So, you’re trying to figure out where you can get a TV antenna that can pick up cable channels, right? Cable TV is a system of connected channels that holds exclusive access to special channels like ESPN, HBO, Showcase, and other “premium” networks. It also can redistribute any digital broadcast transmitted over the air.
This isn’t to say that you won’t be able to acquire “cable-like” over-the-air tv broadcast channels like ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, and many others. You may also have a TV antenna that picks up cable channels with a reasonably affordable HDTV Antenna installed inside or outside. And I’ll teach you how to make this happen here.
Cut Your Cords Today!
We’ve all been there, staring at your cable bill and thinking about how much it costs. This isn’t a new concept; each year, an increasing number of people learn how to cut the cord. Now, let’s get started.
Over-the-air Antennas
We commonly see live television streamed using over-the-air antennas. The main problem was that it wasn’t always trustworthy, and the information was occasionally choppy. If you think back 20 to 30 years, you’ll probably remember slamming the TV or fidgeting with the HD antenna.
While this has left a bad taste in many people’s mouths and spawned the cable corporations we know and despise today, let me be the first to inform you that over-the-air antenna television is back and better than ever.
Live Streaming Services
In 2021 and beyond, the brilliance of cord-cutting is that it’s easier than ever. This is because many online streaming services have picked up on the trend. These services have made it easy for anyone to cut the cord, regardless of age or technological ability.
Should You Choose an Indoor or Outdoor Antenna?
The first decision is whether to use an interior or an outside HD antenna.
While interior digital antennas are fantastic when an outdoor antenna isn’t an option, I always prefer an outdoor antenna when possible.
When Should You Use An Indoor Antenna?
As I previously stated, I always prefer building an outdoor antenna; but I understand that this may not always be an option based on your specific situation, such as:
- If you are staying in a building or condo where outdoor antennas are not permissible.
- An indoor digital antenna will suffice if you live fewer than 50 miles from a broadcast tower.
- For aesthetic reasons, you don’t want an outside antenna on your roof or house.
- An outdoor antenna would be too complex and expensive to install.
Whether any or all of these situations apply to you, an indoor HDTV antenna could be an excellent choice. Indoor antenna technology has gone a long way since the days of “rabbit ears.”
Indoor antennas today have astonishing ranges and are highly fashionable. When the conditions are right, they’re an excellent choice.
Recommended Indoor Antenna For You (Our Top Pick!)
I’ve collected a complete list of the best indoor antennas on this site. If you’re looking for an indoor antenna, I recommend reading this post.
The XFTree HDTV antenna is one of our top performers in terms of price and quality. If you live somewhere where an outside antenna isn’t possible, you won’t be disappointed with this antenna.
Features:
- Indoor antenna with innovative Smart Boost technology for the most delicate signal transmission at a reasonable rate.
- Excellent long-range reception, with a range of 130 miles or more.
- To enhance signal reception, protection against interference with other signals is required.
- Coax cable with an extra-long 17-foot length for added versatility
- To access more channels, flick your finger to the appropriate mode.
- To fit your environment, choose a traditional black and stylish style. (1)
You can enjoy hundreds of hours of HDTV programming with no pixelation when you use this digital HDTV antenna to watch news, sitcoms, kids’ shows, and sports. XFTREE Digital TV Antenna can receive channels such as ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, FOX, Univision, and others at no cost.
We get an excellent indoor antenna with the XFTree HDTV antenna, which also contains a signal amplifier. The signal extends over 130 miles, and thanks to Smart Boost’s superior technology, you obtain a reasonably solid and dependable signal transmission with minimum interference.
It also comes with a 17-foot coaxial wire to position it wherever we want for the best potential reception. You may also charge it via the USB connection on your TV or an electrical socket.
If you require an antenna with a booster, this is a fantastic choice, and it comes with a 24-month warranty. This is one of the best indoor HDTV antennas on the market.
What We Liked:
- It is a low-cost solution that provides an enhanced signal booster.
- The reception range is remarkable since it can receive signals up to 130 miles away.
- Most house decors can be complemented by a slim design in a black color tone.
- Minimal and lightweight
- Installation is simple.
- Coaxial cable with a length of 17 feet for extra installation options
What We Didn’t Like:
- On the long-range option, our tests revealed some noise (interference).
Recommended Outdoor Antenna For You
There are several outdoor antennas on the market, just like interior antennas.
I’ve created a thorough list of this site’s most delicate outdoor antennas. We recommend reading this post if you’re looking for an outdoor antenna.
However, if you don’t have time to read the entire outdoor antenna evaluation, let us quickly recommend one of our top selections.
Features:
- Bowtie design with eight elements for picking up TV signals from up to 70 kilometers away
- Design with flexible brackets—receives signals from towers in various directions.
- 17.4dBi is a significant gain.
- Simple to set up; little in size
- You can avoid multipath interference by using a reflector.
- On parts, there is a lifetime warranty.
It’s advertised as the world’s most powerful 8-Element Bowtie Antenna, capable of picking up HDTV signals from towers up to 70 miles away. Receiving UHF frequency ranges of 470 to 698 MHz, US Channels 14 to 69, is now a breeze.
It is a versatile product that you may install indoors or outdoors, depending on your demands; however, I highly advise putting this antenna outdoors for the best results.
This antenna is an excellent solution for customers who live in rural locations surrounded by tall trees.
Its multi-purpose design allows installation flexibility and ease in places, with transmission towers pointing in diverse directions.
The reflector guarantees that the antenna’s power increases while preventing interference. The antenna has two 28-inch coaxial cables for attaching the antenna’s panels. Antenna Direct offers the best guarantee on the market, and they give a warranty on its components.
What We Liked:
- 70+ mile range and unique brackets to flip both antenna panels
- Free Full HD Channels
- The multi-purpose configuration provides flexibility and ease of installation.
- It includes all-weather mounting hardware and instructions with the DB8e Antenna.
What We Didn’t Like:
- It was a little bit expensive.
When Should You Use An Outdoor Antenna?
If at all necessary, I recommend using an outdoor antenna. An outdoor antenna set at a sufficient height will produce the most outstanding results in nearly all circumstances.
Although indoor antenna technology has progressed, obstacles, such as walls, wood, bricks, metal, and various other materials, will reduce your incoming antenna signal when mounted indoors. (2)
You may check other learning and product guides below. Until our next article!
- How to get better TV reception with an outdoor antenna
- How far can an outdoor antenna reach
- ANTOP Smart Boost Review
References
(1) environment – https://www.britannica.com/science/environment
(2) technology – https://www.britannica.com/technology/technology