Cord cutting has become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to save money on cable and satellite TV subscriptions. One of the best ways to do this is by using a TV antenna to access local channels for free.
However, with so many different antennas on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is the best for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best TV antennas for cord cutters, including both indoor and outdoor options, and discuss the features that make them stand out.
Whether you’re looking for a high-performance antenna for a large home or a compact option for an apartment, there’s sure to be something on this list that will suit your needs.
5 Best TV Antennas for Cord Cutters in 2023
1. Mohu Leaf Metro TV Antenna
The Mohu Leaf Metro TV Antenna is a compact and portable indoor antenna that offers a powerful 25-mile range for receiving free HDTV signals. Whether you’re looking to cut the cord on your cable or satellite subscription or simply want to access local channels in full 1080 HD, this antenna is the perfect solution.
The Leaf Metro is designed with UHF/Hi-VHF multi-directional elements that are reversible, making it easy to blend in with your home decor. You can hang it on your wall or in a window for optimal performance, and its paper-thin design makes it easy to install and take up minimal space in your home.
The included 10-foot detachable coaxial cable, hooks and loop tabs, and push pins make installation a breeze, and the antenna is perfect for city homes, dorm rooms, workshops, RVs and more. With its ability to receive channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Univision and many more, you’ll have access to a wide variety of programming options.
It is 4K-Ready, and made with premium materials for performance, The Mohu Leaf Metro TV Antenna is a great choice for cord-cutters who want to enjoy free HDTV without sacrificing style or performance. This antenna is made in the USA and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Pros
- Watch free HDTV for life.
- Receive TV signals 25-miles from the broadcast towers in full 1080 HD without a cable or satellite subscription
- UHF/Hi-VHF multi-directional elements are reversible and designed to blend with your home decor.
- Included 10 ft. detachable coaxial cable for easy installation.
- Designed to take up the least amount of space in your home without compromising signal reception strength.
Cons
- Obstructions unrelated to product performance can affect reception.
- Every location is unique in terms of local terrain, foliage, and where the antenna is installed may affect your TV signals.
- Cutting the cord can be difficult when you don’t have space for a large antenna.
2. Winegard FL5500A FlatWave Amped Digital HD Indoor Amplified TV Antenna
The Winegard FL5500A FlatWave Amped Digital HD Indoor Amplified TV Antenna is a high-performance antenna designed for cord-cutters looking to access local channels for free. With a range of up to 60 miles, this antenna is capable of receiving both high-VHF and UHF signals, and is 4K ready and ATSC 3.0 ready.
The embedded ultra-low noise amplifier with Clear Circuit Technology provides a typical noise figure of 1.0 dB, ensuring the best possible antenna performance. The included 18-foot long quality coaxial cable, energy-saving USB power supply with LED power indicator, and two 3M Command Brand Strips make installation a breeze.
The antenna is multi-directional, and is designed and made in the USA. With the Winegard FL5500A, you’ll be able to watch free HDTV for life, and receive a wide range of TV channels without the need for a cable or satellite subscription.
Pros
- High Definition dual band VHF/UHF
- Embedded ultra low noise (1db) digital amplifier for the best antenna performance.
- Energy Saving USB power supply with LED power indicator.
- 18.5′ Mini Coaxial Cable (Attached To Antenna For Better Quality)
- Designed and made in the USA
- Clear Circuit Technology : Ultra-low noise preamplifier embedded directly at the antenna elements.
Cons
- Limited to 50 mile range.
- The high-definition dual-band VHF/UHF might not be available for everyone, depending on the location.
- It may not be suitable for people who are looking for a larger range.
- The TV antenna is not very portable, it is designed to be placed in a fixed location.
3. Antennas Direct Clearstream 4 TV Antenna
The Antennas Direct ClearStream 4 TV Antenna is a powerful and versatile option for cord cutters looking to access local channels without a cable or satellite subscription. With a range of up to 70 miles, this UHF multi-directional antenna can pull in signals from broadcast towers with ease, making it ideal for suburban and rural areas.
