As the world of treasure hunting continues to gain popularity, we find ourselves searching for the best best metal detector to uncover buried riches. In 2024, with advancements in technology, the market is flooded with a variety of options, catering to beginners and experienced detectorists alike. This article will explore the top 10 metal detectors available on Amazon, accompanied by in-depth reviews and a comprehensive buying guide to ensure you make the right choice.
Buying Guide for the Best Metal Detector
Before diving into the reviews, it’s crucial to understand what makes a metal detector exceptional. Here are some key factors to consider when shopping for the best metal detector:
1. Type of Metal Detector
- VLF (Very Low Frequency): These are popular for their sensitivity to small objects and are great for coin shooting and relic hunting.
- PI (Pulse Induction): Better for beach and underwater searches, these detectors can penetrate saltwater and offer excellent depth.
- Multi-Frequency: These models can detect a variety of metals and are suitable for various terrains.
2. Weight and Ergonomics
- Look for a detector that is lightweight and comfortable to use for extended periods. A well-balanced design will make a significant difference.
3. Depth Indicator
- Knowing how deep a metal object is buried can save time and effort. Choose a detector with a reliable depth indicator.
4. Sensitivity and Discrimination
- High sensitivity helps in finding smaller targets, while discrimination allows you to filter out unwanted metals, thus saving you time in the field.
5. Headphones Compatibility
- Many detectors come with headphone jacks. Using headphones can enhance your experience by blocking out background noise and allowing you to hear faint signals.
6. Price Range
- Determine your budget. While there are high-end models out there, many affordable options perform excellently for beginners.
Top 10 Metal Detectors on Amazon
1. Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector
The Garrett AT Pro is regarded as one of the best best metal detectors of 2024. With its all-terrain capabilities, this VLF detector is suitable for beach, land, and even shallow water searches. The AT Pro features a digital target ID, which helps you identify the type of metal before digging.
This metal detector offers two modes: Pro Mode and Standard Mode. Pro Mode is ideal for advanced users, allowing for enhanced sensitivity and target identification. It also boasts an impressive depth range, detecting coins up to 12 inches deep. The build quality is robust, making it a favorite among treasure hunters.
- Includes 8.5 x 11 In. PROformance DD submersible search coil
- Includes premium volume-control land headphones (waterproof headphones sold separately)
- AT PRO will ground balance to saltwater
2. Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector
The Minelab Equinox 800 is another excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for versatility. This multi-frequency detector operates at four different frequencies simultaneously, making it perfect for various metal types. Its advanced target separation technology helps detect items even in trashy areas.
This model’s waterproof capability extends up to 10 feet, allowing for underwater treasure hunting. Users appreciate its lightweight design and customizable settings, which make it suitable for both novices and seasoned detectorists.
3. Fisher F22 Metal Detector
The Fisher F22 is an excellent entry-level metal detector designed for simplicity and performance. With a user-friendly interface, this detector is ideal for beginners looking for their first device. It features 4 detection modes and a 10-segment target identification system.
Weighing only 2.3 pounds, the F22 is super portable and easy to handle. It also includes a weather-resistant design, ensuring durability in various conditions. The automatic ground balance feature is a significant advantage, helping beginners focus on detecting rather than adjusting settings.
- ALL PURPOSE METAL DETECTOR: Weatherproof metal detector that can detect Jewelry, Coins, and Artifacts on land and shallow water. Finds metal targets on the surface and buried up to nine inches deep.
- TREASURE HUNT IN ANY CONDITION: This metal detector is weatherproof for use in the harshest weather and environments. Rain or shine, this metal detector can find treasure.
- JUST TURN-ON-AND-GO: A metal detector made for adults but easy enough for a child to operate. Easy-to-use features like discrimination, sensitivity, notch, and pinpoint make finding treasures buried deep underground a breeze.
- ACCURATE ALL METAL DETECTORS: This underground detector distinguishes between valuable targets and unwanted metals. Quickly identify all types of buried targets by Target Categories and a 0-99 numeric Target-ID, enhanced with a 4-Tone Audio-ID System.
- LIGHTWEIGHT ERGONOMIC & COMFORTABLE: This well-balanced weatherproof metal detector weighs approximately 2 pounds and has a padded hand grip and arm cup for comfortable treasure hunting.
4. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is an ideal budget option for newcomers. This affordable detector comes with a straightforward design and simple controls, making it easy to operate. With an impressive sensitivity range, it detects coins, relics, and jewelry effectively.
Its discrimination control allows users to filter out unwanted metals, enhancing its efficiency in the field. The lightweight design ensures comfort during long search sessions, and the device is built to withstand rugged environments.
- Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
- Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode
- Preset ground balance neutralizes response to mineral content in the ground
- Disc/notch control distinguishes between targets and unwanted metals
- Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
5. Nokta Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector
The Nokta Makro Simplex+ is one of the most user-friendly metal detectors on the market. It features a fully submersible design, allowing for underwater searches up to 10 feet deep. Its wireless headphones and Bluetooth compatibility also add to its convenience.
This detector offers multiple search modes, including Park, Field, and Beach modes, making it versatile for different terrains. The build quality is commendable, and users report excellent target separation, making it a reliable choice for all levels of expertise.
- WATERPROOF metal detectors for adults: The Nokta Simplex Ultra boasts all new aesthetics, enhanced technical performance, and is fully waterproof up to 16 ft (5 m).
