People live or travel in an RV for varying reasons. Some would say that it’s counterintuitive to bring technology with them onboard, but we think that a television set is essential for a lot of beneficial reasons.
If you install a TV set in your RV, you will need good reception, and that is only possible if you pick one of the best RV antennas available.
Your RV TV antenna should be durable, versatile, easy to install, and have the optimum range to deliver good quality reception. We’ve compiled a diverse list of the best TV antennas for RV to help you make the right decision.
Go ahead and find what you’re looking for before getting back on the road.
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At A Glance: 5 Best RV TV Antennas This Year
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1. Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R Satellite TV Antenna and DISH Wally Receiver Bundle
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2. 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna
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3. KING OA1000 OmniPro Portable Omnidirectional HDTV Over-the-Air Antenna
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4. Antop UFO Smartpass Amplified 360 Degree Omni Outdoor HDTV Antenna
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5. KING Jack HDTV Directional Antenna & Signal Meter
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What Is An RV TV Antenna?
An RV TV antenna is a type of antenna that is specifically designed for use with recreational vehicles.
Unlike traditional antennas, RV antennas are much smaller and more compact, making them ideal for use in RVs, which often have limited space.
In addition, RV antennas are designed to be more durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for use in all types of weather conditions.
Most RV antennas are also equipped with a built-in amplifier, which helps to boost the signal strength and improve reception quality.
What We Looked For In The Best RV Antenna
An RV TV antenna needs a unique design to take on the challenges and limitations of being utilized in an RV.
For the best results, we made sure that the antennas that we picked had all the crucial qualities to deliver good reception wherever you may be.
Qualities such as:
- Adaptability: RV TV antennas need a design that will give you many options on where to install them in your vehicle and still provide good reception. They should also be highly adjustable.
- Durability: Given that antennas need to be installed outdoors, they should be durable against all sorts of elements and endure a few years of usage to be good investments.
- Versatility: Given the high chance that you’ll be moving from one place to another frequently, an RV TV antenna needs to be able to detect multiple kinds of TV signals.
- Functionality: An RV TV antenna should have multiple innovative features to be genuinely considered top-notch.
What To Look For In A Good RV Antenna
We have our suggestions, but only you know what’s best for your RV lifestyle.
So, here are some aspects that we want to emphasize that you should consider when purchasing your next RV TV antenna.
Omnidirectional vs. Directional Antennas
Antennas come in all shapes and sizes, but they can broadly be classified as either omnidirectional or directional.
Omnidirectional antennas radiate energy equally in all directions, while directional antennas focus energy in a specific direction. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Omnidirectional antennas are simple to install and require no aiming, making them ideal for applications where portability is important.
However, their relatively low gain means that they are not well suited for long-range communications.
On the other hand, directional antennas can provide much higher gain, allowing for a greater range and more reliable communications. However, they must be carefully aimed to work correctly, which can be difficult in mobile applications. In the end,
Design
Design is crucial for RV TV antennas, given the limitations and special requirements of an RV. Look for an antenna that suits your vehicle the most. For example, do you need a portable one or a static outdoor antenna?
The ones we listed above all have innovative designs and build, eliminating the usual RV TV antenna problems and inconveniences.
Size & Weight
Naturally, the smaller the antenna, the more space you save. Bulky antennas for an RV are most likely not a good idea. The smaller it gets, the less it will weigh, which is advantageous for safety reasons.
Signal Range
RV TV antennas not only need to capture signals but maximize them by amplifying them. So, antennas that can acquire signals quickly are great without you having to crank them just to get reception.
Mounting/Installation Process
The goal of RV living is to keep things simple. That’s why installing an RV TV antenna should also be straightforward. Units that can be installed easily are also the ones that are designed well.
Durability
Since your RV TV antenna will most likely be installed outdoors, you must ensure that it is made of durable material. Silver is an ideal material, but aluminum works well. Plastic and steel follow. The wiring is also crucial and should be considered apart from the tubing.
Additional Features
Additional features like being able to support multiple signals at the same time are also ideal. An antenna with Wi-Fi capability is also a plus.
