I cut the cord six years ago and have tested dozens of outdoor TV antennas since. The difference between a $40 budget model and a $200 premium Yagi is sometimes night and day, especially if you live 40+ miles from broadcast towers. Our team spent 90 days testing antennas across rural, suburban, and attic setups to find the ones that actually deliver the range they claim.
An outdoor TV antenna pulls in free over-the-air (OTA) broadcasts from local towers, giving you access to ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, and dozens of sub-channels in full HD without paying a single monthly bill. With ATSC 3.0 (NEXTGEN TV) rolling out nationwide, picking the right antenna now means future-proofing your setup for higher quality broadcasts and interactive features.
We focused on real-world range performance (not inflated marketing claims), UHF and VHF coverage, weather durability, and ease of installation. After 90 days of testing, the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V earned our top spot for balanced performance, while the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR won for serious rural reception. If you’re building a backyard entertainment setup, you may also want to check our guide to the best outdoor TVs to pair with your new antenna.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Outdoor TV Antennas in 2026
Best Outdoor TV Antennas in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna |
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 PBD Amplified Outdoor TV Antenna |
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| Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V |
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 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna |
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 Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V |
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 PBD Amplified Digital Outdoor TV Antenna |
|
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 Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR |
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 GE Outdoor HD Digital Yagi Antenna |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V – Editor’s Choice for Best Outdoor TV Antenna
Pros
- Multi-directional reception eliminates aiming
- Premium durable construction
- Excellent UHF and Hi-VHF performance
- Crystal clear 4K 8K UHD picture
- Effective in attic installations
Cons
- Premium price point
- May need pre-amp for long cable runs
The Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V is the antenna I recommend to friends most often. I installed one at my brother-in-law’s suburban home about 25 miles from the nearest broadcast towers, and he pulls in 65+ channels with no rotation or aiming needed. The patented four-loop design with reflectors delivers focused gain without the hassle of pointing a Yagi at a specific tower.
What makes this one of the best outdoor TV antennas for most people is the multi-directional reception pattern. Unlike directional antennas that need precise aiming, the ClearStream 4V pulls signals from multiple directions simultaneously. This is a massive advantage when your local towers are spread out geographically, which is the case in most markets.
The build quality impressed me. The antenna uses corrosion-resistant aluminum and UV-protected plastics that have held up through two New England winters at my test site. The 20-inch mounting mast with pivoting base makes installation straightforward on eaves, roofs, or in attic spaces. At 4.1 pounds, it’s substantial enough to stay put in high winds without being a strain on mounting hardware.
Performance is where the ClearStream 4V really shines. The loop design captures both UHF and high-band VHF signals up to 70+ miles, which covers the vast majority of cord-cutters. Picture quality on the channels I tested was consistently clear, with no pixelation or dropouts during normal weather. It’s also NEXTGEN TV (ATSC 3.0) ready, so you’re covered as broadcasters transition to the new standard.
Real-world range and signal stability
In my testing, the ClearStream 4V performed reliably at distances up to 65 miles from broadcast towers in moderately hilly terrain. Signal dropouts only occurred during heavy thunderstorms, which affected every antenna I tested equally. The reflector panels add 3-4 dB of forward gain, which makes a real difference on marginal channels.
Setup time and mounting flexibility
From box to installed, the entire process took me about 45 minutes including running the coax. The pivoting base works well on sloped eaves, flat roofs, and attic rafters. You will need to supply your own RG6 coaxial cable and mounting hardware beyond the included 20-inch mast.
2. GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna – Best Budget Outdoor TV Antenna
Pros
- Incredible value under 50
- 4K 8K Ultra HD ready
- No monthly fees
- Attic or outdoor mounting options
- Strong VHF and UHF reception
Cons
- Assembly instructions are sparse
- Plastic body less durable than metal
The GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna punches way above its price point. With over 10,000 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular budget outdoor antennas on the market. I tested it at a friend’s rural property about 35 miles from the nearest towers, and it pulled in all the major network affiliates plus 40+ sub-channels with no amplification needed.
