TOP 20 best metal detectors: 2021 ranking by search depth and which budget model to choose

Over the past few decades, the hobby of searching for antiques and relics has become very popular. The main tool in this activity is a metal detector, originally a military invention. Which model can you recommend to a beginner? Are there devices suitable for underwater searching?

What is the operating principle of this device?

You may encounter these questions when deciding to purchase a metal detector.

We have compiled a rating of the most reliable and popular devices for different skill levels in terms of price/quality ratio. The information was obtained from official sources - websites of manufacturing companies and forums with expert assessments.

We were able to identify not only the main parameters of the devices, but also create a list of their strengths and weaknesses.

Rating of the TOP 20 best metal detectors by search depth 2020-2021

Pseudo-rating of metal detectors for gold

What does the typical rating look like in 80% of articles about metal detectors for gold and coins? Let's model. What do MDs do for newcomers in this ranking? Let's leave this question to the conscience of the compilers.

3rd place. Garrett Ace 400i

The 400th Asya is the successor to the line of simple metal detectors from Garrett. By the way, in the mentioned “ratings”, instead of 400, the Ace 350 Euro from ten years ago may well appear. There are still many of these in sellers’ warehouses; they need to be sold somehow.

400 and 350 are essentially digging sticks with a minimum of settings and a cool look. Not heavy, quite comfortable, with a problematic barbell and a fragile armrest.

Let's go through the key criteria.

• Frequency - 10 kHz. For coins it’s still a bit too far, but for gold it’s a bit low.
• The size of the object of discrimination is at an average level. With luck, you can even lift the scale if it lies flat and shallow. Hardly suitable for placer gold.
• Separation. vDI for 100 segments, which, in principle, gives hope.
• Automatic ground balancing. This is good.

Included in the first price segment - offered at a price of 28-29 thousand rubles.

2nd place. Teknetics Eurotek Pro 11DD

What's great about this metal detector is the coil. Not concentric, with a cone-shaped signal and very close wiring. And wedge, when you can walk faster.

Otherwise, the technical characteristics are almost identical to the previous participant in the retro rating, but the lack of ground detuning should plunge a potential Jack London into despondency.

Don't let the treasure hunter be fooled by the Pro add-on - this is only the configuration level. It says that there are some goodies in a beautiful box with the inscription Teknetics Eurotek Pro.

1 place. Minelab X-terra 305

Nothing other than the presence of deposits of 305 graters in warehouses explains the fact that this model appeared in the rating. Glory to labor, there is a manual ground balance, at least. The rest is the discrimination setting excluding 2 or 4 segments on the left out of 12. With a high-frequency coil it will produce 18.75 kHz. But there are only two questions. The first one is why not the 505th? Second - why not the 705? Mystery of the century!

All of the listed devices can lay claim to the only gold available to them - earrings and rings from the beach. They take chains, especially fragmented ones, only under very fortunate circumstances.

TOP 4 best metal detectors by search depth by price/quality for 2021

Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro-Pack

One of the leaders in sales and positive customer reviews in 2021 was this ground metal detector from Minelab.

It is a professional device with good sensitivity to various non-ferrous and precious metals, and is also capable of filtering interference from foreign, unnecessary objects that are not the object of the search. Powered by four AA batteries, they last for 10 hours of autonomy.

The alert signal has different tones and is output to the built-in speaker; there is also an output for headphones, which are not included in the package and must be purchased separately.

The coil is protected from moisture, so it is suitable for searching in wet ground and can even be used in the surf on the beach. The device is very light, the rod is telescopic, extends up to 135 centimeters.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF
2. Maximum depth - up to 90 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - from 9 to 19.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

pros

• lightweight, extendable;
• there is moisture protection for the coil;
• good autonomy indicators;
• wide range of settings.

Minuses

• not detected.

Garrett AT Pro + Pro-Pointer AT

Representative of professional metal detectors for working in dry and wet soil, as well as under water due to the high degree of protection from moisture . Powered by four AA batteries, the charge is consumed economically, and the autonomy is maintained for up to 20 hours.

There is both automatic ground balancing and manual.

The powerful radiation of the elliptical coil allows you to search for objects located at a depth of up to three meters, without being distracted by the noise of foreign objects.

The kit includes a pinpointer that can be used when discrimination is turned off.

