typically apply unless you’re pairing your HD antenna with a third-party interface, such as a DVR OTA receiver. Tablo, for example, lists CBS 6 in Richmond, Virginia, on its channel 6 slot, which you would think requires a VHF antenna, but the content actually comes in over the UHF-bound channel 25. This should be a non-issue in most situations, but keep this outlier in mind if you ever run into any issues.
Do amplified antennas get better reception?
While we have recommendations for amplified antennas, we aren’t entirely sold on the efficacy of that technology. Despite the name, “amplified” antennas or in-line amplifiers do not boost the signal reception itself. Rather, they strengthen the signal that is being picked up, meaning if you’re getting a slightly fuzzy signal, the amplifier will try to artificially boost the quality of the TV. We’ve had varying degrees of success there, but in general there often isn’t going to be an appreciable change in quality. It’s also important to note that amplifiers should not be used in areas where signal strength is stable. This can cause noise and other picture quality problems.
Will HDTV antennas pick up 4K resolution signals?
All of the products we’ve highlighted will support the 4K-ready ATSC 3.0 standard (and you’ll also need a TV that supports 4K for optimal results). Is ATSC 3.0, a.k.a. NextGen TV, available in your area? That’s a more complicated question. These free 4K broadcasts have been steadily rolling out across the United States, especially in metropolitan areas, but they may not be available in your area quite yet. You can check current availability to learn more.
Which is better, an outdoor or indoor TV antenna?
They each have different advantages. Indoor antennas tend to be smaller, more affordable, and very easy to set up, requiring very little space to work. Outdoor antennas are larger, generally more expensive, and require careful mounting on a roof or exterior wall. While outdoor antennas tend to get better reception, they are not always a possibility depending on where you live or how much work you want to do to get signals.
Editors’ Recommendations
There’s no better feeling than breaking the shackles of your cable company and cutting the cord. But for many, losing access to network programming can be a bit of a sacrifice for things like local news, live sports, or shows. Fortunately, today’s TV antennas are paper-thin, simple to program, and a breeze to relocate at a moment’s notice. We’ve got you covered with the best of them.
After extensive reviews of TV antennas including the excellent Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified, we’ve collected top indoor and outdoor choices. Additionally, every antenna on this list will support the 4K-friendly ATSC 3.0 standard that continues to roll out across the country with its upgraded performance.
Editor’s note: Not everyone lives in a neighborhood suitable for antenna viewing, so we recommend taking a look at TV Fool’s TV Signal Analysis tool or a similar site to find out which channels are available in your area before you buy.
Further reading on TV antennas
Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified
The best overall TV antenna
Pros
- Paper thin design
- 4K ready
- Great features for the price
Cons
- Setup instructions could be better
Why you should buy this: You’re looking for a future-proofed, eco-friendly flat antenna.
Who it’s for: The eco-minded cord cutter.
Why we picked the Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified:
Mohu’s Leaf Plus Amplified model is a near-perfect combination of affordability and quality. This antenna sports a 60-mile range and is able to handle 4K content (if available in your area). The flat design also allows you to place the amplifier as close to the antenna port as possible to reduce noise and improve signal clarity. With those features, it’s no surprise that the multi-direction antenna excels at picking up signals, even when lesser antennas may struggle with the job.
The Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified is also incredibly easy to set up: The thin construction is designed to be attached to any wall or window. You can also paint over it without worrying about loss of signal quality if you want it to match a specific color or decor setup. The 16-foot coaxial cable also makes it easy to find the spot with the best reception even if it’s not exactly close to your TV.
Mohu Leaf Plus Amplified
The best overall TV antenna
Winegard Amped Pro
The most user-friendly antenna
Pros
- Ample cable to work with
- Signal reception is great
- Smartphone app makes things simple
Cons
- Excess cable can be tricky to hide
Why you should buy this: You’re after a digital antenna that will deliver top-notch signal reception at all times.
Who it’s for: Those that want convenient access to signal monitoring features.
Why we chose the Winegard Amped Pro:
The Winegard Amped Pro is the only TV antenna in this roundup to utilize a mobile app as part of your TV setup. Available for iOS and Android devices, the Winegard Connected app pairs to the Amped Pro antenna via Bluetooth. During setup, you’ll be guided on where to locate the Amped Pro based on your home’s proximity to community broadcast towers, ensuring you’ll get the best signal possible based on your residence. Engineered for long-distance receiving, the Amped Pro is rated to capture broadcast signals up to 60 miles away. All this to say that signal strength certainly won’t be an issue with this model!
