Best TV Antenna for RV

Top 10 Best TV Antenna For RV Reviews in 2024

Recreational vehicles offer a lot of means of entertainment but overall, nothing beat enjoying your favorite TV show after a long day on the road. But as you move from place to place, the TV signal is not always stable and signal loss is far from uncommon in RV travels. That is why if you want to watch TV in peace and keep yourself up to date, you need the best TV antenna for RV. With that, you could reach whatever channel you want to view but with so many models available for purchase nowadays, which one should you choose?     

Comparing The Top-Rated TV Antennas For RV

Best TV RV AntennaWeightPricesOur Reviews
KING Jack OA85002.6 pounds$$$*****
Winegard Wingman1 Pounds$$****
KING Tailgater VQ45008 Pounds$$$$****
Winegard RVW-205 Sensar IV6.5 Pounds$$*****
KING Jack OA83001.5 Pounds$$*****
Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV9 Pounds$$$*****
Winegard SK-SWM3 Slimline53 Pounds$$$$$*****
Winegard PA-1000 Playmaker7 Pounds$$$$*****
Winegard RS-3000 RoadStar2.7 Pounds$$$****
1byone Outdoor HDTV4.6 Pounds$$***

Best TV Antenna For RV: Top 10 Picks for RVers

You are new to RVing and don’t know much about antennas that are specifically designed for such a lifestyle? If that is so, this article shall share with you some wisdom about the RV antenna market and the way to acquire a solid product. Down below, you would see a couple of models that are held in high regard by RV TV antenna reviews when it comes to the best TV antenna for RV.  Assess these antennas and see if one of them could match your needs and requirements.

1. KING Jack OA8500 – Best Of The Best

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 12 x 16 x 8.9 Inches
  • Weight: 2.6 pounds

Why It’s The Best

Simple to install and also easy to use, KING Jack OA8500 is the best TV antenna for RV when it comes to all-around performance. The KING model comes with everything you need such as mount, signal finder and a straightforward instruction manual as well. Thanks to the incorporation of new technologies, the antenna is able to deliver much better UHF signal reception while still let you view VHF channels.  

In term of price, the KING antenna is often referred to as the best RV over-the-air antenna for RVers that limited shopping budget. Compared to other over-the-air models, this antenna possesses superior signal acquisition and the result is more TV channel. Being an aerodynamic design that minimizes wind resistance, it’s possible to mount the antenna in whichever way you like.  With its innovative 360-degree rotation mechanism, the antenna has no dead spot in signal coverage.

Since the antenna is flexible and versatile, it could work with the original mast and power supply of your RV.

Therefore, it only takes a few moments to set up and after that, the antenna automatically locks on the strongest TV signals in the region.

Pros:

  • Hassle-free installation
  • User-friendly operation  
  • Excellent signal reception

Cons:

  • Dim LED indicator    
  • No roof mounting plate

2. Winegard Wingman – Editor’s Choice

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 16.5 x 14 x 1.4 Inches
  • Weight: 1 Pounds

Why This An Editor’s Choice

Need a model optimized for UHF reception and digital channel? Then you must take a good look at Winegard Wingman. Capable of increasing your UHF reception by 100%, the Winegard antenna is an excellent investment for RVers that have to pass through areas with limited signals.  Featuring a strong built-in amplifier, the antenna experiences no trouble picking up channel signals from miles away without fail. That means RVers would always have stable receptions with the Winegard antenna on their vehicle.

Specifically made with a powder coating to improve overall endurance, the antenna remains operational if exposed to rain and snow. Hence, for RVers that want something that shall last a lifetime in the outdoors, this antenna is a great bargain. The rugged nature of the antenna permits it to work under harsh weathers and so it receives a lot of praises from year-round RVers.  

Winegard places heavy emphasis on ease of installation and Winegard Wingman is not an exception. On average, you could get the unit up and running in a blink of an eye without using special tools. Once you are done setting it up, the antenna would start delivering additional channels to your TV and you don’t have to pay anything.