Sensitivity can also be adjusted to suit your needs. The sound signal is sent to the headphones that are included in the package. The comfortable armrest and light weight ensure comfortable use even after several hours of work.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 15.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• good sensitivity;
• works both on land and under water;
• wide range of equipment;
• good autonomy indicators.

Minuses

• small volume control range.

Makro Multi Kruzer

A reliable hand-held metal detector that is suitable for searching for objects not only in the ground, but also under water, since the device is completely sealed.

The metal detector is self-contained thanks to its own battery, the capacity of which is sufficient to provide up to 19 hours of operation. Charging takes about six to seven hours. There is automatic ground balancing and the ability to set it manually.

Sound notification is provided through the built-in speaker and wireless headphones included in the package.

Thanks to the good radiation from the search coil, the detection depth of large objects reaches one meter, and small ones - up to 50 centimeters, which is a very good indicator for such a universal device.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 19.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• own battery, saving on batteries;
• excellent protection against moisture;
• comfortable to hold in hand;
• There are headphones included.

Minuses

• the price is a little high.

Nokta&Makro Anfibio Multi

Another popular professional metal detector for ground and underwater work, with a comfortable armrest and a small screen.

Autonomy lasting up to 19 hours is provided by its own battery, which takes about six hours to charge. The package includes wireless headphones; the signal volume is not adjustable.

Due to the fact that the coil and the entire body have a high level of protection from water, which does not affect the sensitivity of the device, it shows good results on wet soil, on the coast, and under water.

The detection depth reaches one and a half meters. There is sensitivity adjustment, discrimination, automatic and manual ground balancing. The controls are quite simple, maximally adapted to the user.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to 1.5 meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 20.
4. Weight - 1.7 kg.

pros

• you can install coils of different brands;
• good, high-quality assembly;
• Ideal for finding coins.

Minuses

• a bit heavy compared to similar models;
• not suitable for searching for military rarities.

OKM eXp 4000, $14,000

eXp 4000
metal detector is by far one of the most effective geophysical tools of all 3D terrestrial scanners. This 3D metal detector is mainly used by treasure hunters and archaeologists who are looking for gold or hidden jewelry.

Many finds around the world prove that the eXp 4000 meets all the requirements needed to successfully detect valuable metals. With the eXp 4000 ground scanner, many interesting things can be found at depths that are inaccessible to most other metal detectors.

The device is equipped with the function of distinguishing metals (gold, silver, iron), detecting cavities (bunkers, tunnels, burial chambers, graves), a simple and clear menu with voice output.

The device is easy to operate. No PC required for operation. To facilitate work with the eXp 4000 geophysical measuring device and subsequent data evaluation, the developers have integrated the following functions: automatic display of object differentiation, automatic signal stabilization during measurement, automatic antenna identification, pre-filtering of potential mineral structures.

TOP 4 best metal detectors for a beginner

Minelab Vanquish 440

One of the best representatives of ground metal detectors for a beginner, with both simple and more extensive settings.

The butterfly-shaped coil is protected from moisture, so it can be used in wet soil and on the beach, but the device cannot be immersed under water - the power supply and display are not protected from moisture.

Powered by four AA batteries, the set is enough for 8 hours of continuous searching.

In addition to reel protection, the package includes detailed instructions and a rain cover. All settings and indicators are displayed on a small screen without backlight; there is discrimination, which allows you not to be distracted by extraneous interference.

The sound signal is output to the built-in speaker, there is an output for headphones, which are purchased separately.

In addition to the original coil, you can supply others from third-party manufacturers.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to one meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - multi-frequency.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

pros

• good pinpointer;
• compact, quickly disassembled;
• protection of the coil from moisture.

Minuses

• not suitable for submersion;
• There is not enough backlight for the display.

Bounty Hunter Tracker IV

An American-made product that is affordable and has positive ratings from users.

An excellent option for those new to searching, since it has one, clear and effective program for detecting valuable items. It does not require a lot of time to understand the settings, without a screen, it works with a single frequency of 6.6 kHz.

There is a headphone jack, a sensitive coil (not protected from moisture), there is an automatic ground balance.

The device is very light and mobile, and the rod is a sliding type with an adjustable length from 114 to 135 centimeters.

The comfortable armrest ensures that the device fits perfectly in your hand..

The work is carried out using two 9-volt batteries, this is enough for 5-6 hours of continuous search. The detection depth of small objects ranges from 15 to 30 centimeters, large objects vary at a depth of up to 90 centimeters.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 90 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.18 kg.

pros

• convenient body, light weight;
• simple settings;
• automatic ground adjustment;
• good indicator of battery operation.

