Summary
You may watch local news and sports without having to pay for a cable subscription if you have the finest TV antennas. Additionally, these antennas can augment the top streaming services with programming from many other channels, like FOX, CBS, NBC, ABC, and others. In the event that you are a cord-cutter or a cord-never, antennas make it possible for you to continue spending money on entertainment without negatively impacting your finances.
the top television antennas
So, how can we determine which ones are the most effective? From simple domestic antennas to amplified versions and bigger outside antennas, our TV antenna evaluations combine extensive testing and hands-on research to determine which TV antennas are the best available. These antennas range from basic sizes to larger sizes. Additionally, we are regularly evaluating new models to ensure that there is no newer antenna that has outperformed any of the older antennas that are included on this list. In addition to the equipment that is included and the simplicity of setup and operation, we take into consideration the performance of the system, the number of channels that are brought in, and whether or not those channels are viewable.
Note from the editor: This list was verified on May 24th, and it is continuing to be accurate.
A COMPLETE LIST OF THE DESCRIPTIONS OF THE BEST TV ANTENNAS
1. Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro
When it comes to the greatest TV antenna in general, it is difficult to find a better option than the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro. To attract a greater number of stations, the broad design is expanded. This bulky antenna has a design that is larger and thicker than the majority of flat antennas. It also has an inbuilt amplifier and a signal-strength meter, which will assist you in locating the best location for drawing in channels.
In addition, it is able to draw in channels, making use of its large surface area to acquire more than forty stations that are really worth watching, exceeding some of our favorite indoor antennas. There is a one-of-a-kind detachable coax cable that comes with the antenna, as well as a USB power cable that is three feet long and can be used to power the amplifier. However, the antenna is wrapped up in the box, and it will need some time to unfurl before it can be left in a flat position. All of the peculiarities, however, are well worth it because of the reliable reception that it provides. The Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro is a superb indoor antenna for suburban regions that may need a boost in order to get the maximum number of channels.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 65 Miles
- Channels Received: 42
- Amplified: Yes
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: 16 Feet
- Size: 12 x 21.5 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- Solid reception
-
Simple set up
-
Detachable cable
REASONS TO AVOID
- Sizable presence on your wall
BEST ANTENNA FOR BOTH INDOORS AND OUTDOORS
2. Antop AT-800SBS HD Smart Panel Antenna
A significant number of the indoor/outdoor versions that we have evaluated are easily surpassed by the Antop AT-800SBS HD Smart Panel, which is designed for use both indoors and outside and has some of the greatest performance that we have seen. Additionally, it comes with mounting gear that is included, an adjustable amplifier, and an optional FM connection for radio, making it a flexible finest HD antenna choice for anybody who is serious about ending their cable subscription.
Although the Antop AT-800SBS comes with a table-top stand that can be used inside, this 85-mile antenna performed very well when it was exposed to the weather, as it was able to pick up 68 stations that could be seen. A cable that is forty feet in length is supplied for hassle-free installation, and the amplifier that can be adjusted allows you to dial in the appropriate level of power boost to assist you in grabbing the stations that you desire. It is without a doubt the greatest indoor/outdoor antenna that we have tested, and the premium price is well justified.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 85 Miles
- Channels Received: 68
- Amplified: Yes
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: 40 Feet (plus two, 5-foot coaxial cables)
- Size: 21.7 x 10.4 x 4.1 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- Excellent reception
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Variety of mounting materials included
REASONS TO AVOID
- More expensive than most
- Bulky
“THE BEST ANTENNA FOR THE BUDGET”
3. 1byone Amplified HDTV Antenna
The 1byone Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna is a straightforward indoor antenna that provides everything you want to terminate your cable subscription. It has a range of fifty miles and comes with an amplifier, and it is priced at a price that is rather affordable. It is not only a top-seller on Amazon, but it is also one of the best TV antennas that we have examined. Because of its sleek packaging and simple black design, it is a very popular product.
In addition to being just 13.3 inches by 9.3 inches, the antenna comes with everything you need to attach it to the television, including a coaxial cable that is 10 feet long and adhesive patches that are available for installation. The straightforward construction and the amplifier that was supplied provided dozens of channels that could be seen, and it was able to connect to any power outlet or USB connection. There is a solid reason why the 1byone is listed as one of the best sellers on Amazon: it is not expensive and it works really well.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 50 Miles
- Channels Received: 46
- Amplified: Yes
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: 10 Feet
- Size: 13.25 x 9.25 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- All necessary components included
- Moderately priced
- Easy setup
REASONS TO AVOID
- Inconsistent performer
THE BEST ANTENNA FOR THE OUTDOORS
4. Winegard Elite 7550 Outdoor HDTV Antenna
One cannot always rely on an indoor antenna to meet one’s needs. In situations when you want an antenna that is capable of providing exceptional reception, the Winegard Elite 7550 is the most intelligent choice and the most effective TV antenna for outdoor installation. Even though it has a somewhat higher price tag, the Winegard Elite 7550 is well worth the investment since it provided an astounding 73 channels throughout our testing. Whether you live in a densely populated metropolis or a rural hamlet, this outdoor HDTV should be able to fulfill your needs. It is capable of bringing in a greater number of channels and providing a stronger signal than any indoor model can.
