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Can’t find an antenna that will provide a good signal in your area? Or are you just tired of paying your cable TV bills? For people, who live in remote areas, the task of finding the right antenna becomes even more difficult. But did you know that you can get a good signal without constantly changing the antenna’s position and settings?
Antennas Direct —
8-Element Bowtie
The Highest Signal Quality
All you need to do is use a powerful antenna. In this article, we have selected the top 6 best antennas for rural areas that will allow you to enjoy a large number of your favorite TV channels in the best quality.
So let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of antennas, which are ideal for the countryside.
Comparison table: 6 best TV antennas for rural areas
| Model | |
Antennas Direct - 8-Element Bowtie The Highest Signal Quality | Product Dimensions: 36 x 6 x 48 inches, 10 pounds Range: 70+ Miles Location: Outdoor Style: Multi-Directional Frequency: UHF - Can receive signals from multiple television stations - The ability to rotate both antenna panels in the required direction to get a better signal - Working on relief terrain (or on one that has obstacles) |
Antennas Direct - ClearStream 4  The Best Weather Resistance | Product Dimensions: 9.13 x 28.19 x 20.06 inches, 6.85 pounds Range: 70 Miles Location: Indoor/Outdoor Style: Multi-Directional Frequency: UHF - Provides the highest signal in bad weather - Can receive signals from several directions with a single fixed installation - Has a compact size and attractive design |
Channel Master -EXTREMEtenna The Farthest Signal | Product Dimensions: 41 x 5.5 x 33 inches, 10 pounds Range: 80 Miles Location: Outdoor Style: Multi-directional Frequency: UHF/VHF - Captures the highest quality signal at long distances - Allows to receive more signals thanks to 180-degree reception span - Has a strong and durable design |
PBD - Digital Outdoor The Best Performance On Relief Terrain | Product Dimensions: 17.5 x 12.3 x 4.1 inches, 7.04 pounds Range: 150 Miles Location: Outdoor Style: Directional Frequency: UHF/VHF - Provides the highest quality signal on relief terrain - Has a built-in antenna rotation control device in the direction of signal reception or transmission - Makes a weak signal stronger thanks to the built-in amplifier |
Antennas Direct - ClearStream 2V The Most Durable | Product Dimensions: 9.13 x 11.75 x 20.06 inches, 5.1 pounds Range: 60+ Miles Location: Indoor/Outdoor Style: Multi-directional Frequency: UHF/VHF - All parts of this model are made of high-quality and durable materials - Has an attractive circular design and a compact size - Lightweight |
RCA - Outdoor Compact Digital The Best Value For Money | Product Dimensions: 34.5 x 33.1 x 24.2 inches, 2 pounds Range: 70+ Miles Location: Outdoor Style: Single - Directional Frequency: UHF/VHF - Withstands tough outdoor conditions - Has a compact size for installation both outdoors and in the attic - Works great with a long-range, as it allows to intensely focus the signal at a specific location |
Why trust us
We strive to provide the reader with useful and interesting information that you will not find on any other site.
We studied the TV antenna market, selected the 10 most popular models, and analyzed them, defining the main criteria that the best antennas should meet, and also studied customer reviews. Based on the data obtained, we have created our top 6 so that all our readers can choose a suitable antenna and enjoy its work for a long time.
What to pay attention to when choosing a TV antenna
The following factors are most important when choosing:
- The first factor should be the signal quality. It doesn’t matter where you install the antenna: at home, on the street, or in the attic, the signal must be stable and of high quality. This will help you watch your favorite channels without pixelation and crashes.
The Antennas Direct 8 — Element-Bowtie (review) will allow you to enjoy high-quality and bright images, and get the maximum possible number of available TV channels. We recommend also looking at the PBD — Digital Outdoor (review) because it has a built-in amplifier.
- The next important criterion is product quality. We recommend choosing models whose parts are made of high-quality materials (e.g. aluminum, copper, etc.) to make the antenna last as long as possible.
The Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V (review) has quality construction and details. The manufacturer also provides a lifetime warranty on parts of this antenna model.
Even though the Channel Master — EXTREMEtenna (review) does not have such a guarantee, the strong and durable design of this model will be very pleasing to its owner.
- When installing the antenna outside, its weather resistance is very important. The presence of this factor prevents rapid breakage of the antenna and allows you to watch your favorite shows despite the weather conditions.
The Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4 (review) is the best choice for areas with changeable weather. Its weather resistance will allow you to enjoy a high-quality signal at any time. Our research shows that RCA — Outdoor Compact Digital (review) also has a fairly high rate of weather resistance, but in severe frosts and showers, the signal quality of this model can be unstable.
