Top 10 Best Metal Detectors of 2024
The best 'all-around' metal detector is the Minelab Equinox 900.
Metal detecting is a hobby that sparks the thrill and curiosity of treasure hunting. But it can also be very expensive.
The good news is, there’s a perfect metal detector out there for you, no matter what your skill level or budget is! After weeks of meticulous research, we’ve put together a list of metal detectors, handpicked for their versatility, valuable features, and reasonable price points.
The top 10 picks below were precisely selected with a specific need in mind. Whether it be for gold hunting, underwater detecting, inexpensive detectors, or a device for beginners and children, this list will help you find the ideal metal detector for your next hunt.
Our Top 10 Picks
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Metal Detecting for Newbies
Before digging into the world of metal detecting, it’s crucial to understand the basic capabilities of a metal detector so you know what to expect. Equally important, you should be aware of all the necessary tools you’ll need in addition to a metal detector before you begin. The next 2 sections will quickly cover some of the basics of metal detectors for new beginners.
As a newbie to metal detecting, we recommend starting with a beginner guide like “How To Start Metal Detecting For Beginners”. A comprehensive guide will provide you with all the basic info you need to get started.
Take your time to read and understand the guide, there’s no rush. Once you’re done, you can return armed with knowledge and confidently choose the perfect metal detector for your new adventures.
How Do Metal Detectors Work?
Metal detectors work on the principle of electromagnetic induction(1). This happens around its main operational component, the search coil. As you swing your metal detector around, the search coil emits its unique electromagnetic field into the ground. In effect, when this electromagnetic field comes in contact with another piece of metal, that metal disrupts the field(1), promptly sending you an alert that an item is buried there.
Required Tools Besides A Metal Detector
Some metal detectors can be purchased as complete kits with all the tools you need in them. However, others require that you buy all your tools and accessories separately. These are the tools you’ll need, along with your trusty metal detector:
- A Shovel – Most importantly, you’ll need A shovel with sharp edges for digging.
- A Hand Digger – This is the smaller and more precise shovel used for extracting items without damaging them.
- Pinpointer – An extremely useful handheld device that helps you accurately pinpoint targets and know exactly where to dig.
- Pair of Headphones (Optional) – We recommend using noise-canceling or Bluetooth headphones since they can help you focus and hear faint detection alerts better.
- Finders Pouch – Use a pouch to store all your finds and tools on the go.
- Protective Gloves – Safety First! You only get two hands after all. Protect them from objects or contaminants during your adventure.
- Drop Cloth – A simple towel or cloth works well for placing dirt on and cleaning off finds.
Things to Consider First
Here are some things you might want to consider first before you decide what metal detector might be the best for you:
- Intentions: The first thing to decide before choosing a metal detector is what you want to do with it. Of course, you want to find treasure but think beyond that. Are you specifically looking for gold? Do you plan to detect in water? What kind of water (saltwater or freshwater)? Knowing what you plan to do will help significantly when choosing the right metal detector for your hobby.
- Level of Use: Next, you’ll want to consider how invested you’ll be in the hobby. If you’re just looking to treasure hunt once or twice, it won’t make sense to break the bank on a feature-rich metal detector. However, if you’re going to take up this hobby for some time, a higher-end machine will offer you more valuable features and the ability to find deeper buried treasure.
- Price: Metal detectors can range in price from under $100 to over $3,000(2)! If you’re just starting out, it’s best to start with the most affordable option for your budget. Just make sure to do your research, and choose a metal detector that offers the features you find important.
- Features: Some metal detectors have more features than others. Luxuries like wireless audio, visual & audible target ID, and multi-frequency capabilities can be helpful for a pro, but they can also be overkill for a beginner. If you’re on a budget, it’s best to focus on the more essential features like discrimination and ground balancing.
- Ease of use: Look for a metal detector that’s easy to assemble and operate. Some detectors have automatic ground balancing, making them easier to use in different terrains, while others require some adjusting. Make sure to read reviews before purchasing a metal detector so you know what to expect.
