Rating of the TOP-14 best metal detectors by search depth: an overview of budget and professional models in 2022

The best metal detectors - review and rating. Selection criteria, features of amateur and professional models. Technical parameters, pros and cons of metal detectors.

A metal detector is an indispensable device for people looking underground for non-ferrous and ferrous metals, coins, gold, and ancient artifacts.

The device can be useful when searching for a hidden pipeline, buried metal structures.

In this review, we will consider the best amateur and professional metal detectors, analyze the features and parameters of popular models.

Key criteria for choosing a metal detector

Equipment of this type, especially professional models, is expensive and is bought for more than one season.

For this reason, the choice of a metal detector must be approached responsibly. First of all, you need to consider the following:

Type and purpose.
The most common ground metal detectors are designed to search for metal objects underground.
Full-sized models provide the main search, pin-pointers are an auxiliary tool for spot research.
Ground-underwater metal detectors are waterproof and can be used underwater.
Depth of detection.
This parameter is key.
It characterizes the depth at which the metal detector is able to detect large/medium metal objects with high accuracy and with less accuracy small objects, coins, particles.
Operating frequency.
The high frequency of detection allows you to find objects made of metals with low conductivity, small, thin and light objects at shallow depths.
Low-frequency metal detectors work better with large and deep objects.
detection method.
The Very Low Frequency (VLF) option is the most common today.
The method uses a relatively low signal frequency, which provides a small influence of the ground on the detection efficiency.
Pulse Induction (PI) options with the worst quality of discrimination and VFLEX with digital signal processing are less common.
Discriminator.
This function provides a definition of a metal property.
In conjunction with the sensitivity setting module, it allows you to filter out certain types of metals and register the ones necessary for the operator.
coil shape.
This parameter is mainly responsible for the size of the detection zone.
The concentric element provides a narrow search band and is not efficient, round and elliptical coils cover a wide area with a maximum efficiency/accuracy balance.
Food.
Modern portable metal detectors, depending on the model, are powered by batteries or accumulators.
The former require periodic replacement of dead cells, the latter require an energy source for recharging.
Additional features.
As a rule, metal detectors are supplemented with a speaker for sound notification, a headphone output, an armrest for comfortable searching, and a battery or accumulator charge indicator.
Additional functionality significantly increases the usability of the device.

The best budget models

The metal detectors considered in the rating are entry-level devices. This is the best choice for beginner treasure hunters.

TOP-4 rating of the best budget metal detectors with a good search depth based on customer reviews and ratings.

MD4030

The MD 4030 metal detector is a popular, reliable and extremely easy to use device that allows you to search for any type of metal, including gold and silver.

The device is equipped with a convenient height adjustment of the rod to adjust to the user's height, a waterproof coil that provides search for metal objects in damp places.

The detection depth in this model reaches 100 cm.

It is possible to connect headphones, adjust discrimination and sensitivity.

The metal detector is powered by 2 Krona batteries, which are included in the kit.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 1 m;
operating frequency - 5 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 2 elements "Krona";
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 0.9 kg.

Advantages

affordable price tag;
light weight;
good sensitivity;
sealed coil.

Flaws

unstable bar;
small search depth;
false positives are possible.

MD 5090 (MD 4030 Pro)

The MD 5090 metal detector (MD 4030 Pro) is a popular, reliable and easy-to-use device with a sensitive, powerful coil and an ergonomic armrest with a fixing strap.

The device can be used to search for ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

The device is equipped with a comfortable rod with height adjustment, a waterproof coil, and an ergonomic control unit.

The detection depth of the device is 80 cm. The armrest is supplemented with a belt.

The metal detector supports the connection of headphones, has a discrimination and sensitivity setting.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 0.8 m;
operating frequency - 5 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 2 elements "Krona";
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 0.95 kg.

Advantages

light weight;
compact dimensions;
Ease of use;
good equipment.

Flaws

low sensitivity;
fast battery discharge;
uncomfortable armrest.

RGK MD-10

The RGK MD-10 ground metal detector with an intuitive control panel equipped with a dial indicator and rotary controls will provide a comfortable search for metal artifacts at a depth of up to 30 cm.

The maximum length of the rod of the device is 107 cm - this guarantees the possibility of comfortable use of the equipment by any user.

The model uses the VLF detection method. The metal detector is equipped with a round 165 mm coil, a sound sensor.

Headphones can be connected if necessary.

The device is powered by 2 Krona batteries, there is an indication of a low charge of sources.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 0.3 m;
operating frequency - 5 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 2 elements "Krona";
frame/coil shape - round;
features - headphone connection, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 0.97 kg.

Advantages

affordable cost;
ease of assembly;
Ease of use;
accurate detection.

Flaws

small search depth;
uncomfortable armrest;
lack of illumination.

MD1008A

The compact, lightweight, and intuitive entry-level MD1008A is designed for metal detecting by children or beginners.

The device is extremely easy to set up. The user can adjust the sensitivity of the search, the sound level of the built-in speaker.

