15 best metal detectors
Metal detectors help find and retrieve valuable items from the ground or from the bottom of water bodies. But low-quality, reacting even to rusty nails, only complicate the search. The rating of the best metal detectors will help you not to miscalculate with the choice of model.
In order not to be disappointed in the chosen model, it is necessary to study the basic technical characteristics of metal detectors. They allow you to quickly find metal objects in water or under layers of soil. You can simply study the production standards, but it is easier to analyze a ready-made list of basic requirements for a modern device:
- Usually maximum detection depth - from 0.1 to 5 meters, but there are also more powerful models;
- Detection frequency fluctuates between 2.5 kHz and 20 kHz for high-end models;
- Search coils by type can be divided into concentric and mono, Imaging coil and DD type;
- Number of built-in programs determines which metals the device detects;
- The more device operating time, the easier it is to get out with him on a long-term search;
- Dimensions and weight the ideal metal detector should be such that it can be easily carried by hand.
A number of companies are engaged in the production of metal detectors. But you can only trust that they assemble at licensed factories and provide a warranty period for their products. So you can not only buy a useful device, but also ensure yourself its long-term use. The top 3 best-known recommended brands include:
- Garrett Is an American brand that is engaged in the creation of numerous metal products;
- Minelab - a company registered in Australia in 1986, now supplying its products all over the world;
- Fisher Is a manufacturer of metal detectors and sports equipment, founded in 1924 in Austria.
If the search for metal objects is just a hobby or entertainment, you should not spend money on professional equipment. Even firms with an ideal reputation produce models belonging to the low-cost segment. They have enough features to become a reliable first metal detector.
Minelab Go-Find 44 Ground
The Minelab Go-Find 44 ground metal detector has an indication system that helps to identify an object found underground. The 254mm coil helps you quickly survey large areas. And she also has a special waterproof coating that prevents accidental breakdowns. Even with the help of the settings, you can adjust the sensitivity of the metal detector, the volume of the notification about the detection of the desired object. The design of the device is such that you can replace the built-in speaker with headphones. This will minimize the noise from search operations and make them even more comfortable.
PROS:
- Rod length from 555 to 1305 millimeters;
- There is a comfortable armrest;
- Weight not exceeding 1 kilogram;
- Sensitivity setting;
- Low battery indication;
- Four batteries included.
MINUSES:
- High price;
- Small detection depth;
- The device not only detects metal items, but also foil, corks and other debris.
Teknetics Eurotek primer
The Teknetics Eurotek metal detector is powered by one battery, so it will take very little money to maintain it. Despite this, the metal detector works for a long time and is of sufficient quality. In the hand, this technique is almost not felt. It is lightweight, comfortable and has a comfortable armrest. Over time, the handle that you need to hold onto is erased, but this does not prevent the device from productively searching for metal objects at a shallow depth. True, the reviews note that the eight-inch coil of the device is quite thin. This leads to the fact that the metal detector often needs additional maintenance.
PROS:
- Simple instruction in Russian;
- High response speed;
- The power supply is enough for a day of work;
- Four conveniently located control buttons;
- Three different sounds for discriminating metals;
- Suitable for children.
MINUSES:
- It is impossible to pinpoint the location of the item;
- Shallow search depth on the ground;
- No volume control.
Garrett ACE 150 soil
The Garrett ACE 150 Ground Metal Detector has enough features to meet all the needs of the novice finder. It can search in sand, shallow water and mineralized soils. The settings of the device are quite simple, so that even a child can figure out the algorithms for the operation of the metal detector. The detailed instructions for use, which the manufacturer attaches to each of his devices, will also help in this. The detector has three search modes: for jewelry, for coins and for all metals. These functions are sufficient to search for items on an amateur level and with moderate regularity.
PROS:
- Small weight of the device;
- Simple process of use;
- Adequate cost in both real and online stores;
- Battery life up to 36 hours;
- Three work programs;
- Reliable monochrome LCD display.
