Minelab Comparison: Vanquish 440, Vanquish 540, Manticore
Minelab VANQUISH Series Comparison: VANQUISH 440, VANQUISH 540, and Manticore
Minelab’s VANQUISH series and the Manticore model are renowned for their advanced technology and versatility. Here’s a quick guide to help you compare these three models and find the perfect metal detector for your needs.
VANQUISH 440
The Minelab VANQUISH 440 offers a blend of affordability and performance, making it ideal for hobbyists and serious detectorists alike. With its reliable features, the VANQUISH 440 is perfect for finding coins, relics, and jewelry in various terrains.
- Search Modes: Coin, Relic, Jewelry, and Custom modes for versatile hunting.
- Target Identification: ID numbers ranging from -9 to 40, with clear differentiation between ferrous and non-ferrous targets.
- Target Tones: Three distinct tones (Low, Mid, High) to identify different metals.
- Discrimination: Editable patterns in Custom Mode to avoid unwanted targets.
- Depth Gauge: Indicates target depth for easier digging.
- Wireless Audio: Not available.
Unique to the VANQUISH 440:
- Price: Most affordable in the VANQUISH line, making it a great entry-level option.
- Ease of Use: Suitable for beginners and experienced users alike.
- Search Coil: 8" DD PROformance coil for reliable detection.
VANQUISH 540
The Minelab VANQUISH 540 builds on the 440 with enhanced features for more advanced users. It adds additional functionality and improved technology, making it a powerful choice for serious detectorists.
- Search Modes: Includes all modes of the VANQUISH 440 with additional advanced options.
- Target Identification: Same ID number range but with enhanced clarity.
- Target Tones: Five tones for more precise identification.
- Discrimination: Advanced Discrimination Segments for fine-tuning target responses.
- Wireless Audio: Bluetooth compatibility for wireless headphones.
Unique to the VANQUISH 540:
- Price: Mid-range pricing, offering great value for the advanced features.
- Search Coil: 8" DD PROformance coil with improved sensitivity.
- Iron Bias Control: Available to reduce interference from iron targets.
MANTICORE
The Minelab Manticore represents the pinnacle of Minelab’s technology, featuring cutting-edge innovations for the most demanding detectorists. It is built to excel in various environments, from beaches to gold fields.
- Search Modes: Extensive range including specialized modes for all terrains.
- Target Identification: Numerical ID from 0-99 with advanced visual indicators.
- Target Tones: Variable tonal feedback with multi-frequency capability.
- Discrimination: ID Map showing detailed discrimination settings.
- Wireless Audio: Not available.
Unique to the Manticore:
- Price: Premium model with top-of-the-line features.
- Search Coil: Enhanced detection with specialized coils available.
- Multi-IQ+ Technology: Provides superior performance with multiple frequencies.
- Target Trace: Detailed visual feedback for target identification.
Common Features:
- Waterproof: All models are fully waterproof to 10 feet.
- Digital Target Identification: Provides accurate ID based on conductivity.
- Fast Recovery Speed: Efficiently recovers targets from trash and multiple targets.
- Electronic Pinpointing: Helps precisely locate targets in the ground.
What Sets Each Model Apart:
- VANQUISH 440: Ideal for beginners with essential features at a low price.
- VANQUISH 540: Offers advanced features and wireless audio for a mid-range price.
- Manticore: Delivers unparalleled performance with the latest technology for professional use.
Explore pricing, specifications, and reviews for the Minelab VANQUISH 440, VANQUISH 540, and Manticore on their respective product pages to find the best fit for your detecting needs!
A complete side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Minelab VANQUISH 440 | Minelab VANQUISH 540 | Minelab Manticore |
|---|---|---|---|
| Search Modes | Coin Mode, Relic Mode, Jewellery Mode, Custom Mode | Coin Mode, Relic Mode, Jewellery Mode, Custom Mode | General (All-Terrain), Fast (All-Terrain), Low Conductors (All-Terrain), High Conductors (All-Terrain), Trash Reject (All-Terrain), General (Beach), Low Conductors (Beach), Deep (Beach), Surf & Seawater (Beach), General (Goldfield), Audio Theme (Goldfield) |
| Target Identification | ID Numbers: -9 to 40; Ferrous: -9 to 0; Non-Ferrous: 1 to 40 | ID Numbers: -9 to 40; Ferrous: -9 to 0; Non-Ferrous: 1 to 40 | Numerical ID: 0-99; Ferrous targets: Low tone, red Ferrous Indicator |
| Target Tones | Three Tones (Low, Mid, High) | Five Tones (T1 to T5) | Variable, with more detailed tonal feedback in multi-frequency |
| Depth Gauge | Arrows indicate depth (remains for 5 seconds) | Arrows indicate depth (remains for 5 seconds) | Arrows indicate depth (remains for 5 seconds) |
| Discrimination | Discrimination Segments, Discrimination Patterns editable in Custom Mode | Discrimination Segments, Discrimination Patterns editable in Custom Mode | ID Map showing discrimination and target ID; Adjusted via settings |
| Wireless Audio | Not available | Bluetooth for wireless headphones; Compatible with aptX™ Low Latency | Wireless Minelab ML 105 wireless low‑latency headphones (non‑waterproof) |
| Waterproof | Coil to 1m (3.3 ft). Box is NOT, only water resistant | Coil to 1m (3.3 ft). Box is NOT, only water resistant | Waterproof to 5 m / 16 ft, IP68 |
| Iron Bias Control | Not available | Available | Available w/ Greater Control via Ferrous Limits |
| Backlight | Not available | Available | Available |
| Batteries and Charging | Rechargeable AA NiMH: ~8 hours charge, ~11 hours run-time; Non-rechargeable AA alkaline: ~10 hours run-time | Rechargeable AA NiMH: ~8 hours charge, ~11 hours run-time; Non-rechargeable AA alkaline: ~10 hours run-time | Rechargeable Lithium-ion: ~7 hours charge, ~10 hours run-time |
| Sensitivity | 10 levels | 10 levels | Adjustable from 1 to 35 (default 20); Optimal setting for stable performance |
| Pinpointing | Yes | Yes | Pinpoint Mode, Manual Pinpointing |
| Target Trace | Not available | Not available | Detailed Target Trace for visual interpretation; Shows additional information beyond Target ID |
| Special Features | Custom Mode with personalized settings; Target Tone differentiation | Advanced Iron Bias Control; Backlight for low-light conditions | Multi-IQ+ technology; Advanced Target Trace; Specialized Search Modes for different environments |