The Best TV Surf Antennas Review
TV antennas are becoming more and more popular again, and the market has been flooded with new options offering many different features. It can be very confusing at first, as there are so many to choose from.
But first, why would you want to consider a TV antenna to begin with? Well, let’s have look at a few points:
- No monthly cable or satellite fees, saving you money
- A lot of TV channels are available
- Many channels offer HD and 4K resolutions
- Easy installations (usually)
If you are sold, here are a few of our favorite options currently available:
Hey! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon are affiliate links and I earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance for your support!
1. The RCA ANT800 Flat Panel Omni-Directional Antenna
The unique design of the RCA ANT800 makes it possible for this antenna to receive signals in areas that have otherwise poor reception. The SmartBoostTm amplifier allows for this great signal reception. It will definitely outperform most TV antennas that are currently available on the market.
The antenna can also be used with streaming players like Apple TV, Roku, Xbox, and much more. You will be able to watch live content and when paired with one of the options above, also be able to watch your on-demand programming.
Amazon Rating
The antenna is designed to withstand nearly all the weather conditions that mother nature can give. Wind, rain, storms — this antenna will withstand all of that.
And mounting this antenna is so easy. The mounting equipment for this antenna is included in your purchase. You simply fit it to your wall, roof and even the attic.
It is even paintable, so it can be matched to your house, if you don’t like the black color.
Specifications
- Weight – 5.1 pounds
- Dimensions – 15.3 x 4.3 x 14 inches
- Reception Distance – 60 miles
Pros
- No need for frequent adjustments
- Easy installation and user friendly
- Paintable (don’t use a metallic paint though)
- Great for areas with difficult reception
Cons
- May not offer the best signal reception if outside of normal range
- May be hard to install for a beginner
2. The ClearStream Amplifier TV Antenna
If you prefer an indoor antenna and want something that is streamlined and won’t take up a lot of space, this option from ClearStream should definitely be an option to consider.
The surface is paintable so you do not have to worry about it sticking out. It can also be placed onto a wall or glass window thanks to the Suregrip surface. This also makes it easy to move around.
Amazon Rating
The 20 dB in-line amplifier was designed to provide added range and maximize signal reception possible. This also means that this antenna can access more channels easier. The great thing is that you don’t need to aim it in a certain direction or move it around to do this.
It is also recommended to use the cable that is supplied with the antenna, as other cables may not be as efficient.
Lastly, it only uses power when you turn your TV, so there is no unnecessary power usage.
Specifications
- Weight – 1.65 pounds
- Dimensions – 12 x 0.52 x 16 inches
- Reception Distance – 50 miles
Pros
- Easy installation and user friendly
- Very good reception
- Antenna is easily removable, so you can take is with you at any time
Cons
- Doesn’t support low VHF frequencies
- May not stick to a surface as well after the first application
3. The ANTAN Indoor Antenna
Through antennas you are able to pick up local network broadcasts and even some more major networks as well. You will be able to watch full HD, crystal clear shows with this antenna due to the built-in booster.
The antenna scans continuously for new channels, so you can always keep up to date with new channels as they become available. The antenna is also very easy to set up, requiring only a small surface for it to stick to.
Amazon Rating
Setting it up with your TV is a no-brainer, you can simply connect it directly into your TV’s tuner port. Or, you can set it up through a set-top box for TV’s without tuners. Then, you simply need to find the perfect spot for the antenna and you are set to start watching some great shows.
Specifications
- Weight – 13.7 ounces
- Dimensions – 11.97 x 8.7 x 1.54 inches
- Reception Distance – 45 – 65 miles
Pros
- Easy set up and user friendly
- Can be fitted to a wall, glass window, or simply lay it flat
- Can watch programs in HD resolutions
Cons
- Difficulty connecting to towers within range if weather conditions are poor
- Low channel count if outside of normal range
4. The ViewTV Antenna
Another antenna that is easy to install, the ViewTV antenna simply needs to be stuck to a wall or window for it to work. You can even lay it down flat if the surface is tall.
With this package, you will also receive a detachable amplifier but be sure to test whether the reception works better with or without the amplifier, as sometimes the amplifier disturbs the signal more than it improves image quality. To maximize your reception it is recommended to put your antenna high up on a window.
Amazon Rating
Should you maybe want to move the antenna in your house, no problem. Once you have connected the antenna do an automatic channel search and you should be ready to watch your favorite show in no time.
Plus, this antenna is rated for 4K resolutions.
