Cable subscriptions can be expensive. And it’s not guaranteed that your TV would get good signals every time. Mounting an antenna outdoors can be another option. But since it’s more challenging to install, it might not be for everyone. And signals can be interrupted once it rains or snows.
You could always go with Winegard and be assured that you would be getting one of the best attic antennas on the market. You can enjoy clear HD viewing without monthly subscriptions. And you don’t even have to climb the roof to install an antenna.
We’re going to list our top 10 attic antenna picks so that you can enjoy free HD viewing all day and all night, even if it rains or snows.
In a Hurry? Check Our Top 3 Attic Antenna Picks
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Top Picks for the Best Attic Antennas (A Product Review)
So ready your chips and dips because this will be an uninterrupted Netflix marathon.
Have your bean bags and blankets ready, couch potato! Did I mention that it’s inexpensive too?
1. Winegard Platinum Series HD7694P- Best Outdoor TV Antenna
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Get access to both UHF and VHF signals without the need to purchase additional accessories with the Winegard Platinum antenna. And to get HD views, you can pair it up with streaming devices such as Roku, Chromecast, or Fire TV to get free clear access to many channels. Free HD viewing at a lower cost is indeed possible.
It has a long range of 65 miles, so you can expect quality and crisp, clear images without interference and interruptions.
Features
- 45 ft maximum range
- 4K Ultra HD signals
- Frequency range: 5-230 MHz, 470-700 MHz
- 90 days warranty
Why you should buy this antenna
This is a couch potato’s dream. Free TV programming with crystal clear images. Hook it up with streaming devices for the utmost viewing pleasure.
2. Antennas Direct 8 element- Best Premium
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This premium antenna is one of the most powerful antennas on the market. It’s multidirectional, so it can pull in more HD channels than other brands.
This antenna consists of two angles connected via brackets. The multi-position antennas can target broadcast towers in multiple directions. Thus, you’re getting the most bang for your buck, albeit the more steep price tag comes with better performance. It’s a high-end choice, and it’s worth the extra moolah.
Features
- Lifetime warranty on parts
- Built-in reflector
- 70 plus miles max signal strength
Why you should buy this antenna
It’s a high-performing antenna that’s suitable for rural areas where rods are built thicker. It’s also multipurpose and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
3. Pingbingding- Best Durable Attic Antenna
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This antenna from Pingbingding is durable. It won’t be destroyed by lighting, so you can still enjoy the Netflix marathon whilst it’s raining hard. It’s weather-resistant, so there is no need to worry if the signal will be cut off in the middle of a heavy downpour.
Furthermore, it can receive both VHF and UHF broadcasts. So you get more free channels with HD content. You can expect clear images even if the antenna is installed inside. But for superb clarity, you can mount it outside. And since it’s weather-resistant, you don’t have to be worried about the elements too much.
Features
- 150 miles max range
- 75-ohm impedance
- 45 days money-back guarantee
- One year guarantee
- Full HDTV support
Why you should buy this antenna
It’s a weather-resistant antenna that can receive both UHF and VHF signals.
4. GE PRO- Best Budget Attic Antenna
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If you’re quite tight on the moolah, you can still enjoy free HD viewing with the GE PRO. It has a very affordable price tag deposit being America’s number 1 antenna brand.
This antenna is super easy to install. And it can pull in both UHF and VHF channels, so that’s a sweet deal.
One of the qualms, however, is that the materials and hardware used are not the most durable. But oh well, it has an affordable price tag, so that‘s the trade-off. But it can give you access to local channels without being charged extra.
Features
- UHF and VHF signals
- 4L Ultra HD ready
- 60 miles signal strength
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Comes with Bing bracket and mast
Why you should buy this antenna
It’s an impressive long-range yet affordable antenna. The customer service is also amazing.
5. 1byone Rotating TV Antenna – Best HDTV Only Attic Antenna
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This HDTV antenna is durable and can withstand extreme weather temperatures. So you can still enjoy your favorite TV shows sans the heavy rain. Moreover, it has a remote control for the antenna. So you don’t have to go outside to adjust it. So even if it rains, you can still adjust your antenna needs.
It also rotates 360 degrees, thus eliminating the need for frequent adjustment. The reception is really good, and it works like a champ. You’ll be surprised at how many different channels it can pull in. You might not even know that these channels existed.
It came in neatly packed, and the parts were labeled properly. So it’s easy to install it.
Features
- 360 directional signal
- With remote control
- HDTV signal
- Built-in amplifier
Why you should buy this antenna
It’s a very directional antenna. The subtle change in direction can result in tons of channels it can pull in.
6. ClearStream 4V– Best Attic Antennas for Suburban Areas
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ClearStream 4V receives mostly UHF signals. But if you want access to VHF channels, you can purchase a dipole. This attic TV antenna is versatile and can be used for indoor and outdoor applications.