Pros:

  • Free TV programming
  • Improve UHF reception
  • Admirable weather resistance

Cons:

  • Slightly expensive price tag  
  • Incompatible with some setups

3. KING Tailgater VQ4500 – Editor’s Choice

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 13.5 x 18.75 x 17 Inches
  • Weight: 8 Pounds

Why This An Editor’s Choice

Combining quality materials and high manufacturing standards, KING Tailgater VQ4500 is able to operate in various setting with relative ease.  Depend on the wish of the RVers, the model could be used either as a portable TV antenna for RV or a roof-mounted unit. While the cost of the KING antenna is far from cheap, its field performance more than justifies the cost.  

One convenient feature of the KING model is that it supports multiple TV viewing so it’s a nice addition to family trips on RV. At a weight of 8 pounds, this antenna is somewhat heavier than its market competitors but overall bulk is still manageable. Normally, you should be able to get the model to work in less than 15 minutes and there is no need to use additional securing brackets.    

Being a DISH-compatible unit, the antenna would offer you up to 2 payment options: sign up for a membership and pay as you go (monthly). There are 2 DISH receivers on the antenna so all you have to do is to connect the receivers straight to the TVs through coax cables. From there on, it’s possible for you to view more channels assuming that you have a DISH satellite service.

Pros:

  • Match many RV settings   
  • Accommodate multiple TVs  
  • Automatically pick up signals

Cons:

  • The acquisition cost is high
  • Unable to get HD channels

>> Read more: The 7 Best WiFi Boosters For RV To Buy Today <<

4. Winegard RVW-205 Sensar IV – Best Bang For The Buck

Check price and reviewsSpecifications:

  • Dimension: 46.25 x 15.25 x 30 Inches
  • Weight: 6.5 Pounds

Why We Love It

Like the idea behind Winegard Wingman but want something more? In that case, you should consider pairing the Wingman with the Winegard Sensar IV, the best TV antenna for RV in term of cost-effectiveness. Capable of receiving UHF, VHF, HD and digital channels, the Winegard unit is a must-have for RVers that want to enjoy uninterrupted TV entertainment.

Featuring an impressive signal range of 55 miles, the Winegard unit is widely thought of as one of the most powerful TV antennas for RV uses. Equipped with a robust built-in amplifier, this model boosts weak signals and that is going to improve the overall quality of the screen images. For adjustment, feel free to raise, lower and rotate the model from inside the RV until everything suits your taste.  

For installation, the entire process would take around 30 minutes or so which is acceptable and you could fit in the Wingman after that if needed. However, you need at least 10 inches between the Sensar head and the nearest obstruction in order to use the Wingman. As the antenna is meant to be used on the vehicle roof, it’s a good idea to windproof it.

Pros:

  • Great signal range
  • Forgiving handling
  • Boost weak TV signal

Cons:

  • The mount is a wee bit short
  • Some plastic part seems flimsy   

5. KING Jack OA8300 RV Antenna

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 12 x 16 x 2 Inches
  • Weight: 1.5 Pounds

Why We Love It

With the use of a universal mounting bracket, KING Jack OA8300 is the best TV antenna for RV when it comes to flexibility and versatility. No matter how odd the layout of your RV is, you could set up the KING antenna without much difficulty. Assuming that you have common senses and follow the manual that accompanies the unit, the installation should take roughly 25 minutes.  

Not only the KING model is able to improve UHF signal reception but it also retains coverage of VHF channels too. That is why if you get this antenna and connect it to your TV set, you could enjoy all kinds of shows as you travel. Compared to other models available for purchase on the market, the antenna offers more free channels without requiring frequent rotations.  

Able to run on DC and AC power supply, the unit suits a lot of applications: RV, house, indoor, outdoor,…  Having a humble body, the antenna blends well with most backgrounds and that is what makes it an attractive model.  As the unit also comes with a nice 1-year warranty, rest assured knowing that KING always stands behind the product.     

Pros:

  • Slim and sleek
  • Wide coverage
  • Pick up UHF/VHF signals

Cons:

  • Less than ideal stability   
  • Inconsistent performance       

6. Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV Antenna

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 47.6 x 15.9 x 30 Inches
  • Weight: 9 Pounds

Why We Love It  

Quality is your first and foremost priority? Base on that, Winegard RVW-395 Sensar IV is the best TV antenna for RV you could acquire nowadays. Capable of supporting HD TV, 1080p TV and 4K Ultra-HD, the Winegard model is the best option for RVers that have money to spare. In addition to that, the presence of an advanced 4G LTE filter in the unit design minimize signal interference and keep the connection generally stable.

