Want to cut the cord and start watching free TV? Our HDTV antenna buying guide covers everything from types of antennas to installation tips and factors that impact signal strength. Learn how to choose the best antenna for your needs and start enjoying your favorite local channels for free!
If you are considering buying an HDTV antenna to receive over-the-air (OTA) television signals, here are some important factors to consider:
- Signal strength: Check the signal strength in your area using online tools like AntennaWeb.org or TVFool.com. This will help you determine the type and range of antenna you need.
- Type of antenna: There are different types of HDTV antennas available, such as indoor antennas, outdoor antennas, and attic antennas. Choose the type that suits your needs and budget.
- Range: Choose an antenna with a range that matches the distance between your location and the broadcast towers. This will ensure that you receive clear and strong signals.
- Multi-directional vs. directional: Multi-directional antennas can receive signals from different directions, while directional antennas receive signals from a specific direction. Choose the type that suits your location and signal strength.
- Amplifier: If you are located far from broadcast towers or live in an area with weak signals, consider buying an antenna with an amplifier to boost the signal.
- Installation: Consider the ease of installation of the antenna. Indoor antennas are usually easy to install, while outdoor antennas require more effort and expertise.
- Price: HDTV antennas are available in different price ranges. Consider your budget and choose an antenna that offers good value for money.
- Reviews: Read reviews of different HDTV antennas online to get an idea of their performance, reliability, and user satisfaction.
By considering these factors, you can choose an HDTV antenna that meets your needs and helps you enjoy high-quality OTA television signals.
HDTV antenna – UHF and VHF
An HDTV antenna can receive digital TV signals in two frequency ranges: VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency), which are similar to the frequency ranges used for analog signals. VHF channels include low-band VHF (channels 2-6) and high-band VHF (channels 7-13), while UHF channels range from 14-51. In the US, there are over 1,800 full-power TV stations, with around 450 high-band VHF, fewer than 50 low-band VHF, and more than 1300 UHF stations. If you want to receive local stations that are below channel 14, especially channels 2-6, you’ll need a VHF/UHF antenna that covers channels 2-51. The difference between UHF and VHF antennas is mainly size. Antenna elements are designed to receive waves of a particular size, and VHF frequencies have longer waves that require a larger antenna surface to receive them.
Indoor vs. outdoor HD antennas
- Range: Outdoor antennas generally have a longer range than indoor antennas. This means that they can receive signals from farther away, which can be helpful if you live in a rural area or if the broadcast towers are far away.
- Signal quality: Outdoor antennas can often provide a stronger and more consistent signal than indoor antennas, especially if there are obstacles like buildings or trees blocking the signal.
- Installation: Outdoor antennas are more difficult to install than indoor antennas. They usually require mounting on a roof or other high location and may require professional installation. Indoor antennas, on the other hand, can be placed anywhere in your home and are easy to set up.
- Cost: Outdoor antennas are generally more expensive than indoor antennas due to their larger size and higher range.
- Aesthetics: Outdoor antennas can be larger and more noticeable, which may not be desirable if you are concerned about the appearance of your home. Indoor antennas, on the other hand, are usually small and unobtrusive.
Outdoor antennas are generally better if you live far from the broadcast towers or if you need a stronger signal due to obstacles. However, if you live in an urban area with good signal strength, an indoor antenna may be a more practical and cost-effective option.
To improve reception or overcome size or height limitations, HDTV antennas can be amplified. Amplification can be achieved through a built-in amplifier in many indoor antennas or a separate device. However, amplifiers can amplify noise along with the signal, which can degrade the signal quality. Additionally, strong signals can cause amplifiers to be overdriven, resulting in a worse reception. Therefore, while amplified antennas can be beneficial in certain situations, they should be used with caution and only when necessary. Non-amplified antennas are a reliable option for areas with good signal strength and can provide clear and consistent reception without the potential drawbacks of amplification.
Adding a TV HD antenna can provide several benefits, even if you have never used one before. Here are some reasons to consider adding one to your TV signal sources:
OTA signals are free: Once you purchase and install an HD antenna, receiving over-the-air TV is free. This can save you money on monthly cable or satellite bills.
Local TV broadcasts are widespread: Over 99% of U.S. TV households can receive at least one local station, and 89% can get five or more stations. This means that even if you live in a rural area, you may still be able to receive local channels.
Excellent picture quality: Cable and satellite providers offer hundreds of channels, but they often use data compression or other techniques that can compromise picture quality. Over-the-air TV signals provide excellent picture quality without any loss due to data compression.
Supplemental content: Over-the-air TV often includes supplemental content, such as sports or news programming, that may not be available through cable or satellite providers.
Emergency preparedness: In the event of a power outage or other emergency, over-the-air TV signals can still be received with a battery-powered TV and an HD antenna, providing access to important news and emergency information.
Adding a TV HD antenna can provide free local channels with excellent picture quality, and also offer supplemental content and emergency preparedness benefits.
Do you need an HD antenna for a smart TV?
Many smart TVs come with an OTA tuner onboard, even though most people do not use it. The primary difference between a television and a monitor is this onboard tuner. With the rise of smart TVs, cord-cutters can now directly connect to the internet for on-demand streaming and live TV. Streaming services typically require a subscription fee, while an antenna can receive free signals without the need for an internet connection. While it is not necessary to have an antenna to use a smart TV, the two can complement each other well.
An HDTV antenna is a device that receives free over-the-air TV signals from broadcast towers in your area. These signals can provide excellent picture quality, as cable and satellite providers often use data compression that can compromise picture quality. HDTV antennas come in indoor and outdoor varieties, with amplified and non-amplified options available. Factors that impact signal strength include terrain, the frequency coming from the broadcast tower, where you install the antenna, and obstacles between your home and the TV towers. With a range of channels available from major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS, and more, an HDTV antenna can be a great addition to your home entertainment setup.