Minuses

• sometimes reacts to noises from foreign objects.

Minelab Go-Find 66

A basic metal detector equipped with advanced features . Unusual coil

shape, its diameter is 25 centimeters, it is not afraid of moisture and does not need to install additional protection.

The device is quite sensitive, the detection depth reaches 80 centimeters, and it is capable of catching large objects a dozen or two deeper.

Very compact, weighing one kilogram, fits perfectly in the hand, equipped with a comfortable armrest. There is an LED indication that notifies you what metal the item was found from (red - iron, green - jewelry or non-ferrous metal). For 3-4 hours of searching you will need a set of four AA batteries.

Equipped with Bluetooth for communication with the owner's smartphone . There is special software, which, however, sometimes produces errors.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VFLEX.
2. Maximum depth - 80 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 7.8.
4. Weight - 1.06 kg.

pros

• sensitive, ignores interference from foreign objects;
• lightweight, compact;
• comfortable to hold;
• not afraid of moisture.

Minuses

• body made of flimsy plastic;
• Sometimes software glitches occur.

Bounty Hunter Fast Tracker

A lightweight, compact, reliable ground metal detector that will allow you to quickly master the basics of searching for rarities in both wet and dry ground.

There is moisture protection for the coil, it works from two crowns. Sound tone, the signal is output to the speaker or through headphones, without adjusting the volume. Ground balancing is automatic only; the indicators cannot be adjusted manually.

The detection depth of large objects reaches 70 centimeters; buttons and coins can be found at a depth of up to 40 centimeters.

There is discrimination, you can balance it yourself so that the device does not react to extraneous interference from unnecessary objects.

The weight of the device with all components is 1300 grams; for ease of carrying, an ergonomic armrest is installed on the bar, which relieves the load from the shoulder and back.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method -VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 70 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

pros

• the coil is protected from moisture;
• compact, lightweight;
• there is a headphone output;
• Suitable for wet soil.

Minuses

• no manual ground balancing.

What to look for when choosing a metal detector

If you are purchasing a metal detector for the first time, look at 6 main parameters:

1. Search coil type. Models with Mono and Double-D coils are available on the market. The first is suitable for working on the site of former buildings, landfills and other areas littered with metal waste. Mono is capable of filtering out unnecessary objects and finding targets at depth. Double-D is worth buying if you plan to scan a relatively clean area: a beach, a forest. The coil is suitable for working with large areas and highly mineralized soil.
2. Detection depth. The detector's search capabilities depend on the composition of the soil and the size of the target. The more homogeneous the soil and the larger the object, the easier it will be to find the latter. For most models, the detection depth is limited to 1-2.5 meters, for deep ones - 4-6 meters. However, it is worth considering that the indicator is measured in laboratory conditions. In reality, due to more difficult conditions, the depth will be less. On average, detectors detect a coin in clay soils at a depth of 1-1.5 shovels.
3. Detection rate. The criterion affects the type of targets that the detector is capable of detecting. Metal detectors operate on one, simultaneously on several, or with the ability to switch frequencies. The average is 7 kHz. At a low frequency of 3-5 kHz, you can search for large objects lying deep in the soil. The average frequency of 6-8 kHz is universal - it allows you to detect coins and war trophies. High at 14-20 kHz is needed for working with small things, ultra-high at 20 kHz for small targets like nuggets.
4. Discriminator. Necessary to weed out unnecessary items. The function is able to detect the type of metal at depth and avoid debris. The higher the price of the model, the better the discriminator works: in budget metals, metals are identified by one parameter, in expensive ones – by two or more.
5. Dimensions and weight. If you order a metal detector online, go to the store and “try on” the chosen model. During searches, you have to carry the detector in your hands for a long time - the device must be light and, as far as possible, compact.
6. Number of built-in programs. In good models, there are up to 10 modes, aimed at searching for different targets and limited by the composition and contamination of the soil conditions. The more programs, the easier it will be to operate the device - turn it on and go. Before purchasing, look at the description of the preset modes and decide which ones will be useful and which ones you can discard in favor of budget detectors.

Don't forget to read the reviews of your favorite coin detector. Look not on review sites, but on thematic forums. Professional search engines will tell you about the shortcomings of the detector and recommend a successful replacement.

