What can be better than driving your dear Chevrolet Silverado and listening to your favorite singer? The combination is surely lethal!

But imagine forgetting your USB at home that had all the tracks in it and somehow your mobile refuses to connect with the stereo. What other options are you left with to make your drive fun and entertaining?

Why not put it on the radio? Most cars come with antennas that catch signals so you get to enjoy your favorite radio channels. But when you drive your Silverado through hill stations or rocky roads in the middle of nowhere, the radio signals tend to drop and yes, we know how annoying the buzzing sound can be.

This is why we recommend you to replace your factory-fitted antenna with shorter ones, giving you better reception and yes, surviving through the car wash without a problem!

Comparing Best Short Antenna for Silverado in 2022

Short Antenna
Size (inches)
Signal Quality
6 ¾
Excellent
7
Excellent
1.5
Excellent
8
Good
3
Average
4
Good
5.5
Excellent
3.2
Average
4.8
Excellent
4.8
Excellent

Best Short Antenna For Silverado

We understand how annoying it is to break your average antenna in a car wash and get it replaced every time. Moreover, the pain doesn’t end here. When driving through smaller down you experience a great drop in your radio reception which is extremely heartbreaking.

Hence, to protect you from heartbreak, we have compiled this list of the best short antennas for your Silverado so you get to experience non-stop fun through your long haul!

1.
AntennaMastsRus The Original

AntennaMastsRus The Original

What exactly makes AntennaMastsRus one of the best aftermarket antennas for Chevy Silverado?

It is the strength, durability, and flexible design that it offers! This antenna is short in length so that even if you plan for a quick car wash, it won’t bend and break.

Moreover, the inclusion of rubber construction in the making allows the antenna to withstand hot summer days, and even if you find it wearing and tearing over time (which is rare), you get a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty allowing you to get it replaced.

What else shall we mention here? Manufactured in Germany, the antenna promises to give you clear reception irrespective of the place you are in. how is it made possible? The copper coil fitted inside the antenna is known for capturing strong signals that let you enjoy your favorite radio channels without any distortion.

With an amazing signal quality, the antenna offers ease of installation. Spare a few minutes from your busy routine and you’ll be done with the installation.

And let’s not forget the different colors this one is available in. The AntennaMastsRus has successfully created a premium quality antenna that is lightweight and captures signals, letting you enjoy your favorite tracks without any distortion.

Pros
  • Rubber construction that withstands high temperature
  • Embedded with a copper coil for better signal quality
  • 2-year manufacturer’s warranty for hassle-free usage
  • Easy to install
  • Short in length and durable
Cons
  • Does not fit properly
  • Not compatible with every Chevrolet Silverado model
  • Breaks easily as opposed to what is mentioned in the details
2.
Rydonair Antenna Compatible with Chevy Silverado

Rydonair Antenna Compatible with Chevy Silverado

If you do not find the factory-installed antenna worthy, get your hands on the Rydonair antenna which is highly compatible with most Chevrolet Silverado models.

But why do we say it is better than the original? Because this one is short in size and made from premium quality rubber, adding to its flexibility.

Also, it comes with a carbon fiber base which makes installation easy, while the antenna looks more like a trophy shining upfront.

Thus, no matter if you have to move through low-roofed places, this won’t bend and break. Additionally, if you are one of those people who get their car washed once or twice every month, the rubber antenna by Rydonair will survive through it all, every time!

Moreover, it is easy to install, offers great reception so tuning in to your favorite FM channel won’t be a problem and best of all, it looks great!

Most Silverado comes with a longer, factory-fitted antenna which does not have a great reception, but with this shorter version of the original one, you’ll be happy with the outcomes.

Pros
  • Short in length and flexible
  • Rubber construction makes it unbreakable
  • Easy to install
  • Offers great reception
  • Compatible with most Chevrolet Silverado
  • Affordable
  • Looks great
Cons
  • The adaptor that comes along needs to be fixed separately
3.
AntennaX Super Shorty

AntennaX Super Shorty

Good things come in small packages; we know you have surely heard of this phrase. And proving it right, here we introduce to you the AntennaX super shorty.

A billet aluminum black powder-coated antenna that promises maximum durability.

This one comes in two sizes, 1.5 inches, and 7 inches, giving you full control over your choice. Moreover, with this shorty, you do not need to de-install your factory-fitted antenna. That is correct! The antenna is designed in a way that it easily fixes over your Silverado antenna, hence grabbing stronger signals for a clearer radio experience.

