DVB-T2 is the second generation digital terrestrial television standard, used for broadcasting free to air channels over the air through a rooftop or indoor antenna rather than satellite or cable. It replaced the earlier DVB-T standard in most of Europe, offering more channels and higher picture quality within the same broadcast frequencies through more efficient compression and transmission.
To receive DVB-T2, a television needs a built in tuner that supports this standard, and in several countries, including Germany, broadcasts additionally use HEVC video compression, which older DVB-T2 tuners without HEVC support cannot decode. Reception details, channel lineups and exact technical parameters differ by country, so it is worth checking local broadcaster information before assuming a TV bought abroad will work with a home antenna.
Anyone relying on an antenna rather than cable or satellite should confirm that a new television explicitly lists DVB-T2 support, ideally with HEVC, in its specifications. See our guide to antenna and reception and the entries on DVB-S2 and DVB-C for the satellite and cable equivalents.
