The Ultimate 2024 Guide to Choosing the Right Metal Detector for Beginners - Top 10 Metal Detectors
Published by Audrey Floyd on 08/08/24
Are you ready to embark on your metal detecting adventure? At Kellyco, we’ve spent over six decades helping people just like you find hidden treasures and unlock the thrill of discovery. I’m Audrey, a recent addition to the Kellyco family, but in my time here, I’ve soaked up years of knowledge, tested a wide array of detectors, and learned the ropes from the best in the business. Let me share what I’ve learned, so you can skip the rookie mistakes and start your treasure hunt on the right foot!
Disclaimer: Everyone’s techniques vary, and practice truly makes perfect. You don’t have to replicate someone else’s methods exactly—that’s what makes detecting unique and fascinating. Even in areas thoroughly searched, people still uncover hidden treasures. Your unique approach can make a world of difference. Remember, detecting is both a science and an art—get out there and have fun!
Getting Started:
What Is Your Target?
Do you want to uncover relics, find lost jewelry at the beach, or hunt for coins? Or, like me, do you want to do all of the above?
There are different types of detectors, each designed for specific tasks. I recommend starting with an all-purpose machine, especially for beginners. This will let you experience searching for various targets and help you decide if you have a preference. Many detectors allow you to customize settings and fine-tune them later on.
Where Will You Be Hunting?
Will you be in rough terrain, deep waters, or grassy fields? Consider the durability and waterproof capabilities of your detector. For instance, if you don’t plan on scuba diving for treasure, investing in a machine that's waterproof up to 60m might not be necessary. On the flip side, if you see yourself beach hunting, you'll want a detector that can handle getting wet beyond just the coil.
What Is Your Budget and Technology Preference?
Price and technology level are important. You can find great technology at various price points. Think of it like buying a car: Do you want the nicest model within your budget that may take time to learn, or a simpler one you can upgrade later?
Your answers to these questions won't give you a definitive answer but will guide you in the right direction. With so many types of detectors available, we're confident we can help you find the perfect one. If you're not 100% sure about your choice, our customer service team is always ready to assist.
Features to Look for in Your Detector
Here's a breakdown of the most common features you'll see listed and why you might want them.
Weight:
It's important for user comfort, especially during long detecting sessions. A lighter detector is easier to handle and carry, reducing fatigue and strain on your arm and shoulder muscles. This allows you to enjoy your treasure hunting adventures for longer periods without discomfort.
Warranty:
A warranty provides assurance that the manufacturer will repair or replace the detector if it malfunctions due to defects in materials or workmanship within a specified period. Most detectors come with a warranty period of around three years, giving you peace of mind during your treasure hunting adventures.
Technology:
Metal detectors use various technologies such as Very Low Frequency (VLF) Single Frequency and VLF Multiple Frequency and Pulse Induction (PI). Each technology has its own strengths and weaknesses, which can affect depth penetration, sensitivity to different metals, and performance in various soil conditions. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right detector for your specific treasure hunting needs.
Type/Best For:
Choose a detector based on what you want to find: coin shooting, relic hunting, gold prospecting, underwater detecting, and so on. Selecting the right type ensures optimal performance and maximizes your chances of finding valuable targets. Tailoring your detector to your specific interests can significantly enhance your treasure hunting success.
Frequencies:
Detectors can use single or multiple frequencies. Frequency affects sensitivity to different metals and soil conditions. Higher frequencies are more sensitive to small or low-conductivity targets, while lower frequencies offer better depth penetration in highly mineralized soil. Understanding how frequency impacts your detector's performance can help you choose the best settings for your treasure hunting adventures.
Search Modes:
Pre-set configurations optimize the detector's settings for specific types of detecting, such as coins, relics, jewelry, or custom modes. Having multiple modes makes the detector versatile and adaptable to different environments and target types, enhancing your chances of success no matter where you search.
Manufacturers put a lot of effort and resources into developing their detectors. Trust the default settings when you’re starting out. It’s tempting to try someone else’s "magic settings," but what works for them might not work for you in your area. Spend time detecting, enjoy the process, and make small adjustments as you get to know your machine better.
Depth Indication:
The depth indicator provides an estimate of how deep a detected target is buried. This helps determine if a target is worth digging and improves efficiency by focusing on deeper or more valuable targets. By getting familiar with your machine's settings, you can make informed decisions about which signals to pursue, ensuring you spend your time and energy on the most promising finds.
Battery Life:
Battery life indicates how long the detector can operate on a single set of batteries. Longer battery life allows for extended detecting sessions without needing to replace or recharge batteries, enhancing convenience and reducing downtime. This means you can spend more time searching for treasures and less time worrying about power.
