The 10 Best Metal Detectors 2026 | Tested and Reviewed

Are you looking for the best metal detector 2026 to up your hunting experience? You have come to the right place. Metal detectors are very helpful and fun to use. They are also widely available, so looking for one is not the problem. It is more difficult to choose just one of the numerous options you can find.

That is what we are here for – to help you get your hands only on the best product. We have prepared a list of metal detectors we can find so that you don’t have to get a headache while browsing over the countless options in the market. When we say the best, we are talking about the quality, the build, the functionality, and of course, budget-friendly.

Top 10 Best Metal Detectors 2026

Let us start big with the Ace 400. You don’t have to miss anything again with this metal detector’s higher 10 kHz frequency. This frequency provides better sensitivity for targets with low and medium conductivity, such as gold and lead.

The Ace 400 is designed with a frequency adjustment feature. You can easily adjust your device during frequency shifts to reduce and prevent any interference from other metal detectors. For the best output, this metal detector features five discrimination modes, electronic pinpointing, and enhanced iron resolution as well.

The 8.5” x 11” DD search coil cover is also a hit among other customers not only for its sleek design but also for how durable it is. With this cover, your metal detector is safe while in use. The ACE environmental cover-up, meanwhile, protects your control box from any dust, rain, or mud but be careful not to get it wet because it is not waterproof. It also comes with volume-control ClearSound Headphones completing the package.

What you need in a metal detector is quality, accuracy, and versatility – all these you can find in the Fisher Gold But metal detector. It uses V-Break, the industry’s first Variable Tone Breakpoint Discrimination, for faster target recognition. This system distinguishes iron targets with a low audio tone and the non-ferrite object with a higher tone.

This metal detector’s efficient discrimination feature will make it easier for you to distinguish between coins and relics and will help you accurately locate more valuable objects. The expanded 40-point Iron ID target range will make it easier for you to distinguish between larger and smaller items.

Another advanced feature that this pro metal detector has is its real-time display of the ground phase value and the Fe3O4 meter. These features will determine the mineralization of the soil to effectively locate the areas where gold is commonly found.

The Bounty Hunter Land Ranger uses the same V-Break, variable tone breakpoint to distinguish iron targets from non-iron targets. Together with the discrimination mode, this device also has a pinpoint feature with a depth indicator. This feature makes it easier to determine not only what might be under the ground but also how much you need to penetrate the soil to get that object.

The ground balancing of this metal detector is good. This metal detector can effectively determine the naturally-occurring minerals on the ground so you won’t mistake it for gold or coins. The interface of this device is also straightforward and easy to understand. This simple interface control is very convenient, especially for our beginners out there.

Your metal detector not only looks good but is also robust and durable. It is well protected also by an 11-inch DD coil for guaranteed long service life. This is also one of the more lightweight models in this list.

You will never go wrong with a Delta 4000 metal detector. This is also good for beginners with its simple operation and easy to follow instructions. The interface on this model is straightforward with real-time displays. It is also lightweight at 3-6 pounds making it very convenient for use.

You can easily adjust the settings of your metal detector however you like and whenever the need demands. You can tweak the discrimination and sensitivity level of this metal detector as you see fit. The pinpoint system and the depth indicator of this metal detector is top quality. The depth indicator can identify targets at 0 to 8 inches.

The detector is very well made and does its job effectively. This metal detector is ideal for hunting relics, coins, and other metals. However, this model is a bit pricey.

If you want a metal detector that can handle any weather and can withstand even in a harsh environment, then go all out with an F22 waterproof metal detector. This metal detector is also a favorite because of efficient discrimination mode and excellent target separation. Its Fe-Tone adjustable iron audio, for example, helps distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous targets. You can set the tones to a lower or higher sound to indicate one and the other.

The screen display of this metal detector is also large and easy to understand. It is also lightweight and easy to use with an instruction manual that is easy to understand. With its four modes of operation – jewelry, coin, artifact, and custom – you don’t have to buy another detector because this one does it all. However, this detector can be highly sensitive and may go off more frequently than necessary.

The complete accessories included in the package makes this metal detector an even more attractive option. It comes with an arm strap, protective cover, and search coil cover.

We have another unit from one of the most trusted brands, Garret. This one is also waterproof. It is ideal for use in fresh and saltwater. Not a lot of units, especially at this price, do good in saltwater, but this one is guaranteed to work in saltwater. You don’t even have to worry about damaging your detector as it is already waterproof.

The screen display is clear, and all the buttons and controls are properly labeled. It even comes with pre-installed batteries. Although, you may have to go over the manual a couple of times, and it may take some time before you finally get the hang of this metal detector. But rest assured, beginners can also use this metal detector.

The durability and quality of this metal detector are very much guaranteed. Overall, it works as it has been advertised and very much worth the investment.

Another top of the line detector is the XP Deus metal detector. Aside from having an extended discrimination range, the XP Deus also has higher sensitivity. With a frequency of 23 to 27.7 kHz, this metal detector can efficiently detect low conductivity and small targets. It can effectively identify treasure from junk. This device also features an audio response and ground balance.

The wireless headphones of the XP Deus have its LCD screen and controls. The headphones can control the detector alone. But it also has an LCD remote to control and adjusts the metal detector. The package comes with a coil cover for the protection of your metal detector. This detector is a total package even though it is a bit on the heavier side. But still convenient and simple enough to use.

