After a full day of driving, who wouldn’t enjoy a little bit of entertainment?.
Having a 12 volt TV is the first step, but you need a good antenna to watch something on your TV.
The TV antenna needs to be high quality to ensure a clear picture and to allow you to watch your favorite TV shows.
The things you need are a receiver, satellite service provider and a quality RV antenna.
There are so many options on the market, but here is my selection of satellite antennas.
Moreover, you can keep reading to learn more about determining factors and satellite antennas in general.
Find the pros and cons lists and my overall impression about each product!
Winegard GM-6035
The Winegard TV antenna is flexible, easy to use and my top pick.
It has a stepper motor to ensure quick channel surfing.
Also, I like that it works with Dish, DirecTV, and Bell TV.
The antenna weighs around ten pounds and is relatively easy to install.
My favorite thing – the antenna features Automatic satellite acquisition, which means you don’t have to do anything to get perfect channels.
Pros
- Works with three major satellite TV providers
- Easy to use
- Automatically adjusts the angle to receive the best signal
- Can be used on multiple TVs
Cons
- Cannot work while RV is in motion
- Only supports standard subscription – no HD
Dylan's TakeOverall, the Winegard GM-6035 Carryout G2+ antenna is reliable, works on multiple TVs with ease and deserves the winning position on my list.
However, if an HD picture is important to you, keep looking.
King VQ4500
The KING VQ4500 Tailgater is potentially the best choice if you already have a Dish subscription.
The antenna comes with a 50′ coax cable, which gives you enough portability for the best signal.
It is also a lightweight antenna, with 13.2 pounds, so you won’t have trouble carrying it around.
The antenna also comes with mounting foot hardware for rooftop installation.
Pros
- Compatible with different receiver models
- Portable and rooftop mounting enabled
- Doesn’t require an extra power source
Cons
- Stationary use only
- Limited use on multiple TVs
Dylan's TakeThe VQ4500 antenna by King is designed specifically for Dish and supports SD and HD.
It has built-in coaxial outputs and works on two TVs as long as they are on the same satellite.
Winegard SK-SWM3
The Winegard SK-SWM3 offers a strong signal for DirecTV subscribers.
It works on different satellites and ensures the best user experience, home theater quality.
The Winegard antenna is heavy, with 53 pounds, but stable.
The antenna has a low profile and is great for traveling.
If you have more TVs in your RV, don’t worry, the Winegard Sk-SWM3 has 4+ receiver capability.
Pros
- Simultaneous satellite viewing
- Extremely strong TV signal
- Multi-receiver capability
Cons
- Isn’t portable
- Stationary use only
Dylan's TakeThis Winegard antenna supports SD and HD pictures.
It even comes with a 4-way splitter for multiple receivers and can receive three signals simultaneously.
Winegard RT2035T
The Winegard RT2035T is good for you if you want in-motion entertainment.
The antenna is the smallest antenna of this type by Winegard and needs only compact roof space.
The antenna is multi-provider compatible and versatile.
However, if you have a DirecTV subscription, you’ll have a better experience with antennas specifically created for that network.
Pros
- In-motion viewing
- Small
- Compatible with different providers
Cons
- Expensive
- Only receives a signal from 1 satellite at a time
Dylan's TakeThe Winegard smallest antenna can work with two receivers.
I like the automatic satellite acquisition, so all you have to do is press the button on to make it work.
Winegard PA-1000 Playmaker
This is another excellent product by Winegard.
The model PA-1000 comes at a reasonable price and has a lot to offer.
It is better suited for Dish subscribers who don’t mind stationary use and have one TV in their RV.
The antenna delivers a stable signal, is portable and lightweight.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight and portable
- Compatible with great monthly and pay-to-go services
- Enables multiple mount options
- Stable signal
Cons
- Works only with one receiver
- Stationary use only
Dylan's TakeThis Winegard antenna offers a great deal at an affordable price.
The automatic signal acquisition works seamlessly.
Winegard SK-1000
The Winegard antenna model SK-1000 provides an excellent user experience for Dish and Bell TV subscribers.
It is suitable for people who don’t need a small and light antenna.
The antenna enables operation on multiple receivers.
Because of the low profile, it has perfect wind resistance and clearance.