But it is important to mention here that like all other antennas, the AntennaX super shorty too works to improve reception of stronger stations while the weak ones are completed eliminated.

Furthermore, if you think this antenna will hinder your Bluetooth of navigation signals, it surely won’t mess around with any as these operate through a different antenna.

It catches the distant signal of both AM/FM, giving you a variety of channels to surf through while you’re driving to reach your destination. Imagine having hours of peaceful listening to your favorite tracks on the radio, without any distortion or hindrance?

Sounds amazing, right? Hence, you can now experience that particular feeling of “happiness” only after the installation of this antenna on your vehicle.

Although the shorty is one good-looking antenna that promises to improve radio reception for you the only downside to it is that it may not make the “perfect” fit for all Silverado models.

Hence, you need to be sure of the size before ordering one for your car!

Pros
  • Short in length
  • Improves reception of stronger radio stations
  • Come in two different sizes: 1.5 inches and 7 inches
  • Easy to install
  • Do not need to de-install your factory-fitted antenna as it can easily be installed over it
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Poor reception
  • Not compatible with most Silverado models
4.
RONIN FACTORY Bullet Antenna for Chevy

RONIN FACTORY Bullet Antenna for Chevy

The Ronin Factory bullet antenna for Silverado is probably one of the best Silverado antennas on the list.

As quick as the bullet, this beautifully designed antenna is fast at grabbing signals, giving you a clear reception in places where you might not be able to enjoy your favorite radio station otherwise.

Moreover, because the antenna is one beauty to look at, we are sure people will try to take it away. But thanks to the clever design, this one consists of a pre-applied thread-like locking compound that makes it fully anti-theft.

But will the antenna survive through a car wash? Yes, it will! The Ronin Factory’s bullet antenna is made out of billet aluminum with a hard-anodized black finish, giving the hardest outer construction that makes it highly durable and strong.

And wait! The manufacturer promises it to be compatible with most Chevrolet Silverado models, giving you the cleanest reception anywhere, anytime!

How do you install it, you ask? It is super easy! All you need to do is unscrew the old, factory-fitted antenna and position the thread over the mount, and screw it in place.

The best thing about this antenna is that comes with no adaptor that needs to be installed using tools, hence tools-free, quick installation is what you get to enjoy here!

The bullet-shaped antenna by Ronin Factory is versatile in design, easy to install, and compatible with your car’s Bluetooth and navigation system. And yes, the installation is not permanent so in case you wish to replace it in the future, doing so won’t be a problem.

Pros
  • Easy installation
  • Fun, strong and versatile design
  • Heavy-duty aluminum construction for maximum durability
  • Compatible with Bluetooth and navigation system
  • In-built locking system makes it safe from theft
  • Sleek and stylish design
  • No adaptor included
Cons
  • Users have a complaint of poor reception when driving towards outskirts of the city
5.
CravenSpeed Stubby Antenna for The Chevy Silverado

CravenSpeed Stubby Antenna for The Chevy Silverado

Looking for the best replacement antenna for Chevy Silverado? Then check out the CravenSpeed Stubby Antenna.

Because an antenna has to go through a lot of including car washes and withstand high temperatures, the manufacturer of this short antenna has made sure it lasts longer.

How? The antenna is made from billet aluminum and finishes off with a thick layer of black powder that ensures it lasts much longer.

Moreover, it is compatible with Silverado and Sierra models that had been introduced to the work from 2007 till 2020. So yes, if you own a car of a similar model, installation won’t be a problem.

Want to know more? The stubby antenna by CravenSpeed offers great reception and is durably, proudly manufactured in the USA so you get to choose your newest radio station with clean and clear reception.

Pros
  • Installs within seconds
  • Made of billet aluminum and coated with black powder for maximum durability
  • Fits easily on car models that were manufactured in years from 2007 to 2020
  • A perfectly sized antenna for a car wash
Cons
  • Average radio reception
  • The powder coating on the outside of the antenna may chip of easy
6.
RONIN FACTORY Chevy Silverado Short Antenna

RONIN FACTORY Chevy Silverado Short Antenna

A replacement antenna for Chevy Silverado, the Ronin Factory’s short antenna has proudly taken the next place on our list.

Whether it is your Silverado or a truck, this short antenna proves to be a perfect fit for most vehicles.

Even though it merely measures 4 inches in length, the antenna still promises to capture signals that give you clear reception in return. Moreover, see the design? The sleek and glistening design is to simply die for!

And in case you’re thinking that the spectacular design becomes a little too “attractive” for some, the antenna consists of a thread locking system that allows it to fix in place securely so no one else can take it away.

