Many people nowadays are looking for a decent over-the-air TV antenna to get a high-quality reception, thus enlarging the number of channels and improving the picture, as much as possible. Besides, such antennas are great substitutions to cable and satellite TV options, which can hit someone’s pocket more than it has been initially expected. Outdoor OTA antennas allow receiving the stable signal even being located over a long-distance from the nearest TV broadcasting tower. This article is designated for those who don’t want to purchase an entire bunch of antennas before finding the right option, but make an adequate decision on the spot.

What is the best outdoor antenna? An advanced model should become an optimal solution for those who live far away from a TV tower with multiple obstacles on a signal path. Such antennas can manage these challenges thanks to the design peculiarities. In this regard, they come in a bigger design in comparison with indoor options, featuring more driven and parasitic elements. They help to receive more signals in different frequency bands, and enhance them, to get more channels in a clear-crystal Full HD 1080p, or even 4K quality.

Best Outdoor TV Antenna Comparison

1. Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna - DB8e - DB8-E
This antenna is capable of receiving a strong signal within 70 miles and more, at 470 MHz and 698 MHz ranges depending on direction and angle of its installation. It features superior in its class 17.4 dBi signal gain to ensure a reliable reception with US channels from 14 to 69 in Full HD 1080p. This model can be installed indoor, in an attic, and outdoors with an all-weather mounting accessories included.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

2. Antennas Direct Clearstream 4 TV Antenna – C4-CJM
It is another high-performance OTA antenna from Antennas Direct in a 4 quad-loop design, which is one of the most compact among other outdoor models. It can transmit TV signal in the + 70-mile range. It is compatible with UHF signals to watch free TV channels in FullHD 1080p and 4K. This antenna is suitable for indoor, attic and outdoor installation.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

3. Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R Satellite TV Antenna
Designed for satellite SD/HD programming this dual arc (Western and Eastern) antenna can be used throughout the US and it is capable of withstanding any weather conditions. This model is powered by the dish receiver (included) through a coaxial cable. The Pathway X2 ensures the superior signal reception to get the most programming available. Besides, it can provide for 2 TV seamless viewing in case of connection to 2 receivers.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

4. Winegard HD8200U Platinum
This Yagi–type Winegard antenna is a high-rated model due to its outstanding signal performance. Such a long-range antenna is mostly preferable for installations at a long-distance from a TV broadcasting station to provide higher gain within 10-20 dBi and a unidirectional orientation. It can receive low/high VHF and UHF signals. It is designed with a capacity to receive 4K Ultra HD signals and be ready for ATSC 3.0 transition.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

5. GE Pro Outdoor TV Antenna, 29884
This is an affordable TV antenna which can reach UHF, VHF, HD signals from a broadcasting tower located within 70 miles. It is capable of receiving full 1080p signal, besides it is ready for 4K Ultra HD signals. This model is designed for attic/outdoor installation, and it comes with a mounting hardware in the package.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

6. AmazonBasics Amplified Indoor/Outdoor TV Antenna - 60 Mile Range
This antenna comes in multi-directional design avoiding any hand adjustments. It can pick up signals from TV towers within a 60-mile radius to deliver a clear picture of multiple programs from ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Univision, etc., in Full HD 1080p. It can be easily installed at any location of your house, both indoors and outdoors and connected to your TV with the 10ft. coaxial cable included.

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE  

Different designs of outdoor TV antennas

Among a vast variety of OTA antenna designs, there are particular types which are considered to be the most reliable and highly demanded for TV signal transmission, accordingly. The majority of these antennas belong to the class of array antennas. They consist of a set of numerous connected antennas (elements) which unite during work to transmit or receive signals from a broadcasting tower.

  • Yagi–Uda antenna consists of multiple symmetrical vibrators, which include driven and parasitic elements. Such antennas are mostly preferable for installations at a long-distance from a TV broadcasting station to provide higher gain within 10-20 dBi and a unidirectional orientation. This type is deemed as one of the most common directional antennas compatible with HF, VHF, and UHF signals. For instance, the Winegard HD8200U Platinum is a high-rated model due to its outstanding signal performance.

