10 Best RV TV Antennas Buying Guide

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Last Updated on August 19, 2024 by Paul Clayton

10 Best RV TV Antennas Buying Guide

With the advanced technology used in RV TV antennas, users can enjoy clear, high-definition channels without needing a cable subscription. Whether you are on a camping trip or a long journey, it provides a solution for reliable and quality television reception.

• RV TV antenna: Receives broadcast television signals for RVs.
• Types: Indoor, outdoor, and satellite antennas available.
• Indoor antennas: Small, easy installation, limited range.
• Outdoor antennas: Larger, roof installation, more comprehensive range.
• Satellite antennas: More channels, expensive subscription service.
• Omnidirectional antennas: Receive signals from all directions.
• Proper installation ensures the best reception and antenna lifespan.

A getaway on your recreational vehicle can mean independence from modern and updated forms of entertainment. This is very enjoyable for some RV enthusiasts as they can fully concentrate and enjoy the splendid sight of beautiful Mother Nature.

However, you cannot always stay outdoors all the time, and staying in your RV for a long time can lead to boredom. Fortunately, you can continually improve your RV’s primary entertainment by installing the best television and TV antenna.

The best RV TV antennas ensure that you have access to multiple channels. Regardless of your location, you can watch your favorite shows and get the latest weather reports and news.

News and weather updates can help you adjust your travel for a more comfortable journey.

We have listed a few RV TV antennas available in the market that will suit your RV owner’s needs. Before we check them out, let us understand what an RV TV antenna is and its features.

Consider it one of the RV gadgets to place at the top of your shopping list.

What is it?

An RV TV antenna is simply a television antenna typically installed on your house or, in this case, a trailer. Travelers and campers often use this during camping.

This is because even if they are in the middle of nowhere, they can still get good reception and watch their favorite channels as long as there’s an RV antenna attached to their TV.

Benefits

As stated above, your RV antenna gives you good reception and comprehensive coverage, so you can access multiple channels to keep you entertained and updated on your trip. Having an RV TV antenna on your recreational vehicle will give you the following benefits:

You can watch shows in HD

Your RV TV antenna can provide great reception. This reception will allow you to get the very best signals, allowing you to watch your favorite shows in High Definition.

No subscription is needed to view local shows

This excellent RV antenna benefit will help you save money.  You usually must pay a monthly cable or TV subscription fee to enjoy the local shows.

With an RV TV antenna, you will no longer need to pay a fee to watch local shows. The antenna picks up local channel signals, so you can watch them for free.

It gives you an internet connection

An RV TV antenna that detects a signal can give you an internet connection through Wi-Fi properties. If the internet connection at your location is strong enough, you can even stream movies.

You can also use the connection to download a program on your laptop. If you worry about leaving some unfinished work, you can still finish those tasks even while camping as you have an internet connection.

You will not miss any episode of your favorite television shows, even while traveling

An RV television antenna has a wide coverage area. This means you can still get the channels and shows you usually watch at home regardless of location, even deep in the woods or on a mountain.

You do not have to worry about missing an episode of your regularly watched show.

Things to Consider in Buying an RV TV Antenna

If you want the best channels, just any RV antenna will not work. You have to find the best antenna that can pull the greatest reception. A grand reception can get you the best signal that can give you your favorite channels. So how do you know which one to buy?

There are so many RV TV antenna brands available in the market. You should know what to look for to find the RV antenna best suited to your needs.

Price

If you do not consider price when buying a product, I envy you. Price is always something most buyers consider when making a purchase. Cheaper RV antennas are lighter on the pocket.

However, your RV antenna will accompany you on a long journey in unfamiliar terrain and weather. It would be best to shell out a little extra for a good-quality RV TV antenna.

Cheaper antennas might not give you the performance and the life span you expect.

Weight

If you are buying an outdoor RV antenna, examine its weight closely. If you are going to or will be passing by a windy or vital weather region, choose a bulkier RV antenna.