The Winegard Elite 7550 is well worth the $120 price tag since it allows you to get dozens of free channels for less than the cost of a month’s cable subscription. If you are having trouble obtaining the local stations that you want, or if you just want better and more consistent coverage, the Winegard Elite 7550 is the perfect solution.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 70 Miles
- Channels Received: 73
- Amplified: No
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: N/A
- Size: 30 x 17.5 x 5 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- Excellent receptio
- Excellent interference suppression
REASONS TO AVOID
- Somewhat loose construction
- Plastic roof mount.
INDOOR/OUTDOOR ANTENNA RELATING TO THE BUDGET
5. ClearStream MAX-V HDTV Antenna
The ClearStream MAX-V is a highly competent antenna that offers more stations than even competitive amplified antennas, including ones that cost far more. Its appearance may leave something to be desired, but it is a very capable antenna. It is one of the greatest TV antennas that we have examined, and it is especially useful if you want to increase your over-the-air TV reception.
In addition to being able to function both inside and outdoors, the ClearStream MAX-V from Antennas Direct is priced affordably and has the capability to collect stations that are as far away as sixty miles away. Not only did it perform better than many of our favorite indoor antennas, but it also finished on par with some of the top outdoor antennas. This makes it an excellent option for placing on a roof, hanging in an attic, or just tucking it out of sight, which may be challenging due to the bulky figure-8 shape.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 60 Miles
- Channels Received: 51
- Amplified: No
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: N/A
- Size: 17.25 x 27.5 x 3.5 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- Good receptio
- Works indoors or out
REASONS TO AVOID
- An eyesore in living rooms
- Necessary cable not included
THE LARGEST ANTENNA EXISTING INDOORS
As is the case with our preferred indoor antenna, the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro, the Gateway Plus has a range of sixty miles and can draw in hundreds of channels. Additionally, it has four front LEDs that indicate the strength of the signal that it is receiving during transmission.
When it comes to reception, the Gateway Plus is meant to be multi-directional, which means that it may be positioned either forwards or backwards and should still be able to receive a signal regardless of the orientation. With that being stated, the LED signal indication lights are located on the front of the antenna; thus, you will most likely want those lights to face inside so that you can see them.
We found the Mohu Gateway Plus to be a very reliable device. It was able to pick up 41 channels, and an incredible 34 of them played without any noticeable issues. On a bright day, the Mohu Gateway Plus was able to outperform our top TV antenna, the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro. This is despite the fact that there were still instances of stuttering, particularly in the morning when there was bad weather.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Range: 60 Miles
- Channels Received: 41
- Amplified: Yes
- 1080p Reception: Yes
- Cable Length: 10 Feet
- Size: 8.25 x 11.75 x 2.5 inches
REASONS TO BUY
- Solid reception
- LED indicators
- Multi-directional design
REASONS TO AVOID
- cord isn’t replaceable
- Amplifier can make signal worse
- Pricier than the Leaf Supreme Pro
BEST TV ANTENNAS TEST RESULTS
| Antenna | Price | Range | Channels Received | Amplified |
| Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro | $69 | 65 miles | 42 | Yes |
| Winegard Elite 7550 | $114 | 70 miles | 73 | No |
| 1byone Amplified Antenna | $18 | 50 miles | 46 | Yes |
| Antop AT-800SBS | $149 | 85 miles | 68 | Yes |
| ClearStream MAX-V | $69 | 60 miles | 51 | No |
| Mohu Gateway Plus | $69 | 60 miles | 41 | Yes |
Choosing the right TV antenna for your needs is a challenge
Should you be in the market for a television antenna, you are in luck since there is no other alternative that can provide you with live television for the most affordable price possible: free! However, before you go out and get the very first television antenna that you come across at the shop, you need be certain that you are purchasing one that is suitable for your needs.
The location and range of the antenna: If you are in or near a city, there is a strong possibility that you will be able to get by with a tiny indoor antenna. This is because there will be several stations within a radius of ten to twenty miles that can be drawn in without the need for a large aerial or powered amplifier. If you are located more than thirty miles away from the tower that transmits your local broadcast, you will need to upgrade to an amplified model. In order to increase the strength of the signal it receives, any antenna that is rated for a distance of fifty miles or more will either be a huge outside one or come with an amplifier, if not both.