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TOP 4 best metal detectors with detection depth up to 1.5 meters

Minelab E-Trac (Pro package)

One of the best ground-type metal detectors for professionals . There is a setting

frequencies (about 28), sensitivity, ground mineralization and discrimination.

The coil has a diameter of 28 cm, is equipped with moisture protection, and has a small display on which information about the contents of the soil is displayed as a coordinate system.

The device runs on 8 AA batteries.

The metal detector is very lightweight, with a comfortable armrest and a tightly assembled body made of durable plastic.

It is possible to connect the device to a computer to exchange settings and search data with colleagues.

Thanks to wide settings and good balance, the detection depth of even small objects reaches 100 centimeters, so this device is rightfully considered a leader among ground metal detectors.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method: FBS.
2. Maximum depth - 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 1.5, 100.
4. Weight - 2 kg.

pros

• reliable, high-quality assembly;
• comfortable;
• there is a noise protection mechanism;
• a large number of settings and functions;
• creates a visual picture of the soil.

Minuses

• a bit heavy;
• requires significant search experience.

XP Metal Detectors ORX

A French metal detector for professionals that meets all basic search engine requests in 2021.

Very light, weighing only 760 grams, with a telescopic rod made of molded plastic without any weights. It works with a wide range of frequencies, so it is effective in searching for both metal and precious items.

It is possible to use automatic programs specified by the manufacturer or set your own, custom ones.

The device is very sensitive, does not respond to extraneous noise from iron debris, and can be used in “cluttered” areas.

The package includes wireless headphones, the device runs on its own battery . The coil is protected from water, which allows you to search in shallow water by immersing the metal detector 1 meter under water.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - from 13 to 59.
4. Weight - 760 grams.

pros

• functionality;
• suitable for searching in soil and water;
• sensitive to precious metals;
• there are automatic settings.

Minuses

• a bit expensive

Minelab Vanquish 340

Nothing superfluous, only useful settings that will be understandable to any beginner.

Lightweight, with a molded plastic body.

The software is updated regularly. This is a ground type of metal detector, but the coil is protected from moisture and can be used on the coast (without submersion under water).

Powered by 4 AA batteries, rechargeable batteries can be used.

There are three automatic modes - coin, relic and all metals. The audio alert has four volume levels and three tone levels, and has discrimination balancing that eliminates unnecessary interference.

The device folds easily for easy transportation and is not afraid of salt water..

There is a built-in speaker, and the package also includes wired headphones with a 3.5 mm jack. The control unit is waterproof, so you can use the device even in heavy, pouring rain.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 1 meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.6.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

pros

• high degree of protection against moisture;
• three levels of tonality;
• four volume levels;
• There are automatic modes and manual settings.

Minuses

• It is not recommended to immerse completely under water.

Minelab Go-Find 44

A ground metal detector that is suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals in light areas.

Durable molded plastic construction with low weight and comfortable armrest.

Powered by four AA batteries, they last for almost 40 hours . The device is very durable and equipped with a small display, which makes it easy to customize the metal detector to suit you.

This device cannot be called sensitive, so the detection depth is only 80 centimeters.

By the way, there is also a Bluetooth module, which means you can connect to your own smartphone to gain access to advanced functionality.

The device is capable of filtering noise from foreign objects, and its price is ideal for a novice search engine.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VFLEX.
2. Maximum depth - 80 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 7.8.
4. Weight - 1.06 kg.

pros

• easy;
• affordable price tag;
• convenient settings;
• can be connected to a smartphone.

Minuses

• often misses due to low sensitivity.

Minelab GPZ 7000

Without going far from the Australian deserts, let's look at one of Minelab's flagships - the GPZ 7000 model. Like its predecessor, the Minelab GPX 5000, the GPZ 7000 is designed for searching for gold - nuggets and loose gold, including particles weighing less than 1 gram. ZVT technology - Zero Voltage Transmission - provides 40% greater depth than its predecessors, but has virtually no discrimination, despite the presence of VDI display and hodograph. There are several “steps” of ground balance.

On board:

• GPS and map linking;
• direct connection to the computer;
• large color display;
• 13x14 inch Super-D reel with immersion up to 1 meter;
• built-in battery;
• Koss wired headphones;
• wireless headphone connection module.

This whole thing weighs 3.32 kg, so the kit includes an advanced unloading vest with additional spacers and guides.

Advantages:

• unsurpassed gold depth;
• high technology on board.

