Cutting the cord doesn’t mean sacrificing your favorite local channels. With a quality long-range outdoor TV antenna, you can access a surprising number of free, high-definition broadcasts, from major networks to local independents. The key to a successful setup is selecting the right antenna for your location and signal environment.
Outdoor antennas are typically the most powerful option, often pulling in signals from 60 miles away or more. They are mounted above ground-level obstructions, which can dramatically improve picture quality and channel variety. This roundup highlights eight of the best long-range outdoor antennas to help you make an informed choice for 2025.
Our Top Picks for Long-Range Outdoor TV Antennas
- Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro Paper-Thin Indoor TV Antenna
- GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna, Long Range Smart TV Antenna
- Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V Indoor Outdoor TV Antenna
- Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V Long Range TV Antenna
- Winegard Platinum HD Long Range Outdoor TV Antenna
- Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 Long Range Outdoor Antenna
- RCA ANT751R Outdoor Long Range TV Antenna
- 1byone Amplified HDTV Antenna, Long Range Outdoor
Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro Paper-Thin Indoor TV Antenna
While designed for indoor use, the Mohu Leaf Supreme Pro is a fantastic option for attic installations where a traditional outdoor antenna isn’t feasible. Its ultra-thin, paper-like profile is easy to mount and conceal. The integrated LED signal indicator is a standout feature, illuminating to guide you toward the strongest signal as you adjust its placement in real-time.
This amplified antenna boasts a 65-mile range and multi-directional UHF and Hi-VHF elements, allowing it to pull in signals from various directions. It supports broadcasts up to 4K and 8K UHD where available, making it a future-proof choice. The reversible black or white design can even be painted to match your attic’s interior.
GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna
The GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna is a reliable and popular choice for those seeking a straightforward, long-range solution. It is designed to receive HDTV, VHF, and UHF channels from up to 70 miles away, making it suitable for many suburban and rural areas. Its universal compatibility ensures it works with all brands of TVs and converter boxes.
This antenna is built for durability with a weather-resistant design, ready to handle the elements when mounted outdoors. For a cleaner look, it can also be installed in your attic. The package includes a J-mount and all necessary mounting hardware, which simplifies the installation process considerably.
Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V Indoor Outdoor TV Antenna
The ClearStream 2V from Antennas Direct is a versatile and powerful antenna that performs well both outdoors and in attics. Its double-loop design, combined with a specialized signal reflector, focuses reception to deliver crystal-clear HD channels from over 60 miles away. This multi-directional antenna is particularly effective at pulling in both UHF and Hi-VHF signals.
Installation is flexible thanks to a 20-inch mast and a pivoting base that allows for mounting on various surfaces. It is fully compatible with the latest broadcast standards, including NEXTGEN TV, 4K, and 8K UHD, ensuring your setup remains relevant for years to come. It’s an ideal balance of performance and size for many homes.
Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V Long Range TV Antenna
For those in challenging signal areas, the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V offers a significant boost in performance. This model builds upon the 2V’s design with a larger capture area, allowing it to pull in more signals from a greater distance. Its multi-directional elements are engineered for superior UHF and Hi-VHF reception.
The included proprietary mounting hardware and reflector are designed for a stable and optimized installation. Whether you mount it on a roof or in an attic, the ClearStream 4V is built to maximize your channel count with reliable, high-quality pictures. It’s a robust solution for viewers who need extra range and signal strength.
Winegard Platinum HD Long Range Outdoor TV Antenna
The Winegard Platinum HD is a high-performance antenna known for its exceptional long-range capabilities. It is designed to capture signals from faraway broadcast towers, making it an excellent choice for rural viewers. Its construction is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring year-round reliability.
This antenna is engineered for both VHF and UHF channels, providing comprehensive coverage of the available broadcast spectrum. The precise design helps minimize signal dropout and pixelation, delivering a stable and clear picture. For maximum signal pull in remote locations, the Winegard Platinum is a top-tier contender.
Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 Long Range Outdoor Antenna
The Channel Master EXTREMEtenna 80 lives up to its name with an impressive 80-mile range potential. This antenna is specifically engineered for extreme long-distance reception, targeting viewers who are far from broadcast towers. Its large, multi-element design is optimized to pull in even the weakest signals.
Built with durability in mind, it features a solid construction that can endure strong winds and other outdoor elements. The antenna’s design focuses on maximizing gain for both VHF and UHF bands, which can significantly increase the number of channels you receive. It’s a powerful tool for the most demanding reception scenarios.
RCA ANT751R Outdoor Long Range TV Antenna
The RCA ANT751R is a compact and stylish outdoor antenna that delivers performance beyond its size. Its optimized design provides reliable reception of VHF and UHF signals from a long range, making it a great space-saving option without major compromises on power. The sleek profile is less obtrusive than many larger models.
