Watching live sports without subscriptions is doable with an over-the-air (OTA) TV antenna. The right antenna setup can bring you action from the NFL, NBA, MLB, college sports, and more. TV Antennas let you watch your teams without a monthly streaming bill. Solid Signal has the selection of antennas you need to watch live sports. Here's how to choose the perfect antenna for you.
Why Choose an OTA Antenna for Sports?
OTA antennas allow you to capture free HD broadcasts from major networks like CBS, NBC, Fox, and ABC. These channels often air NFL games, major college football matchups, and more. Some major sports networks are beginning to air their games on local OTA channels. Antenna signal quality is often better than streaming. Along with a better picture, there is minimal lag and no need for internet with an OTA TV antenna.
Step 1: Understanding the Types of Antennas
Indoor Antennas
Indoor Antennas are ideal for areas close to broadcast towers (within 25-40 miles) and are easy to set up. They're best used in urban and suburban areas with strong signal strength. Indoor antennas have a compact design that makes adjusting them an easy task. Indoor models can experience interference from walls, electronic devices, and building materials. These can impact the signal quality for weaker signal channels. Generally indoor antennas will provide good channel coverage when they are set up correctly. There are plenty of options to blend into your indoor space. Most units are compact, and some are paper-thin and can wall-mounted. Indoor antennas are a lower cost option but will provide access to fewer channels. Choose an indoor antenna if:
- • You live in a city or suburb close to broadcast towers.
- • Check here for signals in your area.
- • You want an easy-to-use, affordable option.
- • You don't need access to channels over long distances.
Outdoor Antennas
Outdoor Antennas provide stronger reception capturing signals from 50+ miles away. They are best suited for rural areas or places with obstructions like hills or buildings. These units can be mounted on the roof, side of a home, or on a mast to maximize line-of-sight to broadcast towers. Outdoor antennas provide superior reception with reduced interference. They have an increased ability to capture signals that are further away. Outdoor units are usually larger and more visible. These units are more expensive due to installation equipment and weather resistance materials. Outdoor antennas use weather-resistant materials to withstand rain, snow, wind, and sun exposure. This ensures they remain effective in various weather conditions. Consider an outdoor antenna if:
- • You live in a rural area or need long-range reception.
- • You want more reliable signal quality and access to a wider range of channels.
- • You’re comfortable with a more involved installation process.
Step 2: How Far Are You from Broadcast Towers?
Your distance from local broadcast towers will impact your antenna choice:
- • Close Range(within 20-30 miles):
- • An indoor antenna will be able to pick up signals in this range without any issues. Suggested Product: Winegard FlatWave Amped Indoor HDTV Antenna (FL-5500A).
- • Moderate Range (30-50 miles):
- • A more powerful indoor antenna or a compact outdoor antenna is recommended. Suggested Product: Mohu Leaf 50 Amplified Indoor HDTV Antenna with In-Line Amplifier
- • Long Range (50+ miles):
- • An outdoor antenna is likely necessary. These units receive further signals and are easier to place for optimal reception. Suggested Product: Xtreme Signal Long Range HD VHF UHF FM Outdoor TV Antenna (HD8200XL)
Step 3: Consider the Frequency Bands – UHF and VHF
Channels can broadcast in UHF (Ultra High Frequency) or VHF (Very High Frequency) bands. Sports broadcasts can use either UHF or VHF. Ensure that you are able to watch your teams by getting antenna optimized for both. Many of our indoor antennas are dual-band, allowing you to receive both UHF and VHF signals. Check out our outdoor antennas, where most units are designed for both bands.
Step 4: Amplified vs. Non-Amplified Antennas
- • Non-Amplified units are best for areas with strong signals. They avoid amplifying potential noise or interference picked up from other local signals.
- • Amplified Antennas boost weaker signals, and are helpful if you’re in a moderate to weak signal area. They can be either indoor or outdoor models
Step 5: Choosing Between Directional and Omnidirectional Antennas
- • Directional Antennas focus on reception in one direction only. They are ideal if all broadcast towers are in the same location or direction. Suggested Product: Xtreme Signal 70 Mile VHF/UHF Yagi Outdoor TV Antenna (HDB91X)offers powerful directional reception, perfect for rural areas.
- • Omidirectional Antennas receive signals from all directions. Omnidirectional units are useful if broadcast towers are in different locations and directions. Suggested Product: Winegard Elite 360 Omnidirectional Outdoor HDTV Antenna (MS-6000) is a robust option if you need reception from multiple directions.
Step 6: Placement Tips for Optimal Sports Viewing
Once you’ve selected your antenna, placement is key.
- • Indoor Antennas: Position near a window facing broadcast towers, and elevate it to reduce interference.
- • Outdoor Antennas: 1. Mount in a high location, like the roof or side of the house, to avoid obstructions. Our antenna mounting supplies can help you get it right the first time.
Final Thoughts: Watching Sports with an Antenna
Enjoy high-quality sports broadcasts from local stations for free with an OTA antenna. Whether you choose an indoor or outdoor antenna, Solid Signal has a wide selection to meet your needs. Shop our indoor antennas and outdoor antennas to find the perfect one for you!
If you are still having trouble deciding, our experts are an email away. Please email us at info@solidsignal.com. for personalized advice!