Similar to RVW-205, RVW-395 possesses an integrated amplifier too so it would have an easy time boosting weak TV signals before transmitting them to your TV. Since it’s an omni-directional unit, the antenna functions well as you pass through locations that have rather poor receptions and heavy interferences. Of course, if you feel that you need to make changes to orientation, simply use the hand crank to raise, lower and rotate the antenna.   

As with other product from Winegard, this antenna receives a protective coating in the factory. Because of that, the unit handles weather elements well and it should remain functional for a long period of time.  For installation, you don’t have to waste too much time and effort in order to set the antenna up, the process typically lasts 15 minutes.

Pros:

  • High resistance
  • Long signal range
  • Admirable reception

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Short mount  

7. Winegard SK-SWM3 Slimline RV Antenna

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Specifications

  • Dimension: 9.75 x 44 x 34 Inches
  • Weight: 53 Pounds

Why We Love It

Designed for RVers that are using DirecTV, Winegard SK-SWM3 Slimline permits access to an amazing number of TV channels. Incorporating solid reflectors, the Winegard unit never fails to deliver strong as well as constant signals to the TV screen. Therefore, you could watch a variety of high-definition TV programs from desired DirecTV satellites. Featuring a convenient hassle-free interface, you only need to hit a single button to activate and deactivate the antenna.

Thanks to the fact that it accepts the majority of DirecTV receivers (Genie, HD and DVR), this antenna works fairly well with most TV setups. So as long as you have a TV, a receiver and an active DirecTV package, you could put the antenna to good use without fail.

With a weight of 53 pounds, the model is not exactly a portable TV antenna for RV and the installation might take up to an hour. On the bright side, a heavy-duty model like that experience negligible issues when it comes to snow and rain. In term of post-purchase support, RVers receiver a 2-year warranty for parts along with a 1-year warranty for labor.

Pros:

  • Auto-tune
  • Impressive compatibility
  • Support multi-viewing

Cons:

  • Slightly complex installation  
  • Mostly goods for stationary applications

8. Winegard PA-1000 Playmaker Antenna

Check price and reviewsSpecifications:

  • Dimension: 16 x 13 Inches
  • Weight: 7 Pounds

Why We Love It

Compact and lightweight, Winegard PA-1000 Playmaker is in essence the best TV antenna for RV when it comes to portability. Thanks to its forgiving characteristics, the Winegard model performs admirably on every type of RV(motorhomes, camper, cabin,…) in existence. If you want an antenna that you could handle and use with relative ease, this is the product for you.

Utilizing high-grade reflectors in addition to top tier technologies, the Winegard unit automatically searches and improves available TV signals. After you get it up and running, it would proceed to locate DISH satellite orbital locations without requiring human interactions. Therefore, there is no need to for RVers to tweak the antenna back and forth in order to lock signals.

Since antenna features a handle, RVers just have to grab on to it and move the antenna as they like. The rather humble profile of the model allows you to set it up literally anywhere you want at moment notice. Additionally, the modest profile of the unit means you don’t have to worry about space constraint while traveling around.  

Pros:

  • Fully automatic
  • Superb mobility
  • Well built and tough

Cons:

  • A bit sensitive to weather
  • Software issues are noted  

9. Winegard RS-3000 RoadStar Antenna

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Specification:

  • Dimension: 14.9 x 7.6 Inches
  • Weight: 2.7 Pounds

Why We Love It

For RVers that care about aerodynamic and fuel efficiency, it’s a good idea to check out Winegard RS-3000 RoadStar. Made to deal with challenging weather and minimize wind resistance, the Winegard unit is the best TV antenna for RV in the roof mounted category. With proper use and maintenance, the antenna would last for a lifetime on the field.  Considering these benefits, this product is a decent investment for the average full-time RVers.

As the Winegard antenna is a 360-degree model, there is no need for pointing and cranking while setting it up. Normally, the range of the unit is about 35 miles, good enough to get local channels and free digital TV programming. Because the antenna is capable of receiving channel broadcasted on VHF and UHF frequencies, you shall have lot of channels.  

