May 2024
Metal Detectors: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of metal detectors rankings posted by key online experts, as of May 2024.
Summary
On 11 May 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 74 metal detector endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
46 metal detectors were endorsed in total, only 17 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 11 May 2024, Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed metal detector with 4 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 4 recommended it as the '#1 metal detector' this month.
Brand breakdown
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Minelab: 7 metal detectors
(#1 is Minelab Equinox 800)
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Nokta Makro: 6 metal detectors
(#1 is Nokta Makro Simplex)
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Garrett: 6 metal detectors
(#1 is Garrett Ace 300)
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Fisher: 5 metal detectors
(#1 is Fisher F22)
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Bounty Hunter: 4 metal detectors
(#1 is Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV)
Price breakdown
At a glance - May Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Metal Detector |
money.com
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Popular Mechanics
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Bob Vila
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ZD Net
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BestReviews
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The Strategist
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Task and Purpose
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Your Best Digs
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
|
Tech Metals Research
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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1
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- | $71 |
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is a reliable and versatile entry-level metal detector praised for its reliability, versatility, and ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and casual users.
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-
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4
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1
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3
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-
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-
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2
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-
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-
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2
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+5 | Check price |
Nokta Makro Simplex
The Nokta Makro Simplex metal detector is a highly regarded and versatile device with advanced features, target identification capabilities, and ease of use, making it suitable for both land and underwater treasure hunting.
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3
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-
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-
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-
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5
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-
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1
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4
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3
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-1 | $261 |
Garrett Ace 300
The Garrett Ace 300 metal detector is a versatile and reliable option for general-purpose metal detecting, with impressive target identification capabilities and customizable discrimination settings.
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4
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1
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2
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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4
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-1 | $373 |
Garrett Ace 400
The Garrett Ace 400 metal detector is highly praised for its features, performance, and ease of use, making it a versatile and reliable option for beginners and experienced users alike.
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3
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-
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-
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-
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-
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1
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-
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5
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5
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-1 | Check price |
Garrett Ace 250
The Garrett Ace 250 metal detector is highly praised for its features, target identification capabilities, and ease of use, making it a versatile and user-friendly option for coin hunting, relic detection, and general metal detecting purposes.
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1
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1
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-
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6
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-1 | $949 |
Minelab Equinox 800
The Minelab Equinox 800 is a highly versatile and feature-rich metal detector that offers wireless audio, accurate target identification, and a waterproof design, making it suitable for a wide range of detecting needs.
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5
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3
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4
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4
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-
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7
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+2 | $425 |
Garrett ACE Apex
The Garrett ACE Apex metal detector is a versatile and user-friendly device with features such as a waterproof search coil, wireless technology, pinpoint mode, adjustable frequency options, accurate target identification, and easy handling, making it suitable for various metal detecting applications.
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2
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1
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8
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- | $299 |
Minelab Vanquish 440
The Minelab Vanquish 440 is a versatile and user-friendly metal detector with a waterproof coil, multiple frequencies, pinpoint mode, and accurate target identification, making it suitable for various treasure hunting scenarios.
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1
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2
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9
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+1 | $70 |
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger
The Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector is a lightweight and efficient detector with a 7-inch coil, visual target system, and five notch discrimination settings, making it ideal for basic metal detection activities.
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1
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3
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10
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-4 | Check price |
Garrett AT Pro
The Garrett AT Pro metal detector is highly praised for its versatile features, reliable performance, and user-friendly design, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike in various hunting scenarios.
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2
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9
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3
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11
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New * | Check price |
National Geographic Jr Metal Detector
The National Geographic Jr Metal Detector is a compact and user-friendly metal detector designed specifically for children, featuring a waterproof design, audio feedback, and discrimination settings for effective treasure hunting.
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1
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4
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12
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-1 | $2418 |
Minelab CTX 3030
The Minelab CTX 3030 is a versatile and effective metal detector with customizable features, waterproof capability, and excellent target identification, making it suitable for experienced treasure hunters.
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4
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6
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5
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13
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-1 | $1699 |
Minelab Excalibur II
The Minelab Excalibur II is a highly praised metal detector with waterproof capabilities, advanced target identification, and customizable discrimination settings, making it ideal for underwater exploration and scuba diving.
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5
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7
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9
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14
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-1 | $216 |
Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 metal detector is a highly praised and user-friendly device with effective features, accurate target identification, and ease of use, making it suitable for various metal detecting needs.
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3
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2
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15
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+1 | $319 |
Fisher Gold Bug Pro
The Fisher Gold Bug Pro metal detector is a versatile and user-friendly tool that offers accurate target identification and discrimination settings, making it ideal for metal detecting enthusiasts of all experience levels.
