Best Metal Detectors For All Budgets in 2023

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Metal detecting is a fantastic hobby, isn’t it? It allows us to explore fantastic beaches, hillsides, or historical sites and find wonderful pieces of history or coins!

Whether you are searching for jewelry, previously lost relics, or simply trying to pass some time in nature, we bet you have found yourself loving metal detecting and waiting impatiently for your chance to be at one with nature again!

But when it comes to your equipment, your metal detector, what happens when you feel less excited? Whether your metal detector is old, outdated, or faulty, there’s always a reason to buy a new one! But finding a new metal detector can be challenging. 

Whether it’s a replacement or your first metal detector, there are so many to choose from it can be an overwhelming decision to make. You stare at pages and pages, stressed and not knowing what is best for you. 

Well, no more! We are here today to end your search forever! Keep reading to find the best metal detector on the market and make your purchase today with ease.

We’ve also included a handy buyer’s guide to help you narrow your choice and an FAQ section to answer your burning questions. 

Stick with us to find your new metal detector now! 

Best Metal Detectors For All Budgets

What are the best metal detectors For beginners

So let’s talk about the metal detectors as voted for by real detectorists, and remember the most voted for doesn’t necessarily mean the best it means the most popular.

I will add my input at the end of what beginners metal detector I believe is best.

1. Garrett ACE 250

Garrett ACE 250 Features

The Garrett ACE 250 has more than enough features for the beginner detectorist.

Full range notch discrimination which allows you to notch out parts of the discrimination bars effectively ignoring types of metal like iron.

Pinpoint feature which allows the user to get a better understanding of where the target is located in the hole.

Switch on & go technology, keeping it simple you can pretty much power the machine on select a mode and start to detect.

8 Sensitivity levels which allow you to increase or decrease the sensitivity of the machine.

5 Preset detecting modes, All metal, Jewellery, Relics, Coins and custom mode. The custom mode allows you to set the detector however you want it notching out any of the discrimination bars and adjusting the sensitivity.

LCD screen which displays the Target ID graphic, Depth indicator, Battery level meter, the mode you have selected and the sensitivity level.

The Garrett ACE 250 comes with the PROformance Rhino 6.5” x 9” coil. (coils can be upgraded)

Headphone input socket, but also features an internal speaker for use without headphones.

  • Length – 42″ – 51″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.2kg
  • Frequency – 6.4 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 4 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 2 Years

Garrett ACE 250 Overview

The Garrett ACE 250 is the best selling metal detector, in the world, ever!

I’m not 100% sure what makes it the best selling and the most popular metal detector, perhaps it’s the simplicity for a beginner, it takes all of a few minutes to understand how to use and operate the Garrett Ace 250 and you’re set to go. The tones are very clear and easy to understand and after just a few outings you will be able to determine the difference between good and bad signal tones.

Garrett as a brand has a very good reputation, they produce reliable and good quality machines.

It got the most amount of votes as a beginner metal detector in the poll I ran on Facebook and has over 200 positive reviews left on Amazon. I’ve had a few goes with the machine and although not my favourite beginners metal detector I’m sure you won’t be disappointed if you start out with the Ace 250.

It is a good metal detector for a beginner, and won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for a beach metal detector the 250 is not the right model for you. It struggles on the wet sand with false signals.

2. Teknetics EuroTek Pro

Teknetics EuroTek Pro Features

The Teknetics EuroTek Pro is absolutely crammed with features, but don’t let that scare you it’s all very simple to use and you’ll have it mastered in no time.

Variable Breakpoint tech which is the industries first variable breakpoint tone discrimination system.

Variable Iron Discrimination, this is a digital feature that will allow you to change and adjust the discrimination 0 – 39

FEtone, which is adjustable iron audio this will allow you to change the volume of iron targets separately from non-ferrous targets. Effectively giving you a more in-depth audio response and indication.

Superior Iron Discrimination with incredibly fast recovery speed, the machine will excel in the separation of ferrous targets from non-ferrous even when the targets are next to each other.

Iron Identifier LED which lights up on the LCD screen when you detect iron, even when you have iron discriminated the LED lights up.

