The Best TV Antennas

XFTREE's Digital TV Antenna packs a wide range in a small package. This ultra-thin receiver boasts the ability to get all the major channels in a 130-mile range with zero static or distortion thanks to its optimized Smart Boost technology. While it does have an impressive range, please be aware that geographical factors, like if you live near mountains or valleys, can affect this range. Your distance to the nearest tower will also play into the number and quality of channels you receive. That being said, this antenna delivers!

Besides the range, what we liked most was its easy to set up installation. All you have to do is connect the coax cable and antenna to your TV, position the antenna on a wall or window (preferably), scan for channels then boom! You'll be watching the newest episode of Criminal Minds in no time! The handiest part about this system is its super long 17 foot coax cable which allows flexible installation for the best signal. With this handy digital antenna from XFTREE, you'll be enjoying free channels in 1080p and in some instances ultra HD 4K in no time.

Key Features

• Impressive 130-mile range
• Extra long 17 foot coax cable
• Installs in less than three minutes

As its name implies, Antennas Direct's ClearStream Eclipse TV Antenna produces a very clear picture. This antenna sets itself apart from the competition with its patented loop design. This means the receiver has a wider beam angle with greater frequency so there's no need to constantly rotate the unit. This antenna is also perfect for dorm rooms, apartments, and even RVs thanks to its unique Sure Grip design, allowing it to grip to any wall, window or flat surface. We also liked the double-side install options, so you can choose the white or black side to better match your decor. You can even paint it to easily incorporate it into any room!

Though we found the 12 foot long coax cable a little on the short side, it is detachable which means you can trade it for a longer one if needed. Also, the range is a bit shorter than our top pick at only 35 miles, but unless you live in a very rural location, that should be more than enough to get a great signal for a number of free channels.

Key Features

• Patented loop design for greater frequency
• 4K ready
• Patented Sure Grip design for easy installation

With its super low profile design you'll probably forget you ever installed Mohu's Leaf Metro Antenna to your TV! Sometimes smaller is better and that is exactly the case with this innovative paper thin antenna. Mohu's Leaf Metro Antenna packs a decent 25 mile signal radius in a tiny package, which should be more than suitable for those in urban or suburban locations, or in close proximity to a tower.

Out of all the antennas on this list, we would recommend this one the most for those who live in dorms or apartments due to its ultra compact design, though it could easily work in any home. While this antenna can be attached to a wall, Mohu does recommend that you place the Leaf Metro near a window for the most channels. If the antenna's 10 foot coax cable is too short for you, it is detachable and replaceable for a longer one if needed. Overall, we liked the Leaf Metro for its low-key design and impressive results. Forget the rabbit ears and upgrade with the modern and out of sight Leaf Metro.

Key Features

• Paper thin design
• 4K ready
• Perfect for dorms, apartments, or RVs

Gesobyte's Amplified HD Digital Antenna is a smart pick for a number of reasons. The built-in Smart IC Chip helps to expand the range tenfold, allowing for up to a 120-foot range. As we mentioned before, your individual location will play into the true range, but this an antenna that will work for almost everyone. The Crystal Clear Filter technology helps to filter out cellular and FM signals, which results in clearer picture quality and a wider range of signals that can be picked up.

The 18-foot coaxial cable might be too long for some, but it allows maximum flexibility when it comes time to finding the best spot in your home for optimal signal. We also liked the option of for either USB power via your TV, or in older models the option to use a Smart IC USB Power adapter with built-in overvoltage protection that can be plugged into any outlet. The coaxial cable itself was thick, and seemed well-built to stand the test of time.

No matter where you live, what type of TV you own, or the best spot of installation in your home, this is the perfect antenna for you.

Key Features

• 4K ready
• Amazon Fire Stick Compatible
• 120 mile signal range

Unlike streaming services, setting up a digital antenna requires a little more effort than just pressing a button. Just so you can hit the ground running with your new digital antenna, we've prepared a guide on some FAQs and installation tips so you can get right to watching.

How do I install my digital antenna?

Connect your antenna's coax cable to your TV, connect the power source (if applicable), position the antenna on a wall or table, preferably a window, in the highest location possible for optimum signal. In your TV's settings, hit scan for channels. This may take a minute or so but after scanning your TV will begin to broadcast any recovered channels. Every time you reposition your antenna, you will need to rescan for channels, so we recommend holding off on securing with tape or other adhesives until you find the sweet spot to receive the most channels with the best clarity.

How does location affect my signal?

Your antenna signal strength will be dependent on quite a few different things such as location, your distance from the nearest signal tower or TV transmitter, as well as weather and tree cover. This all comes down to how much the signal is being obstructed. For example, someone living near a mountain range may have a harder time receiving signal due to the natural features interfering with TV signals. For best reception and results, it is best to install your antenna near windows or away from natural formations outside or even other electronics like microwaves that may disrupt signal. To see what type of coverage you can get, there are a number of resources online, such as dtv.gov/maps and tvfool.com.