10 Best Metal Detector Depth 2025 in the United States

The MINELAB MANTICORE is a high-powered metal detector designed for serious treasure hunters, offering advanced features that cater to various environments and user needs. One of its standout features is the MULTI-IQ+ technology, which boosts detection depth and performance, making it significantly more efficient than traditional detectors. With an operating frequency of 12 kHz, it is well-suited for finding a range of metal targets, including coins and gold nuggets.

Users will appreciate the advanced target ID system, which provides both visual and audio feedback to help distinguish valuable finds from junk. This capability is enhanced by the device's discrimination features, allowing for precise filtering of unwanted targets, making your search more productive.

The MINELAB MANTICORE is built for versatility with 10 different search modes, enabling use on various terrains like beaches and inland areas. Its waterproof design allows operation up to 16 feet deep, which is great for those who want to hunt in water. The customizable audio controls and backlit display enhance usability in different conditions, making it easier for users to detect targets in low-light environments. It may take some time for new users to fully master its features and settings.

The Minelab CTX 3030 is a high-quality metal detector designed for users who want reliable performance in various environments, including underwater detection thanks to its waterproof design. Its operating frequency of around 15 kHz provides a good middle ground, allowing it to detect a range of metal types while maintaining decent depth. The included 17" Smart Coil and 11" DD Smart Coil offer flexibility—larger coils help detect deeper targets, while smaller coils provide better sensitivity for smaller objects. Advanced ground balance capabilities reduce interference from mineralized soils, making it suitable for challenging terrains. The discrimination options allow differentiation between types of metals, which is useful for focusing on valuable finds and ignoring junk. Battery life and wireless headphones add to user convenience during longer hunts.

On the downside, the unit is somewhat heavier than more basic detectors, which might be tiring over extended use. Additionally, although it offers multiple search programs, beginners may find the range of settings a bit complex at first. Considering these factors, the Minelab CTX 3030 is well suited for serious hobbyists or professionals who want a versatile, feature-rich detector that performs well in diverse conditions, including underwater, but it may be more than casual users need.

The Garrett ACE 400 is a solid choice for hobbyists who want a reliable metal detector with useful features to help identify and find targets more accurately. It operates at a frequency of 10 kHz, which is a good balance for detecting a variety of metals at moderate depths—ideal for coin shooting or relic hunting in parks and fields. The adjustable frequency is a nice touch, letting you reduce interference from electrical sources or other detectors nearby, which can make hunting more pleasant and efficient. The inclusion of a 6-inch searchcoil and electronic pinpointing helps you locate targets precisely once detected. The digital Target ID ranging from 0 to 99 aids in distinguishing between different metals, so you’re less likely to dig up unwanted trash. The Iron Audio feature is also handy, allowing you to hear signals from iron objects separately, which can save time by avoiding low-value items like bottle caps.

The detector lacks advanced ground balance controls, which might limit performance in highly mineralized soils. The unit is relatively lightweight and adjustable up to 51 inches, making it comfortable for longer hunts. It comes with headphones and protective covers, adding good value. Battery life is about 5 hours, which is decent but could require spares for extended use.

The Garrett ACE 400 is well suited for beginners and intermediate users looking for a versatile, user-friendly detector with practical features, though those needing deep searching or specialized soil balancing might want to explore higher-end models.