Antennas, also known as TV aerials, are your ticket to free over-the-air television. You see, even if you don’t have a smart TV, you can still enjoy high-definition broadcast channels without a cable or satellite subscription. All you need is the right antenna.
I’m no expert, but I’ve been on a quest to unlock the world of free, over-the-air television for my trusty non-smart TV. If you’re in the same boat, or just curious about antennas, you’re in the right place.
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey to discover the best antennas for non-smart TVs.
We’ll explore the types, tips, and even check out some top-notch recommendations.
Best Antennas for Non-Smart TVs
1. Mohu Leaf 30 Indoor HDTV Antenna
- Type: Indoor
- Range: Up to 30 miles
- Features: Paper-thin design, multi-directional, easy installation
- Why We Love It: The Mohu Leaf 30 is a discreet indoor antenna that provides excellent performance for urban dwellers. It’s unobtrusive, easy to install, and offers great signal reception within a 30-mile radius of broadcast towers.
Sale
Mohu Leaf 30 Indoor TV Antenna, 40 Mile-Range, UHF/VHF Multi-directional, Original Paper-Thin, 10 ft. Detachable Coaxial Cable, Reversible, Paintable, 4K-Ready HDTV, MH-110583
- Watch free HDTV for life. Receive TV signals 40-miles from the broadcast towers in full 1080 HD without a cable or satellite subscription including ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Univision, and many more.
- UHF/Hi-VHF multi-directional elements are reversible and designed to blend with your home decor. Hang on your wall or in a window for the best performance. Obstructions unrelated to products performance can affect reception. Every location is unique in terms of local terrain, foliage, and where the antenna is installed may affect your TV signals.
- The included 10 ft. detachable coaxial cable, hooks & loop tabs and push pins allows for easy installation and is perfect for city and suburban homes, dorm rooms, workshops, RVs…take this efficient antenna just about anywhere you go.
- Mohu Leaf 30 antenna leads the cord cutting revolution and continues to be the best performing, most popular flat antenna on the market. Modeled after an innovative, discrete mud flap antenna designed for the U.S. military.
$34.99
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2. ClearStream 2V Indoor/Outdoor HDTV Antenna
- Type: Outdoor (can be used indoors)
- Range: Up to 60 miles
- Features: UHF and VHF reception, multi-directional, durable design
- Why We Love It: The ClearStream 2V is a versatile antenna that can be used both indoors and outdoors. It’s built to withstand various weather conditions and provides reliable signal reception up to 60 miles from broadcast towers.
Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V TV Antenna, 60+ Mile Range, UHF/VHF, Multi-directional, Indoor, Attic, Outdoor, Mast w/Pivoting Base/Hardware, 4K Ready, Black – C2-V-CJM, 18.50in. x 12.30in. x 3.60in.
- Best performance among all Antennas rated in the 60 Mile category [note: location, obstructions, and building materials affect reception].Connector Type: F-Connectors
- Receive free TV from networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CW, PBS, Univision, MeTV and more in FullHD 1080 where available
- Dedicated UHF and VHF multi-directional elements deliver range and reception in less than ideal locations
- Includes clear stream 2V antenna, 20in mount, all-weather mounting hardware, and instructions (coaxial cable sold separately)
- Note: your location, obstructions and building materials will effect reception; try placing your antenna in several locations to find the best reception
$92.03
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3. Winegard Elite Outdoor HDTV Antenna
- Type: Outdoor
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Features: Amplified, 360-degree rotation, 4K Ultra HD ready
- Why We Love It: The Winegard Elite is a high-performance outdoor antenna that’s perfect for rural areas. With its amplified signal and 360-degree rotation, it can capture channels up to 70 miles away, providing crystal-clear quality for your non-smart TV.
Sale
Winegard Elite Outdoor VHF/UHF HDTV Antenna – 70 Mile Range
- Note : Antennas will vary with reception regarding the placement of the antenna, distance from the transmitting towers and ensuring the end user is properly running channel scans periodically, as well as every time the antenna is moved
- 70+ mile range to access from broadcast tower; receives free HD channels including ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Univision and more
- Embedded ultra low noise (1db) digital amplifier for the best antenna performance.Optimized for dual-band VHF/UHF reception
- o Includes antenna with embedded Boost ultra low noise amplifier, inline 5V power inverter, 3′ USB power cable with 110V adapter, and mounting bracket
- Directional, connects to multiple TVs
$149.99
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4. Channel Master SMARTenna+ Indoor TV Antenna
- Type: Indoor
- Range: Up to 35 miles
- Features: Amplified, Signal Meter app compatibility, multi-directional
- Why We Love It: The Channel Master SMARTenna+ is a smart choice for urban and suburban areas. It combines traditional performance with modern features. You can fine-tune its positioning using the Signal Meter app to ensure you get the best possible signal.
