10 Best Metal Detector For Kids 6 And Up 2026 in the United States

The GoGonova Kids Metal Detector is a solid choice for children around 8 years old and up, as well as beginners of any age. It’s lightweight enough for kids to handle comfortably, weighing about 5 pounds, and features an adjustable shaft that extends from about 39 to 51 inches, which means it can grow with your child for comfortable use. The detector offers two modes: 'All Metal' which detects any metal nearby, and 'Disc Mode' that helps filter out unwanted metals, making treasure hunting more focused and fun for young users.

With an 8-inch waterproof search coil, it can detect metal objects up to about 8 inches underground and is suitable for outdoor use, including beaches and shallow water (though the control box itself isn’t waterproof). The large LCD screen with backlight is designed to be easy to read, even in dim conditions, which is great for kids exploring in varied environments. Battery life is decent since it includes two 9V batteries, and extra features like anti-noise earphones and a small shovel add to the treasure-hunting experience. However, the shovel is only good for soft soil or sand, not for hard or rocky ground.

The detector’s plastic build and IP68 rating for the coil suggest reasonable durability for typical outdoor use, but care should be taken to avoid damaging the control box with water exposure. It scores well for accuracy and user-friendly design, though indoor use is not recommended due to interference, and very young kids under 6 might find the size and setup a bit challenging. This makes it a practical and fun tool for kids getting started with metal detecting, offering good value and features that encourage outdoor adventure and learning.

The National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for Kids is a lightweight (1.2 pounds) and user-friendly device, making it ideal for young treasure hunters. Its adjustable shaft ensures a comfortable fit for different arm lengths, and the grip design allows children to use it for extended periods without discomfort.

The 7.4-inch waterproof coil permits exploration in shallow water, potentially adding to the fun of beach days. Its detection depth of up to 4 inches is suitable for casual treasure hunting. The simplicity of operation, with LED and audio alerts, makes it accessible even for young kids, encouraging independence and excitement in their treasure hunts.

Additionally, the included trowel and learning guide add educational value, teaching kids about metal detecting history and techniques. The company's commitment to high-quality educational toys and excellent customer service offers some reassurance. This metal detector kit is best suited for young beginners curious about treasure hunting, especially those who enjoy spending time outdoors at the beach or in the yard.

The Bounty Hunter Tracker IV metal detector is a solid choice for kids aged 6 and up who are just starting out in treasure hunting. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it is light enough for young users to handle comfortably without getting tired quickly. The adjustable shaft extends up to 51 inches, allowing the detector to grow with your child as they get taller, which is a nice plus for long-term use. Its 8-inch waterproof searchcoil means it can work on different terrains, including shallow water like beach shores, which adds versatility to where kids can explore.

The detector offers three detection modes—All-Metal, Tone, and Full Discrimination—helping beginners by filtering out junk metals like iron and foil, so they can focus on finding the good stuff. The included pinpointer is a handy tool for zeroing in on targets, saving time and effort digging. Battery life is decent since it uses rechargeable batteries, so you won't frequently buy disposables, though the detector still requires two 9V batteries, which might be a bit much for younger kids to manage alone. The design includes a padded armrest and ergonomic handle, which improves comfort during longer hunts and helps reduce fatigue.

Durability-wise, it comes with a tough plastic trowel and a carry bag, making it practical and travel-friendly. While it’s beginner-friendly, some kids might find the LCD screen and multiple modes slightly complex at first. Also, the detection depth, while good for casual treasure hunting, won’t match professional-grade detectors. This metal detector balances ease of use, adjustable sizing, and decent detection features, making it well-suited for young treasure seekers and families looking to explore together.