10 Best Metal Detector For Kid 2026 in the United States

The National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit is a solid choice for kids interested in treasure hunting. Weighing just 1.2 pounds, it's lightweight enough for children to carry around without tiring easily, making it perfect for long days of outdoor fun. The adjustable shaft allows for a comfortable fit, ensuring that kids of different heights can use it without issue. Its waterproof 7.4" dual coil is an excellent feature, enabling use at the beach or near shallow water. The detection depth of up to 4 inches is decent for young explorers, allowing them to uncover various hidden treasures.

One of its standout features is the ease of use. Kids can simply turn it on and start searching, with LED and audio alerts to indicate when they’ve found something. This simplicity encourages independence and excitement in the treasure-hunting process. Additionally, the included heavy-duty trowel and learning guide enrich the experience, teaching kids about metal detecting and making digging up finds easier.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The detection depth might be limited for more serious treasure hunters, as advanced models can reach deeper targets. Also, while the kit is designed for kids, its construction may not withstand rough handling over extended periods, so supervision might be needed during more adventurous outings.

The GoGonova Metal Detector is a solid choice for kids aged 8-12 and adults wanting to explore metal detecting together. It features an adjustable shaft ranging from about 39 to 51 inches, making it easy to customize for different heights, which is great for comfort during long hunts. At roughly 5 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side compared to some kids’ models but still manageable for most juniors. The detector includes two main modes: All Metal for detecting all types of metal and Discrimination mode, which helps filter out unwanted metals, making it easier for young users to focus on specific treasures. The 8-inch search coil offers a decent detection depth of around 8 inches underground, enough for typical backyard or beach exploration.

One highlight is the IP68-rated waterproof coil, allowing use underwater in shallow areas like streams or sandy beaches, though the control box itself isn’t waterproof, so caution is needed around water. The large, backlit LCD screen simplifies reading results, making it user-friendly for beginners. Included accessories like a carry bag, shovel, and earphones add value, but note the shovel is suited for soft soil and sand, not hard ground.

Durability seems reasonable with metal materials and waterproof coil, but the control box’s lack of waterproofing limits rough use in wet conditions. This detector balances ease of use, adjustability, and useful detection features well for kids starting out, especially families wanting shared outdoor fun, although younger kids might find the weight slightly challenging and users should be mindful around water with the electronics.

The Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector is a solid choice for both adults and kids seeking a fun and engaging way to explore the outdoors. One of its main strengths is its ease of use, making it suitable for beginners. The lightweight design, at just 2.75 pounds, means kids can handle it comfortably, which is great for family treasure hunts. The adjustable shaft allows users of varying heights to find a comfortable grip, enhancing the experience.

In terms of performance, the 6.5" x 9" elliptical search coil provides decent detection depth, helping users find coins and jewelry without much hassle. The digital target ID feature is a handy addition, allowing users to identify the type of metal they are detecting. This makes the learning process both informative and engaging for younger users.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the ACE 200 is durable for casual use, it may not withstand extreme conditions or rough handling, which could be a concern for younger, less careful users. Additionally, the operating frequency of 7 KHz might limit its effectiveness on very small or deeply buried items compared to higher-end models. The battery-powered operation requires 4 AA batteries, which adds to the ongoing maintenance costs. The warranty of three years is a positive point, providing peace of mind for potential buyers. The Garrett ACE 200 is a great entry-level metal detector ideal for family use and kids, but users should be aware of its limitations regarding durability and detection capabilities.