- Weight: Treasure hunts get long and you might be swinging your metal detector around for a while. Consider choosing a model that’s lightweight and comfortable to carry. While most devices built today are made lightweight by standard, check the specifications and pick a weight that’s just right for you.
Now that we’ve got the basics out of the way, let’s jump into helping you find the best metal detector for your new hobby.
Best Inexpensive Metal Detector
"Dr. Öteks MT-XR Metal Detector Kit"
- Most Affordable
- Advanced Features
- Good Detection Depth
- Includes All Accessories
- IP68 Waterproof Rating
One of the best inexpensive choices available is “Dr. Ötek’s MT-XR”. Sold as a starter kit, this model comes with all the tools and accessories you’ll need to start metal detecting right away. Additionally, this machine offers good detection depth, waterproof capabilities, and 5 advanced detection modes to help your machine adapt to different soil conditions. Essential features like trash discrimination and ‘metal’ mode will help you ignore unwanted items like old nails and bottle caps, while only looking for the targets you want like gold and silver. In summary, this model is the perfect option if you’re looking for a cheap metal detector, but don’t want to miss out on valuable features.
Valuable Features
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5 Major Detection Modes: ‘All-Metal’, Disc, Memory, Jewelry, and Pinpoint(3). These modes enable users to personalize their search based on the types of metals they’re hoping to find. Ultimately, it will improve your accuracy and efficiency during hunts.
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Large LCD Screen: The notably large user-friendly LCD screen provides easy-to-read information on the battery status, target depth, and much more, making it easy for new users to comprehend.
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Backlight: Additionally, there’s a backlight on the LCD screen that allows you to see clearly see important information in varying light conditions.
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Large Waterproof Coil: One feature that stands out is the powerful 9.8-inch waterproof search coil(3). The size alone allows the device to pick up metals buried up to 10 inches underground! Additionally, the search coil is waterproof allowing for effective searching underwater and in damp areas like the beach.
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Lightweight: The entire unit is only 2.2 pounds making it super easy to carry!
- Includes All Accessories: This machine includes everything you need! The MX-TR is sold as a complete kit with everything you’ll need to start metal detecting on day 1.
- Discrimination: Offers discrimination modes to ignore unwanted targets.
Best Budget Metal Detector
The “Minelab X-Terra Pro”
- Plug N' Play
- Budget-Friendly!
- Waterproof (Up to 16ft)
- Advanced Audio Controls
- PRO-SWITCH™ Technology
Read the full review here: Minelab X-Terra Pro Review
The Minelab X-Terra Pro perfectly balances price, quality, and valuable features. As a budget-friendly choice, the X-Terra Pro is attractive among treasure-hunting enthusiasts because of its unique versatility as a single-frequency metal detector. Although this metal detector only offers single-frequency capabilities, Minelab’s proprietary PRO-SWITCH™ technology allows users to quickly switch between frequencies, allowing you to search for a variety of metals in various conditions.
Another great feature of this model for its price, is its advanced audio controls. With multiple audio tone options, now you can hear if an item is trash or treasure before you start digging! It also allows you to gauge the depth and size of the target, just by listening to its tones.
Not too cheap and not too expensive. If you’re looking for a recommendation, the Minelab X Terra Pro stands out as one of the best metal detectors to use on a budget.
Notable Features
- Advanced Audio Control – The X-Terra Pro comes loaded with various audio tones to help you identify what’s underground by just listening. Not only will you be able to tell if an item is trash or treasure, but also the size and depth of the target.
- Interchangeable Coils – One nice feature of this model is the fact that you can interchange search coils from Minelab’s ‘Equinox’ series onto this model. So if you already own an Equinox 900, or just want a better search coil, it’s easy to find one that fits your preference.
