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10 Best Metal Dectectors 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nokta Makro Invenio Standard Pack Smart Metal Detector and 3D Imaging System

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Depth Indicator
Weight and Ergonomics
Waterproofing

Most important from
1 reviews

Depth Indicator
Its advanced AI technology offers precise shape extractions and depth indications, making it a standout choice for serious treasure hunters.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite its high weight of 40 pounds, the adjustable length and inclusion of two Lithium Polymer batteries provide practical usage.
Waterproofing
The device's waterproof rating of IP67 ensures reliable performance in diverse environments.

The Nokta Makro Invenio Standard Pack Smart Metal Detector and 3D Imaging System stands out for its advanced features, especially its use of Artificial Intelligence. This helps in providing accurate shape extractions and depth indications through adaptive learning algorithms, making it suitable for detecting various targets like deep treasures, coins, and underground anomalies. With its high-performance capabilities, it can uncover treasures that other detectors may miss.

It also offers multiple search modes (both motion and non-motion), adding to its versatility. The device supports 17 different languages, which is a notable plus for international users. However, weighing 40 pounds, it is quite heavy, which might make it less ergonomic for prolonged use. While it includes two Lithium Polymer batteries and is adjustable in length, its high weight could be a downside for those looking for a lightweight and easily portable option.

Additionally, its waterproof rating of IP67 means it can handle being submerged in water, making it practical for diverse environments. This metal detector is best suited for serious treasure hunters and professionals who need advanced detection capabilities and can manage the weight of the device.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,478
Depth Indicator
Weight and Ergonomics
Waterproofing

Most important from
1 reviews

Depth Indicator
Its advanced AI technology offers precise shape extractions and depth indications, making it a standout choice for serious treasure hunters.
Weight and Ergonomics
Despite its high weight of 40 pounds, the adjustable length and inclusion of two Lithium Polymer batteries provide practical usage.
Waterproofing
The device's waterproof rating of IP67 ensures reliable performance in diverse environments.
#2

MINELAB MANTICORE High-Power Multi-IQ+ Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with Advanced Target ID (11" Double-D Coil Included)

Rating
9.7
Operating Frequency
Discrimination
Depth Indicator

Most important from
141 reviews

Operating Frequency
This detector excels at finding deep targets that other machines have missed, even in heavily hunted areas.
Discrimination
Its ability to distinguish valuable finds from trash is impressive, reducing wasted time on unwanted targets.
Depth Indicator
The target trace feature gives a helpful visual hint of what lies beneath, enhancing confidence before digging.
Weight and Ergonomics
Ergonomically, it balances power with comfort, making long detecting sessions more enjoyable despite its professional-grade weight.

The Minelab Manticore is a high-powered metal detector designed for adults who want advanced features combined with ease of use. Its 12 kHz operating frequency and the innovative Multi-IQ+ technology provide strong detection capabilities, allowing you to find a wide range of metals with better accuracy. The advanced target identification system helps differentiate valuable finds from trash, making it useful for both beginners and experienced users looking to save time.

It offers excellent discrimination and multiple search modes, including special settings for challenging environments like beaches and goldfields. The 11" double-D coil provides good coverage and depth, helping you detect deeper targets. Weighing about 7 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and folds down compactly, making it comfortable to carry during long hunts. The detector is also waterproof up to 16 feet (IP68 rating), so it can handle wet conditions and underwater searching.

One downside is that it only has three main programs, which might limit customization for some users. While 7 pounds is light for professional gear, it can feel a bit heavy for casual users. The LCD display with backlighting and the vibration grip improve usability, especially in low light. The Minelab Manticore delivers powerful performance, solid ergonomics, and versatility for all-terrain use, making it a strong choice for serious treasure hunters who want reliable detection in various environments.

Rating
9.7
Operating Frequency
Discrimination
Depth Indicator

Most important from
141 reviews

Operating Frequency
This detector excels at finding deep targets that other machines have missed, even in heavily hunted areas.
Discrimination
Its ability to distinguish valuable finds from trash is impressive, reducing wasted time on unwanted targets.
Depth Indicator
The target trace feature gives a helpful visual hint of what lies beneath, enhancing confidence before digging.
Weight and Ergonomics
Ergonomically, it balances power with comfort, making long detecting sessions more enjoyable despite its professional-grade weight.
#3

Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector for Adults - Made in The USA - Waterproof Coil and Headphone Plus Accessories

Rating
8.5
Discrimination
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
4382 reviews

Discrimination
The detector performs well in trashy areas, distinguishing valuable targets from junk effectively.
Weight and Ergonomics
It’s lightweight and comfortable, allowing for hours of detecting without fatigue.

