TOP 20 best metal detectors: 2024-2025 ranking by search depth and which budget model to choose

Over the past few decades, such a hobby as the search for antiques and relics has become very popular.

The main tool in this activity is the metal detector, originally a military invention. What model would you recommend for a beginner? Are there devices suitable for underwater search?

What is the principle of operation of this device?

These are some of the questions you may face when deciding to buy a metal detector.

We have compiled a rating of the most reliable and popular devices for different skill levels in terms of price / quality ratio. The information was obtained from official sources - websites of manufacturing companies and forums with expert assessments.

We were able to identify not only the main parameters of the devices, but also create a list of their strengths and weaknesses.

Rating of the TOP-20 best metal detectors by search depth in 2024-2025

Place	Name	Price
TOP-4 of the best metal detectors by search depth by price/quality for 2024-2025
1	Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack	Ask for a price
2	Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT	Ask for a price
3	Makro Multi Kruzer	Ask for a price
4	Nokta&Makro Anfibio Multi	Ask for a price
TOP 4 best metal detectors for a beginner
1	Minelab Vanquish 440	Ask for a price
2	Bounty Hunter Tracker IV	Ask for a price
3	Minelab Go Find 66	Ask for a price
4	Bounty Hunter Fast Tracker	Ask for a price
TOP 4 best metal detectors with detection depth up to 1.5 meters
1	Minelab E-Trac (Pro package)	Ask for a price
2	XP Metal Detectors ORX	Ask for a price
3	Minelab Vanquish 340	Ask for a price
4	Minelab Go-Find 44	Ask for a price
TOP 4 best budget metal detectors
1	Bounty Hunter Discovery 2200	Ask for a price
2	Garrett ACE 200i	Ask for a price
3	Teknetics Eurotek	Ask for a price
4	Garrett ACE 150	Ask for a price
TOP 4 best underwater metal detectors
1	Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus	Ask for a price
2	Makro Kruzer	Ask for a price
3	Deteknix Quest Quest PRO	Ask for a price
4	Garrett At Max	Ask for a price

How to choose a metal detector?

When buying a metal detector, it is important to consider the main characteristics on which the operation of the device is based..

But first of all, it is important to determine for what level of user a metal detector is needed.

This will immediately indicate the price range of products. After that, you can move on to the rest of the options.

TOP-4 of the best metal detectors by search depth by price/quality for 2024-2025

Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack

One of the leaders in sales and positive customer reviews in 2024-2025 was this ground metal detector from Minelab.

It belongs to professional devices with good sensitivity to various non-ferrous and precious metals, and is also able to filter interference from extraneous, unnecessary objects that are not the object of search. Powered by four AA batteries, they last for 10 hours of autonomy.

The alert signal has a different tone and is output to the built-in speaker, there is also an output for headphones, which are not included in the package and are purchased separately.

The coil is waterproof, so it is suitable for searching in wet ground and can even be used in the surf on the beach. The device is very light, the rod is telescopic, moves apart up to 135 centimeters.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF
2. The maximum depth is up to 90 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is from 9 to 19.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT

Representative of professional metal detectors for work in dry and wet ground, as well as under water due to the high degree of protection against moisture. Powered by four AA batteries, the charge is consumed sparingly, autonomy is maintained up to 20 hours.

There is both automatic ground balancing and manual.

The powerful radiation of the elliptical coil allows you to search for objects located at a depth of up to three meters, while not being distracted by the noise of foreign objects.

The kit includes a pinpointer that can be used when discrimination is disabled.

Sensitivity can also be adjusted to suit your needs.The sound signal is fed into the headphones, which are included in the package. Comfortable armrest and low weight ensure comfortable use even after several hours of work.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 15.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

Makro Multi Kruzer

Reliable hand-held metal detector, which is suitable for searching for objects not only in ground, but also under water, as the device is completely sealed.

Autonomous metal detector makes its own battery, the capacity of which is enough to provide up to 19 hours of work. It takes about six to seven hours to charge. There is an automatic ground balance and the ability to set it manually.

Sound notification is sent to the built-in speaker and wireless headphones, which are included in the kit.

Thanks to good radiation from the search coil, the detection depth of large objects reaches one meter, and small objects - up to 50 centimeters, which is a very good indicator for such a versatile device.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 19.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

Nokta&Makro Anfibio Multi

Another popular professional metal detector for ground and underwater work, with a comfortable armrest and a small screen.

Autonomy up to 19 hours is provided by its own battery, which takes about six hours to charge. The package includes wireless headphones, the signal volume is not adjustable.

Due to the fact that the coil and the entire body have a high level of protection against water, which does not affect the sensitivity of the device, it shows good results both on wet ground, and on the coast, and under water..

