Intro
HDTV antennas offer an ideal low-cost alternative to cable and satellite TV. In essence, HDTV antennas function much like they did in the past; you set up the antenna and enjoy free access to broadcast networks like ABC, NBC and PBS, plus many more. Local news, sports and children’s programming are all free when you have an HDTV antenna. And unlike antennas of the past, HDTV antennas pick up Full HD TV signals with 5.1 Surround Sound, typically from broadcast towers fifty or more miles away from your home. With a good HDTV antenna, you get Full HD 1080 transmissions with ultra-clear sound, without the hassle of contracts or a monthly fee.
What to look for when buying an HDTV antenna at Walmart
The most important thing to look for in an HDTV antenna is whether or not it’s for outdoor or indoor use. Outdoor will generally yield the highest quality pictures, without interference. However, for some people, placing the HDTV antenna in the attic might be necessary.
Another major factor to consider when buying an HDTV antenna is your distance from broadcast towers. Go online and see how far away nearby towers are from your home. Armed with this information, you can choose an HDTV antenna that has the range you need. In general, you’ll want to go for an antenna with at least a fifty-mile range. Depending on how rural or distant you are from ma broadcast tower, you may require an even greater range.
Because antennas require good reception, both rural and city areas can be problematic from that standpoint. In the country, you have tall trees, which can cause interference, while tall buildings in the city can do the same. If you live in an area where either of these things might be an issue, opt for an HDTV antenna that explicitly takes that challenge into consideration, because you’ll get the best results that way.
Finally, an HDTV antenna should be easy to assemble on your own as long as you have access to your roof. Check out antennas that come with everything you already need to get started. If you’ve never had cable or satellite before, you may need to setup a coaxial cable, but this isn’t too hard to do—it’s just something to be aware of.
Product reviews
Antennas Direct C2-J30-V ClearStream 2 Complete Long-Range UHF/VHF Antenna
Features
Indoor and Outdoor
The ClearStream 2 from Antennas Direct can be installed either indoors or outdoors for your convenience. Though outdoor installation will yield best results, some homeowners may find it necessary to install inside. Because of this versatility, it’s a great option for those who may live in neighborhoods that have guidelines regarding outdoor antennas.
60-mile range
Because the ClearStream 2 antenna is more powerful than other antennas up to ten times its size, it has a very broad range and is able to receive crystal clear transmissions from towers 60 miles away. This makes it a great option for those who live in rural areas, who may live some distance away from the nearest broadcast tower.
Patented loop design
The ClearStream 2 features a loop design which allows it to intercept more frequencies than standard HDTV antennas, which allows your TV to receive a wider variety of channels. This patented design also enables you to receive signals from broadcast towers that aren’t arranged in a typical fashion, such as when towers or closer together; because of the ClearStream 2’s exclusive technology, you can also receive signals from towers located in multiple cities without the worry of interference.
Durability
As an outdoor antenna, the ClearStream 2 is designed to be durable enough to handle intense weather conditions and various temperature changes. Antennas Direct is so confident in the superiority of their design that they back it with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
What to like:
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Receives shows in 1080p FHD
- 50+ mile range
- Loop design enables wider array of signal reception
- Durable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
What to consider:
- The range is only just over 50 miles; however, if you’re not too far away from a broadcast tower, this isn’t a big deal.
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Ematic HD TV Motorized Outdoor Antenna with 150-Mile Range
Features
150-mile range
Perhaps the most important and standout feature of the Ematic HDTV Motorized Outdoor Antenna is the fact that it boasts a 150-mile range. This is perfect for people in rural areas, or those who live far away from cities with broadcasting towers.
Motorized rotation
To make the most out its 150-mile range, the Ematic HDTV Motorized Outdoor Antenna is, as the name suggests, motorized. The reason this motorization is so key is that it allows the antenna to make a complete motorized 360-degree rotation, so that you can be sure to get the clearest signal possible. For your convenience, the motorized rotation can be control via remote control.
HDTV and FM radio signals
Whether it’s digital TV UHF or VHF signals, the Ematic HDTV antenna allows you to receive your shows in 1080p Full HD, so that you can view your favorite TV shows as they were meant to be seen. Moreover, this antenna also acts as an FM radio receiver, so when you’re not watching TV, you can listen to music with crystal clear sound quality.
Weather resistant
Weather is often a concern for HDTV antenna owners, and old-fashioned antenna designs haven’t really done much to instill confidence in the whole antenna ownership thing. However, modern antennas are much more durable than their archaic counterparts, and the Ematic HDTV Motorized Outdoor Antenna is designed to be weather resistant to meet the needs of those who live in an area with a highly changeable climate.