The antenna is made from premium durable materials, and it can be used indoors, in an attic, or outdoors. It includes four patented loops to receive UHF signals, a 20″ mast with pivoting base for easy installation, 2 reflectors to add forward gain and protect the incoming TV signal from interference, all-weather mounting hardware, and an adjustable mast clamp.
The ClearStream 4 also comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty and excellent customer support 7 days a week, making it a reliable choice for all your TV watching needs.
Pros
- Four patented loops to receive UHF signals 70+ miles away from broadcast towers.
- Powerful antenna measures 17.4″ H x 27.8″ W x 6″ D; premium durable materials for use indoors, in an attic, or outdoors and ideal for suburban and rural areas
- Reflectors add forward gain and focus antenna’s power to protect incoming TV signal from interference that causes pixelation or complete loss of picture
- 20″ mast has pivoting base for installation on vertical or horizontal surfaces
- Lifetime manufacturer warranty
- Based in St. Louis, Mo., Antennas Direct is dedicated to providing superior digital antennas and accessories engineered in the USA, along with customer support 7 days a week.
Cons
- May require a professional installation, not suitable for those who are not familiar with the installation process.
- The TV antenna is not very portable, it is designed to be placed in a fixed location.
- It may not be suitable for people who are looking for a larger range.
- The powerful antenna measures 17.4″ H x 27.8″ W x 6″ D, it may take up more space than other models.
4. Channel Master Flatenna Ultra-Thin Indoor TV Antenna
The Channel Master Flatenna Ultra-Thin Indoor TV Antenna is the perfect solution for cord cutters looking to receive free local HDTV channels. With a reception range of up to 35 miles, this omni-directional antenna can pick up signals from all directions.
The dual-sided design, available in black or white, allows you to choose the color that best matches your home decor. The gain (VHF, UHF) is 3dB and 6dB respectively, ensuring a strong and reliable signal. The ultra-thin design ensures minimal visibility, making it a great option for those who want to keep a clean and sleek look.
The antenna also comes with a 9 x 13 x 0.25 inches dimensions, making it easy to install and place in any room of your home. This product is perfect for suburban and rural areas, and it is a great addition to any home for anyone looking for a cost-effective way to access HDTV channels.
Pros
- Reception range: up to 35 miles
- Omni-directional (receives signals from all directions)
- Dual-sided (black or white)
- Gain (VHF, UHF): 3dB, 6dB
- Ultra-thin design
Cons
- Limited to 35 miles range.
- The TV antenna is not very portable, it is designed to be placed in a fixed location.
- It may not be suitable for people who are looking for a larger range.
- The performance of the antenna might be affected by the location and the number of broadcast towers in the area.
- Some users have reported that the reception quality is not as good as other models.
5. Antennas Direct ClearStream Eclipse TV Antenna
The Antennas Direct ClearStream Eclipse TV Antenna is a compact and versatile indoor HDTV antenna that can receive free broadcast television from 35+ miles away from the towers. It features a patented loop in a paper-thin design that can grip to any smooth surface such as a wall or window, making it ideal for compact living spaces like apartments, dorm rooms, and RVs.
The ultra-thin antenna measures 10.1″ H x 8.6″ W x .04″ D and is low-profile. The reversible design is paintable to match the wall, furniture, or accent color, and the UHF element is multi-directional offering the same reliable signal reception from both sides.
The package includes the ClearStream Eclipse TV antenna, 12′ detachable high-performance coaxial cable, and peel and stick strip, also comes with a lifetime manufacturer warranty. It is engineered in the USA and has customer support 7 days a week.
Pros
- Patented loop in paper-thin design to receive free broadcast television 35+ miles away from towers
- Conveniently grips to any smooth surface, like a wall or window.
- Ultra-thin antenna measures 10.1″ H x 8.6″ W x .04″ D, low-profile, ideal for compact living spaces
- Reversible design is paintable to match wall, furniture, or accent color.
- The UHF element is multi-directional, offering the same reliable signal reception from both sides.
