Metallurgical Content
Bronze age necklaces, golden chalices, and meteorites are just some of the amazing discoveries that metal detectors have uncovered. For many detectorists, it all comes down to having the right tools for the job. So before you can start unearthing long-lost artifacts, you’ll need to educate yourself on the best metal detectors available.
We’ve compiled a list of the best units, covering a variety of different technologies, terrains, budgets, abilities, and features which will prove to be valuable for everyone, beginners, intermediates, and experts alike.
Metal detectors are not all created equal. Depending on where you plan on hunting or what types of terrain you have access to, you will need to have a metal detector that possesses the required features for that type of location. We’ve reviewed over 911 articles and compiled a list of our top choices which are suited for different environments and metals. Some of the materials and locations we have considered include:
For example, you can usually use any type of metal detector on the beach. However, the performance of your metal detector is determined by technology and any additional features that your detector may have. Metal detectors designed specifically for the beach usually can provide accurate target ID in mineralized soil as well as being submersible in water.
While it may be tempting to get out and start searching for treasures straight away, you have to remember that different locations and areas have different laws and regulations surrounding metal detecting. So we recommend that you look into them before starting your metal detecting adventure, in order to avoid fines and other consequences.
- Canada: https://detectingschool.com/metal-detecting-in-canada/
- US: http://www.mdhtalk.org/maps/fp-map-regulations.htm
To determine the 14 best metal detectors available, we have analyzed customer consumer reports and listened to recommendations from experienced detectorists with knowledge of the particular features that make these products indispensable. We then used Fakespot to remove any products with high numbers of false reviews to uncover the best possible choices for you.
Terminology and Definitions
All Metal – A setting found on most standard metal detectors. This mode allows you to search for all kinds of metals rather than focussing on one in particular.
Coin Depth Indicator – This handy indicator measures the depth of coins/coin-sized objects and displays the numerical value on the metal detector’s visual display.
Discrimination – You’ll hear this word a lot in the world of detecting. To put it in the simplest of terms, discrimination is a filter to pick up certain metals and disregard others.
Ferrous – If we refer to a metal being ferrous, it means that the magnetic metal is made from, or contains iron.
Ground Balance – In the art of metal detecting, ground balance is paramount. It can be adjusted manually or automatically (depending on the device) to reduce interference that ground mineralization has on metal targets.
Mineralized Ground – When we talk about mineralized ground, we’re referring to soil that contains non-conductive or conductive properties which directly influence metal detector tuning and depth penetration.
Non-Ferrous – See Ferrous, flip it.
Pinpointing – This refers to reducing the target to a smaller area. Most modern metal detectors have a pinpoint function but we would recommend looking into buying a dedicated pinpointer.
PI (Pulse Induction) – Pulse Induction is a technology that most underwater metal detectors use. This type of detector ignores both conductive and non-conductive minerals simultaneously by pulsing the receiver amplifier off before the response from wetted salts and iron oxides can reach the search coil winding.
Target – When we mention a target, we’re referring to any hidden or buried object that a metal detector responds to.
VLF (Very Low Frequency) – This is the most common type of technology used in a metal detector. It works by running electricity through a coil wire. When you pass over a target the frequency is broken and the detector will emit a sound.
1. Best Metal Detectors for Gold
Gold prospecting can be the most challenging yet rewarding task there is amongst the metal detecting community, however, the days of spending hours gold panning are now unnecessary as there are a handful of metal detectors out there specifically designed for gold with all the capabilities you need to expand your search and unearth your hidden fortune.
A few things to consider when hunting for gold is that your product works well in high ground mineralization, is it important that your detector can find gold amongst iron ore making it easier to pick up both large and smaller nuggets without too much signal interference. A waterproof search coil and frequencies over 25 Khz are perfect for finding gold, heavier machines can be a bit tough however in your long days in the field so be sure to check the right size detector for you.
Minelab Gold Monster 1000
The Minelab Gold Monster 1000 is entry-level in design, yet high-end in terms of performance. It’s built using extra sensitive VLF technology so that it balances out sensitivity in order to find small gold while remaining stable enough in mineralized ground. The sensitivity of this device adapts automatically depending on the mineralization of the soil, however, this can be adjusted manually when needed.