The detection depth reaches one and a half meters. There is sensitivity adjustment, discrimination, automatic and manual ground balancing. Management is quite simple, maximally adapted to the user.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to 1.5 meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 20.
4. Weight - 1.7 kg.

TOP 4 best metal detectors for a beginner

Minelab Vanquish 440

One of the best representatives of ground metal detectors for a beginner, both with simple and and with wider settings.

The butterfly-shaped coil is protected from moisture, so it can be used in wet ground and on the beach, but the device cannot be immersed under water - there is no moisture protection for the power supply and display.

Powered by four AA batteries, the set is enough for 8 hours of continuous searching.

In addition to the protection for the coil, the package includes detailed instructions and a rain cover. All settings and indicators are displayed on a small screen without backlight, there is discrimination that allows you not to be distracted by extraneous interference.

The sound signal is output to the built-in speaker, there is an output for headphones, which are purchased separately.

In addition to the native coil, you can put others from third-party manufacturers.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to one meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - multi-frequency.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

Bounty Hunter Tracker IV

An American-made product that is affordable and with positive ratings from users.

A great option for newbies in the search, as there is one, understandable and effective, program for detecting valuable items. It does not require a long time to understand the settings, without a screen, it works with a single frequency of 6.6 kHz.

There is a headphone jack, a sensitive coil (not protected from moisture), there is an automatic ground balance.

The device is very light and mobile, and the rod is of a sliding type with an adjustable length from 114 to 135 centimeters.

Comfortable armrest guarantees a perfect fit of the device in your hand.

The work is carried out at the expense of two 9-volt batteries, this is enough for 5-6 hours of continuous search. The depth of detection of small objects ranges from 15 to 30 centimeters, large objects differ at a depth of up to 90 centimeters.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 90 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.18 kg.

Minelab Go Find 66

Basic metal detector equipped with advanced features. Coil Fancy shape, its diameter is 25 centimeters, it is not afraid of moisture and does not need to install additional protection.

The device is quite sensitive, the detection depth reaches 80 centimeters, and it is able to catch large objects a dozen or two deeper..

Very compact, weighing one kilogram, fits perfectly in the hand, equipped with a comfortable armrest. There is an LED indication that notifies what metal the found item is made of (red - iron, green - jewelry or non-ferrous metal). For 3-4 hours of searching, you will need a set of four AA batteries.

Equipped with Bluetooth for communication with the owner's smartphone. There is special software, which, however, sometimes gives errors.

Main characteristics:

1. The detection method is VFLEX.
2. The maximum depth is 80 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 7.8.
4. Weight - 1.06 kg.

Bounty Hunter Fast Tracker

Lightweight, compact, reliable ground metal detector, which allows you to quickly learn the basics of searching for rarities in both wet and dry soil.

There is moisture protection for the coil, it works from two crowns. Sound tone, the signal is output to the speaker or through headphones, without volume control. Ground balancing is automatic only, manual settings cannot be adjusted.

The depth of detection of large objects reaches 70 centimeters, buttons and coins will be found at a depth of up to 40 centimeters.

There is discrimination, you can balance it yourself so that the device does not react to extraneous interference from unnecessary objects.

The weight of the device with all accessories is 1300 grams, for the convenience of carrying on the bar, an ergonomic armrest is installed, which relieves the load from the shoulder and back.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method -VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 70 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

TOP 4 best metal detectors with detection depth up to 1.5 meters

Minelab E-Trac (Pro package)

One of the best ground type metal detectors for professionals. There is a setting frequencies (about 28), sensitivity, ground mineralization and discrimination.

The coil has a diameter of 28 cm, moisture protection is installed, there is a small display on which information about the contents of the soil is displayed as a coordinate system.

Operates on 8 AA batteries.

The metal detector is very light, with a comfortable armrest and a well-assembled body made of durable plastic.

It is possible to connect the device to a computer to exchange settings and search data with colleagues.

Thanks to the wide settings and good balance, the detection depth of even small objects reaches up to 100 centimeters, so this device is rightfully considered the leader among ground metal detectors.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - FBS.
2. The maximum depth is 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 1.5, 100.
4. Weight - 2 kg.

XP Metal Detectors ORX

A French metal detector for professionals that meets all basic requirements search engine in 2024-2025.

Very light, weighing only 760 grams, with a telescopic rod made of molded plastic without any weights. It works with a large frequency range, so it is effective in finding both metal and precious items.

It is possible to use automatic programs set by the manufacturer or set your own, custom.

The device is very sensitive, does not react to extraneous noise from iron debris, and can be used in places of "littering".

The package includes wireless headphones, the device runs on its own battery. The coil is protected from water, which allows you to search in shallow water, immersing the metal detector 1 meter under water.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 1 meter.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is from 13 to 59.
4. Weight - 760 grams.