MINUSES:
- There is no frequency shift;
- It is necessary to protect the control unit from precipitation;
- Small search depth.
Only a small number of metal detectors have the correct price / quality ratio. Some companies sell devices with a small feature list for quite a lot of money. And others, for some reason, on the contrary, distribute their products cheaply. The following three metal detectors have an optimal price-performance ratio.
Garrett ACE 250 RUS soil
The Garrett ACE 250 RUS ground metal detector requires careful maintenance: its plastic case can be damaged due to contact with water or due to mechanical shock. But it is quite cheap and quickly responds to the target, which makes it convenient for both professional treasure hunters and amateurs who want to have fun while going to the country. This metal detector is one of the best-selling in the world: for almost 40 years, manufacturers have been experimenting and constantly improving the design of the metal detector. The advantage of the model is also called the extended configuration: it includes a special storage case, instructions, headphones and a carrying bag.
PROS:
- Quick response to a detected target;
- Adequate price;
- Lightweight, making it easy to carry the detector;
- Good metal scale;
- Normal detection depth for metal objects;
- Widespread both in chain stores and in small retail outlets.
MINUSES:
- No scoreboard protection;
- Makes loud and unpleasant sounds;
- The detector does not work well on high voltage lines.
Fisher F22 ground
The Fisher F22 metal detector has many useful options, from a customizable object scale to an item identification scale. Almost all other parameters can be adjusted according to their own requests, which gives the user a sense of comfort, a guarantee that no metal values will be missed. The metal detector is powered by two batteries, which is enough for an amateur search. It also weighs little, so the device is bought for use by children or those who perceive treasure hunting as a simple summer cottage entertainment. The coil that meets all modern requirements was developed by the manufacturer specifically for this device.
PROS:
- Convenient volume control;
- Correction of audio signals for different segments;
- Good ergonomics and nice design;
- The metal detector is not afraid of rain;
- Compactness when disassembling;
- Good discrimination.
MINUSES:
- Small search depth;
- Lack of ground balancing of the metal detector;
- Fine thread at the junction of the cable and the unit itself.
Minelab X-Terra 305 ground
The Minelab X-Terra 305 metal detector appeared back in 2009. But, nevertheless, the model has not become obsolete.This is due to its excellent balancing, rather long life and a comfortable handle. It is the ergonomics of the device that allows you to carry it with you for long hours. The search program settings are adjusted with the buttons. And you can monitor the state of the metal detector using a black and white screen. It has increased strength and moisture resistance, so the device will not suffer even from shock or contact with water. True, for everything to work correctly, you will have to mess around with the assembly for a long time. But the instructions in which it is described in detail will make the task easier.
PROS:
- Control unit cover included;
- Detuning from the ground and from electrical noise;
- Volume control;
- Tonal background;
- The ability to change the frequency to a higher one;
- Simple process of use.
MINUSES:
- Flimsy mounts;
- Small detection depth;
- Bad twist locks.
Especially powerful metal detectors in this section have many additional functions. They can also be configured to identify specific metals, track with their help the slightest changes in the soil and search settings. This makes it easier for those who are looking for metal values at a professional level.
Minelab Equinox 600 ground
The Minelab Equinox 600 is often bought by professional finders: the device has enough power to detect metal objects even at depth. And it also has a fairly durable case, which is protected by a waterproof coating. Therefore, even in the rain, you can continue to work without fear for the fate of technology. The metal detector has a high sensitivity, while it does not give false signals - all due to its multi-frequency - and does not react to metal debris. This saves a lot of time and effort for the user. The reviewers also mention the low price, which makes the ground metal detector one of the cheapest professional models.
PROS:
- Sleek design and ergonomics;
- Lightweight to reduce stress on hands;
- Simplicity of settings;
- Ability to work in multitasking mode;
- You can charge the device using USB;
- Screen backlight.
MINUSES:
- The electronic unit cannot be disconnected;
- A frail armrest prone to breakage;
- Regular loss of target while searching.
