Table of Contents
Most of us spend a fair sum on cable TV and half the time we rarely watch all the channels. Others don’t have good reception, whether that’s because they live in remote areas or there is a lot of interference. Choosing the right antenna can save money and improve your TV viewing.
We are going to compare two very similar antennae, the Clearstream 2V vs 2 Max. We will look at a number of their features including appearance, channels and value for money. Once we have looked at all of the features, we will add a side-by-side chart and some pros and cons of each before we decide which is the better antenna.
We will begin with the features that the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max have in common.
Clearstream 2V vs Clearstream 2 Max – Similarities
Signal Range
The Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max have a signal range of over 60 miles. They are able to pick up signals from transmitting towers at more than 60 miles in multiple directions.
Multi-directional Elements.
For better range and reception, the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max have dedicated UHF and VHF multi-directional elements. Specifically, the Clearstream 2V has UHF 10.4 dBi and Hi-VHF 3.1.
Wide Beam Angle
The wide beam angle of the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max helps to pick up even more channels from towers that are widely spread apart. The Clearstream 2 Max has a wide beam angle of 70º but the exact angle of the Clearstream 2V isn’t stated.
Installation
The Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max are designed for indoor use and outdoor use. For outdoor use, they are strong enough to withstand high winds. There is a slight difference in that the Clearstream 2V has a unique peel and stick mounting bar and the Clearstream 2 Max is mounted with wall brackets.
Antenna Point App
The Antenna Point App works with the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max. It’s incredibly handy and free. Once you download the app, you can see all of the towers that are transmitting in your area. You can also check the distance between towers, a TV channel list, and the TV coverage zone.
Side by Side Comparison
We can review the features of the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 max in the comparison chart below.
Clearstream 2V | Clearstream 2 Max | |
Images | ||
Size | 11.75 x 20.65 x 9.13 inches | 20 x 27.5 x 2.8 inches |
Weight | 5.1lbs | 3.24lbs |
Range | 60+ miles | 60+ miles |
Multi-directional Elements | UHF 10.4 dBi and Hi-VHF 3.1 | UHF and VHF |
Wide Beam Angle | Yes | Yes, 70º |
Impedance | 75 Ohm | Not stated |
Installation | Indoor or outdoor, peel and stick | Indoor or outdoor, wall bracket |
Amplifier | Jolt 15dB USB in-line system | Not stated |
Antenna Point App | Yes | Yes |
Mast | 20 inches with pivoting base | Sold separately |
Free Channels | ABC, PBS, Fox, NBC, etc. 4K and 1080p ready | Yes, 4k ready |
What’s Included | 20-inch mount, all-weather mounting hardware, 12ft detachable coaxial cable | Wall bracket, all-weather mounting hardware. |
Warranty | Limited lifetime | Limited lifetime |
Price |
Next, we will move on to the differences between the Clearstream 2V and the Clearstream 2 Max.
Differences Between Clearstream 2V and Clearstream 2 Max
Appearance
They both have Clearstream signature loop antennae, and they are both black.
Clearstream 2V
The measurements are 11.75 x 20.65 x 9.13 inches, and it weighs 5.1 pounds. It has a wire receptor that focuses the antenna power.
Clearstream 2 Max
In total, it is 20 x 27.5 x 2.8 inches. Without the receptor, it weighs less at 3.24 pounds.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Read next – Clearstream 4V vs 4Max: Which Antennas are Better?
Impedance
The impedance refers to the current and voltage at the input of the antenna.
Clearstream 2V
The impedance rating is 75 Ohm
Clearstream 2 Max
There is no product information about the impedance.
The Winner Is- The Clearstream 2V
Read next – Clearstream 4V vs Clearstream 2V: Which Antennas are Better?
Amplifier
Again, unfortunately, we are missing some information about this feature.
Clearstream 2V
This antenna has a Jolt 15dB USB in-line amplifier system.
Clearstream 2 Max
There is no mention of an amplifier system with this antenna.
The Winner Is- The Clearstream 2V
Free Channels
The free channels will depend on your area and the app will give you a better idea.
Clearstream 2V
You can get ABC, PBS, Fox, NBC as some examples. The antenna is both 4K and 1080 ready.
Clearstream 2 Max
It is 4K ready but there are no examples of the free channels you can get or 1080 ready.
The Winner Is- The Clearstream 2V
What’s Included
What comes with the antenna adds to the value for money.
Clearstream 2V
It comes with a 20-inch mount with a pivoting base, all-weather hardware and a 12ft detachable coaxial cable.
Clearstream 2 Max
Sadly, there is no mount included. It comes with a wall bracket for mounting and all-weather mounting hardware.
The Winner Is- The Clearstream 2V
Value for Money
The two Clearstream antennae are well priced for their quality.
Clearstream 2V
This is a little more expensive, but only around $10-$15 more. It comes with a limited 3-year warranty.
Clearstream 2 Max
While it might be a little cheaper but if you buy the mount separately, it comes to the same price. You also get a 3-year limited warranty.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Read next – Channel Master 3020 vs 5020: Which Antennas is Better?
Pros and Cons
Before our final verdict, we have some pros and cons of the antennae from Clearstream.
Clearstream 2V
Pros:
- It better for indoor and outdoor use
- More pieces but still easy to assemble
- Good for multiple TVs
Cons:
- Depending on your area, you may have to experiment with the direction of the antenna
Clearstream 2 max
Pros:
- A very good antenna for indoor use
- Good number of free channels and with a clear picture
- Ease of use makes it worth the money
Cons:
- Some of the plastic parts are too weak
The Final Verdict
Today’s winner is the Clearstream 2V. Not only does it do a slightly better job at picking up TV channels, but the quality of the pictures is also better. We preferred the simple peel and stick mounting system and it makes sense to choose the antenna that has the 20-inch mount so that you can install it higher up and improve the signal even more.