TV Antenna – Digital Antenna for TV Support 4K 1080p Antenna TV Digital HD Indoor -TV Antenna for Smart TV and All Older TV’s -Signal Booster 16.4FT Coax HDTV Cable
- FULL HD CHANNELS – Simply plug it in, mount, and scan for channels. It delivers full 4K1080p HD to any digital-ready TV.With amplified tv antenna start to access all of the news, sitcoms, kids and sports programs!-132
- UP TO 250 MILES RANGE – Please hang the indoor TV antenna on a window or wall as high as possible, or install in better position where owns better reception of your house. Disclaimer: Please make sure to switch the amplifier to “short range” in case your house is very close to the broadcast tower (within 35 Miles).-12
- 16ft COAXIAL CABLE – Makes amplified antenna easier for you to place it in your house to get the best reception, especially for customers whose televisions are quite far away from windows. removes signal interference, bringing superior HD reception and powerful signal reliability.-123
- QUSLITY CUSTOMER SERVICE – If you have problems with our HDTV Antenna, just contact us at any time and we will provide a full replacement or refund. Enjoy a high-quality product with confidence.-12
- Note – Please carefully read the manual before installation. Always remember re-scan for channels after moving the antenna.-12
$26.98
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5. RCA ANT751E Outdoor Yagi Antenna
- Type: Outdoor
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Features: Durable Yagi design, reliable signal reception, easy assembly
- Why We Love It: The RCA ANT751E is a high-quality outdoor Yagi antenna that excels in challenging environments. It’s built to withstand the elements and offers a range of up to 70 miles, making it an excellent choice for remote areas.
Sale
RCA Compact Outdoor or Attic Yagi HD TV Antenna with Super Long 75 Mile Range – Digital OTA Antenna for Clear VHF & UHF Reception, NexGenTV ™ Compatible, Supports 4K/8K 1080p TVs
- Enjoy top-rated HDTV network programming on channels like CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC and more; Your favorite shows for free (no more cable bills) with no monthly fee or subscription; Great complement to streaming players and dependable backup source when storms knock out cable or satellite
- Receives TV broadcasts including 4K, 8K and 1080 HDTV for highest-quality picture and sound – both UHF and VHF stations – with up to 70+ mile range from the broadcast towers
- Withstands tough outdoor conditions with durable construction and materials; Superior reception outdoors or even when mounted in the attic
- Easy installation with pre-assembled design, easy-lock fold-out UHF reflector and snap-lock elements; Includes mast, locking mast clamp, mounting hardware and 75-ohm matching transformer (coax cable sold separately)
- The free RCA Signal Finder app is your digital compass that guides you to the most high definition channels and aligns your antenna perfectly
6. 1byone Indoor/Outdoor TV Antenna
- Type: Indoor/Outdoor
- Range: Up to 150 miles
- Features: Amplified, 360-degree rotation, wireless remote control
- Why We Love It: The 1byone antenna is a versatile option that can be used both indoors and outdoors. With its impressive 150-mile range and 360-degree rotation, it can capture signals from multiple directions, making it perfect for those in fringe reception areas.
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1byone Outdoor TV Antenna 360° Omni-Directional Reception Long 100+ Miles Range Enhance VHF&UHF 4K Ready HDTV Antenna with Added Stability for Outdoor/Attic/RV Use – 39ft RG6 Coax Cable
- 🏘️【Long Range Digital Amplified Outdoor TV Antenna】- Exclusive Smart pass Amplifier technology improves better reception than the old version and provide much better signal reliability on windy or rainy days. Please first find out where the local broadcast towers are in your area.
- 📡【360° Omni-Driectional Reception】- Receive UHF/VHF signals from all directions while providing clear 4K pictures, no need to rotate, no need the remote control as traditional huge outdoor antennas. No need to worry about local weather as it’s made of moisture-proof and flame retardant materials. Say goodbye to endless adjustments!
- 📺【One TV Output】- The outdoor HD TV antenna is uniquely designed to support one TV. We recommend that you use only one antenna per television. When you add a splitter that divides the received signal strength between each television which may mean that you may not get all of the channels you would get otherwise.
- 📶【Built-in Pre-Amplifier And 4GLTE Filter】- Allows you to boost signal right at the antenna, and removes interference and channel loss caused by 4G mobiles phone signals, making up for the signal loss from long cable runs and splitters. According to the signal range, the amplifier enlarges suitable multiples to ensure the coverage extension.
- 💳 【Save On Installation Fees】- No tools needed for easy installation. Perfect for home/RV/attic/Marine use, including a 32ft RG6U coaxial cable, which makes it easy to place the amplified HDTV antenna in high-reception areas. Compared with big size traditional antenna, this modern antenna is much easier to install by our included accessories.
$69.99
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7. GE Pro Attic-Mount TV Antenna
- Type: Attic Mount
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Features: Easy attic installation, signal enhancement, durable design
- Why We Love It: The GE Pro Attic-Mount antenna is an excellent choice if you prefer a hidden setup. Installing it in your attic can provide protection from the elements and a clear signal within a 70-mile radius.