- PRO-SWITCH™ Technology – Even though this may be a single-frequency machine, Minelab’s PRO-SWITCH™ feature allows seamless switching between frequencies, ensuring top-notch performance across multiple environments and target types. (4)
- Plug & Play – With preset and customizable search modes like coin, relic, beach, and prospecting, users can tailor their settings to adapt to the environment and look for specific targets.
- LCD Display – The large LCD display provides easy-to-read details on target identification, depth levels, and ground balance. This significantly helps you as the user in easily identifying your conditions.
- Waterproof – The waterproof search coil allows for detecting in water and damp conditions and full submersion up to 16ft. (4)
Best Metal Detector For Children
The “Bounty Hunter Junior”
- Lightweight
- Easiest to Use
- Adjustable Size
- Strong Search Coil
- Kid-Friendly Design
If you’re like most, once you start enjoying metal detecting yourself, you can’t help but want to share the fun with your whole family. Imagine, making memories with your kids or grandkids, hunting for gold and treasure beside the beach on a nice morning.
While some devices may seem complicated, this metal detector by Bounty Hunter, combines simplicity, lightweight construction, and performance all into one. Designed with kids in mind the Bounty Hunter Junior comes with with a user interface easier than any other metal detector on the market! Its ingenious control panel features buttons and knobs, as opposed to an LCD screen, ensuring super simple operation for children of all ages. The user-friendly benefits coupled with it’s inexpensive price point makes this metal detector the best choice for children.
Important Features
Designed with youth in mind, the Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector comes with an interface that’s easier to use than any other detector. It’s super easy for kids to understand.
- Comes with simple-to-use knobs instead of LCD screens
- 6.5 inch water resistant coil
- Adjustable length to accommodate all kid sizes
- Offers discrimination control
- Lightweight (1.5 lbs)
Best Metal Detector for Beginners
The “Nokta Simplex Lite”
- Plug-N’-Play
- Easy to Learn
- Preset Modes
- Best Starter Metal Detector
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
Are you captivated by the idea of finding hidden treasures? Maybe you’ve been watching people on social media and the idea of finding unique trinkets excites you!
Well, look no further!
The Nokta Simplex Lite metal detector is specially designed to be the best metal detector for beginners. It combines an easy-to-use interface with exceptional performance and design, making this the perfect metal detector for a beginner. Its preset search modes eliminate the need for complex adjustments, while the clear visual and audible target ID helps you understand what’s buried before you dig. Additionally, its lightweight & waterproof design ensures confident exploration and opens doors to exciting beach and water hunts. As a novice, you’re excited to start metal detecting and don’t want to be bogged down by complicated setups. The Nokta Simple Lite prevents just that with its simple plug-and-play design.
Beginner-Friendly Features
- Plug-N’-Play Simplicity: The Nokta detector lives up to its name Simplex in every way. Forget complicated set-up procedures! This metal detector has a single menu design, allowing you to power it on and begin detecting instantly.
- Preset Search Modes: There also isn’t a need to worry about customizing intricate settings. The Simplex comes pre-loaded with various search modes like Park, Field, All-Metal, and Beach. Just choose the mode that best suits your environment and start searching!
- Visual Target ID: The Simplex Lite provides clear and visual target identification on the LCD screen.
- Audible Target ID: Visual AND Audible Target ID! Audible target ID plays distinct audio tones for different types of metals. This makes it easy to differentiate between valuable finds and junk.
- Waterproof Design: Don’t let water dampen your day! Haha, this metal detector is fully submersible up to 3 meters (10 ft), making it perfect for searching beaches, shallow water, or digging in wet soil (5).
- Lightweight and Compact: Weighing in at 2.7 pounds, it’s a breeze to carry around ;). Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver through various terrains and allows for comfortable extended detecting sessions(5).
Best Intermediate Metal Detector
The “Garrett AT PRO”
- Reasonably Priced
- Advanced Targeting Modes
- Ground Balancing
- Advanced Audio Features
- Best Overall Choice
- Waterproof up to 10ft
Treasure hunters, rejoice the Garrett AT PRO! This feature-packed device boasts advanced features and versatility, making it the best metal detector for intermediate and novice diggers alike. Withstanding the test of time, the Garrett AT Pro metal detector is here to take your adventures to the next level.
The Garrett AT Pro is a reliable metal detector that has been around for years. Although it’s not the newest model, it still does an amazing job at almost half the price of some higher-end models. It can seamlessly adapt to various terrains, conquering any beach with its brilliant waterproof build. Plus, its advanced audio informs you about nearby targets, while its customizable search modes and adjustable ground balancing empower you to tailor your settings for maximum detectection.
Key Features
- Waterproof Design: The AT Pro conquers any environment. Its waterproof design lets you search beaches, wade through streams, or uncover submerged secrets in lakes and ponds with a depth rating of up to 10 feet (6)
- Hear Every Whisper of Treasure: Garrett’s innovative Proportional (Pro) Audio lets you “hear” the target. Subtle variations in the signal’s tone and pitch will tell you about the size, shape, and even the depth of your find. Standard Audio Modes are also available, offering clear beeps for each target, perfect for beginners or those who prefer a simpler approach (6)
- Discrimination Modes: Discrimination modes act like your personal treasure filter. Fine-tune the AT Pro to ignore unwanted targets like trash or iron, allowing you to focus on the valuable finds you truly desire.
- Ground-balancing: Mineralized ground can sometimes mask treasures. The AT Pro’s adjustable ground balancing feature eliminates this electronic interference, ensuring you receive accurate target identification for every hidden bounty. (6)
Best Metal Detector for the Money
The “Minelab Manticore”
- 50% More Depth
- 10 Preset Search Modes
- Advanced Multi-IQ
- Advanced Target ID
- Integrated Flashlight
- Waterproof up to 16ft
The Minelab Manticore is nothing short of elite. Just read the reviews and you’ll see why the Manticore is rated #1. It has features not offered by any other metal detector, not to mention unrivaled detection power! In addition, its 11-inch search coil will cover more ground and give you the depth to find things no other metal detector can.
Remarkably, the Minelab Manticore is known as the most powerful metal detector available on today’s market. It has mind-blowing 50% more detection power than a traditional metal detector and waterproof capabilities of up to 16 feet (7)! This model is the way to go if you’re looking for a metal detector with all the bells and whistles. You won’t regret it!
Advanced Features
- Advanced Multi-IQ Technology: The Manticore’s multi-frequency is like no other! Minelab’s ground-breaking technology gives this machine 50% more power than any other machine on the market (7).
- Upgraded Visual & Audible Target ID: Minelab’s innovative visual and audible target ID allows you to clearly hear and see your targets, thanks to the rich target ID map.
- Built-in GPS tracking: The built-in GPS feature allows you to log your path while hunting and mark points of interest.
- Wireless: Offers wireless audio for your headphones.
- 10 Search Modes: Search for any metal in any terrain, thanks to 10 different search modes like all-terrain, beach, surf, and even goldfields (7)!
- Vibrating Grip: Not only does the Manticore alert you visually and audibly when it detects a new treasure, but it also features a vibrating grip that alerts you of nearby targets. (8)
- Backlit LCD & Flashlight: The daylight might end, but your hunt doesn’t have to! Thanks to an LED flashlight integrated directly into the control box, you can keep the hunt going as long as it takes! (8)
Best All-Around Metal Detector
The “Minelab Equinox 900”
- Multi-Frequency
- Deep Detection Depth
- All-Terrain Modes
- Comes with Target ID Feature
- Top-of-the-Line Model
- Waterproof up to 16ft
Our pick for the best all-around metal detector is the Minelab Equinox 900. As one of the most popular models among enthusiasts, the Equinox 900 is such a favorite because of its versatility. Some metal detectors are designed for specific environments/targets and using them outside of that doesn’t yield the best results. However, this metal detector has a multitude of features, allowing it to detect in any environment or terrain.
