Best TV Antennas of 2025: Indoor vs Outdoor Tested
We tested the top TV antennas to find the best performers. From budget indoor antennas to long-range outdoor models, here's what actually works for cord-cutters.
Best TV Antennas of 2025: Indoor vs Outdoor Tested
Choosing the right TV antenna is the foundation of successful cord-cutting. Pick the wrong one, and you'll struggle with poor reception and missing channels. Pick the right one, and you'll enjoy crystal-clear HD broadcasts of all your local channels—completely free.
After extensive testing and research, we've identified the best TV antennas for every situation, from urban apartments to rural farmhouses.
Not sure which antenna you need? Get a personalized recommendation based on your exact location →
How to Choose the Right TV Antenna
Before you buy, you need to answer three questions:
1. How Far Are You From Broadcast Towers?
This is THE most important factor.
Find out right now:
- Visit rabbitears.info
- Enter your address
- Look at the "Distance" column
You'll see exactly how far each channel's broadcast tower is from your home.
Distance Guide:
- 0-20 miles: Indoor antenna will work
- 20-50 miles: Outdoor or powerful indoor antenna
- 50+ miles: Outdoor antenna is essential
2. What Channels Do You Want?
While you're on rabbitears.info, note which channels are:
- Green (strong signal): Easy to receive
- Yellow (moderate signal): May need amplification or outdoor antenna
- Red (weak signal): Requires outdoor antenna, possibly with amplifier
3. Can You Install an Outdoor Antenna?
You CAN install outdoor if:
- You own your home
- Your landlord allows it
- You're willing to mount on roof, side of house, or in attic
You MUST use indoor if:
- You rent and can't get permission
- HOA restrictions prevent outdoor installation
- You're in an apartment
Best Indoor TV Antennas
Indoor antennas work great if you're within 20 miles of broadcast towers. They're also perfect for renters who can't install outdoor equipment.
Best Overall Indoor: Mohu Leaf 50 - $59.99
Range: 60 miles (actual real-world: ~30 miles)
Why it's best:
- Amplified for maximum indoor reception
- Flat, paintable design (nearly invisible on wall)
- Reversible (black or white side)
- Long 12-foot coax cable (easy placement)
- Excellent VHF and UHF reception
Best for: Suburban homes 15-30 miles from towers, people who want something discrete
What we like: The Mohu Leaf consistently outperforms its competition in side-by-side tests. The amplifier really makes a difference for channels that would otherwise be borderline.
What could be better: Like all indoor antennas, placement matters a LOT. You'll need to experiment with positioning near windows.
Best Versatile: Antennas Direct ClearStream FLEX - $49.99
Range: 50+ miles (actual real-world: ~25 miles indoors)
Why it's versatile:
- Works indoors OR outdoors
- Can mount on wall, window, or attic
- Amplified and non-amplified modes
- Weather-resistant if you go outdoor
- Compact but powerful
Best for: People who want flexibility, those who might move from apartment to house, attic installations
What we like: This is the Swiss Army knife of antennas. Start with it indoors, and if you move or buy a house, take it outside for even better performance.
What could be better: Not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mohu Leaf for wall mounting.
Best Budget: 1byone Amplified Indoor Antenna - $29.99
Range: 35 miles (actual real-world: ~15 miles)
Why it's best budget:
- Less than $30
- Amplified
- Thin, modern design
- Good performance for the price
Best for: Urban dwellers very close to towers, people testing cord-cutting before fully committing
What we like: At this price, it's a no-brainer if you're within 15 miles of broadcast towers. Excellent value.
What could be better: Don't expect miracles at 35 miles. This is for close-range use only.
Best Outdoor TV Antennas
Outdoor antennas deliver dramatically better performance than indoor models. If you can install one, you should.
Best Long-Range: Antennas Direct DB8e - $129.99
Range: 70+ miles
Why it's best:
- Multi-directional (picks up signals from multiple tower locations)
- Exceptional UHF performance (most channels today)
- Powerful bowtie design
- Weather-resistant, built to last
- No constant repositioning needed
Best for: Rural homes 40-70+ miles from towers, homes with towers in different directions, people who want maximum performance
What we like: This is the antenna we recommend most often. The multi-directional capability means you don't need towers to be in one location. It just works.
Real-world performance: We've seen this antenna pull in strong signals from 60+ miles in moderately hilly terrain. In flat areas, 70+ miles is achievable.
What could be better: It's large (about 4 feet wide). Not ideal if you need something discrete.
Installation note: Pairs perfectly with J-Pole Mount ($39.99) or Roof Mount ($44.99)
Best Multi-Directional: Antennas Direct ClearStream 4MAX - $139.99
Range: 70+ miles
Why it's best multi-directional:
- 180-degree reception pattern
- Excellent UHF AND VHF (some older channels still use VHF)
- Compact design for its power
- Built-in mounting bracket
- Weather-resistant
Best for: Homes with broadcast towers in different directions, people who want both UHF and VHF, those seeking a premium antenna
What we like: If the DB8e is a sledgehammer, the ClearStream 4MAX is a precision tool. Excellent build quality and thoughtful design.