Pinpoint mode which allows the user to more accurately pinpoint where the target is located in the hole/ground.

Adjustable Volume control from 1 – 20.

3 Tone Audio Identification giving three clear separate tones to ID the target.

8 sensitivity levels allowing you to increase or decrease sensitivity.

  • Length – 95 cm – 128 cm adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.1kg
  • Frequency – 7.81 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 1 x 9v batteries
  • Warranty Length – 5 Years

Teknetics EuroTek Overview

As far as beginners metal detectors go, and regardless of what the Facebook poll said this is my number 1 recommendation for a beginner. For many reasons.

The Teknetics EuroTek pro has a crazy amount of features for the price.

Performance wise it’s a fantastic machine that easily outperforms most of the beginner range of metal detectors.

It’s lightweight, very simple to operate, has a great recovery speed and works fantastically in all ground conditions.

The one thing I would say is the standard stock coil is not the greatest, so look out for one that comes with a DD coil it makes the world of difference. This may cost you a little extra but if your budget stretches it really does make the Teknetics EuroTek perform so much better.

3. Garrett ACE 400i

Garrett ACE 400i Features

The Garrett ACE 400i has 4 preset search modes and custom mode. Zero discrimination (the new all metal mode) Jewellery, Relic & Coins. The custom mode allows you to notch out discrimination patterns and set the 400i up to your own settings, it then saves them for use later.

Pinpoint mode allowing the user to pinpoint the target in the hole giving a more accurate location.

New Iron Audio feature which allows the user to hear discriminated iron targets and can alter the mid-tone signal range.

Digital target ID, giving a numeric response when receiving a target signal. The ID numbers will give you a more clear indication of what kind of metal and target you have found.

Adjustable sensitivity settings up to 8 levels. This allows deeper searching in good grounds or in areas of high mineralisation if lowered will allow you to stabilise the detector.

Depth-enhanced Iron Resolution which Garrett claims gives three times the amount of iron resolution in comparison to the ACE 250.

Camlock support on the shaft.

Depth & battery indication on the LCD screen.

Adjustable frequency to help with the elimination of interference.

  • Length – 40″ to 53″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.3kg
  • Frequency – 10 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 4 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 2 Years

Garrett ACE 400i Overview

The Garrett ACE 400i is the top model in the new line of Garretts ACE machines the up to date answer to the Garrett Euroace.

A very popular choice for a beginners metal detector.

A reliable, robust and very straightforward machine that’s not going to take you an age to learn. In usual Garrett Ace fashion, they have kept everything simple.

Although simple the Garrett ACE 400i is a very capable machine, it offers advanced features implemented in a way a beginner can use them without being overwhelmed.

I would class it as a mid-range machine but one that has been designed and executed in such a way that a beginner with a slightly larger budget can enjoy.

The best thing about Garrett machines, in my opinion, is how popular they are, this means that there is a large network of users that you can go to for help for things like best settings. They also offer a massive range of upgraded coils.

Garrett is always going to be a brand you can trust.

I’ve not had much time on the ACE 400i just a little play around with it really but I did find it a good metal detector with more than enough features and power. I’m unsure of how good it is on the beach but I presume with it being the top model of the ACE range it is more stable than its predecessors.

I believe if you make the purchase you will be more than satisfied with the Garrett ACE 400i as your first machine.

4. Garrett ACE 300i

Garrett ACE 300i Features

The Garrett ACE 300i features a digital target ID number on the LCD screen of 0 – 99. This allows the user to receive more information about what they have found in the ground via a number.

It runs at a slightly higher frequency compared to the 250, 8kH, effectively providing better performance on low and medium conductivity targets like gold and lead.

Camlocks on the shaft to increase the stability and sturdiness.

Pinpointing mode which allows the user to accurately locate the target in the hole.

Notch discrimination patterns, which allow you to notch out or accept specific discrimination patterns.

Four preset search modes Zero discrimination (all metal) Jewellery, Relics & Coins.

Custom Search mode which allows the user to change the settings, sensitivity and discrimination patterns to their preference and then save for later use.

