Rating TOP 7 best antennas for digital television: how to choose, price, reviews

Hi all! The topic of today's review is outdoor digital antennas - a necessary device for those who watch over-the-air TV channels in high quality.

You can even catch DVB-T2 channels using regular street antennas. In some cases, this does not even require additional equipment. However, if you prioritize reception quality, get ready to purchase a digital antenna.

Selecting a suitable model is a rather difficult task, especially for an untrained person. The main criteria for choosing digital antennas include: operating range, the presence of an amplifier and filter, type of design, and the number of TVs. If you have several appliances at home, it is recommended to purchase active-type models. To save you the hassle, we have conducted a market analysis and selected the five best digital TV antennas you can buy in 2021.

TV signal characteristics

Initially, you should determine the frequency range available in a particular region for signal reception.

There are 3 main ranges:

• LOW BAND – 30-50 MHz;
• VHF – 136-174 MHz;
• UHF – 400-512 MHz

The best of these ranges is the last option. All antennas are ready to operate in different frequency ranges; this must be taken into account when choosing.

Another important characteristic is the gain; it is not inferior in importance to the frequency range of operation. All regions require different amplifier parameters; there is no single correct parameter. We just do not recommend choosing antennas with a power of up to 30 dB.

What are they?

1. Crow. The best option that does not require large investments. Broadcasts from 1 to 69 channels in analog or digital (DVB T2) format. If only the latter is of interest, the side whiskers can be unscrewed.
2. Wave channel. Compact, delivering maximum signal amplification. Used at a great distance from the repeater.
3. Polish. Widely popular among viewers. It consists of a mesh and 4 rows of antennae. Many people also call it a grid. This kind of antenna does not always show its best side. A 5 V power supply is sufficient for the amplifier to operate. It can serve as a digital tuner. This solution will eliminate the need to purchase an additional power supply.
4. Zigzag. Broadband, almost never found in stores. They are in demand only among radio amateurs. Despite the uniform frequency response, such devices are not protected from various types of interference.
5. Room. Not suitable for use in the countryside. It can reveal itself only within the city limits. In this case, it doesn’t matter how expensive it will be. If there is no reception in the house, such an antenna will not find it. Only the external situation will change.

Is it worth getting an amplifier?

The amplifier itself is not an expensive device; it is accessible to almost everyone. True, not everyone needs it. Quite often, the antenna receives the signal well even without an amplifier, providing a clear picture. Usually you have to determine the need for an antenna with an amplifier experimentally. It is enough to connect a model with an amplifier to the TV; if the picture quality improves, it makes sense to think about such a purchase. Otherwise, we can save money by buying a simple model.

Antenna for a summer residence with an amplifier - which one to choose

Devices for receiving analog television channels with a built-in amplifier can fail during any thunderstorm due to induced electricity - the first stage of the LNA located directly in the antenna breaks through.

Therefore, it is better to use a passive TV antenna, and allocate a place for the amplifier (separate) in a remote location in the country attic - then it will be possible to make adjustments, and you will not have to climb onto the roof after every thunderstorm to change it. The best antenna for a summer residence is aluminum, it is less corrosive, less weight, and as a result, easier to install

The best antenna for a summer residence with an amplifier is passive. The amplifier should be located separately in the attic.

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- Because the amplifier is located at the bottom, there is no power going to the antenna, which means there is less chance of it failing.

It is better to choose an amplifier with separate adjustments for the MV and UHF ranges. The installation height of the antenna and its maximum distance from the roof iron and lighting wires are of decisive importance.

How to buy the best antenna for digital TV?

There are 4 key characteristics to look for when choosing:

• Antenna capabilities for receiving all-wave signals. This will have a positive effect on the picture quality and the number of received channels;
• Mounting method: internal and external. Typically, indoor antennas have poorer signal reception, but are easier to install;
• Power type: network or battery. Most are powered by the network, but if desired, we can also find a stand-alone antenna;
• Signal amplification level. Usually there is no need to take antennas with the highest gain.

Indoor antennas

LUMAX DA1502A

Cost about 900 rubles. Can be installed both indoors and outdoors. The 28 dB UHF signal amplifier is quite weak and is connected to a USB connector, so it is only suitable for relatively new TVs. The 3-meter cable included will allow you to find the most optimal antenna position in the house.