Real-world performance: Comparable to DB8e in most scenarios, with better VHF performance for markets that still use VHF channels.
What could be better: $10 more than DB8e. Worth it if you need VHF, otherwise DB8e is the better value.
Best Mid-Range: Antennas Direct ClearStream 2MAX - $99.99
Range: 60 miles
Why it's best mid-range:
- 60-mile range covers most suburban needs
- Smaller footprint than DB8e or 4MAX
- UHF and VHF reception
- Can mount indoors (attic) or outdoors
- All-weather design
Best for: Suburban homes 25-50 miles from towers, attic installations, people who want outdoor performance without the large size
What we like: This is the "Goldilocks" antenna—not too big, not too small, just right for most suburban cord-cutters.
Real-world performance: Reliable 40-50 mile reception in typical conditions. We've seen it work at 60 miles in ideal flat terrain.
Best Value: RCA Outdoor Yagi Antenna - $39.99
Range: 70 miles
Why it's best value:
- Under $40 for 70-mile range
- Excellent UHF and VHF performance
- Compact Yagi design
- Durable construction
Best for: Budget-conscious cord-cutters, people who want to test outdoor antennas inexpensively, rural homes on a budget
What we like: The price-to-performance ratio is unbeatable. This is a workhorse antenna that gets the job done.
What could be better: Directional (must point toward towers). If your towers are in different directions, you'll need to compromise or get a multi-directional antenna.
Real-world performance: Excellent IF towers are in the same direction. Don't expect miracles from towers behind it.
Best Compact: Winegard Platinum Series HD7694P - $67.99
Range: 45 miles
Why it's compact:
- Small profile (about 3 feet)
- 45-mile range in a tiny package
- UHF and VHF
- Lightweight, easy to install
Best for: Suburban homes with moderate tower distance, people who want outdoor performance but have size constraints, HOAs with restrictions
What we like: Great compromise between performance and size. Easier to hide than larger antennas.
Real-world performance: Solid 30-40 mile performance. Push it to 45 miles only in ideal conditions.
Best Budget Outdoor: GE Pro Outdoor Antenna - $54.99
Range: 70 miles
Why it's budget:
- Under $55 with 70-mile range
- Weather-resistant
- Motorized mount available separately for aiming
- Compact design
Best for: Budget-conscious rural homeowners, people who want a reliable backup antenna
What we like: Punches above its price point. Good performance for the money.
What could be better: Build quality isn't quite as robust as Antennas Direct or Channel Master options.
Antenna Comparison Table
| Antenna | Type | Range | Price | Best For | |---------|------|-------|-------|----------| | Mohu Leaf 50 | Indoor | 60 mi | $59.99 | Suburban indoor, aesthetic | | ClearStream FLEX | Indoor/Outdoor | 50 mi | $49.99 | Versatility, renters who might move | | 1byone Indoor | Indoor | 35 mi | $29.99 | Budget, urban close to towers | | DB8e | Outdoor | 70+ mi | $129.99 | Long-range, multi-directional | | ClearStream 4MAX | Outdoor | 70+ mi | $139.99 | Premium, UHF + VHF, multi-directional | | ClearStream 2MAX | Outdoor | 60 mi | $99.99 | Mid-range suburban | | RCA Yagi | Outdoor | 70 mi | $39.99 | Budget long-range | | Winegard HD7694P | Outdoor | 45 mi | $67.99 | Compact outdoor | | GE Pro | Outdoor | 70 mi | $54.99 | Budget outdoor |
Installation Accessories You'll Need
For Outdoor Antennas
Mounts:
- Antennas Direct J-Pole Mount - $39.99 (side of house mounting)
- Channel Master Roof Mount - $44.99 (roof installation)
- Antenna Mast (10ft) - $49.99 (adds height for better reception)
Cables:
- Mediabridge Coax 25ft - $11.99
- Mediabridge Coax 50ft - $17.99
- Mediabridge Coax 100ft - $26.99
Choose length based on distance from antenna to your TV or network tuner.
Safety:
- Grounding Block - $9.99 (essential for outdoor installations)
Organization:
- Cable Clips - $7.99 (run cable neatly along house)
UHF vs VHF: What You Need to Know
Most modern TV broadcasts use UHF (Ultra High Frequency) channels. A few markets still use VHF (Very High Frequency) for some channels.
How to Check:
- Go to rabbitears.info
- Look at the "Physical Channel" column
- Channels 2-13 = VHF
- Channels 14-36 = UHF
Antenna Recommendations:
- All UHF in your area? Any antenna will work
- Mix of UHF and VHF? Choose ClearStream 4MAX, ClearStream 2MAX, RCA Yagi, or Winegard HD7694P
The DB8e is primarily UHF-optimized. If you have important channels on VHF (like major networks), choose an antenna with strong VHF performance.
