If you reside in a rural area, you may be familiar with the problem of not getting access to cable TV. This is because rural areas are located far from the broadcasting towers, and hence, it cannot be easy to get uninterrupted and high-quality local channels in your house. Some broadcasters may not even provide their services in the area you live in.
A simple solution to this problem is buying a TV antenna. These antennas are specially designed to have a long-range so that the user can enjoy their favorite local channels on your TV. There are many high-grade antennas to choose from. But not every good TV antenna will be suitable for you.
There are some key factors that come into play when we are looking for an antenna. These key factors are the ones that help a person find a premium TV antenna that is the best for them. We understand that finding a good TV antenna can be time taking; therefore, to assist you, we have put together a list of the best outdoor TV antenna for rural areas that are available in the market.
Table of Contents
7 Best Outdoor TV Antenna For Rural Areas Review
1. Channel Master EXTREMEtenna Long Range Multi-Directional Outdoor TV Antenna – 80 Mile Range – Preassembled – Install on Rooftop or Attic | CM-4228HD – Best Pick
This is a small size antenna that can receive signals from over 80 miles. It is packed with a number of great features and outstanding performance; thus, making it the first in the list of the best tv antennas for rural areas.
With this antenna, watching famous channels at no cost is easier than ever. It is preassembled, and hence, installing it does not require much time and effort. Channel Master has been providing reliable antennas since 1949. Therefore, it is a brand whose products you can buy without any hesitation.
Why is it unique?
This is a multi-directional antenna that can receive broadcasting signals in its range in the span of 180 degrees. The high-performance of this antenna is packed in a small size. It has a gain of 22 dB in UHF and 5 dB in VHF.
Besides this, it is built to be weather-resistant, and hence, you can mount it outdoors without worrying that it may break or fail to work during bad weather. The manufacturers have made sure that only high-grade materials are used in making this product.
Buyer’s experience
This is one of the favorites among the buyers. After using this, many buyers claim that this is the best antenna. From the moment of setting it up, it has provided a brilliant performance.
Now the users can watch all the local channels at a high picture and sound quality without any interruptions. Therefore, it is an antenna that is ideal for rural areas.
Best fit for
Keeping in mind its great features and performance, one can say that this antenna is perfect for everyone who needs an outdoor antenna for rural areas with a range of 80 miles. Also, it makes the process of setting up an antenna hassle-free.
Pros
Cons
- Enjoy the Most Popular HDTV Channels and Your Favorite TV Shows for Free with no Subscription Fees
- Supports Uncompressed 1080i HDTV Broadcasts for the Highest Quality Video and Audio Available (Better than Cable &...
- Multi-Directional (180 Degree Reception Span) with 80+ Mile Range
- Compact Size Allows for Easy Installation on Roof, Chimney, Eave, Wall, Attic, Balcony, etc.
2. Antennas Direct 8-Element Bowtie TV Antenna, 70 Miles Range, Special Bracket to Turn Both Panels, All-Weather Mounting Hardware, Adjustable Mast Clamp, 4K Ready – DB8e – DB8-E – Best Performance
This is a bowtie antenna with a range of 70 miles. The reason behind this antenna is one of the top 7 is because it excels in every aspect. This has great range, durability and delivers superior picture quality.
It is a multi-directional antenna that implies it can face two directions at a time. Generally, bowtie antennas can take up a lot of space, but Antennas Direct designed them in a way to provide two times better performance while being half the size of conventional bowtie antennas.
Why is it unique?
This bowtie antenna provides a gain of 17.4 dBi, which is greater than any other antenna and hence, becoming the most powerful antenna in the world. The weatherproof mounting hardware is provided, which keeps the antenna stable irrespective of the weather conditions.
It is capable of providing HD 1080p picture quality channels for free. To make it ideal for outdoor use, premium quality materials are used in the product so that it survives through all wind, water, and sun.
Buyer’s experience
The numerous responses of the customers indicate that this is undoubtedly one of the best antennas out there. Users were able to view multiple full HD channels. The setup was moderately easy. Also, due to its durable built, it continued to work perfectly even during heavy rain and wind. Therefore, it is an antenna that is highly recommended.
Best fit for
This is a versatile antenna that can be set up indoors and outdoors. Best for rural areas where trees or the roofing material of your own house may be blocking the broadcasting signals.
