10 Best Underwater Metal Detector 2025 in the United States

The MINELAB MANTICORE Metal Detector Professional Bundle is designed for serious treasure hunters and includes everything you need for a successful hunt. The MANTICORE detector is highly powerful, boasting 50% more power than most models in its class, which allows it to find targets quickly and accurately even in tough conditions. It uses simultaneous multi-frequency technology, making it one of the most advanced detectors available. The 11-inch double D coil is a good size for covering a lot of ground while still being precise.

The waterproof feature is essential for underwater detection, and the IP rating suggests reliable protection against dust and water. The weight of 2.9 pounds and adjustable length make it user-friendly and ergonomic, allowing for extended use without discomfort. The included PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer is a standout addition, offering precise target location with minimal interference, which is especially useful underwater. The universal carry bag is practical for storage and transportation, ensuring that your gear stays in good condition.

A lithium-ion battery is included, offering a decent runtime, though you might need to monitor battery life closely during long sessions. One potential downside is the professional-grade features and price might be more than what a casual user needs. Additionally, its weight, while relatively light, could still become tiring for some users over prolonged uses. This bundle is ideal for dedicated hobbyists or professionals who need a reliable, high-performing metal detector capable of handling various environments, including underwater.

The Garrett Vortex VX9 is a versatile underwater metal detector suited for treasure hunters exploring lakes, streams, and ocean environments. With a depth rating of 16 feet, it allows users to search in various water conditions. One of its strong points is the high-resolution ground balance, accommodating both saltwater and mineralized soil, which is essential for diverse terrains. Weighing just 2.9 pounds, it’s lightweight and ergonomically designed, ensuring comfort during extended use. It also collapses to a compact size for easy transport.

The Vortex VX9 offers flexibility with its generous frequency options, featuring five single frequencies ranging from 5 to 25 kHz. This allows users to adapt to different soil types and targets. Its 8.5” x 11” searchcoil is a decent size for balanced coverage and precision. The intuitive controls, including adjustable settings for sensitivity and discrimination, make it user-friendly, even for beginners.

Battery life is another advantage, with up to 15 hours of operation on a full charge, making it suitable for long searches. The built-in lithium-ion battery eliminates the need for carrying spare batteries, and the USB-C charging port supports firmware updates, ensuring the device stays current with technological advancements. The Garrett Vortex VX9 is a solid choice for casual and serious hobbyists interested in underwater metal detecting, offering a blend of ease of use, portability, and functional features.

The MINELAB Equinox 800 is a versatile underwater metal detector that stands out with its simultaneous multi-frequency capability, allowing you to effectively search for different types of metals across varied terrains. This feature is particularly beneficial for divers and beachcombers who are looking for a reliable detector that can handle both saltwater and freshwater environments thanks to its waterproof design, submersible up to 10 feet. The 11-inch Double-D Smart Coil is a solid choice for covering a good amount of ground while still being sensitive enough for smaller finds. Its four detect modes (Park, Field, Beach, and Gold) provide tailored options for different environments and types of treasure hunting, enhancing the detector’s discrimination and sensitivity attributes. Moreover, the detector’s accurate target ID feature aids in distinguishing trash from treasure, which is crucial in mixed-terrain hunts.

On the downside, although it is lightweight at 2.96 pounds, which supports long search sessions, some users might find the need for frequent battery changes slightly inconvenient, even though it offers a decent 12-hour battery life. Additionally, the device might be complex for beginners due to its advanced features and multiple modes. Its price point might also be a consideration, as it could be seen as more suitable for serious hobbyists rather than casual users. The inclusion of wireless headphones is a nice touch, ensuring that users can comfortably focus on audio signals. If you're an enthusiast looking for a high-performing underwater metal detector, the Equinox 800 could be a compelling option given its robust feature set and durability.