Along with a friendly mobile experience, the Amped Pro features Winegard’s Clear Circuit Technology, which provides boosted signal strength, cuts down on dropouts, and helps to eliminate pixelation in your TV’s received image. Reversible for a white or black antenna appearance, and mountable to windows and walls, the Winegard Amped Pro is the ideal indoor antenna for those that want to cut the cord with style.
Winegard Amped Pro
The most user-friendly antenna
Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna
The best budget TV antenna
Pros
- Super affordable
- Sturdy and stable
- No mounting required
Why you should buy this: You’re after a non-obtrusive omnidirectional antenna that can be easily placed near your TV.
Who it’s for: Basic TV watchers that could care less about long-distance broadcasting.
Why we chose the Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna:
For only $12, the Philips Modern Loop antenna isn’t built for long-range performance like other antennas in this roundup. Instead, you can expect up to a 30-mile range for both VHF and UHF broadcast signals from these rabbit ears. A weighted base and rubber feet keep the Modern Loop from bouncing off your entertainment center, which is great for nosy pets and active toddlers.
If you’re finding your picture is cutting in and out, the Modern Loop’s extendable dipoles add a layer of amplification to the antenna’s reception. While it’s not glorious by any means, the Philips Modern Loop is the perfect antenna for those living close to broadcast towers, or those living further from towers that only care about receiving three or four stations.
Philips Modern Loop Rabbit Ears Antenna
The best budget TV antenna
Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna
The best flat TV antenna
Pros
- Great amplification tech
- Short- and long-range modes
- Longer cable than usual
Why you should buy this: It’s a discreet yet powerful HD antenna with a flattened design.
Who it’s for: Those who want a flat antenna that doesn’t give up an ounce of performance.
Why we picked the Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna:
If you like the flat design of some antennas but want to make sure you’re also getting as much power as possible, look to this Gesobyte model. It’s slightly thicker than some of our other flat picks, but it includes an updated power amplifier that makes this one of the best flat antennas you can buy. It also has a unique dual-mode design: There’s a short-range mode for accurately picking up signals around 35 miles away and a long-range mode that can search for signals up to 200 miles away. Choose the one that works best based on the number of towers where you live, and you should see results.
The Gesobyte antenna also offers filtering to remove possible interference from cell signals, as well as an 18-foot-long cable and USB power adapter to help during setup. This collection of features makes the antenna very easy to recommend, especially if you want to keep it out of sight while still getting lots of channels.
Gesobyte Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna
The best flat TV antenna
Mohu Leaf Metro
The best tiny TV antenna
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Reliable reception
- Compact design
Why you should buy this: The Leaf Metro is the smallest antenna of the bunch, but it’s no less capable of providing a stellar TV signal.
Who it’s for: City apartment dwellers who need something compact.
Why we picked the MohuLeaf Metro:
Though admittedly weaker than Mohu’s larger Leaf antenna, the Leaf Metro antenna is the perfect tiny antenna for compact living spaces. Mohu designed the Leaf Metro for discreet installation in homes located close to broadcast towers. As such, those living in downtown or urban areas are most likely to get the best results from the Leaf Metro, which has a range of approximately 25 miles.
To compound the versatility enabled by its tiny size, the Leaf Metro digital TV antenna also comes in either black or white, so users have the ability to paint it to match their interior. Plus, its adhesive coating means it’ll stick to almost any surface and can be moved to other locations with ease. An included 10-foot coaxial cable allows for fairly flexible installation.
Mohu Leaf Metro
The best tiny TV antenna
Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna
The best indoor/outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- Sturdy, quality build
- Stands on its own
- Versatile installation options
Cons
- No cable included
- Expensive
Why you should buy this: It delivers long-distance reception for even the farthest broadcast tower, even in less than ideal environments.
Who it’s for: Those who live a long distance from signal sources.
Why we picked the Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna:
Whether you’re using it indoors or as your dedicated outdoor TV antenna, the Clearstream 2Max is quite simple to use and assemble, utilizing clamps or a base for installation. Despite the antenna being larger than almost every other antenna listed here, it’s not so big that it can’t fit behind a TV or mount to the wall of your living room. For outdoor installation, a 20-inch mast is included.