8 Sensitivity levels.

  • Length – 40″ – 53″  adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.27kg
  • Frequency – 8 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 4 x AA batteries (included)
  • Warranty Length – 2 Years

Garrett ACE 300i Overview

The Garrett ACE 300i is the up to date answer to the ACE’s previous model of the Garrett ACE 250

I can’t really say too much about the Garrett ACE 300i as I have just written previously above about the 400i.

So I will tell you the difference between the two. There are two main differences these are:

On the Garrett ACE 300i you get a smaller 7 x 10″ concentric coil, which effectively doesn’t perform as deep to its big brother the 400i.

There is no iron audio on the ACE 300i which can make it harder to determine the difference between good and bad targets. No impossible though it just takes more getting used to.

If your budget won’t allow you to stretch to the price of the Garrett Ace 400i then the ACE 300i is sufficient for a beginner. I would recommend looking for a used Garrett ACE 300i that already has a coil upgrade.

A good beginners metal detector with everything you need to find stuff! Not the best again for beach metal detecting if that’s what you have in mind.

5. Garrett Euroace

Garrett Euroace Features

4 preset search modes to allow you to switch on choose a mode and go. Zero (all metal) Jewellery mode, relic mode & Coins mode.

Custom search mode allows the user to notch out levels on the notch discrimination bars, change sensitivity etc and then save the mode for later use.

LCD screen with non-ferrous to ferrous display readings, depth indicator of up to 20cm, battery level, sensitivity level and discrimination notches.

You can fine-tune the iron discrimination which also separates the Euroace metal detector from it’s predecessors.

Pinpoint mode which allows you to locate the item in the hole with more accuracy.

The Garrett Euroace features a large 28 x 22 cm PROformance Double-D searchcoil.

Garrett easy-stow headphones are also included.

  • Length – 42″ to 51″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.27 kg
  • Frequency – 8.25 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 4 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 2 Years

Garrett Euroace Overview

The Garrett Euroace was my first ever machine as a beginner. I still have it now as a backup metal detector.

Very very straightforward and simple to use. You’ll have it worked out on your first outing, the only thing that will take a little bit of time is getting used to the tones, once you have got used to it you get a better understanding of the target from the tones alone and you’ll stop digging as much trash.

I’m slightly biased as I have owned and used the Garrett Euroace, it’s found me countless silver and bronze coins from all ages and the same in relics.

There are many coil upgrades for the Garrett Euroace like the Nel tornado that can add significant depth capabilities.

If you can’t afford the Garrett ACE 400i the latest ACE model release which was supposed to replace the Euroace then the Euroace is a great alternative.

It’s gained a lot of credibility over the years in the beginners metal detector range and is also sometimes considered a mid-range machine because of its power.

The only thing I can say negative about the Euroace is that the tones can get a bit tedious, the same as the 150 and 250. They give off a loud bell-like tone, on a good target sometimes referred to as the “double dinger” but if you haven’t used other detectors then this shouldn’t be a problem.

Good job it comes with headphones because the loud internal speaker can’t be turned down, there’s no volume control. The headphones, however, do have volume control.

It’s got many positive reviews on Amazon, over 100 5 star reviews. So you can take that as a very clear indication that this machine is loved by beginners.

If you can’t afford the new 300i or the 400i I would highly recommend this machine for a beginner. You’re sure to be pleased with your purchase. It’s not an all singing all dancing machine. It does what it says, it finds and there is no faffing about setting up. Switch on and go!

6. Minelab X-Terra 305

Minelab X-Terra 305 Features

The Minelab X-Terra 305 features a technology called VFLEX, this effectively changes the frequency of the metal detector by changing the coils. Allowing you to change the purpose and performance of the machine. For example, adding depth or searching for smaller targets.

Auto and manual ground balance adjustment, perfect for fine tuning to the mineralisation of the ground you are searching on.

2 Preset modes which can also be completely customised. It also has an all-metal mode.

Multiple tone ID choices plus multi-tone target ID response

Threshold adjustment from -5 to 25 this will allow the user to change the threshold settings for noticing very large deep targets or small and shallow.

