Best TV Antennas For RVs

‍Hitting the open road in your RV doesn't mean you have to miss out on your favorite TV shows or sports events. This is why you need the best RV TV antenna.

The seven best TV antennas for RV owners include:

1. Winegard Rayzar Automatic RZ-8535 Antenna
2. Luxtronic UFO Digital HDTV RV Antenna
3. PBD Outdoor RV Antenna
4. King DISH Tailgater Pro Premium Antenna
5. Antier Indoor TV Antenna
6. Majestic RV TV Antenna
7. KING Jack Antenna Directional OA8500

With a suitable TV antenna, you can enjoy crisp, clear reception wherever your travels take you. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right antenna can feel daunting. That's why we've compiled this comprehensive guide to the best TV antennas for RVs in 2023.

‍7 Best TV Antennas for RV: 2023 Buying Guide

Traveling in an RV doesn't mean you must miss out on your favorite television shows. Thanks to modern technology, you can now get a solid TV signal, even when you're on the move in remote areas with a poor connection.

As RV enthusiasts, we know the joy of hitting the open road and exploring new places. For many of us, having a reliable TV signal is essential to the experience. This is why you need the best RV antenna.

So, come along with us as we delve into the world of RV TV antennas and explore our top picks for enhancing your entertainment experience on the road. Below we include some essential buying tips and our top seven RV TV antenna options.

1. Winegard Rayzar Automatic RZ-8535 Antenna

The Winegard Rayzar Automatic RZ-8535 is a reliable choice for RV enthusiasts who want a hassle-free and powerful antenna for the best TV-watching experience. I rank it as the best TV antenna for RV owners.

This antenna is super easy to use and scans digital channels quickly. With a simple press of a button, the antenna scanned 16 quadrants in just 2 minutes and automatically aimed towards channels receiving the strongest signals.

The embedded ultra-low noise amplifier helped ensure top-notch signal quality, while the sleek and weather-resistant dome design protected the antenna from harsh outdoor conditions.

Even though some of us initially found the antenna construction a bit flimsy, it did not impact the performance during our trip. With so much to offer, it’s easy to see why this is the best RV TV antenna.

Pros

• Fully automatic aiming for easy channel scanning
• Dual-band VHF/UHF signal reception with an embedded ultra-low noise amplifier
• Sleek, weather-resistant dome design
• Includes 12V DC wall plate

Cons

• Requires a high mounting position for optimal reception
• Much more expensive than the Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV alternative

2. Luxtronic Long-Rang UFO Digital HDTV RV Antenna

We highly recommend the Luxtronic Antenna for RVs, campers, and caravans for its impressive range and easy installation. Our experience using this antenna has been fantastic, and it’s easily one of the top RV TV antennas.

It provides free HDTV channels for life, saving us from relying on expensive cable companies and making our RV trips even more enjoyable. The antenna's 360-degree reception is ideal for mobile use, ensuring a strong signal even as our vehicle changes direction.

Its weather-resistant and UV-stabilized housing ensures durability through various weather conditions. Installing the Luxtronic antenna couldn't have been easier. Its impressive range, easy installation, and durability make it the perfect companion for RV enthusiasts like us.

We simply mounted it on our RV's roof using the provided screws and connected the 20-foot coaxial cable and amplifier. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, saving us any frustrations or complications.

Pros

• Excellent range (30-40 miles) and HD reception
• Omnidirectional, perfect for mobile use
• Easy installation and durable
• Low-noise amplifier guarantees minimal noise interference

Cons

• It may require a digital converter box for HD-ready TVs

3. PBD Outdoor RV Antenna

The PBD RV Antenna is a solid choice for those who want an affordable, compact, and easy-to-use solution for their TV needs on the road.  It was extremely easy to set up, and we appreciated that it didn't take up too much space in our RV.

The antenna offers a 50-mile range so that we can pick up various channels, including local news, weather, and sports programs. However, we did notice that the reception could be inconsistent at times, especially when the weather was less than ideal.

