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13 Best Stud Finders (Review) In 2021

Written by:
Jason Kelly
Jason Kelly
Jason Kelly

Ever since he was a child, Jason has loved repairing, building and creating things. Growing up, he spent all his free time carving intricate woodcraft pieces that soon caught the eye of neighbours and friends. Before he knew it, Jason turned his hobby into a job, earning an income from being his hometowns handyman. Many years have passed since then but Jason’s enthusiasm for woodwork remains the same. He can usually be found in his workshop, crafting furniture or restoring old treasures.

Last Updated: February 25, 2021
Show Contents
Contents
  • The Best Stud Finder
  • 1. Tavool Electronic Stud Finder
  • 2. Franklin Sensors Pro Sensor 710+ Stud Finder
  • 3. Zircon StudSensor e50 Wall Scanner
  • 4. Walabot DIT Plus
  • 5. CH Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder
  • 6. Tavool 5-in-1 Wall Scanner
  • 7. Perlesmith Stud Finder Wall Detector
  • 8. Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner
  • 9. Tacklife DMS03 Stud Finder
  • 10. The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder
  • 11. CRAFTSMAN 1-1/2 Inch Depth Stud Finder
  • 12. BLACK+DECKER Line Laser Stud Finder
  • 13. Zircon MetalliScanner m40

DIY is a fast-growing hobby. It's fun, proactive, and leaves you with a sense of fulfillment when done. However, there is something people tend to overlook: studs. Designed to reinforce stability in the frame of a house, missing one can easily cause a DIY disaster. A stud finder is a tool used to detect studs, as well as AC live wires. They flash and beep when one is detected, and some come with lasers or markers attached so you can pinpoint your drill holes. You don't realize you need one until it's too late. Stud finder will be a perfect addition to your toolbox. Below is a selection of the best stud finders to consider for your next DIY project!

The Best Stud Finder

1. Tavool Electronic Stud Finder

Best Choice
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Key Features

    Ergonomically designed grip

    Detection range of 1.2 inches to 1.77

    Four modes to choose from

    LCD display screen

    Made with years of research and development

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Tavool Electronic Stud Finder
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Let’s begin with our selection for best choice which is brought to you by Tavool. Tavool have been specializing in stud finders for years, and this one is no exception to the rest of their products. Equipped with the most advanced sensor technology, it accurately detects studs in the wood and among AC wires. There is a selection of modes to choose from and will always indicate the Live AC wires. Whether you are a professional, homeowner, or DIY hobbyist, this stud finder could be the fit for you.

Tavool Electronic Stud Finder includes four modes that can be used on woods, beams, joists, metals, AC wires, and deeply embedded objects behind hard unsuspecting places. ‘Stud mode’ can detect studs in wooden beams and joists up to 1.2 inches. For metals, the ‘metal mode’ will detect pipe, rebar, aluminum, and copper up to 1.57 inches. ‘Deep mode’ detects studs, wood, and metal parts up to 1.77 inches, all the while 85-240 volt AC current lines up to 2.36 inches. An upgraded model, the LCD screen displays everything clearly, the machine is fast, and everything works to make completing the task at hand that much easier. Tavool have developed this stud finder with years of dedicated research and development, which has contributed to the automatic calibration feature, and the ergonomically designed grip for comfortable use. If you are specifically looking for one of the best stud finders on the market, you’d be hard-pressed to find anything better.

    Pros

    It has a good feel when being used

    The layout of the device is straightforward

    Display screen is easy to read

    It is priced fairly

    Works efficiently

    Cons

    Does not come with batteries

    Activation button feels awkward to use

    Batteries keep falling out

    Initial calibration is painfully slow

    Initial detection might be off by about half an inch

2. Franklin Sensors Pro Sensor 710+ Stud Finder

Top Contender
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Key Features

    Accurate and deep sensing

    Instantly finds studs – no calibration required

    Displays stud center and edges simultaneously

    Detects wood and metal

    13 precision sensors

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Franklin Sensors Pro Sensor 710+ Stud Finder
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Most conventional stud finders come equipped with one or two sensors. The Franklin ProSensor 710 is far from conventional. It is equipped with 13 sensors that simultaneously work to detect studs. Multi-sense technology removes the need to calibrate altogether, putting it a step above traditional models. It’s so simple and easy to use, all you need to do it put it up against the wall and press the button, then simply let this stud sensor do its job.

