Success in metal detecting lies in different factors, one of these is your choice of equipment. Choosing the best metal detector for the job is crucial as not all detectors are alike. You also need to make a good choice according to your level of expertise as some metal detectors are meant for beginners as some are for expert users. And whether it’s your first time looking for a good metal detector or you’re shopping for a better one, let us help you find the best with our metal detector selection guide.
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What type of metal detector do I need?
Metal detectors come in three general types:
Ground metal detectors are the most basic, level-entry detectors used for general metal detecting. This type can find all kinds of metals especially gold, silver, and other valuable metallic elements. This type also has larger search coils to detect deeper and farther. Some ground metal detectors can be used in shallow waters like beaches and streams but some are solely for ground use.
Underwater detectors are submersible with well-sealed electronics and waterproof coils. This type can be used in shallow and deep water up to a specific depth. Also, this kind is more expensive than standard detectors.
Gold detectors can find gold coins, jewelry, relics, and gold nuggets. This is mostly used in prospecting and for treasure hunting and is the most expensive and the most sophisticated of all types.
Aside from the three general types, metal detectors are also classified according to the type of frequency used. The most common and the most affordable type is a metal Very low frequency (VLF) with 2 wire coils and can extend up to 2 feet underground. This is the best type of metal detector for hunting gold and silver coins, relics, and treasures.
Meanwhile, pulse induction metal detectors are designed for security and personal use. This type has only one coil and uses echolocation to find different types of metals. Another type of metal detector is a kind that uses beat frequency oscillation and this is often used in electronic stores and is designed with two rings. Finally, there’s an industrial metal detector used in different establishments like airports, malls, banks, and more.
How we selected the best metal detectors?
The metal detectors on our list were selected through product specs, features, specs, and reviews from different shopping sites, review sites, and blogs.
The best metal detectors in the market today
Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector – best metal detector for gold & relic Hunting
Consumer Score: 89%, gave it 4 out of 5 stars
Minelab’s best metal detector perfect for beginners and experienced users.
Pros
- Ideal for beginner and professional users.
- Versatile and highly adaptable.
- Will work with all ground conditions.
- Will detect coins, relics, and metal jewelry.
- You can take it to the beach.
- With easy to read display.
- Comes with complete accessories.
Cons
- The display is not in color.
- Non-adjustable rod.
One of the most highly-rated metal detectors in the market today is the Minelab Equinox 800. This is a gem from Minelab as it comes with the most advanced features including Multi-IQ technology. This metal detector is one of the easiest to use and comes with a large and easy to read display. Just plug in any standard headphones or check the display for confirmation.
You can easily adjust depth, type of metal, and frequency and because this detector works in all ground conditions, you barely need any adjustments at all. This is a multifunctional, heavy-duty detector that you can use to detect all kinds of metals, treasure, relics, and more. You can use it for longer periods; it is ergonomically -designed for comfort with arm pads, straps, and comfortable headphones. Finally, this Minelab metal detector is a great value as your purchase comes with all the accessories you need to start detecting treasure right away.
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector – best metal detector for beginners
Consumer Score: 95%, gave it 4.5out of 5 stars
The best metal detector for first-time treasure and relic hunters.
Pros
- Easy to use and configure.
- With depth, discrimination, and target adjustments.
- Comfortable, ergonomic to use.
- Easy to carry around; not too heavy.
Cons
- You cannot adjust the rod.
- The screen is small.
- Not for underwater use.
Most metal detectors are very heavy making them very hard to carry anywhere, straining tour arms, shoulders, and back. But the Garrett Ace 300 is lightweight, easy to take anywhere as it weighs only 2.8 lbs. It is also designed with ergonomic features with a comfortable handle and armrest plus, arm straps so this will remain on you as you walk or run.
This Garrett metal detector comes with digital controls and an LCD. This beginner metal detector has easy adjustments with discrimination features using patterns and notch discrimination. The Ace 300 also has a feature called the Iron Audio where you can easily target metals and separate these from the trash. With the Iron Audio, you’ll get great results each time you look for precious metals, coins, relics, and jewelry.
This is a metal detector for beginners as it is easy to use. You will also get more value for your money as this comes with a generous 2-year warranty.
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – best metal detector for coins
Consumer Score: 88%, gave it 3.9 out of 5 stars
Find coins and other precious metals in different terrains with this metal detector.
Pros
- This is a waterproof and submersible metal detector.
- With Iron Audio and High-Resolution Iron Discrimination.
- Comes with Pro Mode Audio to easily determine the size, depth, and shape of the target depending on the tone audio.
- Comes with a two-year warranty to give you more value for your money.
Cons
- The metal detector rod is non-adjustable.
- The search coil is standard size
The Garrett AT Pro is easy to carry and use a metal detector best when looking for coins. This is because of its higher frequency that can work no matter what the environment and weather conditions may be. It is described as an all-terrain detector because it works anywhere even up to ten feet of water.
Weighing only 3 pounds, this metal detector has a large screen that makes it easier to check your target’s location. It comes with ergonomic features like a padded handle, a comfortable and adjustable armrest, and great features.