When detecting, there are 6 volume levels to choose from. There are also 2 detecting modes: gold (iron reject) and deep all-metal. For ease of use, this detector features a handy gold chance indicator so that you know whether it’s even worth searching in a particular area, saving you valuable time. Operating this detector is straightforward thanks to its fully automatic design and quick-start process. You can even detect in different weather conditions thanks to the rain-proof control box.
Features:
- VLF single frequency | 45 kHz
- 2 detect modes
- Auto tracking ground balance
- Waterproof search coil
- LCD display
- Universal shaft adapter
What we love:
- Good for both beginner and intermediate metal detectorists
- Compact and lightweight so it’s easy to handle
- Does particularly well when detecting gold in compromised and deep soil
We don’t like this as much:
- Since it’s not multi-purpose, this detector is better suited for finding gold than other materials
Fisher Gold Bug Pro
The Fisher Gold Bug Pro has a unique aspect that other gold prospecting detectors don’t usually accompany; it also serves as an all-purpose machine, meaning it is capable of finding all kinds of treasure that a detectorist may seek out on their travels. However, the true beauty of this detector’s capabilities are with how well the 5inch search coil can detect the smallest of gold nuggets, especially in high ground mineralization areas.
Fisher research labs use an elegant approach when it comes to their technology which is proven by the Gold bugs pro’s ground balancing and dicrimination control systems, which are great features for hunting coins and relics. As well as an independent control over threshold & gain, the Fisher gold bug pro is an ultra light-weight detector that performs at a very high standard making this special piece of kit one of the best in the business.
Features:
- Frequency: 19kHz.
- Manual and computerized Ground balance
- VLF Induction balance
- Arc detector stand
- Independent threshold and gain adjustments
- Static pinpoint & Depth indicator
What we love:
- High-end performance at a mid-range price
- Brilliant sensitivity to tiny gold nuggets
- Signal strength indication
We don’t like this as much:
- Doesn’t have an arm strap
Garrett AT Gold
The Garrett AT Gold is a waterproof unit that is useful for shallow freshwater wading. It is submersible up to 10ft too so you can take it comfortably into streams and lakes. This gives you a greater accessible area where you can potentially find jewelry, coins, and perhaps go cache hunting. With its electronic pinpointing, you can better locate these different targets in a variety of environments.
There are also 3 search modes to use to make it easier to adapt the metal detector to suit your needs. It also features the True All-Metal Mode that is highly preferred for prospecting due to the high sensitivity and depth. Besides that, this unit is designed with manual and automatic ground balance as well as a Ground Balance Window to better optimize the detector and how well it performs in highly mineralized ground. The various ID tones can further help you find treasure while sorting out the trash.
Features:
- 18 kHz frequency
- 20 target ID cursor segments
- Adjustable length
- 8 sensitivity/depth adjustments
- 3 search modes
- 3 level audio tone ID
What we love:
- Easy to handle over long distances
- Helpful iron audio feature
- Good adjustable length range so it is comfortable to use no matter your height
We don’t like this as much:
- Might take some time to learn how to use and navigate the features
2. Best Metal Detectors for Relic Hunting
Is there any bigger thrill than discovering a lost part of history? Civil war memorabilia, religious artifacts, and old weapons are just some of the forgotten relics that your detector can uncover in the new age. For metal detecting enthusiasts, relic hunting can make you feel like Indiana Jones trekking through all types of scenarios in multiple terrains. Whilst it differs from coin shooting and gold mining, treasure hunting for relics can often make your experience the most memorable.
Unlike other machines, you will want a tough product capable of handling all types of terrain as it can take you far off the beaten track for quite some time. The most important feature when it comes to hunting relics is good discrimination which allows you to separate targets effectively and therefore notching out/separating the trash from the treasure.
Minelab Equinox 800
The Minelab Equinox 800 is a sleek metal detector ideal for hunting down relics. It has a multi-frequency and single frequency design for high-performance use. Alongside that, it boasts 4 detecting modes: beach, field, park, and gold. This makes it easy to adapt to various conditions so you can take your treasure hunt anywhere. The unit has quality waterproof protection as well, so don’t be afraid to get closer to the water or head into muddy or wet soil.