It’s compact, yet you won’t be disappointed with its performance. If you’re living in areas with lots of heavy foliage, trees, and shrubs, this is a great option. The loop design of the Clear Stream protects against multipath interference. So even if your attic is covered with heavy leaves and foliage, you can still get a clear signal.
The reflector also provides an additional range. Furthermore, it’s a digital antenna that lets you access local channels and much more at no additional cost. Just make sure that your TV sets are 2010 models and above. And they should have tuners to pick up digital too.
Features
- 70 + mile range
- Multi-directional
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Lifetime warranty on parts
- 20-inch mount
- UHF
- 4K ready
Why you should buy this attic TV antenna
If you need a powerful and long-range antenna for suburban and rural areas, this is a great choice.
7. McDuory – Best Clamp-On Attic Antenna
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If you’re looking for an attic antenna that lets you connect two television sets without a splinter, Mcduory fits the bill. You can enjoy simultaneous viewing on 2 TV sets without an additional accessory.
It‘s pretty easy to assemble. It’s also intuitive that you can set it up without a manual. Everything came in neatly packaged, and all the parts are labeled properly.
It can pull in both UHF and FVC signals. And we were impressed at how many HD channels this antenna could pull in.
Features
- 150 miles max range
- Pole and mounts included
- Has an infrared remote control
- 45-day money-back guarantee
Why should you buy this antenna
It’s a clamp antenna that’s very easy to install. And you get great HD channels for free.
8. ANTOP UFO- Best Attic Antennas with Omnidirectional Range
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ANTOP UFO is made of a high-grade material that’s weather-resistant. It’s also one of the most stylish antennas on our list; it looks high-end and sophisticated. The hard plastic casing is also UV resistant. So your antenna is protected from the rain and sun simultaneously.
Also, it comes with 2 coaxial splint cables for free. So you can hook it up on 2 monitors at the same time. It has the best omnidirectional range and can be used in outdoor and RV units.
It can pull in an array of channels with no pixelation whatsoever.
Features
- 65 miles max range
- built-in 4G/LTE Filter
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- 1-year warranty on parts and labor
Why you should buy this antenna
It’s durable and resistant to water, UV rays, and sun. Moreover, it has great reception and can give an array of HD channels.
9. Five Star TV Antenna- Best Value for Money
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Regarding the number of channels that can be pulled in with an attic antenna, this antenna is king. It can pull in both VHF and VHF signals. But what’s more amazing about it is that it has additional VHF reflectors that enable the unit to pull in more or less 200 channels.
Another notable advantage is that the built-in amplifier is low noise. So you can enjoy a quiet reception of clear HD images. It also bears a modern look and simple design.
It’s also pretty easy to install. You don’t need any tools to do so. Tuning is also very easy as it comes with remote control.
Features
- 2019 model
- Built-in amplifier
- LTE filter
- With additional VHF reflectors
- DTV/VHF/UHF Receiver
- 200 miles max signal strength
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Why should you buy this antenna
It can pull in 200 channels, which tops the number of channels from an attic antenna on our list.
10. ClearStream 2 Max- Best Attic Antennas for Rural Areas
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This antenna is versatile and can be installed both indoors and outdoors. This is the second ClearStream antenna that made it to our list. One of the main differences is that the 4 max has a 43-degree pickup from the front and back for the UHF signal while the 2maxhas 70 degrees. But both have the same prowess of the FHV broadcasts.
It can pull in many channels such as NNC, FOX, and CBS. And you get to view them in full HD1080 as long as it’s available in your area
Furthermore, it has a patented loop design that ensures it gathers radio frequency with less interference. The 4 max also has this patented loop design.
Features
- 60 miles max range
- UHF and VHF broadcast
- Lifetime warranty on parts
- Includes all mounting hardware except for the cables
Why you should buy this antenna
Get a ton of free TV channels in full HD 1080.
Why Install an Antenna in Your Attic
There are several good reasons! And here are they
- Keeps it away from nosy neighbors who may want to report you to HOA.
- It’s easier to install one in your attic than outside.
- Easier to adjust in case your antenna doesn’t have any remote. You won’t have to worry about turning it in case of rain or snow.
- More economical
- Easy to maintain. Outward installation can have hefty repair costs.
- More protected from the elements
Cons of Attic Antennas
While there are things to be happy about, there are also some tradeoffs. There are always two sides to the coin. So here are some tradeoffs of an attic antenna.
- If you live in an area where houses are situated near one another, this can be a concern. Your neighbor’s roof might cause interference in the signal.
- Some installations used in your attic may cause signal interference.
- Houses and buildings with ticker walls can block TV signals from coming in.
- Most attics are usually tight and cramped spaces.
Attic Antenna Installation
How to install an antenna attic? We’re going to narrow down the general guidelines. Some steps may also vary according to the brand of the antenna.
1. Prepare all materials and tools needed.
We need the following:
- Antenna mast- this can come in with the package or can be purchased separately. You can also make your own. But make sure that the pipe is metal or made of PVC. But don’t use metals that are too heavy as this can be too much to bear for your walls.
