Interested in finding the best HD antenna? We’ve handpicked these just for you.
Antennas are a crucial part of electronic equipment, from televisions to cellphones to radios. but choosing the best HD antenna can be hard when there is such an overwhelming variety.
If you live in an apartment, you’ll likely have to consider an indoor antenna, unless you’re allowed to mount things outside on a patio for example. So, to help in your search when it’s time to find the best HD antenna for your home, we’ve compiled the top-performing options for all types of needs.
What to look for to find the absolute best HD antenna
The best place to start your search for the best HD antenna is figuring out exactly what you need. This means taking a few specific features into consideration, including:
- Frequency range: Check the frequency range of the antenna to ensure that it can receive the channels you want to watch.
- Type of antenna: Decide on the type of antenna you need based on the location, distance from the broadcast towers and signal strength in your area.
- Gain: The gain of an antenna determines how much signal it can receive. Choose an antenna with a higher gain for areas with weak signals.
- Directionality: Some antennas are directional, meaning they receive signals from one direction only. Only choose a directional antenna if you know the direction of the broadcast towers.
- Size and shape: Antennas come in various shapes and sizes. Choose one that fits your space and is aesthetically pleasing.
- Amplification: Some antennas come with built-in amplifiers to boost weak signals. This can be helpful in areas with poor reception.
- Installation: Consider the ease of installation and any additional equipment you may need, such as coaxial cables or a mounting bracket.
- Price: HD antennas can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred. Determine your budget and choose an antenna that fits your needs and price range.
- Indoor or outdoor: If you live in an apartment with restrictions on what you can mount outside, you’ll need to opt for an indoor HD antenna. Most commonly, you’ll find simple “leaf” antennas, and these can work great especially if you’re not far from the TV station.
Getting your particular set of needs in place before you begin shopping can save you a lot of time and the hassle of accidentally buying the wrong HD antenna.
How to maximize your signal indoors
When you get to the indoor or outdoor feature for your HD antenna, and you realize you have to get an indoor one, don’t worry about signal interference. Even if you can’t mount it outside, these tips will help you maximize your signal.
- Find the best location: Place your antenna near a window facing the broadcast tower for the best signal reception. You can also try placing it in a higher location, such as on a bookshelf or on top of a cabinet.
- Experiment with antenna placement: Try different locations and orientations for your antenna to find the best signal. Sometimes a small adjustment can make a big difference.
- Use a signal amplifier: A signal amplifier can boost the signal strength of your antenna, especially if you are in a low-signal area or your cable run is too long.
- Avoid interference: Keep your antenna away from other electronic devices, such as routers or cordless phones. These devices can interfere with the signal.
- Use a better cable: A high-quality coaxial cable can improve the signal quality between your HD antenna and your TV, especially for long cable runs.
- Consider a directional antenna: A directional antenna can be pointed toward the broadcast tower for better signal reception, but it requires more precise positioning.
When all else fails, you can always talk to your landlord about a rooftop antenna. If you have access to the roof of your apartment building, and permission, a rooftop antenna can provide the best signal reception. Although, even with the best antenna and setup, the quality of your signal may still depend on the location and strength of the broadcast tower, as well as any obstructions in the way.
The best HD antennas for your TV
You’ve got a plan to optimize your signal, and you kind of know what you’re looking for. Now, it’s time to make a list of possibilities. Here are a few top performers to consider first.
Antennas Direct ClearStream 4
Source: Amazon.com
With a 70-mile range, the Direct ClearStream 4 is an excellent choice for people living in suburban or rural areas with heavy foliage that reduces the incoming signal, making it an easy pick for our best HD antenna list. Its patented loop design enables it to respond to a wide range of frequencies and eliminates the need for rotation, while the reflector provides added range and protection against multi-path interference.
A leader in cutting-edge antenna technology, setting up the ClearStream 4 is easy; all you need to do is locate the broadcast towers serving your area at antennapoint.com, place the antenna indoors or out based on your lease agreement, connect one end of a coaxial cable to the antenna and the other end to your TV and scan for the available channels using your TV remote control.
Antennas Direct ClearStream Eclipse Amplified TV Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
Able to receive television signals from 50+ miles away, the ClearStream Eclipse is an ultra-thin antenna that features patented loop in paper-thin design. It’s low-profile Jolt in-line amplifier connects directly to the TV’s USB port to only draw power when the TV is on. The UHF element is multi-directional offering reliable signal reception from both sides.
Easy-to-install, and reliable as an indoor TV antenna, the ClearStream Eclipse is made from durable materials that are actually paintable and reversible. Even if you have to put it up in an obvious location, you can paint it to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings.
Five Star Outdoor Digital Amplified HD Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
Designed to reach up to a 200-mile range, the Five Star Outdoor Antenna provides crisp and clear HDTV resolution. The antenna operates on VHF 40-230MHz and UHF 470-860MHz frequencies, and is capable of supporting five TVs simultaneously. With its upgraded high-gain booster, you’ll experience exceptional HDTV quality.
Advanced VHF and UHF reception is achieved through six reflector elements, which improve image quality by 25 percent when compared to four-element antennas. The larger elements also provide a more stable signal. The V Band further enhances VHF HDTV quality by 50 percent, while the durable reflector design withstands wind damage.
Higher image resolution is ensured by the built-in Auto Gain Control Chip, which has a gain booster ranging from 15-35db. The premium quality copper cable inside the motor offers shielded and stable signal transmission, and the LTE filter eliminates interference from phone signals.Experience a wider operating range with the built-in All Directional 360-degree rotation, which allows you to receive more HDTV channel options.