Fisher F75 ground
The Fisher F75 ground metal detector is a professional device with a distinctive golden shaft and miniature size. It is completely assembled in the USA and is considered one of the most reliable proposals in terms of quality for true fans of searching for metal objects underground or at shallow depths. If you believe the description from the manufacturer, the power of the device is about 20% higher than that of representatives of past generations. And it also has a high class of moisture protection, which guarantees long-term and productive use. Improved balance and long battery life help the detector to meet all customer needs.
PROS:
- Convenient display with all the necessary information;
- Good discrimination;
- Large search depth;
- Two protective covers included;
- Seven work programs;
- Detailed instructions explaining all the nuances of use.
MINUSES:
- Makes a lot of unnecessary sounds;
- Hard to find in the domestic market;
- Quite a high price.
Garrett AT Gold ground
The Garrett AT Gold Ground Metal Detector is manufactured in certified factories in the USA. It is the delivery from overseas that determines the rather high price of the device. But it is definitely worth paying for it: it does an excellent job of finding even small metal objects. At the same time, an intelligent metal detection system protects against the simple time-consuming excavation of nails, bottle caps and other debris. The device is especially good at detecting chains and other small jewelry. The good news is that the metal detector can work on different types of soil and even in shallow water.
PROS:
- Scuba diving up to three meters;
- Instant response;
- Stable performance even after several years of use;
- Comfortable armrest, which reduces stress on the arms and back;
- Reliable fixation of the bar;
- Powerful headphones included.
MINUSES:
- There is no possibility to adjust some sounds;
- High price;
- Hard to find outside of online stores.
Underwater metal detectors have completely different technical characteristics and unique properties. The fact is that the signals that the device sends do not travel through the water as they do through the ground. At the same time, they do not face serious obstacles like unpaved ones. The following three models are considered to be of particular quality.
Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT underwater
The Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT underwater metal detector works by interrupting vortex flows with a conductor. This allows the underwater model to pick up signals from even small metal objects of value to collectors, such as coins, jewelry. The metal detector has a high search accuracy that justifies an impressive price. It also does not allow water to pass through at all, which protects the complex internal structure of the model from damage during operation. Reviews also praise the rich orange color of the case. It is he, as well as the bright light of the built-in flashlight, that helps to notice the Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT at great depths, in dark water.
PROS:
- Reliability and warranty from the manufacturer;
- IP68 standard, that is, the maximum level of protection for civilian products;
- Can be immersed to a depth of three meters;
- Well suited for headphone use;
- Significantly reduces the search time for metal objects;
- Automatic tuning function.
MINUSES:
- Holds poorly in a regular holster;
- Quite a high price;
- Too light weight, which creates problems when working with the current.
Makro Multi Kruzer underwater
The modern Makro Multi Kruzer metal detector is designed to work underwater. It has excellent cross-country ability, and its technical characteristics allow it to descend to a depth of five meters. The manufacturer, along with the instructions and directly all parts of the device, supplies branded headphones that are connected via Bluetooth. One charge is enough for them for 10-14 hours. This ensures maximum comfort during prospecting. True, in no case should they be allowed to come into contact with water. Unlike the body of the model itself, they are made of non-waterproof plastic.
PROS:
- Smart display;
- Robust barbell weighing up to 1.3 kilograms;
- Li-Pol 3700 mAh battery;
- Double D coil 11x7 inches;
- Sound range 150 to 700 kHz and vibration response;
- Six search modes.
MINUSES:
- Hard to find in real stores;
- The black body is difficult to see in the water;
- The device will instantly break if you do not use special plugs for the plugs.
Nokta & Makro Simplex Plus underwater
The Turkish metal detector Nokta & Makro Simplex Plus is optimal for work under water. It can work uninterruptedly at depths of up to three meters. That being said, it has a reliable 11 '' DD base coil. And the buyer himself can choose: whether to take wireless headphones with a Bluetooth connection with the device or not. This, of course, affects the actual cost of the model. The device weighs about 1.2 kilograms. This is the optimum weight for long-term use. A convenient fixed armrest only adds additional comfort. The only structural drawback is the scratch-resistant coating. So you can't do without a cover.