Battery Type:
Detectors use either disposable (alkaline or lithium) or rechargeable batteries (NiMH or lithium-ion). The battery type affects operating costs, convenience, and environmental impact. Choose based on your preferences and usage patterns to ensure you have the best balance of cost-efficiency, convenience, and eco-friendliness for your treasure hunting needs.
The newer generation of detectors tend to have built-in rechargeable lithium batteries, which greatly reduces the cost of detecting since alkaline batteries can be pricey. However, many detectors still use familiar batteries like AA or 9-volt. With modern rechargeable options for these batteries, even traditionally powered machines can be used without the ongoing cost of alkaline batteries.
For deep diving detectors, Nickel–metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are often used. These recharge via a wall socket and typically last all day. Built-in lithium batteries can last many years but will eventually need replacement. Traditional battery systems may not be as convenient as charging a cell phone, but rechargeable batteries of every size are available on the market, making these systems still great for detecting.
Choose a machine based on your preferences and usage patterns to get the most out of your treasure hunting adventures.
Audio:
Audio feedback, such as tones or beep patterns, alerts you to the presence of metal targets. The quality and clarity of audio feedback help identify and differentiate between different targets, enhancing the overall experience. It's highly recommended to watch videos of a detector in action before purchasing to ensure the sounds are suitable for you. This way, you can be confident in your ability to interpret the signals during your treasure hunts.
Ground Balance:
Ground balancing compensates for soil mineralization, which can cause false signals and reduce detection depth. Manual or automatic ground balancing maintains optimal performance in various soil conditions, ensuring accurate target identification and minimizing false alarms. This feature is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of your detector in different environments.
Sensitivity:
Sensitivity controls how deeply the detector can detect metal objects. Adjustable sensitivity settings let you fine-tune performance for optimal depth penetration and target detection while minimizing interference from ground minerals or electromagnetic noise. This allows you to customize the detector's responsiveness to suit different environments and conditions, ensuring a more efficient and productive search.
Waterproof:
Waterproof detectors can withstand submersion in water, making them suitable for underwater detecting in lakes, rivers, streams, or coastal areas. They are also ideal for detecting in rainy or wet conditions without risking damage. This versatility ensures you can treasure hunt in various environments and weather conditions without worrying about your equipment.
Included Accessories:
Accessories like headphones, carrying cases, digging tools, and coil covers may be included or available as optional add-ons. These enhance the user experience, improve comfort and convenience, and can be essential for specific types of detecting, such as underwater detecting or relic hunting. Having the right accessories can make your treasure hunting adventures more enjoyable and efficient.
So, What Kind of Technology Is Right for You?
I recommend Multi-Frequency (MF). While some detectorists may prefer PI or VLF Single Frequency for specific types of detection, MF devices save time and effort by detecting multiple targets simultaneously. Think of it like this: using a VLF detector, you set it for a specific target, cover the field, find some targets, change settings, and repeat. With a Simultaneous Multi-Frequency detector, you only need to cover the field once. It's efficient and keeps up with evolving technology.
Guide to Getting Set Up
Before diving into specific detectors, let's talk about accessories. Opinions vary, and personal preference is key, but here are the accessories we recommend for getting started. You'll see similar bundles on our site, listed as “Basic,” “Pro,” or “Ultimate” Bundles.
Recommended Accessories:
Carry Bag
Pinpointer
Hand Digger
Sheath
Trowel
Nylon Belt
Sifter Pouch
Gloves
Cooling Towel
Golf Towel
Brass Finds Brush
Remember, much of detecting is about personal preference—like how Picasso and Monet had very different techniques but both created amazing art. Find what works for you and embrace trial and error. For example, I can't hunt without a pinpointer, but some detectorists never use one.
Top 10 Metal Detectors for Beginners:
Tried and True:
The Nokta Legend
The Nokta Legend is perfect for someone who wants advanced technology without breaking the bank. This detector uses simultaneous multi-frequency and is waterproof up to 10 feet, making it a great all-terrain option. The battery lasts up to 20 hours and it’s Bluetooth compatible.
The Nokta The Legend is almost ready to use right out of the box, with minimal setup required. This detector will serve you well for many years to come, providing reliable performance and longevity. Most features are intuitive, but a brief glance at the manual is recommended to ensure you get the most out of your detecting experience.
The Manticore
The Manticore is a beast. If you want to dive in and become an expert, this is the detector for you. With advanced Multi-IQ technology, a target ID map, and Gold Mode, this detector prepares you for just about any target. It features advanced user settings, allowing you to customize your detector to match your experience.