Noise cancellation with three manual settings letting you pick the quietest channel with the least interference.

Pinpoint mode with a graphical indicator.

Graphic depth indication which even works in pinpoint mode.

9″ Concentric lightweight, waterproof 7.5kHz stock coil.

  • Length – 48″ – 56″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.3kg (without batteries)
  • Frequency – 7.5 & 18.75kHz (change by changing coils)
  • Battery Requirements – 4 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 3 years control box & coil

Minelab X-Terra 305 Overview

I have never had my hands on a Minelab X-Terra 305, I have owned the Minelab X-Terra 705 which is the big brother of the X-Terra range so I know a little.

I personally think for a beginner this metal detector is probably a little complex. If you have time and patience then it’s a very capable machine, if your budget allows though go for the 705.

Considering Minelab had the beginner in mind when they designed and created the metal detector I do believe they overcomplicated it.

So if its simple you’re looking for then this isn’t for you. I’m not by no means saying that its difficult to learn but I will say you will need time and patience.

The X-Terra range really does excel in iron discrimination so if you really want something that cuts back on the junk then they are a good choice of metal detectors, but as I said if you can invest the money in a used 705 it’s pretty much the same layout but far more powerful.

7. Fisher F44

Fisher F44 Features

The Fisher F44 is weatherproof which is a fantastic addition when you’re from the UK, as the weather is just so unpredictable. Don’t be mistaken for waterproof. However, when it rains there is no need to panic.

Manual ground balance allowing you to fine-tune the machine according to the ground conditions adding stability and increasing performance.

Ground Grab computerised ground balancing which auto tracks and adjusts the detector to the ground conditions as you are moving.

9 Segment numerical and visual Identification on the LCD screen.

Backlit LCD screen.

4 preset search modes, all-metal, jewellery, coins, artefacts and one custom mode. The custom mode automatically saves the last custom settings even when switched off.

As stock, the Fisher F44 comes with an 11″ concentric elliptical search coil.

Pinpoint mode allowing you to accurately locate the target in the hole.

FETone adjustable iron audio and iron identifier icon on the screen.

  • Length – 40″ – 52″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.04 kg
  • Frequency – 7.69 kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 2 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 5 Years

Fisher F44 Overview

Although this was voted as one of the best beginner metal detectors I do believe its more of a midrange detector and would perhaps be more suitable as an upgrade, that being said if you’ve got the budget and patience to learn its well worth the investment.

Fisher is just one of the companies ran by Fisher Labs and they have an excellent reputation in the metal detecting hobby world.

I haven’t personally used the Fisher F44 but I do know a few people personally who have and they all swear by theirs. It doesn’t take too long to understand the F44 but it is more difficult to learn than Garrett ACE models.

The Fisher F44 is weatherproof which is a godsend when you’re detecting in the UK, this doesn’t mean its waterproof though. Only the coil is fully submersible the rest is just weatherproof and will be fine in light rain.

If you took the leap and purchased the F44 you won’t feel the need to upgrade anytime soon, you would be very happy with it as a seasoned detectorist. It also has a huge 5-year warranty.

A very reliable, powerful metal detector that will please both beginners and seasoned detectorists.

8. CSCOPE CS4PI

CSCOPE CS4PI Features

The CS4PI is a pulse induction metal detector which is finely tuned for beaches and sites with difficult ground conditions.

It comes standard with a 9.8″ 25cm POLO search coil.

Weatherproof for hunting in all weather conditions. This does not mean the detector is waterproof.

Switch on and go technology allowing you to jump straight into metal detecting on the beach without messing around with settings to make the machine stable.

1K-4.2K PPS Frequency Control.

Belt mountable control box to help distribute the weight of the detector allowing you to detect for longer without excessive fatigue.

  • Length – 42″ adjustable height.
  • Weight – 1.45kg (with batteries)
  • Frequency – 6.1-6.4kHz
  • Battery Requirements – 8 x AA batteries
  • Warranty Length – 5 years parts cover, 2 years parts and labour.