- Based in St. Louis, Mo., Antennas Direct is dedicated to providing superior digital antennas and accessories engineered in the USA, along with customer support 7 days a week
Cons
- Limited to 35 miles range.
- The TV antenna is not very portable, it is designed to be placed in a fixed location.
- It may not be suitable for people who are looking for a larger range.
- The low-profile design might not be suitable for those who have bigger living space.
How to Choose a Right TV Antennas for Cord Cutters
When choosing a TV antenna for cord cutting, there are a few important factors to consider:
Location
The location of your home can greatly affect the type of antenna you need. If you live in a suburban or rural area, a long-range outdoor antenna may be sufficient. However, if you live in an urban area with tall buildings and other obstacles, a more powerful outdoor antenna or an indoor amplifier may be necessary.
Channel Availability
Before purchasing an antenna, check what channels are available in your area. Websites such as AntennaWeb.org and TVFool.com can provide this information. This will help you determine the type of antenna you need to receive the channels you want.
Range
Long-range outdoor antennas can pick up signals from greater distances, but indoor antennas typically have a shorter range. Consider the range of the antenna before making your purchase.
Directional vs. Omnidirectional
Some antennas are directional, meaning they receive signals from one specific direction. Others are omnidirectional, meaning they receive signals from all directions. Consider the location of the nearest broadcast towers in relation to your home when deciding between these two types of antennas.
Amplification
If you live in an area with weak signals or in a location with obstacles that might block the signals, consider purchasing an amplifier. It will help boost the signal and provide a clearer picture.
Size and Design
Outdoor antennas tend to be larger and more bulky than indoor antennas. Consider the size and design of the antenna when making your purchase to ensure it will fit in the desired location.
Compatibility
Make sure that the antenna is compatible with your TV or streaming device before making your purchase.
Cost
TV antennas vary in price, so consider your budget when making your purchase. Before buying a TV antenna, you should consider your location, channel availability, range, direction, amplification, size, design and compatibility with your TV or streaming device and budget. With this guide, you will be able to make an informed decision when choosing a TV antenna for cord cutting.
FAQ’s
What is the Best Tv Antenna for Cord Cutters?
The best TV antenna for cord cutters will vary depending on your location and the channels you want to receive. Some popular options include the Mohu Leaf, the ClearStream Eclipse, and the Antennas Direct ClearStream Flex.
How Do I Know Which Tv Antenna to Buy?
To determine which TV antenna to buy, you should first check what channels are available in your area using a tool like TVFool or AntennaWeb. Then, choose an antenna that is capable of receiving those channels and has a range that covers your location.
Can I Use an Indoor Tv Antenna for Cord Cutting?
Yes, you can use an indoor TV antenna for cord cutting. However, keep in mind that indoor antennas may not have as strong of a signal as outdoor antennas, and you may not be able to receive all the channels available in your area.
How Do I Install a Tv Antenna for Cord Cutting?
Installing a TV antenna for cord cutting is relatively easy. First, you’ll need to find a location to mount the antenna, such as on a rooftop or attic. Then, connect the antenna to your TV and scan for channels. You may need to adjust the direction of the antenna to receive the strongest signal.
Can I Use a Tv Antenna to Watch Live Sports?
Yes, you can use a TV antenna to watch live sports. Many local channels, including NBC, CBS, and Fox, broadcast live sports events. However, keep in mind that not all sports events will be available on local channels, so you may need to supplement your antenna with a streaming service for certain games.
Conclusion
Cord cutting has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people are looking for alternatives to traditional cable or satellite TV packages. One of the most important considerations when cutting the cord is choosing the right TV antenna.
The best TV antennas for cord cutters are those that are multi-directional, have a high gain, and are compatible with a wide range of channels. Some of the top-rated antennas in this category include the Mohu Leaf 50, the AmazonBasics Ultra Thin Indoor TV Antenna, and the Antennas Direct ClearStream Eclipse.
Ultimately, the best TV antenna for cord cutters will depend on the individual’s location, the channels they want to receive, and their budget.