But is it easy to install? Yes, super quick and easy to install that is why we mentioned it here!

What you need to do is unscrew the already fitted antenna and position it in place, tighten the screws and you’re good to go.

And let’s not forget, this shorty is car wash safe hence the splashes won’t cause it any harm over the years!

Pros
  • Easy and quick to install
  • In-built locking compound makes it anti-theft
  • Remains safe from water damage
  • Compatible with most vehicles
  • Modernly designed
  • Does not interfere with your vehicle’s Bluetooth or navigation system
Cons
  • Does not capture stations with weaker signals
  • Not fit for 2019 Sierra trucks
  • Poor reception
7.
AntennaX 50 Cal Black Bullet Antenna

AntennaX 50 Cal Black Bullet Antenna

Next up is the AntennaX 50 cal bullet antenna that measures up to 5.5 inches in length, is sturdy and highly durable.

How can we be so sure of its durability and sturdiness? The bullet-shaped design comes in a billet aluminum casing covered with a black anodized coating which not only adds a shine to it but ensures the antenna stands strong against changing weather.

Even the multiple carwashes through the year won’t break it loose! Hence, the antenna proves its durability over time! Now once you have been satisfied with the antenna not fading away, next we’ll talk about the installation which is of course extremely easy and quick.

Just unscrew the old one, place it in and tighten the screw. Moreover, the AntennaX 50 cal bullet antenna comes in two wonderful colors: black carbon and silver carbon.

So those of you who want something decent and not so shiny can easily go for the black one while people who love to show off with their vehicle’s accessories, silver carbon is surely your shade.

Because of its good reception, modern design, and durability, this may be the best short antenna for Chevy Silverado, but before you hop out to buy it, make sure it is compatible with your vehicle’s model.

Although, you’ll find this antenna great a few users are living outside the city complained of weaker reception and distortion while tuning in to their favorite FM stations. Also, this one isn’t compatible with Bluetooth hence, if you’re looking for an antenna that goes well with the latter, you might have to skip this one.

Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Available in two different colors
  • Easy to install
  • Made of billet aluminum and coated with a black anodized powder that keeps it protected during carwashes and against high/low temperatures
  • Modern, bullet design
  • Excellent reception
Cons
  • Heavyweight
  • It May is not compatible with your vehicle’s Bluetooth
8.
Maxracing Short Aluminum Antenna

Maxracing Short Aluminum Antenna

Are you bored with the old-looking antenna on your 2012 Chevy Silverado? Then it is time you replace it with this handsome-looking piece of equipment by Maxracing.

Another short antenna that proves to be a great signal catcher is this model by Maxracing.

It has been cleverly made of 7073 aluminum and finished off with a generous coating of anodized black powder which protects it against the wind, water, and changing temperature.

So, no matter if it’s rainy or hailing, the antenna would neither break nor the paint would chip off.

And do you see the threaded mounting at the bottom? That is a clear indication of easy installation. It’ll only take you a few minutes to unscrew the old antenna and fix this in place without the use of any tools.

Moreover, the antenna has been rated to be one of the best when it comes to catching signals for clear reception even in the middle of nowhere. And not just this but the antenna is compatible with other systems including your vehicle’s Bluetooth, GPS, and On-Star.

Yes, interference-free usage is what we are talking about here! Lastly, the Maxracing antenna can be trusted in terms of durability and long-lasting performance, letting you enjoy your favorite FM stations without any distortion and noise.

Pros
  • Receives both AM and FM signals
  • Great signal quality/reception
  • Easy and quick to install
  • Compatible with GPS, Bluetooth, and On-star
  • Modern and durable design
Cons
  • May not catch stations with weak signals
9.
KEYO1E 4.8

KEYO1E 4.8″ Short Antenna

Ever heard of the KEYO1E short antenna? If you haven’t then you have seriously missed out on an amazing antenna for your chevy Silverado.

With this antenna, KEYO1E has introduced a new concept of an “injection” antenna. What is it?

The antenna has been made from heavy-duty ABS material and has been wrapped around enhancement chip and copper coils that pair up to catch the weakest of signals so that you get a clear reception everywhere.

Sounds great, right? Moreover, it is known to catch signals of both AM and FM so yes, while driving for hours towards your destination, you have a few good options to switch in between without getting bored.

Although the antenna measures only 4.8 inches tall, it is strong enough to survive through years of usage. What do we mean exactly? Whether you’re planning for a car wash or it is already rainy outside or somehow the sun has planned to burn everyone with its hot rays, the antenna will survive through it all, standing straight proudly!