One of the most noticeable features of the Minelab Equinox 900 is the multi-IQ feature which allows you to search for multiple metal frequencies at the same time. Pair this with it’s incredible Target ID feature and you’ll be able to see what’s undergound before you start digging! Being able to find anything, anywhere, at any time, is a luxury not all metal detectors give you… But this one does.
Key Features
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Multi-Frequency Feature: One of the best features of the Equinox 900 is its multi-frequency technology. For those of you who don’t know, multi-frequency is a feature on metal detectors that allows them to search for multiple targets at once. While using the multi-frequency feature, users can easily search for silver, gold, and other valuable metals, all at the same time. This feature also enables the detector to perform optimally in a wider range of environments, ranging from mineral-rich soils to sandy beaches. (9)
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Adaptability Modes: Dominate all terrains with the Minelab Equinox 900! Quickly adjust your metal detector’s settings, depending on your surroundings, with just the tap of a button. Easy-to-understand modes like Park, Field, Beach, and Gold, allow users to tailor their metal-detecting experience to suit their terrain.
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Waterproof (Fully Submersible): The Equinox 900 allows a whopping 16ft of submersion in fresh or saltwater. This feature makes it perfect for underwater metal detecting in any condition. (9)
- Target Separation: Control how your detector responds to a variety of signals to weed out unwanted items even, in the trashiest ground conditions.
Best Metal Detector for Gold Prospecting
The “Garrett AT Gold”
- Perfect for Finding Gold
- Specialized Gold Features
- Higher Frequency for Gold
- Wireless
- All-Terrain
- Waterproof 10ft in Freshwater
The Garrett AT Gold Metal Detector is exclusively tailored for gold hunting. If you’re looking for nothing but phenomenal performance in finding gold, this model will get the job done exceptionally well.
Garrett AT Gold’s high operating frequency optimizes its ability to find gold, while the ‘All Metal’ Mode ensures maximum depth and sensitivity in either water or land. Its ‘tone roll audio’ enhances signal clarity and helps you identify targets more effectively. Plus, the customizable selections in ‘Zero Discrimination’ and ‘U.S. Coin Mode’ make it easy to discriminate against unwanted items.
If you’re serious about gold hunting, this metal detector should be your choice. It boasts full submersion up to 10 feet and features a 5” x 8″ search coil (10), allowing you to detect even the tiniest gold nuggets along shorelines. Whether you’re prospecting in mountain streams or searching for lost jewelry on the beach, this Garrett model is an ideal companion.
Special Features
- One feature that makes the AT Gold special, is its proprietary Garretts Ground Balance Window™ feature. Ground balancing is a feature that increases the device’s sensitivity to gold while reducing interference from mineralized soil and hot rocks. In turn, this makes the Garrett AT Gold highly effective in gold-rich areas. (10)
- 3 Valuable Search Modes: ‘All-Metal’, Discrimination, and Ground Balance, each suited for different detecting situations.
- Operates at a high frequency of (18 kHz) and can be adjusted. High-frequency levels are optimum for boosting sensitivity to tiny gold nuggets, ensuring no potential treasures are overlooked.
- Amazingly durable in all terrains.
- Waterproof up to 10 feet deep in fresh water.
- Built-in Z Lynk™ wireless technology, offering the ability for wireless audio.
Best Underwater Metal Detector
The “XP Deus 2”
- High-Quality
- One of the Best Upgrades
- Advanced Features
- Fully Wireless
- Multi-Frequency
- Waterproof up to 66ft
If what you’re looking for is the best waterproof metal detector, stop right here at the XP Deus II. This machine represents a significant advancement in metal detecting technology, offering unparalleled speed and accuracy for any enthusiast. With an unbelievable waterproof depth of up to 66 feet underwater (fresh or saltwater), this device is terrific for those looking to test their luck at beaches or snorkeling. While it may take some time to get comfortable operating this detector, the results will surely be well worth it.
Best Features
- Fully Wireless: Once paired, the coil, remote control, headphones, and pinpointer communicate without latency.