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8
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6
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16
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-1 | $113 |
Garrett Pro Pointer AT
The Garrett Pro Pointer AT is a versatile and reliable metal detector with target identification capabilities, precision pinpointing, and a waterproof design, making it suitable for various detecting needs, including prospecting.
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6
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9
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17
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- | $904 |
Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II
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10
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8
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We ranked Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV #1 in May 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV as #1.
Bob Vila
Best for Depth
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Cheap metal detector compared to similar options on the market
Preset ground balance for user-friendliness; adjustable target sensitivity for finding different metal and object types
Comes with convenient, large carrying bag that makes transporting and storage easy
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No pinpoint function; may be hard to narrow down search area
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ZD Net
Best metal detector overall
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Very affordable
Different sound tones for different metals
Simplified interface
Detects objects up to 2 feet underground
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Not ideal for meteorite hunting
No coil protector or headphones included
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BestReviews
Simple Yet Solid
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Good discriminator
Lightweight yet durable build with different detection modes.
Decent price point, yet can handle searches in different types of ground.
It’s great for beginners, although kids may need some adult help.
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Learning curve for younger users is steep but not impossible.
Practice with coins is encouraged. False alarms do occur.
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We ranked Nokta Makro Simplex #2 in May 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Nokta Makro Simplex as #1.
Popular Mechanics
Best For Beginners
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Simple and straightforward controls
More waterproof than most
Good backlight
Lightweight
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Not suitable for saltwater beaches
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Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for entry-level users
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Mid-level detector performance for entry-level price
Powerful DD coil
Fully submersible to 10 ft
Built-in rechargeable battery
Wireless audio when used with compatible headphones
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Controls not as basic as other entry-level detectors
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Tech Metals Research
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Digital display
Submersible
Wireless compatible
Iron volume
Notch
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Not for diving
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Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend metal detectors.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of metal detectors, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for May 2024 ranking
money.com
Popular Mechanics
Bob Vila
ZD Net
BestReviews
The Strategist
Task and Purpose
Your Best Digs
Metal Detecting in the USA
Tech Metals Research
We ranked Garrett Ace 300 #3 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Garrett Ace 300 as #1.
Popular Mechanics
Simple and Portable
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Five search modes
Notch discrimination
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Less feature-rich than other models in price range
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Bob Vila
Best Overall
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Frequency adjustment dial
Adjustable discrimination sensitivity
Pinpointing mode and target depth indicator
Padded, ergonomic grip
Includes a set of headphones
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Some reports of manufacturing defects
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ZD Net
Best metal detector for beginners
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Simplified controls
Covers and headphones included
Waterproof detection coil
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On the expensive side
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We ranked Garrett Ace 400 #4 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Garrett Ace 400 as #1.
money.com
Best for Low Prices
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Digital target ID feature easily identifies materials
Ability to detect coins up to 10 inches deep
Headphones with volume control for convenience
Appropriate for beginners, intermediates and advanced users
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Control box lacks weatherproofing
No volume control on the beeper without headphones
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Task and Purpose
Best Overall
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A clear display indicates what type of metal is being detected
The waterproof coil allows you to search in shallow water
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This metal detector certainly isn’t overpriced, but the cost might deter some new enthusiasts on a tight budget
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Tech Metals Research
Best for Beginners
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5 search modes
Target ID
Digital display
Iron audio
Accessories included
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Preset ground balance
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We ranked Garrett Ace 250 #5 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Garrett Ace 250 as #1.
We ranked Minelab Equinox 800 #6 in May 2024 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Popular Mechanics
Best Expert Upgrade
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Lightweight
Supports all terrains and detecting types
Good backlight
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Fixed shaft length reduces portability
Not as good at gold prospecting as PI machines
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ZD Net
Best metal detector for relic hunting
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12-hour battery
Rechargeable
8 user profiles
Waterproof
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Very expensive
Sharp learning curve
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Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for relic hunting
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Fully submersible up to 10ft (or 3 meters)
Multi-frequency for better target ID
Wireless headphone capability
Switch between frequencies based on your needs
Weighs under 3lbs
Value for money
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Included headphones aren’t waterproof
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We ranked Garrett ACE Apex #7 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Garrett ACE Apex as #1.
Popular Mechanics
Best Value
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Good depth penetration
Weatherproof
Large backlit display with six modes
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More expensive than entry-level models
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Tech Metals Research
Best Overall
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Price
Multi-frequency
6 frequencies
Audible target ID
Z-Lynk compatible
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Special searchcoil
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We ranked Minelab Vanquish 440 #8 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Minelab Vanquish 440 as #1.