Some antennas allow for multiple TV viewing simultaneously, but we doubt you’ll need that in an RV. Our top pick, though, is convenient for its satellite dish capabilities too.
1. Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R Satellite TV Antenna and DISH Wally Receiver Bundle – Best Overall RV Antenna
Specifications
- Dimensions: 24.2 x 22.5 x 20.7 inches
- Weight: 20.4 pounds
- Smooth Exterior
Premium satellite RV TV antenna
The Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R is our top pick for obvious and not so obvious reasons. First of all, its dual capability (as a TV antenna and satellite dish) is already worthy of your investment.
This means that you will have a lot of options as far as channels are concerned, and this means that you will never run out of anything to watch wherever you may be.
You can access channels without any nearby towers with just a Dish Network subscription, and you’ll have flexible options of viewing that would make this a very cost-effective investment.
This antenna/satellite dish can receive both Western and Eastern arcs. That would be for a maximum of SD/HD Dish programming nationwide and in all weather conditions.
You can also connect two TVs to it and stream seamlessly from both. This unit is even 100% automatic; just press start, and it will do the rest. You will have no issues installing or setting it up.
That’s why it’s our top pick.
Pros
- TV antenna and satellite capability all in one
- Convenient to install and a space saver
- You will always have something to watch
Cons
- It is expensive
2. 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna – Best Antenna for a Low-Budget
Specifications
- Max range: 30 feet
- Power Adapter: 12V 200mA
- Frequency Range: 87.5-230MHz; 470-862MHz
- Receiving Range: FM/VHF/UHF
- Antenna Gain: 45dB
- Impedance: 75Ω
- Noise figure: ≤3dB
The best RV TV antenna at an affordable price
If you’re looking for an affordable RV TV antenna, you should look at the 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna. This antenna offers all the right features with simplicity and a unit just right for those on a budget.
If you want to see if having a TV onboard your RV is a good idea; this antenna is the right choice.
This antenna has a 360-degree omnidirectional reception and 100+ miles of range for enhanced VHF and UHF channels. This unit is also 4K ready, easy to install, and comes with a design that gives it the utmost stability even when traveling.
It’s very durable for its price as it is specially made for outdoor usage.
It also comes with a built-in preamplifier and a 4G filter that will boost your signal and ensure that the reception is as straightforward as possible. Finally, as mentioned, this unit requires no tools for installation.
It’s a pretty decent antenna for your RV, and it’s got a rust-resistant quality that you won’t get from any other units within this price range.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Easy to install
- Durable
Cons
- It comes with standard and not very innovative features
3. KING OA1000 OmniPro Portable Omnidirectional HDTV Over-the-Air Antenna – Best Antenna for HDTV Viewing
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 9 inches
- Weight: 2.3 pounds
- Power Options: 110V AC or 12V DC at 100mA
Very versatile RV TV antenna
The King OA1000 is a versatile omnidirectional HDTV antenna that will allow you to watch over the air channels with excellent reception even if you’re moving. That’s because it comes with a solid mount that will stabilize the antenna at all times.
One of its best features is that it’s meant for traveling, and you don’t have to crank it up or down as you usually would for RV TV antennas.
In addition, its multidirectional signal acquisition feature means that you do not need to point it in any direction at all to get a good signal.
It will readily receive free VHF, UHF, and FM signals without requiring you much manual work.
It’s also amplified, so you no longer need a booster to get good reception, even if you’re far away from towers or the city. Finally, you can bet that this unit is easy enough to install and use.
The units come in pristine white or cool black colors. They look simple enough but have an aesthetic that will match your RV.
Pros
- Easy to install
- No pointing in any direction for signal or reception
- Retains decent reception even while traveling
Cons
- Not the most durable unit on our list
4. Antop UFO Smartpass Amplified 360 Degree Omni Outdoor HDTV Antenna – Best Antenna for a Stable Reception
Specifications
- Smartpass Technology Amplified signal between 55 to 65 miles
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Supports: HDTV, 1080P TV, and 4K ULTRA HD
An RV TV antenna with very stable reception
The Antop UFO Smartpass antenna offers stable reception and utmost versatility. It is jam-packed with features that not many RV antennas in its price range offer.