There are advanced audio settings so you control how much target information you want to hear, and it even has a wireless set up so you can hook up a Bluetooth device. This makes the detector ideal for submerging when detecting around rivers and streams. Once you have your favorite settings in, you can use any of the 8 custom search profiles to save them.
Features:
- Multi-IQ | 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz, 40 kHz
- LCD display
- Bluetooth compatibility
- Waterproof design
- 4 detecting modes
- Accurate Target ID
What we love:
- Recharges well to deliver hours’ worth of power
- Sends out clear audible tones
- Has fast recovery
We don’t like this as much:
- Could have better ergonomics so that it’s easier to swing
Nokta Makro ANFIBIO 14
The Nokta Makro ANFIBIO 14 is a quality metal detector best suited for hunting coins and relics on both land and in underwater environments. It has waterproof protection up to 16.4ft with wireless audio capabilities deriving from its Bluetooth connectivity. The various search modes give you more room to explore different environments too. Its 6 modes include: 3 tone, 2 tone, all-metal, beach, deep mode (DEP), and discrimination.
The detector’s advanced beach mode will provide you with more stability as you operate in dry sand, wet sand, or venture beneath the water. As a mid-range unit, it provides other high-performance features such as automatic, tracking, and manual ground balancing. Despite the abundance of features, navigating through these is straightforward thanks to the single-menu design that can save you valuable time out in the field.
Features:
- 14 kHz frequency
- Bluetooth compatibility
- 8 search modes
- Advanced Beach Mode
- Telescopic shaft
- Waterproof search coil
What we love:
- Long battery life
- Quality waterproof protection
- Versatile search modes
We don’t like this as much:
- Could benefit from search flashlight for underwater use
Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro
With the Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro, detectorists get many useful features all in a cost-effective package. There is a pinpoint mode to use with a depth indicator so that you have a better chance at detecting quality objects. You can also alternate among the other search modes to adapt the unit to any specific targets. These modes include discrimination, no motion, and motion.
On the topic of discrimination, there are 6 modes with 3 of them being preset and the others being manual. The built-in modes are ideal for beginners to help them better understand the unit. Meanwhile, the others provide greater control for experienced detectorists to get the most use out of the detector.
Features:
- 7 search modes
- 5-segment active depth indicator
- 4 audio ID tones
- Pinpoint mode
- 1-button ground grab ground balance
- 43 target ID icons
What we love:
- User-friendly 1-button Ground Grab ground balancing feature
- Durable build
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
We don’t like this as much:
- Pinpoint button may lose contact when you try to hold it down
3. Best Metal Detector for Beginners
With there being a vast selection of metal detectors to choose from in today’s market, finding the best one for you to get started may take consideration. Finding your feet in this industry usually starts with trekking around the backyard and hitting the local parks in search of your first discovery.
In this shortlist we have put together the best metal detectors for beginners with a few extra features to set the standard and improve on the quality of discovery. Often aspiring detectorists look for a sturdy, cheap, and versatile unit with the capabilities of unearthing treasure including jewelry, coins, and old artifacts. We believe these products to be the best in the business for sending you on your travels, focusing on key features such as good discrimination, search modes, and an overall comfortable lightweight experience without spending hours learning different modes and functions.
Bounty Hunter Tracker IV
For those new to metal detecting, the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV is a good starter detector that won’t be too difficult to learn. It’s affordable and contains all the necessary features to serve as a good all-purpose unit that you can take out to the backyard or to the park. The overall appearance is just as streamlined as its use. It has a simple intensity meter display, dual-tone discrimination, and both discrimination control and sensitivity adjustment.
This detector is ideal to use in various environments, and with its waterproof search coil, you can use it around damp ground areas without worry. There are two hunting modes, discrimination and all-metal, and automatic ground balancing so you aren’t frustrated trying to adapt between the two. This device even comes equipped with two distinct audio tones to quickly alert you to the different metals detected.
