Cutting the cord and switching to a smart TV can be a great way to save money on your monthly cable bill. But if you don’t have access to streaming services or if you just want to watch free over-the-air channels, you’ll need a good outdoor TV antenna.
Choosing the right antenna can be tricky, especially with so many different options available on the market. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best outdoor TV antennas for smart TVs that are easy to install.
We’ve considered everything from range and reception to design and price to find the best antennas that will give you the best possible viewing experience. Whether you live in a rural area or a densely populated city, there’s an antenna on this list that’s perfect for you.
These antennas are all designed to work with smart TVs and are easy to install, even if you’re not a tech whiz. So ditch the expensive cable bill and start enjoying free, high-quality TV today.
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| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mohu Leaf 50 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| GE Pro 70 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 1byone Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Mohu Leaf 50
Dive deeper into Wirecutter Picks: 28 Best TV Antennas of 2024
A compact and stylish antenna designed for indoor use, offering excellent reception for local channels.
Specifications :
- Range: Up to 50 miles
- Type: Indoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Leaf-shaped
- Features: Easy to install, sleek design, good for smaller spaces
Reasons to buy :
- Sleek design: Fits seamlessly with any home decor.
- Easy setup: Simple installation with no technical expertise required.
- Compact size: Perfect for small apartments or rooms.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited range: May not pick up all channels in areas with poor signal strength.
- Not ideal for outdoor use: Intended for indoor use only.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a stylish antenna that's easy to install.
- You live in a location with decent signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a long-range antenna.
- You plan on using it outdoors.
Bottom Line:
The Mohu Leaf 50 is an excellent choice for those seeking a sleek, easy-to-install antenna for indoor use. Its compact design and decent range make it a perfect solution for small spaces. However, if you need a long-range antenna or plan to use it outdoors, you'll need to consider other options. This antenna is best suited for apartments or homes with good signal reception.
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Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V
This powerful antenna offers excellent range and clear picture quality, perfect for capturing a wide variety of channels.
Specifications :
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Type: Outdoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Flat, sleek design with multiple directional options
- Features: Powerful reception, weather-resistant, multiple mounting options
Reasons to buy :
- Long range: Able to pick up channels from a significant distance.
- Weatherproof design: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Versatile mounting options: Can be mounted on a roof, wall, or window.
Reasons to avoid :
- Larger size: More noticeable than compact antennas.
- Requires professional installation: May require help for installation, depending on location and mounting preference.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need an antenna with a long range.
- You live in an area with weak signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You want a compact, discreet antenna.
- You prefer easy self-installation.
Bottom Line:
The Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V is an excellent option for those who need a powerful antenna with extended range. Its ability to receive a wide variety of channels and its weather-resistant design make it a reliable choice for areas with weak signal strength. However, its larger size and potential need for professional installation may not be ideal for everyone.
GE Pro 70
A versatile and reliable antenna that can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering a good balance of performance and price.
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Specifications :
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Type: Indoor/Outdoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Flat, compact with multiple directional options
- Features: Easy installation, versatile placement, good performance
Reasons to buy :
- Indoor/outdoor use: Provides flexibility for installation.
- Affordable price: Offers good value for the performance.
- Compact design: Doesn't take up much space.
Reasons to avoid :
- May require amplification: Some users may need to add a separate amplifier for optimal performance in areas with weak signal.
- Limited range compared to high-end options: Might not reach distant channels in areas with weak signal.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a versatile antenna that can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- You're looking for a budget-friendly option.
Don't buy it if:
- You need the longest possible range.
- You live in a remote area with very weak signal.
Bottom Line:
The GE Pro 70 is a solid choice for users seeking a versatile and affordable antenna. Its ability to be used both indoors and outdoors provides flexibility, and its compact size makes it easy to place. While its range may not be as impressive as high-end options, it performs well in most areas and offers good value for the price.
1byone Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna
A budget-friendly option for basic TV reception with good performance for close-range channels.
Specifications :
- Range: Up to 50 miles
- Type: Indoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Small, compact with a flat, low-profile design.
- Features: Easy installation, affordable price, good for basic channels
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price: One of the most affordable antennas on the market.
- Easy installation: Comes with a clear setup guide and requires no technical expertise.
- Compact design: Perfect for small spaces.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited range: Only suitable for locations with strong signals.
- May not pick up all channels: Performance can be inconsistent depending on location.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for an inexpensive antenna for basic TV reception.
- You live in a location with good signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You need an antenna with a long range.