The Garrett ACE 300 is a solid choice for adults looking to get started or enjoy casual metal detecting. It offers a numeric target ID from 0 to 99, which helps users understand what kind of metal they might have found, making it easier to focus on valuable items. It also has improved iron resolution, so it separates junk metal from treasures better than some basic models. The adjustable frequency feature is useful if you’re detecting in areas with electronic interference or crowded with other metal detectors, giving you a smoother experience. The included waterproof coil and IP54-rated protection mean the detector can handle light rain and dusty conditions but shouldn’t be fully submerged.

It weighs about 5 pounds and extends up to 51 inches, which is comfortable for most users during long hunts. The depth indicator and electronic pinpoint mode make it easier to locate exactly where your target is, saving time and effort. On the downside, the ACE 300 uses 4 AAA batteries, which you’ll need to replace or recharge regularly, and while it’s great for general treasure hunting, serious or professional users might find its features somewhat basic. The included accessories like headphones and protective covers add good value, making it ready to use out of the box.

This detector is well-suited for beginners and hobbyists wanting a reliable, user-friendly device that offers enough features to make metal detecting enjoyable and productive.

Rating
8.5
Discrimination
Weight and Ergonomics

Most important from
4382 reviews

Discrimination
The detector performs well in trashy areas, distinguishing valuable targets from junk effectively.
Weight and Ergonomics
It’s lightweight and comfortable, allowing for hours of detecting without fatigue.

Buying Guide for the Best Metal Dectectors

Choosing the right metal detector can be a rewarding experience, whether you're a hobbyist looking for coins and relics, or a professional searching for valuable metals. The key to finding the best metal detector for your needs is understanding the various specifications and how they impact performance. By considering your specific needs and the environments in which you'll be using the detector, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your metal detecting adventures.
Operating FrequencyThe operating frequency of a metal detector refers to the number of electronic waves it sends into the ground per second. This spec is important because it affects the detector's sensitivity and depth capabilities. Lower frequencies (1-4 kHz) are better for detecting larger, deeper objects like relics and coins, while higher frequencies (15-100 kHz) are more sensitive to smaller objects like gold nuggets. If you're searching for a variety of items, a mid-range frequency (5-15 kHz) offers a good balance. Choose a frequency based on the type of targets you are most interested in finding.
DiscriminationDiscrimination is the metal detector's ability to distinguish between different types of metals. This feature is crucial for avoiding unwanted items like nails and pull-tabs. Basic discrimination allows you to filter out certain metals, while more advanced models offer adjustable discrimination settings to fine-tune your search. If you are searching in areas with a lot of trash, a detector with good discrimination will save you time and frustration. Consider your typical search environment and the types of metals you want to find when evaluating this feature.
Ground BalanceGround balance is a feature that helps the metal detector ignore the natural minerals in the soil, which can cause false signals. This is particularly important in areas with highly mineralized soil, such as beaches or gold prospecting sites. There are three types of ground balance: preset, manual, and automatic. Preset ground balance is simple and suitable for beginners, while manual ground balance allows for more precise adjustments. Automatic ground balance is convenient and adjusts on the fly. Choose a ground balance type based on your experience level and the mineralization of the areas you plan to search.
Search Coil Size and TypeThe search coil is the part of the metal detector that senses metal objects in the ground. Coil size and type affect the detector's depth and sensitivity. Larger coils (10 inches or more) cover more ground and detect deeper objects, but they can be less sensitive to small items. Smaller coils (6-9 inches) are more sensitive to small objects and better for detecting in trashy areas. There are also different coil types, such as concentric and double-D coils, each with its own advantages. Consider the size and type of targets you are searching for and the terrain you will be detecting in when choosing a coil.
Depth IndicatorA depth indicator shows how deep a detected object is buried. This feature is important because it helps you determine whether to dig for an object and how much effort will be required. Depth indicators can be simple, showing approximate depth, or more advanced, providing more precise measurements. If you are searching for deeply buried items, a detector with a reliable depth indicator can be very helpful. Consider how important depth information is to your searches when evaluating this feature.
Weight and ErgonomicsThe weight and ergonomics of a metal detector affect how comfortable it is to use for extended periods. Lighter detectors are easier to carry and maneuver, which is important if you plan to search for long hours. Ergonomic designs with adjustable shafts and comfortable grips can reduce fatigue and strain. If you have physical limitations or plan to detect for long periods, prioritize a lightweight and ergonomic model. Consider your physical condition and how long you plan to use the detector in one session when choosing a model.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is a feature that allows you to use the metal detector in wet conditions, such as on beaches, in shallow water, or during rain. Some detectors are fully waterproof, while others have waterproof coils but non-waterproof control boxes. If you plan to search in or near water, a waterproof detector is essential. Consider the environments you will be detecting in and whether you need a fully waterproof model or just a waterproof coil.

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