  • Log-periodic dipole array resembles the above-mentioned antenna in its design. However, this comprises multiple dipole elements arranged along a beam with gradually decreased lengths and distance between them. Log-periodic dipole models belong to the passive antenna type, thus making it suitable for zones with stable signal strength and direct signal path with minimum obstacles.

  • Reflective array is a multi directional antenna which comprises eight dipole driven elements mounted on the front of a flat reflecting screen. Its X-shaped elements cover a wide signal bandwidth. The ANTENNAS DIRECT 8-ELEMENT BOWTIE TV ANTENNA is a bright example of reflective array antennas providing the highest signal gain in its class.

Overall, you should always define the reasonability of a particular antenna design to be chosen which would depend on various factors in your particular case.

Types of outdoor TV antennas

All antenna spots in urban and rural areas are located at a different distance from TV broadcasting towers. Besides, the place of installation influences signal strength in terms of terrain features and other natural/artificial obstacles. Outdoor TV antennas are more suitable for these applications, as they have more power in comparison with indoor counterparts. Commonly, they are installed at some high points (attic, roof, mast), but still they must be easily accessible for servicing and maintenance. Such points should provide the most possible unobstructed signal path between antenna and TV tower.

Outdoor models come in different designs, but generally all of them are divided into 2 types in terms of operating principle: active and passive.

An active TV antenna has an integrated signal amplifier which allows boosting signals and compensating for cable losses. Such devices are preferable if a broadcasting tower is located within a long-distance range, or in case of considerable obstructions such as buildings, woodlands, lowlands or power lines which attenuate the signal. Active antennas are capable of transmitting the signal for several TVs. For this purpose, only a splitter will be required. And here, I would like to make reference to WINEGARD MS-3005 METROSTAR ANTENNA which is an amplified omni-directional model with the capacity to boost TV signal, reduce its losses, and exclude multi-path or wireless interferences.

A passive antenna is offered at more affordable prices. However, such a model would be suitable only if the TV signal is strong enough which can be provided by a comparative proximity of a TV tower in the range of 19 miles or less; or if there is an unobstructed straight path between receiving point and broadcasting equipment. Amplifiers would not be required here.

Satellite antenna. There is another type of outdoor antennas which stands out from the traditional terrestrial OTA models by its method of signal reception. In particular, I mean satellite antenna signals which are sent from orbital slots above the earth. A satellite antenna would become the unmatched equipment for TV signal reception which is deemed as an advanced substitution to terrestrial models. This fact is grounded by its capability to capture the signal from a satellite instead of an earth-based TV station. Any satellite antenna comes in a dish-type anti-corrosion design. The collected waves are reflected with the further redirection to a converter. The latter sets up the connection with a particular satellite to receive all TV channels transmitted. Also such antennas are commonly equipped with a receiver which converts satellite signals to a standard TV signal. Like in case with the WINEGARD PATHWAY X2 PA6002R SATELLITE TV ANTENNA which comes with HD dish receiver which makes this model portable and supports dish pay-as-you-go programming.

Obviously, satellite antennas offer an array of advantages thus allowing watching multiple channels in an exceptional HD quality. However, they have several downsides which refer to higher costs and necessity in professional servicing. In particular, you would hardly install such an antenna by yourself. An entire set-up process includes check of signal correctness, with further dish adjustment in an appropriate direction at a right angle, and a receiver frequency setting.

What should be the maximum signal range without compromising its strength?

A pricy outdoor TV antenna doesn’t stand for its quality and capacity to cover wide frequency bands or receive signals from remote broadcasting towers. Unfortunately, plenty of unscrupulous antenna manufactures specify gain parameters of their products which do not line up with reality, thus misleading their customers. That is, you may ignore any claim exceeding 80-mile range even for outdoor models. Besides, this parameter would depend on the amount of obstacles and interference level in the area. In any case, only active-type antennas have enough power to cover such long distance ranges, as its integrated amplifier can generate at least 40% signal gain.

