Don't fall for this digital TV antenna myth

image via Engadget

August 29, 2026, 3:30 PM

• •The article says indoor digital TV antennas advertised with ranges of 150, 5,000 or 6,000 miles are making unrealistic claims.
• •It explains that over-the-air TV reception is constrained mainly by line of sight, Earth curvature, terrain, buildings and trees.
• •The piece notes that indoor antennas may work close to transmitters, while outdoor antennas mounted higher generally improve reception.
• •Amplified antennas can help compensate for some signal loss, but they cannot overcome excessive distance or blocked paths.
• •The article recommends checking FCC reception maps or local station guidance before buying an antenna and being skeptical of mileage marketing.

The article argues that advertised range claims for digital TV antennas are often misleading and physically impossible. It explains that over-the-air TV reception depends on line of sight, Earth curvature, terrain and nearby obstacles rather than a simple mileage figure. The piece says indoor antennas usually work best near transmitters, while outdoor antennas mounted high can extend practical reception distance. It advises shoppers to consult FCC reception maps, consider their local environment and ignore exaggerated marketing promises.

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