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10 Best Metal Detectors

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

XP Metal Detectors Deus II - 13x11 FMF Coil with MI-6 pinpointer Bundle - Waterproof and Fully Wireless - with Remote Control, & S-Telescopic stem (DEUS2-34FMFRCEG + MI-6)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,475
Frequency
Discrimination
Sensitivity
Frequency
The detector excels at locating targets even at significant depths, revealing coins and buttons around 11 inches underground.
Discrimination
This model outperforms entry-level detectors by reducing unwanted iron signals, offering a noticeable improvement in target detection.
Sensitivity
Adjusting the settings based on tutorials enhances performance, making it rewarding for users willing to invest time in learning.

The XP Metal Detectors Deus II with the MI-6 pinpointer is a cutting-edge metal detector designed to work well in many environments. Its standout feature is the fully wireless design, which makes detecting more comfortable without tangled wires. It uses a Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) system, allowing you to choose from 12 preset programs or 49 single frequencies between 4 and 45 kHz. This flexibility helps with detecting various types of metals and working in different grounds, including tough mineralized or saltwater areas. The 13x11 cm coil size is a good balance, offering enough coverage while still being easy to handle. Sensitivity can be adjusted, which helps fine-tune detection for better accuracy. The unit also has excellent waterproofing (IP68 rating), so you can use it underwater safely.

The MI-6 pinpointer is wireless and can be recalibrated on the go, improving target pinpointing without extra cables. However, the detector is somewhat pricey and may be best suited for serious hobbyists or professionals rather than casual users. Also, while it offers many advanced features, beginners might find the variety of frequency options a bit overwhelming at first. Its lightweight design and telescopic stem help with comfort during extended use.

For those needing a versatile, high-performance metal detector capable of handling varied terrains and desiring to avoid cable clutter, this model represents a strong choice.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,475
Frequency
Discrimination
Sensitivity
Frequency
The detector excels at locating targets even at significant depths, revealing coins and buttons around 11 inches underground.
Discrimination
This model outperforms entry-level detectors by reducing unwanted iron signals, offering a noticeable improvement in target detection.
Sensitivity
Adjusting the settings based on tutorials enhances performance, making it rewarding for users willing to invest time in learning.
#2

MINELAB MANTICORE High-Power Multi-IQ+ Waterproof Metal Detector Bundle for Adults — Includes 8

Rating
10.0
Frequency
Waterproofing
Frequency
Its multi-frequency technology combined with powerful audio feedback makes it effective in diverse environments, including underwater.
Waterproofing
The unit’s lightweight carbon fiber construction and full waterproofing up to 16 feet make it highly versatile for wet conditions.

The MINELAB MANTICORE is a high-power, professional-level metal detector featuring Multi-IQ+ technology, which offers 50% more power than typical models. It can scan using multiple frequencies simultaneously, enhancing its ability to locate a variety of targets ranging from small coins to deeper objects. Its advanced discrimination and 2D target ID allow users to quickly differentiate valuable finds from junk, reducing time spent digging unwanted items.

The detector comes with three coils (8", 11", and 15"), enabling users to switch between searching for small, shallow targets or going deeper in rough terrain, adding flexibility depending on the hunting environment. It is waterproof up to 16 feet, making it suitable for beach and underwater searches, ideal for treasure hunting in wet conditions. Sensitivity is customizable, and the device offers multiple search modes tailored to various environments like inland, beach, and gold fields. Additional features such as adjustable audio settings, backlit controls, and a built-in flashlight enhance usability in different lighting and noise conditions.

Weighing about 3 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for extended hunts. The bundle’s price and complexity make it more suited for serious hobbyists or professionals rather than beginners, and understanding all its options may require some time for new users. This detector is well-suited for experienced metal detector users or dedicated enthusiasts seeking powerful, versatile performance across diverse environments, including underwater. For those wanting a combination of advanced technology, rugged design, and multiple coil options, the MANTICORE is a solid choice.