Top-10 Long-Range Outdoor TV Antennas

ANTENNAS DIRECT 8-ELEMENT BOWTIE TV ANTENNA, 70 MILES RANGE, MULTI-DIRECTIONAL| Best outdoor HDTV & 4K TV antenna

You can be sure of the reliability of this product as it is offered by Antennas Direct Inc., one of the largest providers of broadcasting equipment throughout the U.S.

This array reflective multi-directional antenna comes with patented elements and adjustable brackets which allow turning of two panels in any direction. Its reflector enhances the antenna's power to cover more than 70-mile range with an additional protection against external interference. This model is capable of providing one of the highest 17.4 dBi signal gain in its class. It is compatible with UHF band at 470 MHz to 698 MHz to transmit 14-69 US channels. Thanks to this advanced equipment you will be able to watch your favourite TV programs in full HD with no need in a high-cost monthly subscription to cable providers. More than that, this model is ready for a superior 4K TV.

Features

  • Range (mile): 70+
  • Frequency: UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 10
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 36 x 6 x 48
Pros: Cons:
  • Long-distance signal range
  • High signal gain
  • Resistant to multipath interference
  • Compact design
  • Multi-directional
  • Durable
  • Suitable for UHF signals only
  • Mast and coaxial cable have to purchased additionally

This high-performance antenna would become a reliable choice for those who want to get a crystal-clear TV picture even being far away from the nearest broadcasting tower.

ANTENNAS DIRECT 8-ELEMENT BOWTIE: Check the current price

ANTENNAS DIRECT CLEARSTREAM 4 TV ANTENNA, C4-CJM | Best multi-directional loop antenna

This multi-directional loop antenna comes in an elegant and compact design. It is designated for 70-mile ranges and even more, with consideration to terrestrial features or obstacles presence which can negatively affect the signal strength. This model can ensure up to 12.3 dBi gain of signals within UHF and VHF bands. Thus, you can watch multiple channels for free including those broadcasted by ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CW, PBS, Univision, MeTV, and other networks in FullHD 1080p.

This antenna is designed for outdoor, attic and indoor installation. Thanks to its quick-connect technology, assembly of this antenna doesn’t require specific skills and saves you time.

Features

  • Range (mile): 70
  • Frequency: VHF, UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 8
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9 x 28 x 20
Pros: Cons:
  • High signal range
  • UHF and VHF reception
  • Suitable for 4K TV
  • Designed for indoor and outdoor applications
  • Quick assembly
  • Mounting hardware is included
  • Lower signal gain

Having chosen this multi-band antenna you will be able to experience a crystal-clear, high-definition picture on your TV, independently from the place of its installation.

ANTENNAS DIRECT CLEARSTREAM 4: Check the current price

WINEGARD HD8200U PLATINUM VHF/UHF HDTV ANTENNA | Best Yaga-type long-range antenna

Since 1954 the Winegard has become a very famous U.S. brand in the field of terrestrial and satellite antenna products and accessories to them. The WINEGARD HD8200U is a uni-directional long range TV antenna rated for 65+ miles. It can receive low/high VHF and UHF signals to watch your favourite TV channels in Full HD 1080p. Besides, this antenna is designed with a capacity to receive 4K Ultra HD signals and be ready for ATSC 3.0 transition.

This model has all-weather proof design for reliable work outdoors. Also, it features a download module with 75 Ohm coaxial connection contributing to uninterrupted digital TV reception. Its mounting hardware comes in steel zinc plated design ensuring the maximum corrosion resistance.

Features

  • Range (mile): 65
  • Frequency: VHF, UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 17
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 168.2 x 110 x 33
Pros: Cons:
  • High signal range
  • Compatible with UHF and VHF bands
  • Compatible with any streaming device
  • Free Winegard apps, if available
  • Durable design
  • Bulky design
  • Expensive

This is one of the best options if you are aspiring for cutting the cord without compromising the number of TV channels and reception quality at your place.