This antenna comes with all the necessary hardware for a straightforward outdoor or attic installation. It is built to be weather-resistant, ensuring consistent performance through rain and wind. For users seeking a balance of aesthetic appeal, manageable size, and solid long-range performance, the RCA ANT751R is a strong candidate.
1byone Amplified HDTV Antenna, Long Range Outdoor
The 1byone Amplified HDTV Antenna is designed for users who need an extra signal boost to overcome obstacles or extreme distances. Its built-in amplifier strengthens incoming signals, which can help improve picture quality and channel stability in areas with weaker reception. The antenna is built for outdoor durability.
This model supports full HD, 4K, and 8K UHD broadcasts, making it a future-proof addition to your home entertainment system. The package typically includes a long, high-quality coaxial cable and mounting hardware for a complete installation kit. It’s a solid, amplified option for enhancing your over-the-air TV experience.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Long-Range Outdoor TV Antenna
When I started looking for a way to cut the cord, I quickly realized that not all antennas are created equal. For those of us living farther from the broadcast towers, a long-range outdoor TV antenna is the only real way to get a reliable, free signal. But with so many models boasting huge mileage numbers, how do you pick the right one? I have tested my fair share, and here is what I think you should focus on.
First, let’s talk about range. This is the number you will see advertised most prominently. A long-range outdoor TV antenna might claim a 150-mile range, but it is important to understand that this is often an optimistic, “best-case scenario” figure. Real-world performance is affected by hills, trees, buildings, and even weather. I always recommend checking your location on a site like FCC DTV Reception Maps. Enter your address, and it will show you the exact distance and direction to the broadcast towers near you. This is the single most important step before you buy anything.
Next, consider the antenna type. For the longest distances, you are typically looking at a directional or multi-directional design. A directional antenna (like a Yagi) focuses its power in one specific direction to pull in signals from far away. This is great if all your target stations are clustered in one direction from your home. A multi-directional antenna can receive signals from multiple directions without needing to be physically rotated, which is perfect if your local towers are spread out. Some advanced models even come with a motorized rotor you can control from inside your house.
Build quality is another huge factor. Since this thing will be living on your roof or mast, exposed to sun, rain, wind, and snow, it needs to be tough. Look for materials like UV-protected plastics and corrosion-resistant metals. A flimsy antenna will not last a single severe storm. The mounting hardware included is also a clue; a robust mast clamp and sturdy U-bolts are a good sign.
Finally, think about the installation process. Are you comfortable climbing onto your roof and running a coaxial cable into your house? If not, you might need to budget for a professional installer. Also, check if the antenna includes a preamplifier. A preamp is mounted on the mast near the antenna itself and gives the weak signal a boost before it travels down the long cable to your TV, combating signal loss. For very long cable runs or extremely weak signal areas, a preamp is practically mandatory for a clear picture.
FAQ
What is the actual maximum range I can expect from a long-range antenna?
While manufacturers advertise ranges up to 150 miles or more, the practical, reliable limit is usually between 60 and 80 miles. Terrain is the biggest variable. If you have a perfectly flat, clear line of sight to the tower, you might get close to the advertised range. But if there are hills, dense forests, or tall buildings in the way, your effective range will be much shorter. Always use a tool like the FCC map to get a realistic idea of what is possible at your specific location.
Can I use an outdoor antenna indoors?
You can try, but I do not recommend it. Outdoor antennas are designed and tuned for an unobstructed environment. Putting one inside your attic or near a window introduces all sorts of signal-blocking materials—your roof, walls, and even wiring can severely degrade performance. To get the most out of a powerful long-range outdoor TV antenna, it really needs to be mounted in an elevated, clear spot outside your home.
Do I need a special coaxial cable for an outdoor antenna?
Yes, this is a critical detail. You must use a high-quality, 75-ohm coaxial cable that is rated for outdoor use. Look for cable labeled “RG-6”. It has better shielding and is less prone to signal loss over long distances than the older RG-59 type. Using a poor-quality cable can undo all the benefits of your expensive antenna. Also, make sure all outdoor connections are sealed with weatherproof coax tape or silicone to prevent moisture from getting in and ruining the signal.
Why do I need a preamplifier or amplifier?
There are two types of signal boosters, and they serve different purposes. A preamplifier (or preamp) is mounted on the mast right at the antenna. Its job is to boost very weak signals from distant stations before they travel down the long coaxial cable, where they naturally lose strength. An amplifier (or distribution amplifier) is usually installed inside your house, near your TV. It is designed to boost a already-decent signal so you can split it to multiple televisions without degradation. If you are far from the towers, you likely need a preamp.
Will an outdoor antenna attract lightning?
The antenna itself does not attract lightning any more than any other tall, metal object on your roof, like a chimney or vent pipe. However, a lightning strike anywhere nearby can send a powerful surge through the coaxial cable into your house, potentially destroying your TV and other electronics. To protect your equipment, you must install an in-line coaxial lightning arrestor. This device is installed on the cable line between the antenna and your house and provides a path for excess voltage to be safely directed to a ground wire.