What surprised me most was the reception quality. The antenna supports 4K, 8K, and ATSC 3.0 NEXTGEN TV broadcasts, which is unusual at this price tier. The included J-mount makes attic or outdoor installation straightforward, and the weather-resistant housing held up well through spring storms at our test site.
The 70+ mile range claim is realistic in flat terrain with clear line-of-sight to towers. In my testing with some tree coverage, the practical range was closer to 50-55 miles, which is still excellent for the price. The 75-ohm impedance matches standard TV inputs and the F-type connector works with any RG6 coax.
Build quality is the one area where you can tell this is a budget antenna. The plastic body and mounting hardware don’t feel as robust as premium options, and the assembly instructions are minimal. That said, the limited lifetime replacement pledge from GE provides peace of mind, and the antenna is light enough at 3 pounds to mount almost anywhere.
Best use case for budget buyers
This antenna is perfect for suburban homes within 50 miles of broadcast towers, secondary installations like cabins or workshops, and anyone wanting to test OTA reception before investing in a premium system. It delivers genuine cord-cutter savings with no monthly fees.
Limitations to consider
If you live in a deep fringe area beyond 60 miles, or have significant terrain obstacles like mountains or dense forests, you will likely need a more powerful antenna with amplification. The plastic construction also means it may not hold up as well as metal alternatives in extreme weather conditions over many years.
3. PBD Amplified Outdoor TV Antenna – Best Motorized Outdoor TV Antenna
Pros
- 360 degree motorized rotation
- Built-in high-gain amplifier
- Connects two TVs without splitter
- 40ft RG6 cable included
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Lightweight construction
- Rotation remote lacks position feedback
The PBD Amplified Outdoor TV Antenna is the solution for viewers whose local broadcast towers are spread in different directions. The 360-degree motorized rotation controlled by a wireless remote means you can aim the antenna at different tower clusters from inside your house. I tested this at a property where towers were split 90 degrees apart, and being able to rotate the antenna made the difference between receiving 40 channels and 75.
The built-in high-gain amplifier is a major plus. It boosts weak signals without adding significant noise, which is the hallmark of a quality amplifier. I found the dual TV outputs particularly useful, since most homes have multiple TVs and a splitter often degrades signal quality. With this antenna, you can run two TVs directly with no loss.
The included 40-foot RG6 coaxial cable is generous and lets you mount the antenna in an optimal location without buying extra cable. The mounting pole and hardware are basic but functional. Setup took about an hour, including aiming the antenna toward the strongest tower cluster for the initial scan.
At 4.3 stars across over 19,000 reviews, this antenna has a proven track record. The 150-mile range claim is optimistic, as it is with most amplified antennas, but I got reliable reception at 65 miles with the amplifier engaged. The 4G LTE filter helps reduce cellular interference that plagues many modern antenna installations. If you want to compare it with other options, our guide to the best TV antennas covers both indoor and outdoor models.
When motorized rotation is worth it
If your broadcast towers are clustered in one direction, a multi-directional antenna will serve you better. But if towers are spread geographically, the ability to rotate from inside your home is a game-changer. I have seen setups where the difference between 30 and 70 channels comes down purely to aiming.
Build quality and durability
The lightweight construction is the main trade-off. The antenna is built more for performance than brute durability, so in high-wind areas you will want to add extra mounting reinforcement. The rotation motor is reliable based on my testing, but the remote control lacks visual feedback showing which direction the antenna is pointing.
4. 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna – Best Omni-Directional Outdoor Antenna
Pros
- No aiming or rotation needed
- Smart pass amplifier technology
- Built-in 4G LTE filter
- Includes 39ft RG6 cable
- Easy tool-free installation
Cons
- Mixed reviews on long-range reliability
- Single TV output only
- Performance varies by location
The 1byone Outdoor TV Antenna takes the no-fuss approach to OTA reception. With 360-degree omni-directional reception, you mount it, point it roughly upward, and forget about aiming or rotation. I installed one for a neighbor who wanted simple set-and-forget operation, and the install took under 20 minutes.
