Looking for the best TV signal booster? You’re in the right place. In fact, if your on-air TV broadcast reception is weak, a signal booster is about to be your new best friend.
The one unfortunate thing about needing a booster is the sheer volume of products on the market.
Because you can’t tell functional from phony at a glance, many people end up with not-so-decorative junk instead of an operational antenna booster.
In this article, we’re going to cover 5 of the best signal boosters available. We’ll also discuss the pros, cons, and what to look for in a winning device.
Remember – the best TV antenna booster is easy to install, reliable, and usually has a respectable warranty.
1. Digital TV Outdoor Antenna Aerial TV Signal Booster (Top Pick)
Perfect for Australian digital television, this antenna booster is installed outdoors. To withstand the elements, it’s UV-resistant, waterproof, and durable.
Because this unit can be used in most areas, it’s a good option for those in rural settings with notoriously poor signals.
If you live in an area prone to extreme weather, this is a safe choice. It’s one of the most sturdy, and it’s suited to the unpredictability of the elements.
This package comes complete with one TV amplified antenna, one coaxial cable, and one user’s manual. For your convenience, it’s relatively simple to install and consistent with its stable performance.
Overall, this is one of the best TV antenna boosters on the market today.
What We Like:
- Waterproof
- UV-resistant
- Great picture quality
- Easy installation
What We Don’t Like:
- Outdoor installation can be a bit more tricky
2. Crest Masthead Digital TV Signal Amplifier
This Masthead amplifier comes with waterproof housing for its external unit. Although it won’t function if you have zero reception, this is an excellent option for those who need help with a weak or poor signal.
One thing that makes this amplifier stand out is its high output capacity and low noise.
The noise figure of this device is less than 3dB, and it allows you to achieve up to 30dB gain. It includes two TV antenna outputs (F-type) and SMD surface-mount design.
If you’re relatively handy, this amplifier should be no trouble to install. It’s effective at improving signal even in tricky rural areas, including the mountains.
Weatherproof casing helps it stand up to the elements and maintain optimal reliability.
What We Like:
- Weatherproof casing
- Internal control box included
- Two TV outputs
- High output capacity
- Low noise
What We Don’t Like:
- Pricey
3. Kingray SA164F 4-Way Antenna Splitter TV Signal Amplifier
Kingray is Australian owned and operated and produces this exceptional antenna splitter and signal amplifier.
Many people have questions while installing these devices, so it’s encouraging to know this product comes with specialist support and advice at no extra cost.
Designed specifically for digital terrestrial environments, this is one of the top amplifiers available today. It boasts a low noise figure, high return loss, and a high output level.
If you need to improve your signal strength, this is one of the most efficient amplifiers around.
It’s designed with a single input and four outputs, so this model is intended for those individuals who have sufficient signal for one outlet but not enough for four
What We Like:
- Specialist support
- High output level
- Low noise
- Australian owned and operated
What We Don’t Like:
- Won’t work if you have zero signal
4. Crest Indoor Antenna Signal Amplifier
This is an affordable signal amplifier that’s meant to be installed and used indoors. It has a gain of 36dB and the noise figure is <4dB.
It includes one input and two outputs. If you need to extend the range and improve the signal quality of your non-amplified digital HDTV antenna, this is an excellent choice.
This device supports VHF/UHF and FM frequencies. While the previous model had 10-25dB gain, this newer version has gain of 15-30dB.
The small nature of this amplifier makes it an easy-to-conceal space-saver. It’s easy to install and easy to use. Best yet, this antenna signal amplifier comes with a 5-year warranty.
What We Like:
- Variable gain dial
- Two antenna output connections
- 5 year warranty
- Compact indoor TV antenna amplifier
What We Don’t Like:
- Not recommended for black and white sets
5. Amp Master 14dB 2 Way TV Signal Booster
This 2-way signal booster is another model that’s designed for indoor use. Its compact size makes it easy to conceal and attach.
For easy installation, connect the antenna lead directly to the booster. As with all good signal amplifiers, this device delivers consistent performance and has superior functionality.
Before upgrading to a new TV antenna, which may not be necessary, give a product like this a try.
It’s a more affordable option than a brand new antenna or even a masthead booster.
Because there’s always a chance a TV antenna booster may not solve your issue, many amplifiers include a money-back guarantee.
This device has a 30-day guarantee so you can purchase with confidence and return it after use if it’s not what you need.
What We Like:
- Easy to install
- Supplies good strength even for two television sets
- Affordable
- 30 day 100% satisfaction guarantee
What We Don’t Like:
- Pricey
TV Signal Booster Buyer’s Guide
After taking a look at some of the most reliable, high-quality antenna boosters, you need to know which is the best for your circumstance.
There are a few more items to consider before finalizing your decision.
Let’s take a look at gain, noise levels, manufacture warranties, and some of the most frequently asked questions.
Noise Levels
One reason shopping for these devices can be a challenge is that you have to know what you’re looking for. Not every booster is going to meet your specific needs.
A key factor to consider is the product’s noise level. A low level is indicative of superior signal amplification.
As a general rule, look for an item with noise levels around 2dB. Once you get into products with 4-6dB, you’re getting too high and won’t be pleased with the results.
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Gain
Although it can be confusing at first, choosing the correct gain is also a necessary part of shopping for a signal amplifier. You want to look for a gain that’s higher or equal to your current signal loss. For example, a signal loss of 8dB calls for a gain of at least 8dB, likely more.
The reason this feature is tricky is that you don’t want to go too high with your gain. While instinct might tell us to go as high as possible, there is such a thing as overdoing it. It’s all about finding the right balance. If gain is too high, the signal will be amplified to excess.
Warranty
Besides reviewing the technical aspects of a product, take a look at what kind of warranty the manufacturer is willing to extend. Naturally, you want to look for a company that stands by the durability and reliability of their product. They should guarantee satisfaction and display confidence in their product. One way they can do this is by offering a decent warranty.
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Benefits Of An Antenna Booster
You know the cause of your TV reception issues; now you need a solution. To get the best television reception possible, even in spotty or rural areas, you can use one of these devices to amplify, boost, and support your antenna. With your new booster, you can build on the set and tv antenna you currently have to achieve the best signal strength possible.
The right antenna booster lives up to its promise: to improve your signal. With easy installation, reasonable pricing, and consistent results, a good booster is a little thing that makes a big improvement. If you’re living in a rural area or have poor signal, these devices were designed with your fuzzy television and your struggling antenna in mind.
Antenna Booster FAQs
Absolutely. Antenna signal boosters do not require the involvement of a professional. Most models are user-friendly, easy to set up, and come with clear instructions. Even if you aren’t particularly handy, a signal booster should be a breeze to install. One of the advantages of most home-installed boosters is that professional support is just a phone call away.
Boosters are proven to work. If you’ve been burned by a booster, don’t let that cause you to question their legitimacy as a product. There are plenty of quality, reliable devices that can cause your television and your antenna to live up to their potential.
If you’re looking to improve signal strength, you’re probably on the hunt for the best TV antenna booster. There are quite a few that work dependably and effectively and provide excellent support for the TV antenna you already have. All of the products listed above have a trusted track record for improving TV reception and antenna functionality. However, our top choice is the OZSTOCK digital television outdoor antenna.
Your antenna booster will come with a power supply. This power may be in the form of a USB power supply, or a coax power injector. The good news is, if you’re getting power through USB and the cable becomes damaged, you can easily replace it.
If your amplifier uses a coaxial connection, it’s a “power injector.” A power injector is a device that puts power on the same cable as the signal. Unfortunately, finding one of these sold separately is more of a challenge than locating a USB cord.