Popular Mechanics
Best Overall
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Simple, yet full-featured
Multi-frequency support
Lightweight
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Not as water-resistant as more expensive models
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We ranked Bounty Hunter Gold Digger #9 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bounty Hunter Gold Digger as #1.
BestReviews
Best of the Best
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Easy to assemble
easy to use.
This model is suitable for beaches, fields, and parks. "Trash Eliminator" settings ignores most unwanted items while the "Power Level" sets the depth of your search.
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For smaller objects, such as coins, this unit can only go about 6 inches deep under optimum conditions.
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We ranked Garrett AT Pro #10 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
money.com
Editor's Pick
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Works well in all terrains
Offers superior depth and accuracy
Has a long-lasting battery life
Includes feature-packed customization options
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No backlit display makes night usage difficult
Depth indicator may not always be accurate
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Bob Vila
Best for Freshwater
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Waterproof down to 10 feet
Adjustable handle
Discrimination mode
Automatic and manual ground-balance settings
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Limited maximum search depth
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Metal Detecting in the USA
our top pick overall
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Fully waterproof and submersible to 10 ft
Manual and auto ground balance
Proportional audio
Iron audio
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Underwater headphones sold separately
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We ranked National Geographic Jr Metal Detector #11 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked National Geographic Jr Metal Detector as #1.
money.com
Best Overall
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Telescoping arm, padded strap, and comfortable grip make it kid-friendly
Lightweight and portable design for on-the-go adventures
Comprehensive full-color learning guide
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Can break if used incorrectly
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ZD Net
Best metal detector for kids
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Great for small children
Waterproof coil
Starter kit includes replica coins
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Doesn't fold for travel
Can't differentiate between ferrous and non-ferrous material
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We ranked Minelab CTX 3030 #12 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
money.com
Best All-Terrain Detector
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Technology to precisely detect multiple materials simultaneously
High learning curve but very accurate readings
Excellent depth and sensitivity
Easy preset modes to get started
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One of the more expensive detectors available
Not as easy to use as some models
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Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for high-end features
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Superior discrimination and target ID
Don’t need to buy separate land machine
Lots of coils available
LCD display
Digital Target ID
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Price
Can’t be used for diving
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We ranked Minelab Excalibur II #13 in May 2024 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
money.com
Best for underwater detecting
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Fully submersible up to 200 feet
Great value for money
Easy to set up and use
Highly durable construction
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Not suitable for gold detecting
Instructions may be complicated
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Popular Mechanics
Best for Underwater
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Suitable for diving
Can be used on all terrain, including wet beaches
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Heavy
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Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for saltwater beach hunting
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Excellent iron discrimination
Multiple frequency machine that can also be used for diving
Very accurate tone ID
Submersible to 200 ft
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Iron signals null delay can make you miss good targets
Hardwired headphones
Requires additional kit to hip mount
No tone on deep, faint signals. Just threshold change.
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We ranked Fisher F22 #14 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best for Beginners
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All-purpose detection; capable of detecting multiple object and metal types
Sturdy, weatherproof construction; this metal detector can withstand heavy-duty use
Hand grip and arm cup makes holding the detector easier;
Easy-to-read screen and push-button controls
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Not meant for deep-water submersion or overly wet conditions
Pricey compared to similar metal detectors available on the market
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Metal Detecting in the USA
runner-up for entry-level users
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Weatherproof
Iron Audio
Fast Recovery (Processing) Speed
Digital Target ID
Lighter, easier to use
5 Year Warranty
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No adjustable ground balance
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We ranked Fisher Gold Bug Pro #15 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best for Gold
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Continuous ground-condition sensor system
Detects gold and small materials
Discrimination, all-metal, and pinpoint modes
Depth indicator
Visual and audio alerts
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Limited search depth
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Tech Metals Research
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High frequency
Ground Grab
Target ID
Motion all-metal
VCO audio
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No volume control
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We ranked Garrett Pro Pointer AT #16 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Waterproof
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Waterproof down to 10 feet
Locator alarm
3 sensitivity settings
LED light for locating objects
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Limited search depth
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We ranked Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II #17 in May 2024 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best for Salt Water
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Submersible down to 200 feet
All-metal and discrimination modes
Adjustable elimination threshold
Comes with fully submersible headphones
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May be challenging for beginners to use
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Metal Detecting in the USA
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Interchangeable coils and headphones
Has large 10×14 accessory coil
Independently sealed battery compartment
Pulse Delay for heavy iron beaches
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No volume control
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