CSCOPE CS4PI Overview

If you are looking to just metal detect at the beach then the CSCOPE CS4PI is the PERFECT beginners beach metal detector. 

Many of the beginners metal detectors that I have written about can be used on the beach but will struggle with the wet sand. The CS4PI has been specially designed and developed to excel on the beach even in wet sand.

The only negative thing I can say about this machine is it’s no good for land other than the beach. There is no discrimination feature. However, it won’t take you a few hours to get used to the difference in tone sounds so you will know what to dig and what not to dig.

If you’re a beginner and you only want to metal detect at the beach then there simply is no other machine I could recommend.

Everyone who I have spoken to about beach detecting has assured me this is the only machine you should consider. No false signals, and performs fantastically. It simply can’t be beaten.

Many reports of how deep it goes in wet sand as well, some say as deep as 18 inches in the wet sand. A true beach beast!

9. Dr Otek Lightweight Metal Detector

Up next is Dr Otek’s lightweight metal detector! At a reasonable price, the waterproof metal detector is perfect for those after a good quality detector! It’s lightweight, making it perfect for most users and packed full of handy features. 

The large LCD screen offers a bright display that is easy to use and navigate. With plenty of features, you can narrow the metal you look for, use pinpoint mode, search for jewellery, and more! What’s great is that you can use memory mode to remember one metal and search only for that, saving you time and allowing you to enjoy your detecting! 

You get a large 9.8-inch search coil, too, that’s waterproof! It’s great for those wanting to do some deep detecting, as it can detect items up to 10-inches underground! The waterproof coil can even be used in shallow water, too, meaning you never need to worry about where you are. 

Adjusting the sensitivity is another fantastic feature of the detector and allows you to customise it to your needs. Customers praised the adjustment features on the detector but did note that the detector can generate false signals. It was noted mainly when bumping into beach rocks, so take care as the accuracy can be a little off. 

Most customers were impressed and found the detector performed well. They found the lightweight detector was easy to handle and that adjusting the sensitivity and depth was excellent. 

If you are after a smooth running and easy to use metal detector, look no further! 

Pros

  • Reasonably priced – suitable for a range of budgets 
  • Lightweight – easy for all users to handle 
  • Adjustable depth and sensitivity – perfect for tailoring to your needs 
  • Large waterproof coil – perfect for exploring deep areas and shallow water 
  • Large LCD display – easy to view and navigate 

Con

  • False signals when bumping into rocks at the beach

10. Bounty Hunter Tracker IV Metal Detector

We have another fantastic and affordable metal detector here for you now! Bounty Hunter’s metal detector won’t break the bank and can still let you detect a range of metals with ease!

The detector can detect all kinds of metal and the handy discrimination feature helps you hone in on one if you need it! It allows you to tell the difference between the metals and whether they are worth digging up! 

Despite the low price, there’s plenty of features for you to play with too! Switch between discrimination, all-metal, and tone modes easily, simply flicking the toggle for mode! It’s an easy to use detector that beginners and experienced detectorists alike will enjoy! There aren’t as many features as more expensive models, but if you don’t need them, why pay for them?

You get a decently sized eight-inch coil, too, that is waterproof! It’s ideal for working in puddles or shallow water should your detecting lead you that way. It also offers you some protection should you get caught in the rain!

There is also a target strength meter display, so you stay in the loop and know what’s going on under the soil! Customers enjoyed this feature and found that considering the low price, it performed well! 

Bounty Hunter’s detector also features ground balancing technology that works with all soils. You can now use your detector where you wish! If you are after a bargain metal detector and aren’t too bothered about fancy features, give this one a whirl!

Pros

  • Affordable – suitable for most budgets
  • Waterproof coil – perfect for detecting in puddles and shallow water
  • Suitable for all soil – don’t need to worry; you can use the detector wherever
  • Range of modes – allows you to customise the metal detector easily 
  • Strength meter display – allows you to see what’s going on under the soil

Con

  • Not as many features as others on the market

11. DeeAWai Classic Metal Detector

Completing our list today is a fantastic and affordable option from DeeAWai! Their metal detector is ideal for beginners and is extremely easy to use. The lightweight metal detector is perfect for all the family to find and can be carried and traveled with easily. 

