As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Short Antenna for Ford F150: Which One Is Worth It?

best short antenna for f150

Would you like to personalize your Ford F150 vehicle? Many options are available if that’s the case. Why not try the best short antenna for f150? This is because modern automobiles provide drivers with an abundance of personalization choices.

A small antenna is the best option to keep the focus on your pricey car. The factory antenna that comes with your truck isn’t so spectacular as to make a statement at first glance.

The huge profile of this vehicle makes it difficult to drive in bad weather or even to get into the garage.

The greatest short antenna for F150 vehicles is here for you to try out, so don’t be alarmed. Our guide on buying the best short antenna for ford F150 covers everything from utility to flaws.

In a Hurry? Why Not Check Our Top 3 Picks?

Best Overall
Rydonair Antenna Compatible with Ford F-150 / F-150 Raptor

  • Brand: ‎Rydonair
  • Carwash Safe: Yes
  • Weight: 1.27 ounces
Runner Up
RONIN FACTORY Bullet Short Antenna for Ford F150 / F250 / F350

  • Brand: Ronin Factory
  • Carwash Safe: Yes
  • Weight: 3.84 ounces
3rd Best Pick
AntennaMastsRus Original 6 3/4 Inch Car Wash Proof Antenna

  • Brand: ‎AntennaMastsRus
  • Carwash Safe: Yes
  • Weight: 1.58 ounces

What Are the Advantages of Using a Short Antenna in Your Ford F150?

If you want the greatest custom antenna for your F150, it should be able to pick up signals in clear condition and give high-quality amplifying power.

It also helps when you use automatic car wash services or go out in the rain if you’ve got a stubby or short antenna.

An effective short antenna can enhance your driving experience in several ways, which we’ll go over in detail below:

1. Great Looking

This is a great design feature since it keeps your truck’s bonnet looking clean and uncluttered.

From the exterior, it looks great, and it brings your favorite radio station right to your door!

advantages of using ford f150 short antenna

2. Reception on the Radio

It’s unlikely you’ll have any issues hearing live sports commentary, news, or weather updates on a truck radio with a 7-inch stubby. You must take a powerful antenna seriously and look past its diminutive size.

This device does not interfere with your navigation system or another satellite service, including Bluetooth and XM. A short antenna does not affect other performances. Thus you can get one.

3. It has a lot of Ser-friendly features

While stubby antennas may appear diminutive, they offer several useful features that standard antennas do not. When you park your vehicle or take it out for a trip, they won’t hit the garage door. They also won’t come off during a car wash.

With the help of the stubbiest, you’ll never have to worry about your car radio or antenna again!

Buyer’s Guide- Short Antennas for F150

Despite their appearance, the Ford F-series trucks do not come equipped with the best of accessories: a stock antenna.

The following are some of the most important specifications:

1. AM/ FM Reception

FM reception is excellent with most stubby antennas, and they enable crystal-clear listening to radio programs. Stubby antennas work exceptionally well in good FM coverage and deliver remarkable amplification.

However, if you drive past the locations with the most signal coverage and into the weaker ones, their service is intended to decline slightly. Static, especially on AM channels, is to be expected, but the attraction of your Ford truck’s horn will more than make up for the inconvenience.

A wiring system inside the antenna might affect the reception of radio signals.

2. Car Wash-Friendly or Not

The fact that you’ve stumbled onto an outside rollover system at a petrol station means only one thing: It’s time for the carwash. Most Ford F150 or Raptor stubby or short antennae will resist the rigorous wash and emerge unscathed.

You can even go with a carbon fiber-bottomed antenna with a rubber exterior if you truly want to avoid stress.

The stubby should have a rubber exterior because there will be a lot of carwash equipment cleaning and applying soap.

3. Quality

The aftermarket automobile antenna’s wiring tells you a lot about how well it will receive signals.

For example, a copper wired antenna is superior to steel or aluminum wired antenna. Simple physics explains it all.