ADVANTAGES:

• appearance
• robust housing
• long cord
• presence of an amplifier
• the image is clear, all functions are customizable

FLAWS

• not detected

LUMAX DA1502A

HARPER ADVB-2128

The antenna has a beautiful design and is easy to install. Can be used both as an indoor option and outdoor, it has a built-in active amplifier. The average price of the model is 1300-1500 rubles

ADVANTAGES:

• quality materials
• ease of installation
• good reception at long distances from the source
• the signal does not disappear
• Includes everything needed for installation

FLAWS

• no adapter for connecting cable and antenna

HARPER ADVB-2128

Ritmix RTA-100 AV

A small indoor antenna provides reception of digital TV and FM (radio) signals. It also recognizes digital HDTV standards for broadcast television and radio. The cost varies between 600-800 rubles.

ADVANTAGES:

• good build quality
• long cable
• light weight

FLAWS

• According to customer reviews, the signal is poorly received or not received at all

Ritmix RTA-100 AV

When buying an antenna, you need to pay attention to whether the kit includes a good quality cable, mounting bracket and adapters; if these parts are missing, you will have to purchase them additionally.

When choosing an antenna model for digital broadcasting, you must, first of all, take into account the distance from the nearest repeater to the country house; terrain (presence or absence of tall objects) between the tower and the house; climatic features. After this, you can proceed directly to choosing an antenna, the technical characteristics of which will ensure high-quality operation of the device under the given conditions.

Comparison of characteristics

It's time to reduce all antennas to a common denominator and consider their main technical characteristics. The table clearly shows the characteristics of all models, making it easier to choose an antenna for yourself.

How to choose?

1. Indoor or outdoor? For a dacha, only the last type is needed. This is due to the significant remoteness of the site; it is necessary to think about alternatives only if a repeater is located nearby. Outdoor is superior to indoor in all respects. With her the reception is more confident. The only drawback is that its installation will require significant effort and certain experience from the performer.
2. Active or passive? For a dacha, it doesn’t really matter what type of device it is. A classic external antenna is equipped with a cable and a box in which a matching board is installed. Such a device does not have active amplification elements powered by electricity. This is its advantage and disadvantage, since this is often what is missing for a confident reception. A receiver is called active if it is equipped with an amplifier with a power supply.
3. Signal. Digital terrestrial television requires DVB T2 support. Even the cheapest models operating in the DMB range can effectively cope with this task. The level allows you to determine performance indicators in digital format. In order to determine its value, you need to open the corresponding item in the receiver menu. Quality is a parameter that determines the effectiveness of the reception. If the level and quality indicators are too low, it is recommended to change the location of the antenna, or raise it higher. When setting up, it is rotated in different directions to achieve the most acceptable results for viewing. The direction is determined by the location of the repeater. Negative natural conditions affect the received signal. This is especially true for strong winds, snowfall, and heavy rains.
4. Gain. The indicator is measured in decibels. With its help, a weak wave signal is increased. This does not mean that the resulting picture will be of good quality. The higher the ratio, the better.
5. Assembly. Before purchasing, please read the instructions. We must not forget that the signal receiver still needs to be assembled. Machine translation, many errors and inaccuracies serve as a signal that it is better to refuse such a product. In addition, it is necessary to visually inspect the parts for their integrity and assembly quality. If their quality does not inspire confidence, it is better to refrain from purchasing.

The best antennas: budget, with top quality for NTV+ and Tricolor TV

We have identified 3 more separate nominations for the best antennas.

The best budget model is DEXP G-090

It is unlikely that you will be able to find a cheaper antenna. This is a compact black model for indoor use. It has all-wave reception in VHF and UHF.

Price: 300-400 rubles.

DEXP G-090

Antenna with the best signal quality – TV Future Indoor DVB-T2

There may be antennas with even better quality, but they are very expensive. This model is inexpensive, comes with a receiver and provides high picture quality. It has an amplifier for receiving the signal and transmitting it to the TV. The kit includes: fastenings, cable, control panel, tuner (model TVjet RE820HDT2) with antenna.

Price: 2500-2700 rubles.

TV Future Indoor DVB-T2

TOP 2 satellite antennas (dishes)

Tricolor satellite TV set

The dish has a diameter of 55 cm. The delivery set includes the antenna itself, a coaxial cable RG-6U light CADENA almost 17 m long, a circular satellite convector, and a bracket for surface installation. Connects to three satellites, allows you to view about 100 channels. The plate itself is made of powder-coated steel, and its corrosion protection is lower than that of CORAB.

Advantages:

1. Low price.
2. Connecting to three satellites gives access to a large number of channels.

Flaws:

1. The material is poorly protected from corrosion and damage.
2. There is a large logo on the plate, which spoils its appearance.
3. Poor work by the Tricolor TV operator himself.

