10 Best Stud Finder For Plaster Walls 2025 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 PREXISO 2-in-1 Stud Finder with Laser Level offers a handy combination of a stud finder and a laser level in one device, which can be very convenient for DIYers and anyone installing pictures or shelves. It detects wood and metal studs up to about 3/4 inch deep behind drywall and can also sense live AC wires up to 1-1/2 inch deep, which adds a safety feature by alerting you to electrical hazards. The detection is precise thanks to automatic edge marking with a laser line and sound and visual alerts, making it easier to mark stud edges accurately. Calibration is needed before use, which might require a bit of patience but helps improve accuracy.

The sensor uses manual operation and laser indicators rather than touch screens or digital displays, which keeps things simple but means you must carefully follow instructions and manual leveling steps. The laser level isn't self-leveling, so you need to adjust it yourself using the bubble vials; this requires some care to get straight lines, especially if you're not used to manual leveling tools. The device includes a 360° rotating wall mount and adhesive strips for different wall types, but note the adhesive strips don’t work well on dusty, rough, or wallpapered surfaces.

A significant downside is that this stud finder is not designed for plaster or lath walls, which limits its usefulness if you specifically need to work on those surfaces. It performs best on drywall and wood walls. The rechargeable battery is a plus, removing the hassle of replacing batteries frequently. This tool is well suited for general drywall and wood wall projects, offering practical features for home use but is less suitable if your walls are plaster or have unusual surfaces.

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.