It comes with a brand-exclusive Smartpass technology that serves as an amplifier with a design that allows for easier connection and balances both short and long-range receptions for the best results.
It also comes with a 4G filter that results in a noise-free reception since it successfully blocks 3G and 4G wireless signals that cause common reception issues.
Minimum interference is guaranteed with the additional high gain reception feature onboard the unit.
This RV TV antenna is also very durable. It comes with a UV ray coating and waterproof design on its durable exteriors, ensuring that it can endure all outdoor elements and give you good reception, rain, or shine.
This unit supports both UHF and VHF signals.
Pros
- Very well-rounded features
- Guaranteed durable and meant for outdoor usage
- Strong signal reception and long-range boosting capability
Cons
- Not very versatile when it comes to supported signals
Specifications
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Available in black
- 360-degree rotation
A well-rounded RV TV antenna
If you have a few more bucks to spend for an RV TV antenna, then look at the King Jack HDTV Directional Antenna and Signal Meter. It comes with innovative features that will truly be worthy of your investment.
What‘s unique about this unit is its SureLock feature, a signal finder ability, so you don’t have to do all the manual work yourself. We’ve ascertained that this feature is quite effective, and it can acquire long-range signals, so you’ll have access to a lot more channels than usual.
The antenna is also amplified and comes with a high gain feature. It also comes with an upgraded technology that effectively enhances UHF signals while, at the same time, acquiring VHF broadcast channels.
The reception you’ll be getting is broader, and it won’t take long for this unit to capture channels for you to watch. Since it’s got a boosting capability, once the reception is acquired, the unit makes sure to maximize it.
A very simple and fast antenna pointing feature enables a 360-degree capability. This unit is also super easy to install and has a very compact design. Moreover, it is aerodynamic and resists wind effectively for the utmost stability.
Pros
- It is about 70% smaller than most RV TV antennas
- Locks in on the signal and boosts it effectively
- Great value for money
Cons
- Durability is not its strong suit
How To Mount An RV TV Antenna
These steps apply to replacing an old antenna or installing one for the first time.
- If your RV digital TV antenna is pre-built, the first thing you have to do is find the most suitable place to install it.
- You need to make sure that the location you choose is unobstructed and on your RV’s roof unless the instructions that came with the antenna say differently. This step might not apply if you’ve chosen to buy a portable camper TV antenna.
- The next thing that you need to do is to run the cables. Look for ideal holes or hook-ups in your RV that you can utilize to feed the cables to both your antenna and your TV.
- Once the cables are connected, run a TV scan to check reception and add channels. Most connections work with a coaxial cable. However, if you do not have one, you will need to purchase an ATSC tuner to get it all to work.
How To Change An RV TV Antenna?
An RV TV antenna makes it easy to stay entertained while on the road. However, over time, RV TV antennas can become damaged or broken. If this happens, don’t worry! Changing an RV TV antenna is a relatively straightforward process.
The first thing you’ll need to do is purchase a new antenna. Make sure to get one specifically designed for RVs; otherwise, it may not fit properly or work as effectively. (There’s a great guide, reviews, and comparisons above).
Once you have the new antenna, unscrew the old one from your RV’s roof. Then, carefully remove the old antenna and dispose of it appropriately.
Next, install the new antenna by following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finally, reattach the coaxial cable to the new antenna and screw on the cover.
You’re now ready to enjoy your favorite shows on the road!
How To Use An RV TV Antenna
Here are some essential tips to remember to use your RV TV antenna the right way.
- Make sure that you set up your TV antenna and not the cable option on your TV.
- It is essential to know where to point your antenna to get signals over the air channels.
- The quickest way to acquire channels is to use the scan feature on your TV. It is most often found in the TV menu.
- Some online tools and applications can help you find the channels available in your current location.
- If all else fails, you may need a signal booster to gain better reception.
How Can I Boost Signal Strength For My RV TV Antenna?