Pros
Cons
- Country of origin : Taiwan
- Special Brackets Allow The 2 Antenna Panels To Target Broadcast Towers In Multiple Directions
- Great For Outdoor & Attic Use
- Beam angle is 24.5 degree at 470 MHz to 16.3 degree at 698 MHz, range is 70 miles
3. TV Antenna – RCA Outdoor Yagi Satellite HD Antenna with Over 70 Mile Range – Attic or Roof Mount TV Antenna, Long Range Digital OTA Antenna for Clear Reception, 4K 1080P – Most Easy to Setup
This antenna has made the life of many people easier. It has one of the easiest setups. Also, one can mount this antenna wherever they want, whether on the roof, a wall, or inside your attic. Due to its small size, it is simple to find a space for it in your house.
But do not fool yourself with its small size as this can provide amazing picture quality channels on your television. One can watch HD, 4K, and even 8K channels. The range of this antenna is over 70 miles.
Why is it unique?
First, installing this antenna is much easier due to its small size and the clear instructions that are provided. Second, one can download the free RCA signal app through which you can find the high-quality channels and set the antenna in the optimum position to view those channels without any interference.
The antenna provides not only high-quality 4K and 8K picture quality but also great sound quality. Lastly, it uses high-grade materials and is weatherproof.
Buyer’s experience
Most buyers had only positive things to say about this antenna. It has all the features that were advertised and worked without any issue. The users were able to watch 8K and 4k content on their TVs without any additional cost in rural areas.
The build quality of this antenna is also appreciated. All in all, the buyers loved this product and would surely suggest others to buy it.
Best fit for
This antenna is ideal for anyone who wants a small yet powerful antenna that can be set up easily and at the same time provide good performance. If you want 8K picture quality, then this is the antenna you must consider.
Pros
Cons
- Enjoy top-rated HDTV network programming on channels like CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC and more; Your favorite shows for free (no...
- Receives TV broadcasts including 4K, 8K and 1080 HDTV for highest-quality picture and sound - both UHF and VHF stations...
- Withstands tough outdoor conditions with durable construction and materials; Superior reception outdoors or even when...
- Easy installation with pre-assembled design, easy-lock fold-out UHF reflector and snap-lock elements; Includes mast,...
4. Winegard HD8200U Platinum VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna (65 Miles+, Digital, 4K Ultra High-Def Ready) – Best Picture Quality
Having a durable antenna that can deliver HD and 4K picture quality is important. One does not want an antenna that needs to be changed every few years when it fails to work. Winegard understands that and, thus, has created an antenna that can last long.
With high durability, it provides premium picture quality even in rural areas. This can pick up broadcasting signals from more than 65 miles away, and thus, one can enjoy their favorite channels without interruptions. Therefore, it is the choice of many people.
Why is it unique?
The antenna is made from steel to achieve more durability, and then zinc plated to protect it against corrosion which may be caused due to rain and humid surroundings. Consequently, you will not have the need to buy a new antenna for very long.
With this antenna, one gets high gain on both VHF and UHF frequencies. It gives you access to 4K and HD channels without paying the additional cost to your local broadcaster.
Buyer’s experience
As long as performance is concerned, this antenna provided the performance it promised. Users were able to view all the local channels in ultra-high quality.
Setting up this antenna on the roof was tricky but once installed, it was able to withstand tough weather conditions like strong wind or rain. Hence, it is a product worth investing in.
Best fit for
This antenna is suitable for anyone who wants to view 4K or HD channels on their televisions. Moreover, it is for people who do not want the trouble of replacing the antenna every two to three years because this antenna can work for many years.
Pros
Cons
- Long Range Outdoor TV Antenna - The Winegard HD8200U outdoor HD TV antenna receives both Low-VHF High-VHF and UHF...
- 65+ Mile Range - VHF and UHF directional TV antenna delivers 65+ mile range Mount outside for maximum range and clearest...
- Free TV Programming - Free ota programming has more options and more channels than ever before Watch local news and...
- Ultra HD and ATSC 3 0 Ready - Digital antenna capable of receiving 4K Ultra-HD signals where available Be ready for the...
5. McDuory Outdoor 150 Miles Digital Antenna 360 Degree Rotation Amplified HDTV Antenna – Support 2 TVs-UHF/VHF/1080P/4K – 40ft RG6 Cable and Mounting Pole Included – Best Range
This antenna is by McDuory, which is a well-known brand. This antenna has all the features you would expect in a good antenna and also some additional features which are rarely present in other antennas.
First, the range of this antenna is a whopping 150 miles. Not even many other expensive antennas have a range equivalent to this.
Also, this product includes a 40 feet RG6 cable and a mounting pole. The good features of this antenna are accompanied by better performance.
