Best Detectors for 2025

We revisit our guide for the best metal detectors. Refer to that and all things about metal detecting and a range of product comparisons to inform your next metal detecting choice. Here, we try to produce a go-to resource for your 2025 metal detecting adventures!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, the hope is that this guide will help you navigate through the top choices available for the year.

 

Top Picks of 2025: Summary

 

Finding the Right Detector

To get you started, we're offering a one-time discount code on our metal detector collection.




Entry-Level 

It's challenging to find quality detectors under $350. However, there are some options when you're on a strict budget! We have a low-price collection that you may refer. We break down options for under $200 and between $200 - $350.

($0 - $200)

($200 - $350)

Mid-Range ($350 - $500):

Advanced ($500 - $1,000):

Premium ($1,000 and Up)

Best Choices for Children

The Nokta Mini Hoard or Midi Hoard are excellent for young treasure hunters. For more information, check out our previous post on detectors for kids.

Choices for Underwater

As described in our side-by-side comparison post, not all detectors are suitable for water. For underwater adventures, the Nokta Pulsedive is perfect for snorkeling. The Minelab Excalibur 2 is a great underwater detector as it is submersible under 200 feet! The next best, for depth, is XP Deus 2 excellent for up to 60 feet.

 

      Specific Uses: Beach, Gold, Relic, and Coin Hunting

      Beach Detecting

      For beach detecting, the Nokta Legend or Minelab Equinox Series (600 or 900) are ideal. If you can extend your budget, consider the XP Deus 2 package.

      Gold Prospecting

      When it comes to finding gold, the Minelab GPZ 7000 are top choices, offering advanced features for deep detection. The Gold Monster 1000 is an excellent option if your budget is under $1000, providing effective gold detection capabilities in a user-friendly package, and the Fisher Gold Bug Pro if you're budget is under $400 or the Bounty Hunter Time Ranger if you're trying to spend ~$200.

      Relic Hunting

      For relic hunters, consider models like the Nokta Legend or the Minelab Vanquish 540. Both are versatile enough to detect a wide range of metallic relics while also performing well in different soil conditions.

      Coin Hunting

      When searching for coins, detectors with good discrimination capabilities are key. The Minelab Vanquish 540 and Garrett Ace Apex excel in identifying valuable coins while minimizing trash signals, making them ideal for this specific type of hunting.

      Tips for Metal Detecting at the Beach

      Summer Detecting Strategies

      • Timing is Key: Aim to hunt the towel line in the late afternoon when people are winding down for the day, as this is when recent drops are most likely.
      • Water Depth: If conditions allow, wade knee-deep into the water, as this area can be fruitful for lost jewelry. If the surf is too rough for wading, focus on the towel line and beach access points.
      • High Traffic Areas: Target spots like volleyball nets and popular beach resting places. These areas often see a lot of activity and potential for lost items.
      • Prepare for Trash: Be ready to dig a lot of trash while searching. Bring a sturdy bag to collect and dispose of it responsibly.
      • Be mindful of others: When you're in public spaces, be mindful of other people and their space. While enjoying your hobby, let others do the same.

      Off-Season Techniques

      • Tide Hunting: Follow the tide line down to low tide and back up, searching in ankle-deep water. The best times to hunt are during full and new moons, which create the lowest tides.
      • Post-Storm Opportunities: After a storm, head out to hunt as the churning of the water can bring buried treasures to the surface.
      • Focus on Jewelry Loss Areas: At saltwater beaches, many people lose rings and jewelry while swimming. Focus on the bottom of the bank during low tide for better chances of finding valuable items.

      General Beach Metal Detecting Tips

      • Search Low Spots: Heavy objects tend to settle in low spots on the beach. Look for these areas when detecting.
      • Spiral Search: When you hit a promising target, spiral outwards around it for 5-10 feet. Targets often cluster together, so you may find more treasures nearby.
      • Watch for Erosion: Hunt in areas where the beach has eroded. The less sand between you and your target, the better your chances of finding it.
      • Dig Everything: Don’t ignore signals from can tabs; they can sound similar to gold rings. It's often better to dig every signal to ensure you don’t miss something valuable.

      Most Important Advice

      • Practice Regularly: The more you hunt, the better you’ll understand your metal detector and the areas you’re searching. Metal detecting is often a hit-or-miss activity, so persistence is key.
      • Stay Optimistic: Remember, costume jewelry is still jewelry! Every outing has the potential for a fantastic find, so keep your hopes high and enjoy the hunt!

      Conclusion

      Choosing the right metal detector can greatly enhance your treasure hunting experience. With these recommendations, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on your adventures in 2025. While we focus, mostly, on detectors, here, we have previously reviewed a range of pinpointer details and different Garrett pinpointers, but if you're looking for a pinpointer, consider the XP MI-4 or Garrett AT Pro Pointer.

      Don’t forget to grab your essential accessories, like sand scoops or digging tools, and happy detecting! 

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