10 Best Ace Metal Detectors 2026 in the United States

The MINELAB X-Terra PRO Metal Detector boasts some impressive features, making it suitable for both novice and experienced treasure hunters. One of the standout strengths is its PRO-SWITCH TECHNOLOGY, allowing users to switch frequencies to detect different types of metals more effectively. This is particularly useful for finding targets in varied ground conditions. The device is fully waterproof up to 16 feet, making it ideal for beach and underwater searches, significantly expanding your potential treasure hunting grounds.

Additionally, it offers three detection modes—Park, Field, and Beach—catering to different environments, which enhances its usability and versatility. The built-in flashlight and backlit keypad are practical features for low-light conditions, and the hand grip vibration aids in alerting users to detected items without having to constantly check the display. The audio control feature helps to distinguish between trash and treasure and even gauge the size and depth of targets, which is a valuable tool for serious metal detector enthusiasts.

This detector is lightweight and compact, weighing only 2.9 lbs, making it comfortable for extended use and easy to transport. However, the operating frequency of 7.69 KHz, while adequate, may not be as high as some specialized detectors designed for finding smaller, deeper targets. Additionally, while the product's lightweight design is generally a plus, some users might find it less durable compared to heavier, more robust models. The need for one lithium polymer battery, which is included, may also be a slight inconvenience for those who prefer devices with rechargeable battery packs. In conclusion, the MINELAB X-Terra PRO offers a strong balance of advanced features and user-friendly design, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to explore metal detection in a variety of environments.

The Fisher Gold Bug 2 is a strong choice for anyone serious about finding gold nuggets, thanks to its very high operating frequency of 71 kHz, which helps it detect small and deep gold pieces better than many other detectors. It comes with two waterproof elliptical coils—a smaller 6-inch coil for pinpoint accuracy in tight spots and a larger 10-inch coil for covering more ground and reaching deeper targets. This flexibility suits different terrains and searching styles.

It offers manual ground balance with a 16-turn control and a mineralization switch that adjusts for different soil types, which is useful in mineral-heavy or tricky environments like black sand beaches. The detector also includes iron discrimination to help ignore unwanted metal junk like nails, focusing instead on valuable non-ferrous metals such as gold. Its audio boost feature makes faint signals clearer without making loud targets noisy, improving your ability to identify real finds.

The device is lightweight at just under 3 pounds and designed for comfort during extended use with a hip-mount control box and cushioned grip. Its sturdy build includes a fiberglass stem and a weather-resistant housing rated IP44, meaning it can handle splashes and dust but shouldn’t be fully submerged. Battery life is solid, offering up to 35 hours with standard 9-volt batteries, which is convenient for longer sessions. While it excels in gold detection and durability, it is not fully waterproof for underwater use and requires manual adjustments that might take some practice for beginners. Its strong sensitivity, versatile coil options, and clear target signals make it a dependable pick for both hobbyists and pros focused on gold prospecting.

The Minelab Excalibur II 1000 Underwater Metal Detector is a robust option for those serious about metal detection, especially in underwater environments. With an operating frequency of 25.5 KHz, it is well-suited for detecting a wide range of metals. The 10-inch search coil is moderately sized, making it suitable for both broad and detailed searches. The unit comes with a deluxe carry bag, adding to its portability and convenience for users on the go. Additionally, the device is battery-powered, providing up to 12 hours of operation, which is ample for most detecting sessions. It also includes a battery, so you can get started right away, without needing to purchase one separately.

The detector allows for adjustments in length, making it comfortable to use for people of varying heights. It weighs 10 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users over extended periods. The Excalibur II's waterproof capability is a standout feature, making it ideal for underwater treasure hunting. Despite this, it holds a strong customer review rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, suggesting that those who purchase it are very satisfied with its performance.

The inclusion of only two detection programs might limit its versatility for some users. In summary, the Minelab Excalibur II 1000 is a high-quality metal detector, especially for underwater use, but its weight and limited programs could be potential drawbacks for some detectorists.