Lightweight and flimsy antennas are easily handled, but they are unsuitable for areas with many low-hanging tree branches or strong winds.

Wifi Capacity

The Internet has become a necessity for most people nowadays, so it is not surprising that most RV TV antennas come with Wi-Fi capabilities.

If you cannot live without the Internet, find an RV antenna with a strong and stable Wi-Fi capacity so you can have access even in the middle of the woods.

VHF and UHF Signals

Check the antenna description very carefully. Some antennas can only pick up the VHF channels or only the UHF channels, but they cannot pick up both.

You would want an RV antenna that can pick up both channels to receive all the DTV signals from the stations in the surrounding areas. VHF channels are TV channels 2 to 13, and UF channels are TV channels 14 to 51.

Material

Before making a decision, check the material composition of an RV TV antenna. Most are made of plastic, although others are made of aluminum.

Plastic antennas are great indoors but not recommended for outdoors. Aluminum-made antennas are the best choice if you plan to install them outdoors, as they do not rust even if they get wet from the rain.

They are also durable and sturdier than the plastic ones.

Type

When buying an antenna, you should also consider its type. Do you want an outdoor or indoor antenna? Outdoor antennas are bulky, but they can provide better coverage.

As the name suggests, indoor antennas are more compact and can fit inside or outside your RV. However, they have lower coverage.

Reception Coverage

You should know your antenna’s range (how far it can reach) and the types of satellites it can access. Choose antennas with higher coverage to fully enjoy your RV antenna’s benefits.

If you already have one, but it has a low reception distance signal, get an RV antenna booster instead of buying a new one.

With so many things to consider, we reviewed some of the best RV TV antennas that can help keep you entertained and informed while on a road trip.

The Top Rated RV TV Antennas

1. Winegard GM-6035 Carryout G2+ Portable Satellite Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 19.7 x 16.4 x 16.3 inches

Weight:  10 pounds

The Winegard GM-6035 Carryout G2+ Portable Satellite Antenna is an excellent choice for a recreational TV antenna. It is fully functional, so you can enjoy all of its benefits.

Its unique and sleek design makes it easy to set up and install without professional help or any tools. Unlike a traditional bulky antenna, the Winegard is compact, so you can easily lift it for installation.

You can unwrap it from its box, plug it in, and start scanning for channels.

This antenna is round, which gives it omnidirectional properties. Once you install it, you can start receiving a signal from a radius of 360 degrees.

Because it is omnidirectional, the signal goes to your location, so you will not need a remote control to look for a signal.

It receives free HD TV broadcasts from CBS, ABC, Fox, NBC, and PBS. With this antenna, you have a free TV for life—you do not have to pay for a satellite or cable.

Another thing we like about this 1byone is that it’s all weatherproof. Its design is snowproof and waterproof, and the anti-UV coating shields it from UV rays for minimum interference.

It performs excellently in HDTV and digital signal reception, even in harsh outdoor conditions.

The only setback we see is that the signal depends on your location. You cannot use your antenna in an area with a weak signal.

Pros:

• It comes with a 12-month warranty
• It has a sleek and modern design
• It has a sturdy mount
• Its range of channel coverage is wide
• Its reception is omnidirectional
• You can install it easily

Cons:

• Its power supply is 12 volts
• Its availability of service is dependent on the location

2. KING OA8300 Jack Replacement Head HDTV Directional Over-the-Air Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 2 inches

Weight: 1.5 pounds

King produces a great RV antenna lineup, but for long-range signals, the KING OA8300 Jack Replacement Head HDTV Directional Over-the-Air Antenna is highly recommended.

This antenna has universal RV mounting brackets and clear instructions for easy installation. It only takes around 25 minutes to have it fully installed and operational.

The King Jack OA8300’s sleek, compact design blends well and looks good on your RV. It is smaller (by about 70%) than the other traditional RV TV antenna. It also has five-minute retrofit upgrades to upgrade the batwing antenna to digital HD.

It uses a UHF-improved signal for maximized reception and better coverage. Its DTV channels have better signals by around 80% than others.