Minelab Vanquish 340

Nothing superfluous, only useful settings that will be clear to any beginner. Lightweight, molded plastic body.

The software is updated regularly. This is a ground type metal detector, however, the coil is protected from moisture and can be used on the coast (without immersion).

Powered by 4 AA batteries, rechargeable batteries can be used.

There are three automatic modes - coin, relic and all metals. The sound notification has four volume levels and three tone levels, there is a discrimination balancing that eliminates unnecessary interference.

The device is easy to fold for easy transportation, not afraid of salt water.

There is a built-in speaker, the package also includes wired headphones with a 3.5 mm jack. The control unit is waterproof, so you can use the device even in heavy, heavy rain.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 1 meter.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

Minelab Go-Find 44

Ground metal detector, which is suitable for both beginners and experienced specialists on light areas.

Sturdy molded plastic construction with low weight and comfortable armrest.

Runs on four AA batteries for up to 40 hours of use. The device is very durable, equipped with a small display, with which it is convenient to adjust the metal detector for yourself.

This device cannot be called sensitive, so the detection depth is only 80 centimeters.

By the way, there is also a Bluetooth module, which means that it is possible to connect to your own smartphone in order to access advanced functionality..

The device is able to filter noise from foreign objects, and its cost is ideal for a novice searcher.

Main characteristics:

1. The detection method is VFLEX.
2. The maximum depth is 80 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 7.8.
4. Weight - 1.06 kg.

TOP 4 best budget metal detectors

Bounty Hunter Discovery 2200

A device that is well suited to a novice searcher due to the simplicity of settings and use.

For comfortable use, the manufacturer has taken care of a small display and signal alerts at four tone levels. It has a monocoil with a diameter of 20 cm with a conical field.

The most effective depth of detecting objects (coins, buttons) is 15 cm, it is also able to distinguish such things up to 30 cm, and large objects weighing about 1000 grams will be detected at a depth of 60 cm.

The signal can be filtered without wasting time on any metal debris.

This feature will definitely come in handy in places where there are a lot of things and fragments in the ground.

You can adjust the sensitivity and adjust the device to the degree of soil mineralization.

The case is well assembled, weighs just over one kilogram and does not pull the arm or shoulder.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 60 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.7.
4. Weight - 1.13 kg.

Garrett ACE 200i

The ACE series produced by this brand of metal detectors has become a great option for learning to work with such devices.

Therefore, if you are new to the search, take a closer look at the 200i model, which has proven itself well among users. The device is unpretentious, does not need a protective cover for the coil, it is easy to set up and manage.

Such a metal detector can be presented even to a child.

Operates at low frequency and is very sensitive to copper, bronze, silver and other similar highly conductive metals.

There is a discrimination system that will allow you to conduct a directed search for coins, buttons and other similar items.

Very economical in terms of energy consumption, one set of AA batteries will last for almost four months of regular use.

This model is an example of a good balance between price and functionality.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 90.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.5.
4. Weight - 1.27.

Teknetics Eurotek

A well built and balanced entry level searcher that works from crown.

Here, a significant drawback of the device is immediately revealed - the charge will last no more than 8-10 hours of operation.

However, for its cost, the device has good sensitivity and is very easy to set up, while the detection depth of large objects is about 100 centimeters.

The device has only two main functions that can be configured: discrimination and sensitivity.

It performs equally well when working on dry and wet ground, is not afraid of sand, so it can also be used on the beach.Small fragments and objects are able to catch at a depth of up to 30 cm.

When discrimination is disabled, the metal detector can be used as a pinpointer (static). Keep in mind that the headphone jack is very non-standard and you will have to look for a suitable adapter.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 100 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 7.
4. Weight - 1 kg.

Garrett ACE 150

The youngest and budget model of the line, recommended by experts as teaching device with simple settings without unnecessary functions.

Designed for a wide range of tasks. The three-section plastic bar has an S-shape and is convenient for transportation and operation, equipped with a soft foam armrest.

This allows the user's elbow to stay in one place and take the pressure off the back, which can make itself felt after several hours of searching..

The device can be adjusted sensitivity and discrimination, there is automatic ground balancing, but manual is not available. The sound is output to the built-in speaker, but there is also a headphone output.

Responsible for autonomy is the power supply, designed for a set of four AA batteries.

The charge is enough for 40 hours. The coil has protection against moisture, so searches can be carried out not only in dry soil, but also in wet.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to 80 cm.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 6.5.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

TOP 4 best underwater metal detectors

Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus

Reliable, high-quality assembled metal detector with full protection against water, which is suitable for searching both in shallow water and in depth.

It has a huge number of settings, is very sensitive to various metals and produces powerful radiation, thanks to which the depth of detection of objects reaches three meters.

The discriminator has 99 steps (most of which are not useful), there is a setting for soil mineralization.