Having carefully studied user reviews, you can understand that you should not use Tricolor TV. Users complain about frequent outages, poor signal quality in bad weather, and disgusting technical support. Buyers talk about the shutdown with an offer to replace the equipment or exchange it with an additional payment. But there are those who are completely satisfied with their services, but they are in the minority.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

The best outdoor terrestrial television antennas for a country house

For houses and apartments at a great distance from a TV tower, only an outdoor antenna with a good amplifier is suitable, otherwise you will not be able to pick up channels at all or their quality will be unsatisfactory.

REMO BAS-1158-P Orbita-12

A small antenna for houses located near the city. It has a high-quality design, but low amplifier power - 12 dB. At a distance of up to 30 km from the TV tower, the device can receive a stable signal. The recommended distance is 20 km from the television center. The aluminum antenna is good at passive signal reception, is resistant to atmospheric conditions and is notable for its lightweight design. Thanks to it, the device can be placed even on a thin stick or pipe. If you raise the antenna to a sufficient height, it allows the TV to show a clear picture from a distance of 40 km to the multiplex.

pros

• ease of assembly;
• no need for a power supply;
• picks up a signal at a distance of 20 km even from a height of human height;
• not subject to corrosion;
• affordable price.

Minuses

• loose plugs fall out, so water can pour inside;
• no mount for antenna cable;
• supplied in a plastic bag.

REMO BAS-1158-P Orbita-12

Locus Meridian 07AF Turbo

An active aluminum antenna with a powerful 30 dB amplifier is designed for receiving digital signals from long distances. Even people from villages located 50 km from the city note a clear picture without interference. The Turbo version of the device comes with a unique balanced amplifier, which is 3 dB more powerful in comparison with classic analogues.

pros

• affordable price;
• compact size;
• good image even at considerable distances from the TV tower (up to 60 km);
• high-quality execution;
• does not require additional power; the amplifier receives charge via the antenna cable from the TV.

Minuses

• you need a TV that can transmit power via cable, otherwise the amplifier does not work;
• small set.

Locus Meridian 07AF Turbo

Selenga 112F-A

A small and inexpensive antenna with a gain of 29 dB and a built-in amplifier. The active device supports all digital television standards. The antenna is designed to receive a signal at a distance of up to 40 km from the transmitter, but when raised to a significant height, the radius increases. Thanks to the low-noise amplifier, there are practically no interruptions in the signal even in bad weather. It supports receiving power via an antenna cable or separately from a USB injector, which is not included in the kit.

pros

• complete kit required for installation;
• the antenna can receive a signal even from a distance of more than 100 km (situational);
• simple installation;
• high-quality construction;
• there is a guarantee.

Minuses

• It is recommended to order a separate power supply;
• plugs may fall off.

Selenga 112F-A

HARPER ADVB-2440

A fairly expensive outdoor antenna with an unusual housing design, which provides signal reception in a wide frequency range. Comes immediately with a 30 dB amplifier that supports exclusively external power. A useful addition is the ability to adjust the gain strength. With a compact design, the antenna copes well with receiving signals from a distance of 40 km.

pros

• original design;
• easy installation, fastened to the wall with several bolts or screws;
• provides high-quality signal reception in any weather;
• omnidirectional design allows you to avoid adjusting tilts, etc.;
• not damaged by icing in winter.

Minuses

• high price;
• Difficulties in installation on non-standard surfaces.

HARPER ADVB-2440

REMO BAS X11102 MAXI-DX

A good digital antenna for a summer residence, for several reasons:

1. The price is only 1500 rubles, which is inexpensive.
2. Excellent gain of 2 dB. In general, this is sufficient for restricted broadcast areas. In addition, there is a good noise suppressor.
3. "REMO" - undemanding. It is made of durable plastic and stainless steel, so you can safely leave it outside.

However, it works only in the decimeter range, which is not very convenient. However, it can pick up analogue waves passively.

Advantages:

1. A simple and affordable digital TV antenna that will catch an honest 30+ channels in the country.
2. All necessary fasteners are included in the kit.
3. Gives a good picture, even far from the repeater.

Flaws:

1. UHF range only.
2. Reviews say that the quality of the antenna is “floating”.

Results

Today, television must be installed in a private house, apartment or country house. Spending time with him will not be boring, and if desired, a running television channel can be a background for other things.

Since we are talking about digital TV, you need to make sure that there is high-quality equipment, and there is also space where you can point the antenna itself to catch the signal from the TV tower.