GE Attic Mount Digital TV Antenna, Longe Range , Out of Sight Compact Design, Supports 4K 1080P HD Smart TV VHF UHF, Mount Included for Attic or Outdoor, Weather Resistant, 33692
- Cut the cord – Ditch expensive cable and satellite services and continue viewing your favorite local shows in full 1080p high definition at no cost. Enhanced reception and a perfect signal make this 4K Ultra HD-ready antenna the ideal counterpart to streaming your favorite digital content.
- Universal, long-range antenna – Designed for use with all brands of TVs and converter boxes, this antenna provides clear reception of HDTV, VHF and UHF channels up to 60 miles from the broadcast source and can be installed in your attic, staying out of sight while maintaining superior signal strength.
- Easy install – Mounting hardware and instructions are included for easy installation.
- NEXTGEN TV (ATSC 3.0) compatible – Experience this new broadcast standard for over-the-air TV as soon as it’s available in your area and enjoy superior picture and sound, a stronger broadcast signal, premium audio, richer color, faster refresh rates, optional integration with your internet service for additional features and more.
- Trusted brand – GE is America’s #1 antenna brand and is backed by a limited-lifetime replacement pledge and free U.S.-based technical support. Call the experts at 1-800-654-8483 between 7AM-8PM, M-F, Central Time with any questions or issues about your purchase.
$31.99
Buy on Amazon
8. Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V HDTV Antenna
- Type: Outdoor
- Range: Up to 70 miles
- Features: VHF and UHF reception, dedicated reflector, easy assembly
- Why We Love It: The ClearStream 4V offers outstanding VHF and UHF reception. With its dedicated reflector, it minimizes interference and provides reliable signal reception for non-smart TVs in areas up to 70 miles from broadcast towers.
Sale
Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V TV Antenna, 70+ Mile Range, UHF/Vhf, Multi-Directional, Indoor, Attic, Outdoor, Mast W/Pivoting Base/Hardware/Adjustable Clamp/Sealing Pads, 4K Ready, Black – C4-V-CJM
- Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V – TV antenna uses four patented loops to receive HDTV signals 70+ miles away from broadcast towers for free TV channels straight from the networks
- Powerful TV antenna measures 17.4″ H x 27.8″ W x 6″ D; premium durable materials ideal for installation indoors, in an attic, or outdoors in suburban and rural areas
- Compatibility – NEXTGEN TV, 4K, 8K UHD, Full HD 1080p, no Internet required
- Reflectors add forward gain and focus antenna’s power to protect incoming TV signal from interference that causes pixelation or complete loss of picture; 20-inch mast’s pivoting base allows installation on vertical or horizontal surfaces
- Includes ClearStream 4V antenna, 2 reflectors, 20″ mast with pivoting base, all-weather mounting hardware, adjustable mast clamp; Lifetime manufacturer antenna warranty, 90-day accessory warranty
$127.88
Buy on Amazon
Understanding Antenna Types
There are two main types of antennas to consider: indoor and outdoor. Let’s break them down.
Indoor Antennas
- Pros:
- Compact and easy to install.
- Ideal for urban areas with strong signal coverage.
- Generally more affordable.
- Cons:
- Signal strength may vary depending on your location.
- Limited range in remote or hilly areas.
Pro Tip: For an indoor antenna, consider a flat, multidirectional model that can pick up signals from different angles.
Outdoor Antennas
- Pros:
- Excellent signal reception, even in remote areas.
- Greater range and better performance in challenging terrains.
- Cons:
- Typically more expensive.
- Installation can be a bit more complex.
Pro Tip: If you live in a rural or mountainous region, an outdoor antenna is your best bet for stable reception.
Finding the Right Antenna for Your Non smart TV
Now that you know the types, let’s discuss how to choose the perfect antenna for your non-smart TV.
1. Check Your Location
The first thing you need to do is determine your proximity to broadcast towers. Websites like TV Fool or AntennaWeb can help you find the direction and distance of the nearest TV stations.
2. Select the Right Antenna Type
If you’re in an urban area with strong signals, an indoor antenna should suffice. However, for rural or remote areas, an outdoor antenna is likely your best choice.
3. Consider Signal Amplification
In some cases, signal amplifiers can enhance reception. These devices boost weak signals, especially if you’re in a fringe reception area.
4. Mounting and Placement
For indoor antennas, place them as high as possible near a window. Outdoor antennas, on the other hand, should be securely mounted on your roof or a tall mast.
5. Direction Matters
Position your antenna in the direction of the broadcast towers you identified earlier. Many outdoor antennas are directional, meaning they need to be pointed accurately to get the best signal.
Setting Up Your Antenna On non-smart tv
Once you’ve chosen the right antenna, it’s time to set it up. This part is pretty straightforward:
- Connect the antenna to the back of your TV using the coaxial cable. Make sure it’s snug.
- Scan for channels on your TV. This process may vary depending on your TV’s make and model. It’s usually found in the TV settings menu. Once the scan is complete, your non-smart TV will automatically detect available channels.
- Fine-tune your antenna position if necessary. Sometimes a slight adjustment can make a big difference in signal quality.
