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 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 Bosch D-TECT120 is a solid choice for finding studs and other objects behind plaster walls. It stands out with its spot detection feature, which means you don't have to move it back and forth to get a reading—just place it on the wall, and it quickly tells you if something is there. It has three detection modes (drywall, universal, and concrete), making it versatile enough to detect wood studs, metal pipes, live wiring, and even plastic pipes, which is handy for plaster walls where materials can vary.

The tool uses a simple traffic light system with green, orange, and red indicators, so it's very easy to understand if something is detected nearby or right under the scanner. Another benefit is that it requires no calibration before use, saving you time and avoiding common errors. The device is lightweight and designed with soft grips, helping you hold it comfortably during use.

Detection depth is not extensively detailed, which could limit scanning on very thick plaster or lath walls. Additionally, while the multi-mode settings add flexibility, users might need a brief learning period to get comfortable switching modes. The scanner runs on four AA batteries, which are included for immediate use, though replacements will be needed eventually. If you want a user-friendly, no-fuss stud finder that works well on plaster and other surfaces, Bosch’s D-TECT120 is a good option, especially for those who value quick detection and clear visual indicators.