If you are looking for a detector with advanced features, robust construction, and guaranteed performance, this one is it.

If you are looking for a heavy-duty metal detector the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker is among the best choices. This device can detect everything from iron, coins, relics, silver, and gold. It works even under the harshest ground conditions such as wet beaches and highly mineralized areas.

The control interface of the detector is simple to operate. It allows you to have full control of your treasure hunting experience. You can easily switch from one mode to another. You can adjust the sensitivity of your device to help you maximize the depth of detection or to minimize it to avoid random detections from going off. The ground balance in this one is also on point and can help you distinguish the natural minerals in the ground.

Although this detector is a bit tricky to use, especially on wet beaches, it is hard to get an accurate reading. Still, this product is one of the best at such an affordable price range and a worthwhile purchase.

The Nokta Makro Simplex detector is waterproof and is fully submersible. It has an IP68 waterproof rating and is submersible until 3 meters. It is also very well-made and has a rugged construction guaranteed to last for a long time. A waterproof coil and cover are also included in the package to protect your device.

If you are a beginner in metal detecting, you can go for this one. The control interface is simple to understand and use. The extreme depth feature and auto ground balancing will give you a productive metal detecting experience. This device, with its advanced features, can effectively distinguish junks, iron, coins, and even gold in the soil.

If only it comes with the headphones, then this product will be the total package. This product is still one of the best not only for beginners but also for impressing experts with its advanced features and high-quality performance.

If we are talking about the best metal detectors 2026, we can’t just forget about the Salinovo metal detector. This product works very well and is very affordable. Its discrimination feature is one of the best. You can remove undesirable objects in the discrimination mode. The excellent depth detection and target positioning helps locate objects accurately and much faster.

This metal detector features a 10-inch waterproof coil. Your detector is fully protected even under harsh environments. A lot love this unit because of how easy it is to use. The control interface is straightforward and easily adjustable to your desired settings. It is also conveniently lightweight and easy to carry around.

Although the detector comes with the shovel, it would have been better if the headphones were also included. Despite that, the Salinovo metal detector is one of the best you can find at a very affordable price. With its quality and functionality, it is easily the best value for your money.

How to Choose the Best Metal Detector 2026

In browsing through your choice for a metal detector, what should you look for? Where do you start, and how will you know that this metal detector is the best one suited for you? To aid you better in choosing a metal detector, here are some of the important things you need to consider first.
Budget allocation

Probably the most important thing you need to consider is your budget. Do you have the financial capacity to go for more expensive models and with all the accessories included? You don’t have to force yourself to spend way more than what you have allotted. As we have shown you in the list, there are a lot of inexpensive options available for you.

Although generally, the higher the quality, the higher the price is. But you do not always have to go for the expensive ones to get a quality product. You can find a decent metal detector with advanced features like those we have in the list above. It is important to choose a product that fits your needs and your budget.
Where will you use the detector?

Where do you intend to use your metal detector? You should consider the place and the type of ground that you have in choosing a more suitable metal detector. Are you thinking of a metal detector that works well with water?

Not all metal detectors are the same. Some models are specializing in detecting metals, gold, or silver, while others prioritize irons and coins. There are also metal detectors that work well even in salty beaches. Others are also waterproof. That is why it is vital to determine where you plan to use it, so you know which features to prioritize over the other. You can choose one that fits your area and your intended use.
Know the basics of metal detectors

It is vital to educate yourself with how a metal detector works and its basic mechanisms. You must familiarize yourself with the terms in metal detecting, such as ground balancing, discrimination, and pin-pointing, among others. You must know these terms so you will have a better idea of what a good metal detector should have.

If you are a beginner in metal detecting, there are a lot of models that have an easy and convenient operation. But if you are a professional, then you will have no problem exploring numerous advance options.
Sensitivity

On to the basics of metal detecting, the detector sensitivity is among the essential factors you should take note of before buying a metal detector. The sensitivity of the metal detector tells you the detector’s ability to detect smaller objects or to identify objects even with the ground soil mineralization.

The higher the sensitivity, the higher the detection capacity. But you also need to adjust your sensitivity to better suit the ground you are on.
Discrimination

Another crucial factor in choosing a metal detector is the metal detector’s ability to distinguish between treasures and junks. The best detector could easily distinguish and ignore any garbage that comes under its radar. With good discrimination, you can sort out and eliminate any unwanted objects from your pool of treasure.
Weight of the Machine

It is best to choose a metal detector that you can easily carry around. Most metal detectors for beginners are conveniently lightweight. Some professional ones are bulkier and are thus heavier that makes it harder to hold.
Other Accessories

If you have the budget, you can go for metal detectors that are complete with accessories. Some metal detectors come with a headphone and cover. Others provide a shovel, cleaning kit, or a safety bag.

We know that looking for the best product is bothersome if you do not have an idea of what you should look for in a wide variety of choices. The things we mentioned are just some of the most crucial factors you should consider. But with these in mind, we are sure that you will get the best value for your money.

Conclusion

Hunting for treasure is fun and worthwhile. The best metal detector will make your experience more fun and most productive by locating an object quickly and ignoring unwanted items. We have already shown you our picks of metal detectors and what to look for before buying one. What you choose is ultimately upon you.

We hope that this article has helped you choose a metal detector that fits your requirements and budget. Don’t forget to know your ground, your intended use, your allotted budget, and the basic mechanics of metal detecting to help you decide better. Continue exploring and enjoy finding treasures!