Assuming that you have a couple of basic tools around, it should take 30 minutes to get the antenna in place. In the case you want to extend the range of the reception, feel free to add an RV antenna booster. Of course, take the RV layout into account so as the antenna and its booster are not obstructed in use.

Pros:

  • 360-degree reception
  • Free digital programming  
  • Endure outdoor element well

Cons:

  • The images freeze every once in a while
  • Users complain about missing components

10. 1byone Outdoor HDTV Antenna

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Specifications:

  • Dimension: 15.4 x 15.4 x 6.6 Inches
  • Weight: 4.6 Pounds

Why We Love It

Affordable, functional and simple to install, 1byone Outdoor HDTV Antenna is a nice product for people that are in need of a long range antenna. With a range of 70 miles, the 1byone units earn praises from year-round RVers as it offers a lot of channel at any given time. There is no need for a remote control here as the unit is a 360-degree model that locks on TV signal on its own initiative.

Considering the fact that it’s designed for outdoor applications, the 1byone features is waterproof and features anti-UV coating. As a result, the unit is able to tackle demanding conditions and remain intact for an extended period of time.  

Compared to other antennas on the market, this model is on the light side and so installation is a breeze. Being a tool-free unit, this antenna is highly unlikely to require too much of your precious time and effort. Since it already comes with a built-in amplifier and a mount base, the setup process should be done in a blink of an eye. 

Pros:

  • Come in a package
  • Reliable and dependable
  • Automatically lock on signals

Cons:

  • Mediocre customer service
  • Need 12V power supply  

Best RV Antenna: The Buying Guide

Generally speaking, different people would have different ideas about the best TV antenna for RV. Because of that, there is no such as the perfect antenna model for every RVer. That being said, experts and experienced RVers agree that there are issues to keep in mind while searching for the best TV antenna for RV.

1. Reception

Best TV Antenna for RV
A Guide to Finding The Best TV Antenna for RV!

As it’s designed to capture signal for the screen, the value of a TV antenna is largely decided by the strength of its reception. The stronger the reception, the more channel you are able to view and the higher the quality of the image. For people only travel on their RV a couple of times in a year, there is no absolute need for a high gain TV antenna. On the other hand, RVers that spend a lot of time on the road better get something powerful so they could watch TV without flickers.   

 2. Endurance

Although it’s widely advised that you must refrain from treating a TV antenna too roughly, you should stay away from fragile and flimsy models. 

rv tv antenna reviews

During your outdoor adventures, it’s highly likely that the antenna is going to take a couple of hits and bumps every once in awhile. Therefore, you need to purchase a product that is able to take on minor concussion and still refrain functional afterward.  Nowadays, there are 2 primary materials for antenna: plastic and aluminum. Get a good feel of the material to decide if the antenna is sufficiently tough

3. Installation

Struggling to install a complex TV antenna would likely add unnecessary stress to your RV life and you have enough things to worry about already. Hence, do yourself a favor and invest in a straightforward, hassle-free model that you could install without much difficulty. To achieve that goal, prioritize antennas that come in a package so you don’t have to make additional purchases. Furthermore, quickly glance through RV TV antenna reviews in order to see what other RVer have to say about the installation process of particular products.   

bent tv antenna

4. Profile

Space is a luxury on RVs and as a result, the best TV antenna for RV need to remain compact. Regardless of the mounting options, overly bulky antennas would cause a lot of issues to the RVers and their vehicles. So if possible, go after a model that only require a modest amount of room. That should allow you to get the most out of the space available on your RV and generally keep everything in a well-organized fashion. In addition to that, a high-quality lightweight camper TV antenna for RV facilitates adjustment, repair and maintenance as well.

5. Price

best tv antenna for rv

There is a wide selection of affordable and quality TV antennas for RV so RVers could get a solid model on a variety of budget.  Unless you have specific demands and requirements in mind, it’s generally unwise for you to push for the most expensive antenna on the shelves. That being said, the price of a product tends to reflects its value on the field and so you should avoid getting dirt cheap units. Compare multiple models with each other, see what they have to offer and decide which one is the best TV antenna for RV to you.  

Last Updated on January 1, 2024

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