Features:
- VLF single frequency | 6.8 kHz
- Automatic ground tracking
- 2 search modes
- Analog display
- Internal speaker
- 2-tone audio discrimination
What we love:
- 2 knobs for easy adjusting of the discrimination and sensitivity levels
- Lightweight design makes it easier to swing and carry around for hours
- Long battery life
We don’t like this as much:
- A bit of a learning curve to not get false positives
Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 is one of the more affordable units that you can still take out to a variety of locations. It’s environmentally sealed so that you can bring it to tougher environments as well as more straightforward ones. For versatility, it has 4 modes of operation: artifact, custom, coin, and jewelry. You can readily separate the trash from the treasure too, using the 9-segment visual and numerical target ID.
Alongside that, this detector offers 20-level sensitivity control so you can further adapt to changing ground conditions. This has an easy-to-read iron identifier icon and a ground mineralization readout to make your time out hunting a less stressful process, more so for those just starting out. Also, you get a comfortable 30-hour battery life for extended treasure hunting adventures.
Features:
- VLF single frequency | 7.69 kHz
- 4 search modes
- Waterproof search coil
- 20-level adjustable volume
- 9-segment visual target ID
- 4-tone audio ID
What we love:
- Accurate depth perception
- Comfortable to swing for long hunting trips
- Good weatherproof capabilities
We don’t like this as much:
- May require a steep learning curve for some
Garrett ACE 300
For beginners and intermediate users who need a comfortable learning curve, consider the Garrett ACE 300. It’s geared toward coin and relic hunting, making it ideal for general use. This detector also features multiple search modes so you can change things up depending on what you’re searching for. You can use the jewelry mode, zero discrimination mode (all-metal), relics mode, coin mode, custom mode, and pinpoint mode.
As an all-purpose unit, you can even take it out for freshwater wading rather than sticking to dry land. You may even cut down on your search time thanks to the quality 3-tone detection and 4 different iron discrimination segments. Its reliable battery also boasts a 20 to 40-hour life so if you want to walk around for longer to find more hidden treasures, you can without worrying about the detector running out of power.
Features:
- VLF single frequency | 8 kHz
- 12 target ID segments
- 6 search modes
- Adjustable discrimination
- Fixed ground balance
- 3 distinctive tones
What we love:
- Quality depth penetration to make it easier to find high conductivity targets
- Well-balanced design
- Ergonomic set up for ease of use
We don’t like this as much:
- Could have better trash discrimination
NALANDA MD056
The NALANDA MD056 is a valuable metal detector that can serve as a fantastic unit for beginner and intermediate detectorists. It has high sensitivity with 5 sensitivity levels for deeper and more reliable indications. This unit features a quality LCD display that provides you with everything you need to know, such as the possible metal type and the target depth. When you detect something, the sound discrimination system has 4 different tones that can be used. Also, you can adjust the volume across 3 different levels to find what best suits your needs.
There are 4 main search modes to use: all-metal, memory, custom, and disc. Alongside that, there is also a pinpoint mode that you can turn on. When you’re hunting, both the length and the coil angle are adjustable to suit a variety of conditions, which makes this an ideal multipurpose detector.
Features:
- 18 kHz frequency
- 5 sensitivity segments
- 6 signal strength indicator segments
- 4 search modes (plus 1)
- Waterproof search coil
- 4 sound frequency tones
What we love:
- Compact for easy portability
- Quality and accurate pinpoint feature
- Easy to put together
We don’t like this as much:
- The recovery of this device seems a bit slow
4. Best Metal Detector for the Beach
Beaches can be the most exciting places to detect metal, on average 189 million people visit American coastlines each year so the potential of discovering lost gold rings or forgotten precious jewelry is extremely likely. Beaches regardless of popularity can also play host to foreign artifacts washing up from distant lands, therefore making the beach a destination you’ll want to visit with your metal detector on a regular basis.
Owning a multi-frequency detector will allow you to use multiple frequencies simultaneously, giving you an advanced search from small to larger objects at a variety of depths. As well as ground balancing, ground tracking is also a smart feature for beach detectorists, detecting all types of earth from mineralized soil to dry and wet sand, providing you with the best outcome. Although you only (in theory) need a waterproof search coil, a fully waterproof metal detector is highly advised to avoid the risk of damaging your item being so close to the sea.
