Best Beginner Metal Detectors: A 2025 Guide
Choosing Your First Metal Detector: A Beginner’s Guide
So, you're thinking about getting into metal detecting? Great choice! Whether you're dreaming of finding buried treasure, lost jewelry, or historic relics, the right metal detector can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best one?
Picking the right metal detector can be a journey depending on what type of terrain you’ll be searching. Photo Credit: Ace Covey
When I first started metal detecting, I was overwhelmed by the choices. I had no idea what all the features meant or which ones actually mattered for a beginner. After years of experience, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know so you can start your metal-detecting journey with confidence. Let’s dig in!
**DISCLAIMER - As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. The links in the article are affiliate links that help support this blog and my channels. Metal Detecting Life is supported by you, the readers! When you purchase something I recommend via my links, I may get an affiliate commission (terms of service) — but it never affects the price you pay. Cheers!
What Makes a Good Beginner Metal Detector?
User-Friendly Controls
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is choosing a detector with too many advanced settings. Trust me, you don’t want to spend hours adjusting sensitivity, discrimination, and frequency before even getting started. Look for a detector with simple, intuitive controls.
Weight & Comfort
If you’ve never used a metal detector before, you might not realize how important weight is. A heavy detector will wear you out quickly, especially if you’re hunting for hours.
The Tesoro Silver Umax (2.2lbs) was the first metal detector I ever owned. Photo Credit: MD Hunter
Look for something lightweight and ergonomic—under 3 lbs is ideal. When I first started, I made sure to purchase a very light metal detector so I could keep searching for treasure all day long!
Target Identification Features
A good beginner metal detector should have clear audio tones and an easy-to-read display that shows what kind of metal you’ve found.
A simple display on your detector is a great feature to have. Photo Credit: Garrett Detectors
Features like depth indicators and discrimination settings will help you avoid digging up every piece of junk metal known to man.
Waterproof vs. Weatherproof
Not all metal detectors are waterproof, especially when it comes to the control box or headphones. If you plan on detecting near or in the water, make sure you get a waterproof coil or a fully waterproof model. Otherwise, a weatherproof detector should be fine for general use.
How Much Should You Spend on Your First Metal Detector?
Don’t feel like you need to break in to your treasure chest to afford a decent metal detector. Photo Credit: Ace Covey
Cheap Metal Detectors vs. Affordable Quality
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but not all budget detectors are worth it. Some are just toy-like models that won’t find much beyond a few inches deep. If you’re serious about the hobby, I recommend spending at least $150-$300 on your first detector. Anything less, and you might end up frustrated with poor performance.
Best Metal Detectors Under $100, $200, and $400
Under $100: GoGonova Kids Metal Detector – Good for kids, but for a little extra you can get a top-notch machine for your young one.
Under $200: Garrett ACE 200 – Solid, entry-level choice, with decent depth and is a name brand in the hobby.
Under $400: Nokta Simplex+ – Waterproof and packed with features for all levels of hobbyists.
Should You Buy Used or New?
Buying used can save money, but be cautious. Check for missing parts, test it before buying (if possible), and make sure it hasn’t been heavily used. I have found good deals from trusted people on some of the local metal detecting forums.
Different Types of Metal Detectors Explained
There’s no shortage of metal detectors that are available on the market. Photo Credit: Pro Stock Metal Detectors
Very Low Frequency (VLF) Detectors
These are the most common beginner-friendly detectors. They work great for coins, jewelry, and relics. If you're starting out, a VLF detector like the Garrett ACE series is a fantastic choice.
Pulse Induction (PI) Detectors
PI detectors are powerful and work well in saltwater environments, but they’re usually more expensive and lack discrimination features. Not ideal for beginners unless you’re beach hunting exclusively.
Multi-Frequency Detectors
These detectors, like the Minelab Equinox 600, can detect a variety of metals simultaneously. They’re more advanced but a great long-term investment if you plan to get serious about the hobby.
Best Beginner Metal Detectors for 2025
Top Picks for Kids and Young Hobbyists
Nokta Mini Hoard - Hands down the best metal detector for young kids 10 & under! I won’t even list any other options because they just wouldn’t be worth it nor compare to the Nokta!
I picked up this metal detector for my kids and personally tested it out to see how it performed. I was digging side by side a friend who was using a $1500 Minelab and this little Nokta Mini held its own picking up relics and treasures right next to the Minelab.
Not to mention the ease of use of this Mini Hoard, which makes it incredibly easy for your child to understand the difference between a trash signal and a treasure signal with a great visual display.
To help them locate a target once the hole is dug, I would suggest also getting a pinpointer to help them really zero in on their treasure and help cut down on the frustration of trying to find it with just the detector. Pinpointers can also be useful when digging in the sand at the beach (a great location for kids to start practicing).
Best Entry-Level Metal Detectors for Adults
Garrett ACE 300 – Excellent all-around beginner detector.
Nokta Simplex+ – Waterproof, affordable, and feature-packed.
Minelab Vanquish 440 – Good balance of price and performance.
Recommended Brands
Some trusted brands to consider include Garrett, Minelab, Nokta, Fisher, and Bounty Hunter. These brands consistently produce reliable and well-reviewed detectors.
Essential Accessories for Beginner Metal Detecting
SEE THE FULL LIST
Looking for more ideas on items to help you with your detecting adventure?
Digging Tools & Hand Trowels – A durable digging tool like the Lesche Digging Tool makes retrieving finds easier.
Pinpointers – A handheld pinpointer, such as the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT, helps you locate targets faster.
Headphones – Reduces outside noise and helps you hear faint signals.
Finds Pouch & Storage – Keep your treasures safe and organized with a Digger Pouch.
Best Places to Use a Metal Detector as a Beginner
Local Parks & Playgrounds – Great for finding coins and jewelry.
Beaches & Shorelines – Just be mindful of tide conditions.
Old Homesteads & Historical Sites – Always check local laws before detecting on historic land.
Your Own Backyard – A great place to practice before heading to public areas.
Understanding Metal Detecting Laws & Permissions
Private Property vs. Public Land – Always get permission before detecting on private land.
Metal Detecting Laws by State & Country – Research the laws in your area to avoid fines.
Ethics of Metal Detecting – Follow the “leave no trace” rule and fill in any holes you dig.
Your Adventure Starts Now!
Choosing your first metal detector is an exciting step into a world of discovery. By considering your budget, where you’ll detect, and what features you need, you’ll set yourself up for success. Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to grab your detector, head outside, and start hunting for treasures!
“So go out there and remember to “Swing4TheRing!””