Additional factors to pay attention to
Based on these criteria, we selected the best models of TV antennas and considered each of them in detail.
A detailed review of each model
Antennas Direct – 8-Element Bowtie — the best signal quality
Antennas Direct —
8-Element Bowtie
The Highest Signal Quality
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions: Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $$$ 4.4⭐ 36 x 6 x 48 inches, 10 pounds 70+ Miles Outdoor Multi-directional UHF Adjustable mounting hardware Lifetime warranty on parts |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | The highest signal quality The highest reception intensity - Works perfectly in a long-distance operation - Ease of installation - Works on relief terrain (or on one that has obstacles) |
Pros
- Has brackets for rotating both antenna panels in the required direction
- The ability to receive signals from multiple television stations
- Excellent signal quality regardless of the terrain relief
- The availability of all-weather mounting hardware
Cons
- Mount and coaxial cable sold separately
Are you looking for a TV antenna that will provide the highest quality signal? Pay attention to the Antennas Direct — 8-Element Bowtie. This model has two separate that can be directed in different directions. This makes it possible to receive a signal even if you live between two TV towers. Also, this model has the highest gain among our top 6 antennas, which is 17.4 dBi. This means that it can send or receive the strongest signal in the specified direction.
In addition, our research shows that this antenna picks up the signal on the relief terrain (or on one that has obstacles) only slightly weaker than the PBD — Digital Outdoor (review).
Another advantage of this antenna is its reliable design, and the manufacturer confirms this with a lifetime warranty. Also, this model can withstand any weather conditions due to the strong and weather-resistant mounting hardware.
Antennas Direct – ClearStream 4 TV Antenna — the best weather resistance
Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4
The best weather resistance
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions: Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $$$ 4.3⭐ 9.13 x 28.19 x 20.06 inches, 6.85 pounds 70 Miles Indoor/Outdoor Multi-directional UHF All-weather mounting hardware Lifetime warranty on parts |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | Receiving a great signal in any weather - High signal quality - High gain - Ease of installation - Works on relief terrain (or on one that has obstacles) |
Pros
- Provides a high-quality signal in any weather
- Receives more signals due to wide beam angle
- Can receive signals from several directions with a single fixed installation
- Has a compact size and attractive design
- Can be installed indoors, outdoors, or in the attic
Cons
- When connecting multiple TVs to this antenna model, the signal quality may deteriorate (this can be easily fixed by installing an amplifier)
- Coaxial cable and mount are sold separately
The Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4 is the best at the weather resistance. With this model of antenna, you will receive a high-quality uninterrupted signal even on snowy, rainy, or windy days. In addition, ClearStream 4 is only slightly larger than the Antennas Direct – ClearStream 2V (review). This means that if you decide to install the antenna at home or in the attic, it will not take up much space. Despite its rather compact size, this antenna has only a slightly lower gain than the Antennas Direct – 8-Element Bowtie (review) and is 12.2 dBi. This means that the antenna has a high reception intensity. Also, this antenna is multi-directional. This means that it can receive signals from several directions without the need to change position.
This TV antenna is ideal for rural areas because it can be installed anywhere: in the attic, indoors, or on the street. Its waterproofness will allow you to install it outdoors, and the compact size will allow finding a place in the house for installation easily. In addition, the design of this antenna looks expensive and luxurious, so it will fit into any interior.
Channel Master – EXTREMEtenna — the farthest signal
Channel Master — EXTREMEtenna
The farthest signal
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions: Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $$$ 4.5⭐ 41 x 5.5 x 33 inches, 10 pounds 80 Miles Outdoor Multi-directional UHF/VHF (2) U-Bolts, integrated boom mount 1-year limited warranty |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | Perfectly captures the farthest signals - High signal quality - Ease of installation |
Pros
- It will catch the signal perfectly, even if the TV towers are far enough away
- Allows to receive more signals thanks to 180-degree reception span
- Has a strong and durable design
- Rooftop, eave, or wall mountable
Cons
- Signal quality may deteriorate in bad weather conditions
- Mast, amplifier, and coaxial cable are not included
We mentioned the high-quality signal in the Antennas Direct — 8-Element Bowtie (review). But if you live far from TV stations, you should consider the Channel Master — EXTREMEtenna. The miles range of this antenna allows you to receive the best signal, and the 180-degree reception range provides the maximum number of available TV channels. Also, this model is made of high-quality aluminum and plastic, which is protected from ultraviolet rays.