The metal detector is made of high quality ABS plastic.

The model allows you to detect large and medium-sized metal objects at a depth of up to 30 cm, small objects at a depth of 5-10 cm.

The device is equipped with an informative LCD display. The coil size is 15.5 cm.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 0.3 m;
operating frequency - 55.2 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 1 Krona element;
frame/coil shape - round;
features - speaker, auto-balancing, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 0.56 kg.

Advantages

ease of operation;
light weight;
compactness;
affordable cost.

Flaws

low sensitivity;
low accuracy;
basic functionality.

The best models with a search depth of up to 3 meters

The considered metal detectors are the ideal solution for ground and underwater searches. Suitable for amateurs and professionals.

An overview of the best handheld metal detectors with a search depth of up to 3 meters in terms of price and quality.

Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus

Ground and underwater metal detector Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus in a reliable waterproof case will allow you to search for artifacts in water and on land.

The device supports the connection of wireless headphones, is equipped with a rechargeable battery with a capacity of 2300 mAh.

Work in the dark is facilitated by the backlight of the display and LED-lamp.

The device has 4 preset search modes - "Metals", "Beach", "Field", "Park".

The sensing element is a double-circuit coil with a diameter of 11 inches with additional protection.

The length of the metal detector when folded is 63 cm. It is possible to update the basic software.

Specifications:

purpose/type — ground, underwater;
detection depth - 3 m;
operating frequency - 12 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
power supply - battery;
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, vibration, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.3 kg.

Advantages

simple and intuitive interface;
battery power;
fast charging;
good accuracy;
high sensitivity.

Flaws

heavy model;
stamped pen;
unstable bar.

Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT

The Garrett AT Pro Ground/Underwater Metal Detector with the Pro-Pointer AT Pinpointer is a professional level kit designed to detect metal objects in water and ground.

The equipment has an increased level of moisture protection of electronic components and connections.

The device can withstand immersion in water to a depth of 3 meters.

The metal detector is equipped with a DD-coil, a complex discrimination system, sound indication, LCD display and a push-button control panel.

The pin-pointer is characterized by the presence of a static search system, LED flashlight indicator, sensitivity auto-adjustment.

Specifications:

purpose/type — ground, underwater;
detection depth - 3 m;
operating frequency - 15 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, armrest, manual and automatic balancing, moisture protection, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.4 kg.

Advantages

great depth of search;
decent functionality;
solid equipment;
detailed instructions.

Flaws

inconvenient cable connection;
fast battery drain.

Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus WHP

The ground and underwater metal detector Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus WHP in a reliable waterproof case will provide a comfortable search for targets in various environments.

The device is equipped with an 11-inch DD-coil operating at a frequency of 12 kHz.

The plastic casing reliably protects the detector from external influences.

The device is controlled through an intuitive interface.

The model is equipped with polyphonic sound signals, VDI settings from 0 to 99, a system for determining the depth of the search for targets and other features.

On board there is a compact LED-lantern. The package includes wireless headphones.

Specifications:

purpose/type — ground, underwater;
detection depth - 3 m;
operating frequency - 12 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
power supply - battery;
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, vibration, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.3 kg.

Advantages

high quality materials;
water resistance;
clear and convenient menu;
ease of setup.

Flaws

a kind of sound signal;
long charge;
great weight.

The best models with a search depth of up to 1.5 meters

Metal detectors with a detection depth of up to 150 cm are the golden mean with the best combination of price and quality. Recommended for a wide range of users.

Garrett ACE 250

The Garrett ACE 250 RUS model with five preset programs for maximum efficiency will provide a stable search for metal objects in the ground at a depth of up to 1.5 meters.

The device supports an operating frequency of 6.5 kHz.

It is equipped with a system for sorting and excluding large metal objects, a pinpointer button, a discriminator unit and a reliable S-shaped bar.

The interface of the device is clear even to an unprepared user, the control is entrusted to five ergonomic buttons.

The elliptical coil has good sensitivity, fast response and precise target acquisition.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 1.5 m;
operating frequency - 6.5 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.24 kg.

Advantages

compactness;
functionality;
accuracy of determination of metals;
reliability and unpretentiousness in work.

Flaws

no volume control;
small coil;
heavy model.

Garrett ACE 350

The ground metal detector Garrett ACE 350 Euro effectively determines ferrous and non-ferrous metals, providing the user with information through a separate indication on the LCD display.

The operating frequency of the device at 8.25 kHz provides accurate detection of small objects.

The large 22cm searchcoil guarantees excellent visibility at great depths.

The control unit is enclosed in a sealed and compact housing, its electronic part is reliably protected from shock and moisture.

The coil cable is provided with a special sheath that does not reduce elasticity at low temperatures. The component is as tight as possible and can be used to search in conditions with high humidity.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 1.2 m;
operating frequency - 8.25 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.27 kg.

Advantages

build quality;
Ease of controls;
clear signal;
autonomy;
functionality.

Flaws

hypersensitive at shallow depths;
high power consumption;
decent price tag.