WINEGARD HD8200U PLATINUM: Check the current price

ANTENNAS DIRECT 70 MILE RANGE YAGI DIRECTIONAL UHF DTV ANTENNA, UE-MX91

The Antennas Direct lineup is so wide that I can’t help sharing some other outstanding products with you. And the UE-MX91 really hits the spot! This uni-directional UHF antenna has enough power to receive TV signals from 70+ miles away from a broadcasting tower. Also, it has a higher gain of 17.4 dBi at 698 MHz with a smaller beam angle in comparison with traditional Yagi-type antennas. You can enjoy multiple channels from ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CW, PBS, Univision, MeTV and other networks in Full HD 1080 and free of charge.

This antenna comes in a snap-lock design which implies an easy and quick assembly with further horizontal or vertical installation, depending on your needs.

Features

  • Range (mile): 70+
  • Frequency: UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 6.3
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 93 x 20 x 22
Pros: Cons:
  • One of the highest gains in its class
  • Long-distance signal range
  • Multipath interference protection
  • Lightweight
  • All-weather mounting hardware is included
  • UHF band only
  • Being a unidirectional model its orientation have to be constantly monitored and adjusted, if necessary
  • Bulky design

The 91XG is one of the highest-gain Yagi-type antennas available on the current market which assembly and installation will be just a breeze even for a novice user.

ANTENNAS DIRECT 70 MILE RANGE YAGI: Check the current price

WINEGARD PATHWAY X2 PA6002R SATELLITE TV ANTENNA | Best HDTV satellite antenna

Also, Winegard is on the leading edge of manufacturing technology for HDTV satellite antennas. The Pathway X2 PA6002R is an awesome product featuring a dual arc technology which allows receiving Western and Eastern arc orbitals and getting signals from all DISH satellites in the United States. Thus, you will have an opportunity to watch multiple DISH channels in SD/HD independently from your location in the U.S., under any weather conditions. This antenna is powered through a coaxial cable, with no need for an additional power cord. This model is optimized for 2 TV seamless viewing, what you need is to connect the second receiver to get the signal from satellite 72.7.

The antenna set includes DISH HD receiver, tuner, and remote control with a remote finder, and integrated applications from Netflix.

Features

  • Signal type: SD/HD dish programming
  • Weight (lbs): 27.6
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 24.2 x 22.5 x 20.7
Pros: Cons:
  • Dual arc technology
  • Optimized for 2 seamless viewing
  • Perfect for rural and remote areas
  • 100% automatic
  • Portable design
  • Durable
  • Easy to install
  • Requires subscription
  • Expensive

This is a great portable TV antenna for the ideal signal reception at any location, and one of the best RV’s options.

WINEGARD PATHWAY X2 PA6002R: Check the current price

The Winegard PL-7000R Dish Playmaker is another satellite antenna from this manufacturer in a rugged but compact design with a military grade aluminum alloyed reflector. The latter enhances signal strength which allows watching your favourite TV shows in a high-quality SD/HD. Unlike the above-mentioned model, the PL-7000R will be compatible only with the following satellites: DISH 61.5° (SD/HD) 110° (SD/HD) 119° (SD/HD) 129° (SD/HD). Besides, this model is designed for a single-TV viewing with no opportunity to connect another receiver for the 2X streaming.

However, this antenna is capable of immediately acquiring compatible DISH satellite signals in auto-mode with an easy set-up, thus enabling you to watch the crystal clear dish TV wherever you go.

Winegard Company PL-7000R Dish Playmaker: Check the current price

WINEGARD MS-3005 METROSTAR DIGITAL 360 VHF/UHF AMPLIFIED OMNIDIRECTIONAL OUTDOOR HDTV ANTENNA | Best wireless 360-degree TV antenna

This 360 degree outdoor HDTV antenna is capable of picking up signals from all directions, without any manual/auto adjustment needed. This model features an integrated preamplifier which serves for signal boost, thus reducing cable losses and external interferences. The MS-3005 is compatible with VHF and UHF bands. And it can transmit a stable signal even if a broadcasting tower is 35 miles away. With this model you will be able to enjoy multiple TV shows in Full HD 1080p, and 4K Ultra HD, if available.