ANTOP HD Smart Booster Panel Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
Ensuring an outstanding 85-mile long-range reception, the ANTOP HD Smart Booster Panel Antenna features the exclusive Smart Boost System. This sleek, stylish antenna is designed to connect two devices simultaneously and is equipped with a built-in adjustment dial for optimal reception. The built-in 4G LTE filter reduces pixelation, while its multi-directional reception pattern, integrated FM antenna and robust construction make this a top pick for consumers.
The ANTOP HD Smart Booster Panel is robust and strong, providing excellent reception even in rural areas.
1 By One Amplified HD Digital TV Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
Sleek and lightweight in design, with exceptional performance, the 1 By One Amplified HD Antenna has an inconspicuous flat design you can easily install and conceal behind the TV or on walls and windows. Its long-range reception capability, spanning up to 250 miles, ensures that it can cover nearly any apartment. The included signal amplifiers further enhance reception, making it easier to enjoy high-quality TV signals in various locations.
This antenna comes with a 16.5 feet, high-quality coax cable, which offers flexibility in positioning the antenna for optimal reception. The durable construction of the coaxial cable ensures minimal signal loss or distortion even in adverse weather conditions, providing consistent performance.
Installation is a breeze, with the antenna easily facing local towers and scanning for channels. The package includes convenient 3M adhesive stickers, power-grip suction cups and mounting screws for versatile placement options.
ANTIER Indoor HD Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
Boasting a signal range of up to 350+ miles, the ANTIER Indoor HDTV Antenna provides outstanding crystal-clear quality. This antenna filters out cellular and FM signals to deliver a clearer picture, high voice quality and low noise. You can enjoy HD channels from all major networks with minimal interference and maximum reception.
The ANTIER Indoor HDTV Antenna boasts a sleek and compact design, making it both practical and aesthetically pleasing. It easily fits in any home and can be placed near the TV or near a window for better reception.
Setting up this antenna is a breeze, with its simple and straightforward process. Just plug it in, position it and scan for channels. You only have to rescan if you relocate the antenna. Should you run into any issues, ANTIER offers 24/7 customer support, ensuring that assistance is always available.
Mohu Sail Amplified Indoor Outdoor TV Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
With a slim, curved design and impressive performance, the Mohu Sail Amplified Antenna has a 75-mile range and FirstStage amplification, a shoo-in pick for any list of best HD antenna. The antenna’s dimensions make it ideal for suburban and rural installations. The multi-directional UHF and Hi-VHF elements receive TV signals from both sides of the antenna, ensuring excellent reception for OTA DTV broadcasts in full HD 1080p, UHD 4K, 8K and NEXTGEN TV, depending on coverage.
Along with the Mohu Sail antenna, you also get a 30-foot detachable, high-performance coaxial cable, USB power injector with 6-foot USB cable, a USB power adapter, a 20-inch mast with pivoting base, adjustable mounting hardware and instructions. This all helps make installation a breeze, so you’re up and watching television quickly.
Mohu Leaf 30
Source: Amazon.com
The Mohu Leaf 30 has a flat antenna designed to receive TV signals from broadcast towers within a 40-mile range, delivering full 1080 HD channels. Its UHF/Hi-VHF multi-directional elements are reversible and blend seamlessly with your home décor. Install it on your wall or in a window for optimal performance.
The Leaf 30 is ideal for various living situations, including city and suburban homes, dorm rooms, workshops and RVs. Part of its popularity is due to its innovative, discrete mud flap design. The antenna package includes a 10-foot detachable coaxial cable, hooks and loop tabs and push pins for easy installation.
Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie HD Antenna
Source: Amazon.com
The Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna has an unsurpassed gain of 17.4 dBi and can receive TV signals from up to 70 miles away, making it ideal for any area where heavy foliage or other buildings reduce the incoming signal. With two antenna panels, you’re able to receive signals from multiple directions at the same time.
New breakthrough technology makes this particular bowtie antenna smaller than they’ve traditionally been. It delivers two times the power at half the size. Additionally, the reflector focuses the antenna’s power for added range and also provides protection against multi-path interference.
Set up is easy, and once you find the ideal location for your antenna, our favorite network shows will broadcast in full HD 1080 where available.
Channel Master Flatenna
Source: Amazon.com
For an ultra-thin, indoor antenna with a 35-mile range, check out the Channel Master Flatenna. This flexible, paper-thin and reversible black-and-white TV antenna is perfect for those seeking an aesthetically pleasing but efficient indoor option. With the ever-increasing availability of channels over-the-air and superior HD picture quality compared to cable and satellite, the Flatenna is the perfect starter antenna for anyone who wants a solid indoor TV antenna without spending a lot of money.
The Flatenna is a reliable and trustworthy option. It’s affordable, non-amplified and has a professional-grade RG-6 coaxial cable with enhanced shielding to protect against electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. This antenna offers multiple mounting options and comes with non-destructive sticky pads that aid in mounting it to the wall or window. Set it up in your apartment up high and away from metal surfaces and power-consuming appliances to ensure you get the best signal.
Choosing the best HD antenna
With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which HD antenna to go for when you know you need one. By considering your specific needs, along with your location and budget, it is possible to narrow down your options and find the perfect antenna for your home.
These top performers can get you started in your search, whether you’re looking for a long-range antenna or one that is easy to install. In the end, you’ll have the best HD antenna for your home, and stellar picture quality to watch your favorite network shows.
Source: rent.com