Indoor satellite TV antenna


Top Picks Summary

Not everyone needs a premium satellite HD package with thousands of channels to get the most out of their TV watching experience. The most popular shows on television tend to be on the basic cable channels and sometimes even that is too much for people. Whether TV is less of a passion and more your background noise of choice, or if it's just not in your budget to constantly pay for 50+ channels that you don't even watch, having a good indoor TV antenna is the best way to get the most out of your TV watching without breaking the bank with a monthly payment.

What is an Indoor TV Antenna?

Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor TV antennas don't sit on the roof to get signals. Rather, they sit atop the TV (or any other high area) and do the same work of catching airwaves to bring basic primetime networks to the television screen without a cable subscription.

When saying "indoor TV antenna, " many people probably think of the old "rabbit ears" design that looks like two metal sticks coming out of a base to catch signals, but modern day antennas don't necessarily look like that. They come in more compact, convenient options now, looking like flat boxes that can rest on flat surfaces up high to get the best possible signal. Antennas can receive UHF (ultra high frequency) or VHF (very high frequency) signals, and it's usually best to get one that receives both, but depending on your area you might be able to get by with an antenna that only handles one type.

One of the most important things to remember when buying an antenna like the ones in this article is that performance of any product will depend on your individual location. Some people are closer to transmitters than others, and some people might have certain things blocking signal coming from a certain direction that others don't have. It's a good idea to do research on antennas that have worked well in your area before finalizing your purchase.

Mohu Leaf Antenna

The Mohu Leaf, one of the best rated TV antennas on Consumer Search, is a super convenient model capable of picking up both UHF and VHF signals, though specializing in the former. If the signal is not strong enough, there is an amplified version of the product but be sure to check the quality of the regular version before you go upgrading, as the amplified signal could actually make reception worse for those in areas that don't need the extra power. This antenna is incredibly thin which helps it blend into the background easily and is black on one side and white on the other, giving you multiple options to match the style of the room.

Moreso than many other indoor antenna options, the Mohu Leaf is not terribly dependent on its position in the room to get good signal because of its omnidirectional capabilities. While there is no question about the quality signal the Mohu Leaf provides, some customers have questioned whether this slightly pricier option is the only way to get such consistent results when other models seem to perform just as well. Still, the extra money is worth the promised effectiveness of this product.

Terk HDTVa Antenna

The Terk HDTVa is a great option for anyone that needs an antenna that gets plenty of distance. Another Consumer Search favorite, this antenna can be used from up to 45 miles from transmitters and is recommended for those who live farther away rather than those who live close to them. UHF and VHF signals can be picked up by the Terk HDTVa as long as it is facing in the correct direction.

Reviews claim this antenna is very particular about the way it's facing, meaning if your signals come from different directions, you will have to move this product to the direction you need, but the quality displayed is worth the extra effort. This is the amplified version of this product, so if you still need a directional antenna but have strong signal in your area, feel free to get the Terk HDTVi version of this product.

Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 Antenna

Like the Mohu Leaf, the Winegard FlateWave FL-5000 boasts the convenience of being flat as paper and performing like a gem. Also similar to the Leaf, this antenna is black on one side and white on the other, making it easier to blend it into the aesthetics of the room depending on your needs. Reviews have claimed the best place for this antenna is in the window, and its decal-esque design makes it blend right in as well as fit into whatever place you might need to get the best reception.

The Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 overall does not fall short performance-wise according to numerous reviews. In fact, this product has been compared to the Mohu Leaf as though they were twins, but with some minor differences that depending on the person might not be so minor. The biggest one is the power cable. Rather than a short white cable for the Mohu Leaf, which severely limits the placement options of the antenna or the TV, the Winegard FlatWave has a cable more than double the length at 15ft adding a new level of convenience to the experience of anyone trying to find that signal sweet spot.

The one complaint people seem to have about this brand is that this extremely useful longer cable is black, making it a little harder on the eyes in a white room unlike the Mofu Leaf, whose cable is white. Depending on your needs and aesthetic pleasures, the Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 might be the perfect iteration of super-thin indoor TV antennas for you.

RCA Basic Indoor Antenna

The least expensive option on this list is anything but lacking in quality. The RCA Basic Indoor Antenna comes with VHF and UHF reading capabilities thanks to the dipoles and UHF loop. The dipoles are extendable up to 3 ft, giving you a wider range of space to look for signals. Along with the VHF and UHF signals, the RCA Basic Indoor Antenna also picks up FM signals.

Though this model is bulkier than most on this list, it can still comfortably sit atop or behind a tv, or on a small stand nearby depending where the best positioning is without destroying the flow of your room. It has a 4' cord attached to plug into the TV, giving you a little more leeway with distance and placement. With its low price and undeniable reliability in delivering excellent reception, many users have considered the RCA Basic Indoor Antenna the perfect model to satisfy their TV needs.

Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna

If you are not a fan of sticking something in your window, on your wall, or having something that looks like a traditional antenna, but still want great TV signal, then the Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna might be the right option for you. True to its name, the curve is a flat surface that can be shaped to stand and blend right into your room. If you decide you don't like it in the standing position, you can also lie it flat or stick it in your window; this is a model with many aesthetic options.

The Mohu Curve 30 receives both UHF and DHF channels from up to 30 miles away in full 1080p, just like other members of this list, making it a top contender for performance as well as attractiveness. A 10' coax cord means there is plenty of wiggle room for placement, though it shouldn't have to move to much considering it is another omnidirectional model. Just keep in mind that the Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna will only work with TVs that have a digital tuner (built in or set-top). Still, this model is perfect for those craving excellent service with visual variety.

