How to check antenna signal strength and the top TV antennas

A TV antenna is an alternative to cable and satellite providers that enable you to view free, over-the-air broadcast channels, much like streaming. Many accept ATSC 3.0 digital broadcasts allowing a greater choice of channels, UHF and VHF signal types, and clearer image quality. In order to assist prevent LTE, FM, and other signal types from interfering with your programs, a decent TV antenna will also come with an integrated signal filter chip. For those who reside in more remote areas, distant from broadcast towers, certain versions additionally come with a signal booster to assist increase the antenna’s reception range.

Best television antennas of 2023

1. Gesobyte amplified

Features of Gesobyte amplified: VHF/UHF, Atsc 3.0 signal support; 18-foot coaxial wire; indoor/outdoor; 250-mile reception range;

With a 250-mile reception range, the Gesobyte amplified indoor TV antenna is a fantastic choice for residences in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Anyone who may reside further from broadcast towers will find the in-line signal booster to be a terrific option because it allows you to select between long- and short-range signal reception.

In order to provide you additional options for the ideal positioning, it also comes with an 18-foot coax cable for connecting to your TV. While the built-in signal filter excludes LTE and FM inputs for clearer visuals, the flat, window-mount design also enables the antenna collect signals from the front and rear of the panel for higher signal strength.

2. Vansky VS-TX01

The Vansky VS-TX01 includes: VHF/UHF signal support; 16.5-foot-long coaxial cable; indoor/outdoor; 250-mile reception range

Vansky’s VS-TX01 indoor TV antenna is a great choice if you’re seeking for one. In order to offer a greater selection of local channels, it supports both VHF and UHF transmissions. Additionally, it supports an optional amplifier that may increase the range to 250 miles. For clearer visuals, it also contains an integrated signal filter chip that blocks LTE and FM interference.

You can start viewing local news, sports, and entertainment channels straight out of the box thanks to its incredibly simple setup procedure.

3. GE outdoor antenna

Features of the GE outdoor antenna VHF/UHF and ATSC 3.0 signals are supported. The length of the coaxial wire is n/a. The reception range is 70 miles.

The greatest alternative for over-the-air transmission for rural households is an outside TV antenna since it will increase your chances of receiving signals. The GE outdoor antenna comes with all the mounting gear you need for the ideal installation and is intended to be put on the outside of your home (or in your attic if you have the room).

In order to assist filter out LTE, FM, and other signal types that may interfere with TV signal strength and image quality, the antenna itself also has a cage-like shape. It supports ATSC 3.0 for native 1080p quality for over-the-air broadcasts and improved 4K upscaling for newer TVs, as well as UHF and VHF broadcast channels.

How can I improve TV antenna reception?

Place your indoor antenna as close to a window as you can if you have one.

If you’re using an outside antenna, you should position it such that it won’t be blocked by tall buildings or trees. To ensure that it won’t be obstructed by trees or other residences, put it on your roof or an external wall.

How can I measure the intensity of an antenna signal?

You’ll need a specialized piece of gear known as a Pwr(dBm) measurement instrument in order to accurately gauge the signal strength of your TV antenna. This small device functions similarly to internet speed testing and attaches to the coax cable of your antenna. In order to determine how much LTE and FM interference is mingling with the TV signal and how much power your antenna is using to pick up signals, the gadget “reads” the signal coming from your antenna and measures it.

How can I locate TV masts near me?

When installing your antenna, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the locations of nearby TV towers so that it can be oriented in the appropriate direction. Using the useful DTV tool from the FCC, you may get a map of TV towers in your neighborhood. To discover the optimum site for your antenna, enter your zip code or specific location information to receive an accurate map and signal strength information.