In an era where cutting the cord from expensive cable subscriptions is a growing trend, the Novawave TV Antenna has emerged as a popular option for accessing free over-the-air (OTA) television channels. Marketed as a high-powered, easy-to-use indoor antenna, Novawave claims to provide access to numerous HDTV channels without monthly fees. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we dive into Novawave reviews from consumers, analyze its features, performance, and reliability, and evaluate whether it’s a legitimate solution for cord-cutters. This article is based on extensive research, including customer feedback from trusted platforms, to help you make an informed decision.
What is the Novawave TV Antenna
The Novawave TV Antenna is a compact, indoor digital antenna designed to capture free OTA broadcasts, including VHF, UHF, and FM signals. According to its official website, it offers a plug-and-play setup, requiring no technical expertise or tools. The antenna is marketed as a cost-effective alternative to cable, claiming to provide access to over 90 of the top 100 television channels, such as local news, sports, and entertainment, depending on your location. Its sleek, lightweight design makes it portable and easy to install, appealing to those seeking to reduce cable bills without sacrificing TV entertainment.
Key features highlighted by the manufacturer include:
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Multi-directional signal reception: Captures signals from various directions without needing repositioning.
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High-gain amplifier: An optional booster enhances signal strength for better reception.
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No subscription fees: Access free channels without recurring costs.
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Compact and portable: Ideal for home or travel use.
However, while the official claims are promising, real-world performance and customer experiences tell a more nuanced story. Let’s explore what consumers are saying about the Novawave antenna.
Novawave Reviews: What Are Customers Saying
To provide an accurate picture, we’ve compiled feedback from multiple reputable sources, including Trustpilot, Better Business Bureau (BBB), Amazon, and consumer reports. The reviews reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences, highlighting both the antenna’s potential and its limitations.
Positive Novawave Reviews
Some users have praised the Novawave antenna for its ease of use and ability to deliver free channels. Here’s what satisfied customers have noted:
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Easy Installation: Many reviewers appreciate the straightforward setup, which involves connecting the antenna to a TV’s coaxial port and scanning for channels. Users on Walmart.com have described it as “easy to install” and space-saving due to its thin pad design.
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Cost Savings: For those in areas with strong OTA signals, the Novawave antenna provides access to local channels like ABC, NBC, and Fox without monthly fees. One Amazon reviewer called it “one of the best purchases” they made, citing its value as a backup when cable services fail.
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Compact Design: The antenna’s portability and discreet appearance make it a practical choice for small spaces or renters who want a non-invasive solution.
Negative Novawave Reviews
Despite some positive feedback, a significant number of consumers have reported issues with the Novawave antenna, particularly regarding performance and customer service. Common complaints include:
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Poor Signal Reception: Many users, especially those in rural or obstructed areas, report receiving fewer channels than expected. For example, a Trustpilot reviewer stated, “I’m able to pick up 0 channels and want to return the NovaWave along with the booster as it is worthless.” Another user compared it unfavorably to a cheaper antenna, noting, “This Nova Wave antenna does not do what it says. I can get many more stations from my old $19 one.”
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Customer Service Issues: A recurring theme in negative reviews is poor customer support. Consumers frequently mention difficulties contacting Novawave, with unresponsive emails, non-functional phone numbers, and delays in processing refunds. One Trustpilot reviewer described the company as a “total scam,” citing a lack of response after attempting to return the product.
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Non-Delivery and Billing Problems: Several customers reported not receiving their orders or being charged incorrect amounts. A PissedConsumer reviewer claimed they were charged $394 for three antennas and a warranty when they agreed to $119, calling it a “rip off.” Others noted receiving no confirmation or tracking information.
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Refund Challenges: Novawave’s 30-day money-back guarantee is often cited as difficult to utilize. Reviewers on Trustpilot and Reddit mentioned delays or outright refusal of refunds, with one user stating, “Novawave did not give me a refund for the three antennas I returned… I sent more than a dozen emails. All were replied to by automation.”
Mixed Feedback from Consumer Reports
Consumer reports, such as those published on Mid-Day and TAPinto, present a more optimistic view, rating Novawave highly (4.9 out of 5.0) and praising its ability to deliver free channels. However, these reports also acknowledge that signal quality depends on factors like location, distance from broadcast towers, and obstructions (e.g., buildings or trees). They suggest that while Novawave works well in urban areas with strong signals, rural users may need the optional amplifier to boost performance.
Does the Novawave Antenna Really Work
The effectiveness of the Novawave antenna largely depends on your location and environment. OTA antennas, including Novawave, rely on receiving broadcast signals from local towers, which can be affected by:
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Distance from Broadcast Towers: Antennas perform best within 30–50 miles of a tower. Beyond this range, signal strength weakens, and the optional amplifier may be necessary.
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Obstructions: Buildings, trees, or hills can block signals, reducing channel availability.
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TV Compatibility: Your television must have a digital tuner (standard in most modern TVs) to process OTA signals.
In urban areas with clear line-of-sight to broadcast towers, Novawave can pick up major networks and local channels, delivering high-definition signals without subscription fees. However, in rural or obstructed areas, performance may be inconsistent, as noted by users who received fewer channels than promised. A Reddit user compared Novawave to an older antenna, stating, “With Novawave, I got 16 channels. With fully extended rabbit ears off an old analogue TV, I got 40 channels.”
It’s also worth noting that Novawave does not provide access to premium cable channels like ESPN, HBO, Disney, or Peacock, despite some misleading marketing claims. OTA antennas are limited to free broadcast channels, which typically include local news, sports, and classic reruns rather than recent shows or movies.