One drawback we noticed is that the antenna's construction feels a bit flimsy, so it might not hold up in extreme weather conditions or after long-term use. We recommend placing it in a sheltered area or indoors to prolong its lifespan and effectiveness.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Compact design for an easier installation
• Amazing range with 50 miles of coverage
• Easy to connect to local channels with HD signals

Cons

• Some users reported inconsistent reception

4. King DISH Tailgater Pro Premium Satellite TV Antenna

The KING DTP4950 DISH Tailgater Pro Bundle is an excellent choice for RV owners seeking reliable satellite TV access while on the go. I tested this during a camping trip and was impressed with its performance.

This satellite TV antenna is perfect for the active mobile lifestyle, as it is specifically engineered for use on the road and can withstand various weather conditions. It had an amazing range, and installation was easy.

Setting up the Tailgater Pro was a breeze, as the automatic-aiming antenna took the guesswork out of aligning the system. After pointing the satellite dish at the sky, we just followed the on-screen prompts to get it up and running.

This package also includes a DISH Wally receiver, allowing access to DISH subscriptions anywhere in the contiguous US. You can also ask DISH about the amplified antenna package if you want more features.

Pros

• Portable and lightweight design
• Automatic satellite locking and aiming
• Compatible with DISH Pay As You Go HD programming
• Excellent satellite antenna durability
• Includes free channels and dual coaxial outputs

Cons

• Requires additional USB Wi-Fi adapter for wireless connectivity

5. Antier Indoor TV Antenna For RV

We highly recommend the Antier Indoor TV Antenna for its exceptional performance, compatibility, and easy setup. I was impressed by the crystal-clear quality of the channels we received, including major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and many more.

The signal range of up to 400+ miles didn't disappoint, and we were pleased with the advanced technology to minimize interference, ensuring maximum reception. This digital antenna has 450 miles of range too.

The sleek design of the Antier TV antenna is another feature we fell in love with. Its compact size perfectly blends with any home décor. Placing it near our TV or close to the window for better reception made it a convenient and stylish addition to our living room.

Moreover, the setup process was a breeze, taking only a few minutes to plug in, position, and scan for channels. Its exceptional performance, compatibility, sleek design, and easy setup make it a great addition to any RV.

Pros

• Supports 4K Full HD channels
• Crystal-clear quality with long signal range
• Sleek design and easy setup
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Positioning is crucial for improved performance

6. Majestic RV TV Antenna

The Majestic RV TV Antenna is a top-notch antenna that offers RV owners superb reception quality, even in remote locations.

This robust and innovative antenna is explicitly designed to withstand the harsh conditions associated with RV travel, ensuring you get excellent reception wherever your journey takes you.

It provides a 30dB gain, one of the highest in the market, allowing it to pick up both VHF and UHF signals for maximum channel coverage. It was also easy to install on our RV without taking up too much space.

The provided wall plate with an antenna socket and cigarette plug simplified the installation process, and we could start receiving channels in no time.

However, one downside we noticed was the short range of 10 feet, which might limit its use in certain situations. Despite the range constraint, we found the 30dB gain to be highly effective in providing consistent reception, even in fringe areas.

Pros

• High gain at 30dB, offering excellent reception
• Small and compact design at 27cm diameter
• Comes with a wall plate and installation accessories

Cons

• Limited to the range of 10 feet

7. KING Jack Antenna Directional OA8500 HDTV & Satellite TV Antenna

When it comes to reliable, high-performance TV antennas for RVs, the King Jack Antenna OA8500 stands out in its class. It combines a sleek, compact design with advanced technology to provide excellent over-the-air television signal reception.

It utilizes the latest technology to optimize UHF signal reception while the built-in amplifier enhances VHF signals. This results in comprehensive coverage that ensures clear, high-definition TV viewing. It’s genuinely one of the best RV antennas money can buy.

This directional TV antenna provides a wide reception range, which means it can receive signals from broadcasting towers located far away. Plus, it has more channels and an easy-to-use signal finder.

For RVs already fitted with a previous version of the KING Jack or other antennas, it can easily replace those without needing to adjust the RV roof mount. This is one of the most versatile digital TV antennas too.