In terms of signal reception, copper cable is 85 percent more efficient. Because why not? It is, after all, one of the most highly conductive minerals in the world!

In addition, high-quality copper wiring should be used in each short antenna for F150. Even at its diminutive 7-inch height, it can receive high-quality signals.

4. Installation

You may worry if you’ll have to drill, weld, or acquire an adaptor that looks out of place if you want to change the factory antenna on your Ford truck.

Stubby antenna installation is a simple process that requires no additional tools and takes only a few seconds.

If you don’t double-check that the antenna is compatible with the specified truck models and editions, your money will be wasted.

5. Waterproof

One of the biggest threats to antennas is car washing. Antennas are prone to snapping and exploding during this period. Then some don’t do it right away but eventually do. It’s not a good idea to constantly replace antennas.

What are your options in this case?

Antennas made of weak, water-resistant materials usually degrade with time, although high-quality antennas can last a long time. As a result, be sure to double-check the antenna’s construction components.

Be sure to check the product’s water-resistance before making a purchase.

6. Durability

It a too short and the low-quality antenna is more likely to break. If you wash your truck or put pressure on the antenna, this will likely happen.

Flexible and robust rubber material should be used to make the antenna. Rubber materials have been chosen as the antenna’s substance to ensure the antenna’s long-term viability. As a result, you won’t have to worry about replacing them all the time.

12 Best Short Antennas For Ford F150 Review

1. Rydonair Antenna Compatible with Ford F150 – Best Overall

Specifications

  • Antenna: Radio.
  • Brand: Rydonair.
  • Color: Ford F150.
  • Maximum Range: 7 Inches.

The Rydonair antenna has an easy-to-install, practical design. To get the most out of your Rydonair antenna, you need to replace your stock antenna with this one. No doubt it is the best short antenna for the ford f150.

The antenna is shielded from the elements on the exterior by a thick coating of stretchy rubber. Premium rubber covers the antenna’s interior components. It is also quite durable and may be used in any weather conditions.

This study is useful for improving and transmitting signals. To better respond to frequency signals, it enhances the antenna’s capabilities.

Aluminum is used to construct the table’s foundation. Aluminum is more durable than plastic and provides the greatest amount of support. As a result, the antenna may remain upright for optimal performance.

The antenna incorporates a carbon fiber column for added base stability on the mount. It enhances the antenna’s slim design, which measures 13 inches and has an exquisite appearance.

From 2009 until 2020, this antenna will fit Ford F150 and Raptor models. Aside from AM and FM frequencies, the antenna is also built to reply.

Pros

  • Signal reception brass substance.
  • Constructed of weatherproof rubber.
  • Easy Installation.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • Rural places might have poor signal reception at times.

2. RONIN FACTORY Bullet Antenna – Runner Up

Specifications

  • Antenna: Radio.
  • Brand: Ronin Factory.
  • Color: Black.

Your Ford pickup truck will look better with a 50 caliber bullet design antenna in addition to providing clearer sound for your favorite radio stations! 

The clever solution to your automobile radio difficulties is this F150 antenna. In addition to providing good coverage, the sleek, compact design draws attention to your automobile.

When you’re on a long road trip or traveling by yourself, the radio stations are a terrific way to pass the time. That said, if you don’t have some music playing as you drive your fancy Ford vehicle, you’re doing it wrong!

Just unscrew your old antenna and screw the Ronin Factory one in its place when you’re done.

You’ll be able to swap out the antenna in an instant, thanks to the included Allen wrenches! If you utilize Bluetooth or an auxiliary audio connection, this is the antenna for you!

And the fact that it resembles a bullet caught our attention since that’s precisely the vibe that Ford vehicles, big and small, give off when they’re out on the highway!

The antenna enclosure is made of 6061 solid billet aluminum, designed to survive for many years. Anodized black strong anodizing gives it a classy appearance while also resisting fading and chipping.

The bullet form antenna is also compatible with Dodge Ram, Ford F150, Super Duty, and Raptor trucks (as well as the F150, F250, F350).