It guarantees a more enjoyable viewing experience with its maintained reception of VHF channels. This antenna typically delivers at least 30 channels.

The only downside of this product is its stability. If you have the Winnebago Aspect RV, installing a flat on your roof may be challenging.

Pros:

• It has a nice and sleek design
• Its coverage range is wider
• You can do a retrofitted upgrade to its digital HD
• You can install it easily

Cons:

• It can be unstable

3. King OA8500 Jack HDTV Directional Over-the-Air Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 12 x 16 x 8.9 inches

Weight: 2.6 pounds

The King OA8500 Jack HDTV Directional Over the Air Antenna is another King product that comes highly recommended.

With this renowned king-quality antenna, you can expect that it will use the latest and best technology to produce a great directional antenna during manufacturing. It simply means that you get a better signal and more channels.

Its sleek, aerodynamic design is around 70% smaller than other traditional antennas, but it is better at getting long-range signals. Because of its long-range, you can get many channels.

The signal is also quite strong, even if you lower the antenna to about 12 inches. Its compact design also makes it wind-resistant.

This antenna offers easy installation with its high-tech, modern features and clear installation manual.  You can even use your old power supply with this device.

We suggest you mount this antenna so its coax connection faces your RV’s rear, which is the same direction your mast takes when retracting.

The King OA8500 also includes a built-in King Sure Lock Signal Finder so you can find local channels easily. You can rotate its interior knob up to 360 degrees so you can locate the most robust signal without any dead spots.

This antenna performs excellently and is very durable. It can keep up with your RV’s specific demands. Our only complaint is that it does not have a mounting roof plate or a limited 4-year warranty for parts.

Pros:

• It has a better signal so that you can have more channels
• It has many high-tech and modern features
• It comes with a clear and precise manual
• It is aerodynamic and compact, allowing a stable installation on the top of your RV
• It includes a built-in signal finder for a maximized reception

Cons:

• It does not include a mounting roof plate
• It has a limited warranty

4. KING VQ4500 Tailgater Portable/Roof Mountable Satellite TV Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 22.7 x 20 x 16.2 inches

Weight: 8 pounds

The KING VQ4500 Tailgater Portable/Roof Mountable Satellite TV Antenna lets you enjoy live, crystal-clear DISH HD TV anywhere. You can easily use it in your RV, at the stadium parking lot, or even when camping in the woods.

With this antenna, you can watch all your favorite shows and the local channels.  Enjoy watching movies, TV series, games, the news, the weather, and more using this product.

You will not pay a monthly subscription fee; you will only pay for the months you use the service.

The King VQ4500 also has multiple television viewing options for convenient family trips. You would no longer need to set up your tripod dish or put it away when camping.

This antenna also has automatic aiming, so you can easily set it up. It is operational out of the box. It only weighs around 8 pounds and is highly portable so you can bring it on your camping trips.

You can install it on your RV’s roof without an additional bracket. This antenna gets power from the receiver and does not need a separate power source.

With all its beautiful features, though, it still has a couple of setbacks. It cannot capture HD (high-definition) programming. However, you can buy a separately sold receiver for DISH HD to watch in HD.

It also has limited local channels. Like most satellites or antennas, it can pick up only on 101 satellite channels. If the other satellite (119 satellite) is the one that picks up on your favorite channel, you can purchase the King UC1000 universal controller.

Pros:

• It automatically gets the signal
• It is portable
• It picks up a lot of your favorite local channels and programs
• You can set it up easily
• You can watch from different TV’s (multiple-viewing feature)

Cons:

• It can only capture 101 satellite’s local channels
• It does not capture HD programming

5. Winegard RFL 342 SensarPro Signal Meter

Summary

Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 3 inches

Weight: 4.8 ounces

The Winegard RFL 342 SensarPro Signal Meter perfectly accompanies your Winegard RV WING Wingman Booster Antenna or any other Winegard Antenna model.