Garrett ACE400i

The Garrett ACE 400i equipment with support for the VLF detection method and an operating frequency of 10 kHz is designed to effectively search for metal objects hidden in the ground at a depth of up to 1.2 meters.

The device is equipped with a large elliptical coil, the overall dimensions of the latter are 21.6 × 27.9 cm.

The presented metal detector supports work with headphones, the headset is included in the package.

The built-in discriminator increases the efficiency of the device. The detector allows you to detect the smallest objects at a depth of up to 35 cm.

The bar of the product is adjustable in length from 106 to 129 cm. The device is powered by 4 AA-format elements.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 1.2 m;
operating frequency - 10 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, auto-balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.32 kg.

Advantages

excellent ergonomics;
ease of assembly;
performance quality;
waterproof coil.

Flaws

unpleasant sound signal;
branded handle;
great weight.

Top Professional Models

Advanced metal detectors are characterized by high sensitivity, accuracy, powerful electronics. This is the best choice for professionals.

Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack

The professional model Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack with a waterproof 12-inch searchcoil will allow you to search for artifacts at considerable depth in the ground.

The presented device is equipped with a discriminator, a speaker, a sensitivity adjustment system.

The metal detector supports 4 operating modes - "Coins", "Relics", "Jewelry", "Metal".

Custom mode allows you to save and apply individual settings.

The equipment uses the MULTI-IQ detection method. The package includes ergonomic wireless Bluetooth headphones.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 0.8 m;
operating frequency - multirange;
detection method - MULTI-IQ;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.2 kg.

Advantages

informative interface;
simple control;
compact dimensions;
wireless headphones included;
multifrequency range.

Flaws

not democratic price tag;
cover is not the best quality;
great weight.

Minelab X-Terra 705

The popular Minelab X-Terra 705 model with a round waterproof DD-type coil is an excellent choice for instrument search enthusiasts, professional explorers and geologists conducting soil exploration.

The instrument operates using the VFLEX detection method. The device allows you to find the smallest artifacts at a considerable depth.

The built-in discriminator ensures that the alert is turned off when ferrous metal products are detected.

The metal detector is powered by 4 AA batteries. The product is complemented by a low battery indicator, a visual and audible signal system, a comfortable and ergonomic armrest.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 2.5 m;
operating frequency - 7.5 kHz;
detection method - VLFEX;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.36 kg.

Advantages

excellent autonomy;
loud and clear signal;
large, informative display;
impressive search depth.

Flaws

heavy model;
weak coil mounts.

Minelab Equinox 600

The advanced Minelab Equinox 600 ground metal detector, using the MULTI-IQ detection method, is a professional-grade equipment that allows you to find metal objects with high efficiency.

The protected design of the sensitive element guarantees reliable operation of the device in conditions with high humidity.

The device has 3 search modes - "Park", "Beach" and "Field".

The device is equipped with a large LCD display, push-button control panel.

The round coil is characterized by a significant diameter (27.9 cm). The built-in speaker and headphone output provide the user with audio information.

The package includes a headset, a USB cable for charging the battery, and a protective cover for the display.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 0.9 m;
operating frequency - 5/10/15 kHz;
detection method - MULTI-IQ;
power supply - battery;
frame/coil shape - round;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, manual and automatic balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.34 kg.

Advantages

high accuracy;
response speed;
many settings;
large display;
support for wireless headphones;
moisture protection of the coil and block.

Flaws

low search depth;
fast battery discharge;
lack of detailed instructions.

Fisher F75

The Fisher F75 professional equipment is a ground-type metal detector designed to search for coins, gold jewelry and other artifacts at a depth of up to 1.2 meters.

The presented device supports operation at a frequency of 13 kHz.

The product is able to selectively detect various objects, filter out unnecessary ones, and even determine their composition.

For this, the metal detector is equipped with a built-in discriminator, which significantly saves time and effort.

The device is equipped with a large 27.9 cm elliptical coil, sensitivity adjustment system, PinPoint option for the most accurate determination of the depth of the found object.

Specifications:

purpose/type - ground;
detection depth - 1.2 m;
operating frequency - 13 kHz;
detection method - VLF;
food - 4 AA elements;
frame/coil shape - ellipse;
features - discriminator, headphone connection, speaker, armrest, manual and automatic balancing, moisture protection, tone identification, sensitivity adjustment;
the weight of the metal detector is 1.6 kg.

Advantages

fast processor;
high accuracy;
functionality;
Ease of use.

Flaws

high price;
great weight.

Reviews

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Useful video

This video provides an overview of the best budget metal detectors for finding scrap metal:

Conclusion

A metal detector is a popular device for people searching for non-ferrous and ferrous metals, coins, gold items, ancient artifacts, and treasures.
Ground metal detectors are designed to search for metal objects underground, ground-underwater models can be used underwater.
When choosing, you should pay attention to the type, purpose, technical parameters (search depth, frequency, power), as well as the functionality of the device.

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