Modern outdoor TV antennas have incredible reception and will deliver high-definition digital video directly to your television. Gone are the days of rabbit ears and white noise— today’s best outdoor TV antennas can receive numerous HD channels from transmission towers that are dozens of miles away and turn them into crisp, high-quality television feeds. It’s time for you to cut out your monthly cable bill by purchasing your own outdoor TV antenna.
After reviewing dozens of outdoor TV antennas we have identified the best available for your home. Considering factors such as reception strength, transmission frequency compatibility, and overall convenience we have chosen our top picks and put together a detailed rundown of the rest to give you a look at the best on the market today.
We’ve chosen the 1byone Wing Digital HDTV Antenna as our overall top pick. This is a compact antenna that can be mounted just about anywhere, and it has bi-directional reception nodes that users applaud for having unwavering signal strength and reliability.
The 5 Top-Rated Outdoor TV Antennas
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Outdoor TV Antenna Overall | 1byone Wing Digital HDTV Antenna | 4.8 |
Best Outdoor HDTV Antenna | Winegard Platinum Series TV Antenna | 4.4 |
Best Budget Outdoor TV Antenna | ANI-AV Outdoor Digital Antenna | 4.3 |
Best Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antenna | AntennasDirect Bowtie TV Antenna | 4.2 |
Best Outdoor TV Antenna with Mount | AntennasDirect Clearstream TV Antenna | 4.1 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Outdoor TV Antenna Overall: 1byone Wing Digital HDTV Antenna
The unique design of the 1byone Wing Digital HDTV Antenna is more compact and weather-resistant than traditional TV antennas while attaining excellent HD signal reception. Its winged design slices through blustering winds and its shell has an anti-UV coating that is also waterproof and features a 4G LTE signal interference blocker. This antenna is durable and prepared to take all that mother nature can throw at it.
Achieving an 80-mile+ anticipated reception is no small feat for such a compact antenna, and users of this antenna have claimed to receive clear transmissions from TV towers as far as 200 miles from their homes. The bi-directional receivers essentially cover all 360-degrees of possible reception. A built-in amplifier conveniently amplifies incoming signals.
UHF, VHF, and HDTV signals come in clear and are displayed on your TV with the vivid resolution and high-fidelity you would expect from modern HD channels. This unit is 4K HDTV and ATSC 3.0 ready for ultra HD resolution and 3D video. Countless users applaud this outdoor TV antenna for performing as well as, if not better than, other much larger and more cumbersome rooftop antennas.
1byone Wing Digital HDTV Antenna Key Features:
- 4K HDTV and ATSC 3.0 compatible
- 80-mile range
- Tools-free installation
- Built-in amplifier
Best Outdoor HDTV Antenna: Winegard Platinum Series TV Antenna
Ready to reach far and wide for every HD signal in the sky, the Winegard Platinum Series TV Antenna is a trustworthy antenna with a few tricks up its sleeve. This device can be paired with popular streaming devices such as Roku, Chromecast, or Fire TV for all-access and easy-to-use media browsing, and the antenna can split its signal to up to four different TVs.
The 45-mile reception range is the bare minimum you can expect to achieve with this outdoor TV antenna, but don’t be surprised if you pick up transmission signals from much further away, especially if you choose to add on a Winegard Boost amplifier to extend its range. By default, this HDTV antenna is rated to perform at all but the violet color code levels as rated by the Consumer Electronics Association, meaning that it can clearly receive all signal ranges except for from the absolute most distant towers. An amplifier would push it over the edge to compete with the largest antennas on the market.
Being that it accepts all HD signals and is set up to receive ultra HD signals when they become available, this antenna is the right choice for reliable HD reception and stunning video quality.
Winegard Platinum Series TV Antenna Key Features:
- 4K HDTV and ATSC 3.0 compatible
- 45-mile reception range
- Pairs with popular streaming devices
- Rated for yellow, green, light green, red, and blue CEA color codes
Best Budget Outdoor TV Antenna: ANI-AV Outdoor Digital Antenna
There’s little more that needs to be said about the ANI-AV Outdoor Digita Antenna than that it gets the job done well. This is a small-to-medium-sized antenna in which the elements fold out and lock into place. It has a weather-resistant housing, can be combined with an amplifier for enhanced range, and comes supplied with its own mounting brackets, though you will have to supply the mounting pole.