- You live in an area with weak signal strength.
Bottom Line:
The 1byone Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna is a good option for those who need a basic antenna at an affordable price. Its compact size and easy installation make it convenient for small spaces, and it performs well for local channels in areas with strong signals. However, its limited range may not be suitable for those living in areas with weak signal or needing to pick up distant channels.
Winegard FlatWave Amplified HDTV Antenna
A sleek and compact antenna with excellent performance, designed for indoor use and offering a good balance of range and style.
Find more on 7 Best Outdoor TV Antennas for Smart TVs: Long Range Reception
Specifications :
- Range: Up to 60 miles
- Type: Indoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Flat, sleek design with a modern aesthetic.
- Features: Easy installation, powerful performance for its size, good for smaller spaces.
Reasons to buy :
- Sleek design: Blends seamlessly with modern home decor.
- Good range: Provides decent reception even in areas with moderate signal strength.
- Compact size: Takes up minimal space.
Reasons to avoid :
- May not be suitable for all locations: Performance can vary depending on signal strength.
- Not ideal for outdoor use: Intended for indoor use only.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a stylish antenna that's both powerful and compact.
- You live in a location with moderate signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a long-range antenna.
- You plan on using it outdoors.
Bottom Line:
The Winegard FlatWave Amplified HDTV Antenna is a good option for those seeking a stylish and compact antenna that delivers good performance. Its sleek design and impressive range make it suitable for many locations, and its compact size makes it easy to place in any room. However, its performance may not be ideal in all areas, and it's only designed for indoor use.
RCA ANT751 Indoor HDTV Antenna
A basic and affordable option that's easy to set up, ideal for users seeking a simple antenna for local channels.
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Specifications :
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Type: Indoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Small, compact with a simple, basic design.
- Features: Easy installation, affordable price, good for basic channels.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price: One of the cheapest antennas on the market.
- Easy setup: Simple installation process with minimal effort required.
- Compact design: Takes up minimal space.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited range: Suitable for locations with strong signals only.
- Basic performance: Might not pick up all channels depending on location.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're on a tight budget and need a simple antenna for local channels.
- You live in a location with strong signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You need an antenna with a long range.
- You live in an area with weak signal strength.
Bottom Line:
The RCA ANT751 Indoor HDTV Antenna is a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a simple and easy-to-install antenna for basic TV reception. Its affordability and compact design make it suitable for those with limited space and needing to pick up local channels. However, its short range and basic performance may not be ideal for all locations or those needing to receive a wide variety of channels.
AmazonBasics Indoor HDTV Antenna
A no-frills antenna that offers good value for the price, providing basic reception for local channels in areas with decent signal strength.
Specifications :
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Type: Indoor
- Amplified: Yes
- Design: Small, compact with a basic, unassuming design.
- Features: Easy installation, affordable price, good for basic channels.
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price: Offers great value for the price.
- Easy setup: Simple installation with clear instructions.
- Compact size: Doesn't take up much space.
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited range: Only suitable for locations with strong signals.
- Basic performance: Might not pick up all channels depending on location.
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a budget-friendly antenna for basic TV reception.
- You live in a location with strong signal strength.
Don't buy it if:
- You need an antenna with a long range.
- You live in an area with weak signal strength.
Bottom Line:
The AmazonBasics Indoor HDTV Antenna is an affordable and practical option for those seeking a simple antenna for local channels. Its compact size and easy installation make it convenient for small spaces, and it performs well for basic channels in areas with strong signals. However, its limited range may not be suitable for those living in areas with weak signal or needing to pick up distant channels.
So, there you have it! We hope our guide has helped you find the perfect outdoor TV antenna for your smart TV. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. Remember, a good antenna can save you hundreds of dollars per year on cable bills, and with the right setup, you can enjoy crystal-clear picture quality and a wide selection of free channels.
Installing an outdoor TV antenna might seem daunting at first, but it's actually quite simple, especially with the user-friendly designs and helpful instructions provided by most manufacturers. Don't be afraid to give it a try! You'll be amazed at the quality of the free TV programming available in your area.
Before you make your final decision, consider the factors we’ve discussed: range, signal strength, weather resistance, and aesthetics. Once you've taken these factors into account, you'll be well on your way to enjoying free, high-quality television at home. Happy viewing!
Finally, remember that the best outdoor TV antenna for you will depend on your specific needs and location. We encourage you to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase. And, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a local electronics retailer or a professional antenna installer.
Karim 
Bilal