10 Best Stud Finder For Plaster Walls 2026 in the United States

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.

The Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX Stud Finder stands out for its impressive accuracy, boasting 13 sensors compared to the usual 1 or 2 in traditional stud finders. This results in more precise detection, with a maximum depth of 2 1/2 inches, making it suitable for thick plaster walls. The device is user-friendly, requiring no calibration – simply place it on the wall and press a button to start scanning, reducing the chances of false readings.

It features two detection modes, allowing it to work on various wall types, including multi-layer drywall, lath, plaster, and large tile, making it versatile for different home setups. The wide LED display is another plus, showing both the center and edges of studs, which can be especially helpful for finding irregular configurations that other stud finders might miss. Additional conveniences include a built-in bubble level, a low battery indicator, and a pencil caddy.

However, it requires two AA batteries, which are not included, and its relatively heavier weight of 1.46 pounds might be a slight drawback for some users. This stud finder is well-suited for both professional use and DIY projects around the house.

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.