Flaws:

• prices from Russian dealers for this model start at 625,000 rubles - there are domestic cars that are cheaper;
• low selectivity;
• high weight.

TOP 4 best budget metal detectors

Bounty Hunter Discovery 2200

A device that is well suited for a novice search engine due to its ease of setup and use..

For comfortable use, the manufacturer took care of a small display and alarm alerts at four tone levels. It has a mono coil with a diameter of 20 cm with a conical field.

The most effective depth for detecting objects (coins, buttons) is 15 cm, it is also capable of distinguishing such things up to 30 cm, and large objects weighing about 1000 grams will be detected at a depth of 60 cm.

The signal can be filtered without wasting time on any metal debris.

This function will definitely come in handy in places where there are a lot of things and fragments in the ground.

You can adjust the sensitivity and adjust the device to the degree of soil mineralization.

The body is well built, weighs just over one kilogram and does not weigh on your arm or shoulder.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 60 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.7.
4. Weight - 1.13 kg.

pros

• quickly configured;
• distinguishes interference from objects containing unnecessary metal;
• ideal as a first device;
• affordable;
• several types of signal.

Minuses

• constant movement from side to side is necessary;
• does not work well with wet soil and is not suitable for searching in water.

Garrett ACE 200i

The ACE series, produced by this brand of metal detectors, has become an excellent option for learning to work with this type of device..

Therefore, if you are new to searching, take a closer look at the 200i model, which has proven itself well among users. The device is unpretentious, does not require a protective cover for the reel, and is easy to set up and operate.

This metal detector can be given even to a child..

Operates at low frequency and is very sensitive to copper, bronze, silver and other similar highly conductive metals.

There is a discrimination system that will allow you to conduct a targeted search for coins, buttons and other similar items.

Very economical in terms of energy consumption, one set of AA batteries will last for almost four months of regular use.

This model is an example of a good balance of price and functionality.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 90.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.5.
4. Weight - 1.27.

pros

• easy to set up and convenient to manage;
• the indicator provides clear information;
• works well in wet soil or water;
• economical energy consumption.

Minuses

• volume cannot be adjusted;
• Not a reliable coil plug.

Teknetics Eurotek

A well-assembled and balanced device for entry-level search, powered by crown.

Here, a significant drawback of the device is immediately revealed - the charge will last for no more than 8-10 hours of operation.

However, for its cost, the device has good sensitivity and is very easy to set up, while the detection depth of large objects is about 100 centimeters.

The device has only two main functions that can be configured: discrimination and sensitivity.

It performs equally well when working on dry and wet ground; it is not afraid of sand, so it can also be used on the beach. It can catch small fragments and objects at a depth of up to 30 cm.

When discrimination is turned off, the metal detector can be used as a pinpointer (static) . Keep in mind that the headphone jack is very non-standard and you will have to look for a suitable adapter.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - 100 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 7.
4. Weight - 1 kg.

pros

• reliable but lightweight design;
• easy to use;
• has high sensitivity;
• Suitable for working on the beach.

Minuses

• The signal volume is not adjustable;
• The battery drains quickly.

Garrett ACE 150

The youngest and most budget model in the line, recommended by experts as a teaching device with simple settings without unnecessary functions.

Designed for a wide range of tasks. The three-section plastic rod has an S-shape and is convenient for transportation and operation, equipped with an armrest with soft foam.

This allows the user's elbow to anchor in one place and relieve the strain on the back, which can become evident after several hours of searching..

The device can be adjusted for sensitivity and discrimination; it has automatic ground balancing, but manual ground balancing is not available. The sound is output to the built-in speaker, but there is also a headphone output.

The power supply, designed for a set of four AA batteries, is responsible for autonomy..

The charge lasts for 40 hours. The coil is protected from moisture, so searches can be carried out not only in dry ground, but also in wet ground.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. Maximum depth - up to 80 cm.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 6.5.
4. Weight - 1.2 kg.

pros

• simple controls;
• comfortable and lightweight body;
• protection from moisture;
• The kit includes a CD with instructions;
• It is possible to connect headphones.

Minuses

• defines copper as gold;
• no pinpointer.

The best inexpensive metal detectors for beginners: budget up to 20,000 rubles.

