When you turn on your radio, and all you hear is distortion it is because the radio is not able to receive signals adequately. It may be because of too much interference that your present antenna is not capable of handling.
A simple solution to this problem is getting a new outdoor FM antenna. Outdoor FM antennas are used mostly by people living far from the broadcasting towers. With its strong signal reception, it is able to provide crystal clear audio.
Without an excellent external FM antenna, you should not expect any good quality audio from your radio. That is why getting an antenna is so important. Also, there are some great antennas in the market, and hence, it is going to be a worthy investment.
If you need to buy an outdoor radio antenna, then this is the place you will get all the information you need. There is a detailed review of the best outdoor FM antennas that are present in the market. Plus, a buying guide will help you find an outstanding FM antenna based on your needs.
Table of Contents
7 Best Outdoor FM Antenna Reviews
1. ViewTV Outdoor Antenna Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna Motorized 360 Degree Rotation Wireless Remote 1080p 4K Ready up to 150 Miles Range with 40 ft coax Cable, Mini Indoor TV Antenna – Best Overall
ViewTV a high-quality viewing experience to the buyers. Their antenna is designed to pick up free digital broadcasts of high resolutions.
This antenna allows you to watch shows in 720p, 1080p, and 1080i, along with HD quality. You can install this antenna easily. The antenna can be used in harsh climatic conditions.
It can pick local broadcasts from channels like ABC, FOX, CBS, and many others. You can also rotate it at an angle of 360 degrees with the remote available.
It is user-friendly and has a light to indicate it. This antenna comes with a coaxial cable that is 40 ft long and provides an impedance of 75 Ohm.
Why is it Unique?
This outdoor antenna works at frequencies of 40 to 300 MHz for VHF and 470 to 890 MHz for UHF. The antenna can support 2 televisions at the same time. It is built using anodized aluminum along with plastic that is durable. This antenna is lightning protected.
Buyer’s Experience
The customers are happy with this antenna from ViewTV. A lot of customers are pleased with the picture quality of the channels. For all the buyers, it was easy to assemble and install the antenna. Plus, it is durable as well.
Best Fit For
It is an ideal choice for people who want their kids to enjoy HD channels. This antenna can be installed in any area irrespective of the weather conditions there. It offers the viewers a good viewing experience.
Pros
Cons
- Dual TV Output- This outdoor TV antenna supports 2 televisions at the same time without the need for a splitter, special...
- High Quality Image and Sound- Enjoy unlimited access to a 4K 1080 P HDTV with our digital tv antenna. Simply install the...
- Weather Resistant Antenna- This digital TV antenna is made from durable plastic and anodized aluminum, making it long...
- High Performance- Our long range outdoor antenna uses VHF 40~300MHz | UHF 470~890MHz and has a 150 mile range. With our...
2. HDTV Antenna – 1byone 360° Omni-Directional Reception Amplified Outdoor TV Antenna Long Range for Indoor, Outdoor, RV, Attic Support 4K 1080P UHF VHF Free HDTV Channels – Best Omni-directional
The antenna allows you to watch your favorite shows in HD quality with no noise disturbances. You can watch shows from channels like ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, and many more. It can increase the signal strength of VHF frequencies.
The antenna comes with a 39 ft coaxial cable that is waterproof and has a 5 ft coaxial cable to connect the antenna to the powerbox.
It has an amplifier that is built inside to receive more receptions with stable signals. To receive more channels, it is recommended to place it near the broadcast towers.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna can receive receptions from an angle of 360 degrees without the need for rotation. The antenna can receive signals from within a distance of 150 from the broadcast towers. It has an anti UV coating along with its waterproof and snowproof design that allows it to last through climate changes.
Buyer’s Experience
This antenna has a lot of satisfied customers across the globe because of its high-class performance. It can be installed easily, plus it offers a good viewing experience. Most of the customers are satisfied with this antenna. Some customers were unhappy with the quality of the materials used.
Best Fit For
This antenna is an ideal choice for anyone who is living in congested living areas. The antenna can be installed anywhere and offers high-quality broadcasting. If you are living in an area with different climatic conditions, this antenna is the perfect fit for you.
Pros
Cons
- ✅ 360 ° Omni-Directional Reception - Receive signal from all directions, no need to rotate, no need the remote...
- ✅ Up To 150+ Miles Range And Watch What You Want - This 150 mile range hdtv antennae enables you to watch local...
- ✅ Enjoy Clear HD Channels - This best quality model can receive free full HD channels like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox and so...
- ✅ Weather Resistant & Durable - Get better signal reliability on windy or rainy day and unti-UV coating and...