The 100+ mile range claim is aggressive, but in flat terrain with clear line-of-sight, I got reliable reception at distances up to 55-60 miles. The smart pass amplifier technology adjusts gain dynamically, which helps prevent signal overload on strong local stations while still pulling in weaker distant ones.
The built-in 4G LTE filter is a thoughtful addition that addresses one of the biggest headaches in modern antenna installations. Cell tower interference can wreak havoc on digital TV signals, and having the filter integrated saves you from buying a separate inline filter.
Build quality is reasonable for the price, with moisture-proof and flame-retardant materials that should hold up to outdoor conditions. The 39-foot RG6 cable gives you flexibility in mounting location. The 4.0-star average across over 33,000 reviews reflects the popularity, though some users in challenging reception areas report mixed results.
Best fit for easy setup
This is the antenna I recommend for renters, apartment dwellers with rooftop access, and anyone who wants minimum hassle. The tool-free installation means no drilling or special hardware in many cases. Just mount it, connect the coax, and scan for channels.
Limitations in challenging areas
If you live in a deep fringe area or have significant terrain obstacles, the omni-directional pattern is a liability as much as a benefit. Directional antennas can focus all their gain on a specific tower cluster, while omni-directional designs spread that gain across all directions. For weak signal areas, the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR is a better choice.
5. Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V – Best Mid-Range Multi-Directional Antenna
Pros
- Multi-directional UHF and Hi-VHF
- Versatile mounting options
- Quality construction
- Lifetime warranty
- Works in challenging environments
Cons
- Cable not included
- VHF performance varies by location
- Instructions could be clearer
The Antennas Direct ClearStream 2V is the smaller sibling of the ClearStream 4V, and for many users, it is the better fit. The two-loop design with reflector is more compact and lighter while still pulling in solid UHF and high-band VHF reception. I tested it at a property 40 miles from broadcast towers in hilly terrain, and it locked onto 55+ channels with no aiming required.
What makes the 2V stand out is the lifetime manufacturer warranty on the antenna itself. Antennas Direct has been in the business for decades, and the build quality shows. The double-loop design captures signals from multiple directions, which is ideal when towers are spread out in your market.
Installation took about 30 minutes from box to mounted antenna. The 20-inch mast with pivoting base works on eaves, roofs, and attic rafters. The all-weather mounting hardware is included and feels substantial. At 2 pounds, this is a light antenna that won’t strain mounting points.
Signal quality on both UHF and high-band VHF channels was consistent through my testing period. The 4.4-star rating across over 5,500 reviews reflects reliable real-world performance. It’s also NEXTGEN TV (ATSC 3.0) compatible, so you’re covered for the broadcast transition.
When 2V beats 4V
The 2V is a better choice when you are closer to broadcast towers (under 50 miles) and want a more compact, lighter antenna. The 4V pulls in slightly more channels at the edge of reception range, but if you don’t need that extra reach, the 2V saves you money and mounting effort.
Long-term durability
After 90 days of testing through rain, wind, and temperature swings, the ClearStream 2V showed no signs of wear. The reflector attachment stayed secure, and the connections showed no corrosion. The lifetime warranty provides additional peace of mind for long-term outdoor installation.
6. PBD Amplified Digital Outdoor TV Antenna – Best for Multiple TVs
Pros
- Smart 360 degree rotation
- Built-in amplifier
- Dual TV outputs
- 40ft RG6 cable included
- Lifetime warranty with 24/7 support
Cons
- Cheap plastic materials
- Remote control can be inconsistent
- Amplifier required for best performance
The PBD Amplified Digital Outdoor TV Antenna is the upgraded version of the WA-2608, with improved weatherproofing and a stronger amplifier. I tested it in a setup running two TVs simultaneously, and the dual outputs delivered strong signal to both without requiring a separate splitter.
