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10 Best Stud Finder For Plaster Walls 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 Stud Finder with 13-Sensors, Wood & Metal Stud Detector/Wall Scanner, Live Wire Detection (Green), Made in The USA

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,109
Detection Depth
Display and Indicators
Calibration

Most important from
4842 reviews

Detection Depth
The stud finder delivers precise stud edge detection, making it easier to mark and hang items accurately.
Display and Indicators
The gradient LED system clearly indicates stud locations, enhancing confidence in placement.
Calibration
Its intuitive design and quick scanning speed make it straightforward to use, even for those without prior experience.

The Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 is a reliable stud finder designed to work well on plaster and drywall walls. Its standout feature is the use of 13 sensors, which is more than typical models that usually have 1 or 2. This means it can detect studs more accurately and show both the center and edges of studs at once, which is handy if you need precise placement for hanging items. It can detect up to about 1.5 inches deep, enough for most interior walls. The device automatically adjusts for different wall types and textures, so you don’t have to fuss with calibration or multiple detection modes—just press the button and start scanning.

It also has a live wire detection feature, which adds safety by alerting you to electrical wires behind the wall. The display uses LEDs to clearly indicate stud locations, making it simple to understand even if you’re not experienced with such tools. This stud finder is durable and well-built, and it runs on two standard AA batteries (not included). On the downside, while the M210 is great for common walls with drywall or sheetrock, it might not be suited for very thick or unusually textured plaster walls that exceed its 1.5-inch detection depth.

The device doesn’t offer multiple modes since it’s designed to be straightforward, which is great for ease of use but might limit some specialized scanning options. If you want a stud finder that’s easy to use, accurate, and helps avoid electrical hazards during home projects, the ProSensor M210 is a strong choice.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,109
Detection Depth
Display and Indicators
Calibration

Most important from
4842 reviews

Detection Depth
The stud finder delivers precise stud edge detection, making it easier to mark and hang items accurately.
Display and Indicators
The gradient LED system clearly indicates stud locations, enhancing confidence in placement.
Calibration
Its intuitive design and quick scanning speed make it straightforward to use, even for those without prior experience.
#2

Walabot DIY 2 – Visual Stud Finder & Wall Scanner for Drywall. Detects Wood & Metal Studs, Plastic & Metal Pipes, Live & Non-Live Wires

Rating
7.9
Display and Indicators

Most important from
2595 reviews

Display and Indicators
Seeing live data on the phone screen provides confidence in pinpointing studs with precision, avoiding unnecessary holes or mistakes.

The Walabot DIY 2 is an advanced stud finder and wall scanner compatible with both Android and iOS smartphones. It employs cutting-edge technology to visually identify the center of wood/metal studs, track pipes, and detect wires, providing a more interactive experience compared to traditional stud finders that rely on sound cues.

One of its standout features is the ability to detect up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) deep within drywall, making it highly effective for most home improvement tasks on this type of wall. The connection to your smartphone via Walabot's internal Wi-Fi ensures that you do not need a residential or office Wi-Fi network for it to function. The device includes one Lithium-Ion battery, and its lightweight design (8.47 ounces) makes it easy to handle.

Despite its advanced features, it may not be suitable for those who need a stud finder for multiple wall types, particularly plaster walls. Therefore, it excels in drywall applications with visual feedback and deep detection capabilities, but its limited compatibility could be a drawback for more diverse home improvement needs.

Rating
7.9
Display and Indicators

Most important from
2595 reviews

Display and Indicators
Seeing live data on the phone screen provides confidence in pinpointing studs with precision, avoiding unnecessary holes or mistakes.
#3

Bosch GMS120-27 Wall Scanner

Rating
7.9
Detection Depth
Multi-Mode Detection
Display and Indicators

Most important from
4483 reviews

Detection Depth
While the Bosch unit scans to 1.5 inches, it lacks the dual-mode scanning feature of the Zircon HD900c, which offers both normal and deep scan modes.
Multi-Mode Detection
This Bosch stud finder is about as good as you can get, with useful water line and electrical detection features that seem accurate.
Display and Indicators
The colored LED surrounding the hole in the middle of the scanner is very bright, making it difficult to see the display and mark accurately.
Calibration
The tool is handy when it reads properly, making it perfect for centering a mark.

