Buying guide for best TV antennas
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If you’re thinking of cutting the cord, there are several ways to go about it. A streaming device is an excellent alternative to paying for monthly cable or satellite TV services, as it lets you subscribe only to the content you want. However, it doesn’t hurt to get a TV antenna since they’re affordable and provide access to popular networks such as NBC, ABC and CBS.
The best part about a TV antenna is that you don’t have to pay extra, and you’ll often receive broadcasts in high-definition or even ultra-high-definition quality. Unlike cable and internet services, which can go down due to power outages, a TV antenna will always be able to pick up a signal from a broadcast tower.
Our top pick is the Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V TV Antenna, which boasts a range of 60-plus miles.
Editors’ picks
Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V TV Antenna
Editors’ Favorite
Channels: 60-80+ | Resolution: 4K | Range: 60 Miles | Cable Length: NA
The Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V TV Antenna has a 60-mile range and can deliver well over 80 channels, depending on your location and signal conditions. The app allows you to search for towers and find free TV channels with your smartphone.
It’s compatible with NEXTGEN TV, 4K, 8K UHD and FHD 1080p output. It features a reflector that strengthens and directs the signal toward your TV while reducing interference that can cause pixelation or dropped channels. The bundle includes a ClearStream 2V antenna, a reflector, a 20-inch mast with a pivoting base, all-weather mounting hardware and an adjustable mast clamp.
This antenna is backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s guarantee, and the accessories have a 90-day warranty. It’s easy to install, and you can purchase a base stand for a clean setup next to your TV.
HIDB TV Antenna
Great Value
Channels: 120 | Resolution: 4K | Range: 150 Miles | Cable Length: 10 ft.
Those who want a cost-effective way to access TV channels without a subscription will find plenty to love about the HIDB TV Antenna. This indoor digital TV antenna delivers free over-the-air local channels and supports 4K-ready TVs.
It works with any TV that has a coaxial input and receives major broadcast networks, such as FOX, ABC, PBS and NBC. The built-in signal filter helps reduce interference for clearer picture quality and more stable reception. Its omnidirectional design allows the antenna to pick up signals from multiple directions without constant repositioning. Plus, the strong magnetic base provides flexible placement on TVs, shelves and other flat surfaces.
It includes a 10-foot coaxial cable, which makes it easy to position the antenna to get the best signal. Setup is quick and effortless, and all you have to do to start watching is scan for channels.
Channel Master FLATenna
Best for Small Spaces
Channels: 999 | Resolution: 4K | Range: 35 Miles | Cable Length: 12 ft.
The Channel Master FLATenna is the best antenna for those who want access to hundreds of free TV channels. It offers future-ready compatibility as it supports ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV and 4K broadcasts, and provides access to local networks, such as ABC, CBS and FOX.
It boasts an ultra-thin, flexible design for a clean setup and receives over-the-air broadcast signals from up to 35 miles away. It’s easier to install than an outdoor antenna, and it works with all HD TVs and converter boxes. It features reversible black and white sides, which are both paintable so that it matches your home’s decor.
In addition to the antenna, you’ll get installation hardware and a 12-foot coaxial cable with enhanced shielding to protect from electromagnetic and radio frequency Interference. Plus, you can choose from three installation options: wall, window or lay flat on a tabletop.
What to know before buying a TV antenna
Over-the-air TV
Over-the-air TV is already built into your TV, which can increase the channels available to you, but you need an antenna to access it. However, before you buy one, it’s best to determine your preferred channels and invest accordingly in the product that will give you the best experience.
Preferred channels
An essential step in your quest for TV channel access and reception is determining the number of potential channels available in your area. You can do this by visiting a website like Channel Master and entering your home address or ZIP code. The website will then provide you with information about the available channels in your area and the signal strength of each. Note the channels you are most interested in and their distance from your residence, which will be handy when shopping for an antenna.
Indoor vs. outdoor
An indoor antenna connects to your TV and must be placed where it can get a clear signal, such as near a window in the living room. These indoor models are compact and easy to install, but because their signal must travel through walls and they are often low to the ground, the signal does not usually travel as far. The best indoor TV antennas typically provide approximately a 50-mile range, which is shorter than what you can get from an outdoor antenna. However, some indoor antennas work well beyond that range.
Outdoor antennas are more complicated to install but more powerful in terms of long-range reception. The primary reason for the better performance is that they are usually installed at greater altitudes, and fewer obstructions exist between the antenna and the signals it is trying to reach. Although the installation may be more complicated, this technology is an excellent choice if your goal is to access faraway channels.