- FMF® Technology: Fast Multi-Frequency technology allows for simultaneous multi-frequency operation; with the choice of 49 single frequencies ranging from 4 to 45 kHz3. (11)
- All-Terrain Performance: High efficiency on both land and underwater, ensuring versatility in all environments.
- Waterproof Design: The device is waterproof up to an astounding 66 feet, suitable for underwater adventures.
- Customizable Audio Options: Multiple dynamic audio options, including PWM and SQUARE, cater to different user preferences.
Best Metal Detector for Coins
The “Minelab Equinox 600”
- Great Entry-Level Model
- Perfect for Coin Hunting
- Large Backlit LCD Screen
- Multi-IQ
- Submersible up to 10ft
- Extremely Versatile
The Minelab Equinox 600 has paved its way as an effective metal detector, catering perfectly to coin-hunting. Notably, the Equinox 600 is renowned for its swift recovery speed and accurate target identification. It can reliably detect coin-sized objects up to 8 inches deep and larger items even deeper. Moreover, users can increase and reduce the sensitivity settings to their preferences, minimizing false signals and honing detection accuracy.
In addition, this metal detector is designed for comfort with a lightweight build and ergonomic structure, making it suitable for extended use. Furthermore, its collapsible shaft enhances its portability, while the long-lasting battery supports up to 12 hours of continuous treasure hunting. Coupled with multi-frequency capabilities, this metal detector will find tons of amazing trinkets that others can’t.
Key Features
- Multi-IQ feature allows for fine-tuning, effectively optimizing searches for lost coins and jewelry (12).
- 3 Specialized Search Modes: Park, field, and beach; 3 different ground modes each optimized for select terrains.
- These modes provide the ability to fine-tune settings for optimal performance detecting coins in every condition.
- Large backlit LCD screen
- Waterproof design, allowing submersion up to 10 feet (12)
- Precise Targeting: Fast recovery and reliable depth indication.
Conclusion
As you embark on your adventure in the realm of lost treasures, it’s essential to choose the right gear for a successful and enjoyable hunt. Whether you’re new to this hobby and need your first metal detector or an experienced enthusiast looking for an upgrade, our recommendations cater to all levels of expertise. Remember to keep in mind factors, like detection depth, discrimination capabilities and the specific kinds of treasures you hope to discover when choosing. Armed with the metal detector you’ll be ready to uncover lost gems and make everlasting memories.
What metal detector are you currently using and how do you like it? Leave a comment below.
References
- “How A Metal Detector Works.” *Micro Magnet*, https://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/electromag/java/detector/. Accessed 23 May 2024.
- Stewart, Steven. “How Much Does It Cost for a Metal Detector? Plus Tips and Recommendations.” *Backyard Lord*, 17 May 2024, https://www.backyardlord.com/how-much-does-it-cost-for-a-metal-detector/. Accessed 23 May 2024.
- DR.ÖTEK MTXR Metal Detector for Adults. Drotek. https://www.drotekor.com/collections/all. Accessed 23 May 2024.
- “X-Terra Pro.” Minelab, www.minelab.com/usa/metal-detectors/x-terra-pro. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Nokta Detectors.” Simplex Lite, Nokta Metal Detectors, https://www.noktadetectors.com/metal-detector/simplex-lite/. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “AT Pro.” Garrett, garrett.com/sport/at-all-terrain/at-pro. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Manticore.” Minelab, www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/manticore. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Minelab Manticore.” Big Boys Hobbies, bigboyshobbies.net/minelab-manticore. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Equinox 900.” Minelab, www.minelab.com/usa/metal-detectors/equinox-900. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “AT Gold.” Garrett, garrett.com/sport/at-all-terrain/at-gold. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Deus II Detectors.” XP Metal Detectors, www.xpmetaldetectors.com/en/gamme/deus-ii-detectors.php. Accessed 25 May 2024.
- “Equinox 600.” Minelab, www.minelab.com/metal-detectors/equinox-600. Accessed 25 May 2024.