While we’re recommending the Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna with 60-mile reception, if you live way out in the boonies, it may also be worthwhile to look into the larger and pricier 4Max version of the outdoor antenna, which features a 70-mile reception range and (some say) more reliable connection. Similarly, if you live closer to a signal, the 1max, which has a 40-mile range, is also a good option for an amplified antenna. With such a range of options available in the Clearstream Max line, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find a great way to get free HD TV in the countryside.
Clearstream 2Max HDTV Antenna
The best indoor/outdoor TV antenna
Channel Master STEALTHtenna
The best outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- Easy to install
- Good value for the money
- Rugged for outdoor use
Why you should buy this: Your home falls outside the reception range of the most powerful indoor antenna on our list.
Who it’s for: Those for whom an indoor antenna simply won’t cut it.
Why we picked the Channel Master STEALTHtenna:
For most users, an indoor HDTV antenna will nab the channels you desire. There are some spots, however, where only an outdoor antenna will do the job. With a reception range of over 50 miles (sometimes more depending on your location), Channel Master’s STEALTHtenna provides incredible performance and impressive signal quality. This is thanks in part to the antenna’s tough powder-coated aluminum body that can withstand the mightiest winds and nasty weather, allowing your signal to shine regardless of how gloomy the skies are.
The Channel Master STEALTHtenna is a small and light OTA antenna, making it easy to find the proper location for mounting, and includes installation hardware for mounting the antenna to a flat wall, eaves, or fascia board. Two included U-bolts also allow you to mount the antenna to a mast or pole. Better yet, if you’re dropping your satellite service, you can use the U-bolts to mount your Channel Master to your old Dish Network hardware. For performance, easy installation, and durable design, look no further than the Channel Master STEALTHtenna.
Channel Master STEALTHtenna
The best outdoor TV antenna
PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608
Best long-range outdoor TV antenna
Pros
- 150-mile range
- Thorough installation kit with mounting poll
- Motor-based designed allows for remote turning of the antenna
Cons
- Requires a dedicated outdoor spot and running coaxial cable
Why you should buy this: You want an excellent long range antenna and don’t mind some installation work.
Who it’s for: Rural users looking for reliable long range.
Why we picked the PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608:
If you’re in a rural or mountainy spot, picking up signals could be a serious challenge for you. In this case, there’s only so much an indoor antenna can do, even today’s effective options. PBD’s outdoor TV antenna provides a solution that’s perfect if you’re having trouble catching many usable signals. The antenna, combined with its amplifier, is designed to reach up to 150 miles in range and has a lightning-protected design.
It’s a kit that’s more than ready for installation too, including a 40-foot coaxial cable, mounting pole, and a motor that you can use to adjust it with a remote controller to key in on the best direction for picking up signals at your home or business. It can also support two TVs at the same time. And despite how serious this antenna is at its job, it’s not too expensive for the average user to afford.
PBD Amplified Antenna WA-2608
Best long-range outdoor TV antenna
Antop AT-800SBS
Best versatile TV antenna
Pros
- Indoor/outdoor use
- Comes with 40 feet of cable
- Highly adjustable
- Can connect to two devices at a time
Cons
- Harder to install than most antennas
- Big and bulky
Why you should buy this: You want a dual-port antenna that can handle radio, TV, and careful adjustments.
Who it’s for: Users who want their antenna to do everything.
Why we picked the Antop AT-800SBS:
If you’re looking for not just an HDTV antenna but a comprehensive antenna that can offer lots of options, check this Antop model out. Yes, it’s big and bulky. Yep, it’s harder to install than many of our picks. But it can also do a little of everything: You can mount it indoors or outdoors, it doesn’t have to face any particular way, and it has an extra-long 40-foot cable to expand your installation options. Plus, it includes an FM antenna for picking up radio.
But the customization options on this antenna don’t end there. The power booster includes an adjustment dial so you can find the right mix between range and clarity, there’s a filter for cell signals, and you can connect two devices at the same time (one for a TV and one for a radio, for example). The kit includes both an indoor stand and wall- or pole-mounting supplies, so you should have everything you need.
Antop AT-800SBS
Best versatile TV antenna
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you figure out what HDTV antenna works best for your needs?
That depends a lot on your location and your specific entertainment space. Antennas come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit next to TVs, on top of them, on nearby windows, or even outside on the roof. Generally, larger antennas get better reception, although placement is also important — look for range numbers when buying. Other features simply aren’t as important.