Pros
What to like:
- UHF/VHF signals are delivered in 1080p FHD
- Doubles as a FM radio receiver
- Weather resistant
- Motorized rotation controllable via remote for better signal capture
- Broad, 150-mile range
- Comes with control box and remote control
Cons
What to consider:
- The antenna pole isn’t included, but if you already own one, this won’t really matter. If you don’t own one, they’re not that expensive, and the cost you save by owning an HDTV antenna verses cable or satellite will make up for the cost of the pole quite quickly.
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GE Pro Flat Panel HD Antenna
Features
Indoor antenna
Many HDTV antennas are designed exclusively for outdoor use; however, the GE Pro Flat Panel HD Antenna is primed for indoor use. While some may prefer an outdoor antenna, for many that simply isn’t an option. Whether they live in a climate with volatile weather, or they’re unable to climb up to the roof and install or maintain their antenna, an indoor option is a great alternative for people whose needs necessitate it.
Low profile design
Since it’s meant to be used indoors, naturally this antenna had to look great. Its black, sleek and slim design allows it to fade into the background, without disrupting the look of your home.
30-mile range
Often indoor antennas have range issues, but that’s not the case with the GE Pro Flat Panel HD Antenna. Because it’s designed specifically for indoor usage, it’s able to meet its 30-mile range with ease. All you have to do is point the antenna in the direction of a broadcast tower, and you’re good to go.
Easy to install
One of the benefits of getting an indoor antenna is that they’re simply easier to install than outdoor antennas. Not only are there no roofs involved, the overall setup is easier, especially with the aid of the universal connection on this model.
Pros
What to like:
- Receive clear picture in 1080p Full HD
- Slim, low profile design looks great indoors
- Watch your favorite local channels and any broadcast channels in range
- 30-mile range
- Easy installation
- Meant for indoors—great option for those who are unable or don’t wish to use an outdoor antenna
Cons
What to consider:
- The range is only 30 miles, but you have to balance this with the fact that it’s an indoor antenna, which is simply more convenient for most people. Plus, if you live within 30 miles of a broadcast tower, a 30-mile range is all you need anyway.
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Mohu Mini Flat 25-Mile HDTV Antenna
Features
Compact
Because this is a mini HDTV antenna, it fits in even the tightest of spaces like mobile homes and dorm rooms. As a bonus, it has a very slim profile so it doesn’t take up too much room.
Indoor antenna
Indoor antennas are great for people who live in areas with bad weather or for those who don’t have the option for using an outdoor antenna. Plus, you don’t have to worry about climbing on the roof to install them, which makes them a great option for most, who simply just don’t want the hassle.
25-mile range
The Mohu Mini Flat antenna features an impressive 25-mile range, making it great for those who live in dorms and apartments where there are towers nearby.
Reversible and customizable
One of the coolest features about the Mohu Mini Flat antenna—and why it would make a great choice for young urbanites—is the fact that it has a cool industrial aesthetic; it’s reversible, being black on one side and white on the other, so you can choose which side best fits your aesthetic. And if having two color options aren’t enough, you’re in luck: You can paint this HDTV antenna to fit the color scheme of your dreams.
Pros
What to like:
- Tiny and thin, doesn’t take up much room
- 25-mile range—great for such a small antenna
- Perfect for dorms and small apartments
- Flexible installation
- Easy installation
- Reversible, dual color design plus the ability to paint it to the color of your choosing
Cons
What to consider:
- The only downside to this model is the range is only 25 miles. However, you do have to consider the fact that it’s a mini antenna—it’s not made to reach a broad range. It’s designed for smaller spaces that are closer to broadcast towers, so if your home fits that description, the smaller broadcast range won’t be an issue.
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GE Pro Outdoor Yagi Antenna
Features
Compatible with both digital and analog TVs
Many HDTV antennas only work with digital TVs, which on the surface makes sense—digital TV for HD signals. However, many people still have analog TVs and don’t wish to give them up. As long as you have a digital converter box, you can use the GE Pro Outdoor Yagi Antenna with your analog TV
Attic-friendly
While this is primarily meant to be an outdoor antenna, if installing on the roof isn’t an option for you, you can install in your attic instead. Simply make sure your antenna is pointed to the nearest broadcast tower for best results.
4K Ultra HD Future Ready
As with most HDTV antennas, the GE Pro Outdoor Yagi Antenna is capable of displaying picture in 1080p Full HD. However, unlike most HDTV antennas, this model is ready for 4K Ultra HD, so if you are planning to upgrade your TV anytime soon, this might be a good, futureproof bet.
70-mile range
With an impressive 70-mile range, this is a great HDTV antenna for those who live in rural areas or who are looking for a specific broadcast tower they want to receive from.
Pros
What to like:
- Futureproof pictures thanks to being primed for 4K Ultra HD
- Receives TV pictures in 1080p FHD
- 70-mile range
- Install outdoors or in your attic
- Works with digital TVs as well as analog TVs, providing you have a converter box for analog
Cons
What to consider:
This is more of a nitpick than a true con, but with its already impressive bevy of features, it’d be nice if it also received FM radio signals to make the whole package feel more complete.
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