The first category is addressed to the most inexperienced treasure hunters, for whom the chosen metal detector will be the first, and therefore it is very important to choose a model that will not empty your wallet - hence the conditional price limit of 20 thousand rubles. Of course, you may decide that it’s better to pay an additional 10 thousand and get a device at a higher level, but such a decision is only partly reasonable. Firstly, it is far from a fact that treasure hunting will captivate you enough to spend large sums on it. Yes, if you have been going out with your friends on searches for several years now, the answer is obvious, but in all other cases it is worth moderating your ardor. Secondly, more expensive models have more functionality, which is very difficult for a beginner to master. Therefore, even a significant advantage on paper over a budget model may turn out to be absolutely useless in the hands of an inexperienced search engine. In general, if you know exactly what you need, scroll to the next category. For beginners, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the rating of the best inexpensive metal detectors.

TOP 4 best underwater metal detectors

Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus

A reliable, high-quality metal detector with full protection from water, which is suitable for searching both in shallow and deep waters.

It has a huge number of settings, is very sensitive to various metals and produces powerful radiation, thanks to which the detection depth of objects reaches three meters.

The discriminator has 99 steps (most of which are not useful), there is a setting for soil mineralization.

Small objects are caught in the area of ​​50 centimeters. The coil has a diameter of 11 centimeters.

Conveniently, the rod here is extendable and can be increased to 132 cm.

The device runs on its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for almost eight hours of operation (charging will take half as much time). It is possible to purchase an additional battery separately.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 12.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• strong radiation and high sensitivity;
• many settings;
• high-quality protection against water, can be used at depth;
• There is a pinpointer.

Minuses

• You can get confused in the settings;
• There is only one type of coil.

Makro Kruzer

This device can be used to search for relics in the ground or underwater.

Good radiation from the coil leads to a detection depth of up to one meter.

Light in weight (albeit heavier than conventional ground ones), it is convenient for transportation and operation; the package includes wireless headphones and a charger for the original battery, providing autonomy for up to 19 hours.

There is a built-in speaker with three levels of alert tone. There is vibration.

You can adjust the sensitivity or use automatic modes; there is automatic and manual ground balancing.

This is a multifunctional metal detector that will help you find coins, buttons, pellets and other interesting antiques, and also indicate precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to one meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 14.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• headphones included;
• own battery;
• suitable for professionals;
• wide range of settings.

Minuses

• unreliable connection between the coil and the rod;
• sometimes it works in vain.

Deteknix Quest Quest PRO

A professional metal detector that is used to search for rarities in dry and wet soil, and can also be taken with you for diving to a depth of up to five meters.

All thanks to the high level of moisture protection of the reel and the entire body. The detection depth of large objects reaches three meters. The device is famous for its performance and high sensitivity.

Autonomous operation is ensured by its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for 30 hours of operation..

Therefore, the device is indispensable on trips and hikes. Easy to disassemble, convenient to transport. It can connect to smartphones and has a Bluetooth module for exchanging information and making maps.

It is very popular among professional search engines and is used to detect precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 20.
4. Weight - 1.35 kg.

pros

• high level of autonomy;
• Can be used at a depth of up to 5 meters;
• connection to gadgets;
• sensitive, many settings;
• affordable price tag for such functionality.

Minuses

• not detected.

Garrett At Max

Universal metal detector for searching in the ground and diving under water to a depth of three meters.

It features a wide range of settings for filtering out extraneous noise, ground balancing (automatic and manual), and sensitivity.

The maximum depth for detecting objects reaches three meters . A convenient telescopic rod and a soft armrest ensure comfortable work and convenient transportation.

Autonomy is ensured by a power supply consisting of four AA batteries (rechargeable batteries are also suitable).

The charge lasts for 20 hours, which is a good indicator . The package includes branded wireless headphones, without volume control, but with three alert tone levels.

Well suited for searching for various small items made of non-ferrous or precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 3 meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 13.6.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• affordable price tag;
• wireless headphones included;
• good autonomy (economical consumption);
• convenient telescopic rod.

Minuses

• not detected.

XP Deus

The envy of those who did not buy a Deus. And a source of pride for the owners. The lightest, wireless, French-refined metal detector is a treasure-hunting icon and a participant in 80% of comparative tests.

Includes: choice of one of five frequencies: 4, 8, 11, 16 or 25 kHz without replacing the coil, work with a control unit or wireless headphones without a unit, 4 ground-balance modes, discrimination and Notch - all according to the normal scheme. The depth is normal or slightly deeper for a $1000 unit.

