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12 Best Metal Detectors (Review) In 2021

Written by:
Unclutterer
Last Updated: February 12, 2021
Best Choice
Bounty-Hunter-TK4-Tracker-IV-Metal-Detector-image
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
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Best Value
Sakobs-Adjustable-&-Waterproof-Metal-Detector-image
Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector
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Premium Pick
Garrett-ACE-400-Special-Metal-Detector-Kit-image
Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit
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Show Contents
Contents
  • 1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
  • 2. RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector & Headphone Kit
  • 3. TAKLIFE 3 Mode Adjustable Metal Detector
  • 4. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector for Kids
  • 5. INTEY Customized Metal Detector Pinpointer Kit
  • 6. RM RICOMAX LCD Display Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
  • 7. American Hawks Gold & Silver Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
  • 8. Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector
  • 9. Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit
  • 10. Goplus Metal & Treasure Detector Kit with Shovel & Headphones
  • 11. OMMO Adjustable Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
  • 12. VVinRC Metal Detector with Pinpointer Function
Award
Brand
Rating
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Award:

Best Choice
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Brand:

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

Rating:

10
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Award:

Premium Pick
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Brand:

Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit

Rating:

9
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Award:

Best Value
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Brand:

Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector

Rating:

8
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Award:

Multi-purpose Pick
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Brand:

Goplus Metal & Treasure Detector Kit with Shovel & Headphones

Rating:

7
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Award:

Budget Pick
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Brand:

INTEY Customized Metal Detector Pinpointer Kit

Rating:

7

The Best Metal Detector

If you are looking for a new or replacement metal detector, you will know that they are useful tools for detecting the presence of many types of metal in nearby environments. They can find objects hidden under the ground that are pure metal, or that have inclusions of metal. If you are looking at a new prospecting hobby, are already a pro, or want your kids to spend time having fun and trying to discover treasure then new metal detecting gear might be right up your street - you might even find you have a little bounty hunter under your wing!

Some days you will find nothing and there might be that one precious moment you think you have found a valuable treasure. Either way, it's a great way to spend time outdoors and it's hugely rewarding when you find stuff. Whether you are or are not familiar with the features of the metal detector we have reviewed twelve metal detecting tools. The Unclutterer team has covered features to look out for like detection depth, target identification, operating frequency, battery life, waterproof search features, budget, and more. Go, find your pot of gold!

1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

Best Choice
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Key Features

    3 detection modes

    6.7 kHz

    Preset ground balance

    8″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 3.7lbs

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Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
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Our best choice metal detector is the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector. It’s a great beginner’s model as it’s easy to learn how to use. It is low frequency, quite a rugged and traditional design, and has simple to use control knobs. This is the only Bounty Hunter model we are featuring on our review list yet the company has been producing well-made beginner and professional level metal detectors for years. This is an entry-level model that uses a very low frequency. This means that it’s great in searching for coin-sized objects up to around 8 inches below ground, and larger metal objects down to around 2 to 3 feet.

The ground balance is an important feature as it minimizes any feedback noise from underground minerals – this model doesn’t need you to do anything to alter the ground balance as it is already programmed into the machine. You might like that the search coil lets you submerge up to 8 inches of shallow water.

    Pros

    Simple notch control

    Lightweight

    Easy to use

    Great for kids

    Cons

    Can’t narrow search field

    No LCD screen

2. RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector & Headphone Kit

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Key Features

    6 operating modes

    3 detection modes

    6 kHz (approx.)

    10″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 2.31lbs

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RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector & Headphone Kit
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The RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector & Headphone Kit is the best metal detector for beginners or at least one of them, the RM RICOMAX IP68 is the pricier of two metal detectors from this manufacturer on our review list. This particular model is great for getting the kids into a new fun hobby! While it does have all of the features that a more high-end metal detector does, these awesome additions might not perform to their level.

This large yet lightweight model has the 10″ search coil allowing for hunting through shallow waters. It has a good-sized, highly accurate, LCD screen and you can adjust power and sensitivity settings and you’re ready to go. Once it tells you it’s detected something you can press the red button to more accurately pinpoint its location which allows for less time digging as it helps avoid debris interfering with the readings. There is no confirmation on the frequency level.

    Pros

    Large LCD screen

    Easy to assemble

    Super accurate readings

    Cons

    Batteries not included

    Plastic bolts need regular replacement

3. TAKLIFE 3 Mode Adjustable Metal Detector

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Key Features

    3 audio tones

    6.6 kHz

    7.8″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 1.96lbs

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TAKLIFE 3 Mode Adjustable Metal Detector
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Perfect for beginners this is the TAKLIFE 3 Mode Adjustable Metal Detector and it’s got one great feature that stands out, especially for kids – the LCD screen uses cartoon smiley-style notifications, although it’s still pretty clever. It has a discrimination mode which helps to eliminate objects that you don’t want but includes the ones you do. This is an easy to use option for juniors or entry-level hobbyists if you or someone else is looking at getting into metal detecting.

    Pros

    Battery included

    Low battery indicator

    Fun LCD screen

    Kid-friendly

    Cons

    Short battery life with the one supplied

    Remove battery if used occasionally

    Only shows images not actual readings

4. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector for Kids

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Key Features

    Adjustable sensitivity

    Preset modes

    7.5″ waterproof coil

    Weighs 3.39lbs

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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector for Kids
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The NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector for Kids is perfect for juniors or those at entry-level as it’s easy to learn how to use it. It also comes with a full-color learning guide that introduces the user to the features, how to operate the metal detector, and what kind of treasure hunting you can do with it. It’s adjustable so ideal for kids of all heights and it contains full features for them to learn and have fun with.

The indicators on the LCD screen show battery life and the depth of the object/s found and, although this could be more detailed, we think that for the price and the fact it has been designed for kids nobody can complain and you know what to expect. This metal detector is good for searching up to around 6 inches below ground for coins or similarly sized objects with larger objects being detectable up to around a foot. It will also allow searching in shallow water up to 7.5 inches.

    Pros

    Great model for children

    Only needs 3 AA batteries

    Lightweight

    Cons

    Batteries not included

    Feels a bit cheap

    May prefer more features

5. INTEY Customized Metal Detector Pinpointer Kit

Budget Pick
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Key Features

    Discrimination and sensitivity settings

    Preset modes

    7.5″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 2.11lbs

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INTEY Customized Metal Detector Pinpointer Kit
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The INTEY Customized Metal Detector Pinpointer Kit is an efficient and low-cost option and is our budget pick. There are other better quality options available but this makes for a fun gift for a treasure hunt enthusiast. It’s a neat bit of gear that can get the young ones involved in hunting for gold! While it isn’t suitable for professionals or hobbyists it does have a few features that a learner will enjoy. It looks smart and sturdy and it’s a handheld pinpointer version which detects over just 2″.

It is highly accurate and it’s fun to turn the discrimination knob to the metal type that you want to find – nickel, iron, copper, and zinc – so if you are looking for something specific, perhaps something you have lost in a certain area – it helps pick up on it if it’s there. It’s easy to carry a bag is provided also, a nice little touch.

    Pros

    Great design

    Sturdy

    Lightweight

    Easy to use

    Family friendly

    Carry bag included

    Cons

    Only detects 4 metal types

    Not for the serious hobbyist

    No advanced features

6. RM RICOMAX LCD Display Metal Detector for Adults & Kids

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Key Features

    3 detection modes

    6.5 kHz

    10″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 2.3 lbs

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RM RICOMAX LCD Display Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
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The next metal detector is the second and cheaper of the RM RICOMAX models on our review list. RM RICOMAX LCD Display Metal Detector for Adults & Kids is an affordable option for a beginner and has been designed for kids and adults who want to start metal detecting. It’s not the cheapest metal detector but a great all-rounder. You can search for small items as you would expect, like coins and jewelry, up to 8 inches beneath the ground due to its low frequency (a little higher than the IP68, no.2 on our list).

The LCD display will detail how far you need to dig to find the object. The three search modes plus pinpoint mode, to zero in on your target, will ensure that you don’t waste time digging large areas and you will be able to search shallow waters at streams or the beach so it offers extra fun for the family.

    Pros

    LCD display

    Great for kids

    Includes carry bag

    Manufacturer replacement policy (if bought via Amazon)

    Cons

    Batteries not included

7. American Hawks Gold & Silver Metal Detector for Adults & Kids

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Key Features

    3 operation modes

    6.6 kHz (approx.)

    Auto ground balance

    8″ waterproof coil

    Weighs 7 lbs

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American Hawks Gold & Silver Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
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The American Hawks Gold &; Silver Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, an averagely priced metal detector, is another model designed for kids or beginners, so again a good machine to buy at entry level to get you started with a new hobby. This manufacturer is pretty small compared to other well-known brands on our list yet it still has some pretty mean features and includes extras that others don’t like batteries, carry bag, and headphones – smart little touches.

The LCD display shows the depth of the object you’ve found so before you start digging, you will know how far down you need to go. As always, discrimination mode allows you to avoid objects you don’t want and concentrate on the ones that you do. For the features, additional items supplied, and accuracy this is a great value for the first time buyer. You’ll be able to find coins and similar sized items to around 5 inches beneath the ground. Where American Hawks might have once come under the radar, their Explorer II model won’t let your relic hunting efforts suffer!

    Pros

    Batteries included

    10 year warranty

    Full kit supplied

    Lightweight

    Cons

    May work intermittently

    Assembly instructions difficult to follow

8. Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector

Best Value
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Key Features

    3 detection modes

    6.5 kHz (approx.)

    Preset ground balance

    10″ waterproof coil

    Weighs 4.2 lbs

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Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector
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The Sakobs’ treasure hunting metal detector is a great choice and similar to the Bounty Hunter price (no. 1 on our review list) but it looks a little different. The Sakobs Adjustable & Waterproof Metal Detector has some great features for a beginner, a child, or someone just looking for basic detectors. Although it is basic it is ideal for finding different types of metals that are worth searching for, its size is more suited to adults. Like most metal detectors with 10-inch diameter search coils it has a higher sensitivity than most metal detectors on our list that are either 8″ or pinpoint only.

The differentiation mode will allow you to determine the objects that you want and eliminate those you don’t want. It can find small objects like coins and jewelry to around 8.5 inches deep and the LCD screen will show various readings including the digital target ID and volume.

    Pros

    Includes carry bag

    LCD display

    Cons

    Batteries not included

    Preset ground balance

9. Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit

Premium Pick
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Key Features

    5 search modes

    10 kHz

    Preset ground balance

    11″ x 8.5″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 5.8 lbs

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Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit
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The Unclutterer premium pick within our metal detectors review list is the Garrett ACE 400 Special Metal Detector Kit which is at the high end of the price bracket, and for good reason. It has features that other models don’t have (it out-powers the Garrett ACE 300) but it’s cheaper than some other models like the Garrett AT Pro. It is very popular with serious enthusiasts.

This isn’t an entry-level detector like the majority of metal detectors on our list although even though it is designed for those who have been detecting for some time the controls are simple to use. That said if, as a beginner, you want to invest then our simple tip would be it’s great as long as you read the manual and learn to use it properly! It features iron audio, super sensitivity, responsive audio, 8 adjustable frequency levels to eliminate interference, and an impressive graphic interface. Super choice for those wanting more.

    Pros

    Only needs 4 AA batteries, included

    Excellent % of 5* reviews

    Lightweight

    Cons

    Price

10. Goplus Metal & Treasure Detector Kit with Shovel & Headphones

Multi-purpose Pick
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Key Features

    3 audio tones

    Discrimination mode

    10″ waterproof coil

    Weighs 6 lbs

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Goplus Metal & Treasure Detector Kit with Shovel & Headphones
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The Goplus Metal & Treasure Detector Kit with Shovel & Headphones is a fairly accurate way of detecting metals and it does have a discrimination mode so that you can eliminate objects that you do and don’t want to search for. It promises to detect six types of metal – gold, silver, copper, iron, nickel, and aluminum – and at its budget price, it’s a great way to get started. At the starter’s level, really all that is needed is a detector that is easy to learn and easy to control and, of course, one that finds what you want to by avoiding the rubbish stuff. The extras it comes with makes the whole kit multi-purpose and it is suitable for adults and kids alike, making it a good choice for family fun.

    Pros

    LCD control display

    Lightweight

    Easy to use

    Extras include shovel and headphones

    Cons

    More powerful models available

11. OMMO Adjustable Metal Detector for Adults & Kids

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Key Features

    3 search modes

    Adjustable sensitivity

    10″ waterproof search coil

    Weighs 6.41 lbs

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OMMO Adjustable Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
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Another of the budget buys on our review list is the OMMO Adjustable Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, one of the lower-priced we decided to review. It is fairly accurate at detecting small items such as coins and jewelry up to 8 inches below ground and is a good entry-level choice if you are looking to either try a new hobby or simply have outdoor fun with the kids. As well as being able to pick up a variety of metals it has an LCD display that has a battery level indicator so even the kids know when it needs new batteries. The display also shows the depth at which your object is so you don’t have to waste time digging, or can decide to move on to something to find that’s more shallow.

The all-metal mode will detect different types of metals, with the discrimination mode identifying only the metals you want to find. You can even search shallow waters up to around 8″ as the search coil is waterproof, although like all the others on our list the control panel is not to be submerged at all.

    Pros

    Batteries included

    2 year warranty

    Easy to use

    Carry bag, shovel and headphones supplied

    Cons

    Remove battery for occasional use

    Difficult to assemble

12. VVinRC Metal Detector with Pinpointer Function

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Key Features

    5 search modes

    Preset ground balance

    8″ waterproof coil

    Weighs 3.8 lbs

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VVinRC Metal Detector with Pinpointer Function
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If you are looking to be a budding bounty hunter, or want to do a bit of treasure hunting with the kids, then the best metal detectors are those that are easy to use but still have the features of an ‘adult’ model. This is brilliant for kids and beginners at entry-level. It has easy to use buttons and an LCD display that shows a number of things that make detectors great fun, helping you find gold (hopefully) and other metals!

The VVinRC Metal Detector with Pinpointer Function is a great example of an affordable and efficient detector with a neat little feature that shows icons on the display instead of technical readings. This has a discrimination (elimination) setting so that you avoid certain types of metals that you don’t want to pick up on.

    Pros

    Lightweight

    Budget model

    Fun to learn

    Cons

    Needs 6×1.5v batteries

Features To Consider With Metal Detectors

In general, the best metal detector either for kids or for adults is that with a simple, sturdy, and robust design. Good design will lead to the least confusion when it comes to your treasure hunting adventures. Strong and durable design will amount to a lesser chance of bewilderment and damage to the unit.

Lightweight design is the obvious feature to look out for too, especially if children will be using the machine. The best metal detectors are often built to be lightweight anyway because they're carried often for a number of hours. By avoiding utter bargain-basement models you will likely end up with a great model that will last, offer endless hours of fun for a child, and will still have all the features to learn and it may even lead to you becoming an avid gold hunting hobbyist.

There are a number of features to consider when you're researching and want to find the best detector for your needs even if you are hunting only coins for a bit of outdoor entertainment. Things like ground conditions, the display, water resistance, pinpoint ability, and discrimination are all things to look out for. Most of these things we have included within our review list, but here are a few more things we have drilled down that we recommend you look out for when you're planning on the best relic hunting trips. If you're asking yourself 'what is the best metal detector?' then you'll need to know that there isn't just one thing to look out for. Here you go...

