January 2025
Metal Detectors: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of metal detectors rankings posted by key online experts, as of January 2025.
Summary
On 10 Jan 2025, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 70 metal detector endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
45 metal detectors were endorsed in total, only 15 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 10 Jan 2025, Nokta Makro Simplex 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 Vanquish 440)
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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 - January Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Metal Detector |
Task and Purpose
|
money.com
|
Bob Vila
|
ZD Net
|
BestReviews
|
The Strategist
|
Popular Mechanics
|
Your Best Digs
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
|
Tech Metals Research
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
+1 | 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.
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
1
|
4
|
|
2
|
-1 | $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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1
|
3
|
-
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-
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2
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $270 |
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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-
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-
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1
|
2
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-
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-
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4
|
-
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-
|
-
|
|
4
|
+4 | $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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-
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-
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4
|
-
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-
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2
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
-1 | $384 |
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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1
|
3
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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-
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-
|
-
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5
|
|
6
|
-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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-
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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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1
|
-
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-
|
|
7
|
-1 | $799 |
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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-
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-
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-
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3
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-
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4
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5
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-
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4
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-
|
|
8
|
-1 | $430 |
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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-
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-
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-
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-
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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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1
|
|
9
|
- | $57 |
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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-
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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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-
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3
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-
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-
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|
10
|
+1 | Check price |
National Geographic Jr
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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-
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1
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-
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4
|
-
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-
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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|
11
|
+1 | $2299 |
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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-
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4
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-
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-
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-
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6
|
-
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-
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5
|
-
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|
12
|
+1 | $1599 |
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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-
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5
|
-
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-
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-
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-
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7
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-
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9
|
-
|
|
13
|
-3 | $583 |
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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-
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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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-
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3
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-
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|
14
|
- | $228 |
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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-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
|
2
|
-
|
|
15
|
+1 | $128 |
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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-
|
8
|
-
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-
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-
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-
|
We ranked Nokta Makro Simplex #1 in January 2025 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
|
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
|
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
|
Controls not as basic as other entry-level detectors
|
Tech Metals Research
|
Digital display
Submersible
Wireless compatible
Iron volume
Notch
|
Not for diving
|
We ranked Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV #2 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV as #1.
ZD Net
Best metal detector overall
|
Very affordable
Different sound tones for different metals
Simplified interface
Detects objects up to 2 feet underground
|
Not ideal for meteorite hunting
No coil protector or headphones included
|
BestReviews
Simple Yet Solid
|
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.
|
Learning curve for younger users is steep but not impossible.
Practice with coins is encouraged. False alarms do occur.
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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 January 2025 ranking
Task and Purpose
money.com
Bob Vila
ZD Net
BestReviews
The Strategist
Popular Mechanics
Your Best Digs
Metal Detecting in the USA
Tech Metals Research
We ranked Garrett Ace 300 #3 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Garrett Ace 300 as #1.
Bob Vila
Best Overall
|
Adjustable length and lightweight design make it suitable for short and tall users as well as those with various degrees of physical strength
Multiple search modes are available to make it easier to detect certain items
Numeric Digital Target ID system allows users to identify a metal’s conductivity to further narrow down item identification
|
Display screen is on the small side, and some users may find it hard to view details
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Minelab Vanquish 440 #4 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Minelab Vanquish 440 as #1.
Bob Vila
Best Ease Of Use
|
Operation is turn on and go for convenience: frequency and ground balance adjust automatically
Multi-IQ technology employs multiple frequencies at once for a more efficient search
Large and easy-to-read screen with user-friendly tactile buttons
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Some reviewers found the wired headphones uncomfortable and a bit of a hassle to use
|
Popular Mechanics
Best Overall
|
Simple, yet full-featured
Multi-frequency support
Lightweight
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Not as water-resistant as more expensive models
|
We ranked Garrett Ace 400 #5 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Garrett Ace 400 as #1.
Task and Purpose
Best Overall
|
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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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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Tech Metals Research
Best for Beginners
|
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 #6 in January 2025 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 #7 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
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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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
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for relic hunting
|
All-terrain detector
Fully submersible up to 10ft (or 3 meters)
Multi-frequency
Wireless headphone capability
Switch between frequencies based on your needs
Weighs under 3lbs
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Included headphones aren’t waterproof
|
We ranked Garrett ACE Apex #8 in January 2025 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
|
Good depth penetration
Weatherproof
Large backlit display with six modes
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More expensive than entry-level models
|
Tech Metals Research
Best Overall
|
Price
Multi-frequency
6 frequencies
Audible target ID
Z-Lynk compatible
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Special searchcoil
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We ranked Bounty Hunter Gold Digger #9 in January 2025 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
|
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 National Geographic Jr #10 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked National Geographic Jr as #1.
money.com
Best Overall
|
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 #11 in January 2025 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
|
One of the more expensive detectors available
Not as easy to use as some models
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for high-end features
|
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 #12 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
money.com
Best for underwater detecting
|
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
|
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
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
our pick for saltwater beach hunting
|
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 Garrett AT Pro #13 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
money.com
Editor's Pick
|
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
|
Metal Detecting in the USA
our top pick overall
|
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 Fisher F22 #14 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Weatherproof
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Lightweight design makes this metal detector easy to carry around
Weatherproof and completely sealed to protect from rain and dirt
Numeric Target ID display and 4-tone audio ID system help with item identification
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Only coil is waterproof; the rest of the unit is not submersible
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Metal Detecting in the USA
runner-up for entry-level users
|
Weatherproof
Iron Audio
Fast Recovery (Processing) Speed
Digital Target ID
Lighter, easier to use
5 Year Warranty
|
No adjustable ground balance
|
We ranked Garrett Pro Pointer AT #15 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best metal detectors” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Underwater
|
Designed for underwater use; bright orange color keeps it visible and it’s submersible up to 20 feet
Very lightweight and easy to carry, even while underwater; weighs under 1 pound
A built-in LED light and a scraping edge help to reach the target item
|
A pinpointer; not ideal for searching large areas but useful for pinpointing a target or searching small spaces
|