The BOSCH GMS120-27 Wall Scanner and Stud Finder is a versatile tool that effectively meets the needs of detecting studs, wood, metal, and live wires behind plaster walls. One of its strengths is the impressive detection depth and multi-mode detection capabilities, making it suitable for locating various materials inside walls.

The device is designed for ease of use, featuring a smooth gliding action across the wall and a user-friendly color-coded illuminated marking ring that facilitates quick and accurate detection. The audible detection signal, which can be toggled on or off, adds convenience for quick detection tasks when speed is essential. The large, bright LED screen provides clear and easily readable information about the detected objects, including their center, wall depth, and material type, ensuring users can make informed decisions during their projects.

The BOSCH GMS120-27 is also durable, with an IP54 rating and shock-absorbing rubber casing, making it reliable for use on tough job sites. Weighing 10.2 ounces and with dimensions of 7.32 x 3.4 x 1.3 inches, it might feel slightly bulky for some users. Despite this minor issue, the BOSCH GMS120-27 remains a high-quality and accurate professional-grade scanner that is beneficial for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable stud finder for plaster walls.

Rating
7.9
Detection Depth
Multi-Mode Detection
Display and Indicators

Most important from
4483 reviews

Detection Depth
While the Bosch unit scans to 1.5 inches, it lacks the dual-mode scanning feature of the Zircon HD900c, which offers both normal and deep scan modes.
Multi-Mode Detection
This Bosch stud finder is about as good as you can get, with useful water line and electrical detection features that seem accurate.
Display and Indicators
The colored LED surrounding the hole in the middle of the scanner is very bright, making it difficult to see the display and mark accurately.
Calibration
The tool is handy when it reads properly, making it perfect for centering a mark.

Buying Guide for the Best Stud Finder For Plaster Walls

Choosing the right stud finder for plaster walls can be a bit tricky, but with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect tool for your needs. Stud finders are essential for locating the wooden or metal studs behind your walls, which is crucial for securely hanging heavy items or performing renovations. Plaster walls, in particular, can be challenging because they often have a lath (a series of thin wooden strips) behind the plaster, which can interfere with the stud finder's readings. Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting a stud finder for plaster walls and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
Detection DepthDetection depth refers to how deep the stud finder can sense objects behind the wall surface. This is important because plaster walls are typically thicker than drywall and may have additional layers like lath. Detection depths can range from 0.5 inches to over 2 inches. For plaster walls, you should look for a stud finder with a detection depth of at least 1.5 inches to ensure it can accurately detect studs behind the plaster and lath. If you have particularly thick walls, opt for a model with a greater detection depth.
Sensor TypeStud finders come with different types of sensors, including magnetic and electronic. Magnetic stud finders detect the metal nails or screws in the studs, while electronic stud finders use sensors to detect changes in wall density. For plaster walls, electronic stud finders are generally more effective because they can better differentiate between the plaster, lath, and studs. Magnetic stud finders might struggle with the additional layers and may not provide accurate readings.
Multi-Mode DetectionMulti-mode detection refers to the stud finder's ability to detect various materials, such as wood, metal, and live electrical wires. This feature is important for plaster walls because it helps you avoid hitting electrical wires or metal lath, which can be present in older homes. Look for a stud finder that offers multiple detection modes and can switch between them easily. This versatility ensures you can safely and accurately locate studs without damaging other components within the wall.
Display and IndicatorsThe display and indicators on a stud finder provide visual and sometimes auditory cues about the location of studs. A clear, easy-to-read display is important for accurately interpreting the stud finder's readings. Some models offer LCD screens that show the exact location of the stud, while others use LED lights or audible beeps. For plaster walls, a stud finder with a detailed display can help you navigate the complexities of the wall structure more effectively. Choose a model with indicators that you find easy to understand and use.
CalibrationCalibration is the process of setting the stud finder to accurately detect the materials behind the wall. Proper calibration is crucial for plaster walls because of their uneven surfaces and varying densities. Some stud finders offer automatic calibration, which adjusts the settings for you, while others require manual calibration. Automatic calibration can be more convenient and user-friendly, especially for beginners. However, if you prefer more control over the settings, a manually calibrated model might be better suited to your needs.

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