3. TV Antenna, Outdoor Digital Amplified HDTV Antenna 150 Miles Range, Without Pole – Best HDTV Antenna
The antenna from Hualu Tek is one of the best ones you can buy in the market. It can receive receptions from a distance of 150 miles. This antenna can be installed outdoors or in the attic for maximum signal strength.
It allows you to watch your favorite shows in 4K, 1080i, 720p, and 1080p. You can watch Live Television for free without paying any additional fee.
This antenna lets you watch shows from ABC, FOX, PBS, and many other channels. It has a super low noise amplifier that ensures that there is no disturbance because of sound. The antenna comes with a coaxial cable that is 33 ft long, and it has a durable design.
To receive more channels, ensure that you place the antenna within 150 miles from the broadcast towers.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna allows you to control two sets of television at the same time without using a splitter. Your family can enjoy 2 channels simultaneously.
The antenna has a motor that rotates at an angle of 360 degrees and has a base made of plastic parts. This cable has a shield consisting of 3 layers to ensure that there are no electromagnetic and radiofrequency disturbances.
Buyer’s Experience
Most of the customers are satisfied with this antenna, and they have recommended it to others as well. They could install the antenna easily after going through the manual. People staying in the rural areas are also happy with the channels available with this antenna.
Best Fit For
Antenna strength can depend on the location and the climatic conditions in an area. This antenna is an ideal choice for people who are living in both rural and suburban areas. The pictures and videos are of 4K quality.
Pros
Cons
- 🚀 UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE: 150 Miles Long Range to receive digital broadcast high-definition TV signals. Enjoy full...
- 📺 DUAL OUTPUT EXCELLENCE: The ultimate solution for rural or suburban areas! Our HD digital antenna supports 2 TVs...
- ☔ WEATHER RESISTANT MASTERY: Built-in Super Low Noise Amplifier with a 360° Rotation feature ensures exceptional...
- ⚡ QUICK ASSEMBLY, EASY INSTALLATION: Our outdoor HD TV antenna comes with a user-friendly manual, guaranteeing a...
4. TV Antenna – Outdoor FM Antenna OMNIDIRECTIONAL – Best Pick
This outdoor antenna from Stellar Labs is one of the best ones you can buy in this price range. It is designed to ensure that you can receive good reception irrespective of where you live. This FM antenna was built to ensure that you enjoy good quality audio with increased signal reception.
This TV antenna is durable in design and is built using good quality materials. It has a good reception even when it is installed in the attic of your house. The antenna can be placed on both flat and curved surfaces.
Why is it unique?
This antenna can be installed on all kinds of surfaces outdoors. It can be installed easily on your pipe or set up in your attic. The antenna can receive signals from all directions without frequently adjusting it. With this antenna, you can receive good quality audio.
Buyers Experience
The buyers are pleased with their purchase. Most of the buyers have given good ratings and reviews about this product. They were happy to find that it is easy to assemble and use this antenna. Plus, it fits your budget perfectly.
Best Fit For
This outdoor antenna can be placed on any surface outdoors. It is designed to receive receptions from all directions. This antenna comes with 2 curved sections which is designed for you to screw it to any surface.
Pros
Cons
- Package Dimensions: 8.89 cms (L) x 21.844 cms (W) x 47.752 cms (H)
- Product Type: Antenna
- Package Quantity: 1
- Country Of Origin: China
5. FM Loop Antenna Outdoor, Attic-Mount, and RV FM Antenna – Best Range Antenna
This antenna is one of the best outdoor FM antennas you can buy. It can be installed in your attic or any outdoor surface easily.
This antenna was designed to offer high-quality tubing along with having integrated balun and hardware to attach.
The antenna can improve both analog and digital signal receptions. If you are looking for an FM antenna at an affordable rate, this is the ideal one for you.
Why is it unique?
This antenna is perfect for both your house as well as your office purposes. It is suitable if you are looking for a permanent antenna. The antenna is made using good quality materials and has a diameter of 21.5 inches. It comes with a 75ohm coaxial cable.
Buyers Experience
Most of the customers are happy with their purchase. They are impressed with the built and features offered by this antenna. The antenna can be assembled and installed easily, making it a pleasant experience for the buyer.
Best Fit For
This FM antenna is a good choice for people who are keen to listen to radios. It gives you a good audio experience. In addition, to its features, the antenna can last for a long time, and it comes at a reasonable price.
Pros
Cons
- Very high quality FM Loop antenna. Designed for installation at your home (outdoors or attic), office or on an RV
- Heavy duty construction features very high quality tubing, stand-offs, integrated balun and attaching hardware
- Easy to assemble in under 3 minutes; Unlike competitors - this model is a larger 21.5" diameter
- Provides great improvements in FM reception of analog and digital signals versus indoor dipole or whip antennas
6. Five Star TV Antenna Indoor/Outdoor Yagi Satellite HD Antenna with up to 200 Mile Range – Attic or Roof Mount TV Antenna, Long Range Digital OTA Antenna for 4K 1080P with Mounting Pole – Best Performance
Five Star TV provides antennas that give you a good viewing experience with their high-quality picture display.