Why is it unique?
One can get access to free local channels in two TVs by using only one of these antennas. It can provide a picture quality of 4K, 1080p, or HDTV. not only does it provide superior picture quality it also has commendable durability.
Best quality materials are used to make this antenna robust. The manufacturers claim that this antenna is rainproof, snowproof, sunproof, and windproof. Furthermore, installing this antenna is easy. It comes with an infrared remote, which can be used to rotate the antenna.
Buyer’s experience
The buyers believe that this antenna is definitely one of the top 7 antennas. It has all the features you require. This antenna is weatherproof, good at receiving strong and weak signals to provide high-quality channels, and is easy to install.
The infrared remote provided makes it easy to rotate and adjust the antenna as per your need. Thus, this is a great choice.
Best fit for
This is suitable for those who are ready to spend a good amount of money to get great features such as a super long-range and remote control.
Pros
Cons
- 150 Miles Long Range and Dual TV Outputs -- HDTV support 720p, 1080p. Working Frequency: VHF 170~230 MHz, UHF 470~860...
- Tools-Free installation -- Snap On elements. Comes with an easy-to-follow user manual so you can install the antenna...
- Infrared Remote Controller -- Built-in 360 degree motor rotor. Built-in Super High Gain and Low Noise Amplifier. Include...
- Weather Resistant -- McDuory antenna is lightning protected, durable design with grounding done. Superior construction...
6. Vansky Outdoor 150 Mile Motorized 360 Degree Rotation OTA Amplified HD TV Antenna, Wireless Remote Control – 32.8′ Coax Cable – Best for Supporting 2 TVs
Setting up a TV antenna sounds like a lot of trouble, and it is with few antennas. But not with this one. This antenna by Vansky is made for outdoor usage in rural areas.
With a long-range of 150 miles, anyone can have premium quality local channels without the need of paying an extra cost for cable TV.
This comes with a wireless remote control which can be used to adjust the direction of the antenna without climbing on the top of your roof as one had to during the old days. Not only it has a lot of features, but it also has a reasonable price.
Why is it unique?
The most impressive feature of this antenna is that installing it is a breeze. With proper instructions, it can be set within minutes. Besides that, one can get access to local channels on two televisions with this antenna without using a splitter.
The antenna can be rotated 360 degrees using the remote control. Lastly, it has the required durability to withstand tough weather conditions. It is lighting protected and has a robust design.
Buyer’s experience
Most buyers are astonished by the superior performance this antenna provides compared to the other antennas within the same price range. This antenna helped the buyers enjoy around 50 channels when earlier they were having none.
Also, setting this antenna up was trouble-free, and the remote made their work of adjusting the direction of the antenna even easier.
Best fit for
If you have two television sets in your house that need an antenna, then this antenna might be ideal for you. Buying this antenna will remove the need for buying two separate antennas.
Pros
Cons
- 250 Miles Long Range & 2 TV Outputs: TV antenna can capture 4K, 720p, 1080p HDTV and 32db high gain reception within...
- Full HD Channels: Digital TV antenna lets you have over-the-air networks in your area and get access to local news,...
- Easy To Install: HDTV antenna comes with an easy-to-use user manual that allows you to easily install the antenna....
- Weather Resistant: TV antenna for smart TV is an ideal solution for any rural or suburban areas. 250 mile TV antenna is...
7. Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V TV Antenna, 60+ Mile Range, UHF/VHF, Multi-directional, Indoor, Attic, Outdoor, Mast w/Pivoting Base/Hardware/ Adjustable Clamp, Sealing Pads, 4K Ready – Best Design
Last but not least is another antenna by Antennas direct. This antenna comes with a range of 60 miles. One can watch full HD 1080p picture quality channels using this antenna. Being a multi-directional antenna, its direction can be adjusted as per your needs.
One can install the free Antenna Point app, which can provide a detailed insight into the numerous broadcasting towers around your house and find an optimal direction for your antenna.
Why is it unique?
With a 60 mile range, this antenna is designed in a way to provide the best performance while being lightweight and compact. These features of this antenna also make it easier to install.
The Antenna Point app helps you find the nearest towers and tell the direction your antenna should be facing to get a view of the channels you want. Also, it is very sturdy. In short, this is a great antenna.
Buyer’s experience
The feature that the buyers loved the most about this antenna is that it is very lightweight. However, it is still very durable. This is easy enough to install anywhere you want, whether indoors or outdoors. Thus, buying this antenna is going to be a great decision.