And those are our recommendations for the best indoor TV antennas. As always, be sure to check out the Wise Bread Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

Top Picks Summary
ANTRobut Amplified TV Antenna - 50 Miles Range High Performance Indoor Digital HDTV Antenna with 13ft Coax Cable and Detachable Amplifier Power Supply - White
Speakers (ANTRobut)
  • FREE FOR LIFE - Never pay your cable or satellite for television again! ANTRobut antenna can pull in all of your local news, weather, sitcoms, kids and sports programs...
  • EASY TO INSTALL AND USE - You can install it to wherever you want. stick in the wall, behind the tv, lay flat on the table, stick on the window, doesn t take up...
  • SLIM AND HIGH PERFORMANCE - Extremely soft design and lightweight.This antenna can picks up signals within 50 miles range. The new technology filters out cellular...
  • 13.2FT LONG CABLE - Makes it easier for you to place it in your house to get the best reception, especially for customers whose televisions are quite far away from...
  • ORDER NOW WITH NO RISK - Buy from ANTRobut for your 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. We ve got you covered! If you aren t happy with the 50 Mile antenna for ANY reason...
  • OPERATION CORRECTLY - 1). Check the antenna is correctly connected to your HDTV or 3rd party HD receiver, then set the mode to Antenna or Air and re-scan for channels...
  • WARM TIPS - Before you buy, please find out channels available in your area via the websites: dtv.gov/map; http://antennaweb.org/Address. If there s anything we...
Indoor HDTV Antenna, Powilling 50 Miles Range Indoor Antenna with Detachable Amplifier Signal Booster for the Highest Performance and 13.12ft Coax Cable
Speakers (Powilling)
  • FREE CHANNELS -- Are you still pay for the cable or satellite fee for televison? Come on! Our indoor TV antenna is a receiver that can get all of your local free...
  • FULL HD - 50 MILE LONG RANGE ACCESS: At first, please visit antennaweb.org or antennapoint.com check how many broadcast towers surrounding you within 50miles...
  • OPERATION CORRECTLY: At first, set up according to the manual, you should make sure you have connected the antenna correctly to HDTV (TV with Digital box). And then...
  • EXTRA LONG 13.12FT COAXIAL CABLE & ULTRA SLIM DESIGN: Powilling is a Manudacturer with best price for you, this super slim like leaf antenna is one of our design...
  • 100% QUALITY GUARANTEE 45 DAY BACK MONEY GUARANTEE - 18 MONTH WARRANTY: Please rest assured that you have made the right purchase, Our indoor TV Antenna is your...
Marathon HDTV Long Distance Amplified Indoor / Outdoor Digital TV Antenna. Long Range High Definition UHF - VHF Reception and Top Rated Whole House Performance by Free Signal TV
Speakers (Free Signal TV)
  • The #1 Whole House Hi-Performance TV Antenna Solution
  • Eliminates the high cost of Cable and Satellite Service
  • Highest Rated Long Range HDTV Antenna on the Market
  • Sleek Advanced Design. Noise:3.5 dB Gain: Powerful 40 dBi
  • No Need for Multiple antennas! Easy One Connection Hook Up
Antenna HDTV, 1PLUS Indoor Antennas 50 Miles Range HDTV Antenna Detachable Amplifier Signal Booster High Signal Capture of 13ft Coaxial Cable- 1 Year Warranty
Speakers (Original factory manufactured.)
  • 1PLUS TOP INDOOR TV ANTENNA: Are you still pay for the cable or satellite fee for televison? Come on! Our indoor TV antenna is a receiver that can get all of your...
  • EXTRA LONG 13FT COAXIAL CABLE & ULTRA SLIM DESIGN: 1PLUS is a Manudacturer with best price for you, this super slim like leaf antenna is one of our design that...
  • FULL HD - 50 MILE LONG RANGE ACCESS: At first, please visit antennaweb.org or antennapoint.com check how many broadcast towers surrounding you within 50miles...
  • OPERATION CORRECTLY: At first, set up according to the manual, you should make sure you have connected the antenna correctly to HDTV (TV with Digital box). And then...
  • 100% QUALITY GUARANTEE 30 DAY BACK MONEY GUARANTEE - 12 MONTH WARRANTY: Please rest assured that you have made the right purchase, Our indoor TV Antenna is your...
Sobetter TV Antenna 50 Mile Range Amplifier Digital HDTV Antenna Indoor with Detachable Amplifier Power Supply, High Performance Antenna for TV with 9.8-Feet Coax Cable - Black
CE (Sobetter INC.)
  • Mini Size and High Performance - Extremely soft design and lightweight. You can either hide it behind the TV, lay flat on table or stick it high on window(it can...
  • 10FT LONG CABLE - Makes it easier for you to place it in your house to get the best reception, especially for customers whose televisions are quite far away from...
  • Never Pay Your Cable or Satellite For Television Again! Sobetter antenna can pull in all of your local news, weather, sitcoms, kids and sports programs absolutely...
  • The signal of the 50miles is mainly available in the range of 35-55miles. Quality of reception may vary by channel depending on distance from broadcast tower, terrain...
  • 100% QUALITY GUARANTEE 30 DAY BACK MONEY GUARANTEE - 12 MONTH WARRANTY: Please rest assured that you have made the right purchase, Our indoor TV Antenna is your...