Pros

  • Car wash safe.
  • A black anodized coating for increased sturdiness.
  • Easy Installation.
  • Enduring.
  • Appropriate for Ford F-Series.

Cons

  • Expensive.

3. AntennaMastsRus Original 6 3/4 Inch Car Wash Proof Antenna – 3rd Best Pick

Specifications

  • Antenna: Radio.
  • Brand: AntennaMastsRus.
  • Color: Black.
  • Weight: ‎1.58 ounces.
  • Dimensions‎: 8.3 x 0.9 x 0.05 inches.

AntennaMastsRus developed and manufactured a short antenna in Germany to improve radio signal reception and transmission.

A flexible, resilient, and long-lasting rubber material is used for the antenna. Regardless of the weather, it responds and makes adjustments as necessary. Thus, water, severe heat, or cold conditions do not affect its performance.

To secure this antenna to the vehicle, it features a stainless steel stud made in the United States resistant to rust.

With a length of 6.75 inches, this antenna is the shortest of its kind.

In the antenna, copper metal can be found. Copper is more electrically conductive than most other metals in tests conducted by reputable institutions. 

After silver, it’s the most conductive metal. This material’s signal receiving and transmission capabilities are enhanced by operating on it.

As a result, it may be used with a wide range of 2009 pickup trucks. As a result, it is extremely sensitive to AM and FM radio waves because of its interior copper composition.

In less than five minutes, you may have your short antenna up and running! No further equipment is required. 

You have to remove the long factory antenna and replace it with the small one that comes with the mounting bracket.

Pros

  • Car wash safe.
  • The antenna is composed of durable rubber that keeps it in shape.
  • It contains an interior copper metal that enhances signal reception.
  • It’s simple to install and doesn’t require specific tools.
  • Easy Installation.

Cons

  • Low-grade design.
  • Its female head may not fit the 2017 F150.

4. VOFONO Short Antenna Compatible with Ford

Specifications

  • Product Dimensions: 7 x 0.5 x 0.5 inches.
  • Item Weight: 1.59 ounces.
  • Manufacturer: VOFONO.
  • Antenna: RADIO.
  • Color: Matte black.

F150 owners will appreciate the Vofono antenna’s excellent quality, elegant design, and ease of installation.

Ford F150 vehicles from 2009 through 2021, the 7-inch spiral antenna are the right upgrade. The antenna’s small size removes the fear of breaking it out of the equation, especially if you pass past obstacles like garage doors or other similar barriers that might damage your antenna.

Being shorter than the default antenna doesn’t detract from its remarkable ability to receive AM and FM transmissions. This provides you the opportunity to listen to a variety of local radio stations while driving.

Protecting the antenna’s internal components from the elements of the environment is the black Spiral form rubber material. Copper metal is used to make the inner core, which can bear pressure from the outside world.

This is useful if you’re taking your Ford F150 to the carwash. The VOFONO spiral flexible antenna, on the other hand, is built to withstand the rigors of a vehicle wash. As a bonus, its high-performance copper screw secures it to the car.

Pros

  • Setup takes less than 30 seconds.
  • AM and FM reception is optimized.
  • Durable since it’s made of high-quality materials.
  • Flexible rubber construction.

Cons

  • The connection may be interrupted in some places.

5. TN TrunkNets Inc Bullet Antenna for Ford F150

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎TN TrunkNets Inc.
  • Color: Black.
  • Item Weight‎: 1.58 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎5 x 1 x 0.5 inches.

The Ford F150 Antenna from TN TrunkNets Inc. is ideal for your vehicle. One of these has replaced the original antenna that came with your automobile. 

Thanks to this solution, getting rid of your old antenna and replacing it with this sleeker model is both stylish and risk-free.

A 30 caliber bullet-like antenna is what this antenna resembles. An excellent product composed of high-quality materials is available for your use. If you’re looking to jazz up the look of your vehicle and get rid of the stock antenna, we recommend this device.