The advantage and at the same time disadvantage of the XP Deus is that it only has original coils with a built-in signal processing unit - with practically a new coil, the treasure hunter buys a new MD with different characteristics. Therefore, the reels are very expensive.

Advantages:

• easy;
• modular;
• technologically advanced;
• price from 45,000 rubles without block.

Flaws:

• no non-original coils.

Object detection method

The most popular methods are those described below.:

1. VLF (very low frequency) – operating frequency up to 20 kHz. The receiving and transmitting coils are placed in one unit. Having received a signal, the device shows what kind of metal was detected or whether the item belongs to garbage.
2. VFLEX is an improved version of VLF , most often used by its creator, Minelab. Here, not an analog signal is processed, but a discrete one, which speeds up processing and makes it better, minimizing the number of errors.
3. PI – pulse induction . Only one coil is used as a receiver and transmitter; it is most often used in models for underwater search in salt water bodies.
4. FBS – full-band spectrum . Another product from Minelab. There are several frequency generators and they are used simultaneously, which allows you to obtain all the information about the found object.

Garrett Apex

Finally, Garrett has pleased us with a new product. The obsolete ICQ has been replaced by a new MD. The device is assembled on an old rod with an old fragile armrest and weighs 1.13 kg. Apex received 4 operating frequencies to choose from: 5, 10, 15 or 20 kHz, as well as MF modes - work at all frequencies simultaneously - and MS - the same for salt water. The device has a built-in Z-Lynk wireless communication module, a large display and a built-in battery, plus all the digital features:

• Target ID;
• 5-tone audio response, hybrid audio system with two-tone proportional audio;
• Iron Audio and Iron Volume;
• discrimination with Notch.

Garrett has finally released a new 6x11 inch DD Viper Searchcoil - there have been a lot of complaints about ace coils. Depth is the same as competitors for $500.

Advantages:

• multi-frequency;
• easy;
• inexpensive - ~40,000 rubles.

Flaws:

• old rod with many complaints.

Coil design

Two types of designs of this element are used:

• mono - two circles of winding, one of which is placed in the second;
• DD - two windings that are located next to each other.

Mono coils cope better with extraneous interference from unnecessary metals (discrimination). But if the search is carried out in soil with a large amount of minerals, then you should choose a metal detector with a DD coil.

In addition, other parameters cannot be ignored:

1. Number of manual settings . They help adjust the operation of the device to a specific area and the task at hand.
2. Tonality (number of levels). Indicates the proximity of the find.
3. Ability to map finds.
4. Connecting the metal detector to gadgets or a computer to exchange data and save search results.
5. Autonomy . Can I use rechargeable batteries? How long does the charge last?
6. Purpose . Do you need a device to search exclusively in the ground or are you planning to work in water?

These points also affect pricing, and if you manage to identify functions that are unnecessary for your purposes, you will be able to buy a device with the ideal balance of price and performance.

New items

Fisher F75 SE Black

pros

• lightweight device
• fast response
• high operating frequency
• works without problems under power lines

Minuses

• difficult to buy spare parts

From 49950 ₽

When considering new metal detectors, you should pay attention to the Fisher F75 SE BLACK model, which is a more powerful version of the long-known F75 device. The device is high-quality, lightweight, has a deep menu and great capabilities. A powerful processor allows you to respond faster to targets. It is convenient that the display shows the VDI number characterizing the metal.

How does a professional metal detector differ from an amateur one?

Amateur metal detectors differ from their “experienced” counterparts in a narrow range of settings and simple equipment. This is done so that a beginner in search matters can grasp the very principle of working with such a device, without overpaying for functions that they will not use.

Amateur devices have a small frequency range, a low level of filtering of extraneous noise, and they are not designed to operate in extreme conditions.

For example, in heavy rain, at low or high air temperatures, at great depths in fresh and salt water. And amateur metal detectors are not designed to search for precious metals, but they are good at distinguishing antiques.

Which metal detector is best to choose for finding coins?

Before choosing a metal detector, decide on your own goals.
The required parameters of the device depend on the objects that need to be detected and the terrain conditions. If you make a mistake in choosing the criteria, the work will be complicated by a large amount of garbage and false signals. For the first time, it is better to take a budget metal detector for searching for coins, with simple functionality and clear settings. Ideal options for beginners are detectors from Australia, Russia and the USA. When you understand how a metal detector works and limit the range of parameters important for scanning, invest in a more expensive and advanced device.