Garrett ATX Pro Deepseeker
The Garrett ATX Pro Deepseeker is an all-terrain detector designed to function just as well on land as it does underwater without compromising on quality. It features a wide ground balance range from ferrous soil to salty ground. You can also choose from 4 ground track settings and alternate through motion, non-motion, and pinpoint search modes. This unit can change modes seamlessly so you don’t have to waste any time.
It’s also comfortable for those who are hearing impaired to use thanks to the adjustable volume control. At the same time, this adjustable control can help you pick out those fainter signals. There is also an external waterproof speaker so you don’t have to completely rely on the headphones to catch signals. The detector further indicates signal strength and settings using LED indicators.
Features:
- Pulse induction
- 3 search modes
- Adjustable audio threshold
- 13 sensitivity depth adjustments
- 25 adjustable discrimination settings
- Submersible up to 10ft
What we love:
- Well-designed automatic ground tracking
- Collapses well for storage and transport
- Durable and waterproof for extreme conditions
We don’t like this as much:
- Bluetooth capabilities would be helpful for underwater detection
Minelab Excalibur II
The Minelab Excalibur II is an underwater / Beach detector that features Minelabs’ BBS Multiple frequency technology. This unique design works in and out of water allowing you to search more effectively on dry land as well as underwater, finding more targets than ever. The Excalibur II comes with an automatic ground tracking feature to reject any trash you find along the way, making your saltwater excursions much more productive.
The Minelabs Excalibur II is fully submersible up to 200ft and comes with a 10-inch coil to improve ground balance by reducing the weight. With an effective discrimination feature, you will be able to search deeper than ever before making this detector a must have for treasure seeking beach goers.
Features:
- Broad band spectrum (BBS) Technology
- Low battery alert
- Automatic Ground rejection
- High visibility Fluorescent decal & coil cover
- Fully Waterproof | Submersible up to 200ft
- Adjustable Threshold
What we love:
- No interference from saltwater
- Accurate discrimination
- Impressive Depth
We don’t like this as much:
- You need experience in diving
5. Best Metal Detector for Underwater
If you’re considering detecting underwater, there are a few features that are important to acknowledge before you dive right in. When fully submerged, a metal detector often requires Pulse Induction technology that uses a single coil as both receiver and transmitter.
PI sends electricity through the coil, causing magnetism. When the bursts of electricity end, the magnetic field reverses polarity and shuts down, producing a sharp electric spike causing another current to run through the coil.
PI units are very powerful machines that have excellent depth in search as well as being unaffected by high levels of mineralization and Saltwater. VLF products on the other hand are usually equipped with a good discrimination feature which works very well In freshwater but not in saltwater.
Although most underwater detectors function the same, some differ in the following ways:
- Metal detector type: PI (Pulse Induction) | VLF (Very low frequency)
- Depth in search (how deep your device can be submerged)
- Search coil size
- Audio quality
- Discrimination
Garrett Sea Hunter MK-II
The Garrett Sea Hunter MK-II is your go-to detector for underwater hunting of relics, gold, and coins. Operating at 750 pulses per second, this detector does well at ignoring trash as well as saltwater and iron mineralization so you can find quality treasure at depths even deeper than 200ft. For comfort, while you’re using it, you can mount the control box on or above the hip as well as under or below the cuff. There are both short and long configuration options as well.
With 3 search modes, the unit does well at adapting to your situation. It has a discrete PI discrimination mode, a non-motion all-metal with adjustable PI discrimination mode, and a standard PI discrimination mode. The detector is very sturdy in order to withstand the uncertain conditions and water pressures you can face when underwater.
Features:
- 22 frequencies | pulse induction
- 3 search modes
- Submersible up to 250ft deep
- Adjustable armrest and shaft
- Underwater headphone jack
- Convertible control box mount
What we love:
- Floats well so you won’t lose it
- Good resistance in the water
- The setup process is fast and simple
We don’t like this as much:
- Could have better discrimination when used on land
JW Fishers Pulse 8X Version 2
The JW Fishers Pulse 8X Version 2 is a high-end metal detector with quality pulse induction technology intended for serious and seasoned hunters. It’s heavy-duty and features high sensitivity to support professional and commercial use. This unit is powered by an internal rechargeable battery for those day-long hunts. You can detect various types of metals as large as cannons and as small as coins, and it keeps a consistent performance on land and water (fresh and salt).
