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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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,498
Detection Depth
Multi-Mode Detection
Display and Indicators

Most important from
3659 reviews

Detection Depth
Worked on thick fire-resistant garage sheetrock and even scanned floor joists through 3/4" oak flooring over plywood subfloor.
Multi-Mode Detection
This unit worked well and identified every live wire in the areas of construction underway at my home as well as proved to be a great stud-finder as well.
Display and Indicators
Simple to operate and LEDs are bright. Shows edges and slower scanning reveals stud center with green indicator.
Calibration
Not only does it find the studs perfectly and let you know exactly where they're located and how thick they are, but it does so quickly and intuitively.

The Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 stud finder is a solid choice for anyone looking to work with plaster walls, especially DIY enthusiasts and professionals. One of its standout features is its use of 13 sensors, which enhances accuracy in detecting both wood and metal studs. This means users can rely on the M210 to find studs with confidence, reducing the chances of drilling into the wrong spot.

Another useful feature is the live wire detection, which prioritizes safety during projects. The device’s wide LED display shows the center and edges of studs simultaneously, making it easier to pinpoint exactly where to drill. The automatic adjustment for different depths, materials, and textures up to 1.7 inches adds versatility, accommodating various wall types and conditions.

There are a few aspects to consider. While the M210 is designed to be durable, its reliance on batteries (two AAA batteries required) might be seen as a drawback for those who prefer rechargeable options. Additionally, while the display is helpful, some users may find it requires getting used to, especially if they have previously used more traditional stud finders. In terms of portability and ease of use, the device is lightweight and fits comfortably in hand, making it ideal for construction or renovation tasks.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,498
Detection Depth
Multi-Mode Detection
Display and Indicators

Most important from
3659 reviews

Detection Depth
Worked on thick fire-resistant garage sheetrock and even scanned floor joists through 3/4" oak flooring over plywood subfloor.
Multi-Mode Detection
This unit worked well and identified every live wire in the areas of construction underway at my home as well as proved to be a great stud-finder as well.
Display and Indicators
Simple to operate and LEDs are bright. Shows edges and slower scanning reveals stud center with green indicator.
Calibration
Not only does it find the studs perfectly and let you know exactly where they're located and how thick they are, but it does so quickly and intuitively.
#2

Franklin Sensors ProSensor M150/X990 Stud Finder with Live Wire Detection and 9-Sensors, Wood & Metal Stud Detector/Wall Scanner, Made in The USA

Rating
10.0
Multi-Mode Detection

Most important from
2701 reviews

Multi-Mode Detection
Well-designed with excellent accuracy and the added bonus of electrical line detection.

The Franklin Sensors ProSensor M150 stud finder stands out in the category of tools for detecting studs in plaster walls, thanks to its unique features and user-friendly design. With nine sensors, it offers a high level of accuracy, allowing you to detect studs up to 1.5 inches deep. This is notably better than conventional models that typically use one or two sensors. The LED display is an excellent addition, showing both the center and edges of studs, which helps you clearly identify their locations and configurations. It also effectively scans through drywall and other materials, making it versatile for various home improvement tasks.

The M150 is praised for its ease of use; there's no need for calibration, and you can start scanning anywhere, even over existing studs. This can prevent false readings and enhances the user experience. Additionally, the inclusion of live wire detection adds an important safety feature that distinguishes it from many competitors.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. While its durability is a strong point, the ProSensor M150 requires AAA batteries and does not support rechargeable options, which may be less convenient for some users. The product is also slightly bulkier, weighing around 5.1 ounces and measuring 5.51 inches long, which could make it less comfortable to hold for extended periods.

The ProSensor M150 is an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals looking for a reliable and accurate stud finder specifically for plaster walls. Its combination of advanced sensing technology and user-friendly features make it a top contender in its category, although potential users should be aware of its battery requirements and size.

Rating
10.0
Multi-Mode Detection

Most important from
2701 reviews

Multi-Mode Detection
Well-designed with excellent accuracy and the added bonus of electrical line detection.
#3

Stud Finder Wall Scanner 5-in-1 - Detector for Wood, Metal, Joists, Pipes, and AC Wires, Upgraded New version Intelligent Chip, High-Definition LCD Display Screen & Audible Alarm

Rating
9.9
Sensor Type
Display and Indicators

Most important from
446 reviews

Sensor Type
Offering comprehensive detection for wood, metal, pipes, joists, and AC wires, the new intelligent chip provides fast response and high accuracy.
Display and Indicators
The user interface is very straightforward, and the clear display and audio indicators make it easy to use.

The Stud Finder Wall Scanner by Meapro is a versatile tool designed to accurately detect wood, metal, joists, pipes, and live AC wires within walls, floors, and ceilings. Its standout feature is the state-of-the-art micro-sensor chip, which ensures high sensitivity and rapid detection, making it ideal for professionals, homeowners, and DIY enthusiasts.

The scanner offers multiple scanning modes, including Stud Scan, AC Scan, and Metal Scan, catering to different materials and depths, enhancing versatility and precision in various tasks. The bright, backlit LCD screen provides clear visibility of detected objects, even in dimly lit areas, and combined with the audio alerts, it ensures an easy user experience. The auto-calibration feature simplifies setup and maximizes reliability, while the live wire detection feature enhances safety by preventing accidental drilling into live wires.

The ergonomic design with a non-slip grip and durable plastic frame adds to the convenience and ease of use. However, it requires alkaline batteries, which are not included, and might be a slight inconvenience for some users. The product is backed by a warranty and responsive customer service, providing added peace of mind. This stud finder offers a balance of precision, ease of use, and safety, making it a practical tool for various home improvement projects.

Rating
9.9
Sensor Type
Display and Indicators

Most important from
446 reviews

Sensor Type
Offering comprehensive detection for wood, metal, pipes, joists, and AC wires, the new intelligent chip provides fast response and high accuracy.
Display and Indicators
The user interface is very straightforward, and the clear display and audio indicators make it easy to use.

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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