Yes, even the paint won’t chip off! Moreover, it provides easy installation, taking only a few minutes to fix in place. The KEYO1E short antenna is compatible with Bluetooth, On-star, and your vehicle’s GPS so with it replacing the old antenna, you wouldn’t have to worry about interference of signals of the later one.

Thus, when talking about durability, good signal quality, and compatibility with systems like Bluetooth and GPS, you know we’ll be recommending the KEYO1E antenna only!

Pros
  • Compatible with Bluetooth, GPS, and On-Star
  • Can easily be installed within minutes
  • Tool-free installation
  • Made from heavy-duty AMS material which promises maximum durability
  • Good signal quality
  • Catches both AM/FM signals
Cons
  • May fade away with time as opposed to what is promised by the manufacturer
  • Might break easily
10.
Aftid 4.8

Aftid 4.8″ Short Replacement Antenna

Standing at 4.5 inches tall, the Aftid replacement antenna is compatible with Chevy Silverado models.

Moreover, it has been built using high-quality ABS material and treated with a plastic spray that keeps it safe from corroding.

Incased inside the anti-corrosive body are spring coils and a printed circuit board that connect to improve AM/FM signals, giving you clear reception for fun and entertainment. And yes, it also does not interfere with either Bluetooth, On-Star, or GPS signal, hence you can use all three without any worries.

But how can we prove its durability over time? Aftid promises that the antenna can genuinely withstand temperatures below -40 and above 245 degrees Fahrenheit without breaking or even bending an inch.

Not sure if it’s true? Get your old one replaced by it today to see the change. Yes, the Aftid’s antenna is easy to install and only takes up a few minutes of your time to screw in place.

Oh and yes, Aftid now offers a 30-day free usage trial with the purchase of an antenna. So until you’re satisfied with the performance, you don’t have to pay. What more could you ask for really?

Pros
  • Easy installation
  • 30-days free usage trial
  • Compatible with GPS, On-Star, and Bluetooth of your vehicle
  • Consists of spring copper coils and a printed circuit board gently enclosed in a case made from high-quality ABS
  • Plastic spray finish for anti-corrosion properties
  • Can withstand harsh weather conditions and even car wash
  • Durable and strong
  • Compatible with most models of Silverado
  • Catches signals of both AM/FM
Cons
  • Offers limited stations
  • Some users have complained of the antenna breaking off after a few weeks of usage

Buyer’s Guide

When planning longer trips especially outside the city, you need a companion to keep you entertained. And what can be better than having free time to listen o your favorite tracks throughout the drive?

If you forget to download a few good songs on your phone, do not worry because the radio offers a few good channels that can be highly entertaining. But when it comes to radio stations, clean reception can be a problem.

Are you too struggling with it? If yes, you need to change your factory-fitted Chevy Silverado antenna with one that is much better. But of course, your decision of which antenna to buy cannot be solely based on someone’s recommendation.

Why? Because what works well for them may not work great for you! Thus, we have gathered a few tips that’ll help you find the right antenna for your Silverado, one that surely elevates your whole “radio listening” experience.

Short Car Antenna vs Long

short antenna installed on silverado

Although, both of these do not have much difference, still, some people tend to prefer one over the other at times.

Why is that so? As compared to the longer antenna, shorter ones are easy to manage. Why do we say so? You must have encountered a few incidents where the antenna broke during a car wash, we are sure you did! This is where the shorter ones come in handy!

Moreover, the shorter antennas look good too. But what about the reception you ask? The reception range is decreased only by 30% hence, not making a huge difference altogether.

Thus, if you’re in search of a more “handsome” looking antenna that is as powerful, shorter ones for your Silverado will do just fine!

Stubby Antenna Vs. Regular Antenna

A give fact here, stubby antennas are the ones shorter in length while a regular antenna is much longer in measurement.

Hence the difference between these two is only that stubby antennas are greatly convenient for smaller places like small buildings, private libraries, and hotels. And if you have had faced instances where your longer car antenna broke because of the lower roof, you surely need to switch to a shorter one.

The only major difference is that stubby antennas decrease the reception by 30% which for some can be a hassle if you live in an area where you receive fewer radio signals. Otherwise, reception is never a problem with these too!

Material

Despite being manufactured out of different materials, most manufacturers use these three materials more often: aluminum, rubber, and plastic. Remember, with a short antenna for your Chevy Silverado, you need to make sure it is durable hence can withstand the changing weather causing wearing and tearing over time.