Novawave vs. Other Antennas: Is It Worth the Price
Novawave antennas are priced higher than many competitors, with costs ranging from $60 to over $100 when bundled with amplifiers or warranties. Reviewers frequently compare it to cheaper alternatives available at Walmart or Amazon, which often perform better. One Trustpilot user noted, “I got a TV antenna for $10 at Walmart that got more channels than this thing… they charged me $79.”
For context, reputable brands like Mohu, Winegard, and RCA offer indoor antennas starting at $20–$50, often with comparable or superior performance. When considering Novawave, weigh its sleek design and marketing claims against the mixed customer feedback and higher price point.
Novawave Customer Service and Company Reliability
Novawave operates under Tanscata LLC, based in Redwood City, CA, but is not accredited by the BBB, which raises concerns about its legitimacy. The company has a low rating on consumer platforms, with a 1.6-star average on PissedConsumer based on 81 reviews. Common issues include:
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Non-Responsive Support: Customers report unreachable phone numbers, automated email responses, and difficulty obtaining return authorization.
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Questionable Business Practices: Some users allege unauthorized charges or shipments, with one reviewer claiming they received an antenna they never ordered.
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Refund Delays: Even when returns are processed, refunds are often partial or delayed, with shipping fees not covered despite advertised guarantees.
The BBB lists Novawave as a broadcast company but notes its lack of accreditation, and multiple complaints have been filed regarding non-delivery and refund issues.
Pros and Cons of the Novawave Antenna
Pros
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Easy to install with a plug-and-play design.
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Compact and portable, ideal for small spaces or travel.
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Provides access to free OTA channels in areas with strong signals.
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High-definition signal quality for available channels.
Cons
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Inconsistent performance, especially in rural or obstructed areas.
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Poor customer service and difficulty obtaining refunds.
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Higher price compared to similar or better-performing antennas.
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Limited to local broadcast channels, not premium cable networks.
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Reports of non-delivery and billing issues.
Is Novawave a Scam?
While Novawave is not necessarily a scam, the overwhelming negative feedback regarding customer service, product performance, and refund issues raises red flags. The antenna itself is a functional device that can receive OTA signals under the right conditions, but its effectiveness is heavily location-dependent, and the company’s business practices have drawn significant criticism. Reviews on Trustpilot and PissedConsumer frequently label Novawave as a “scam” due to unfulfilled refund promises and unresponsive support, though some users have successfully received refunds after persistent efforts or disputes through PayPal or credit card companies.
Tips for Using the Novawave Antenna
If you decide to try the Novawave antenna, here are some tips to maximize performance:
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Check Signal Availability: Use tools like the FCC’s DTV Reception Maps to verify available channels in your area based on your zip code.
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Optimize Placement: Place the antenna near a window or high on a wall, away from obstructions, to improve signal reception.
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Rescan Channels: After repositioning, rescan your TV to detect all available channels.
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Consider the Amplifier: In areas with weak signals, the optional booster may help, though results vary.
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Document Your Purchase: Keep records of your order confirmation, tracking numbers, and communications in case you need to dispute charges or request a refund.
Should You Buy the Novawave Antenna?
The Novawave TV Antenna offers a compelling promise: free access to HDTV channels without monthly fees. For urban users with strong OTA signals, it may deliver on this promise, providing a cost-effective alternative to cable. However, the numerous negative Novawave reviews highlight significant drawbacks, including inconsistent performance, poor customer service, and challenges with refunds. Compared to cheaper, well-reviewed alternatives, Novawave’s higher price and questionable reliability make it a risky choice.
Before purchasing, research your local signal availability and consider more established antenna brands with better customer support. If you choose Novawave, buy through a platform like Amazon or Walmart for easier returns, and use a payment method that offers buyer protection, such as a credit card or PayPal.
Where to Buy the Novawave Antenna
The Novawave antenna is available through its official website (getnovawave.com or novawave.com), as well as retailers like Amazon and Walmart. Be cautious when ordering directly from the official site, as many users report issues with tracking, delivery, and refunds. Purchasing through a third-party retailer may offer better recourse if problems arise.
Conclusion
The Novawave TV Antenna has the potential to be a useful tool for cord-cutters, particularly in urban areas with strong broadcast signals. However, its mixed reviews, high price, and poor customer service make it a less reliable choice compared to other antennas on the market. Before buying, carefully consider your location, read independent Novawave reviews, and explore alternative options to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Novawave Customer Reviews (2025)
TapInto Editorial Insight:
In TapInto’s recent editorial, Novawave is described as a decent low-cost alternative to traditional antennas. However, the article warns that its marketing may overstate how many channels users can realistically expect. They recommend it for city-dwellers but caution rural users to temper expectations.
Trustpilot Reviews:
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GetNovawave.com Trustpilot Page: 3.3/5 stars
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Positive Review: “Works great in my apartment. Got 20+ channels right away.”
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Negative Review: “Customer service is unresponsive. Antenna didn’t work as advertised.”
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Novawave.com Trustpilot Page: Ratings vary, with similar concerns over shipping delays and product reliability.
Amazon Reviews:
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Amazon Listing for Novawave: Mixed ratings (hovering around 3.5/5)
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Verified customers confirm it can pick up 15–30 channels depending on their location.
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Some complaints about weak signal strength in rural or obstructed areas.
Better Business Bureau (BBB):
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BBB Novawave Profile: As of July 2025, Novawave has a B- rating, with multiple unresolved complaints.
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Most issues involve delivery delays, unresponsive support, or refund challenges.
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