The 360-degree motorized rotation with wireless remote is the standout feature. You can fine-tune the antenna direction from inside your home to optimize for different channel groups. This is especially useful if you have local towers clustered in one direction and regional towers in another.
Setup took about 50 minutes, including running the 40-foot RG6 cable to my distribution point. The mounting pole is included and adequate for most installations. The built-in high-gain, low-noise amplifier boosts weak signals effectively, though you may want to add a pre-amp for cable runs beyond 50 feet.
Customer support from PBD has a strong reputation, with lifetime warranty and 24/7 technical assistance. The 4.4-star average across nearly 2,000 reviews reflects solid real-world performance, though some users note the plastic components feel less premium than the price suggests.
Dual TV output advantage
Most amplified antennas force you to add a splitter if you want to run multiple TVs, and every split degrades signal. The dedicated dual outputs on this PBD antenna maintain full signal strength to both TVs, which is a meaningful advantage for homes with multiple viewing locations.
Build quality trade-offs
The plastic housing and mounting hardware are the weak points. In areas with severe weather, you may want to add extra reinforcement to the mounting pole. The rotation motor and remote control work reliably but feel less refined than premium alternatives like the Televes.
7. Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR – Best Premium Long-Range Outdoor TV Antenna
Pros
- Exceptional fringe reception
- TForce automatic gain control
- Integrated 5G/LTE filtering
- Professional build quality
- Dual amplified/passive modes
Cons
- Very large and heavy
- Highly directional requires precise aiming
- Premium price
The Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR is the best outdoor TV antenna I tested for serious long-range reception. This European-engineered beast is what professional installers reach for when the job demands pulling in weak signals from 80-100 miles away. I tested it at a remote mountain property about 85 miles from the nearest broadcast towers, and it pulled in channels that every other antenna on this list missed entirely.
The TForce technology is what sets this antenna apart. The built-in preamplifier with automatic gain control dynamically adjusts amplification based on signal conditions, preventing overload on strong local stations while maximizing gain on weak distant ones. This is the same tech used in professional broadcast applications, and it shows in real-world performance.
The 38 dBi gain on high-band VHF and 46 dBi gain on UHF are the highest in this roundup by a wide margin. The integrated FM/LTE/4G/5G filtering cleans up interference from cellular and radio sources that plague other antennas. For rural users in the broadcast transition zone, this is the gold standard.
Build quality is exceptional, with weather-resistant aluminum and stainless steel construction. The directional stacked triple-boom design requires precise aiming, but the payoff is unmatched fringe reception. At 4.6 stars across 480 reviews, this is the highest-rated antenna in our roundup, and the 82% five-star rating reflects its premium performance.
Who needs the Televes
If you live 70+ miles from broadcast towers, in mountainous terrain, or in a deep fringe area where other antennas fall short, the Televes is worth the premium. The TForce technology and high gain make it the best outdoor TV antenna for rural areas where reception is genuinely challenging.
Size and installation complexity
This is a large antenna at 84 inches long and weighing significantly more than the others on this list. You will need a sturdy mounting pole and ideally a professional installer if you are not comfortable with roof work. The precise aiming requirement means you’ll want a signal meter or app to dial in the optimal direction.
8. GE Outdoor HD Digital Yagi Antenna – Best Yagi Design Antenna
Pros
- Yagi design for long range
- Trusted GE brand
- Weather-resistant construction
- J-mount included
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Assembly instructions could be better
- Some plastic parts feel cheap
- May need amplifier for weak signals
The GE Outdoor HD Digital Yagi Antenna brings traditional Yagi design to the modern cord-cutter market. Yagi antennas have been the gold standard for long-range reception for decades, and this GE model delivers that heritage with 4K and ATSC 3.0 compatibility. I tested it at a property 55 miles from broadcast towers with the towers all clustered in one direction, and it pulled in 60+ channels with clear picture quality.
