If you’re interested in cord cutting, one of the most important tools you’ll need is an antenna to capture over-the-air channels. Depending on where you live, it’s possible to view anywhere from 20 to 30 channels for free.
We’re taking a look at seven of the best outdoor TV antenna options.
Before Buying an Outdoor Antenna
Before purchasing an outdoor antenna to receive free, available television signals, the first place to head to is the Federal Communications Commission site.
The FCC’s DTV Reception Maps feature will allow you to check for signals that are available at an exact address, zip code, or city anywhere in the United States. The map provides information like the direction and location of a tower.
That distance information will help you select the best outdoor antenna possible. For example, if you’re 75 miles away from a broadcast tower, you’ll purchase an antenna that can capture signals from that range or further.
There are two types of antennas that you can use to pull in free channels. For a dense urban area, an indoor option will probably suffice and provide a clear signal. But if you live a substantial distance away from a TV tower, an outdoor antenna offers a number of advantages and can pull in a signal from up to 150 miles away.
1. pingbingding Amplified Digital Outdoor Antenna
pingbingding Amplified Digital Outdoor Antenna pingbingding Amplified Digital Outdoor Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 46.98
The pingbingding Amplified Digital Outdoor Antenna is a perfect choice for anyone looking to watch over-the-air channels on more than one television. The antenna supports two TVs at one time without the need for a splitter or special adapter. Another great feature of the 150-mile range antenna is that assembly doesn’t require any tools. Along with a mounting pole, pingbingding provides a 40-foot coaxial cable.
Thanks to the 360-degree motor rotor and wireless controller, it’s easy to adjust the antenna from the comfort of your living room instead of having to climb up a ladder. The antenna is also resistant to lighting and other severe weather.
2. ClearStream 4 Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna
ClearStream 4 Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna ClearStream 4 Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 88.00
The multi-directional elements of the ClearStream 4 Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna help deliver both range and reception in suburban and rural environments. As you could probably guess by the name, the antenna can be placed either outdoors or indoors.
Along with a 20-inch mount, ClearStream includes all-weather mounting hardware.
3. ANTOP UFO Dual-Omni-Directional HDTV Antenna
ANTOP UFO Dual-Omni-Directional Outdoor HDTV Antenna ANTOP UFO Dual-Omni-Directional Outdoor HDTV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 99.99
There’s no need to worry about ever having to adjust the ANTOP UFO Dual-Omni-Directional HDTV Antenna. Thanks to the unique design and flying saucer shape, the antenna provides complete coverage horizontally and vertically. A special amplifier allows users to adjust the balance between short and long range reception. Made to pull in signals up to 65 miles away, a built-in filter blocks both 3G and 4G LTE signals for better reception.
Installation requires no tools and ANTOP includes a 33-foot coaxial cable, antenna rod, power adapter, outdoor bracket, and screw and anchor kit.
4. Winegard Elite Outdoor VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna
Winegard Elite Outdoor VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna Winegard Elite Outdoor VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 87.99
Winegard’s Elite Outdoor VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna features a built-in LTE filter and ultra-low noise amplifier with special technology to provide the best reception possible. The antenna pulls in signals up to 70 miles away and withstands winds of more than 100MPH. It is also resistant to salt and fog.
The mounting system provides a number of angling options to allow the perfect position outside. A Winegard’s free smartphone app uses augmented reality to help you find nearby towers along with checking for obstructions.
5. GE Pro Outdoor Yagi TV Antenna
GE Pro Outdoor Yagi TV Antenna GE Pro Outdoor Yagi TV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 49.00
Along with outdoor use, the GE Pro Outdoor Yagi TV Antenna is also perfect for placing in the attic, if necessary. The Yagi design can bring in signals from a broadcast tower up to 70 miles away. GE includes a weather-resistant mounting bracket, mast clamp, and J-mount to provide a wide variety of options for whatever your situation. It can also fit a standard antenna mast.
6. 1byone Amplified Outdoor Digital HDTV Antenna
1byone Amplified Outdoor Digital HDTV Antenna 1byone Amplified Outdoor Digital HDTV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 41.99
The 1byone Amplified Outdoor Digital HDTV Antenna is an inexpensive option with a range of up to 100 miles. It includes everything you need for installation, including an antenna and all mounting accessories. A built-in high-gain and low-noise amplifier will help bring in a clear signal no matter your distance from a broadcast tower. The antenna is built to withstand severe weather conditions, which is critical for outdoor equipment.
7. AntennaWorld Outdoor HDTV Antenna
AntennaWorld Outdoor HDTV Antenna AntennaWorld Outdoor HDTV Antenna Buy Now On Amazon $ 59.99
The AntennaWorld Outdoor HDTV Antenna is able to capture signals up to 180 miles away from a tower. It features a built-in amplifier. That will help you find the best possible reception when you’re more than 50 miles away from a tower. You can also take advantage of an omnidirectional function.
AntennaWorld includes all the mounting hardware and a 33-foot coaxial cable.
Making Use of the Best Outdoor TV Antenna
Depending on your location one of these options may just be the best outdoor HDTV antennas for you. With any of the antennas listed here, you should definitely be able to pull in many crystal clear channels, all for free. That sure beats paying for cable.
And to help make the most of the streaming video landscape and more, take a look at our guide on how to cut the cord and ditch cable for good.
Read the full article: The 7 Best Outdoor TV Antennas in 2019