There is also an adjustable arm that makes it perfect for children to use! The included armrest provides support during extended use too. The reliable detector is certified by CE, ROHS, and FCC to provide you with peace of mind when you use it. 

The large coil is waterproof and perfect for use on a range of terrains and soils. It can differ between different metals, has three types of targets and plenty of modes for you to choose from! The adjustable settings allow you to create a metal detector that suits your needs perfectly. 

Adjusting the sensitivity level and narrowing your search by metal types was a massive plus for most customers. They enjoyed the features without needing to spend more as they usually would. 

While there are many fantastic features on this easy-to-use metal detector, customers noted that the depth wasn’t the best. Despite the large coil, it doesn’t pick up items buried deep, meaning you could be missing out!

If you aren’t bothered by the depth and looking for a bargain, grab this metal detector today! 

Pros

  • Affordable – suitable for a range of budgets
  • Large waterproof coil – perfect for any kind of detecting!
  • Easy-to-use – ideal for beginners and advanced users alike 
  • Adjustable settings – allows you to tailor the detector to your needs
  • Lightweight – easy to handle and travel with 

Con

  • Depth is not the best.
Metal Detector Buyer’s Guide

Metal Detector Buyer’s Guide

Not too sure what you need from your new metal detector? Use our handy buyer’s guide to find out what you should look for when searching!

Features and Modes 

When purchasing your metal detector, look at the features and modes it offers. The range of modes on a metal detector determines how many choices you get when metal detecting.

Some modes will look specifically for jewellery, whereas others are designed to target and find relics. Some metal detectors will also have custom modes to create yourself, allowing you to tailor your detector to you. 

When deciding which metal detector is best for you, check the modes and features it offers. Make a list of the types of metal detecting you like to do, and use this as a checklist to narrow your choice and find a metal detector that allows you to do this!

The features will also allow you to adjust the sensitivity, power and pinpoint your detector, offering you a fantastic level of flexibility.

Look out for metal detectors that are labelled as easy-to-use too! Their features and modes will usually be easier to navigate, making them perfect for older users or beginners!

Discrimination factor 

You might have seen the word discrimination used when discussing the metal detector and be wondering what it is! It’s nothing bad (like discrimination usually is); instead, it means how well the metal detector can tell one metal apart from another. 

We usually see discrimination features on pricier models, where you can narrow your search, and the detector can tell the difference between the metals it’s detecting. It gives you a better understanding of what’s lurking under the ground without needing to bend down or dig anything up that doesn’t interest you! 

It’s not an essential feature, but one worth looking out for if you are only after specific types of metals. You can also usually turn the feature off if you wish. Without the discrimination feature, you are left to wonder and be surprised at what your metal detector detects, just like traditional metal detecting! 

How heavy?

Another factor to consider is the weight of the metal detector. You will be carrying the metal detector to your detecting locations and holding it for extended periods of the day. You will need a metal detector that is light enough for you to carry comfortably! 

Look for metal detectors listed as lightweight and check the weight in the product specs before purchasing. Previously metal detectors have been on the heavier side, but we see more and more lightweight models enter the market, relief for our aching arms!

The material will determine the weight of your metal detector, so keep an eye out for lightweight materials used like aluminium to find a metal detector that is comfortable to handle. If you are a beginner, visiting some stores and trying out metal detectors yourself can be worth visiting. It allows you to get a feel for them in your hand and find the weight that best suits you. 

Is it waterproof?

A vital question that must be asked given how unpredictable British weather can be! You want your metal detector to be durable and able to last for years to come, and being waterproof will go a long way to ensure that it does. 

A waterproof metal detector will provide you with peace of mind should you get caught in the rain with it. Usually, waterproof metal detectors will survive some showers or a brief heavy downpour without their electrical components suffering. 

Some metal detectors will also be listed as water-resistant and will come with an indicator of the amount of water it can survive before it becomes damaged. While rainy weather usually means quieter beaches and peace to metal detectors, you must check that it won’t damage the metal detector. 