The directional Yagi design focuses all its gain on the tower cluster you aim it at, which gives you excellent range in exchange for requiring proper aiming. If your local towers are all in roughly the same direction (most US markets), a Yagi is hard to beat for the price.
The included J-mount simplifies installation and works on eaves, walls, or roof mounts. The weather-resistant construction held up well through my testing period. At 4.4 stars across nearly 700 reviews with a Best Sellers Rank of #20 in TV antennas, this GE model has proven itself as a reliable mid-range option.
The limited lifetime warranty and free US-based technical support from GE add real value. If you run into installation questions or have a defective unit, the support experience is significantly better than generic import brands.
Yagi vs multi-directional trade-offs
Yagi antennas deliver more range per dollar than multi-directional designs in markets where towers are clustered. The cost is the need to aim precisely and the inability to easily pull in towers in other directions. Use sites like RabbitEars.info to check your local tower locations before choosing.
When to add an amplifier
If you are over 60 miles from towers or have significant cable runs, adding a pre-amplifier like the Channel Master CM-7778 will significantly improve performance. The GE Yagi without amplification works well in suburban setups within 50 miles of broadcast towers.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor TV Antenna?
Choosing the right outdoor TV antenna comes down to understanding three factors: your distance from broadcast towers, the direction of those towers, and the local terrain. Get these right, and even a budget antenna will deliver excellent results. Get them wrong, and no amount of money will save you.
Calculate your real range requirement
Visit RabbitEars.info and enter your address to see exactly which broadcast towers are within reach and in which directions. Note the distance to the farthest tower you want to receive, then add 15-20% for safety margin. Most antennas claim 70-100 mile ranges, but real-world performance typically caps at 60-80 miles due to earth curvature and terrain obstacles.
If you are within 30 miles of towers, a budget multi-directional antenna will serve you well. From 30-60 miles, look at mid-range multi-directional or directional antennas with amplification. Beyond 60 miles, you need a premium directional antenna like the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR with proper pre-amplification.
UHF vs VHF: do you need both?
Most digital TV broadcasts in the US now happen on UHF frequencies, but some stations still broadcast on high-band VHF (channels 7-13). A small number of stations use low-band VHF (channels 2-6), which requires very specific antenna designs. Check RabbitEars to see which bands your local stations use.
If all your channels are UHF, a UHF-only antenna will work. If you have any VHF stations in your market, make sure your antenna covers those frequencies. The ClearStream 4V, 2V, and Televes DAT BOSS all cover both UHF and high-band VHF.
Multi-directional vs directional antennas
Multi-directional antennas pull in signals from all directions without aiming, which is ideal when towers are spread geographically. They are easier to install and work well in most suburban markets. The trade-off is slightly less range than a directional antenna of the same size.
Directional antennas (like Yagis) focus all their gain on a specific direction, giving you maximum range. They are ideal when your local towers are clustered in one direction or when you need to reach distant towers in deep fringe areas. The cost is the need to aim precisely and the inability to easily receive signals from other directions.
Amplified vs passive antennas
Amplified antennas have a built-in preamplifier that boosts weak signals. They are essential in fringe areas beyond 50 miles, for long cable runs over 50 feet, and for splitting signal to multiple TVs. The Televes TForce, Channel Master preamps, and Winegard Boost XT are all quality options.
Passive antennas rely solely on their physical design to capture signals. They are simpler, more reliable long-term, and immune to amplifier overload on strong local signals. If you are close to towers, passive designs often outperform amplified ones because they don’t add noise.
5G and LTE filtering matters more than you think
With 5G cellular networks expanding rapidly, interference from cell towers has become a real problem for OTA reception. The new 5G broadcasts sit adjacent to TV frequencies and can overwhelm nearby channels. Look for antennas with built-in 5G/LTE filtering, or add an inline filter like the Channel Master LTE Filter.
The Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR has integrated FM/LTE/4G/5G filtering built into the antenna electronics, which is one reason it performs so well in real-world tests. The 1byone and ClearStream models also include cellular filtering.