You can watch shows at a resolution of 4K, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. It allows you to watch shows from NBC, ABC, FOX, sitcoms and kids, sports programs as well.
This upgraded antenna is designed specifically to increase the strength of the signal and offer a stable and longer receiving end.
The antenna is built to endure harsh climatic conditions like strong winds and is protected from the lighting.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna from Five Star TV has a performance amplifier that is built inside it to increase the reception of HD signals. The smart chip inside the antenna allows it to pick up both UHF and VHF signals. It can receive receptions within 200 miles from the broadcast towers.
Buyer’s Experience
Most of its buyers are highly satisfied with the product. The best thing is that the antenna can be installed easily and can survive in harsh climates. They are happy with the picture quality of the broadcast.
Best Fit For
This antenna is good for people living within 200 miles of the towers as the number of channels depends on the proximity to towers and the obstructions. This upgraded antenna gives you a good number of channels. If you have kids in your house, it allows them to enjoy cartoons of high quality.
Pros
Cons
- [NEW AND INNOVATION DESIGN] Extended Antenna Length designed for more stable and strong signal reception, longer and...
- [WEATHER PROOF STRONG PERFORMANCE] This Yagi outdoor antenna has updated outdoor performance; Antenna has well built...
- [ENHANCED SIGNAL RECEPTION] This Yagi Antenna has larger VHF and UHF elements than most antennas; This means you will...
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age...
7. ANTOP Outdoor TV Antenna, 360° Omnidirectional HDTV Antenna, Built-in 4G LTE Filter& Smartpass Amplifier, 4K 1080P VHF UHF TV Channels, for Indoor, Outdoor, RV, Attic Use, Support All Older TV’s AT-413B – Best Multi Directional
Antop is one of the best manufacturers of outdoor antennas. This antenna is built to look modern and has a compact design. It can provide a strong signal even when the climatic condition is bad.
You do not need any external tools to install this antenna. The antenna has an anti UV coating along with a waterproof and snowproof design that keeps the antenna safe from harsh weather changes. This antenna can be used throughout the year.
Why is it unique?
This antenna has a better capacity for receiving reception compared to other antennas. The antenna can receive signals from all directions thereby eliminating the need for frequent adjustments.
It has a 4G filter feature that can filter out all 3G and 4G signals from mobile phones, wireless networks, and other devices. You can alternate between long and short-range receptions with the Smart pass Amplifier technology.
Buyers Experience
Most of the customers are satisfied with the compact design of this antenna. They have liked the UV coating of this antenna. It is omnidirectional and thereby can receive signals from all directions.
Best Fit For
This antenna is a perfect choice for people living in places with extreme weather changes throughout the ear. With this antenna, you can receive signals during rains as well. The antenna can block out signals from other devices so that you have a good experience.
Pros
Cons
- 【NEW CONCEPT DESIGN】Modern and upgraded outdoor antenna, the compact size reduces wind load, providing much better...
- 【360°OMNI-DIRECTIONAL RECEPTION】 Receive signal from all directions, no need to rotate, no need the remote control...
- 【UNIQUE TECHNICAL DESIGN】Exclusive Smart pass Amplifier technology allows switch On & Off to get Long & Short Range...
- 【SAVE ON INSTALLATION FEES】Tools-free and easier installation. Compared with big size traditional Yagi antenna, this...
Factors To Consider While Purchasing Outdoor FM Antenna
One cannot just buy any good antenna that their friend recommended because it is not necessary that what worked for others will also work for you. There are several factors that one needs to consider to know which product is good for them. This is what we are discussing in the buying guide.
1. Range
The range is the distance up to which the antenna can receive a signal. Every outdoor FM radio antenna has its own range. To know which range is suitable for you, you will need to know how far are the broadcasting towers from your house.
Get an antenna that has range-wide enough to pick up signals from the towers. This is one of the most important factors because if you end up buying an antenna with insufficient range, then it will be futile.
2. Location Of Your House
You also have to consider the surroundings of your house. Is the area densely or lightly populated? Are there any frequencies that can cause interference? These are the factors that one should consider.
If you live in an area where interferences are inevitable, then getting an antenna with strong signal reception is important. It should be able to focus on receiving signals from direction rather than dividing its reception in a wide area.
3. Durability
Durability is one thing you cannot compromise in an outdoor antenna. An outdoor antenna is going to be exposed to all the weather elements such as wind, water, dust, and in some cases, ice. If the antenna is not robust, it will soon get damaged or fall apart, and of course, nobody likes getting on the roof again and again for repairing it.