You can use this meter to scan the channels’ modes. It will tell you which channels receive the least or most reception. Based on the channel’s reception, you can then adjust your RV antenna.

Aside from its capability to detect the quality of your signal, it also functions as a booster for your RV TV antenna. With just a button press, you can increase or decrease your antenna’s capacity to get a signal.

You can efficiently operate and control the Winegard RFL 342. You need to know how to use its five modes. The available modes are – Volume, Gain, Channel, Seek, and Scan.

Each mode has a specific purpose: to help you get the best reception quality from the antenna. The package includes a manual with full details and instructions on operating each mode.

Before running a TV channel scan, you can peak in the signals with the Seek, Channel, and Scan Modes. This would give you the best quality signal for your favorite show.

It has an amplifier that allows you to adjust the gain with just one press. It also has volume audio signal feedback that you can adapt to make your antenna’s aim more accessible.

The warranty is disappointing as it only covers parts for two years and labor for one year.

Pros:

• It has five modes, so you can easily control it
• It is compact and handy
• It is easy to install
• You can connect it to any Winegard models
• It helps you effectively find every channel’s best and highest-quality reception

Cons:

• It only functions for over-the-air signals
• Limited two-year warranty

6. Magnadyne RVTV-W2 Omni-Directional Amplified TV/AM/FM Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.7 x 15.6 inches

Weight: 2.7 pounds

The Magnadyne RVTV-W2 Omni-Directional Amplified TV/AM/FM Antenna is a practical choice. Its aerodynamic, solid design is UV-protected and weatherproof.

It can tolerate even the harshest weather, making it the perfect travel partner for your RV.

It has a signal reception of 360 degrees and receives both the VHF and UHF frequencies. It also does not require aiming or hand-cranking, making it very easy to use.

You do not even need to lower it before traveling. In addition to the local channels, this antenna also comes with free digital TV programming, letting you watch TV shows, the local news, and live sports.

However, we do not recommend self-installation for this antenna. It would be best to ask a professional to install it.

Another disappointing factor about this antenna is that Winegard states that this model has an extended range of 35 miles. However, when tested, local reception is only available within 25 miles of a tower.

Upon scanning, it was able to capture 40 channels or more. If you want to amplify its range, you can always use an antenna amplifier to get more channels.

Pros:

• It is weatherproof
• You do not need to aim for it
• It has a 360-degree signal reception
• It has an amplified RV TV antenna
• It gives you free access to digital television programming

Cons:

• Its range is only up to 25 miles
• You might need professional help to install it

7. Winegard RV WING Wingman Booster Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 18 x 15 x 1.8 inches

Weight: 1.35 pounds

The Winegard RV WING Wingman Booster Antenna is a well-known Winegard product. Its very long range and VHF capabilities make it ideal for the road.

Its long range and VHF capabilities give even its weakest channel a clear reception. You can even enjoy a variety of channel options because of its OTA programming.

You can watch live sports, the local weather and news, and many top-rated shows for free anytime and anywhere.

Due to its compact size, this antenna is easy to set up or install. There are three easy steps: First, you open up and raise your Sensar antenna.

Second, remove the rubber bumpers from the bottom (you can use your fingers or pliers).

Third, align the holes from the bumpers and the Wingman holes and attach them by inserting push rivets into those aligned holes. You can now mount your antenna on your RV or trailer’s roof and scan for channels.

Even though we love this antenna’s compact size, we wish Winegard could improve its flimsy design so it can withstand bad weather and last longer.

Pros:

• It can capture 51 UHF channels and 13 VHF channels
• All channels have clear reception
• It comes with a mechanism that you can easily install
• It is compact and easy to handle

Cons:

• Its design is rather flimsy
• Lousy weather has an impact on its reception

8. Winegard RVW 205 Sensar Wingman Replacement Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 47.6 x 15.6 x 2.7 inches

Weight: 1.5 pounds

The Winegard RVW 205 Sensar Wingman Replacement Antenna is simple yet effective. It can pick up long-range signals, as far as more than 55 miles. This means that your channel’s reception is very clear.