Weather durability and materials
Your outdoor antenna will face years of UV exposure, rain, wind, snow, and temperature swings. Aluminum construction with stainless steel hardware is the gold standard for longevity. Plastic components are fine for budget antennas but tend to degrade faster in harsh climates.
UV-resistant coatings, sealed connection points, and corrosion-resistant materials all extend antenna life. The Televes and Antennas Direct ClearStream models use premium materials that hold up to decades of outdoor exposure. Budget antennas like the GE models use more plastic but still survive 3-5 years in most climates.
ATSC 3.0 (NEXTGEN TV) readiness
The US is in the middle of a broadcast transition to ATSC 3.0, which delivers 4K resolution, HDR, Dolby Atmos audio, and interactive features. While ATSC 3.0 uses the same RF frequencies as current ATSC 1.0 broadcasts, having a NEXTGEN TV ready antenna ensures you are prepared for the transition.
All eight antennas in this roundup support ATSC 3.0 broadcasts. The Televes and ClearStream models have the strongest NEXTGEN TV performance based on my testing, likely due to their superior filtering and amplification.
Installation difficulty and DIY considerations
Most outdoor TV antenna installations require mounting hardware, coaxial cable runs, and grounding. Budget 2-4 hours for a typical DIY install, plus a helper for roof work. If you are not comfortable on a ladder or roof, professional installation typically costs 200 to 500 depending on complexity.
The GE models with included J-mounts and the ClearStream antennas with pivoting bases are the easiest DIY installs. The Televes and larger PBD antennas require more substantial mounting and ideally a professional installer for optimal aiming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rated outdoor TV antenna?
Based on our testing, the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V is the best overall outdoor TV antenna, combining 70+ mile range, multi-directional reception, and premium build quality. For rural areas with challenging reception, the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR delivers unmatched long-range performance.
Are more expensive TV antennas worth it?
Expensive antennas like the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR are worth it in specific situations: deep fringe areas beyond 70 miles, mountainous terrain, or markets with significant 5G interference. For suburban viewers within 50 miles of towers, budget antennas under 60 perform nearly as well as premium options.
Are outside TV antennas worth the investment?
Yes, outdoor TV antennas are worth it for anyone wanting to cut cable or supplement streaming. The average household saves 1000+ per year by switching to OTA broadcasts, and outdoor antennas receive stronger signals than indoor models. Most pay for themselves within the first month.
What is the best outdoor TV antenna for rural areas?
For rural areas, the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR is the best choice, with 100 mile range, TForce automatic gain control, and integrated 5G filtering. The Channel Master Pro-Model and Winegard HD7694P are also strong rural performers for areas with clustered towers.
What is the number one outdoor TV antenna?
The number one outdoor TV antenna depends on your specific needs. For most users, the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V delivers the best balance of performance, ease of installation, and value. For maximum range, the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR is unmatched in fringe reception capability.
Final Verdict on the Best Outdoor TV Antennas
After 90 days of testing across multiple locations and use cases, the Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V is our top pick for the best outdoor TV antenna in 2026. It delivers reliable 70+ mile multi-directional reception, premium build quality, and NEXTGEN TV compatibility at a price that won’t break the bank. For most suburban cord-cutters, it is the perfect balance of performance and value.
If you live in a rural area or need maximum long-range reception, the Televes DAT BOSS Mix LR is worth the premium investment. For budget buyers, the GE Outdoor HD Digital TV Antenna punches well above its price point. The motorized PBD models work best when your local towers are spread in different directions, and the 1byone omni-directional design is the easiest to install for set-and-forget operation.
No matter which best outdoor TV antenna you choose from this list, you are setting yourself up for years of free HD and 4K broadcasts without a monthly bill. Check your local tower locations on RabbitEars.info before buying, match the antenna to your distance and terrain, and you’ll be pulling in more channels than cable ever delivered.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
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Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.