Cheap Metal Detectors Selection Guide

by Michael Bernzweig

Finding an excellent cheap metal detector can be a difficult task. With so many different makes and models on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. But don't worry; we're here to help you get started as a new treasure hunter. We offer many affordable many affordable options & free shipping on orders $99+. Also, keep on eye on our clearance section for rotating, highly discounted items.
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Affordable Metal Detectors

Some of the best metal detector models with an affordable price tag include:

This article will discuss some of the best cheap metal detectors on the market. We will also cover some top tips on choosing the proper detector for your needs as you start learning to metal detect. So let's get started!


Choosing the Right Metal Detector on a Budget

Now that we've looked at some of the best cheap metal detectors on the market let's discuss how to choose the right one for your needs. Let's face it; even if you are looking for just a beginner metal detector, you still want the confidence to know it is a well-made, professional metal detector. To begin your metal detection journey, you do not necessarily need to purchase the most expensive metal detector on the market.

If you have the right equipment, it is easy to find a coin or other metal object with a handheld metal detector. You first need to consider where you will be using your metal detector. You will need a waterproof metal detector if you plan to spend a lot of time in the water.

You will want to use a gold metal detector with a high frequency if you intend to search for gold jewelry or a gold nugget as your primary objective. As you can see, finding the best cheap metal detector for you is a personal journey, and there is no one size fits all solution. For example, if you plan to become a gold digger, the Bounty Hunter gold is one of the top models to consider.

A VLF detector will typically communicate about the target finds with an audio sound and information on an LCD screen. The newest models include information on the LCD display that is bright and easy to read. All of the models that we offer include a waterproof coil. You will want to be careful with some of the units found in mass merchants that are imported and offer search coils that are not waterproof.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a metal detector:

  • Your budget
  • The type of detecting you'll be doing
  • The features you need like VLF or PI detectors
  • The size and weight of the detector

From underwater metal detectors to gold prospecting and hobby metal detectors, these are the best cheap metal detector models available right now.

Here are our top picks:

Bounty Hunter Legacy 2500 metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter Legacy 2500 Metal Detector is another popular option for hobbyists on a budget. Bounty Hunter metal detectors are simple to operate and feature automatic ground balance and discrimination modes.

It also has a pinpoint mode that helps you locate targets with accuracy. The Bounty Hunter Legacy 2500 is excellent for finding coins, jewelry, ferrous metal, and relics.

Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector

As the top model in the ACE series, the Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector comes loaded with features for serious treasure hunters. Its standout capabilities include:

  • Iron Audio™: Hear discriminated iron targets and adjust mid-tone signals to avoid trash items like bottle caps.
  • High-Resolution Iron Discrimination: Separate good targets from nearby junk iron with precision.
  • Digital Target ID (0-99 Scale): Gain valuable insight into target type before digging.
  • 10 kHz Operating Frequency: Improved sensitivity for low and medium conductivity targets like gold and lead.
  • Frequency Adjust: Reduce interference from other detectors or power sources.
  • 8.5" x 11" PROformance™ DD Searchcoil: Offers superior depth and coverage.
  • Five Search Modes and Pinpointing: Tailor detection to coins, jewelry, relics, and more.

Additional Features and Accessories:

  • Eight Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments for precise control.
  • Expanded Target ID Legend for identifying U.S. coin denominations.
  • Adjustable length (42" to 51") and lightweight build (2.9 lbs) for comfort.
  • Comes with ClearSound headphones, a search coil cover, and an environmental coverup.

Whether you're hunting for coins, relics, or even gold, the ACE 400's advanced features and included accessories make it the best value in the ACE lineup. For those serious about treasure hunting, this detector is well worth the investment!

Fisher F22 metal Detector

From Fisher labs, The Fisher F22 is an excellent fisher metal detector option for those who are looking for an affordable yet reliable metal detector. This detector features:

  • Automatic ground balance
  • A waterproof search coil
  • Fisher F22 has a VDI (Visual Display Indicator) and incredibly precise target identification numbers. The VDI is one of the detector's finest qualities, ideal for all types of metal detecting!
  • Numbers 1-99 tell you whether you've found iron, foil, or other buried treasure like US nickels, gold, zinc coins, copper, or other metal objects.
  • Fisher's F22 comes with a 9" Concentric coil great for finding typical metal targets. This search coil is very sensitive to small targets while also providing good ground coverage.

The Fisher f22 is perfect for finding coins, jewelry, and relics. It's also lightweight and easy to operate, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Nokta Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector

The Nokta Makro simplex is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable metal detector that is also simple to operate. This detector has two modes: motion and all metal. The motion mode is perfect for finding coins, jewelry, and relics, while the all-metal mode is ideal for detecting larger objects.

The Nokta Makro Simplex+ includes:

  • Four search modes, including all-metal, field, park, and beach
  • Built-in vibration target response
  • Notch discrimination and Iron volume

The Nokta Makro Simplex comes with an 11" DD search coil with ample coverage and sensitivity. Additionally, it's weather-proof, so it's perfect for any weather condition! This detector is one of the most affordable on the market.

Fisher Gold Bug Metal Detector

The Fisher Gold Bug is a very easy-to-use and sensitive model for locating specifically gold nuggets. With the Fisher Gold Bug, finding gold nuggets has never been easier. Besides its 5" search coil, the Gold Bug is designed to reach those hard-to-detect areas to find more gold nuggets and flakes that have been missed by others.

