Affordable & Easy Metal Detector for Beginners: Is the GoGonova Right for You?
Metal detecting is one of those activities that’s as much about the journey as the treasure at the end. Whether you’re an enthusiastic beginner or looking for a metal detector that the whole family can enjoy, the GoGonova Metal Detector promises to deliver an accessible, affordable, and beginner-friendly experience.
In this review, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the GoGonova Metal Detector—from its key features to how it differs from more established, higher-priced models on the market. I’ll also highlight its pros and cons and discuss why it could be the best beginner metal detector for you.
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This metal detector breaks down and ships conveniently in this small box.
For those new to metal detecting, choosing the right detector can be tricky. With high-end options boasting advanced features, it’s easy to feel lost in the technical specs. That’s where the GoGonova Metal Detector shines. This model is designed with simplicity in mind, making it ideal for those who want an easy-to-use, affordable metal detector without sacrificing essential features.
Key Features of the Gogonova Metal Detector
Let’s take a closer look at the standout features of this metal detector, especially for anyone looking for the easiest metal detector to use.
1. Simple Operation with LCD Display
With a very basic user interface, it makes using the metal detector very easy to use.
The GoGonova comes with an intuitive LCD screen that displays depth, sensitivity, and battery level, making it easy for beginners to understand the device’s status at a glance. With a few buttons to navigate, even kids and first-time users can quickly learn how to operate it.
2. Adjustable Sensitivity and Depth Modes
Despite being one of the more affordable metal detectors, the GoGonova doesn’t skimp on functionality. The adjustable sensitivity and depth settings allow users to customize their experience based on the type of terrain they’re exploring.
3. Lightweight and Compact Design
Everything you need to assemble the metal detector comes included along with headphones and a digging tool.
Metal detecting can involve a lot of walking, so the GoGonova’s lightweight build is a huge plus, especially for younger or smaller users. The detector is adjustable, making it suitable for both kids and adults, and it’s easy to transport.
4. Waterproof Search Coil
The waterproof coil is perfect for detecting in shallow water or wet grass, expanding your hunting grounds to beaches and creek beds. Just be sure not to submerge the control box, as it isn’t fully waterproof.
5. Battery Life and Power Efficiency
Operating on standard 9v batteries, the GoGonova offers reliable power without the need for frequent recharging. Its efficiency is decent, allowing for several hours of detecting without interruption, though this may vary depending on usage.
The GoGonova Metal Detector in Action
While no metal detector guarantees treasures with every hunt, the GoGonova is well-suited to detecting small to medium-sized items, such as coins, jewelry, and other metal artifacts. Its sensitivity adjustments work well, helping users ignore unwanted signals from objects like bottle caps, which can be a common frustration.
I tested out the GoGonova to see how it would perform out in the wild.
Overall, I think the GoGonova Metal Detector’s practical, user-friendly design makes it ideal for beginners and hobbyists alike. The LCD display and adjustable settings add enough functionality to keep you engaged without overwhelming you with complicated options.
Pros & Cons of the GoGonova Metal Detector Compared to Name-Brand Models
If you’re considering the GoGonova but are curious how it stacks up against big names in the metal-detecting world, this section will break it down. Here’s a quick look at some of the main advantages and disadvantages I found for you to consider:
Pros
Affordable Price: Often available at a fraction of the cost of top-tier models, making it one of the best cheap metal detectors on the market.
User-Friendly Interface: With easy-to-understand settings and an LCD screen, it’s a breeze for beginners and kids to operate.
Adjustable and Lightweight: Its adjustable length and lightweight design make it suitable for all ages, an important feature for families or anyone looking for metal detectors for kids.
Waterproof Coil: Allows for treasure hunting in various environments, including shallow waters.
Cons
Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some of the more sophisticated options found in high-end models, such as GPS tracking, pinpoint mode, or advanced discrimination features.
Not Fully Waterproof: While the search coil is waterproof, the control box is not, limiting its use in wet conditions.
Moderate Detection Depth: Suitable for shallow and moderate depths, but may struggle with deeper finds compared to premium models.
Slow Recovery Speed: It lacks some of the technology needed to excel in trashy areas and to be able to tell the difference between good targets vs bad ones.
Battery-Powered: Requires battery replacements rather than a rechargeable option, which may be less convenient and more costly for frequent users.
Not Ergonomically Friendly: The hand grip is quite large in circumference which makes it difficult for people (kids) to hold on to and there is no arm strap on the arm rest which would make it easier to swing and feel less heavy in doing so.
Comparing GoGonova with Well-Known Metal Detector Brands
When stacked against premium models like Garrett or Minelab, the GoGonova obviously lacks some high-end functionalities. Garrett models, for example, often include multi-frequency capabilities, allowing users to detect a wider variety of metals and at greater depths. Similarly, Minelab detectors tend to have enhanced discrimination features that make distinguishing between valuable and unwanted objects more accurate.
The Minelab Excalibur II has many more features built in to the detector and is also completely waterproof, including the headphones.
However, for users who are new to metal detecting or only plan to use it casually, these extra features may not be worth the significant price difference. The GoGonova is all about accessible, straightforward detecting at an affordable price, making it a strong contender in the market for budget-friendly metal detectors.
Why Choose the GoGonova as Your First Metal Detector?
If you’re looking for a beginner metal detector that balances simplicity, affordability, and essential features, the GoGonova may just fit your needs. Its approachable design and straightforward operation mean that even absolute beginners can start finding metal treasures right away.
And with its waterproof coil, you’re not restricted to dry land—this metal detector opens up a variety of environments to explore, adding a layer of adventure to each outing.
Final Thoughts on the GoGonova Metal Detector
The GoGonova Metal Detector is an affordable, user-friendly choice for beginners, hobbyists, and families. While it may not have the advanced capabilities of premium metal detectors, it’s designed to be easy, accessible, and fun.
The GoGonova is well-suited to those just starting their metal-detecting journey and offers an ideal balance of price and performance for the casual treasure hunter.
Just know that if you catch the treasure hunting bug and really start to enjoy the hobby of metal detecting, I think that you will soon be looking to upgrade to a more powerful and sophisticated metal detector.
But, if you’re in the market for a beginner-friendly metal detector that won’t break the bank, the GoGonova could be just what you’re looking for to give this hobby a try.
“So go out there and remember to “Swing4TheRing!””
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