- FULLY CARBON FIBER: Simplex Ultra is a solid product with its carbon fiber Shaft. The Simplex Shaft is very durable besides its aesthetic appearance. Shaft retracts down to 25'' (63 cm). Great for easy transport, storage as well as diving!
- ONLINE FIRMWARE UPDATES: Stay up-to-date with firmware updates (via USB on PC) and get the most out of your detector.
- Lightweight (2.6 Ibs / 1.2 kg): Well balanced - Enjoy detecting for extended hours without fatigue.
- Handheld Metal Detector with Vivid COLOR LCD Screen: The high-resolution color LCD screen provides all the essential information you need right before your eyes. Our user-friendly interface ensures effortless access to settings and adjustments, making pinpointing targets hassle-free.
6. Teknetics Delta 4000 Metal Detector
The Teknetics Delta 4000 offers an impressive blend of performance and affordability. With an LCD display, this detector features real-time target identification, depth indicator, and sensitivity control. Its 11-inch search coil covers more ground, enhancing detection efficiency.
This metal detector embraces ease of use, catering to both beginner and intermediate users. The adjustable cam lock is a nice feature for customizing the height, ensuring a comfortable fit. Overall, the Delta 4000 sets itself apart with its reliable performance.
- User-friendly metal detector ideal for coin shooting, relic hunting, and gold prospecting
- Large, easy-to-read LCD display with 2-digit numerical target ID system
- Running depth indicator identifies target depths from 0 to 8 inches
- Discrimination and All Metals modes; 3-tone audio discrimination
- Runs for up to 25 hours on single 9-volt battery; 7.8 kHz operating frequency
7. Whites Treasure Pro Metal Detector
The Whites Treasure Pro is a feature-rich metal detector that offers excellent performance for both beginners and seasoned hunters. It comes with multiple search modes and an adjustable discrimination feature to pinpoint valuable targets amid trash.
One standout aspect is its large, easy-to-read LCD screen, which displays depth, target ID, and sensitivity settings. This model provides a 10-inch waterproof search coil designed for various terrains. Users appreciate the comfort of the ergonomic handle, ensuring fatigue-free use.
- TOP METAL DETECTOR FOR ADULTS. This adults metal detector kit is an exciting new addition for both professionals and enthusiasts. Offers 5 upgraded modes including Pinpoint Mode, All Metal, Discrimination, Memory, and Jewelry. Innovative Memory Mode allows you to only detect one metal type that you want. Locate exactly what you want in far less time.
- LARGE METAL DETECTOR LCD DISPLAY has a big clear 3" x 2.2" screen that is easy to read. Backlight lets you work in the dark for a great deal more flexibility. 3 display modes to easily identify the type of metals you are detecting. Displays digital image and sound with multiple settings for customization.
- 9.8" WIDE SEARCH COIL is so powerful it can locate a quarter coin up to 10" underground. This waterproof metal detector can find larger objects at even greater depths. The coil is IP68 waterproof and works well in shallow water.
- ADJUSTABLE STEM & SENSITIVITY. 42.7" to 53.5" adjustable length suits adults of different heights and is also suitable for kids. With 5-level sensitivity, you can adjust the sensitivity to counteract some interference factors and find the target faster. Spend far less time detecting while finding more exciting precious metals and antique artifacts.
- PERFECT GIFT WITH ACCESSORIES. You can get more than an outdoor metal detector and including a premium headset, a heavy-duty digger shovel and a multipurpose carrying bag. Save your extra time for purchase. Not only an excellent choice for travel, vacations, camping trips, and outings but also a great birthday gift, holiday present, anniversary gift or give for Father's Day and Mother's Day.
8. XP DEUS Metal Detector
The XP DEUS is a top-of-the-line option for serious treasure hunters. This advanced detector is wireless, offering exceptional features like adjustable frequencies and a built-in rechargeable battery. Its lightweight carbon shaft design allows for easy transportation and prolonged use.
Users appreciate the high-frequency setting for gold prospecting and the fast recovery speed for identifying targets in dense areas. With customizable programs and settings, this detector caters to advanced users seeking in-depth analysis for their finds.
9. Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector
The Garrett ACE 300 is a beginner-friendly metal detector that has quickly gained popularity among hobbyists. Equipped with a powerful 8.5×11 inch search coil, it offers excellent sensitivity, allowing for effective detection of coins, jewelry, and relics.
This model features five search modes and a clear LCD screen that displays target ID and depth. Additionally, the ACE 300 has a lightweight design, making it a breeze to carry. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting to start their treasure hunting adventure.
- Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector with submersible Searchcoil
- Includes 3 FREE Accessories:
- Volume control Garrett ClearSound Easy Stow headphones
- ACE Environmental Coverup
- 7" x 10" Searchcoil Cover
10. Makro Multi-Kruzer Metal Detector
The Makro Multi-Kruzer is a feature-packed metal detector adaptable for various environments, including underwater. It boasts advanced discrimination, sensitivity control, and several search modes tailored for land and beach detection.
The Multi-Kruzer’s comfortable grip and lightweight construction make it suitable for extended hunting sessions. It also includes a rechargeable battery, offering the convenience of not needing to buy replacements regularly. Overall, it’s an excellent addition for anyone serious about metal detecting.
Conclusion
Finding the best best metal detector may require some input and consideration, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. The top 10 metal detectors reviewed above demonstrate a range of features suitable for any treasure enthusiast, from beginners to veterans.
When making your purchase, consider what environment you will be using your detector in and what specific features are most valuable to you. Happy hunting, and may your next find be exceptional!