The Best Outdoor TV Antennas for 2021
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Best Outdoor TV Antenna
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For this post, I have put together a collection of the best outdoor TV antennas currently available.
UPDATED: August 16, 2021.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the RCA ANT751E because it features a compact design, receives broadcasts in HD, and includes a mount for easy setup.
Why should I use an antenna?
While some may consider it to be yesterday’s technology, digital TV antennas have seen an increase in popularity as the “cut the cord” movement has emerged. This has also been aided by the fact that many areas of the United States are within range of free over-the-air HD television.
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What can I watch?
These devices allow you to receive free local news, weather, sports, and entertainment from major networks such as NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX, PBS, and more.
Signal Reception
The signal reception can vary by your location, terrain, antenna height, and distance to the nearest transmission tower. To help with this the FCC has an online DTV Reception Map that allows you to input your address to see what channels are available in your location.
DTV Reception Map
UHF vs. VHF
There are two bands of TV signals: ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) and very high frequency (VHF). These simply refer to the wavelength of each signal. For our purposes, the wavelength size that can be received corresponds to the prong size on the antenna. Using the reception map mentioned above you can see which channels use what frequency in your area.
Most modern antennas are capable of receiving both UHF and VHF, however, check the manufacture's specifications.
Antenna Location
The DTV map calculations above are based on the signal strength with an outdoor antenna 30 feet above the ground. Note that most models can also be mounted in the attic but it may reduce the reception and ultimately affect the number of channels that can be received.
Installation
Installing an outdoor TV antenna is a fairly straightforward process. Most models will require some assembly but it should not require more than standard tools.
Typically they will mount to the roof, wall, or in the attic. Use caution with a direct roof mount and ensure it has been correctly prepared as this can penetrate the waterproofing roof system and potentially cause a leak. Also with a wall mount, make sure to take proper measures to avoid water infiltration as the bolts can compromise the weatherproofing. As mentioned above, an attic installation can reduce the reception.
If you have a choice, select a location that allows the antenna to point in the direction of the transmission tower without any obstructions.
So here is my list of The Best Outdoor TV Antennas for 2021.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: RCA ANT751E Outdoor TV Antenna
The RCA ANT751E antenna features a compact form and is designed to maximize signal reception.
Receives broadcasts in 1080 HDTV and also upcoming 4K and 8K quality.
Tuned to receive both UHF and VHF frequencies.
Offers an easy setup of simply attaching it to the mount with the included mast clamp and connecting a coaxial cable (not included) to the TV.
Works with the free RCA Signal Finder app to find HD channels and help align the antenna.
Runner-up: PBD Outdoor TV Antenna
The PBD Outdoor TV Antenna receives digital TV UHF/VHF signals with HD picture quality.
Equipped with a high gain amplifier and control box with two TV outputs.
Features a bi-directional built-in motor that can turn the antenna 360 degrees
Includes a wireless infrared remote control.
Features an easy “snap-on” system for quick installation.
Ideal mounting height is 30 above ground level, if possible.
Best Bowtie Design: Antennas Direct DB8-E Outdoor TV Antenna
The Antennas Direct DB8-E features a bowtie configuration with a range of up to 70 miles.
Includes a bracket design that allows the two panels to point to broadcast towers in different directions.
Designed for areas that may have a weak incoming signal due to location or obstructions.
Features a reflector-style array that focuses the signal to increase range.
Provides protection from multipath interference.
Must-have Accessory
Don’t forget the coaxial cable.
Best Range: Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 Outdoor TV Antenna
The Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 features eight bays that receive signals from a 180-degree span.
Features a reception range of up to 80 miles.
Receives UHF, VHF, FM, and HD signals.
Equipped with a multi-directional reception pattern for HD and digital signals.
Features a two-foot turning radius.
Includes an integrated boom mount for installation.
Best Budget Option: GE Pro 29884 Outdoor TV Antenna
The GE Pro 29884 features a reception range of up to 70 miles from the broadcast signal.
Features both VHF and UHF signals.
Receives broadcasts in uncompressed 1080p quality.
Features signal enhancing receptors.
Designed to be ready for future 4K UltraHD signals.
Includes a mounting bracket and mast for easy installation.
Best Value: Antennas Direct C4-CJM Outdoor TV Antenna
The Antennas Direct C4-CJM features a unique loop design to receive a range of frequencies.
Features a wide beam angle to reduce the need for rotation of the antenna.
Equipped with a reflector focuses the signal for an increased range.
Includes multipath interference prevention.
Features a 70-mile signal range.
Includes a mount for quick and easy installation.
Best Premium Option: Winegard Platinum HD7694P Outdoor TV Antenna
The Winegard HD7694P offers the ability to receive 4K Ultra-HD signals.
Equipped with high gain on both VHF and UHF frequencies.
Includes a 75 ohm coaxial connection.
Features a 45-mile reception range.
If additional range is required the XT LNA-200 signal booster can also be purchased.
Easy Setup: McDuory UHD-3968 Outdoor TV Antenna
The McDuory UHD-3968 offers a quick setup with minimal assembly.
Features full HDTV support for ideal picture and sound quality.
Receives both UHF and VHF signals.
Offers up to a 70-mile (to tower) signal reception range.
Equipped with mounting bracket and installation hardware.
Includes lightning protection.
Comes with a 40 foot RG6 cable.
Best for Windy Areas: Channel Master CM-2020 Outdoor TV Antenna
The Channel Master CM-2020 features a 100-mile reception range.
Features a single direction design that receives digital and HD signals.
Optimized configuration for UHF, VHF, and FM signals.
Equipped with a turning radius of six feet.
Features a wind-resistant construction for up to 100mph.
Includes a U-Bolt and nest mount (mast is not included).
Best Compact Design: 1 BY ONE 360° Outdoor TV Antenna
The 1 BY ONE 360° antenna features an omni-directional design that can receive signals from any direction.
Equipped with VHF signal reception for access to major network broadcasts.
Includes a signal filter to reduce unwanted interference.
Features an enclosed housing that can make it potentially less prone to wind-related interference.
Offers a weather-resistant and compact design.
Equipped with an amplifier to increase the signal at the antenna.
Note: antenna is designed to support just one TV.
I hope this list of the best outdoor TV antennas was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
