Are you searching for the best TV antenna for rural areas? We’ve put together a list to help you save time and get back to watching your favorite TV shows.
Overview of Specification Comparisons
| RCA Yagi Satellite | Vansky Antenna | Pingbingding Antenna | Channel Master EXTREMEtenna | 1byone Indoor Antenna | 1byone Outdoor Antenna | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $31.56 | $29.99 | $50.99 | $149 | $29.99 | $46.74 |
| Reception Angle | Single-directional | Multi-Directional | Multi-Directional | Multi-Directional | Omnidirectional | Omnidirectional |
| Reception Range | 40 miles | 150 miles | 150 miles | 80 miles | 200 miles | 100 miles |
| Frequency Band | VHF, UHF | VHF, UHF | VHF, UHF | VHF, UHF, FM | VHF, UHF | VHF, UHF |
| Dimensions (inches) | 34.5 x 33.1 x 24.2 | 10 x 6 x 1.6 | 17.5 x 12.3 x 4.1 | 41 x 5.5 x 33 | 19.7 x 9.6 x 0.2 | 12.01 x 11.89 x 5.75 |
| Number of TVs | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Weatherproof | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | N/A Indoor | Yes |
| Includes Required Parts | No coaxial cable | No pole | Yes | No mast or coaxial cable | Yes | Yes |
| Includes Amplifier | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
Why Invest in a TV Antenna
A TV antenna is a group of wires designed to pick up signals broadcasted by television networks. The antenna converts received signals into video and audio signals that the TV can use to display the program you are watching. Most antennas can receive signals from long distances and through different conditions.
What to Look For In a TV Antenna
Before purchasing the best TV antenna that is right for you and where you live rurally, here are specific things you should consider besides your budget.
TV Channels
It is important to find out what channels you can access and how far the broadcast towers are. A reliable tool that lets you enter your zip code for a map of broadcast towers is the DTV Reception Maps by the Federal Communications Commission. You can also use websites such as TV Fool.
Range
If you are in a rural area, the longer the range of the antenna, the better. Make sure you purchase an antenna that reaches the broadcast towers you want. Also, note that obstructions around your location may reduce the max range advertised on the product. You can also purchase amplifiers to increase range or select an antenna with a built-in amplifier.
Frequency
TV channels will broadcast over ultra-high frequency (UHF) and very-high frequency (VHF). An antenna receiving both will give you the most channels. VHF channels are typically numbered 2 to 13, and UHF channels are numbered 14 to 83.
Directional Type
Antennas come in three main types: single-directional, multi-directional that is usually up to 180 degrees, and omnidirectional, which is 360-degrees. An omnidirectional antenna captures signals from all directions, meaning you don’t have to ensure it is faced precisely towards the broadcasting tower you are targeting.
The Best TV Antenna For Rural Areas
Modern TV antennas are an effective way to replace costly cable TV subscriptions, especially in rural areas. Perhaps you live over 60 miles away from the nearest broadcast tower or have obstructions surrounding your location, such as trees, valleys, and hills. These situations impact the quality and reliability of signal reception. However, investing in a long-range quality TV antenna can get you watching your favorite shows and sports channels at low costs easily.
RCA Outdoor Yagi Satellite HD Antenna
- Model Number: ANT751E
- Reception Angle: Single-directional
- Reception Range: Average of 40 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, and HD Signals
- Dimensions: 34.5 x 33.1 x 24.2 inches
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Price: $31.56
This product has an enhanced reception technology that improves image clarity for high definition transmissions. RCA also provides a free Signal Finder app that helps you align your antenna using a digital compass. It can be mounted outdoors or in the attic and is compatible with streaming players such as Roku, Apple TV, and Xbox. The package comes with a mast, locking mast clamp, mounting hardware, and a 75-ohm matching transformer.
Pros:
- Preassembled and easy to install
- Constructed with durable materials for outdoor conditions
- The manufacturer is known to have exceptional customer service
- Affordable
Cons:
- Short cable
- No amplifier
- It does not include a coaxial cable
Vansky Outdoor Motorized Antenna
- Model Number: OD102
- Reception Angle: Multi-Directional
- Reception Range: Up to 150 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, FM, and HD Signals
- Dimensions: 10 x 6 x 1.6 inches
- Weight: 4.34 pounds
- Price: $29.99
This antenna is great for mountainous rural areas and if you have two TVs. It provides high-quality 1080p HD pictures and has a built-in rotor, so you can use a wireless remote to rotate it 360 degrees for the best angle for channels. You can easily assemble it on your roof, attic, or side of the house. It also features a built-in low noise amplifier and a weather-resistant design that is lightning protected.