The compact size of this model allows you to install it on the roof, chimney, cornice, wall, attic, balcony, and more. Also, it is lightweight, so it will be easier to install any place indoors or outdoors. In addition, a big plus is that it comes pre-assembled, which significantly speeds up the installation process.
PBD — Digital Outdoor HDTV Antenna — the best performance on relief terrain
PBD — Digital Outdoor
The best performance on relief terrain
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions: Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $ 4.3⭐ 17.5 x 12.3 x 4.1 inches, 7.04 pounds 150 Miles Outdoor Directional UHF/VHF Motor-fixed bolster with 50FT RG6 coaxial cable; remote control; UL adaptor; J-shape mounting Pole; control box; coaxial grounding block 4G LTE filter surge protector 1-year limited warranty |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | The best performance on relief terrain - High signal quality - Works with a long-range - Works in bad weather conditions - Great value for a low price |
Pros
- Great for relief territories
- Has a built-in antenna rotation control device in the direction of signal reception or transmission
- Has a built-in signal amplifier that amplifies or repeats weak signals
- Has a built-in lightning protection system, which allows you to use the antenna even during a thunderstorm
- Сan connect to two TVs at the same time
Cons
- The control unit does not include an antenna position indicator
Do you live in relief terrain, or is your neighbor’s huge tree growing in the direction of the TV tower? If yes, then the PBD — Digital Outdoor is exactly what you need. This antenna has a built-in adapter that makes the signal even more powerful.
Another advantage that will help you is a built-in 360-degree motor rotor. It can easily rotate (orient) the external TV antenna in any direction. This model also has a built-in splitter that allows the connection of the antenna to two TVs at the same time.
PBD – Digital Outdoor is designed for outdoor installation. It is weatherproof and has a lightning protection system. The manufacturer advises installing the antenna as high as possible to get a better signal.
Antennas Direct – ClearStream 2V — the most durable
Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V
The most durable
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions : Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $$$ 4.2⭐ 9.13 x 11.75 x 20.06 inches, 5.1 pounds 60+ Miles Indoor/Outdoor Multi-directional UHF/VHF J-mount; mounting hardware Lifetime warranty on parts |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | The most durable design - High signal quality - Ease of installation |
Pros
- Has a good construction with quality parts
- Has the same power as the antennas, which is 10 times larger than this model
- Сompact and lightweight
- Has a bracket and a swivel mast that allow you to install the antenna almost at any place with a flat surface
Cons
- When installing the antenna indoor, the range may decrease (this can be easily fixed using an amplifier)
- Coaxial cable is sold separately
The Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V is a quality standard among antennas. The antenna has a reliable design, as it consists of both high-quality plastic parts and metal parts. Also, the details of this model are waterproof. This model is adapted for installation both indoors and outdoors. In turn, its compactness and lightness greatly simplify the search for installation space and the installation process itself, however, it does not come pre-assembled, like the Channel Master- EXTREMEtenna (review).
The antenna has the same power as the 10 times larger models, as it uses the patented ClearStream™ Tapered Loop Technology, which allows creating very powerful antennas of small size.
Another advantage of this antenna is the wide beam angle. You will not need to constantly rotate the antenna to get a better signal. It is also worth noting that the manufacturer has created a free Antenna Point application that will help you quickly and easily tune the antenna to receive many quality TV channels.
RCA – Outdoor Compact Digital — the best value for money
RCA — Outdoor Compact Digital
The best value for money
| Price range: Avg review: Product Dimensions : Range: Location: Style: Frequency: Includes: Warranty: | $$ 4.4⭐ 34.5 x 33.1 x 24.2 inches, 2 pounds 70+ Miles Outdoor Single-directional UHF/VHF Mounting pipe and foot; hardware bag; mast; locking mast clamp; mounting hardware; 75-ohm transformer 1-year limited warranty |
| Absolute winner at: Good at: | Ease of installation - High signal quality - Works with a long-range - Works in bad weather conditions |
Pros
- Has a robust design that allows the antenna to be used in almost any condition
- Easily finds the signal with an app
- Using innovative SmartBoost technology, that allows amplifying the right signals for a TV without amplifying the background broadcast noise
- Has a compact size
Cons
- The antenna seems rather flimsy because it is made of aluminum
- Coaxial cable is sold separately
If you want to buy a high-quality antenna with outstanding performance at a very nice price, we recommend that you pay attention to the RCA — Outdoor Compact Digital. By pointing the antenna towards the TV tower, you will receive a powerful and high-quality signal, even if there is interference on the way. Also, a nice bonus is the free RCA Signal Finder app (similar to that proposed by the manufacturer of the Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V (review)) to help you determine the most suitable antenna direction.