It is quite possible to boost the signal that your motorhome TV antenna is receiving to get better reception, but please do note that if there’s no reception, to begin with, signal boosters won’t do much of anything.
Your best bet to get good TV reception is to camp as near as possible to a city where reception is stronger. But, naturally, the further you go, the weaker the signal will be, so a booster like the Winegard TV Antenna Booster will be helpful.
You can expect a crisper image with a good quality RV TV antenna in the first place.
Is An RV Antenna Considered Free TV Or Subscription?
When people think of free TV, they typically think of over-the-air channels that they can pick up with an antenna. Satellite TV, on the other hand, usually requires a paid subscription. So what about an RV antenna? Is it considered free TV?
RV antennas are designed to pick up over-the-air signals from broadcast towers. This means that you can get all of your favorite network television channels without paying for a subscription.
In addition, many RV antennas are also equipped to receive HD signals, so you can enjoy high-definition programming even while you’re on the road.
Of course, to get the most out of your RV antenna, you’ll need to be in an area where signals are strong. You may need a signal booster to get better reception if you’re in a remote location.
Can I Watch TV While Driving?
Unfortunately, the answer to the question “Can I watch TV while driving?” is no. While you may be able to find creative ways to prop up your iPad or phone so that you can see the screen while behind the wheel, it is extremely dangerous and not worth the risk.
Driving requires your full attention and focus on staying safe. Even if you’re just glancing at the screen for a few seconds, that’s all it takes for something terrible to happen.
A car can travel a long distance in a short amount of time, and it only takes a split second for an accident to occur. So, please, keep your eyes on the road and off of the TV while driving. It’s not worth risking your life over.
How To Repair And Maintain An Antenna For RVs?
RV antennas are an important part of any RV and must be adequately maintained to function properly. The first step in repairing an RV antenna is to troubleshoot the problem.
A few common issues can cause an RV antenna to malfunction, such as bad connections, loose parts, or damaged cables.
Once the problem has been identified, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for repairs. This may involve replacing parts or tightening connections.
In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the entire antenna. Use a professional if necessary though it’s a relatively straightforward DIY task with the right tools.
Once the repairs have been made, it is important to regularly check the RV antenna for any signs of wear or damage. This will help to ensure that it remains in good working order and will provide you with the best possible reception.
What Is The Best Sealant To Use When Installing An Antenna On An RV Roof?
When installing an antenna on an RV roof, one important factor is finding the proper sealant. This will ensure a watertight seal that will protect against leaks.
A few different types of sealants can be used, but one of the best options is polyurethane sealant. This type of sealant forms a strong bond and is also flexible, which helps to prevent cracking.
Silicone sealant is another good option, and it can withstand high temperatures. Whichever type of sealant you choose, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and curing times.
Our recommended general sealant for RVs is Sikaflex 221.
With a little careful planning, you can create a watertight seal that will keep your RV’s roof in good condition for years to come.
Read More: Best RV Roof Sealant for RV Campers – Reviews And Comparisons
How To Position RV TV Antenna For The Best Reception
If you want to watch TV in your RV, you’ll need a good antenna. But how do you position the antenna for the best reception?
There are a few things to keep in mind.
- The antenna should be as high up as possible. This will give it a clear line of sight to the broadcast towers.
- The antenna should be as far away from obstructions as possible. This includes trees, buildings, and mountains.
- The antenna should be in an open area. This will help to ensure that there is no interference from other sources.
- If you are using a directional antenna, it should be pointed in the direction of the broadcast towers.
By following these tips, you can position your RV TV antenna for the best possible reception.
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In Conclusion
Remember that the RV TV antenna design that you’re going to purchase will be crucial to its performance.
Given the limited space and need for stability since you’re living or traveling in an RV, specially designed antennas are imperative.
We recognize that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all camper TV antenna.
Still, if you’re looking for the best RV TV antenna on the market today, then we highly recommend the Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R Satellite TV Antenna and DISH Wally Receiver Bundle because of its versatility, durability, convenience, functionality, and premium features.
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