Your vehicle will look like a savage beast thanks to the black bullet antenna’s high-quality materials that are built to last! Your garage structure will no longer be scraped by your car’s long metal antenna now that you’ve replaced it!

You don’t need to acquire any additional tools or spend hours setting up the antenna bullet for the Ford F 150 because it was specifically developed for any series (2009 to 2021) of the Ford F 150.

Our Bullet Antenna has a scratch-resistant surface that can withstand the sun’s rays. Despite the time, it will retain the luster it had when new. Our antenna is built to last because of the high-quality materials we utilized, rigorously tested for durability and pressure.

Pros

  • Cheap.
  • Resistant to water.
  • No loud wind noise.
  • Premium Radio Bullet Antenna.

Cons

  • No potential cons.

6. CravenSpeed Stubby Antenna Compatible with Ford

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎CravenSpeed.
  • Color: Powder coat Black.
  • Antenna: Satellite, Radio.
  • Item Weight‎: 1.83 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: 0.45 x 0.45 x 3.2 inches.

You no longer have to worry about your OEM Antenna falling off in the car wash or garage. The Stubby Antenna measures just fewer than 4 inches and is constructed of billet 6061 aluminum. It’s lightweight, too.

Because the texture is baked into the paint, it will not chip or fade. On-Star GPS and Sirius Radio will not be affected by this stiff antenna replacement. It’s as simple as that! This is the ideal short antenna for your F-150, F150, F-series, or just My Truck.

Here in Oregon, this model is crafted out of billet aluminum. Your truck’s antenna will perfectly complement this stainless steel-threaded adapter, which measures around 3 inches tall. A black powder coat provides a durable finish that will not fade or chip over time.

One thing is for certain: copper coils are bad for your wallet! As a result, we are well-versed in the subject matter. If you are dissatisfied with the reception or any other device aspect, CravenSpeed will refund your money.

Pros

  • Premium Antenna for Ford.
  • Easy to install.
  • Dynamic design.
  • It comes with a durable black textured finish.

Cons

  • Bit costly.

7. AntennaX 50 Cal Black Bullet for F150

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎AntennaX.
  • Color: Black Carbon.
  • Item Weight‎: ‎5.6 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎8.25 x 5 x 1.25 inches.

The Ford F150 is going to be the first on the list. AntennaX, a firm that cares about the reception, provides a few alternatives for the bullet antenna f150 and most customers don’t detect a difference.

Antennas for 50 caliber rifles are usually low-profile, but this one is only 5.5 inches long, making it perfect for your f150. Billet aluminum with an anodized black finish that won’t tarnish or fade over time is used to construct this ring.

You can screw this antenna in place of your previous one, making it one of the top f150 shortened antennas. We recommend AntennaX, a well-known manufacturer in the stubby and short antenna market for your Ford.

Fits all Ford trucks manufactured between 1980 and 2018. With the 50 cal antenna, even the most popular 2013 2014 or 2015 F15o will look great! 

The T-6061 Billet Aluminum Antenna improves the aesthetic of your car while providing more durability than the original antenna. It’s a big improvement for a small investment of time and money!

Pros

  • Premium Antenna.
  • Lightweight.
  • Vibrant design.
  • Installation is very straightforward. 
  • Assembled out of T-6061 Billet Aluminum 

Cons

  • Low-grade construction.

8. RONIN FACTORY 4 inch Antenna for Ford F150

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎RONIN FACTORY.
  • Color: Black.
  • Item Weight: 1.76 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎ 5.71 x 3.11 x 0.31 inches.

A fantastic product that performs as defined, the Ronin Factory Bullet Antenna for Dodge RAM is available from Ronin. We appreciate that this antenna is constructed from a single piece of metal, ensuring that it will be quite sturdy.

The foundation is simple to assemble and should provide enough security. It is a bullet-style antenna, which makes it stand out even more on a truck, is also a plus. In general, we believe this is a fantastic product.

Pros

  • Modern design.
  • Anti-Theft.
  • Easy to install.
  • Carwash safe.

Cons

  • Low-grade building.

