Similar results here, although I haven't tried batteries, just mains power. Using the wire antenna, anywhere in the house is fine. I can put one in my shed out back (100 ft or so) and it seems to work fine too, I should check the RSS on it.
Chip antennas will definitely not go as far in the house, haven't tried them outside but I can find locations that aren't reliable. Also have a couple with the RPSMA connector, but haven't done much with them.