Free TV without cable or satellite

Not everyone needs a premium satellite HD package with thousands of channels to get the most out of their TV watching experience. The most popular shows on television tend to be on the basic cable channels and sometimes even that is too much for people. Whether TV is less of a passion and more your background noise of choice, or if it's just not in your budget to constantly pay for 50+ channels that you don't even watch, having a good indoor TV antenna is the best way to get the most out of your TV watching without breaking the bank with a monthly payment.

What is an Indoor TV Antenna?

Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor TV antennas don't sit on the roof to get signals. Rather, they sit atop the TV (or any other high area) and do the same work of catching airwaves to bring basic primetime networks to the television screen without a cable subscription.

When saying "indoor TV antenna, " many people probably think of the old "rabbit ears" design that looks like two metal sticks coming out of a base to catch signals, but modern day antennas don't necessarily look like that. They come in more compact, convenient options now, looking like flat boxes that can rest on flat surfaces up high to get the best possible signal. Antennas can receive UHF (ultra high frequency) or VHF (very high frequency) signals, and it's usually best to get one that receives both, but depending on your area you might be able to get by with an antenna that only handles one type.

One of the most important things to remember when buying an antenna like the ones in this article is that performance of any product will depend on your individual location. Some people are closer to transmitters than others, and some people might have certain things blocking signal coming from a certain direction that others don't have. It's a good idea to do research on antennas that have worked well in your area before finalizing your purchase.

Mohu Leaf Antenna

The Mohu Leaf, one of the best rated TV antennas on Consumer Search, is a super convenient model capable of picking up both UHF and VHF signals, though specializing in the former. If the signal is not strong enough, there is an amplified version of the product but be sure to check the quality of the regular version before you go upgrading, as the amplified signal could actually make reception worse for those in areas that don't need the extra power. This antenna is incredibly thin which helps it blend into the background easily and is black on one side and white on the other, giving you multiple options to match the style of the room.

Moreso than many other indoor antenna options, the Mohu Leaf is not terribly dependent on its position in the room to get good signal because of its omnidirectional capabilities. While there is no question about the quality signal the Mohu Leaf provides, some customers have questioned whether this slightly pricier option is the only way to get such consistent results when other models seem to perform just as well. Still, the extra money is worth the promised effectiveness of this product.

Terk HDTVa Antenna

The Terk HDTVa is a great option for anyone that needs an antenna that gets plenty of distance. Another Consumer Search favorite, this antenna can be used from up to 45 miles from transmitters and is recommended for those who live farther away rather than those who live close to them. UHF and VHF signals can be picked up by the Terk HDTVa as long as it is facing in the correct direction.

Reviews claim this antenna is very particular about the way it's facing, meaning if your signals come from different directions, you will have to move this product to the direction you need, but the quality displayed is worth the extra effort. This is the amplified version of this product, so if you still need a directional antenna but have strong signal in your area, feel free to get the Terk HDTVi version of this product.

• HBO without cable or satellite
• ESPN without cable or satellite
• TV Without cable or satellite