It comes with Iron Audio to let you discriminate between metal and other valuables from the trash. Use the headphone that comes with this metal detector and listen intently for the results using up to 40 different types of discrimination modes. Finally, the Garrett AT Pro comes with a convenient Pro Mode Audio so you can hear even the most subtle change in the target t’s audio response.
The AT Pro has a minimalistic design with easy to hold and handle and will work even for beginners and experts.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Pinpointer – best pinpointer metal detector
Consumer Score: 90%, gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Small, compact, and handy pinpointer metal detector – a must-have to zero in on your target.
Pros
- With audio and pulse detectors to help you accurately find treasure, relics, and coins.
- Easy to carry anywhere you’re hunting.
- With easy to use, quick retune feature.
- Waterproof can be used in shallow water.
- Easy to carry anywhere as it comes with convenient lanyard attachments.
Cons
- Small and can easily become lost.
- No LCD.
Most successful metal and treasure hunters use a combination metal detector and pinpointer. And while some metal detectors come with a pinpointer feature, many still rely on a compact, easy to use pinpointer device like the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT.
The Pro-Pointer AT is waterproof and will help you pinpoint the exact location of the treasure, relic, or coin you are searching for. It comes with audio and vibration indicators to keep you on your treasure’s trail. It is very easy to use and does not come with separate adjustment controls. Just power on and use.
Press the power button again to retune which is very important when you’re transferring from one environment to another. Use the power button again to cycle through the sensitivity adjustment and the device’s stealth mode. This means you will only be alerted using vibration, no audio. You can use this pinpointer up to a depth of 20 feet or 3 meters. It is rated IP68 and therefore, this device can stay only a few minutes in water.
Minelab CTX 3030 Standard Metal Detector – best metal detector for beach
Consumer Score: 90%, gave it 4 out of 5 stars
A great beach metal detector with a large search coil and complete accessories.
Pros
- With a large waterproof search coil that lets you search farther and deeper.
- Comes with a large color LCD with a unique GPS mapping feature.
- Comes with complete accessories including a pair of wireless headphones.
- With an armrest lock that’s adjustable, comfortable, and ergonomic.
- The device battery is sealed against sand and water making this great at the beach and shallow water.
Cons
- You cannot adjust the rod.
- Best for expert treasure and relic hunters.
The Minelab CTX 3030 is a very popular advanced metal detector that has a lot of impressive features. First, it is waterproof with a large coil protected against corrosion. The large coil makes it easier to find all kinds of valuable items including gold and silver coins, relics, and more.
This is one of a few metal detectors with advanced features like integrated GPS mapping. You can use your PC to check your current and previous locations and plan out your next move. However, this feature is not compatible with a Mac computer. The LCD is in full color and it provides all kinds of information to help you find your target easily.
This metal detector comes with all the accessories you need including a wireless headphone. This will help you hear even the faintest sound and locate your treasure right away. And with a wireless pair, you won’t have to worry about messy wires as you concentrate on your metal detecting activity.
The CTX 3030 has improved armrest locks. This is a new push-button lock that replaced the turn-lock mechanism which often wears out and becomes loose after many uses. Now, it is easier to adjust the armrest according to the size of your arm.
And since this metal detector has been designed for shallow water and beach use, the battery is now well-sealed to prevent water and sand from coming in. This is not for deep water treasure hunting but it’s still best for expert users.
Bounty Hunter Junior T.I.D. Metal Detector – best metal detector for kids
Consumer Score: 86%, gave it 3.8 out of 5 stars
A good metal detector for kids that’s very easy to use.
Pros
- With easy to read display ideal for kids.
- Easy to hold for small hands and arms.
- With easy to use audio detection volume.
- Comes with a one-year warranty.
- With target ID categories including coins, rings, iron, and valuables.
Cons
- With very limited features.
- With a small concentric search coil.
- Does not come with a headphone.
The Bounty Hunter Junior is ideal for children even a child as young as 6 years of age. This is a small and ergonomic metal detector that can locate iron, coins, rings, and other kinds of valuables. It has a concentric 6-inch search coil that helps locate deeper in the ground.
This metal detector is compact and has an ergonomic design making it easier to handle and operate even by small kids. The LCD is large and has kid-friendly characters to help young users understand how metal detectors work. It also comes with audio detection signals and the sound becomes louder as the metal detector moves nearer and nearer the treasure or object. Finally, it also comes with discrimination controls that will help users remove all unwanted items. A child can easily distinguish trash from treasure and locate iron, coins, rings, and other valuable metals.
The Bounty Hunter Junior is covered by a one-year warranty and thus, you’ll get more value out of your money.
Conclusion, Best Metal Detectors
Metal detectors come in many shapes and forms. It’s important to find the right one that matches your needs. Take time to check the pros and cons, features, and specs before you make a purchase. Always consider your expertise since some detectors are more advanced than others. And don’t forget, consider the metal detector brand as some are more durable, efficient, and affordable than others. Happy hunting!