Installation of this antenna is pretty easy involving some simple hand tools and a mast (not included). The mounting hardware, a power supply and injector are delivered in the package.

Features

  • Range (mile): 35
  • Frequency: VHF, UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 2.8
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 14.8 x 14.8 x 6
Pros: Cons:
  • Compatible with VHF and UHF bands
  • Multidirectional
  • Integrated pre-amplifier
  • Lightweight
  • Easy installation
  • Low-profile design
  • Mounting hardware is included
  • Lower signal range

This is an awesome cord-cutting antenna due to its increased signal boost capacity and an independent reception in a slim and easy-to-install design.

WINEGARD MS-3005 METROSTAR: Check the current price

GE PRO OUTDOOR TV LONG RANGE ANTENNA – 29884 | Best budget for 4K Ultra HDTV

This model is declared as a long-range TV antenna due to its ability to receive a signal from a 70-mile away broadcast source. It can recognize both VHF and UHF signals and receive broadcast programming in an uncompressed HD 1080p quality. Besides, this antenna is designed with a capacity to comply with future 4K Ultra HDTV. These features are ensured by the built-in enhancing receptors.

This model is suitable for indoor attic and outdoor installation with a simple set-up maintaining reliable signal strength in both cases.

Features

  • Range (mile): 70
  • Frequency: VHF, UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 2.8
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 3.5 x 16.6 x 5.8
Pros: Cons:
  • High signal range
  • UHF/VHF compatible
  • Enhanced gain
  • Indoor/outdoor installation
  • Mounting kit is included
  • Affordable price
  • Signal might be weak in case of indoor arrangement
  • Has to be directed to a broadcast station

It’s a budget-friendly but great-performance TV antenna which can beat plenty of expectations, indeed!

GE PRO OUTDOOR: Check the current price

AMAZONBASICS AMPLIFIED INDOOR/OUTDOOR TV ANTENNA - 60 MILE RANGE

Amazon Basics introduces its multi-directional antenna which is suitable for HDTV reception within 60-mile range from a broadcasting tower. You will always get a high-strength signal without additional adjustments or pointing of the antenna to the broadcast signal. An integrated amplifier is used to boost an incoming signal and compensate for any cable losses.

This model delivers a clear-crystal picture in Full HD 1080p quality from ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Univision and other networks. Connection of this antenna to a TV would be quick and easy with the help of 10-foot coaxial cable included. Picks up signal from broadcast towers within a 60-mile radius.

Features

  • Range (mile): 60
  • Frequency: N/m
  • Weight (lbs): 4.9
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 19.4 x 11.8 x 2.6
Pros: Cons:
  • Multidirectional
  • Amplified signal
  • Indoor/outdoor installation
  • Compact
  • Mounting kit is included
  • Reasonable price
  • Lower signal range
  • Signal reception can be significantly affected by minor obstructions

Thanks to the boost capacity, this powerful antenna provides better signal reception than similar models within its price range.

AMAZONBASICS: Check the current price

FIVESTAR OUTDOOR HDTV ANTENNA UP TO 200 MILES | Long range TV antenna 200 miles

This OTA outdoor antenna comes in a multidirectional 360 degree design to receive VHF/UHF and FM band signals. According to the manufacturer of this model, it is possible to get a stable signal within a reception radius of up to 200 miles. This figure raises particular concerns. And we have already reviewed this issue above in this article. And we know already that even the most advanced outdoor models from trusted brands can offer a reliable proved TV signal within 80-mile range (with no signal obstructions on the way). Thus, it’s up to you to decide here whether you rely on the manufacturer's words or not.

The FiveStar antenna features an auto gain control within 15-35 dB range for the utmost signal reception in each particular case. The received picture is broadcasted in 1080p, 1080l, and 720p Full HD. Besides, it is capable of supporting 4K HDTV.