Best fit for
If you need a compact antenna that picks broadcasting signals in a 60-mile radius, then this is the antenna you should be considering.
Pros
Cons
- Maximum Antenna Range-264000 Ftimpedance-75 Ohmphysical Characteristics-Width-35.5.Connector Type: F-Connectors
- Frequency Band Type-Vhf, Uhfinterfaces/Ports-Connector Type-F-Typephysical Characteristics-Depth-6.50
- Frequency-174 Mhz To 216 Mhz, 470 Mhz To 806 Mhzinterfaces/Ports-Usb-Nophysical Characteristics-Form...
- Antenna Gain-10.4 Dbiphysical Characteristics-Height-20
Factors To Consider While Purchasing A TV Antenna
Just knowing the best TV antennas present in the market is not enough; you need to know which TV antenna is best for you. To find out which TV antenna can actually meet your requirements, you need to know the major features that you should consider in an antenna.
In the buying guide, we have compiled the key features that you should be checking in an antenna to know if you should be buying it or not.
1. Durability
Durability is one of the most important factors of the buying guide. Since you are looking for an outdoor antenna, durability plays a key role here. An outdoor antenna has to work in an open area where it has to face the wind, water, sun, humidity, and even snow.
This is the reason that an antenna should be durable and has adequate weatherproof features. For instance, there are zinc-coated antennas to prevent it from rusting.
Also, there should be measures to protect it from the effects of lightning as well. Depending on the kind of place you live, check whether the antenna you are interested in buying has sufficient durability or not.
2. Range
The range of different antennas is different. Since you are looking for an antenna that can work in rural areas, you need to consider the distance of your house to the broadcasting towers.
Make sure that you get an antenna whose range can reach the broadcasting towers near you so that you can watch uninterrupted and high-quality channels on your television. It is better to buy an antenna that has a range slightly longer than the distance from the towers.
3. Installation
Installation is one such factor that people often overlook and then regret later when they cannot set up the antenna they bought or install it incorrectly. Therefore, it is better to know beforehand the installation process of the antenna you are interested in buying.
If you are someone who does not know a great deal about installing antennas, then it is a smart choice to go for an antenna that has a simple installation process.
Find a product that comes with clear and concise instructions and can be set up within minutes. On the other hand, if you have a little experience in setting up antennas, then the installation process is not something you have to be much concerned about.
But to be on the careful side, do read the installation steps of the antenna to know whether you can set it up on your own or not.
4. Gain
Gain is another significant thing to check in your antenna. With the higher gain, the antenna can even receive signals that are weak.
Therefore, it is important to have a higher gain. With this, the reliability of the signal also increases, which means that the picture quality will not fluctuate, and you will be able to enjoy your favorite channel in high quality.
5. Price
Price is probably the most important feature of the buying guide, irrespective of what you are buying. There are a lot of expensive and inexpensive good antennas in the market.
The expensive ones may have some additional features besides the basic ones that are missing in inexpensive antennas, but both types of antennas do a good job.
If you are ready to buy expensive antennas, then the price is not much of an issue. However, if you have a limited budget, comparing different brands which offer the same features in their antennas might be the best easy to find antenna which provides great value for money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can I make the outdoor signal strength better?
A1. The key factor which affects the signal strength of your antenna is its location. You need to make sure that the antenna is located at the highest possible location at your house. This way, it can be free from any obstacles which may block the signals.
Once you have installed it in the proper location, re-aim the antenna so that it aims in the right direction from where it can receive signals, and you can enjoy your favorite channels in the best quality possible.
Q2. Can I install the antenna in the attic?
A2. As said before, an ideal place for the antenna is the roof. However, attics are a great place. But you have to make sure that the material that is used to make the attic does not block the signals in any way. Attics are good, especially when you have an antenna that may not be durable enough to withstand the bad weather conditions.
Q3. Can my antenna support more than one TV?
A3. For most antennas, supporting two TVs is an easy thing. There are some antennas that are already designed to support two TVs. If you are using such an antenna, then you do not need to buy any extra tools.
However, if you are using a regular antenna, you need to arrange for a splitter, extra coax cable, and a pre-amp. With this equipment, your antenna can effortlessly support two TVs.
Conclusion
If you live in a rural area and want to watch your favorite local channels, then buying an outdoor antenna is going to be a great decision. It is going to be a one-time investment that will save from spending a lot of money from subscriptions to cable providers.
We hope that this article on Best Outdoor TV Antenna For Rural Areas was able to provide you with the details you wanted and helps you find a suitable outdoor antenna for yourself.
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API