Channel frequency
Over-the-air channels broadcast via three frequency types. The first type is Very High Frequency-Low, where channels 2 through 6 sit and the second type is VHF-High, where channels 7 to 13 sit. The third type is Ultra-High Frequency, where channels 14 to 36 are found.
Not all TV antennas cover these ranges, so you need to figure out which ones you need for the channels you want. As previously mentioned, it is critical to take note of the actual channel number, which may differ from the number of the channel on your TV. This information can be acquired through TV Fool and similar signal analysis websites.
Directional vs. multi-directional
Multi-directional antennas work equally well in all directions, whereas directional ones focus on one. If the broadcast towers you aspire to reach are relatively close to you, the type of antenna you choose shouldn’t impact the result too much. However, if you hope to reach a faraway tower, a directional antenna pointed toward the broadcast tower will increase your chance of picking up the signal at a long range.
Signal interference
You’ll inevitably encounter signal interference at some point, which can cause signal dropouts, pixelation or complete loss. To minimize your chance of interference, get a low-noise antenna with audio-filtering technology that eliminates radio station signals, wireless radios and cell phone signals, which are common causes of interference.
TV antenna features
Range
Once you have compiled your list of desired channels, determine how far the furthest channel is from your residence and choose an antenna that covers this distance at a minimum for better reception. The distance your antenna can cover depends on the type of antenna, as technology varies from product to product. Generally, indoor TV antennas have shorter ranges than outdoor TV antennas. A primary reason for this is the degree of interference from other electronic devices inside the home.
ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV
Some markets now broadcast using ATSC 3.0, also known as NextGen TV. NextGen TV offers better picture quality and improved audio. Although you don’t need a special antenna to receive these signals, your TV must have an ATSC 3.0 tuner or an external tuner box. If you don’t have a tuner, you’ll only receive standard over-the-air channels normally.
Installation
The installation process for most digital TV antennas is uncomplicated, and most come with instructions on how to set them up and test them, along with troubleshooting tips you can turn to if you encounter issues. Regardless of the antenna type, ensure it is securely mounted so it doesn’t fall off or move out of position. Some indoor TV antennas employ suction cups to be placed on windows, but these don’t always work well. For security, you may need to occasionally reposition the antenna or find another way to secure it.
Cable length
Most TV antennas include a length of coaxial cable to connect the antenna to the TV. If the included cord is too short, it may not reach your TV. If it is too long, you’ll have extra cording that must be stashed or stored out of the way. You could purchase another separately if the included coaxial cable doesn’t suit your needs.
Design
Design is primarily a concern for indoor antennas positioned in a visible location. Most models today are flat, rectangular devices that resemble a piece of paper and come in your choice of black or white, while some larger models resemble slim, rectangular boxes.
Tips
- You can install a rotator on your TV antenna if you want to pick up weak signals that are in different directions. It’s also best to install your indoor antenna in a window facing the direction of the TV tower you’re trying to connect to.
- Signal strength and quality affect the number of TV channels you get as well as the strength of your TV reception. If you live in a rural area, installing an outdoor HDTV antenna above your roof is considered one of the best routes to good reception.
- Cord cutters aren’t the only ones who get value from owning a TV antenna. Even with a cable subscription, you can often get better reception during live TV events with an antenna. You can get an enhanced picture with an antenna regardless of what you’re watching.
- Before buying an HDTV antenna, ensure you have a TV that receives high-definition signals. Also, check that you use the TV inputs that optimize sound and picture quality.
- If you don’t own your residence, check with your landlord before installing an outdoor TV antenna. Most landlords have no qualms with renters installing an antenna on their rented space, but community space, such as the roof of a building, is another story.
How we analyzed
We considered multiple TV antennas with varying specs and features. The best models offer access to hundreds of free TV channels and have integrated features for enhancing picture quality and maintaining a stable signal at all times. We also considered customer reviews and included the most popular TV antennas among cord-cutters.
FAQ
Q. How much does a TV antenna cost?
A. Indoor TV antennas range in price from about $10 to $50, while outdoor TV antennas cost $50 to $150. The greater the range and frequencies it can pick up, the more it will cost.
Q. What channels will I be able to receive with my TV antenna?
A. It depends on what channels are available in your area and the type of antenna you choose. As previously noted, you can determine what is available in your area by entering your address into a signal analysis website. You can then use the information provided to determine which TV antenna would be the best purchase.
Q. I have an older TV. Can I still use a new TV antenna?
A. Yes. However, you may need a converter box to make your older TV compatible with a modern antenna. The reason for this has to do with digital tuning. A digital tuner is a built-in TV element that enables a TV to receive digital signals, and since 2009, all over-the-air broadcasts — even free ones — have been digital.