The ProSensor 710 can detect multiple studs at the same time, and accurately displays the center and edges of whatever stud it detects. This stud finder works with a high degree of accuracy, analyzing the data it collects when pressed against the wall to triangulate the location of one or multiple studs. It also has a built-in bubble level, which makes it the perfect 2-in-1 tool. As fas as the best stud finders go, this one is right up there!

    Pros

    It’s an upgrade over the original design

    Readings are trustworthy

    Good enough for professionals

    The level bubble comes in handy when you least expect it

    Awkward to hold but you get the hang of it quickly

    Cons

    Does not work well for ceiling joists

    Susceptible to false readings

    Does not live up to the hype surrounding it

    It needs the calibration step

    Works for single studs, but multiple studs might confuse it

3. Zircon StudSensor e50 Wall Scanner

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Key Features

    Ergonomic grip

    Patented ‘Over the Stud’ indicator

    WireWarning detection function

    Detection range of 19-38mm

    DeepScan and StudScan modes

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Zircon StudSensor e50 Wall Scanner
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Our next spot on this best stud finders review list goest to Zircon’s SS e50 electric stud scanner. It detects studs, the edges of the wood, and alerts you if there are any live AC wires. This is a super convenient feature that helps you avoid hazards while performing your typical DIY. This best stud finder is enabled by the WireWarning Detection function, which warns of you the presence of live, unshielded electrical AC wires. This magnetic stud scanner has a StudScan mode which locates the edges of wood up to 19mm (0.75 inches), and the DeepScan mode locates anything up to 38mm (1.5 inches) deep. Zircon have made this with patented ‘Over the Stud’ indicator and SpotLite Pointing System to ensure the e50 produces trustworthy, accurate results. It is also designed with an ergonomic grip. When it comes to electronic stud finders, this is an excellent choice.

    Pros

    Feels comfortable to hold

    Once you get the battery, you do not need to change it

    Works with limited hassle

    Detection is a lifesaver

    Display works wonders

    Battery not included

    Cons

    The battery can be difficult to get hold of

    Does not work on ceramic tile

    Users have reported that this scanner might not work consistently

    Accuracy has been reported to vary

4. Walabot DIT Plus

Premium Pick
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Key Features

    Connect to your phone via USB cable

    Detects as deep as 10 centimeters (4 inches)

    Shows the center of the stud

    Can detect movement

    Cutting-edge technology

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Walabot DIT Plus
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Among our favorites when t comes to the category of magnetic stud finder, probably with one of the coolest names too, is the Walabot DIY Plus. One of the more sci-fi electronic stud finders you will see on this list, you will be able to see the studs as well as hear them with cutting-edge technology and detect electrical wires. You can download an app that will display the studs and wires as it finds them. When it comes to wall scanner and stud sensor products, this magnetic stud finder takes some beating. This is much more than a simple ‘beep’ function. Wooden studs, metal studs, lath, and plaster walls are hardly anything of a challenge thanks to the deep scan function. Not only that but with this magnetic stud finer, you may also find that unwanted pests might become less of a problem. That’s right! With this multi-tasking best stud finder, you can even detect pests. This magnetic stud finder can detect up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) deep in the walls and will automatically find and show the center of the stud. If you are searching for a product that can deep scan, stud scan and detect electrical wires, then you will love this magnetic stud finder from Walabot.

    Pros

    Works very well for finding Romex

    Works as long as you follow the instructions

    The display feature is pretty cool

    Offers more control over finding studs

    Works almost instantly

    Cons

    Calibration is fussy

    Graphic display for the app is faulty

    Shows wires which are not there

    Does not come with a cable

    Not accurate for wall plaster

5. CH Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder

Best Magnetic Option
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Key Features

    Fits in your pocket

    No batteries required

    Scans up to one inch deep

    Soft grip for easy grabbing

    Hands-free magnetic use

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CH Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder
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Simplicity is the key to happiness, so they say, and Hanson have designed this nifty little stud finder around that very principle. It does not need batteries, nor does it need to be charged, thanks to its magnetic stud operation. CH Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder relies on magnetic precision to locate metal and wooden studs, and active wires up to one inch (2.5 centimeters) deep. It’s one of the best stud finders we’ve seen in a long while, specifically, if you are searching for magnetic stud finders. It also includes a 2-way level to make marking much easier. This best stud finder is made with a soft grip so that it does not feel awkward in your hand, like some conventional models. Another factor to consider is that the magnets also allow for hands-free use. Just hold it up against the spot you want to check, and the magnets are strong enough to keep it in place. For magnetic power, this is an excellent choice.

    Pros

    Does not require batteries to operate

    Usually finds studs

    Good for small jobs

    Easy to hold

    Display works well

    Cons

    The magnets are not as powerful as you think

    Calibration is a struggle

    Gets slippery when holding it

    Sporadic accuracy

    Overly reliant on magnets

6. Tavool 5-in-1 Wall Scanner

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Key Features

    WireWarning indication system

    Easy to read LCD display

    High degree of accuracy

    Five scanning modes

    Scans up to 60mm deep

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Tavool 5-in-1 Wall Scanner
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Another Tavool product, this best stud sensor delivers a great degree of accuracy. It is designed with professionals in mind and has been upgraded so that it works much more efficiently than previous models. As a bonus, the shape of the sensor has been fitted so that it shows the edge of the stud as well as the center. Tavool 5-in-1 Wall Scanner has five scanning modes and can detect studs and wires up to 60mm deep. It really is one of the best electronic stud finders around at the moment. The Tavool stud finder includes the ability to detect live AC wires in walls, floors, and ceilings. Speaking of wires, this electronic stud scanner has been designed with Tavool’s WireWarning indicator, so you can drill without fear of hitting a live wire with a drill bit. Everything will be displayed on an easy-to-read LCD display monitor, and it sounds off when a stud is detected. The locations of wires and studs are shown with a high degree of accuracy according to size, location, and shape. For those among you looking to invest in one of the best electronic stud finders with the convenience of led lights and deep scan, this is well worth considering.

    Pros

    Reliable

    Easy to use

    Multiple depths come in useful for DIY projects

    You don’t have to hold down the buttons

    Detects AC power

    Cons

    Recalibrates itself whenever you use it

    Detection is so sensitive it can cause inconsistent results

    Bulky

    AC detection is somewhat erratic

    The ring is loud and high-pitched

7. Perlesmith Stud Finder Wall Detector

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Key Features

    Five deep detection functions

    Sensitive

    Lightweight

    Good for DIY projects

    LCD display screen

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Perlesmith Stud Finder Wall Detector
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Perlesmith have designed this stud finder with five deep detection functions and can detect up to 1.5 inches deep. It also comes with led lights. This helps you easily identify wood, metal studs, joists, beams, metal pipes, rebar, and live AC wires. It’s lightweight and easy to hold, so using it will be much less hassle. Perlesmith Stud Finder Wall Detector is so sensitive it can detect everything under walls, floors, and ceilings. Once a stud or wire has been identified, this will sound off and save you a significant amount of time by displaying everything you need to know on a helpful LCD display screen. Automatic calibration makes the process easier as it removes the hassle from having to hold down the buttons; it will even let you know when it’s ready by flashing and beeping. This will make your home DIY projects much simpler. This stud finder comes highly recommended and is among the best finders on offer.

    Pros

    Identifies all metals

    Finds just about anything

    LCD display is clear and precise

    Comes with a battery

    Works right out of the box

    Cons

    Breaks easily

    Inconsistent in finding studs

    Does not detect wires as easily as studs

    Finicky, challenging to calibrate

    Inconsistent accuracy

8. Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner

Best Value
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Key Features

    Laser detection

    Self-calibrating

    Graphic LCD display

    Flashes when something is found

    Everything is displayed

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Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner
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Masters of DIY tech, Bosch have designed the GMS120 Digital Wall Scanner with multiple modes and laser detection to locate wood studs, metal studs (and all metal objects), and live wiring. The latest three-sensor laser technology offers a wide range of detection performance, detecting as deep as 4.75 inches depending on the material of the wall. The Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner is also self-calibrating and includes three selection modes: wood, metal, and AC wiring. It will continue to calibrate throughout the course of your project for precise detection. All of this is displayed on an illuminated, graphic LCD display to indicate mode, detection, strength, and a whole lot more. It will flash when something has been found and display the center of the stud. If a value for money is a key concern, then you will certainly appreciate this magnetic electronic stud finder.

