The right antenna could give you dozens of channels for free

Ready to watch TV for free? Go purchase an antenna.

The right antenna can give you plenty to watch without cable or streaming, including WRAL-TV and WRAZ-TV.

“A couple of years ago, when there was a major storm and the cable went out in town for a couple of days, if you had an antenna you could still watch TV,” said homeowner Chris Patterson.

Consumer Reports experts recently did testing to figure out which antennas were best. Experts checked different antennas in the city and the suburbs.

New antenna makes WRAL's TV signal stronger

"Most models were able to receive dozens of free over-the-air channels,” said Consumer Reports tech editor Jim Wilcox.

One antenna that did particularly well was the Winegard FlatWave Amped FL5500A for $60. The antenna was very thin and could be mounted on a wall or window.

Consumer Reports also has good news for bargain shoppers.

“Our tests found little correlation between price and performance,” said Wilcox.

The $15 budget model form Naxa NAA-308 takes it old school with rabbit ears and a loop design, but Wilcox said it does the job.

Keep in mind that where the antenna is placed can impact the number of channels. Consumer Reports suggests placing the antenna as high as possible and preferably by a window.

Plenty of free TV channels to watch

Also, what's around a home - such as buildings or trees - can impact reception.

Consumer Reports adds that people might need to try several models before finding the right one for their space, so be sure to shop where a free return or exchange is allowed.

Finally, be sure to re-scan channels every month or so. You might pick up new stations you couldn't get earlier.