Best Metal Detectors

Our editors independently research the best products online to produce this list. We may receive commission on purchases made from the links below but this will never affect our product choices.

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Fantastic for finding hidden mysteries in the great outdoors, a reliable metal detector can be an excellent way to transform your weekends and afternoons. The thrill of metal detecting appeals to people all over the world but choosing an item for your hobby can be tough. That’s why we put together this list of top options to get you started.

How We Compared Metal Detectors

To find the right metal detectors, we considered multiple factors, including:

• Ease of use
• Durability
• Accuracy
• Ergonomics
• Bonus Features

Our team planned comparison points and specifically looked for products that would cater to all kinds of needs. We spent countless hours researching, consulting customer reviews, and comparing features to come up with this list.

Metal Detector Reviews

Garrett ACE 300i (Editor’s Choice)

Ergonomic and easy to use, this attractive metal detector comes with everything a hobbyist needs to get started. Weighing only 5.19 pounds and equipped with a useful arm strap, this is a product you can use for long periods of time without rest. The durable construction is also perfect for withstanding all kinds of weather conditions.

The Garrett ACE 300i metal detector is a popular choice for enthusiasts, with a range of capabilities to explore. This product comes with five searching modes, so you can focus on looking for things like relics or coins. There’s also the option to turn the sensitivity levels up and down at the push of a button. The easy-to-use interface includes a reliable digital screen.

A 12-segment level indicator and a set of lock rings offer you a more precise experience. The disc also includes state-of-the-art technology, so you’re less likely to miss out on great finds.

Minelab Equinox 800 (Luxury Choice)

A robust and resilient choice for metal detecting fans, this model comes with sturdy construction and a weight of only 2.96 pounds. Operating at a frequency of 40 kHz, it can adapt to various target types and ground conditions. Simply set your detecting location on the digital screen, and you’ll be ready to go.

The Minelab Equinox 800 is a highly customisable device with a selection of four detecting modes to choose from, including a “gold” option. There’s also the ability to set up eight custom search profiles to suit your needs. With fast and accurate performance, the LCD screen features large target numbers, so you can see information at a glance.

There’s the option to change your operating frequency at the push of a button, and this product can also connect with wireless audio devices. What’s more, for peace of mind, the item is waterproof when submerged up to 3 metres.

Wedigout Handheld (Best Value)

Ideal for those exploring the hobby of metal detecting for the first time, this high-sensitivity device is easy to use and set up. The product tunes itself automatically, so you don’t have to worry about learning how to use a complex screen. The pinpointer is also completely waterproof, with pulse detection technology for hunting metal in lakes and ponds.

The Wedigout Handheld metal detector is a convenient product with advanced circuitry so you can maintain detection distance at any power level. The pinpointer allows for precision discovery, so you can find exactly where certain items might be before digging. There’s also a flash and vibration to let you know when you’ve found something.

With no switches necessary, you can simply point the pin upwards to switch the item off automatically one minute after the last item detection. What’s more, the system is built to last, with stainless steel hardware throughout.

DR.ÖTEK Lightweight (Best for Versatility)

This high-quality kit is ideal for people who want to take their hobby to the next level. Not only do you get a premium metal detector, but the package also includes a digger tool, rain cover, and carrying bag. You can scan for objects from 2 to 8 inches into the ground with adjustable depth options.

The DR.ÖTEK Lightweight metal detector is a flexible product with 5-grade sensitivity control, giving you more accuracy in every search. The 9.8-inch wide coil is powerful enough to locate a coin up to 10 inches underground. What’s more, this coil is waterproof, so it works well in shallow water.

This device comes with a large LCD display with a backlight so you can work in the dark. There are also three display options to help you identify whatever you’re detecting. Five upgraded programs allow you to look for jewellery, all metal, and various other items.

DR.ÖTEK Junior (Best for Children)

Great for youngsters getting into metal detection for the first time, this product was custom-made for children. The premium-quality item comes with a lightweight structure and easy-grip handle. There are also multiple searching options to choose from. In Disc mode, the colour of the middle LED will flash when it detects something. The pinpoint mode is excellent for accurately finding treasures.