Small objects are caught in the region of 50 centimeters. The coil has a diameter of 11 centimeters.

It is convenient that the bar here is sliding and can be increased up to 132 cm.

The device is powered by its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for almost eight hours of operation (it will take half the time to charge). It is possible to buy an additional battery separately.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 12.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

Makro Kruzer

This device can be used to search for relics in the ground or under water.. Good radiation from the coil leads to a detection depth of up to one meter.

Light in weight (although heavier than conventional dirt ones), it is convenient for transportation and work, the package includes wireless headphones and a charger for a native battery that provides autonomy up to 19 hours.

There is a built-in speaker with three levels of alert tone. There is vibration.

You can adjust the sensitivity or use automatic modes, there is automatic and manual ground balancing.

This is a multifunctional metal detector that will help in the search for coins, buttons, pellets and other interesting antiques, as well as indicate precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to one meter.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 14.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

Deteknix Quest Quest PRO

A professional metal detector that is used to search for rarities in dry and wet ground, and can also be taken with them to dive to a depth of five meters.

All thanks to the high level of moisture protection of the coil and the entire body. The depth of detection of large objects reaches three meters. The device is famous for its performance and high sensitivity.

Autonomous operation is provided by its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for 30 hours of operation.

Therefore, the device is indispensable when traveling and hiking. Easy to disassemble, convenient to transport. It can connect to smartphones, has a Bluetooth module for information exchange and mapping.

It is very popular among professional searchers, it is used to detect precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 20.
4. Weight - 1.35 kg.

Garrett At Max

Universal metal detector for searching in the ground and diving under water to a depth of three meters.

It features a wide range of settings for filtering extraneous noise, ground balancing (automatically and manually), sensitivity.

The maximum detection depth of objects reaches three meters. Convenient telescopic rod and soft armrest provide comfortable work and convenient transportation.

Autonomy is provided by a power supply unit consisting of four AA batteries (rechargeable ones are also suitable).

The charge lasts for 20 hours, which is a good indicator. The package includes branded wireless headphones, without volume control, but with three levels of alert tone.

Well suited for searching for various small items made of non-ferrous or precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 3 meters.
3. The frequency of operation in kHz is 13.6.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

Object detection method

The most popular methods are described below.:

1. VLF (very low frequency) – operating frequency up to 20 kHz.The receiving and transmitting coils are placed in one block. Having received a signal, the device shows what kind of metal is detected or the object belongs to the garbage.
2. VFLEX - improved version of VLF, most commonly used by its creator, Minelab. Here, not an analog signal is processed, but a discrete one, which speeds up processing and makes it better, minimizing the number of errors.
3. PI - impulse induction. Only one coil is used as a receiver and transmitter, most often used in models for underwater search in salty waters.
4. FBS - Full Band Spectrum. Another product from Minelab. There are several frequency generators and they are used simultaneously, which allows you to get all the information about the found object.

Generator frequency

Indicates if other coils will fit this detector. If the operating frequency is one, then only one type of coil can be used.

Coil design

Two types of designs of this element are used.:

• mono - two circles of winding, one of which is placed in the second;
• DD - two windings that are placed next to each other.

Monocoils do a better job of dealing with extraneous interference from unwanted metals (discrimination). But if the search is carried out in the ground with a large amount of minerals, then you should choose a metal detector with a DD coil.

In addition, other parameters cannot be ignored.:

1. Number of manual settings. They help to adjust the operation of the device for a specific area and the task.
2. Key (number of levels). Indicates the proximity of the find.
3. Ability to map finds.
4. Connecting a metal detector to gadgets or a computer — to share data and save search results.
5. autonomy. Can rechargeable batteries be used? How much is enough charge?
6. Purpose. Do you need a device to search exclusively in the ground or are you planning to work in water?

These points also affect pricing, and if you manage to identify unnecessary features for your purposes, you will be able to buy a device with the perfect balance of price and performance.

Which firm to choose?

According to the ratings, the brands Garrett (USA) and Minelab (Austria) are especially popular..

Their main features from the main competitors are a variety of models for every taste and budget, a balance of price and functionality, and a long service life.

Most often, newcomers to the search business prefer these companies, and then come back for more powerful models.

What is the difference between a professional metal detector and an amateur one?

Amateur metal detectors differ from their "experienced" counterparts in a narrow set of settings and simple equipment. This is done so that a beginner in search business can catch the very principle of working with such a device without overpaying for functions that he will not use.

Amateur devices have a small frequency range, a low level of extraneous noise filtering, and they are not designed to work in extreme conditions..

For example, in heavy rain, at low or high air temperatures, at great depths in fresh and salt water. And amateur metal detectors are not designed to search for precious metals, but they distinguish antiques well.

Customer Reviews

Useful video

From the video you will get acquainted with the review of the best metal detectors: