The Most Popular Metal Detectors In 2024: Best Picks & Guidance

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Most Popular Metal Detectors
Most Popular Metal Detectors

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

You can use the motion All-Metal mode or Discrimination mode to tell you which metals are in the ground and which are not. The preset ground balance neutralizes the unwanted response to mineral content in the ground and lets you easily find your treasure. This metal detector is ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions. Read Review

2. Runner Up: PANCKY Metal Detectors for Adults Waterproof

PANCKY metal detector is the coolest and most durable metal detector on the market. It's IP68 waterproof, so you can work in shallow water or even a pool. It has a built-in DSP chip that improves detection range. With a powerful search depth of 10 inches, it's perfect for detecting small treasures like a quarter underground. This device is easy to use and can be easily cleaned with cold water. Read Review

3. Best Capacity: Nokta Makro Simplex Waterproof Detector with 11" Coil

With features like an under the water LED flashlight and a notch discrimination, the Nokta Makro Simpex is an all-in-one detector for all your treasure hunting needs. This waterproof detector has a fully submersible IP68 rating up to 3 meters (10 ft) deep. Read Review

4. Best Adjustable: OMMO Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Waterproof Metal Detectors

OMMO Metal Detector is a new model of metal detector, which has a pointer screen to display and more convenient. You can easily see the detection mode, sensitivity level and battery condition. The meter pointer swings to the right when the target is found. When you rotate the switch counterclockwise from OFF to ON, the unit will turn off automatically. Read Review

Finding metal objects, or targets, in the great outdoors can be challenging. To make it easier and more rewarding, invest in a metal detector. No matter what your skill level is—whether you’re a novice or an experienced hobbyist—there are different metal detectors for you to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a detector for occasional use at parks and playgrounds, or for a more dedicated and functional machine designed to be used on a daily basis, read on to learn about the most popular options available.

We think Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting PANCKY Metal Detectors for Adults Waterproof as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
Our Score:
9.8
Bounty Hunter
  • Preset ground balance neutralizes response to mineral content in the ground
  • Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
  • Preset ground balance neutralizes response to mineral content in the ground
  • Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging
  • Disc/notch control distinguishes between targets and unwanted metals
  • Disc/notch control distinguishes between targets and unwanted metals
  • Motion All-Metal mode, Discrimination mode, and 2-Tone audio mode
  • Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
  • Rugged metal detector ideal for detecting treasure in extreme ground conditions
TOP Choice #2 PANCKY Metal Detectors for Adults Waterproof
Our Score:
9.7
PANCKY
  • 【10inch Waterproof Search Coil】PANCKY IP68 waterproof metal detector enables you works well in shallow water. Perfect for beach, stream, and rainy day. which means that you can freely dive with it and find treasures hidden from the eyes of the majority. Metal detectors can be easily cleaned and save. (Note: the control box is not waterproof).
  • 【Intuitive LCD Display 】Large color LCD display allows you to get the detection dynamics at any time. It’s convenient for you to get the type of metal target, depth, recognition, sensitivity level, operating mode. which let you detecting more efficient and time-saving.
  • 【Ergonomics Design】 Equipped with 39.37" to 47.24" adjustable stem applicable to different height gold detector enthusiasts. It has got an ergonomic design that involves adjustable armrest and an anti-slip handle that equips your hunting experience with comfort. Besides, we also provide one Backpack, convenient to carry and store the metal detector.
  • 【Great Newbie Gift】 Metal detector set with detection bag, shovel, earphones, perfect for birthdays, holidays, Father's Day, Mother's Day, Christmas and other major holiday gifts. Let the novice start a treasure hunt quickly after receiving the gift.
  • 【Upgraded DSP Chip】Upgraded DSP chip metal detector which improves search range and sensitivity, greatly conducive to detecting efficiency. It’s so powerful it can locate a quarter coin up to 10" underground. It can find larger objects at even greater depths.
  • 【5 Modes of Operation】PANCKY adults metal detectors has 5 distinct modes allow you to effectively search for the desired metals. 🚩All METAL MODE , 🚩DISC MODE , 🚩MEMORY MODE , 🚩JEWELRY MODE, 🚩PINPOINTER We are equipped with a full range of accessories and you can start your treasure hunt as soon as you open the package.
TOP Choice #3 Nokta Makro Simplex Waterproof Detector with 11" Coil
Our Score:
9.5
Nokta Makro
  • Search Modes - All Metal / Field / Park / Beach
  • Iron Volume - Turns off or adjusts the volume of the low iron tone.
  • Fabulous Lighting for Night & Underwater Use - SIMPLEX+ has it all - LCD Backlight, Keypad Backlight and LED Flashlight.
  • Notch Discrimination - Discriminates Target IDs of unwanted metals.
  • IP68 - Fully submersible up to 3 meters (10 ft) and protected from total dust ingress.
  • 🌺🌺HUMANITY DESIGN & ADJUSTABLE: Don't worry about the length of the stem, the gold and silver metal detectors from 30 inches to 43-inch adjustable stem, suitable for different height people. With the simple pointer display design, this is an amazing metal detector for adults and kids. The armrest design helps you to save more effort, more comfortable and less stressful. Let's start your treasure hunt with the lovely OMMO metal detector
  • 🌺🌺WATERPROOF & ACCURACY: The diameter of OMMO gold metal detector search coil is 10 inches, the bigger the search coil is, the higher the sensitivity, the metal detector kit detects coin-size targets up to 8 inches deep, and larger target up to 4 feet. Let you detecting more efficient and time-saving. Waterproof search coil enables you to use detecting to underwater, Perfect for outdoor, like beach, stream, yard. (Note: the control box is not waterproof)
  • 🌺🌺POINTER SCREEN DISPLAY & SIMPLE TO USE: New OMMO metal detector with a pointer screen to display, it is more convenient that you can see the detection mode, sensitivity level, and battery condition. When the metal target is found, the meter pointer swings to the right. Rotate the switch counterclockwise to OFF to turn off the unit. Rotate it clockwise away from OFF to turn on the unit. When you rotate the SENS from 0 to 10, the sensitivity is gradually increased
  • 🌺🌺FULL ACCESSORIES, MEET YOUR NEEDS: You can not only get 1×Metal Detector but also have 1×Carrying Bag, 2×9V Battery, 1× Shovel, 1×Headphone, it has a headset jack that can be used with conventional headsets. if you're a beginner, OMMO Metal Detector is always suitable for you. If you have any problems, please feel free to contact us
  • 🌺🌺4 MODES OF OPERATIONS: OM-C011 metal detector has four distinct modes that make you can optimize from in detecting metals.①DISCRIMINATION-- Deselect the metal you don't want, In this mode, the unit comes with auto ground balance. ②TONE--- Upgraded OM-C011 can discriminate the metal type by emitting a high or low tone. ③PINPOINT---To pinpoint the target accurately by lowering the sensitivity. ④ALL METAL---To search for all kinds of metal objects
  • Safe & Lovely Children Design: Palli Partners always put safety as a priority. Our Kids Metal Detector is made by harmless ABS material, totally no risk to your kids, parents ompletely at ease. Moreover, the lovely profile is designed both by professional industrial designer and kids visual designer. It perfectly fits children's aesthetic. Trust me, the metal detector for kids will get along well with your kids.
  • Waterproof Search Coil:Audio alert and LCD display indicate the detection of metal. Waterproof Search Coil - You can use the metal detector in the shallow water with waterproof search coil.The product only needs to use one 9V battery to work. When it stops working for a long time, please remove the battery.
  • Design Features: Light weight,easy operation,comfortable handling ,ergonomic design,high sensitivity,comes with adjustable lightweight bracket.This metal detector is suitable for Adults/Kids.
  • Widely Use :Perfect for finding metal objects and anywhere that hidden metal.(Iron nail, iron covering, aluminum ring, small aluminum product, coins, gold, bronze, silver)etc.can be used in science education
  • DETECTION INDICATION:audio alert and lcd display indicate the detection of metal(6.10inch detector diameter,10-100cm detection depth),once metal is detected there's beep sound and lcd screen light to remind you.
6 PalliPartners Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Our Score:
9.1
PalliPartners
  • FULL ACCESSORIES & YOU WORTH TO OWN IT: not only you can get 1×Metal Detector but also have 1×Carrying Bag, 1× Shovel(more durable & strong than other shovels), it has a headset jack that can be used with conventional headsets, two batteries are included. Whatever you're a beginner or advanced metal detectorist, PalliPartners metal detector is always suitable for you. If you have any questions about metal detector or metal detecting technicality, please feel free to contact us.
  • THREE STRONG MODES & TRUE DISCRIMINATION MODE - metal detector has three operation models: ① All Metal Mode - the metal detector notifies you whenever it sees any metal. ② Disc Mode - you can utilize this metal detector to discriminate against other types of metal for a specific one. ③ Notch mode –press “NOTCH”, then press “+”or ”-” button to select the target to be notched(eliminated). And you can simply eliminate the metal you don’t want through Discrimination Mode & Notch mode.
  • ADJUSTABLE & HUMANITY DESIGN – metal detector from 41.3 inch to 47.6 inch adjustable stem, suitable for both adults and kids. Save more effort with arm rest design, makes you more comfortable and less stressful. Let's start your treasure hunting with this lovely PalliPartners metal detector.
  • HIGH ACCURACY & WATERPROOF SEARCH COIL: The diameter of this metal detector’s search coil is 10 inches. As you know, the bigger the search coil is, the higher the sensitivity, let you detecting more efficient and time-saving. Waterproof search coil enables you to use detecting to underwater, perfect for outdoor, like beach, stream, backyard. (Note: the control box is not waterproof)
  • INTUITIVE LCD DISPLAY & DEEPER DETECTION - it is obviously more accurate and convenient that you can see the detection mode, sensitivity level, battery condition, and volume level. Even in the night time or dark light area. You can get information intuitively from the LCD screen and it can detect metals up to 8.7 inch depth.
  • 【What You Would Get】 - 1 * Avid Power Metal Detector, 1 * 9V Battery, 1 * Plastic Shovel, 1 * Carrying Bag, 1 * User Manual and Friendly Customer Service.
  • 【Free of Assemble and Easy to Operate】 - The telescoping design means you don’t need to assemble any complicated parts. Just unfold the detector and fold it back up again when you’re done, making it especially good for children and beginners. One press simply operation will let kids easily start metal finding. Lightweight and foldable search coil are exclusively designed for traveling or outdoor activities.
  • 【LCD Clear Detection and Buzzer】 - Push the POWER switch to turn on the metal detector, keep the search coil parallel from the ground and sweep it in a side-to-side motion. When close to the metal objects, the green light will turn red, meanwhile it will beeping loudly and the LCD displays a dart. The closer they are, the louder it sounds and the signal will be stronger.
  • 【 Perfect Gift for Kids 6-12 years old】- This kids metal detector has adjustable stem from 28" to 35", suitable for kids and teens of different heights. Enjoy the time to be with your child, let them go treasure hunt and help them to exercise their exploratory skills and curiosity. Avid Power Kids Metal Detector is a wonderful gift toy for birthday, Christmas, Halloween, New Years, boys and girls summer camp events.
  • 【Waterproof and Kid-Friendly Design】-The search coil is designed to be 7.4 inches, which makes metal detecting more sensitive, and the metal detector can detect coin-sized targets up to 4 inches deep. We also offer backpacks, which are easy to carry when outdoors. Both the adjustable stem and coil (not include screen) are waterproof, which means that the kids metal detectors are perfect for indoors, outdoors, beaches, parks, gardens, streams, soils, etc.
8 SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults
Our Score:
8.8
SUNPOW
  • 【10" Deeper Detection Depth】Our professional metal detector kit is upgraded with DSP chip, which has higher sensitivity. In all metal mode, it can detect a depth of 10 inches, which is 2 inches deeper than other metal detectors.
  • 【4 Modes of Operation】The metal detector has 4 different metal detection modes. It will be a good helper for you to find coins and treasures. ①All metal mode: 7 kinds of targets can be detected. ②DISC mode: 5 targets can be eliminated in sequence: bottle cap, foil, 5¢, pull tab, 1¢. ③Notch mode: freely discriminate against the 4 categories of foil, 5¢, pull tab, and 1¢, ignoring garbage and unwanted objects. ④Pinpoint mode: It can locate the target more accurately.
  • 【Higher Accuracy】This metal detector uses the latest integrated circuits to improve the efficiency of the chip algorithm, and will not cause the target to be lost because of your detection rate is too fast. It has a very strong anti-interference, so that it can be more precise and more efficient in the detection process.
  • 【IP68 Waterproof Search Coil】The 10-inch large search coil guarantees your detection efficiency. IP68 waterproof technology enables you to perform shallow water detection. (Note: The control box is not waterproof ) This SUNPOW saltwater metal detector is very suitable for outdoor activities, such as seaside, beach, stream, etc.
  • 【Adjustable Metal Detector】36.2" to 47.2" height adjustable valve stem is suitable for children and adults. You can enjoy detecting joy with your child at home, or pack it up for easy travel to any of your favorite treasure hunting spots.
  • Professional Metal Detector - 5 detection modes and 9 metal classifications: 9 classification levels to identify metal materials, allowing you to achieve multiple metal detections, helping you find exactly what you need in less time. SENS MODE, DISC MODE, NOTCH MODE, A-M MODE, VOL MODE, adjusting the five detection modes can improve your detection efficiency, allowing you to efficiently search for the desired metal.
  • Intuitive LCD control box: With the bigger backlight LCD display, COOYES metal detector will give you precise data about the type, depth, and sensitivity level of the metal target, helping you to find gold and other treasure efficiently.
  • Easy-assemble and Portable Metal Detector: COOYES metal detector is very easy to assemble and use, can be folded to carry, suitable for metal detection professionals and beginners to search for treasure. The package also comes with headphones so you can focus on detection and not miss any valid instructions.
  • Ergonomic-Handle & Adjustable-Stem: COOYES ergonomic handheld metal detector designs for more comfort and effortless usage. The 43-56in length of the stem can be flexibly adjusted to suit adults of different heights and is also suitable for kids. COOYES metal detector has honored the patent design and is definitely an ideal metal detector for professionals.
  • Powerful Search Function: With 10" wide search coil probe, COOYES metal detector for adults can freely search and detect hidden metal 8" deep underground. Not only can gold be found in eight inches of deep water, but our metal detectors also excel in shallow water. It is a perfect choice for the beach, garden, forest, or lawn.
  • Search Modes - All Metal / Field / Park / Beach
  • IP68 - Fully submersible up to 3 meters (10 ft) and protected from total dust ingress.
  • Notch Discrimination - Discriminates Target IDs of unwanted metals.
  • Fabulous Lighting for Night & Underwater Use - SIMPLEX+ has it all - LCD Backlight, Keypad Backlight and LED Flashlight.
  • Iron Volume - Turns off or adjusts the volume of the low iron tone.

What to Look For in a most popular metal detectors?

Upon looking for the perfect most popular metal detectors, a lot of things should be taken into account. Each item has its own challenge of purchasing.  As a result of the formation, we're here to help, advise, and provide answers to these problems.

Please keep in mind the following points to select most popular metal detectors that fit you most:

Operating Frequency

The frequency of the metal detector's signal to the receiver is a key factor. It is easier to locate objects deep beneath the earth if the frequency is lower. For smaller objects closer to the surface, high frequency metal detectors can be used. The majority of beginner metal detectors can be used for any purpose and have a low-to-medium frequency. Higher frequencies can be used to search for gold.

Waterproof/Weatherproof

Metal detectors can be outdoors so it is important to have weatherproofing. Many models can be used at the beach or in rainy conditions without worrying about damage. However, some models can even be submerged. Some models can even be used to explore the depths of the ocean while scuba diving. The majority of waterproof models are simple waterproof coils that allow users to look in shallow waters. To avoid any damage to the metal detector, make sure you verify all manufacturer specifications.

Discrimination Features And Search Modes

Target identification is a key component of metal detectors that are more sophisticated. Advanced metal detectors not only notify the user when a metallic object is found, but they also identify what kind of object it was. Some models let you set search settings to find coins, relics and jewelry. You may be able to see or hear the device indicate what type of object was found. An auditory system is used by some people. It makes louder and more high-pitched sounds when valuable objects are found, while making a lower-pitched, quieter sound for low-value objects. Advanced models display an image that indicates the type of object detected. You can also choose from different search modes depending on the terrain. This allows you to determine whether you're in a field or a park.

Ground Balance

A metal detector can be set off by trace amounts of earth metals. This is a problem that many people have to deal with. To avoid false readings, metal detectors equipped with ground balance features ignore natural metals. Metal detectors can perform ground balance in many ways. The automatic ground balance features don't need user intervention. Manual ground balancing requires user input. Entry-level metal detectors typically offer automatic ground balance for maximum ease of use.

Depth Detection

You might be surprised at the exciting discoveries made by detectors that dig deeper than normal. However, detectors that can detect deeper depths often have higher prices. Remember that depth detection is affected by variables such as soil composition and the size of an object buried.

Weight

Many metal detectors spend hours in the field or on the beaches. A lightweight model is a good choice as it allows you to move around the equipment more easily. A lightweight model is especially appreciated by children and people with shoulder or back problems. Metal detectors with higher end features tend to be heavier than those that are lower-end. Entry-level models, however, can be carried easily and weigh less. A metal detector less than five pounds will provide the best searching experience. You might also consider models that allow for height adjustment. This makes it easier to use by both tall and short users.

FAQs

Are Cheap Metal Detectors Any Good?

Metal detector prices vary greatly. While higher-end models offer greater performance, lower-end models are great for those who are just starting out in the hobby.

How Deep Do Metal Detectors Go?

Metal detector depths can be very different. Metal detectors that are less expensive can only detect metal that is a few inches below the soil. The most powerful detectors are capable of finding metal and gold as deep as 2 feet below the ground. It is easier to locate larger nuggets at greater depth.

Can Anyone Use A Metal Detector?

The majority of entry-level metal detectors can be used quickly and easily. To learn the best from the detector, it is a good idea to reach out to local clubs and organizations to help you get started.

How Does Metal Detecting Differ When Searching On A Beach Compared To Searching In Dirt?

One thing is that the environment at the beach can make electronics very sensitive. You need to choose a detector that's designed specifically for this type of environment. You will need a strainer or scoop to dig in the sand. Be aware of the tides, as there is different terrain to explore at low tide. Check the regulations regarding metal detection if you are going to be at a public beach. You might not be allowed to dig up any metal you find.

Which Metal Detector Can I Use In The Water?

Before you place any metal detector in water, it is important that the manufacturer has checked its waterproof rating. While some metal detectors can be completely submerged in water, others are not waterproof.

How Do I Look For Gold With A Metal Detector?

Finding gold can sometimes be difficult. It's worth looking for gold where it isn't known has been before, especially if you are just beginning. You can pick your location and then search in a systematic manner. If you locate a grain or gold in an area you are interested in, you can expand your search by traveling in a grid to cover that entire area. If there is more gold in an area, it will be naturally found.

The list of most popular metal detectors will be regularly updated to be included in additional data by our editor's team. Please keep an eye around for any amendments made to our website.

Our consultants could support you with problems related to most popular metal detectors and other things as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need advice.


2 ratings

About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio