Discover a selection of the best metal detectors, made of excellent materials and costing little in relation to the guaranteed quality, which make the searcher’s work easier. Check out the selection of good devices for metal detectors!
What should I look out for when buying a metal detector?
There are a few features that anyone interested in buying a good metal detector should pay attention to.
Discrimination mode
Discrimination is based on the type of material of the found object. The discrimination mode is, for example, calibrated to gold, which helps to search for this precious metal and to avoid others, such as iron, which is most often confused with it.
This verification can determine whether the object found is valuable or, for example, just waste. This estimation is based on conductivity or ferromagnetic properties.
The availability of discrimination modes also clearly indicates the answer whether there are detectors for gold. Yes!
Metal detector coil
The coil plays the most important role in a metal detector – it sends electromagnetic waves into the ground, which enable the device to find objects. The emitted waves are reflected by the buried metal, then return to the coil and from there to the device that informs the user of the find.
The larger the coil, the greater the range and depth. A small coil, on the other hand, is better suited for searching for small objects and for searches in unfavourable conditions (thickets, bushes and other obstacles).
Detector range and operating modes
Another important feature of metal detectors is their detection range. Different objects require different detection ranges.
A detection range of 10-25 cm is sufficient to detect a coin buried in the ground, 50-80 cm for an object the size of a helmet and 1 to 1.5 m for a canister-sized object.
Surprisingly, the long range of the detectors is not their most important feature, and most prospectors set the equipment to the lowest range and sensitivity to avoid finding ordinary rubbish.
Setting up a metal detector yourself can be complicated. That is why it is worth choosing a model that has several built-in operating modes.
Metal detector ranking 2025 – TOP 5 products
Usually, high quality and functionality exclude a low price. However, in our ranking you will find special models that cost little and offer excellent performance. Check out our selection – here are the best metal detectors for 2025!
Garrett Ace 250 – a good and cheap metal detector
The Garrett Ace 250 opens our ranking of metal detectors. This model, which is an improved version of the Garrett Ace 200i, is equipped with a precise digital identification function in 12 segments. This allows for accurate searches. The frequency of 6.5 kHz allows for the effective detection of low and medium conductivity metals. Another noteworthy addition is the PinPoint function, new to this series of models, which allows for precise localisation of finds with the help of a clear LCD screen.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Detection range: 180 cm
- 5 operation modes
The Garrett Ace 250 is a solution for both beginners and more demanding treasure hunters. Weighing 1200 g, a comfortable and robust design, and an easy-to-read LED screen make detecting extremely accessible!
Coil: 16.5 x 23 cm.
Discrimination mode: Visual Target ID, Graphic Target Analyser (GTA).
Detection mode: 5 – all metal, jewellery, coins, relics and custom.
Waterproof: yes.
Nokta Simplex Ultra – a precise metal detector at a good price
Nokta Simplex Ultra is the perfect choice if you are looking for a cheap metal detector with advanced features. The model can accurately determine the depth of the detected object. It also allows you to search for treasures up to 5 metres below the water surface.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Easy-to-use software
- Waterproof up to 5 m deep
In addition, the Notch Discrimination function allows the detector to ignore specific objects you have defined. The detector is made of carbon fibre, which makes it extremely durable.
Choose the Nokta Simplex Ultra for convenient searching!
Coil: 28 cm.
Discrimination modes: yes.
Detection modes: 6 – field, park, 4 Tone, 99 Tone, beach, all metal
Water resistance: IP 68 (up to 5 m).
XP Deus II – detector for underwater searches
This model is one of the leaders in its category. The fully wireless Deus II XP Metal Detectors are distinguished by fast multi-frequency technology, both on land and underwater. The user can choose between several pre-set programmes or set them themselves, ranging from 4 to 45 kHz.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Probe 9“ (22 cm) / 11” (28 cm)
- New control panel
This is a product for demanding treasure hunters. It offers great quality of work and is light and handy at the same time. It is perfect for longer expeditions of experienced metal detecting enthusiasts.
Coil: 28 cm.
Discrimination modes: yes.
Detection modes: 4 to 45 kHz, 24 programmes (12 factory-set + 12 custom).
Waterproof: yes (IP 68 standard, up to 20 metres).
Garrett Ace Apex – metal detector for the beach
The Garrett ACE Apex Viper has the advantage of being able to operate on several frequencies at the same time. With six types of detection and up to 20 operating modes, searches are extremely effective.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Multi-Freq function
- PinPoint mode
The easy-to-use device is also able to determine immediately whether the objects found are valuable or not. This saves time spent digging up nails or bottle caps, for example.
The waterproof Viper DD coil with Multi-Salt function allows you to search effectively in highly mineralised soil and on wet, salty beaches.
Coil: waterproof, 15 x 28 cm.
Discrimination modes: 20 modes.
Detection modes: 6 – zero (all metals), coins, US Coins, jewellery, relics and custom.
Water resistance: resistant to rain and minor splashing.
Garrett AT Gold – metal detector for gold prospectors
Garrett metal detectors are a guarantee of quality and the latest technology. The Garrett AT Gold operates at a frequency of 18 kHz, which allows for deep searches. The device even detects gold nuggets! Additional advantages include a wide discrimination range and 8 levels of sensitivity adjustment.
People have bought in the last 48h!
- Automatic soil impact control
- PinPoint object tracking system
The PinPoint function is a noteworthy feature, which is a graphical mode for finding targets on the display. Don’t be confused by the model name – Garrett AT Gold is the perfect solution for professional gold prospectors, but also a very good metal detector for amateurs!
Coil: 13 x 20 cm (DD type).
Discrimination mode: 44-point iron scale, Visual Target ID, Graphic Target Analyzer (GTA), Tone ID, Iron Audio.
Detection modes: 3 – All Metal and two programmes for searching only for non-ferrous metals and excluding ferrous objects.
Water resistance: IP 68 (up to 3 m).
Metal detectors in spring 2025 – FAQ
Are you planning to buy a metal detector? Find answers to the most frequently asked questions!
How does a metal detector work?
A metal detector uses the magnetic field that every metal object generates. This is picked up by a coil in the detector and the user is informed by an acoustic signal. The closer the object is to the surface or the larger it is, the more intense the sound.
How deep does a metal detector reach?
A good detector can find coins and other small items at a depth of approx. 25-30 cm. Large objects can be detected at a depth of up to 180 cm.
What should I look for with a metal detector?
With a metal detector, you can find small items such as coins, rings, pendants or cufflinks, as well as larger items such as watches or jewellery boxes. Some metal detectors even allow you to find gold nuggets!
Which metal detector should you choose?
What you should look out for when buying a metal detector depends on the level of experience or the purpose and search. Beginner treasure hunters will be satisfied with basic and cheaper solutions. More professional metal detecting enthusiasts must be prepared for a higher, but more feature-rich expense.
Why buy a metal detector?
Searching with a metal detector is an interesting way to spend free time in the field. In addition to the chance of finding interesting valuable items, a metal detector is also useful, for example, for discovering electrical installations in walls.
How much does a metal detector cost?
The price of cheaper but relatively efficient metal detectors is around 250 euros. Professionals, on the other hand, use equipment that costs between 500 and 1,600 euros.
Is a metal detector legal?
It is completely legal to own a metal detector. You can use it without a permit on the beach, for example. However, there are many places where you need a permit to search with a metal detector.