Accuracy

How accurate metal detectors are, depend on a number of things. The ground conditions can determine how accurate the general settings are. If the ground is mainly contained with minerals it can confuse a basic detector. There are features that allow you to set to find all metals that it is able to, usually:

  • Gold
  • Silver
  • Bronze
  • Nickel
  • Aluminum
  • Copper

Most modern detectors allow you to set them up to be able to find a particular metal or eliminate certain metals. This is the discrimination mode. If you want accuracy then a pinpoint feature, once an object has been detected, will allow you to then zone in on the object. Whether you are gold prospecting or simply enjoying a bit of fun to find stuff with the kids, a good LCD display will be able to tell you what type of metal it has found.

the best metal detector

 

Depth Indication

Search depth is how deep your detector can find items like coins and other similar-sized objects. In basic terms, mid-range metal detectors will be able to find metals of up to about a foot deep. Larger objects are clearly going to be easier for the device to pick up on. Generally speaking, you can detect metals as deep as the coil is wide in diameter. So, if you have a standard 8-inch coil then your detector should pick up on metals it's able to, up to 8" underground.

Good detectors with decent features will indicate the depth at which it has found an object. This is one of the exciting bits as the display will 'indicate' to you how deep it is. Great if you start digging and the ground is simply too hard to get all the way down, or you simply want to move on and find something a little more shallow in the ground. Another great invention if you have kids.

Display

The best metal detectors have an LCD on which you can see certain readings. They'll show a variety of things including depth of the object you just found, digital target ID to find out what the object metal is, battery life, sensitivity signal, and discrimination.

the best metal detector

Discrimination

The ability for metal detectors to determine between the type of metal an object has is the discrimination feature. As you know, there's likely to be just as many rusty nails in the ground as there are bits of aluminum soda cans and probably far less of the treasures that make people want to go treasure hunting. Discrimination isn't left only to the best metal detectors and is a feature on most. Discrimination will save you time on digging up simple garbage instead of valuable treasures. Some will automatically be preset, most have the ability for you to choose between certain metals although gold prospecting enthusiasts usually set the detector to find all metals - no point missing out!

Water Resistance

Metal detectors that are water-resistant can sometimes be okay to be used under water to a certain level. A submersible detector that is used underwater will be for professional divers. However, if you have a water-resistant detector the likelihood is that the coil is waterproof so that it can be submerged to a certain level, usually to a shallow level and only as deep as the diameter of the coil.

Metal detectors designed for land with a waterproof coil can only be used in very shallow water and cannot be submerged. One example may be the Garrett ACE 300 or the 400 model we have on our review list.

A detector with a waterproof coil and waterproof control box can be submerged only in shallow waters. You can find a specific detector that can be fully submerged and is used for underwater detecting. You can hire these and it makes for a fantastic experience for enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

the best metal detector

Metal Detector FAQ

Q: Which metals can't be detected by a metal detector?

A:

It's obvious to say that your detector won't pick up elements like pearls and diamonds, it's for metal, after all, it will pick up on the majority of metals precious or otherwise. It will, however, struggle to detect stainless steel. The easiest way to explain this is that a detector works with electric and magnetism and this type of metal has poor electrical conductivity and magnetic permeability.

the best metal detector

Q: How deep can a metal detector target?

A:

No matter how intelligent your detector is and whether you want to use it as a family, beginner, or professional it can only detect the depth that it has been designed for. The coil diameter usually measures how deep it will detect. So if the coil measures 8 inches then it should be able to detect light objects (coin-sized) to the same measurement.

Some detectors are made to detect at a low range which can be around 3 inches to 6 inches, with a medium-range being up to about 10 inches. Professional models have a much higher and deeper range.

the best metal detector

Q: Can you get detectors that only detect certain metals like gold?

A:

Metal detectors are designed to pick up on metals like gold, or metals that have gold inclusions but there are some specialist devices that are specifically called gold detectors for that reason. Those that find gold are designed with a very low frequency (kHz) and they have a higher operating frequency than a metal detector. In summary, your detector is designed to find metal compounds and its features are therefore optimized for such a metal, among others.

Sources

    How Metal Detectors Work - Minelab

    How Metal Detectors Work - Explain that Stuff

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