It has an amplifier built into the unit to pull in the best signal, even for weaker channels. Thus, you always get high-definition reception.

Most users love this product’s durability. This antenna has a powder coating that protects it from damaging external factors. It can tolerate lousy weather conditions and will last for a long time.

Knowing that your RV TV antenna can withstand heavy rains or snowstorms, you have one less worry while traveling.

We like that this unit is lightweight; however, its weight seems to work against it. Because it is very light, it is a little flimsy when mounted.

Pros:

• It has a good reception
• It has rotational features so that you can get the best angle
• It is durable due to the powder coating that protects it
• It has printed instructions
• It is lightweight and easy to handle and carry
• It has a built-in amplifier

Cons:

• It is flimsy when mounted
• It is almost the same as the previous Winegard model

9. Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV White DTV/HD TV Antenna

Summary

Dimensions: 47.6 x 15.6 x 2.7 inches

Weight: 1.5 pounds

Winegard and King are the top antenna providers in the market. It is no wonder that the Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV White DTV/HD TV Antenna is a very exceptional product.

This antenna has an extended range of more than 55 miles, so you should expect clear, high-definition programs regardless of where you are. It receives VHF and UHF signals, a sought-after feature for RV TV Antennas.

Most antennas can only receive either of the signals, so this capability sets the Winegard RVW-395 apart.

Winegard combined the UHF-enhanced antenna with the Sensar II antenna to get a strong signal and the best TV viewing over the air.

Please note that this did not happen overnight. Winegard spent decades of research and trial and error improving its products continually.

This product comes with a manual that clearly explains the step-by-step antenna installation. It would only take about 30 minutes to install. The antenna is also reasonably easy to adjust, as you can rotate, lower, or raise it using a hand crank inside your RV.

Winegard also tested this product for its environment and UV impact, showing it is safe. What we like the least about this antenna is its cheap construction.

Winegard used plastic to make some of its gears, making them less durable as they may strip out in harsh weather. The mast tubes are also short, but you can always buy a more extended mount if you need one.

Pros:

• It is a high-range antenna product
• It receives VHF HD and UHF signals
• It is easy and quick to install
• You can easily rotate, lower, or raise the antenna even when inside your RV
• It comes with a step-by-step manual

Cons:

• It contains plastic parts that are not durable
• It has a short amount

10. Winegard SK-SWM3 DIRECTV TRAVELER RV Satellite System

Summary

Dimensions: 44 x 34 x 9.8 inches

Weight: 53 pounds

The Winegard SK-SWM3 DIRECTV TRAVELER RV Satellite System is the only satellite RV antenna compatible with DIRECTV HD programming.

This is an imposing feature because it means that you do not need to test and check signals using a compass and signal strength meter. The antenna even auto-tunes itself, so all you have to do is relax and wait.

This RV TV antenna is omnidirectional and can view all of Directv’s satellites. It can maximize high-definition programming from 99, 101, and 103 satellites and provide a powerful signal, as approved and certified by reflectors.

The installation process is a little complex, and you might need professional assistance if you want it installed quickly. This large dish, which is also auto-aiming, is heavy, so installing it on your own is not just tricky but might also be dangerous.

Once it has been set up and installed, all you need to do is power up the system, and you can watch TV in about 5 minutes. You and your family members can even watch different channels simultaneously.

It is excellent for family trips where several members want to watch different shows while on the road.

Remember that you must purchase the receiver for the DIRECT HD and the HD viewing program separately, so you must spend a bit extra money for both.

Pros:

• It is compatible with the programming of DIRECT HD or a Genie receiver
• It has an omnidirectional antenna that is self-auto-tune
• It gives a powerful signal
• You can watch different channels simultaneously

Cons:

• It requires professional help for installation
• The package does not include the receiver for DIRECT HD and HD viewing programs

Other Things To Consider

Types Available

RV antennas come in two different types. The most common is the outdoor antenna, which is the most widely used type and is often seen on the roofs of houses or recreational vehicles.