Pros:
- Picks up high-quality, uncompressed HDTV
- Can sustain two TVs
- It includes an amplifier kit
- Weatherproof material
- It comes with a 32.8ft coaxial cable
- Affordable
Cons:
- Must use remote to rotate for different directions
- Requires assembly
- You must separately purchase the pole for installation
Pingbingding Outdoor Motorized Antenna
- Model Number: WA-2608+POLE
- Reception Angle: Multi-Directional
- Reception Range: Up to 150 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, and HD Signals
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 12.3 x 4.1 inches
- Weight: 7.04 pounds
- Price: $50.99
This antenna allows you to support two TVs without a splitter and provides 1080i and 4K HDTV broadcasts. It has a built-in strong motor rotor so that you can rotate the antenna 360 degrees with a wireless remote. It comes preassembled and is easy to install. This product also features a low noise amplifier and all-weather proof design. It is lightning-protected and works in storms and snow.
Pros:
- Easy snap-on installation
- Can sustain two TVs
- It includes an amplifier
- Weatherproof material
- It comes with a 50ft coaxial cable and mounting pole
Cons:
- Must use remote to rotate for different directions
- Known to wear out after a while
Channel Master EXTREMEtenna Outdoor Antenna
- Model Number: CM-4228HD
- Reception Angle: Multi-Directional (Up to 180˚)
- Reception Range: Up to 80 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, FM, and HD Signals
- Dimensions: 41 x 5.5 x 33 inches
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Price: $149
This product is a highly-rated, multi-directional outdoor TV antenna that allows you to access multiple channels in crystal clear quality. It receives high definition and digital signals as well as supports uncompressed 1080i HDTV broadcasts. The antenna also comes preassembled and has a compact design that makes it easy to install on your roof, chimney, wall, attic, or balcony. The package includes an installation guide and a u-bolt with a nest and integrated boom mount.
Pros:
- Picks up high-quality, uncompressed HDTV
- Quick and easy installation
- Durable and can withstand years of wear and tear
- Weatherproof material that can stand wind speeds up to 100MPH
Cons:
- It does not include a mast or coaxial cable
- Sometimes doesn’t pick up VHF-low channels as well
- No amplifier
- Expensive
1byone Amplified Indoor Antenna
- Model Number: 6-AT03US01
- Reception Angle: Omnidirectional
- Reception Range: Over 200 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, and HD Signals
- Dimensions: 19.7 x 9.6 x 0.2 inches
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
- Price: $29.99
This antenna is compatible with all types of TVs and digital converter boxes and lets you enjoy clear images of HD shows in 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. You can try different mounting locations and methods with the power-grip suction cups, mounting screws, and 3m adhesive stickers. The package also includes a 16.5ft coaxial cable making it easy to place the antenna on a wall, table, or behind your TV. An indoor antenna can be useful if you have some strong stations in your area.
Pros:
- Easy to mount and install
- It comes with an extra-long 16.5ft coaxial cable
- Includes an external amplifier
- 90-day full refund
- Affordable
Cons:
- Must keep the device away from electronic devices to avoid interference
- Must find an indoor location to place
- It may not be as effective against outdoor obstructions
1byone Outdoor Antenna
- ASIN: B089LMG6L4
- Reception Angle: Omnidirectional
- Reception Range: Over 100 miles
- Frequency Band: VHF, UHF, FM, HD, and 4K Signals
- Dimensions: 12.01 x 11.89 x 5.75 inches
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
- Price: $46.74
1byone released this outdoor antenna in 2020 as an upgrade to their previously popular similar models. This antenna is waterproof, flame retardant, and has other weather-resistant features such as anti-UV coating, anti-sun, and anti-snow. Its compact size saves space, allows for easy installation, and makes it suitable for home, RV, attic, or marine use. It also has a built-in amplifier that you can switch on and off to get long and short-range reception.
Pros:
- Easy installation
- It comes with a 39ft coaxial cable with a waterproof kit
- Includes an antenna with a built-in amplifier
- Weatherproof features
- Omnidirectional, so no rotating adjustments needed
Cons:
- Purchase reviews indicate channel availability is limited in certain locations
Conclusion
If you want to save money on hefty TV subscriptions and access high-quality channels from rural areas, investing in a long-range antenna can help. With this guide, you can decide on the best antenna for you based on your budget, location from the nearest broadcasting tower, and the where you want to place the antenna.