As the detector is sensitive to both large and small items, you can adjust the sensitivity with a single switch from low, to medium, and high. You can also alternate between 3 search modes: high search mode, medium search mode, and low search mode.
Features:
- 200ft depth rating
- PI technology
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Convertible control box mount
- 3 search modes
- Leak detection technology
What we love:
- Clear audio tones
- Does well at detecting ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Reliable commercial-grade construction
We don’t like this as much:
- Could benefit from slight buoyancy so that it doesn’t stay underwater
Buy from KellyCo: $2,419.00
Nokta PulseDive
The Nokta PulseDive is a unique scuba detector with the ability to transform into a pinpointer whenever necessary. This easy-to-use handheld machine comes equipped with a built-in LED flashlight, 5 levels of sensitivity, and a frequency shift option. With a loud internal speaker and a vibrating flash alert feature, a user will have no problem hearing or getting to grips with this product. The Nokta PulseDive is Perfect for a saltwater environment and is fitted with a lost alarm feature so if you do by chance lose it at sea, after 5 minutes the alarm will sound and the LEDs will flash.
Overall the PulseDive is an original, subtle, and very useful detector with a design that can really surprise you with its technical capabilities.
Features:
- Pulse Induction
- Submersible to 200ft
- Rapid retune
- Dive mode
- LED Flashlight
- Detection Alerts & Indicators
What we love:
- After a few minutes of no activity, the device admits the lost alarm feature.
- Free & easy to use when underwater
- Great performance in Saltwater
We don’t like this as much:
- No Headphone feature
FAQs About Metal Detectors
What metal detectors are best for finding gold?
The “best” detector is a highly subjective topic, but there are certain features to look for that allow one detector to perform better in certain situations. If you’re looking for gold, your best bet is to go either for a VLF machine or a PI machine for the sake of versatility, since you don’t always know the ground conditions.
However, PI metal detectors are also adept at gold hunting since they ignore mineralization better than their counterparts. They can also detect at far deeper depths, which can be helpful when trying to find those hard-to-reach gold nuggets. Keep in mind that these types of detectors are more expensive, however.
What metal detectors are best for the beach?
Metal detecting around water means there are different requirements to look for in your equipment. Primarily, you should consider detectors with multi-frequency or pulse induction frequencies.
VLF metal detectors are great for all-around usage and are a good introduction for those of you new to metal detecting. They do well on dry land and in freshwater. If you do take a device around saltwater, remember to use a machine with adjustable ground balance since VLF metal detectors tend to have false readings around wet and salty sand.
If you have the means to, you can instead opt for PI metal detectors for saltwater beaches, since they ignore salt better and can detect deeper in the surface.
No matter what type of metal detector you go for, look for ones with waterproof capabilities. Since you’re at the beach, the equipment will likely get wet. The whole machine can be waterproof to give you more peace of mind, or you can find a detector with a waterproof coil.
What metal detectors are best for hunting relics?
Metal detectors that feature ground adjustment controls and ground balance controls are the best for hunting relics. This helps you filter out interference from the natural minerals that the ground contains. As such, you’ll save a lot of time digging through trash.
Remember that with historical relics, you’re looking at items usually made from brass, iron, or steel. A lower frequency is best in this case since these materials have lower conductivity. Quality pinpointing controls are another useful feature, as they provide you with a better understanding of the location of the object so that you’ll know the precise location of where to start digging.
Wrap Up
Finding the best metal detector can take time, so we hope our reviews have opened up some doors for you to explore. Deciding on that “perfect” detector depends on several factors. Some are best for gold, others with relics, while additional detectors are great versatile machines. Consider the location of your hunt too. Are you going to be searching around bodies of water or sticking to dry land? How is the soil in the area?
Answering those questions will help you further narrow down your search. You can also keep your budget in mind as well as your skill level, since some detectors are ideal for seasoned users rather than novice hunters.
- Best Budget Option – Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector
- Best Mid-Range Option – Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II Metal Detector
- Best High-End Option – Garrett ATX Pro Deepseeker Metal Detector