Some metal detectors, too, are designed to be submerged in water, allowing you to detect in pools or shallow areas of water. You will need to check this before purchasing, though, as you don’t want to submerge your metal detector in water and find out the hard way that it isn’t waterproof!

Waterproof metal detectors are a fairly new development, but we can expect to see more of them entering the market as their demand continues.

At the moment, it’s best to check if water is mentioned in the description and read your warranty to check if you are covered from water damage!

Battery Life 

An important factor you should consider is the battery life of your new metal detector! You will want a battery that will last long enough for you to enjoy your metal detecting and not worry about it dying mid-use!

Some features on metal detectors will use larger amounts of your battery, and you will need to consider this when making your purchase. 

Check the battery life of the metal detector before purchasing; it’s usually listed in the product description. It’s also worth reading reviews from customers, searching specifically for those mentioning battery life. It will give you an accurate representation of how the metal detector will perform and help you narrow your search. 

How much does a Metal Detector cost

How much does a Metal Detector cost?

When it comes to metal detectors, they can range from being affordable items to quite expensive, leaving many of us unsure how much to spend! It’s best to set a budget based on what you can afford and stick to it as best as possible when searching for your metal detector. 

Consider the features that you would like from your metal detector and use these to create your budget. You might need to compromise on some of the features, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a fantastic metal detector! You are sure to find one you love, no matter your budget!

Frequently Asked Questions

Get your last-minute queries answered here!

How deep do metal detectors go?

How far down metal detectors can detect metal varies from the detector to detector. It will depend on the frequency of the machine, the size of the search coil, and the type of the target.

Generally speaking, lower frequencies will penetrate deeper into the ground and pick up ferrous or highly conductive metals. High frequencies won’t go as deep but are better for finding joins, gold, and jewellery at shallower depths.

The target size, shape, orientation, and the material will all impact at what depth they can be detected too, and these depths are usually suggested on the metal detector. Depending on the target, they can vary so much that it’s hard to give one concrete and definitive answer.

The search coil also plays a role; the electromagnetic field the detector produces penetrates the ground at a depth that equals the diameter of the search coil. Larger coils will give a greater depth. But this does not mean that bigger is better. If you search for smaller targets like coins and jewellery, then larger coils might miss targets as the field is too strong.

Consider what type of detecting you wish to do and find a metal detector that searches coil and depth to match your needs!

What do metal detectors detect?

Metal detectors create an electromagnetic field that excites the target, causing it to create its magnetic field. It’s these magnetic fields that are detected by your metal detector and measures.

When this happens, your metal detector will make a noise indicating that you have found something. The tone of the noise will vary depending on what you have hit with your metal detector, giving you an indication of what you have found before you dig it up!

Can metal detectors detect diamonds?

Sadly, your metal detector cannot detect diamonds as they are not calibrated to do so. But, they do detect indicator minerals such as chromium garnets, green olivine, or magnetite. These minerals can lead you to the discovery of diamonds as they are usually nearby!

These are also indicators for gold, so it’s worth pursuing if you detect any of these. You never know what else could be lurking nearby!

Summary

OK, so there you have it, the best beginners metal detectors as voted for by real people and detectorists who know the machine and are happy with how it served them as a beginner.

I personally have nothing against Garrett Machines, I believe they are excellent value for money and they perform very well, I myself have owned Garrett metal detectors. They do have the monopoly because of the brand name, so people tend to opt for these machines because they hear them mentioned more than others.

Do I believe though that the Garrett ACE 250 is the best beginners metal detector?

Sadly I don’t, It may well have been once upon a time, however tech changes I would say that it is the most “popular” choice. Although it does have a great support network, it’s very simple to use and it does work! It’s just not the best for all-round detecting. It’s a little old school now.

Any of these beginners metal detectors will work for you. They will find, they will perform with stability and are all of very good quality.

I do hope though that this beginners metal detectors article has been of some use to you and perhaps helped you make the decision.

Would you like to recommend a metal detector for a beginner? Leave a comment below and we will consider it for the list.

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