- Ladder- ladders should be made of non-conductive material, preferably fiberglass. Ladders are essential, especially if you have a high place to mount the antenna.
- Base mount- this holds the antenna mast in place. It can either be attached to the floor or the walls.
- Coaxial cable compression fittings- this caps a coaxial cable, and also, you can plug it into device connectors.
- U bolts-more often, two of these come in your purchase already. It also has screws and mounts.
- Extra coaxial cables- some brands already have this in the package. But some are made of flimsy material, so you can replace them with a more durable one.
- Guy wires-guy wires from galvanized steel are preferable. You need this if you’re going to suspend the antenna from the ceiling.
- Carpenter’s level tool-this is crucial if you’re setting up the antenna on a mast. This one ensures that the antenna’s position is vertical; otherwise, it can cause signal blockage.
- Power drill
- Adjustable wrench
- Different types of screwdrivers
2. Measure the dimension
Before installing the antenna, it’s a must to measure the dimension of your attic first. This will help you decide what size antenna to get. And where to mount it.
3. Verify receptions using a TV scan.
4. Find the best spot for the installation. Remember these two factors when looking for the spot to mount your attic antenna.
- There shouldn’t be any obstruction.
- It has to have the most direct and closest path to transmission towers.
5. Fit the antenna into your nominated spot. There are locations that usually work for an attic antenna, and these are the following:
- Suspended from ceiling
- On-wall brackets
- Hanging from a wooden ceiling beam
- Attached to the floor
6. Test the antenna for viable reception. You need to make sure it has a signal before you install it. Or you may also mount it temporarily to check for the channels that it can put in.
7. Mounting the antenna.
Make sure to consider the following when installing the attic antenna.
- If you’re mounting it on the floor, ensure the surface is stable enough.
- Always pad the ladder when mounting the antenna in high places. This would desire safety and stability.
- Mount the antenna first on a mast or base mount. Give it a little shake to ensure that it’s snugly fitted.
- Mount the antenna to a vertical wall. Mounting it to a sloped roof can cause signal interference in the case of snow buildup.
8. Attach the coaxial cable to your TV.
You might need to drill holes in your walls for this one. But make sure that there aren’t any existing wiring systems in the wall that you’re going to drill into.
9. Ensure that there’s at least half a foot distance between your antenna and other wire.
10. It’s time for the test.
If there’s interference, it can be that there is something blocking the antenna from getting a good signal. In areas where houses are built near each other, this is unavoidable. You can make use of an amplifier to deal with the signal blockage. Some brands already have this built-in antenna. But you can buy it separately if otherwise.
Additional Tips on Installing Your Attic Antenna
To prevent electrocution incidents, here are several tips. And these can also help your antenna get the best signal.
- Don’t run cables or wiring through an HVAC vent.
- Don’t place wiring near heating facilities such as chimneys.
- Avoid sharp turns in mounting the cables. Make sure that there is a straight path as much as possible.
- You can also consider grounding your attic antenna to prevent the excessive leak of current, which can lead to shocks.
- Always wipe off the dust to prevent it from accumulating on the attic antenna. A dirty antenna won’t be able to pull in as many channels.
- Check the location of the transmission tower. You’d get more channels if the antenna is mounted near the transmission tower.
- Mount the antenna where people won’t be able to accidentally bump into it. This can cause signal blockage.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Attic Antennas (A Buying Guide)
Here are some factors you should ponder before buying.
1. Size of the antenna
The dimension of the antenna is a big factor. Longer antennas are more capable of having a better signal. But if your space is small, it might not be able to accommodate a long antenna. So you have to get an antenna that perfectly fits the dimensions of your attic.
2. Material
The material of the antenna dictates its durability. A durable antenna will be more resistant to extreme weather; thus, it can last longer.
3. Performance
The performance may be affected by some reasons. If you’re located in rural or suburban areas, heavy foliage and thicker roofs might be a concern. Opt to buy attic antennas that can surpass these blockages.
4. Types of signals
There are often two types of signals that attic antennas can pull ultrahigh-frequency ( UHF) and very high-frequency signals (VHF). Some brands can pull in both, whereas some only have one capability. A single frequency antenna will result in lesser channels. So if you want a smorgasbord of channels, choose an antenna capable of pulling in both UHF and VHF broadcasts.
5. Frequency range
The higher the range always better. This refers to the amount of reception your antenna can receive without interference.
6. Maximum signal strength
Antennas have varying signal strengths. The one with the highest is often better.
FAQs
Will the antenna work in rural areas?
Why should you keep antennas away from metal?
What are omnidirectional antennas?
What is the difference between omnidirectional from multidirectional antennas?
Is it okay to buy a very small antenna for a cramped attic?
Conclusion
With the best attic antennas, you can enjoy free HD viewing. No monthly fees and no extra charges. All you need is to buy the best attic antennas. And we have the cream of the crop on our attic antenna reviews. You’re sure to find one that suits your needs and circumstances.