Best Metal Detectors to Buy in 2025
Whether you’re hunting relics, coins, or gold, the best metal detectors today balance performance, features, and price. This updated 2025 guide highlights real, in-stock models—ideal for beginners to pros—available on Amazon or directly from official sites.
Minelab Vanquish 440
Why it excels
Still the best overall budget-friendly detector, packed with multi-frequency tech and an easy-to-use interface, priced around $299.
Pros
- Multi-frequency versatility
- Lightweight and waterproof coil
- Good depth and discrimination for the price
Cons
- No wireless audio support
Who it’s for
Hobbyists and families seeking reliable all-purpose detecting.
Nokta FindX Pro
Why it’s notable
Portable, light, and powerful at around $199, this detector offers excellent depth and 3D target mapping via a smartphone app.
Pros
- Budget-friendly multi-frequency
- Smart app integration
- Foldable and waterproof design
Cons
- Small screen
- Limited advanced features
Who it’s for
Beginners aiming for performance without breaking the bank.
Nokta Simplex Lite
Why it stays relevant
Offers waterproof performance, built-in speaker, and wireless headphone support, priced around $249.
Pros
- Fully waterproof (IP68)
- Lightweight and full-featured
- Affordable
Cons
- Slower recovery speed
- No high-end filtering options
Who it’s for
Beachgoers and outdoors users needing a rugged all-rounder.
Garrett ACE APEX
Why we added it
Amazon–confirmed availability featuring multi-frequency, Z-Lynk wireless audio, and good depth at around $439.
Pros
- Flexible multi-frequency
- Wireless audio included
- Strong depth performance
Cons
- Manual settings may confuse newbies
- Premium price for non-Minelab users
Who it’s for
Intermediate hobbyists wanting high-end features without going pro.
Minelab Equinox 900
Why it remains top-tier
Gold-standard upgrade at ~$899; offers waterproof design, wireless audio, and excellent depth across gold, coins, relics, and beach modes.
Pros
- Versatile & waterproof
- Fast multi-frequency
- Detachable rechargeable battery
Cons
- More costly than entry-level detectors
Who it’s for
Detecting enthusiasts upgrading for full-feature performance.
Minelab Manticore
Why it leads high-end
Top-end detector with Multi-IQ+ tech, full audio suite, and fast response, priced around $1,299.
Pros
- Excellent depth and sensitivity
- Rapid target separation
- Premium build quality
Cons
- Pricey for casual users
Who it’s for
Serious treasure hunters and professionals.
Fisher Gold Bug Pro
Why it’s essential
Specialized gold detector at $339, high-frequency design, ideal for small nuggets.
Pros
- Extremely sensitive to small gold
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Real-time ground balancing
Cons
- Not ideal for general detecting
- Monofrequency only
Who it’s for
Gold seekers and prospectors needing precision.
Fisher Gold Bug DP
Why it joins the list
Big coil gold detector around $359 offering waterproof capability and high sensitivity.
Pros
- Large waterproof coil
- Good for coin/gold hunting
- Ground balancing included
Cons
- Limited to monofrequency detection
- Less versatile overall
Who it’s for
Prospectors needing water-ready equipment and deeper reach.
Summary & Recommendations
| Use Case | Best Pick | Why It Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Budget multi-purpose | Minelab Vanquish 440 | Easy to use, reliable, and affordable |
| Affordable app-powered | Nokta FindX Pro | Includes smart mapping and folding convenience |
| Waterproof all-rounder | Nokta Simplex Lite | IP68 rating and full feature set |
| Mid-tier wireless flexibility | Garrett ACE APEX | Multi-frequency with wireless audio |
| Upgraded all-purpose | Minelab Equinox 900 | Top-tier versatility and depth |
| High-end pro performance | Minelab Manticore | Multi-IQ+ speed and precision |
| Gold specialist | Fisher Gold Bug Pro | Focused gold nugget detection |
| Gold + waterproof needs | Fisher Gold Bug DP | Big coil, deep reach, waterproof |
FAQs
Q: Are all these metal detectors waterproof?
Not all. The Nokta Simplex Lite, Minelab Equinox 900, and Fisher Gold Bug DP offer waterproof capabilities. Always check the IP rating.
Q: What is multi-frequency and why does it matter?
Multi-frequency metal detectors scan using multiple frequencies simultaneously, improving detection depth and accuracy across a wider range of materials.
Q: Which detector is best for gold prospecting?
The Fisher Gold Bug Pro and Gold Bug DP are specifically designed for small gold nuggets and precision gold hunting.
Q: Are these detectors beginner-friendly?
Yes. Models like the Vanquish 440, FindX Pro, and Simplex Lite are excellent for beginners thanks to their ease of use.
Q: Is wireless audio useful in metal detectors?
Yes, especially for noise-free detection and more comfort during long hunts. Models like Garrett ACE APEX support wireless audio.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right metal detector depends on your experience level, budget, and hunting needs. Whether you’re a weekend relic hunter or a gold prospector, these 2025 models deliver real value, smart technology, and long-term performance.
For the best results, pair your detector with proper headphones, dig tools, and weather gear. Happy hunting!