Thus, it is vital that it is made from high-quality materials. It should be weatherproof and reliable. A robust built with water, wind, and corrosion resistance are must-have virtues in an outdoor FM antenna. Along, with that antennas are at high risk of getting struck with lightning. So, one must get an antenna with proper resistance against lightning and is grounded properly.
4. Installation Process
Installing an antenna outdoors, preferably the roof, is already a lot of work and nobody would want to make it more complicated with an antenna that has a difficult setup procedure. There are some antennas that have a much easier installation process. They come with complete mounting gear and a step-by-step installation guide.
If you are inexperienced, then going for such kind of antenna is recommended. But if you know your way around installing an antenna, then you can get an antenna with the features you want, even if it has a little complex installation process.
5. Design
FM antennas come in a variety of designs. Some popular designs include yagi, loop, dipole, to name a few. The type of design and the size of antenna you would want depends on the location and size of your house. So, it is better to learn about the types of antenna designs and consider their size before purchasing one.
6. Price
The price of antennas varies hugely depending upon their design, range, type of material, and other features, but no matter how big or small your budget is, you must try to get a good value in return. The best way to do so is by comparison.
Comparing different brands which offer almost identical features, the features that you want, will give you an insight about the unit that is worth investing in. Also, the warranty on an antenna can tell you a great deal about the product. If the warranty period is long, then the product must be good.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the reasons for bad FM Radio Reception?
A1. There can be various factors responsible for poor FM Radio Reception which include-
Distance: If you are too far from the radio transmitter, you may not receive a good signal, or if you are too close, it may overpower the radio.
Moving obstacles: FM Radio Reception is also affected due to interference caused by airplanes, electrical equipment, cell towers, or station frequencies.
Stationary obstacles: Radio Reception is also affected by physical objects such as hills, trees, buildings. The home construction materials such as concrete, aluminum siding, metal roof, solar panels interfere with the strength of indoor antennas. The curvature of the Earth also blocks long-distance FM Radio Reception.
Shared antenna: If two or more radios are connected to the same antenna using a splitter, it will affect the signal strength.
Multipath interference: Areas with tall buildings can cause the signal to bounce and reach the antenna at different times, causing noise distortion.
Antenna type: A directional antenna does not receive signals from multiple transmitters, while a multidirectional antenna has more chances of interference.
Q2. What are the ways to fix poor FM Radio Reception?
A2. There are various steps one can try to fix bad Radio Reception.
Remove all the obstacles possible to avoid blocking the signal. The antenna should have a close line-of-sight view of the transmitter.
If you have an indoor antenna, move it close to the window as high as possible to avoid possible blockage of signals by the home construction materials. Also, the signal loses strength if the cable length is too long.
FM Radio stations transmit both mono and stereo signals. Stereo signals offer better sound but are weaker. Switch to mono signals, if possible, depending on the station’s transmission power and distance.
You can also use signal amplifiers to boost signal strength.
You can use a signal attenuator if you are too close to a radio transmitter. The most common attenuator is a small inline unit that is placed between the antenna and radio with a fixed amount of reduced gain.
Q3. How to set up an FM antenna?
A3. The first step is to connect your radio to the antenna. There are different ways to connect depending on the model of the antenna. You might connect the F-connector port into the radio antenna input terminal or wind the cords around the FM terminal.
The second step is to insert one end of the AC Adapter into the FM antenna. Then insert the other end of the adapter into an output port.
The third step is to set the FM radio frequency(98 MHz) to get the best reception.
The fourth step is to set the dial to 88 MHz and determine the location where the signal is the clearest by moving the antenna in your hands. Again change the dial to 108 MHz and look for the location with the best signal strength.
The last step is to place the antenna on a stable, flat surface. Mount the antenna so that it remains stable and put it as high as possible.
Q4. How does FM antenna work?
A4. Basically, there are two types of FM antennas. One is a transmitter, and the other is a receiver. Transmitters are the one that is present on the broadcasting towers. They convert electrical signals into radio signals or radio waves and transmit them in the air. These radio waves travel at the speed of light.
The antennas that we are focusing on are the receiving antennas. These are present in our homes that pick up the transmitted radio waves. This antenna converts the radio waves into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted to the radio. The radio converts these electrical signals to audio, and you are able to enjoy your favorite songs in crystal clear quality.
Conclusion
People often do not think enough when purchasing an outdoor FM antenna because they think that it does not matter that much. This is the reason that they pick any antenna from the market and end up feeling disappointed when the antenna doesn’t meet their expectations.
Well, you do not have to commit the same mistake. Now, you have the list of the best outdoor FM antennas with you and also a buying guide that will find the best antenna based on your needs.
Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API