9. VOTEX Wash Proof EPDM Rubber Antenna

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎VOTEX.
  • Color: Black.
  • Item Weight: 2.39 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎‎7.13 x 2.76 x 0.43 inches.

Is it your goal to find the top Reception Short Antenna on the market for ford? We’ve got the antenna solution for you, trust us!! 

It should be noted that there is an abundance of short antenna alternatives available, but none of them deliver anything other than annoyance!

We’re presenting a short antenna that performs as closely as the factory antenna ever has in terms of performance, thanks to the use of highly interior conductive materials. 

The assertion isn’t just a statement! We’ve put this antenna through its paces on a variety of different automobiles.

It is made in the U.S.A. using 304 stainless steel threads designed and engineered in Germany for us.

At high speeds, the mast is made of robust rubber that is flexible and resistant to bending. VOTEX’s rubber composition has shown to be extremely durable in all weather situations after years of testing. 

It is 6 3/4″ tall and has a somewhat rough appearance. This mast is a straight “screw-on” repair for your vehicle’s existing mast.

Pros

  • It is made with durable EPDM rubber.
  • 304 Stainless steel construction.
  • Easy to install.
  • Carwash safe.

Cons

  • Expensive.

10. AntennaMastsRus 4 Inch Aluminum Antenna

Specifications

  • Brand: ‎AntennaMastsRus.
  • Color: Black.
  • Item Weight: ‎0.81 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎‎‎4.41 x 0.79 x 0.31 inches.

Your vehicle comes with an obnoxiously large and unattractive antenna, and you’re fed up with it. You’ve found it! 

This is your answer! This antenna is made in Wisconsin and has a Wisconsin-made anodizing process!

Multiple warranties and complete guarantees are included with every purchase from this company. In addition, they guarantee their consumers will obtain replacements of high quality and features.

This product is likewise of tested and established quality, ensuring that your vehicle receives a strong radio signal no matter how far you drive. Antenna reliability is ensured with the help of this device.

The antenna’s brass threading is so flimsy that it breaks and bends to move smoothly. In addition, it ensures that you won’t have to worry about its flexibility when driving on the road.

Pros

  • The most satisfactory antenna for the Ford series.
  • The set-up goes as smoothly as butter.
  • It appears to have a solid profile.
  • The whistle is all that the short antenna can muster.
  • It’s lightweight, flexible, and effortless to store.

Cons

  • For the most part, purchasers dislike how long it lasts.

11. KSaAuto Rubber Short Antenna

Specifications

  • Antenna: Satellite, Radio.
  • Brand: KSaAuto.
  • Item Weight: 1.58 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎8 x 2 x 0.4 inches.

If you are in the market for a new antenna for your Ford F150, you should consider the KSA Auto Rubber Antenna as a choice you should consider. 

In addition to being robust and adaptable, this antenna performs an excellent job of assisting in maintaining excellent radio reception for both FM and AM networks.

There is no need for tools because the antenna is simple to install and takes about 30 seconds. You only need to detach the original antenna and screw in the replacement antenna by hand.

The antenna’s exterior casing is made of TPU, a flexible wear-resistant rubber that has formed memory and can be twisted back into shape instantly. So they won’t get damaged by a rough vehicle wash or a garage scrape.

Pros

  • Dynamic design.
  • Cheap.
  • Flexible antenna.
  • It designed with premium metal.

Cons

  • Less durable.

12. TrunkNets Inc 6 3/4″ Antenna

Specifications

  • Antenna: Radio.
  • Brand: TrunkNets Inc.
  • Item Weight: ‎1.44 ounces.
  • Product Dimensions: ‎7.6 x 1.54 x 0.67 inches.

When you first see this short Antenna from TrunkNets Inc., you’ll know it’s a must-have for your collection. When you drive your vehicle about town, you may listen to clear radio programs even if it isn’t the best for gathering rural AM signals.

Some people may not be able to use this Antenna as effectively as others because of various circumstances, including the Antenna itself. Don’t ignore the cautions on the automatic car wash regarding removing the Antenna before entering the wash.