The compact and durable design of this antenna allows you to install it in any convenient place. However, we recommend installing it outdoors to get a better signal. Moreover, this model can withstand any weather conditions thanks to its robust construction, while providing an excellent signal.
Myths about TV antennas
- Mile Range
The range of miles indicated in the characteristics of the product is not always true. Factors such as the terrain, the presence of interference, the height at which the antenna is installed also affect the signal range.
Television signals tend to disappear between 70 to 100 miles over the horizon due to the curvature of the earth. So if you live in a relief area, or the TV towers are too far away from you, we recommend choosing an outdoor TV antenna and installing it as high as possible.
- 4K/HD Reception
Almost every antenna manufacturer claims that its model accepts 4K, 8K, and HD. High-definition broadcasting does not depend on the antenna but on the signal strength and the TV. Each antenna with a high-quality signal allows you to view a digital station in any format.
- Clear pictures
There are no antennas that can provide a clearer image and better sound. Instead, there are antennas that better capture the signal, which, in turn, allows you to watch your favorite TV shows in the highest quality.
Accessories to get the most out of your TV antenna
Some things will help you enjoy your antenna even more. The following are the best accessories for TV antennas:
Amplifier
The amplifier allows you to get a constant high-quality signal. It repeats or amplifies a weak signal to make it clearer.
Winegard – LNA-200 Boost XT
– Maximum Gain (Typical): 18dB
– Low-noise
– Installs on any outdoor-amplified antenna
– Amplifies VHF and UHF signals
Coaxial Cables
A coaxial cable is required to transmit the signal from the antenna to the TV. Most often they are sold separately from the antenna.
THE CIMPLE CO — RG6
– 15 length options from 3 to 150 feet, which allows you to choose a short cable (for example, to install the antenna in a room where aesthetic appearance is important), or long (to install the antenna in the attic/roof/mast, etc.)
– Highly durable weatherproof and UV-resistant PVC outer jacket
– 10-year warranty
GE — RG6
– 5 cable length options
– Can be used to connect TV antennas in indoor or outdoor applications
– Has the corrosion-resistant connectors for a convenient and reliable screw-on connection
– Flame-retardant
Rotator
The rotator allows you to rotate the outdoor TV antenna in any direction.
RCA – VH226E
– Has a digital display that shows preset and antenna position
– Weatherproof
Summary
A TV antenna is the best way to get free access to TV channels. Thanks to it, you can enjoy watching your favorite TV shows in the highest quality. In addition, most antennas, unlike cable TV, provide a signal even in very adverse weather conditions, which is especially important for emergency information.
When choosing an antenna, we recommend that you first pay attention to signal quality, product quality, and weather resistance. Then look at the ease of installation and operation, the size of the product, and the ability to connect multiple TVs.
These criteria we used to analyze our top 6 TV antennas for rural areas, including:
Antennas Direct —
8-Element Bowtie
The Highest Signal Quality
Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4
The best weather resistance
Channel Master — EXTREMEtenna
The farthest signal
PBD — Digital Outdoor
The best performance on relief terrain
Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V
The most durable
RCA — Outdoor Compact Digital
The best value for money
🏠 What are the best indoor TV antennas for rural areas?
Note the following antenna models:
- Antennas Direct — ClearStream 2V— the most durable
- Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4 — has the best weather resistance
You can find more detailed information in our article.
🌃 What are the best outdoor TV antennas for rural areas?
The best antennas for outdoor installation include:
- Antennas Direct — 8-Element Bowtie — has the highest signal quality
- Channel Master — EXTREMEtenna — has the farthest signal
- RCA — Outdoor Compact Digital — has the best value for money
- PBD — Digital Outdoor — has the best performance on relief terrain
You can find more information about these and other models in our article.
🌲 What are the best TV antennas for rural wooded areas?
These models offer the highest quality signal even in wooded or hilly areas:
- PBD — Digital Outdoor — the best performance on relief terrain
- Antennas Direct — 8-Element Bowtie — the highest signal quality
- Antennas Direct — ClearStream 4 — the best weather resistance
These models are described in detail in our article.
🏆 What is the best TV antenna for rural areas in 2021?
The best TV antenna in 2021 is the Antennas Direct — 8-Element Bowtie. It can receive a high-quality signal from several TV towers at once. You can find a detailed review of this model in our article.