Even though both rubber and plastic antennas have been recorded to have survived through changing weather conditions if you wish to attain maximum durability, go for the aluminum-based antenna which will surely last longer.

Quality of Signal

Yes, we know every label claims to offer antennas that produce excellent signal quality, but of course, we know the truth. Unlike what a brand claims to sell its product, not every antenna can catch signals, giving you the cleanest of reception every time, which can be frustrating.

Imagine buying a short antenna for your Silverado and not being able to enjoy your favorite radio station can be truly annoying.

Hence, when buying a short antenna, check for reviews to ensure you buy one with the strongest signal quality, or else, stick to the factory-installed antenna of your Chevy Silverado.

Types of Short Antennas

bullet antenna on silverado

Little do people know that short antennas come in two types:

Where masts styled antenna comes with round tips and are old ones, the bullet ones are built much stronger, in the shape of a bullet, and promise to last much longer.

Thus, because of their design and durability, bullet antennas have quickly gained popularity amongst car owners who love to tune into their favorite radio channels while driving down the streets.

Active Antenna vs Passive Antenna

Ever heard of these terms? Even if you have, not everyone knows the difference between the two.

When choosing a short antenna, if the packaging says “active” on it, it means the antenna is quick in catching signals and amplifies, hence offering better reception in places where an average antenna might not even work.

On the contrary, a passive antenna only catches signals that are passing by and does not amplify them like every other average antenna.

Ease of Installation

Where most stubby antennas are easy to install, some may require a lot of effort especially if you end up buying the wrong fit. So, before you jump quickly into buying a short antenna for your Silverado, make sure it is of the right size, or else you’ll need a replacement.

Moreover, some stubby antenna comes with adaptors that need tools to be installed separately while others are free of it. If you are new to screwing antennas, you need to make sure that the one you choose is super easy to install or you’ll need professional help to get the work done.

Price

Your budget matters, of course! Thus, once you’ve decided how much you’re willing to spend on a stubby antenna, only then head out to the market and search for the best one within the budget. Or else, you are sure to be overwhelmed with the numerous options available in the market, only making your decision more difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a stubby antenna interfere with the satellite signals?

If you’re using Bluetooth and navigation in your car, then know that these are managed by a different antenna hence a short antenna won’t interfere with their performance.

How to remove shark fin antenna Silverado?

Although the work may seem a little technical, with some clear guidance, you can get it done all by yourself.

Start with removing the nuts that are holding the antenna in place. Next, pull up the antenna from the car, unplug all the screws that come along and remove the fin. Once done, attach the headline, place the screws, tighten them and you’re done!

It’ll take only a few minutes to remove the shark fin and replace it with another just in case.

How tall is an average shortwave antenna?

An average shortwave antenna measures anything below 7 inches. It can be 3 inches or 6.5 inches, depending on the design. But, do not be fooled by the short length as it does not mean lesser performance.

Even short antennas are known for their great reception because most are designed in a way that not only are they great at capturing signals from afar but are highly versatile and durable.

Does short antenna work fine?

Yes, they do especially if you’re not looking for higher frequencies to catch, for which we’d always prefer longer ones.

If you’re planning to install one on your Silverado, the stubby antenna not only works fine but looks great too.

Do stubby antennas make noise on bigger roads like a Highway?

Unlike the longer ones, because of are short in length, the stubby antennas do not make noise unless fixed loosely.

In case your antenna is making noise, stop your car to check the problem and fix it.

Can stubby antennas be damaged by water?

Most short antennas are made out of plastic, rubber, or aluminum, all of which are heavy-duty materials that can withstand water splashed and weather changes without wearing, tearing, or breaking.

Thus, if you’re looking to invest in an antenna that will last longer, this one is the right choice.

Does a short antenna work with an HD radio?

Yes, it works pretty well with it too.

Conclusion

silverado truck drivers

We know how much you love driving your Chevy Silverado while tuning in to your favorite radio station. But of course, when moving through smaller cities or villages, the signals get compromised which can be pretty annoying.

Although most Silverado comes with factory-fitted antennas that are longer, we suggest people switch to shorter ones as these are durable and do not break during a car wash, hence saving you the hassle of changing it every time.

Moreover, the stubby antennas look good, are easy to install, and most importantly, deliver the same results as the longer antennas.

Hence, why not update your Chevy Silverado’s look by replacing the old antenna with a modern one and enjoy clearer and distortion-free FM stations anywhere?

 

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