Best RV Antennas: Stay Connected Absolutely Anywhere

Specs

• Size: 47.6 in L x 15.9 in W x 8.5 in H
• Range: 55 miles
• Signals Received: VHF, UHF

Pros

• Lightweight
• Powder-coated metal for durability
• Easy to install
• Smooth hand-crank mechanism

Cons

• Antenna may interfere with some RV AC units
• Does include plastic components

This antenna receives all VHF and UHF programming available within a 55-mile radius. It receives SD and HD local over-the-air television broadcast channels such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and many other subchannels not offered by satellite. It weighs nine pounds, is powder-coated for long-lasting durability, and is intended for roof mount installation.

This antenna is very easy to install, the reception is great, and most channels have a clear picture. It cranks up and rotates easily by hand, and the gears work very smoothly for raising and lowering the device. It also comes as a complete kit with a powered switcher, coaxial, and other parts. The antenna is metal and plastic and has a good, solid feel to it, and the connections and cables are of excellent quality.

One issue is the side of the antenna juts out several inches and may interfere with things such as an air-conditioning unit. Some report that the antenna is constructed with inferior materials compared to prior models. For example, this one features plastic gears that can strip if you're not careful.

Specs

• Size: 15 in L x 15 in W x 4 in H
• Range: 55 to 65 miles
• Signals Received: 4K UHD, UHF, VHF

Pros

• Supports HDTV, 4K, and 1080p
• 360-degree omni-directional reception pattern
• UV-coated and weather-resistant
• Plug-and-play setup

Cons

• Mounting bracket is plastic
• Stability may wane with wear

The Antop UFO Smartpass Amplified HDTV Antenna might be affordable, but it doesn’t skimp on range, features, or convenience. It’s built for pretty much everything, thanks to its weather-resistant finish and UV coating; it’ll survive every kind of weather your RV encounters. Designed for omnidirectional signal reception, you’ll pick up signals from every angle and get VHF and UHF, along with up to 4K UHD picture. With a range of 55 to 65 miles, you should be able to get a nice collection of channels wherever you’re camped out. Plus, this antenna is easy to set up. Once it’s mounted, the plug-and-play system allows you to plug into your TV and get to enjoying the comforts of home.

The only downside to this value-rich, affordably priced RV antenna? Because it’s lower in price, it is made with plastic components that can crack, break, or wear with outdoor exposure. One key part that can weaken your antenna’s stability is the plastic mounting bracket. You may find that you need to reinforce it for a bit of extra protection.

Specs

• Size: 12 in L x 16 in W x 8.9 in H
• Range: Not specified
• Signals Received: UHF, VHF

Pros

• Built-in SureLock signal finder
• Aerodynamic design reduces wind resistance
• Easy antenna pointing
• Upgraded technology for enhanced UHF signal

Cons

• Doesn’t include mounting plate

If you’re searching for a true, strong signal you can rely on, the KING Jack HDTV Directional Antenna & Signal Meter can provide it. The standout feature of this antenna is the built-in King SureLock Digital TV Signal Finder, a bit of technology that simplifies the aiming and adjusting process so you don’t have to struggle to get a clear, ready-to-watch signal. It’s both an antenna and a wall mount power injector so you can take charge from inside your camper. The long-range signal acquisition picks up both VHF and UHF bands, and you can utilize full 360-degree rotation to pick up whatever you’re looking for. It’s also easy to install this RV antenna, and the compact, aerodynamic shape helps reduce drag while giving you plenty of value for its size.

Unfortunately, while this RV antenna’s product description claims to have all hardware included, it doesn’t. It comes without a mounting plate, so you’ll need to purchase one separately before installing.

Specs

• Size: 17 in L x 18.75 in W x 13.5 in H
• Range: 100 percent nationwide coverage
• Signals Received: Satellite

Pros

• Works with displays from 480i to 1080p
• Automatically picks up satellite signal from anywhere
• Built-in security bracket
• Weather-resistant housing

Cons

• Requires a DISH subscription

If you hate leaving your satellite TV at home when you hit the road, you’ll love all that the DISH Tailgater Satellite Antenna offers. This compact antenna sits close to your RV’s roof, and it only picks up satellite signals, making it the perfect companion for those who want to be able to watch satellite TV while camping. It’s for DISH TV, but was created in collaboration with King, a reputable brand in RV antennas. And in this device, you’ll get weather-resistant housing, a built-in security bracket, the ability to support both HD and SD programming, and automatic signal finding. You can connect to just one TV, and there’s no activation fee to get set up.

The only real downside to this RV antenna is it comes with added costs. You’ll need a DISH receiver in order to be able to actually watch satellite TV. Fortunately, there are convenient pay-as-you-go plans meant for RVers, but it’s an extra monthly fee to consider.

Specs

• Size: 14.7 in L x 16.25 in W x 8.4 in H
• Range: Not specified
• Signals Received: 4K UHD, VHF, and UHF

Pros

• Receives a wide range of signals
• Small footprint and lightweight
• Includes all mounting equipment
• No cranking required for use

Cons

• May not produce more channels than traditional antennas
• May require adjustments regularly

Designed especially for RVs, the Winegard RZ-6000 Rayzar z1 RV TV Antenna delivers channels in 4K UHD as well as VHF and UHF signals, so you can watch your favorite shows on the go. It has a small footprint, rotates easily, and seamlessly takes the place of an existing antenna.

This amplified antenna weighs just 2.5 pounds and is 16.25 by 14.7 by 8.4 inches. It features a durable housing that is UV- and weather-resistant. All mounting equipment is included, and you don't have to crank it up and down to use it, which makes it very convenient. That means you don't have to worry about it breaking off because you forgot it was there. Users also like that it works so well with existing wiring.

One drawback is that it may not produce more channels than an old batwing antenna. You may also have to adjust it frequently to get better reception. There have also been some complaints that customer service could be better.

Specs

• Size: 12 in L x 16 in W x 2 in H
• Range: 40 to 75 miles
• Signals Received: VHF, UHF, and HD

Pros

• Low-profile and folds down
• Retrofitting takes just five minutes
• Reliable, consistent signal
• Long-range signal acquisition

Cons

• Must be mounted 90 degrees
• Can’t be used on RVs with roof pitches greater than 3 degrees

The KING Jack antenna features universal mounting brackets for RV and home use. Its upgraded technology enhances UHF signal reception while still receiving VHF broadcast channels. A quick and simple retrofit upgrades the antenna to digital HD. It has long-range signal acquisition and broad reception coverage to quickly locate the strongest signal and maximize reception.

It’s very lightweight, low profile, and easy to install. Numerous stations come in clearly, and the signal is solid and doesn't drop or freeze the picture. There is no need to crank it up and down, so you don't have to worry about leaving it up and driving out of the RV park. It also has a sleek and modern look. It's a solid and affordable replacement for stock RV TV antennas.

One downside is the design requires that it be mounted 90 degrees so it can be lowered all the way down, which may be problematic for some RVs. Also, you cannot place it on your RV roof if the pitch is greater than 3 degrees. There have also been some complaints that it doesn't pick up as many channels as some competing brands, particularly the batwing variety.