Of course, if this is your first antenna you may not know how good your range should be to pick up as many nearby signals as possible. For that, you can turn to the FCC’s DTV reception map, which is the most accurate look at the available channels in your region. Areas with good reception generally don’t need to worry as much about range.
How do you set up your HDTV antenna?
The good news is that there’s no complicated setup software to worry about. Today’s TVs all include digital tuners: Plug in an antenna and go to the tuner/antenna section of your TV menu — that’s about it. Your TV should automatically search and save any available channels with a strong enough signal: Refer to your TV manual for more specific instructions. If the number of channels picked up seems low to you, you will have an option to search again with a different placement.
When and where can you find the best deals on HDTV antennas?
HDTV antennas tend to be very affordable unless you go for large, amplified versions: Several of our top picks on this list make great budget options for antennas, including models under $30. If you’re looking for a specific deal, then antennas may be discounted around holidays and Black Friday sales along with other electronics: Best Buy is a great place to check (look for items marked “Clearance” or “Price Drop,” as is Amazon, especially during Prime Day.
Where do you put a TV antenna for best reception?
While it’s still best to opt for an antenna listed with longer reception ranges for locations far from broadcast towers, there are no universal testing criteria for establishing what an antenna’s operating range is. Plus, environmental factors will impact accuracy. Otherwise, here are some general tips to ensure the best possible reception.
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Face your antennas directly toward the nearest towers, if possible. Some antennas are omnidirectional — meaning the orientation of their placement won’t dampen matters much — but you should try and get it as close to the tower’s general direction within your house as possible.
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Place your antenna with as little geographical interference (mountains, hills, trees, buildings, etc.) as possible.
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Buy an amplified antenna if you find yourself afflicted by the issues above. They’re a bit costlier, but they typically perform better in less-than-ideal conditions, and they’ll save you time (and sanity) in the long run.
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Try to keep interference from radios, cell phones, or other electronics to a minimum. This doesn’t necessarily mean keeping the antenna away from your TV. In some instances, however, the best location for an antenna may well be directly behind or under the TV.
What do VHF and UHF mean on my antenna?
There are differences in the signal types that your antenna will be picking up, and some antennas may be better at picking up certain signal frequencies than others. The two main signal types are VHF and UHF. The basic difference between the two is the channels broadcast in those frequencies. Channels 2-13 are broadcast in VHF, while channels 14-51 are UHF. Most antennas can pick up both VHF and UHF, but some can only pick up one or the other. This will be noted in an antenna’s product description.
Also important to note is that a channel’s number doesn’t always correspond to that channel’s actual broadcast frequency. This exception doesn’t typically apply unless you’re pairing your HD antenna with a third-party interface, such as a DVR OTA receiver. Tablo, for example, lists CBS 6 in Richmond, Virginia, on its channel 6 slot, which you would think requires a VHF antenna, but the content actually comes in over the UHF-bound channel 25. This should be a non-issue in most situations, but keep this outlier in mind if you ever run into any issues.
Do amplified antennas get better reception?
While we have recommendations for amplified antennas, we aren’t entirely sold on the efficacy of that technology. Despite the name, “amplified” antennas or in-line amplifiers do not boost the signal reception itself. Rather, they strengthen the signal that is being picked up, meaning if you’re getting a slightly fuzzy signal, the amplifier will try to artificially boost the quality of the TV. We’ve had varying degrees of success there, but in general there often isn’t going to be an appreciable change in quality. It’s also important to note that amplifiers should not be used in areas where signal strength is stable. This can cause noise and other picture quality problems.
Will HDTV antennas pick up 4K resolution signals?
All of the products we’ve highlighted will support the 4K-ready ATSC 3.0 standard (and you’ll also need a TV that supports 4K for optimal results). Is ATSC 3.0, a.k.a. NextGen TV, available in your area? That’s a more complicated question. These free 4K broadcasts have been steadily rolling out across the United States, especially in metropolitan areas, but they may not be available in your area quite yet. You can check current availability to learn more.
Which is better, an outdoor or indoor TV antenna?
They each have different advantages. Indoor antennas tend to be smaller, more affordable, and very easy to set up, requiring very little space to work. Outdoor antennas are larger, generally more expensive, and require careful mounting on a roof or exterior wall. While outdoor antennas tend to get better reception, they are not always a possibility depending on where you live or how much work you want to do to get signals.
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