    Pros

    Very sensitive detects just about everything

    Great indication system

    Laser-precision

    Ideal for home DIY enthusiasts

    Self-calibrating

    Cons

    Erratic location

    Self-calibration becomes annoying

    Noisy

    The flashing can become frustrating

    Laser detection can stop working

9. Tacklife DMS03 Stud Finder

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Key Features

    LCD display screen

    Ergonomic design

    Automatic calibration

    Audible warning system

    Four modes for deeper detection

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Tacklife DMS03 Stud Finder
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Our ninth spot goes to Tacklife DMS03 Stud Finder. This is an updated version of a previous finder from their range that includes four scanning modes for deeper detection. It can detect studs metal and wires up to 100mm deep. Everything that is detected is displayed on a large LCD screen with three signal lights. You can use the screen to control the stud finder itself, as the modes and depth detection are displayed. Tacklife has also included a self-calibration function withing their finder and audible warning system so that your DIY projects are much easier to perform. An audible tone will noticeably sound when something has been detected in proximity to the finder. The design has also been updated so that it is more ergonomic and easier to hold. A cotton back prevents damage to the wall.

    Pros

    Ergonomically designed

    Easy to hold

    Upgraded, improved from above the previous models

    Three signal lights

    Everything comes in the box

    Cons

    Erratic detection

    Does not work for thinner walls

    Has a cheap feel to it

    Feels bulky

    Cotton back is rough

10. The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder

Budget Pick
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Key Features

    Hands-free design

    Simplicity is key

    Locates studs and wood

    Works well on drywall

    No batteries required

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The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder
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When you think of stud finders, you probably think of the StudBuddy. The world’s simplest stud finder. Some of the world’s best inventions are simple, and DIY enthusiasts will have an easier time using it than a more advanced model. The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder was designed with amateurs in mind. It finds wood and metal studs behind all drywall and locates nails and screws as well! If you have a wall to scan then you need our budget pick in your workshop. No batteries are required in this machine, and it hangs on the wall hands-free. Hang everything you need to hang, DIY anything you need to DIY. Everything you need comes in the box. Additionally, the makers of the StudBuddy support some worthy causes such as Hire Heroes USA and the National Breast Cancer Coalition.

    Pros

    Supports good causes

    Works on drywall

    Finds just about everything you need to find

    Easy to use

    Works right out of the box

    Cons

    Does not work on lath or plaster

    Tends to fall off the wall

    Feels cheaply made

    Erratic and sporadic accuracy

    Does not work with thin walls

11. CRAFTSMAN 1-1/2 Inch Depth Stud Finder

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Key Features

    Detects center of a stud

    Detects live AC

    Ergonomically designed

    Audible notifications

    Lifetime warranty

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CRAFTSMAN 1-1/2 Inch Depth Stud Finder
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Crafstman is yet another brand worthy of its enviable reputation. CRAFTSMAN 1-1/2 Inch Depth Stud Finder from their range of stud finders gives you some of the most accurate results you are likely to get from any stud finder. It detects wood and metal studs up to one and a half inches deep. The arrows light up whenever a stud is detected, and the device sounds off! Consistent readings are bolstered by the auto-calibration feature. Some users have reported that the LED lights start to die after a while, so it might be a good idea to get some good-quality batteries and keep an eye on it. This stud finder is also ergonomically designed for comfortable use and storage.