Paired with a solid three-year warranty, this budget outdoor TV antenna is an extraordinary value. Users claim that it is a surprisingly rugged antenna that more often than not performs well above expectations. Many people claim to get reception from beyond the advertised 75-mile range and they can acquire dozens of HD channels, as well as FM radio transmissions, with the utmost clarity.
ANI-AV Outdoor Digital Antenna Key Features:
- 75-mile reception range
- UHF, VHF, HD, and FM reception
- Three-year warranty
Best Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antenna: AntennasDirect Bowtie TV Antenna
The patented multi-directional bowtie elements on the AntennasDirect Bowtie TV Antenna enable pinpoint transmission accuracy that’s guaranteed to be received clearly across a 70-mile radius in multiple directions. This antenna’s split rotating elements are ideal for a household that is situated between two TV transmission towers, or clusters of towers, because its elements can be directed toward both sources simultaneously.
Depending upon your needs, this product can be optioned in numerous ways at numerous price points. You can opt for fewer elements if you do not need the complete 70-mile range, and you can add on mounting hardware or an amplifier at an additional cost.
This unit will transfer immaculate 1080p video and audio to your HDTV, and it is ready to receive 4K and ATSC 3.0 signals when they become available. The antenna arrives completely assembled out of the box, and mounting is easy with the correct hardware.
Antennas Direct Bowtie TV Antenna Key Features:
- 70-mile reception range
- Eight rotatable antenna elements
- Lifetime warranty
Best Outdoor TV Antenna with Mount: AntennasDirect Clearstream TV Antenna
Simple, streamlined, and fully adjustable, the AntennasDirect Clearstream TV Antenna is an all-around user-friendly device. It’s a compact, lightweight antenna that arrives fully assembled and comes equipped with a simple, yet strong mount. Indoor or outdoor, there’s nowhere you can’t install this antenna.
The mount itself features a 20″ mast and a pivoting bracket that enables multi-directional positioning of the antenna array. All components of this Clearstream TV Antenna, including the mounting hardware, are weather-protected and come backed by a lifetime parts warranty.
Capable of receiving all HDTV signals in a 70-mile radius, this outdoor TV antenna is a fantastic option for anyone, especially those who don’t want to bother with finding and purchasing a proper-fitting antenna mount kit.
Antennas Direct Clearstream TV Antenna Key Features:
- 70-mile reception range
- Four antenna elements on a rotating mount
- Lifetime warranty
Who Should Buy an Outdoor TV Antenna
You should buy an outdoor TV antenna if you want to cut cable and satellite bills out of your life for good. Modern digital outdoor TV antennas get fantastic reception up to 150 miles away or further, and they can send high-resolution transmissions straight to your HDTVs. Getting 1080p, 4K, or even 3D television is not a problem.
This one-time purchase could save you hundreds of dollars annually. Whether you’re a city dweller or rural rancher, nearly everyone is within the range of multiple TV transmission towers that feature many of their favorite channels.
Once your TV signal is set, you might want to upgrade your sound system to truly take in the glory of HD television. We’ve got the scoop on the best soundbars, home theater speakers, and complete wireless home theater systems, and you should check them out.
Important Features to Consider
Before purchasing a wireless charger make sure to think about these important considerations.
- TV tower locations. Before deciding on an outdoor TV antenna you should know where your local transmission towers are located and which ones, in particular, you want to receive transmissions from. Check the TV Broadcast Tower Locator to see what towers surround your home. Now that you know where the towers are, you can purchase an appropriate directional, multi-directional, or 360-degree motorized antenna to best suit your reception needs.
- Weather. If you live in an area that frequently sees strong winds, heavy snows, or powerful storms you will want an outdoor TV antenna that can take a beating. Keep an eye out for models that feature steel mounts and powder-coated metals for supreme weather resistance.
- Size. A vast array of shapes and sizes can be found in the antennas on our list. Those who live in apartments or cannot otherwise mount a large antenna should look at the smaller antennas on this list, particularly the indoor/outdoor varieties. The larger the antenna, though, the better reception it usually can get, so go big if you’ve got the means to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an outdoor TV antenna and how does it work?
Outdoor TV antennas are a money-saving alternative to cable and satellite television subscriptions. Most people can cut out their monthly cable bill with a one-time outdoor TV antenna purchase that can receive as many if not more channels free of charge.
Modern outdoor TV antennas are not like the unreliable antennas of yore. These modern antennas can receive UHF, VHF, and HDTV frequencies, and many are capable of receiving Ultra HDTV 4k and ATSC 3.0 3D signals. Everything is transmitted digitally to your HDTV for a crisp and reliable viewing experience.