Pros
- Multi-satellite viewing on multiple TVs
- Low-height
- Includes telephone support
- Works with Hopper receiver
Cons
- Stationary use only
Dylan's TakeThe model SK-1000 is heavy but comes with excellent features.
It is compatible with standard and HDTV and enables quick channel surfing.
King VQ4100
If you are DirecTV customer and you want to extend the service with an additional receiver, you can check this King antenna VQ4100.
It is lightweight and budget-friendly.
Because of it, the antenna is mobile, so you can expand the use on tailgates, backyards, etc.
However, if you want HD, you might want to skip it.
Pros
- Affordable
- Can be used as portable or mounted on the roof
- Built-in coaxial outputs for programming on the same satellite and use on multiple TVs
Cons
- Only SD
- Not compatible with SWM receivers
- Stationary use only
Dylan's TakeThe King antenna works with two receivers and features automatic satellite acquisition.
It is a simple solution for good TVs.
Winegard Pathway PATHWAY X2
The Winegard Pathway antenna works with Dish subscribers.
The antenna can work with two receivers and provide a stable signal on both TVs.
It is portable and has an easy-to-grip handle.
The antenna supports SD and HD programming.
Pros
- 100% automatic
- Superior signal acquisition
- Works in all weather condition
- Comes with an HD single-tuner receiver
- Doesn’t require a power cord
Cons
- Stationary use only
- Bulky
- Doesn’t come with a kit for roof mount
Dylan's TakeIf you are a Dish subscriber, check this antenna by Winegard.
The antenna also comes with built-in apps, such as Netflix for a better user experience.
King VQ4900
The King VQ4900 is a portable antenna with a stylish appearance.
The signal strength is exceptional.
Because of the automatic satellite acquisition, the antenna ensures you have access to lots of channels, despite your location.
Overall, it is an excellent choice for Dish customers.
Pros
- Simple setup
- Supports two receivers
- Supports SD and HD
- Can work as portable or mounted on the roof
Cons
- Stationary use only
- Works with Dish only
Dylan's TakeIf you aren’t even considering other TV providers, this antenna might be perfect for you.
Dual signal output and SD, and HD-supported programing make it a solid choice.
Dish Network 1000.2
If your budget is around $100, check this antenna out.
Don’t be fooled with a modest price tag, this antenna has a lot to offer.
You can use it as a portable or mount it on the roof.
The antenna works with three satellites and supports SD and HD channels.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to set up
- Lightweight
- Works with two tuner
Cons
- The receiver isn’t included in the price
- Potential shipping issues
Dylan's TakeYou will hardly get a better deal in terms of budget and features.
If your budget is tight, and HD programming is important to you, this might be the only antenna that works for you.
Buying Guide
Let’s discuss satellite antennas in detail, so you can understand the benefits and different aspects of it.
If none of the products from my list work for you, knowing more about satellite antennas will help you find the one for you.
Satellite TV Antennas Types
The first thing to determine is the type of satellite TV antenna.
Different factors determine which type is preferable for you.
Those are such as:
- Number of TVs
- Selected TV provider
- Portability
- In-motion use
Permanently-Fixed
A fixed satellite antenna is more common for home use.
It mounts on the RV roof and stays fixed throughout use.
Portable
On the other hand, the mobile antenna is practical for people who camp in forested sites.
A portable satellite antenna usually comes with the trip and can be easily placed on the location that ensures the best satellite reception.
Usually, you can place it a few feet away from your RV.
You can also use a Wi-Fi extender to connect to public Wi-Fi.
Portable antennas are practical and usually offer good signals, but they take storage space when you aren’t using them.
Also, you need to set them up every time you arrive at a new place and keep them safe from the weather.
Standard Dish
Concave antennas receive signals from multiple satellites at once.
It makes them great for poor weather or in areas with weak service.
Because the dish antenna is large, you need to retract it before you hit the road.
Therefore, you cannot watch TV while driving.
Dome Antennas
Dome antennas come placed in a protective fiberglass case.
They aren’t compatible with DirecTV HD satellites.
But, with a dome antenna, you don’t have to worry about the weather.
Dome antennas are best if you want in-motion entertainment.
Which Satellite Antenna to Choose?
The best way to determine which satellite antenna to choose is to consider your camping preferences.
In simple words, think about your common camping places.
If you like to watch TV in-motion, choose the antenna that captures the signal while you move.
If you want the convenience of better signal even in some rural places choose dish antenna.