Indoor versus outdoor: The decision of whether or not to purchase an outdoor antenna will be heavily influenced by the building you are in and the environment that surrounds it. This is due to the fact that obstructions such as house walls and even trees may block signal from reaching an indoor antenna. An outdoor antenna is often bigger than an indoor antenna, and it functions more effectively when it is installed as high as it can be, with a rooftop mast being the optimal location.
Amplification or non-amplification: An amplified antenna makes use of an additional signal strength booster, which may assist in the transmission of weak signals by providing them with a little bit of more energy. On the other hand, this implies that you will need to give up another power outlet and find another gadget to connect together. It also implies that the price will be somewhat higher.
Indoor antennas that are not amplified typically range in price from twenty dollars to forty dollars; however, there are a great number of inexpensive TV antennas that are available for less than twenty dollars and give satisfactory performance. The performance of an amplified antenna is superior, and the price range for such an antenna is between $30 and $100. Investing in an outside antenna, which may cost up to one hundred dollars, is recommended for optimal performance.
This is the first step in cutting the cord or pulling in free local channels, and it is accomplished by purchasing an antenna. You do not need to spend a lot of money; the finest inexpensive TV antennas perform a terrific job, and even a pair of bunny ears that cost twelve dollars may do the thing. In addition, you do not even need a television to do this. (If you are interested in learning about USB tuners that do not need a television. I have just found out about a new method to cut the cord, and there is no monthly price to do so.)
On the other hand, just possessing an antenna will not immediately resolve all of your issues with over-the-air television. It is true that improved antennas and amplifiers that are optional will go a great way toward increasing the number of channels available, but this is just one component of the equation.
It is highly recommended that you do research in advance to identify the range of antenna that you want, as well as whether you want an interior model or an antenna that is designed for outdoor installation. It is recommended that you begin by visiting AntennaWeb.org, which allows you to input your location or ZIP code and provides information about the stations that are airing in your region, as well as the distance between the broadcast towers.
During the process of rolling out ATSC 3.0 to new cities, are you concerned about future-proofing it? In accordance with the new standard, the good news is that your current antenna will continue to function, and it may even be able to draw in more channels. Unfortunately, you will be need to purchase either a new tuner or an ATSC 3.0-equipped television, both of which are only now making their way onto the market.
Check out our other recommendations for television antennas, which will assist you in ensuring that you are properly equipped and set up for the greatest possible reception:
What are the benefits of using a TV antenna with streaming devices and smart TVs?
There is still space for over-the-air (OTA) broadcast television, despite the fact that streaming services such as Netflix and HBO Max may be assuming a more prominent role in the living room. An HDTV antenna can still give lots of wonderful content to watch, and having a smart TV or one of the top streaming devices does not restrict you from utilizing an antenna. This is true whether you want to gain free access to local news or just want to get more sports without having to pay out money for another membership service.
All of the top smart TVs for streaming also come equipped with built-in tuners that allow them to draw in broadcast channels. Additionally, the process of programming your TV channels is an automated one, as the TV will automatically search for stations and put up a browsable channel guide in a matter of minutes.
Furthermore, a number of streaming devices are designed with over-the-air content in mind. To give you an example, the Amazon Fire TV Cube has the capability to switch over to the tuner that is already integrated into your television without requiring you to switch TV inputs or juggle additional remote controllers. In addition, you may purchase a digital video recorder (DVR) such as the Amazon Fire TV Recast, which enables you to record over-the-air (OTA) material and view it all via the same Fire TV interface that your television may already be using.
IN WHAT WAYS DO WE VERIFY THE BEST TV ANTENNAS?
Each of the television antennas that we evaluate is put through its paces in the same room. Each antenna is linked to the same television, which ensures that the TV tuner is always the same. Additionally, each antenna is positioned in the same manner in order to provide results that are similar.
From our position, which is only a few miles outside of a big metropolitan area, we are able to give an ideal testing site for antenna reception of any range. This is because antennas that are more sensitive and have a longer range are able to bring in a greater number of channels. In addition to this, it provides us with the opportunity to evaluate the quality of the reception by determining whether or not the channels in question are clear and able to be seen. More channels will be pulled in by the better antennas, and there will be a greater number of results that can be seen.
It’s possible that the findings of our tests won’t hold true for you. It is possible that your personal channel selection will vary significantly depending on the number of stations that transmit in your region as well as the specific geographical obstacles that interfere with the transmission of an over-the-air signal, such as mountains, trees, and buildings.