The DR.ÖTEK Junior metal detector comes with a waterproof 21cm coil, so kids can use it in shallow water. There’s also a 71-94cm adjustable stem to accommodate youngsters of different heights. The kit even comes with a range of accessories, like a carry bag and digging tool for hunting. Plus, there’s a sand sifter for smaller discoveries.

The unique LED light on this product changes colour to indicate the presence of certain kinds of metal. There’s a blue light for gold and silver, green for coins, and red for iron.

Garrett at Pro (Best Easy to Assemble)

This fantastic metal detection kit comes with a lightweight coil and a set of headphones for focused tracking. The product has a resilient non-stick hosing and is water resistant for up to 3 metres, ideal for when you want to take your adventure into ponds and rivers. There’s also an adjustable arm strap to make the experience more ergonomic and comfortable.

The Garrett at Pro is a premium-level metal detector suitable for land and fresh or salt water. The convenient digital screen allows you to track the depth of your treasures from 2 up to 10 inches. There’s also the option to switch between four modes, including a custom program, coin tracking, Zero, or Pro. You can even turn your sensitivity levels up or down.

The enhanced audio features make it easier to determine when you’re coming into contact with a hidden object, particularly with the included headset. What’s more, everything is easy to put together, even for beginners.

Nokta Makro Simplex+ (Best Lightweight)

This durable metal detector weighs only 1.2 kilograms and is lightweight enough to take on any adventure. Simple enough for even novice users to understand, the item comes with a useful screen for tracking important information about your discoveries. What’s more, there are four preset search modes to choose from, including all metal, parks, beach, and plain.

The Nokta Makro metal detector is suitable for use on water and land, with waterproofing for up to 3 metres. This item comes with a clear, backlit screen so you can continue your hobby at any time of day. There’s also a great arm strap component to ensure the device is easy to carry.

With no complicated instructions to get used to, this item could be an ideal choice for people getting used to metal detecting for the first time. 

How to Choose a Metal Detector

When finding the ideal product for your needs, it’s important to think about your experience level. For beginners in the metal detecting space, choosing a lightweight and simple device is often better. Alternatively, professionals may want more frequencies and modes to explore. Here are a few other factors worth looking at when making your decision.

Ease of Use

If you’re new to metal detection, you’ll need a device that’s easy to operate. Most of the top products come with features for new users, like a clear, backlit screen showing information about your discoveries.

There are also various preset modes available from some items, so you can adjust your frequency and depth to different terrains. A good user’s manual can also be ideal for the initial setup.

Durability

As an accessory for outdoor hobbyists, your metal detector must withstand a range of elements, including wind and rain. Some of the more popular items available today come with waterproof components, so you can continue to search for treasures in ponds and lakes.

Many of these items also include a durable structure featuring stainless steel and other metals. Look for something resilient enough to withstand regular use.

Accuracy

A high degree of accuracy will be important for any metal detecting enthusiasts. If you want to ensure you can find exactly where each treasure is, you may need to look for a “pinpoint” mode on your model. It’s also worth examining whether you can set your frequency to look for specific types of metal. The option to change depth and sensitivity can also be useful for achieving precision.

Ergonomics

Finding something hidden within the sand or dirt in a specific location can take time. It’s important to ensure you can comfortably hold onto your detector for as long as it takes. A lightweight device will be easier to transport to a range of environments. It’s also a good idea to look for a product with an arm strap you can adjust to give you extra support.

Bonus Features

Some of the top metal detectors on the market today also come with a range of additional features and accessories. You can find products with a headset included so you can listen out for alerts. There are also items which include sifts and digging tools for excavating areas. Some items could also feature a backlit screen so you can continue to track information in the dark.

Summary

Our top pick from this list was the Garrett ACE 300i metal detector. This ergonomic and reliable model comes with a range of capabilities, including five searching modes. You can adjust the sensitivity levels at the touch of a button and track valuable information with the digital screen. State-of-the-art technology also ensures a precise and accurate experience on multiple terrains.