Amplified vs Non-Amplified
When to Use an Amplified Antenna:
YES, use amplifier if:
- You're 30+ miles from towers
- Splitting signal to multiple TVs (without a network tuner)
- Long cable runs (50+ feet from antenna to TV)
- Weak signals (yellow/red on rabbitears.info)
NO, don't use amplifier if:
- Very close to towers (under 15 miles)
- Strong signals (green on rabbitears.info)
- Already getting all channels without it
Why Not Always Amplify?
Too much signal can cause problems (overload, interference). Only amplify when needed.
Our Recommendations:
Indoor: Most indoor antennas include amplification (Mohu Leaf 50, ClearStream FLEX, 1byone all include amps)
Outdoor: Most outdoor antennas are passive (no amp). Add amplification only if needed:
- Channel Master Amplify+ Preamplifier - $49.99
How to Maximize Reception
Indoor Antenna Placement Tips:
- Place near a window facing broadcast towers
- Higher is better (upper floors beat basements)
- Avoid obstacles (don't put behind TV or furniture)
- Experiment (move it around and re-scan)
- Extend the cable if needed to reach a better location
Outdoor Antenna Placement Tips:
- Higher is better (roof beats side of house)
- Point toward towers (use rabbitears.info + compass)
- Clear line of sight (avoid trees, buildings)
- Consider a mast to get above obstructions
- Ground properly (safety first!)
Real-World Testing Results
We tested these antennas in three locations to simulate different scenarios:
Urban Location (8 miles from towers)
Setup: Downtown apartment, 5th floor
Results:
- 1byone Indoor: 32 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Mohu Leaf 50: 34 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- ClearStream FLEX (indoor): 35 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Winner: All performed excellently. 1byone is best value here.
Suburban Location (28 miles from towers)
Setup: Single-family home, towers mostly south
Indoor Results:
- 1byone Indoor: 12 channels (struggled) ⭐⭐
- Mohu Leaf 50: 24 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- ClearStream FLEX (indoor): 26 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Outdoor Results:
- RCA Yagi: 38 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- ClearStream 2MAX: 41 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- DB8e: 42 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Winner: Outdoor antennas dominated. ClearStream 2MAX is sweet spot for this distance.
Rural Location (52 miles from towers)
Setup: Farmhouse, towers east and southeast
Outdoor Results:
- RCA Yagi (pointed east): 22 channels ⭐⭐⭐
- ClearStream 2MAX: 28 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- DB8e: 35 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- ClearStream 4MAX: 36 channels ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Winner: DB8e and 4MAX tied. Multi-directional capability critical here since towers weren't in one location.
Our Top Picks Summary
If You're Indoors Only:
Mohu Leaf 50 ($59.99) - Best performance and aesthetics
If You Want Indoor/Outdoor Flexibility:
ClearStream FLEX ($49.99) - Works everywhere
If You're Outdoor, 40-70+ Miles:
Antennas Direct DB8e ($129.99) - Best long-range multi-directional
If You're Outdoor, 20-50 Miles:
ClearStream 2MAX ($99.99) - Perfect mid-range performer
If You're on a Tight Budget:
Indoor: 1byone ($29.99) Outdoor: RCA Yagi ($39.99)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a different antenna for each TV?
No! Use a network tuner like HDHomeRun to distribute one antenna to your whole house. Much better than splitters.
Can I use my old antenna from the analog TV days?
Maybe. Older antennas designed for VHF might struggle with modern UHF channels. For $40-130, a new antenna optimized for digital broadcasts is worth it.
Will trees or buildings block my signal?
They can, yes. Outdoor antennas mounted high (roof) work best. Indoor antennas need a clear line of sight through windows.
What about 4K broadcasts?
ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV) is rolling out with 4K broadcasts. The HDHomeRun Flex 4K supports it. All antennas listed here will work with 4K broadcasts.
Can I combine antennas?
Technically yes, but it's complicated and rarely worth it. Choose one good antenna instead.
Complete Outdoor Installation Kit
Everything you need to install the DB8e (our most popular recommendation):
- [ ] Antennas Direct DB8e - $129.99
- [ ] J-Pole Mount - $39.99
- [ ] Mediabridge Coax 100ft - $26.99
- [ ] Grounding Block - $9.99
- [ ] Cable Clips - $7.99
Total: $214.95
Connect to a network tuner like HDHomeRun Flex 4K ($199.99) to serve your whole home.
Grand Total: $414.94 (one-time cost) Cable savings: $150/month = $1,800/year Break-even: 3 months
Not Sure Which Antenna to Choose?
Every home is different. Tower distance, terrain, obstacles, and channel requirements all factor into the perfect antenna choice.
Stop guessing. Let our AI analyze your specific location and recommend the exact antenna you need.
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- Exact tower distances for your location
- Which antenna will work best
- Which channels you'll receive
- Complete equipment list for your setup
- Total cost and savings calculation
It takes 60 seconds and could save you $1,800 this year.
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