The indoor antenna is the other antenna type. It is also common, although not as widely used. Here is a little more information about them.

• Indoor

This antenna has a lesser range than its outdoor counterpart but offers more convenience. As its name implies, you install or place this antenna indoors.

You can usually see this on the top of the television set, where you can turn it on when needed.

This type of antenna is ideal if you are not very particular about the variety or quality of the channels you get.

A great indoor RV TV antenna can give you an excellent high-definition quality and range.

• Outdoor

You place this antenna on the roof of your home or your trailer. Since it is outside, it can effectively pick up reception, which makes this the most used antenna when traveling in an RV.

As it is outdoors, the tree branches and leaves that fall on it can sometimes block its capabilities. To avoid this, check and clean your outdoor antenna if needed. You can also fold it if you are not watching TV.

Frequently Asked Questions

RV antennas are imperfect, and you will likely experience occasional issues. Here are a few questions asked by RV antenna users.

How do you troubleshoot a King Jack RV TV antenna?

If you use a King Jack Antenna without reception or see a pixelated screen, troubleshoot your antenna by following these steps. Check the rotational knob and look for a switch.

Once you find it, switch it on to turn on the King Sure Lock Signal Meter and power injector. When those are on, slowly turn your antenna’s attenuator to your right, then press a button that is on the knob.

Continue to rotate the attenuator and press the knob until you get clear reception of the channel that you want.

When using the RV antenna, do I need additional hardware?

Most RV antennas are ready to use with no extra devices or accessories needed. However, to enhance your RV antenna experience, you can get the signal booster and the signal strength meter.

You use the meter to monitor the strength of the signal, and you use the booster to enhance or improve the signal.

When using a camper antenna, how do I receive better reception?

We suggest you purchase an excellent antenna booster to ensure a good reception with your camper antenna. Antenna boosters help pull in signals so you can access more channels with high-definition quality.

Do not feel discouraged if you experience problems when using your RV TV antenna booster for the first couple of times; you will fully enjoy its benefits once you know how to use it properly.

Where should you point the RV TV antenna?

There is no exact direction for pointing your RV antenna. You adjust your antenna to look for the best channel reception. You have to turn your antenna in a direction and then scan to check what channels it can capture.

If you do not get the proper reception, slowly turn your antenna in another direction or a quarter more in the same direction and scan again. Just keep rotating and adjusting your antenna until you find what you want.

How do you use the RV antenna?

Most of the antennas we have mentioned above are generally just plug-and-play. You have to install it, and you can now use it. There are no installation fees to pay.

Follow the instructions in the manual, and you can immediately scan for channels after installation. Remember to check channel reception after each installation so you will know if you are receiving good reception.

Can I put a regular TV in my RV?

Yes, you can put a regular TV in your RV. However, you must consider a few factors. Firstly, the TV’s power consumption should match the RV’s electrical system capacity.

Secondly, the TV should be securely mounted to withstand movement during travel. It’s also worth noting that a regular TV may not have the same durability and flexibility as a specially designed-RV TV.

Therefore, while installing a regular TV in your RV is possible, investing in a model specifically for recreational vehicles might be more beneficial.

Wrapping Up

RV TV Antennas are integral for those on the move, facilitating access to broadcast television signals. Several RV TV antennas are available, each with unique features and benefits.

While small in size and easy to install, indoor antennas offer a limited signal reception range. In contrast, outdoor antennas are larger and require roof installation but provide a more comprehensive signal reception range, making them a preferred choice for many.

Satellite antennas represent another option, offering access to a more extensive selection of channels. However, they are more expensive and typically require a subscription service.

One can also opt for omnidirectional antennas that receive signals from all directions, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Regardless of the type chosen, proper installation is paramount to ensure the best reception and optimize the antenna’s lifespan.

It’s important to note that RV TV antennas are a crucial investment for those who spend considerable time in their RVs, ensuring they stay connected and entertained during their travels.

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