TV transmission towers are located everywhere from big cities and to way out in the rural countryside. Most people will have no issue connecting to a number of transmission towers with a modern outdoor TV antenna. You can check the FCC’s website to see the transmission tower signal strength at your home.
How high does an outdoor antenna need to be?
The higher the better to get uninterrupted reception, but there is no hard limit. Outdoor antennas will benefit most by being mounted on top of your roof or on a tall pole.
Do you need an HD antenna for each TV?
A separate antenna for each TV is not required, though it would ensure the best reception and video quality for each television. Alternatively, an outdoor TV antenna could be connected to your home’s existing cable system and thus connected to a number of TVs, or you can use a cable splitter to divide the signal to multiple TVs.
Do smart TVs need an antenna?
If your smart TV is capable of receiving over-the-air transmissions on its own it is likely to be far less efficient than a premium outdoor TV antenna. We advise that you purchase a separate antenna to get the best signal, the best video quality, and the most number of channels possible.
Other Solar Battery Chargers We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other outdoor TV Antennas. Even though they didn’t make our five best outdoor TV antenna list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your television needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Budget Outdoor TV Antennas
- Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antennas
- Outdoor HDTV Antennas
- Outdoor TV Antennas with Mounts
Budget Outdoor TV Antennas
Boostwaves Premium Digital TV Antenna
The Boostwaves Premium Digital TV Antenna is a compact and sharp-looking HDTV antenna that can be rotated 360 degrees via your TV’s remote control. This little antenna boasts an impressive 125-mile reception range and its ability to rotate will help you find distant signals.
Key Features:
- Remote-controlled 360-degree rotation
- 125-mile reception range
- Two-year warranty
Cost: $30
The Channel Master has been proven to outperform other antennas that claim a strong reception range in side-by-side comparisons. This brand has a number of high-quality premium antennas for sale, and this budget-friendly offering is cut from the same cloth.
Key Features:
- 50-mile reception range
- Durable powder-coated aluminum
- Supports ATSC 3.0 and 4k broadcasts
Cost: $30
Ematic Rotating Outdoor TV Antenna
Packed with its own remote control for convenient operation, the Ematic Rotating Outdoor TV Antenna is a great value option. The antenna’s motor will swivel the device to find clear signals within a whopping 150-mile range.
Key Features:
- 150-mile reception range
- Remote-controlled 360-degree rotation
- HDTV up to 1080p
Cost: $34
Homevision Technology Digital Outdoor Antenna
The biggest, and perhaps the best, budget-friendly antenna on our list, the Homevision Technology Digital Outdoor Antenna is a great value option for those who can mount this large of an antenna. Users praise it for its excellent signal reception.
Key Features:
- 70-mile reception range
- HDTV up to 1080p
- 21″ x 33″ x 4″ dimensions
Cost: $37
The SuperSonic Motorized Antenna is a fan-favorite among remote-controlled rotating antennas. This unit picks up an exceptionally wide range of frequencies, and it can receive all UHF, VHF, and HDTV signals up to 1080p resolution.
Key Features:
- Remote-controlled 360-degree rotation
- HDTV up to 1080p
- Wide frequency range of 47-860MHz
Multi-directional Outdoor TV Antennas
1byone Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antenna
The 1byone Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antenna is a weather-resistant four-bay, foldable HDTV antenna that will receive UHF, VHF, 4K, and 3D signals. Users are overall satisfied with the number of channels they can pick up with this fairly compact antenna.
Key Features:
- 180-degree receiving range
- 65-mile reception range
- Foldable panels
Cost: $100
AntennasDirect Clearstream 5 Antenna
Designed with patented technology, the AntennasDirect Clearstream 5 Antenna boasts class-leading reception and picture quality thanks to its wide frequency reception range. All parts of this antenna come back by a lifetime warranty.
Key Features:
- 65-mile reception range
- Mounting hardware included
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $100
AntennasDirect High Gain Bowtie Antenna
The AntennasDirect High Gain Bowtie Antenna has a 180-degree receiving range with rotating panels that can be directed toward the strong signal sources. Reviewers appreciate that this antenna can be directed toward multiple signals at once and some have claimed to double the number of channels they receive over lesser antennas.
Key Features:
- 60-mile reception range
- 180-degree receiving range
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $76
With 360-degree motorized rotation, the Lava HD Rotating TV Antenna can adjust to any signal from any direction on the fly with the touch of a button. Utilize the remote control for quick and easy adjustments to find the best HDTV signals available within a 150-mile radius.