    Pros

    Lovely color scheme

    Auto calibration works

    Easy to use

    Turns itself off to save power

    Upholds Craftsmen’s reputation

    Cons

    Instructions are not that clear

    Batteries don’t stay in place

    You have to keep holding the button down

    Difficult to mark the stud

    The design is difficult to work with

12. BLACK+DECKER Line Laser Stud Finder

Best Auto-leveling
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Key Features

    LCD display

    2-in-1 tool

    Auto-leveling line laser

    High degree accuracy

    Detects just about everything

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BLACK+DECKER Line Laser Stud Finder
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Another kingpin of DIY, Black and Decker’s line laser/stud finder is good enough for professional contractors. BLACK+DECKER Line Laser Stud Finder is more than a simple stud finder. It has an auto-leveling interior line laser, making it a handy 2-in-1 tool for all of your DIY needs. The stud detector measures through most types of drywall, can detect through ceilings and is accurate to a high degree. You can use both features at the same time and can be used for typical stud detection as well as measurements and leveling like a measuring tape would do. The stud finder detects wood studs, wood beams, metal studs, and live AC wires with its patented technology, and everything is displayed on the easy-to-read LCD screen.

    Pros

    Laser liner works perfectly

    LCD screen works well

    Easy to use

    Well-established name brand

    Great for people who are new to DIY

    Cons

    Stud finder does not work as well as the liner

    Does not use a rechargeable 9V battery

    ‘AA’ batteries not included

    Not hands-free

    LCD screen starts to dim after a few months

13. Zircon MetalliScanner m40

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Key Features

    Metal detector

    Uses magnets

    Detects metal just about everywhere

    Works well on plaster

    Self-calibrating

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Zircon MetalliScanner m40
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Our final spot goes to Zircon’s Metalliscanner m40. This scanner is a metal detector that uses rare earth magnets to locate both ferrous and non-ferrous metal up to 2 inches deep. It works best through plaster and drywall, but can work with tile, stucco, and concrete. A 9-volt battery is included in the box, so it works the minute you pull it out, although it is recommended that you give it some time to charge first. Detection is quick, easy, and has a high degree of accuracy. For best results, do not use it on metallic surfaced as this may have a negative, or false effect on readings.

    Pros

    Works well on plaster

    Detects metal very well

    Works perfectly after a few tries

    Has a decent depth detection

    Can detect even old pieces of metal

    Cons

    Does not work on lath

    Does not work well as a stud detector

    Requires a lot of testing to make sure it works

    Sometimes it will beep for no reason

    Will sometimes pick up small pieces of metal

Features To Consider With Stud Finders

Below are some of the key features that we recommend you consider before investing in a new stud finder.

Stud Material

Studs can be made from any kind of metal, though the standard is ASTM A193.

Stud Location

Studs are used to provide more accurate torque values. They function as framing elements in the home, offering more stability. It is of great importance to locate studs in the wall before you decide to perform any kind of construction or deconstruction activity on that particular wall. 

best-stud-finders

Display

A few of the models you will see on this list feature either LED or LCD lights, on screens, or with light-up arrows to indicate where studs are located.

Bubble Level

Some stud indicators have a dual function as levels. If you are looking for a 2-in-1, look for a bubble finder. Alternatively, some have laser lines.

Grip

Typical stud finders have ergonomically designed grips so that they can be handheld. Others can be attached to the wall and work hands-free.

Earth Magnets

Look for something that uses rare earth magnets for better efficiency and results.

stud finder in use

How To Use A Stud Finder

In order to get the best out of your stud finder, we recommend that you place the unit against the wall, hold down the button to turn it on and slide it horizontally. The unit will beep or flash when a stud is detected.

Tips For Using Stud Finders

Below we've listed out our top recommendations on how to get the best out of your new stud finder.

  • Make sure the batteries are charged
  • Search for studs from right to left
  • Mark drilling points clearly
  • Move up and down in a location where a stud has been detected

Types Of Stud Finder

There are two main types of Stud Finder currently available on the market:

Magnetic

These stud finders use magnets to locate studs and wooden beams and will include rare earth magnets.

Electronic

These stud finders are battery-powered and work by triangulating the location of studs and wooden beams.

holding stud finder

Best Stud Finder FAQ

Q: Q: How do stud finders work?

A:

Depending on the type of stud finder, this will differ. Magnetic stud finders must be moved along to detect metal screws and bolts, while electronic stud finders detect density changes in electrical current.

Q: Q: What does a stud finder detect?

A:

Studs, wooden beams, and AC live wires. Of course, whenever you deal with live wires, make sure to have safety gloves, duct tape, or some other protection from electricity.

Sources

    How to Find Wall Studs Without a Stud Finder - Lifehacker

    How to Use a Stud Finder - Better Homes & Gardens

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