Specifications
- Weight – 1.05 pounds
- Dimensions – 13.3 x 11.5 x 2 inches
- Reception Distance – 60 miles
Pros
- 4K ultra clear images with proper setup
- Easy to install and move around
Cons
- Not an omni-directional antenna
- Durability concerns
- Need to rerun channel search any time you move the antenna
5. The RCA Outdoor Yagi Satellite Antenna
With an average range of 70 miles, you will be able to receive UHF and VHF stations in 4K, 8K and 1080 HDTV for the highest quality picture and sound of any antenna on this list. The RCA Outdoor Yagi Satellite Antenna was designed to withstand all the elements of mother nature. Designed and built with durable materials, you can be assured that this antenna will be with you for quite some time.
Amazon Rating
As one potential downside, the advanced offerings of this antenna also make installation a bit more difficult. It does, however, have a pre-assembled design that easily clips together with snap-lock elements that keep everything in place. Aside from coax cables, this package comes with everything you need for free over-the-air viewing.
Specifications
- Weight – 2 pounds
- Dimensions – 32.5 x 33.1 x 24.2
- Reception Distance – 70 miles
Pros
- Receives 4K, 8K and 1080 HDTV signals
- Receives a lot of channels that other antennas don’t
- Perfect to be installed in your attic or outdoors
- Range of at least 70 miles
Cons
- May be somewhat more difficult to install than the other options
- Slightly more expensive
6. The Loutsbe Amplified Antenna
This antenna can receive a lot of top channels like NBC Live, ABC, PBC, FOX, and so on. You simply need to connect your antenna to the TV, run an auto search, and you can then start watching free TV. The images will be crisp and sharp, making it an absolute joy to watch.
The antenna is super slim and delivers a high performance reception due to the larger surface area of the “dish.” Provided you have the space, this antenna can sit just about anywhere inside of your house, though a window probably affords the best reception.
Amazon Rating
So, if you are ready for high quality TV without the expensive monthly cable bill, then this is definitely a great option for you.
Specifications
- Weight – 11.2 ounces
- Dimensions – 12.9 x 9 x 2 inches
- Reception Distance – 80
Pros
- Long cord that allows you to reach windows with ease
- Easy installation
- 4K
- Large antenna improves quality of reception
- Channel clarity is great
Cons
- Obstacles can cause major issues with reception
- Larger antenna may be cumbersome in tight spaces
Buyer’s Guide
So, now that we have had a look at the best TV surf antennas, hopefully your decision is a little bit easier. Each of these are great choices that won’t break the bank. In fact, all these options are far cheaper than the average monthly cable bill and will save you a significant amount of money every year.
While you may not get all the same channels you would from a cable or satellite subscription, most of the common channels are still available. This makes it perfect for casual TV viewers.
But, there are a few things that you have to keep in mind that can affect the quality of the signal that you will be receiving. You will need to make sure that you have a clear space in which you are directing the antennas as high buildings and tall trees can compromise the quality of signal that you will be receiving.
It will also be good to check beforehand to see which towers are in your area and how far they are from you. If you have a good idea of what the towers around you offer, it makes the whole selecting process of an antenna a bit easier. Plus, you will already know the general direction that you need to point your antenna.
Additionally, it’s important to remember that there are different types of antennas that generally offer different features. Flat omni-directional antennas are usually smaller and can often be attached to windows or walls for easy installations. However, these may not offer as great a range or focus as single-direction antennas — though, these tend to be more cumbersome.
As a bonus, something that you must keep in mind is your cable length requirements. Having good coaxial cable is a must when it comes to over-the-air TV. Cheap cable will not transmit good image quality, but this also does not mean you have to break the bank. Another tip: a few extra feet of cable can come in quite handy if you need to reposition your antenna later.
Finally, check for an antenna that has an amplifier that you can add or remove as you please. This will give you the option of boosting your signal if you are using your antenna on a boat or RV.
Conclusion
Well, we hope that with this you will be able to choose the perfect antenna for your house or vehicle. The best TV Surf antennas will allow you to watch free TV almost anywhere you are.
If you liked this guide, please feel free to check out our other guides too!
Related Posts
Long Range TV Antennas
The 7 Best Outdoor TV Antenna Mounts
Best Outdoor TV Antenna Mount for a Metal Building: A Review of 3 Products
The Best Outdoor TV Antenna Amplifier: A Review of 6 Products
Best IPTV Box
Seven Best Portable TVs
The Best Digital Signal Finders for TV – A Review
A Review of the Best TV Antenna Amplifiers Available Today