Pros

  • Highly durable.
  • Affordable.
  • Adjustable Antenna.
  • Carwash safe.
  • Easy to install.
  • Stable low-profile design.

Cons

  • Short Antenna.

Do you know where and how to put up a short antenna in an F150 truck?

A stubby antenna’s mounting options are an important consideration if you plan to buy one for your magnificent truck. The following is how you can set up the best short antenna for F150:

1. Unscrew the Antenna Connector

It’s time to say goodbye to your standard antenna and hello to a fantastic stubby! Most of the time, turning it the other way around fixes the problem.

A tool may be required if it doesn’t work. Fortunately, the new antenna comes with the necessary tools to get the job done. You don’t want to damage the antenna base by applying too much pressure.

2. The Stubby Antenna Must Go

Once you’ve attached the new antenna to the base, turn the threads clockwise until they’re completely tightened. To prevent signal loss, make sure the cable is tight. Also, avoid dropping the device in the middle of a car wash.

How to Lower Antenna on the Ford F150?

You can easily lower the antenna on your Ford F150 pickup using the simple techniques outlined below!

First, remove the antenna from the base. The antenna’s tip must be carefully removed without causing any harm before completing the next step.

Electrical tape works well for this. Wrapping the antenna’s tip is vital because it’s a small but critical element of the antenna that can fly off during removing it.

Using vice-grips gently push the antenna’s tip against the grips until it breaks free. Cut the shaft’s length with a wire cutter or hacksaw to make it shorter. Be aware that cutting large portions will result in poorer reception.

Determine how long you intend to retain the antenna before you begin. The reception quality won’t be significantly improved by shortening the stock 31-inch antenna by a few inches.

You must now file the antenna’s tip back down to a thin enough thickness to reattach it. It’s best to use a welding adhesive if you thinned it too much and it doesn’t fit well. The stock antenna on the Ford F150 can be shortened in this manner.

FAQ’s

Q: Is It A Problem If My Antenna Is Too Short For The Carwash?

A short antenna, in contrast to your Ford F150’s conventional 31-inch antenna, won’t get in the way during the vehicle wash. While doing the laundry, you can just let it alone.

Q: Is it true that reducing the length of an antenna degrades its reception quality?

Reception quality is reduced, and radio stations that are far apart are missed when you manually shorten stock antennas.

There’s a direct correlation between antenna height and the tip’s responsiveness, and cutting standard antennas short has the opposite effect.

Ford F150 Short Antenna FAQs

Q: Is GPS Affected by a Ford F150 Antenna?

GPS navigation systems, Bluetooth, and Sirius XM radio will not be affected by an antenna repair on an F150. A separate antenna is utilized by commercial vehicles for this purpose. As a result, the standard antenna located outdoors has no bearing on this issue.

Q: How Effective Is A Stubby Antenna In Broadcasting?

When utilizing a high-quality copper wired stubby, your reception will not be as good as with the default antenna unless the signal is really strong. 

You may encounter little static and skipping if traveling through an area with poor signal strength.

Wrapping Up

We believe that our evaluations and buyer’s guide have helped you choose the best short antenna for F150 straight away!

You’ll adore the refined appearance it gives your Ford vehicle, and you’ll get to listen to your favorite radio shows for hours on end.

However, if you’re still undecided, I’d suggest the Ronin factory bullet antenna. It has excellent looks to go along with its outstanding performance.

Overall, it’s a standout choice because of its impressive set of capabilities and is unquestionably a solid investment. In other words, be sure it’s a good fit for your needs and budget. It’s time to get behind the wheel!

What Are Others Saying?

Rydonair Antenna Review And Install On F150

The BEST short antenna for ANY truck (F-150 2021)

1 thought on “Best Short Antenna for Ford F150: Which One Is Worth It?”

  1. Pingback: Best Spark Plugs for 3.5 EcoBoost: A Comprehensive Buying Guide & Review - HammerAndCoop

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top