By choosing good equipment and antenna location, you can please yourself with the high-quality picture and sound broadcast by the television channel you caught.

Video - Which antenna to choose for digital TV

TV signal: what parameters does it have?

The first thing to note as a criterion is the level. It is responsible for what the TV signal power will be. The signal strength is improved in the following way: you just need to point the antenna in a certain direction and then the signal will become clearer.

Quality is an equally important indicator that you need to work on when setting up an antenna. This indicator is adjusted simultaneously with the signal level.

Important! The procedure for setting up the antenna is as follows: first, the signal level is adjusted (upper band), and then a suitable signal quality is selected (lower band). This is all done by rotating the antenna or installing the equipment in another location. Having configured everything correctly, you will get the channel displayed without errors.

Strong wind and rain - they greatly influence how strong the signal will be. As a rule, in such “non-flying” weather, the signal strength is significantly reduced. Poor signal quality - channels are shown with interference. Trees, hills and various obstacles also prevent the signal from the towers from getting through to the TV antenna.

Important! The antenna installation should take into account the signal reserve in case of bad weather. To do this, they place it higher so that it can catch a signal in case of rain or wind.

Bad weather in the form of strong wind or rain is one of the common causes of signal loss.
To avoid a low signal, you need to not only select a location for the antenna, but also look at the direction of the antenna. Often, not only the antenna itself, but also where it “looks” determines the quality of the signal.

It is necessary to select a specific location for the antenna so that it picks up the signal as clearly as possible

It is important to note how much of an impact a roof made of metal can have on a TV signal. As a rule, such a roof greatly reduces the signal and television becomes worse. In this case, you need to place the antenna away from it.

The cable is, although a secondary, quite important factor. The quality of signal transmission from the antenna to the television depends on its quality. To ensure a clear signal, you need to make sure the following:

• you have not installed the cheapest, low-quality cord;
• you do not use a cable that is more than 5-10 years old;
• no sharp creases;
• the cable is slightly shortened;
• the remaining wire does not need to be twisted into a coil.

Important! Pieces of cable connected by a coaxial connector transmit the signal worse.

Summarize. To ensure high-quality television, you need to do the following:

• take a high-quality antenna;
• place the antenna in a certain place where the signal travels well;
• adjust the signal level and quality;
• connect the antenna to the TV via a good cable.

In a few steps you can ensure the quality of the antenna installation

Conclusion

So, before buying an antenna for a country house, be sure to analyze the technical data of the specific model you have chosen. Evaluate the location of the cottage to the transmitter; from a wide range of this group of products, each buyer will be able to choose an indoor, panel or directional antenna.

It should be remembered that an incorrectly installed terrestrial television antenna will not receive the signal well, so you can contact specialists in this field for help.

Criterias of choice

Choosing such a device for a summer residence is not the easiest, especially if a person has little understanding of the features and subtleties of the models.

You need to know that good signal reception depends on:

• energy gain, that is, the ratio of the power radiated by the antenna to the power density radiated by the transmitter. It is assumed that the greater the energy gain, the better the signal. It is given in units of dBi or dBd (depending on the distance of the antenna from the source without amplification, it should be up to 13 dBi if the distance does not exceed 50 km, and if exceeded by 50 km, higher than 13 dB and, in principle, the more the better);
• antenna amplifier, that is, an element used to amplify the signal transmitted by the antenna in the case of a very large distance from the transmitter; operating frequency range, that is, the waves in which the television antenna transmits the signal. Experts recommend buying broadband antennas that operate in VHF (channels 5 to 12) and UHF.

When buying a device, you need to pay attention to other components of the installation, such as:

• high quality coaxial cable (preferably unplugged);
• corresponding terminals;
• a good quality decoder or a TV with built-in MPEG-4.

Buying a high-quality cable as a set will avoid distorting the entire image, since it complements the quality of signal transmission. When purchasing a cable you need to consider:

• the thickness of the middle core, which should be thick enough;
• outer braid.

Important! Before connecting, you need to check the characteristic impedance, which should be about 75 Ohms.

REMO BAS-1118-DX OMNI

One of the best outdoor receivers from the Russian REMO. Made in a nice white case made of metal and plastic with a high degree of moisture protection.

The gain is 38 dB, which is sufficient for areas remote from the distribution point. One of the best TV antennas for long-distance reception, because... reliable fixation will not allow it to be decorated.

Advantages:

1. Excellent noise filter.
2. Long cable included.
3. Stable amplifier.