Key Features:
- Rotating motor with remote control
- 150-mile reception range
- Connect up to four TVs at once
Cost: $65
The USA Digital HD TV Antenna proudly states that it has a 150-mile range, and users agree that this antenna is capable of receiving signals within that expansive range, if not even further. Reviewers have used this antenna far away from urban life in remote cabins and backcountry hunting shelters with great success.
Key Features:
- 360-degree remote-controlled rotation
- 150-mile reception range
- Digital converter not needed
Outdoor HDTV Antennas
Channel Master Masterpiece TV Antenna
Durable and strong, the Channel Master Masterpiece TV Antenna is one of the best options for those who live in tumultuous weather zones. The powder-coated aluminum will withstand a heavy beating from rain, snow, and ice, and the strength of the hardware is rated to withstand winds up to 100mph.
Key Features:
- 100-mile reception range
- Durable powder-coated finish
- Wind-resistant up to 100mph
Cost: $200
Channel Master Outdoor TV Antenna
A burly medium-sized antenna, the Channel Master Outdoor TV Antenna excels at picking up weak signals with its line-of-sight outdoor antenna design. Smaller sizes are available for those who cannot mount this large of an antenna.
Key Features:
- 100-mile reception range
- 16-feet long for excellent reception
- Picks up UHF, VHF, FM, and HD
Cost: $150
HDFrequency Cable Cutter TV Antenna
A combination indoor/outdoor antenna, the HDFrequency Cable Cutter TV Antenna can be mounted wherever best fits your needs. This product is manufactured by a New York startup is boasts stellar interference scores as tested in the signal-busy metropolis of Manhattan.
Key Features:
- 60-mile reception range
- Indoor or outdoor mounting
- American made in New York
Cost: $50
The Lava HD OmniPro HDTV Antenna has a modest and unassuming design that’ll blend in with a household’s exterior aesthetic better than traditional antennas. The antenna is fitted to a double-jointed arm that enables omnidirectional manual rotation of the device.
Key Features:
- 50-mile reception range
- DC 12V power supply needed
- Anti-UV and waterproof housing
Cost: $80
Designed for the modern home, the Marathon Outdoor TV Antenna is a whisper-quiet indoor/outdoor TV antenna that looks great no matter where you mount it. It’s easy to install and users are happy with its overall performance.
Key Features:
- 100-mile reception range
- Indoor or outdoor mounting
- Quiet 3.5dB performance
Cost: $160
Winegard FreeVision Digital HDTV Antenna
Step into the modern age with the Winegard FreeVision Digital HDTV Antenna. This unit is capable of receiving all current and upcoming HD signals, it pairs with streaming devices so that you can easily navigate through all of your programming options, and it comes paired with a free HDTV tower finding app.
Key Features:
- 30-mile reception range
- ATSC 3.0 and 4K ready and pairs with streaming devices
- Free Winegard HDTV tower finder app
Outdoor TV Antennas with Mounts
AntennasDirect Clearstream 2V Antenna
Well known as one of the most trustworthy antenna brands, AntennasDirect slaps a lifetime warranty onto all of their products. This Clearstream 2v Antenna has weather-resistant parts that will be replaced for free if they ever fail, and the unit’s reception is as good as the top competitors in its class.
Key Features:
- 60-mile reception range
- Weather-resistant mounting hardware
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $130
The Mohu Sky 60 TV Antenna is a sleek piece of hardware that installs easier than most and can be mounted either indoors or outdoors. Its multi-direction base allows for partial rotation, and the antenna is rated “storm-ready” due to its aerodynamic design and simple construction.
Key Features:
- 75-mile reception range
- Easy mount and installation
- One-year warranty
Cost: $105
The RCA Amplified Outdoor Antenna doesn’t call attention to itself. This flat antenna is held up on a two-jointed arm that can be manipulated to angle the device in a number of directions.
Key Features:
- 360-degree reception range
- Multidirectional arm joints
- Modest design
Cost: $90
RCA Outdoor Digital TV Antenna
The RCA Outdoor Digital TV Antenna is a classic antenna made of robust materials and comes packaged with heavy-duty mounting hardware. The reception quality is excellent and receives signals up to 1080p in resolution.
Key Features:
- 100-miles reception range
- 72 inches long
- Heavy-duty locking mast clamp included
Cost: $145