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Indoor aerials

Is yours one of the 30 per cent of households in the UK today using an indoor aerial? If so, it’s most likely for a second or even third TV. But for just a few people, it will be the only way you receive a TV signal. How will switchover work for you? We have tested a wide range of indoor aerials. To see a test report select a model above.

See recommendations for the best performing indoor aerials.
See setting up for a step-by-step guide to set up

For advice on trying an indoor aerial see pros and cons . See extensions for information on other options. For what our tests involved – see test methods.

Rooftop aerial

You can’t beat a good rooftop aerial for TV reception. Rooftop aerials are also less susceptible than indoor aerials to disruption from passing traffic – indoors and outdoors, though bad weather conditions can still cause a problem.

Any rooftop aerial, in good condition, is capable of receiving both an analogue and terrestrial digital TV service like Freeview. You don't need to have a 'digital' rooftop aerial.

Use the Digital UK's website Postcode Checker to check signal stength in your area.

If you need to upgrade your aerial to get all the digital channels contact a local registered aerial installer. RDI-LB Registered Digital Installers Licensing Body) is the UK's official body for registering licensed digital aerial and TV systems installers. To be registered installers must be professionally trained, fully insured and have a clear criminal record. Use their website to find a local licensed installer www.rdi-lb.tv. Otherwise you can try the trade body Confederation of Aerial Industries (CAI).

Will a loft aerial do?
If you can’t have an aerial on the roof, you might be able to fit a big enough roof aerial in your loft. You probably won’t get such a strong signal as you will with a rooftop aerial, but it could be stronger than with an indoor one.
Surrounding houses and trees might block it and obstacles like roof tiles and that big water tank will cut back the signal. The signal strength may also be more vulnerable to weather conditions, for instance.