The Fisher Gold Bug includes:

  • 2 Search Modes: All-Metal and Discriminate
  • 19 kHz Operating Frequency
  • Large LCD Screen with 0-99 Numeric Target Identification Display
  • No-Motion Pinpoint

Minelab X-TERRA PRO Metal Detector.
From Minelab, the X-TERRA PRO is a versatile and feature-packed treasure detector perfect for users of all experience levels. This detector offers:

  • PRO-SWITCH Technology: Easily switch between 5, 8, 10, and 15 kHz frequencies for optimized performance in any environment.
  • Waterproof Design: Fully waterproof up to 5 meters (16 ft), making it ideal for land and underwater treasure hunts.
  • Advanced Search Modes: Includes 6 pre-programmed modes — 2 for parks, 2 for fields, and 2 for beaches — to match your terrain and target.

The X-TERRA PRO features a large LCD display and intuitive controls, making it simple for beginners while offering room to grow for seasoned treasure hunters. With its lightweight 3-piece shaft design, it’s easy to carry and store, while the included V12X Double-D Elliptical Coil provides excellent ground coverage and sensitivity.

Other standout features include vibration feedback, adjustable audio tones, and a control pod flashlight, allowing you to hunt even in low-light conditions. Whether you're searching for coins, jewelry, or relics, the X-TERRA PRO is ready for every adventure.

Cheap Kids Metal Detectors

The Nokta Makro Midi Hoard Metal Detector is an excellent option for kids interested in metal detecting. The detector is easy to use, as it has adjustable sensitivity levels so that you can find small or large objects with this device. This model is an entirely waterproof metal detector. The Midi Hoard also includes:

  • Adjustable from 32.5 inches to 43 inches
  • A 7-inch search coil
  • A Pinpoint Mode

The Nokta Makro Midi Hoard is perfect for finding coins, jewelry, and relics. It's also lightweight and easy to operate, making it the perfect choice for beginners. This detector would be great for children ten years of age or younger interested in metal detecting as a hobby!

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about good cheap metal detectors.

Where Can I Buy Metal Detectors Cheap?

Cheap metal detectors are readily available online and in stores. However, it is essential to remember that quality should not be sacrificed for price. To ensure that you are getting a good deal on a cheap metal detector, you should read reviews and compare prices before making your purchase.

You can buy metal detectors cheap at a variety of places, including online and in physical stores. However, the best place to find affordable metal detectors is usually online.

How to Detect Gold With Cheap Metal Detectors?

While a gold detector with a high frequency is better equipped for finding small gold nuggets than others, any detector can be used when treasure hunting to find larger nuggets and pieces of gold jewelry. There are two types of gold detectors. Pulse Induction (PI) circuits are more sensitive to gold than higher frequency VLF circuits.

VLF models are typically cheaper than Pulse Induction metal detector models. VLF devices can be fun and rewarding for first-time hobby metal detectorists. Typically, these models are all-terrain in design and easy to use in a variety of environments. VLF circuits are sensitive to gold but also soil minerals. These minerals are common in highly productive gold prospecting regions around the world. Mineral interference can be filtered out by tuning these detectors.

When looking for gold with a cheap metal detector, it is important to research and look in areas where gold has been found before. There is a high concentration of minerals in these areas. It would be best if you also used a detector with a smaller search coil and a ground adjust so you can filter out minerals and have the sensitivity you need.

Additionally, using a discrimination setting will help you eliminate unwanted metals from your search. However, if you are searching for gold, you will want to keep your discrimination low.

What Are The Best Metal Detectors Cheap?

The question of which metal detectors are the best cheap metal detectors cannot be definitively answered. However, there are a few detectors that stand out among the rest.

The Fisher f22, Nokta Makro simplex+, and the Bounty Hunter Gold are all great options for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use detector. Metal detectors like these offer a wide range of features at a fraction of the cost of some of the more expensive metal detectors on the market.

These detectors offer a variety of features at a fraction of the cost of some of the more expensive models on the market. Some honorable mentions include:

Which Metal Detectors Cheap Are The Best For Beginners?

If you are new to metal detecting, the detector you choose should be easy to operate and have adjustable sensitivity levels.

The Nokta Makro Simplex and Midi Hoard Metal Detectors are both great options for beginners. These detectors are very simple to operate and have adjustable sensitivity levels so that you can find smaller or larger objects with ease.

How Good are Cheap Metal Detectors?

While some cheap metal detectors are not very good, several quality detectors are also available at an affordable price.

Be sure to read reviews and compare prices when looking for a cheap metal detector to ensure you get the best deal. You can buy metal detectors cheap at a variety of places, including online and in physical stores.

Just because a detector is cheap does not mean it is not good quality. In fact, there are many great detectors available at an affordable price.

When it comes to finding a cheap metal detector, there is no one perfect option. However, some detectors are better than others. The Fisher F22, Nokta Makro Simplex+, and Bounty Gold. These are all good choices for those looking for an affordable detector. Older models like the Bounty Hunter Tracker IV are more difficult to use, and you might be better off with one of the newer choices from Bounty Hunter. These detectors offer a variety of features at a fraction of the cost of some of the more expensive models on the market.

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