Pros

• Advanced UHF/VHF signal optimization
• Wide reception range
• Easy installation
• Compact and aerodynamic design
• Built-in signal finder
• Weatherproof construction

Cons

• Directional requires alignment
• Amplifier is not as powerful as some alternatives

How Do RV TV Antennas Work?

RV antennas work by receiving over-the-air signals broadcast by television networks. They operate on similar principles as regular home antennas, but they are designed specifically for mobility and the varying reception conditions experienced on the road.

At the heart of an RV antenna's operation is the ability to catch TV signals broadcast over the air. These signals are typically VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) and are transmitted from broadcasting towers.

Once the TV antenna catches a signal, it often amplifies it to enhance its quality. This is especially important for RVs since they often operate in areas where signal strength can vary. Amplifiers take the original signal and increase its strength for better reception and picture quality.

After the TV antenna catches and amplifies the signal, it feeds it to the television set. Inside the television, the signal is demodulated and converted into audio and video data that your TV can understand and display.

Most RV antennas are either directional or omnidirectional. Directional antennas need to be pointed toward the direction of the broadcasting tower to get the best signal. On the other hand, omnidirectional antennas can receive signals from all directions, so they don't need to be adjusted.

What Is The Range Of An RV Antenna?

The range of an RV antenna varies significantly depending on the model, the quality of the antenna, and other environmental factors.

On average, RV antennas range around 30 to 60 miles for UHF (Ultra High Frequency) signals and 40 to 100 miles for VHF (Very High Frequency) signals.

High-end models can potentially capture signals from up to 150 miles away under ideal conditions, although such long ranges are relatively rare. In general, RV TV antennas can receive signals from as close as 20 miles to as far as 100 miles away.

Can You Use An Indoor TV Antenna In An RV?

While it's possible to use an indoor antenna in an RV, it may not be as effective as a specialized RV antenna. Indoor antennas are designed for stationary use in homes and may not provide optimal signal strength or consistently clear reception during travel.

Indoor antennas might not have the same signal strength or range as outdoor antennas, especially in areas far from broadcasting towers or with many obstructions like hills, trees, or buildings.

While an indoor TV antenna can work in an RV, it might not be the best choice for everyone. Consider your specific needs, where you'll be traveling, and what kind of reception you can expect in those areas before deciding which type of antenna is best for you.

Types Of RV Antennas You Can Use

When you’re on the road in your RV, having a good TV antenna can make all the difference when it comes to catching the big game or keeping up with your favorite shows.

We need to consider the different types to find the best RV TV antennas. Let's take a look at the distinctions.

Stationary vs. Mobile Antennas

• Stationary Antennas: As the name suggests, stationary antennas are designed to be used when the RV is parked. They offer excellent reception but need to be retracted or lowered while driving to prevent damage. Some stationary antennas also need to be manually pointed toward the broadcasting tower for the best reception.
• Mobile Antennas: Mobile antennas are designed for use while the RV is in motion. They typically have an omnidirectional design, meaning they can pick up signals from all directions, eliminating the need to reorient the antenna. However, they might not provide as strong a signal as stationary antennas.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Antennas

• Indoor Antennas: Indoor antennas are compact, easy to install, and don't require any external mounting. They are great for areas with strong signal strength but may not perform well in remote locations or areas with weak signals.
• Outdoor Antennas: These are mounted on the exterior of the RV, often on the roof. They generally have a better reception compared to indoor antennas because they are higher and have a clearer line of sight to the broadcast tower, reducing potential signal interference.

Amplified vs. Non-Amplified Antennas

• Amplified Antennas: Amplified antennas come with a built-in amplifier that boosts the signal strength. They are excellent for areas with weak signals or if the broadcast tower is far away. However, too much amplification can sometimes lead to signal distortion.
• Non-Amplified Antennas: These antennas don't have a signal booster. They are suitable for areas with strong signal strength or when you are close to a broadcasting tower. They tend to be less expensive and simpler to install and use than their amplified counterparts.