Rating
10.0
Frequency
Waterproofing
Frequency
Its multi-frequency technology combined with powerful audio feedback makes it effective in diverse environments, including underwater.
Waterproofing
The unit’s lightweight carbon fiber construction and full waterproofing up to 16 feet make it highly versatile for wet conditions.
#3

XP Metal Detectors DEUS II RC - 13x11" FMF Coil with WSAII-XL wireless headphones bundle - waterproof and multifrequency metal detector with XP DEUS II Remote Control & S-Telescopic Stem

The XP Metal Detectors DEUS II RC with the 13x11" FMF coil and WSAII-XL wireless headphones is a strong choice for anyone looking for a versatile and modern metal detector. Its Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) technology allows it to operate on multiple frequencies, which helps in detecting a wide variety of metals in different types of soil. The 13x11" coil size strikes a good balance between coverage area and sensitivity, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. The detector is fully waterproof (IP68 rating), so you can confidently search in wet conditions or shallow water without worry. The wireless headphones add a lot of convenience, offering long battery life (up to 27 hours) and excellent sound quality with a customizable equalizer, useful if you’re in noisy environments like windy beaches.

At 1.9 kg, it’s fairly lightweight and comes with an adjustable telescopic stem, making it comfortable to use over long periods. While it requires three lithium polymer batteries, these are included, and the product has a solid 5-year warranty for peace of mind. This bundle is well-suited if you want a high-tech, weather-resistant detector with great audio features, though checking the details of discrimination or ground balance controls directly before buying is recommended if those features are important to you.

Buying Guide for the Best Metal Detectors

Choosing the right metal detector can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you're interested in treasure hunting or exploring the outdoors. The key to finding the perfect metal detector is understanding your needs and matching them with the right features. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced detectorist, knowing what to look for in terms of specifications will help you make an informed decision. Consider where you'll be using the detector, what types of metals you're interested in finding, and how often you plan to use it. This will guide you in selecting a model that suits your lifestyle and goals.
FrequencyFrequency in metal detectors refers to the number of times the detector's coil sends signals into the ground per second. It's important because different frequencies are better suited for detecting different types of metals. Lower frequencies (around 3-7 kHz) are ideal for detecting larger, deeper objects like coins and relics, while higher frequencies (above 15 kHz) are better for smaller, shallow targets like gold nuggets. If you're interested in general treasure hunting, a mid-range frequency (around 10 kHz) is a good choice. Consider what type of metal you are most interested in finding to choose the right frequency.
DiscriminationDiscrimination is the ability of a metal detector to distinguish between different types of metals. This feature is crucial for avoiding unwanted items like trash or iron when searching for valuable metals. Discrimination settings can be adjusted to ignore certain metals, allowing you to focus on specific targets. If you're searching in areas with a lot of metal debris, a detector with good discrimination capabilities will save you time and effort. Beginners might prefer a model with simple discrimination settings, while experienced users may opt for advanced discrimination features to fine-tune their searches.
Ground BalanceGround balance is a feature that helps metal detectors filter out signals from mineralized soil, which can interfere with detecting metals. This is important because different terrains have varying levels of mineralization, and a detector that can adjust to these conditions will perform better. There are automatic and manual ground balance options; automatic is easier for beginners, while manual allows more control for experienced users. If you plan to search in areas with highly mineralized soil, such as beaches or goldfields, a detector with effective ground balance is essential.
SensitivitySensitivity refers to a metal detector's ability to detect small or deep objects. Higher sensitivity settings can detect smaller or deeper targets, but they may also pick up more interference from the environment. It's important to find a balance that suits your search area and target size. If you're searching for small items like jewelry or gold, higher sensitivity is beneficial. However, if you're in a cluttered area with lots of metal debris, you might need to lower the sensitivity to avoid false signals. Adjust the sensitivity based on your specific needs and the environment.
Search Coil SizeThe search coil is the part of the metal detector that sends and receives signals. Coil size affects the depth and area covered during a search. Larger coils can cover more ground and detect deeper objects, making them ideal for open areas. Smaller coils are better for precision and detecting smaller items, especially in cluttered environments. If you're searching in wide open spaces, a larger coil will help you cover more ground quickly. For areas with lots of obstacles or when searching for small items, a smaller coil is more effective.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is a feature that allows metal detectors to be used in wet conditions or underwater. This is important for those who plan to search near water bodies or in rainy weather. Some detectors are fully waterproof, while others have waterproof coils only. If you intend to search in shallow water or on beaches, a fully waterproof detector is ideal. For occasional wet conditions, a detector with a waterproof coil may suffice. Consider where you'll be using the detector to determine the level of waterproofing you need.