Best TV Antenna Amplifier in 2020
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With all the options out there for watching TV and movies these days, it’s becoming all too common that people are making the switch from expensive cable TV to no cost digital TV. This means unplugging from cable and relying on the TV signals being broadcast over the airwaves to consume all that free entertainment.
But, what if you’ve gone the OTA route and found your antenna alone isn’t enough to grab all those free digital signals? What if your channels are coming through pixelated, or worse, not at all? Perhaps you’re in a situation where the device can’t be placed near windows, or you’re in an area with a weak signal in general. Fortunately for you, this is where TV Antenna Amplifiers come into play.
To help you better determine the best amplifier for you- and the best amp for your wallet- let’s explore the top models and their features, shall we?
TL;DR - 10 TV Antenna Amplifiers :
- Channel Master CM3414 Antenna Signal Amplifier
- Antennas Direct 8-Port TV Distribution Amplifier
- ANTOP Smartpass Amplifier TV Signal Booster
- Winegard LNA-200 Boost TV Antenna Amplifier
- Antennas Direct TV Distribution Amplifier
- Skywalker Signature Series SKY38323 25dB Amplifier
- ANTRONIX MRA Series TV RF Broadband Amplifier
- RadioShack Inline Antenna Signal Amplifier
- EEEKit HDTV Antenna Amplifier Signal Booster
- Antop HDTV Antenna Amplifier Signal Booster
1. Channel Master CM3414 Antenna Signal Amplifier
Channel Master is recognized as one of the top manufacturers of antenna and antenna accessories and has been in the cable telecommunications game for a while. If you're looking for a good, basic amplifier, the Channel Master 3414 may be the answer for you.
The CM3414 can be connected to up to four TVs, but Channel Master also offers 1-, 2- and 8- port options in their CM model lineup. It can be installed indoors or used with an outdoor antenna. Corrosion resistant exterior allows the device to withstand all four seasons.
2. Antennas Direct 8-Port TV Distribution Amplifier
Do you have a larger household with multiple TVs, but Channel Master isn't your brand? Then the Antennas Direct CDA8 is a great way to get better signal quality to more (if not all) of your TVs, cable boxes, and even modems. This device features weatherproof housing for outdoor installation.
The unit also features an indicator light to let you know in a glance whether the device is receiving power. Backed by a 1 Year Warranty and highly rated customer support, you can rest assured that your money is well spent with this quality booster.
3. ANTOP Smartpass Amplifier TV Signal Booster
If you're looking to improve your signal strength on the cheap, the AT-601B is where it's at! At under $20, this unit installs in a snap to deliver a great picture for a low cost. Part of ANTOP’s Smartpass series of amplifiers, the AT-601B features adjustable signal improvement. Smart Switch can be turned on to boost weaker signals and off to prevent overamplification, allowing you greater control over your signal quality.
One drawback may be that its frequency range caps out at about 700MHz, so if you're already battling weak signal strength, and you know there are plenty of good, free channels where you live, you may want to consider whether this indoor unit will be sensitive enough to get those channels
4. Winegard LNA-200 Boost TV Antenna Amplifier
The Winegard LNA-200 Boost XT is like a new, beefed up version of the well-loved LNA-100. The TwinAmp Technology feature of this outdoor antenna booster allows the device to increase VHF and UHF signals independently. The Boost Clear Circuit Technology offers more range at a reduced noise level to deliver more channels, a crisp HDTV picture and better overall performance than its predecessor.
5. Antennas Direct TV Distribution Amplifier
Antennas Direct was started just 20 years ago and has been going strong ever since. They have a bit of a passion for helping people understand their options when it comes to cutting the cord. They specialize more in antennas (hence the name), however they do offer select models of amplification devices.
For a consistently clearer picture quality for up to four indoor TVs or converter boxes, the CDA4 HDTV Amplifier is one of Antennas Direct's finest options. This signal booster can also be installed outside with the addition of a watertight F-connector (not included).
6. Skywalker Signature Series SKY38323 25dB Amplifier
The Skywalker Communications brand manufactures a wide range of AV products, not just signal boosters. Though they provide little information about their shining star, the SKY38323, one thing is clear: The reception you will get on your TV.
This unit comes equipped with a power indicator light, and features a variable gain option, which allows you to adjust the reception strength as you need.
7. ANTRONIX MRA Series TV RF Broadband Amplifier
With a 5 Year warranty, the Antronix MRA4 may be the solution for you if you're wanting a device that's easy to install... and just as easy to forget about.
Until the unit needs to be eventually replaced, of course. But imagine having 5 years of piece of mind, knowing that you won't have to worry about the reception of your TV antennas again for a while.
8. RadioShack Inline Antenna Signal Amplifier
So you might be thinking, "Radio Shack? I thought they went out of business?!" Well, despite having drastically reduced the number of their brick-and-mortar stores across the US some years back, Radio Shack has managed to maintain a somewhat strong online presence.
Leave it to Radio Shack to create a simple unit that offers only the important features. Their device, aptly named "Inline Antenna Signal Amplifier", is a no-frills, straightforward antenna booster to improve the signal quality of just about any TV antenna. This is an indoor only model, but installation is a breeze.
9. EEEKit HDTV Antenna Amplifier Signal Booster
EEEKit may not be a well known name in the TV antennas and accessories realm, but their HDTV Antenna Amplifier sure has got fans buzzing. Within minutes, the EEEKit HDTV booster can get you the clearer channels you need, and more of them!
This signal enhancer can help make up for the shortcomings of the antenna delivering those OTA channels to your home, with a generous gain and low noise level. USB power and AC/DC adapter also give you more flexibility in where you can install this indoor HDTV amplifier.
10. Antop HDTV Antenna Amplifier Signal Booster
Last, but not least on our list, is the ANTOP AT-601W Antenna Amplifier. Like the AT-601B, this HDTV antenna booster is one of the least expensive antenna amplifiers on the market. This model takes all the great features you need from the AT-601B and builds upon them to bring you an even better antenna amplification device.
Reviews suggest the device is quickly and easily connected to your antenna and TV or converter box. The option to use USB power, or an AC/DC adapter allows you more choice when selecting a location for installation. Even a feeble ol’ Grandma could hook it up within minutes (...no offense, Grandma)!
TV Antenna Amplifiers Buyer’s Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best antenna for free TV?
Need a good antenna? We researched the best antennas for grabbing those free HDTV channels out of the air, too! Read our guide to Outdoor antennas here. For indoor options, see this article.
How can I boost my digital TV signal?
Connecting a TV antenna amplifier to your existing antenna or converter box can significantly improve your signal strength and usually adds more channels. Look for one with specs to match your antenna type and available power sources, as well as increases more of the signals that are weaker in your specific area.
What is the best outdoor TV antenna amplifier?
Of all the antenna amplifiers we researched, we chose the PCT MA2-8PN as the best device to enhance an outdoor TV antenna because of its overall good value, combined with performance. Though it is one of the most expensive boosters on our list, it offers excellent surge protection, compact design, and durable housing that can withstand some pretty extreme temps. PCT is also an established brand, so you can reasonably expect to get a good number of years (and channels) out of this device.
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