Also, if you camp in forests or similar places, the rooftop antenna isn’t a good choice.
The portable unit might work better.
Dish VS DirectTV
Let’s consider the two largest satellite TV providers in the United States.
Here are some things to consider.
Number of Channels
Both providers have a similar number of channels with similar monthly rates.
Dish is more affordable and offers a voice remote with all new purchases and without extra costs.
Also, Dish offers over 8.000 on-demand movies and shows, which is enough for all your camping trips.
But, if you are a passionate sports fan, you might be better with DirecTV, because it offers NFL Sunday tickets.
DirecTV has more than 10.000 movies and shows and 40 more channels than a competitor.
Which Provider is Better for RV?
The dish is more affordable and compatible with all RV antennas.
DirecTV, on the other hand, doesn’t work with dome models.
But, it offers more channels and on-demand content in HD pictures.
Ultimately, the choice is on you, but Dish has a slight advantage because of the versatility and monthly rates.
Satellite RV Antennas – Most Common Issues
Let’s discuss the most common issues RVers can expect with satellite antennas.
Wind Resistance
The antenna needs to be stable enough to withstand heavy winds and stay stable.
Therefore, the antenna needs to be retractable if it goes on the rooftop.
Dome antennas don’t need to be foldable for travel, which makes them highly practical.
Moisture
Wet conditions can cause pixelated screens and issues with the signal.
Therefore, the antenna needs to be moisture-resistant to provide a consistent signal.
Tree Coverage
Most camping places are in areas covered with trees, so the antenna needs to be strong enough to ensure a good signal.
Additional Factors to Consider when Buying Satellite Antenna
When buying a satellite RV antenna, you need to consider a few more things before you decide.
In-Motion Viewing
Watching TV while driving is challenging, and not all antennas can ensure a quality picture in motion.
If watching TV in-motion is important to you, check if the antenna supports it.
Service Provider
Some service providers don’t work with all antennas, so check if your chosen provider works with the antenna.
For example, Dish provider works with dome and open dish antennas, while other providers might not work with portable and dome models.
Number of TVs
How many TV you have in RV?
To ensure viewing on multiple TVs, get the antenna with dual-receiver options.
However, check which antenna is good enough to provide a stable signal on both TVs.
Camping Place
Consider where you usually park.
Your common camping place determines whether the permanent, roof-mounted antenna or portable model is better for you.
If you park under the tree often, choose a portable model.
If not, you can choose other models.
Ease of Installing
Unless you’re a tech nerd, ease of installment is important.
Sometimes, you’ll have to hire professionals to install the antenna for you.
If you don’t want to spend the money on professional installments, find the antenna you know how to install yourself.
Great RV satellite antennas are straightforward to install following the instructions.
And, that is why it is useful to read reviews – to see if other people struggled with installation.
Price Tag
The budget is determining factor for most people.
Satellite antennas come in a wide price range, but you need to decide your limitations and your preferences.
That way, you will get the most for your money.
The most expensive antennas on the market include multiple satellite signal acquisition, which results in great pictures anywhere.
They are also suitable for in-viewing and compatible with multiple TVs.
Lastly, larger antennas are more durable, wind-resistant, and consistent in providing signals in different areas.
Frequently Asked Questions about Satellite Antennas
If you have more questions, feel free to ask them in the comment section below!
Can I Get Satellite TV for RV?
Buy an RV TV, receiver, satellite RV antenna, and a monthly subscription to a satellite TV provider.
In the USA you can choose between Dish, DirecTV, Orby TV.
Dish and DirecTV are more versatile and offer a wider range of channels, while Orby TV is the most affordable.
Can you Use Satellite Dish on RV?
Standard residential satellite antenna won’t work on RV.
You need to find the one specifically created for vehicles which often change coordinates because they scan the sky for satellite signal continuously.
What RV Satellite Antenna is the Best?
The Winegard GM-6035 TV antenna gives you much-needed freedom in choosing TV providers, expecting excellent pictures and lots of channels.
Other great choices are KingVQ models.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best satellite antennas on the market for RV.
I understand that choosing only one can be an issue.
Check my selection, compare it with my buying tips and search for more reviews to get a full image of the product.
I hope you find this guide helpful!
Please let me know what you think about my selection of the best satellite TV antennas for motorhomes!
Best Overall Choice
Winegard GM-6035
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