PROS:
- Six simple buttons to control settings;
- Charging with USB cable included;
- The assembly is done in just a minute;
- Precise target designation mode;
- Four search programs with unique settings;
- Great for beginners.
MINUSES:
- Kruzer and Anfibio reels are not replaceable;
- Works on only one frequency;
- It is difficult to find in offline stores even in large cities of Russia.
Best pinpointers
Pinpointers are called compact metal detectors that are free from metal discrimination. They are suitable for those who search at shallow depths and can immediately retrieve a find from the ground or from the water column. Based on the reviews, the following three pitpointers are trustworthy.
Garrett Pro Pointer AT underwater
The modern underwater pinpointer Garrett Pro Pointer AT has a fully waterproof case. This protects the device from accidental damage during use and getting wet. It has the usual orange case, which was also on the previous generation models. This is good, because this color allows you to see the device even in cloudy water. And it also protects against accidental loss of the device by a sound signal that sounds every five minutes if it is turned on. The working area of the device is equipped with a scraper. It facilitates the search for underwater treasures without harming the pinpointer itself.
PROS:
- Three-level sensitivity adjustment;
- Absolute waterproofness;
- Simple algorithm of use;
- Can search at depths of up to three meters;
- High search accuracy;
- Sound and vibration modes of operation.
MINUSES:
- It is quite expensive for pinpointers;
- The flashlight cannot be turned off;
- There is no warning to replace the battery.
Fisher F-Pulse Ground
The Fisher F-Pulse metal detector belongs to the ground type, but its power is enough even to search for treasures in shallow water bodies. The weight of the device does not exceed 290 grams, so even a beginner seeker can handle it. According to the instructions, the optimal search depth is two meters. It has an ergonomic shape that makes it much easier to find metal valuables underground. Due to the special coating, the device does not slip. The ruler, which is equipped with the body of the device, helps to carry out changes without additional tools. It runs on two batteries, which is enough for long-term searches.
PROS:
- Customizable LED flashlight for lighting in the dark;
- Narrowed search location;
- Storage case included;
- Sound indication of the charge level;
- Depth sensitivity adjustment;
- Automatic shutdown.
MINUSES:
- Quite high price of a metal detector;
- Almost not found outside of specialty stores;
- Only one detection rate.
Garrett Pro-Pointer II soil
The Garrett Pro-Pointer II ground pinpointer has a two-year manufacturer's warranty. The coil only comes with a one-year warranty. It is designed to search for metal objects in small locations. The shape of the handle is ideal for wearing the pinpointer for a long time, and besides, the coating is non-slip. The pinpointer can be used even with gloves: the control buttons have a fairly high sensitivity, so there are no problems with settings. You can learn how to set up the device using the detailed instructions from the manufacturer, which also describes all the rules for replacing the battery and storing the turned off metal detector.
PROS:
- Powered by one Krona battery;
- Weight not exceeding 200 grams;
- Sound control of the charge level;
- Automatic ground balance adjustment;
- Built-in LED flashlight;
- Moisture protection class IP 66.
MINUSES:
- No display backlight;
- Cannot connect via Bluetooth;
- Quite a high price.
If you are looking for metal objects for fun, pay attention to the maximum detection depth and how many types of metal the device recognizes. The larger both the one and the other parameter, the better. Or consider buying a pinpointer: its maintenance is easier, and prices are usually lower than for classic metal detectors. In this case, the cost of the device should be a decisive factor in the choice, otherwise there will simply be no point in buying.
On the other hand, you shouldn't save on devices purchased for professional search. Otherwise, the "catch" will be much poorer than it could be.Ensure that the device is covered by a long-term warranty. This will serve as proof that the manufacturer is confident in the quality of his products.