A built-in LTE filter is designed to remove 4G interference. This antenna comes with a mounting kit including a durable copper cable for enhanced signal transmission.

Features

  • Range (mile):200
  • Frequency: VHF/UHF
  • Weight (lbs): 4.7
  • Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 17.8 x 7.4 x 6.8
Pros: Cons:
  • Auto gain control
  • Suitable for VHF/UHF and FM bands
  • Integrated amplifier
  • Motorized 360° rotation
  • Installation kit is included
  • The stated signal range is under big concern
  • Auto rotation may be out of service at freezing temperatures

This antenna has a number of advanced features which improve its signal performance. However, the declared signal range would hardly correspond to reality.

FIVESTAR OUTDOOR HD: Check the current price

10 Best-Selling Budget-Friendly Outdoor TV Antennas Under $50 | Comparison Table

Customers' Choice

Best Value

Most Popular

Best Trusted

Most Discussed & Reviewed

Best Trusted

Best Cheap

Other Popular outdoor tv antennas

What is the best budget outdoor TV antenna? Choose a model that allows for blocking electronic interference from other devices and home appliances so that you could watch your channels without issues. Also, the number of channels you can access partially depend on the device, not just on how high it is mounted and how far the broadcasting tower is located. With an outdoor antenna, you can watch more channels than using an indoor one. Another dilemma is whether to buy a rooftop model or the one that is designed to be installed in the attic. Except in the case of the metal roof surface, the former is more is the best choice.

One of such models is FiveStar Outdoor HD TV Antenna which is meant to be mounted on the rooftop. It comes with an LTE filter removing interference from 4G signals, including the ones from phones. This item has a wide range — up to 200 miles — and rotates 360 degrees. You can use the remote control to rotate it while comfortably watching TV. The device is not only easy to use but is also easy to mount as it will take you about 5 minutes to connect the antenna. Two additional UHF elements and larger VHF ones improve the channel reception and the quality of the image.

FiveStar: Check the current price

Products with a 5-star rating

 

Product5 Stars Votes
1byone Outdoor TV Antenna 360° Omni-Directional Reception Long 100+ Miles Range Enhance VHFUHF 4K Ready HDTV Antenna with Added Stability for Outdoor/Attic/RV Use - 39ft RG6 Coax Cable197(92.9%)
PBD WA-2608 Digital Amplified Outdoor HD TV Antenna with Mounting Pole 40 ft RG6 Coax Cable 150 Miles Range Wireless Remote Rotation Support 2TVs5(2.4%)
Vansky Outdoor 150 Mile Motorized 360 Degree Rotation OTA Amplified HD TV Antenna for 2 TVs UHF/VHF/1080P Channels Wireless Remote Control - 32.8' Coax Cable5(2.4%)
GE Pro Outdoor TV Antenna, Long Range Antenna, 4K 1080P VHF UHF Digital HDTV Antenna, J Mount Included, Weather Resistant, Indoor Attic Mountable, 298843(1.4%)
[Newest 2020] Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna - up to 200 Mile Long Range,Directional 360 Degree Rotation,HD 4K 1080P FM Radio, Supports 5 TVs Plus Installation Kit and Mounting Pole2(0.9%)
[Newest 2020] Five Star TV Antenna Indoor/Outdoor Yagi Satellite HD Antenna with up to 200 Mile Range - Attic or Roof Mount TV Antenna, Long Range Digital OTA Antenna for 4K 1080P with Mounting Pole0(0%)
Outdoor TV Antenna - 1byone 720°Omni-Directional Reception TV Antenna Built-in Amplifier Enhance UHF for Home/RV/Attic/Marine Up to 150 Miles with 32ft Coax Cable Free HDTV Channels0(0%)

Tips and advices on YouTube

✅ TOP 5: Best Outdoor TV Antenna 2020


The Top 3 Outdoor TV Antennas from an Installer


TOP 5: Best Outdoor TV Antenna 2020 on Amazon | Long Range Antenna

Add comment