The Minelab Manticore requires a bit of setup before you can start detecting. However, once you get it going, you can use this detector for life. Be prepared to spend some time with the manual before you start to familiarize yourself with its features and capabilities.
Equinox 900
The Equinox series, as a whole, is a great starting point for any detectorist. I like to think of this machine as your mini-Manticore. You’ll get similar features, but the Equinox has limited capabilities. If you want great technology without spending Manticore money, this is a fantastic choice.
The Equinox 900 requires minor adjustments before you're ready to go. This detector will serve you well for many years to come, offering reliable and long-lasting performance. A quick skim of the manual should suffice to get you started and ready for your detecting adventures.
The AT Pro
The AT Pro is a classic for a reason. This all-purpose detector uses VLF single frequency at 15kHz and is extremely reliable in terms of depth. It is waterproof up to 10 feet and has a 20-40 hour battery life, perfect for camping trips or beach outings.
The Garrett AT Pro is almost ready to use right out of the box, with minimal setup required. This detector will serve you well for many years to come, providing reliable and durable performance. A quick skim of the manual should suffice to get you started and ready to explore.
Nokta’s Double Score
Nokta’s Score Series does a great job of breaking down different levels of features, making it easy for you to find what works best. You can find a page that explains the Score Series as a whole, and each listing on our site includes a helpful comparison chart. I'll include that at the bottom of this blog as well. The Double Score is like the Goldilocks of Nokta—just the right amount of features to make you very successful without overwhelming you.
The Nokta Double Score is ready to use on the same day you pull it out of the box. While it offers solid performance for a few years, it might not meet all your long-term needs. The best part is, this detector does not require you to read the whole manual prior to use.
Beginner Friendly:
Each of these detectors is perfect for starting out without being so complicated that you might stomp on your detector out of frustration (like I may or may not be prone to doing...). Let's get into it!
Vanquish 540
This detector has a slightly different design than most of Minelab’s other models, but it provides you with the tools for success without needing to read a 60-page manual.
Note: Not water/rainproof, uses AA batteries.
The Minelab Vanquish 540 is almost ready to use right out of the box, with minimal setup required. It's good for beginners, but you'll probably want an upgrade eventually as you become more experienced. Most features are intuitive, but a brief glance at the manual is recommended to get the best out of this detector.
ACE Apex
The ACE Apex was one of the first detectors I used and felt successful with. I found it simple to set up and use. This detector does a great job of eliminating all of the complicated settings you may not want if you just want to get out there and go.
The Garrett Ace Apex is ready to use on the same day you pull it out of the box. This detector will serve you well for many years to come, providing durable and reliable performance. Most features are intuitive, but a brief glance at the manual is recommended to ensure you maximize its potential.
The Striker z60
This is a great first detector, especially for kids. Very lightweight, simple to use, and user friendly!
The Simplex
The Simplex is a great first machine. It helps you get comfortable with finding what you like in a detector without overwhelming you with options. Nokta has a great chart breaking down the differences within the Simplex series, which I'll include below.
The Nokta Simplex is almost ready to use right out of the box, with minimal setup required. It's good for beginners, but you'll probably want an upgrade eventually as your skills and needs grow. A quick skim of the manual should suffice to get you started on your detecting journey.
Nokta Score
This detector, very similar to the Double Score, has a few more limitations but is great for a first-timer who wants to experiment and be successful. The detailed chart is below.
The Nokta Double Score is almost ready to use right out of the box, with minimal setup required. It's good for beginners, but you'll probably want an upgrade eventually as your experience grows. Most features are intuitive, but a brief glance at the manual is recommended to ensure you get the most out of your detecting adventures
New and Hot - Keep your eye out for these!
X-Terra Elite
By combining Minelab’s top-performing features with their beginner-friendly, all-terrain detector, the X-Terra Elite is perfect for experienced detectorists looking for an upgrade or newbies aspiring to become pros. This Elite machine balances power, precision, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for all levels of treasure hunters. See our blog detailing the new X-Terra Elite!
Nokta Triple Score
The Triple Score is the ultimate detector for serious treasure hunters who want the best in customization, advanced features, and precision. Its multiple coils, extensive tone options, and user profiles make it the most versatile and powerful choice. See our blog breaking down the Score Series as a whole!
Garrett Vortex: Coming Soon
Stay tuned for more information! Make sure you are subscribed to our emails to stay up to date with what's going on. We will send out more information as we learn more.
Nokta Comparison Chart for Score Series:
