There’s always a burst of enthusiasm at the start of detecting for the first time. You can’t wait to get out there and find treasure. But having a poor experience with your equipment will hose down the fire pretty quickly. Eventually, you’ll probably just give up if your detector isn’t performing. So you need one of the best value metal detectors you can buy.
There are a whole bunch of metal detectors on the market. And, if we’re being honest, some are better than others. The trusted brands continue to deliver reliability and performance year on year. The newer brands can exceed the features of the older brands sometimes at a cheaper price, but the unknown is the durability and quality at the backend.
In this review, we cover the top 10 metal detectors with beginners in mind, and highlight their features, pros, cons, and a few final thoughts to assist you in making an informed decision.
1. Garrett ACE 300
Pros:
- Easy to use with intuitive controls.
- Excellent depth detection capabilities.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for prolonged use.
- Comes with useful accessories for enhanced functionality.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models.
- May struggle in highly mineralized soil conditions.
Final Thoughts: The Garrett ACE 300 is a reliable choice for beginners seeking a user-friendly metal detector with impressive performance and durability. While it may lack some advanced features, its simplicity and effectiveness make it an ideal companion for novice treasure hunters.
2. Fisher F22
Pros:
- Weatherproof design suitable for all-terrain use.
- Advanced target identification system for accurate detection.
- Adjustable sensitivity settings for customized detection.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons:
- Battery life could be improved.
- May experience interference from electromagnetic signals in urban areas.
Final Thoughts: The Fisher F22 offers beginner-friendly features combined with advanced technology, making it a versatile option for both beginners and seasoned detectorists. Its rugged design and precise target identification system ensure an enjoyable and productive detecting experience.
3. Minelab Vanquish 340
Pros:
- Multi-IQ technology for superior target detection in various ground conditions.
- Lightweight and collapsible design for easy transportation.
- User-friendly interface with preset search modes.
- Excellent depth detection capabilities.
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point compared to other beginner models.
- Requires some learning curve to master all features.
Final Thoughts: The Minelab Vanquish 340 excels in providing beginner-friendly features alongside advanced technology, offering exceptional performance and versatility. Despite its slightly higher price, its innovative features make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about metal detecting.
4. Nokta Makro Simplex+
Pros:
- Fully submersible waterproof design for underwater detecting.
- Built-in wireless audio for convenient operation.
- Lightweight and ergonomic construction for comfortable use.
- Advanced discrimination capabilities for precise target identification.
Cons:
- Battery life could be improved, especially when using wireless audio.
- Not suitable for highly mineralized soil conditions.
Final Thoughts: The Nokta Makro Simplex+ stands out as an excellent choice for beginners seeking a waterproof metal detector with advanced features. Its ease of use, durability, and impressive performance make it a top contender in its class.
5. Teknetics EuroTek PRO
Pros:
- Superior discrimination capabilities for accurate target identification.
- Lightweight and well-balanced design for extended use.
- Adjustable sensitivity settings for customized detection.
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious beginners.
Cons:
- May struggle in highly mineralized soil conditions.
- Limited depth detection compared to higher-end models.
Final Thoughts: The Teknetics EuroTek PRO offers a perfect blend of performance, affordability, and user-friendliness, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to explore the world of metal detecting without breaking the bank.
6. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
Pros:
- Rugged and durable construction for long-lasting use.
- Simple and straightforward operation, perfect for beginners.
- Excellent target discrimination capabilities.
- Affordable price point for entry-level detectorists.
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
- May struggle with interference in urban areas.
Final Thoughts: The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is a reliable and budget-friendly option for beginners seeking a no-nonsense metal detector with solid performance and durability. Its ease of use and effective target discrimination make it a popular choice among novice detectorists.
7. XP ORX
Pros:
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable use.
- Highly sensitive to small and deep targets.
- Advanced discrimination capabilities for precise target identification.
- Wireless connectivity for enhanced functionality.
Cons:
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for some beginners.
- Requires some learning curve to master all features.
Final Thoughts: The XP ORX offers professional-grade features in a user-friendly package, making it a top choice for beginners seeking advanced performance and versatility. While its price may be higher, its exceptional capabilities justify the investment for serious detectorists.
8. White’s Coinmaster
Pros:
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for easy handling.
- Adjustable discrimination settings for precise target identification.
- Affordable price point for budget-conscious beginners.
- Excellent depth detection capabilities.
Cons:
- May struggle in highly mineralized soil conditions.
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models.
Final Thoughts: The White’s Coinmaster combines simplicity, affordability, and performance, making it an ideal choice for beginners eager to explore the world of metal detecting. Its user-friendly design and reliable performance ensure a rewarding detecting experience.
9. Tesoro Compadre
Pros:
- Simple and straightforward operation, perfect for beginners.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy transportation.
- Excellent target discrimination capabilities.
- Affordable price point for entry-level detectorists.
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
- Limited depth detection compared to more expensive detectors.
Final Thoughts: The Tesoro Compadre offers exceptional value for beginners seeking a reliable and affordable metal detector with solid performance. Its simplicity, durability, and effective target discrimination make it an excellent choice for novice detectorists.
10. Makro Gold Racer
Pros:
- Designed specifically for gold prospecting, offering superior sensitivity.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design for comfortable use.
- Advanced discrimination capabilities for precise target identification.
- Excellent depth detection capabilities.
Cons:
- Higher price point may be prohibitive for some beginners.
- Requires some learning curve to master all features.
Final Thoughts: The Makro Gold Racer is a specialized metal detector ideal for beginners interested in gold prospecting. While it may require some initial learning, its exceptional sensitivity and performance make it a valuable investment for those serious about finding gold.
What We Think
After carefully reviewing the top 10 metal detectors for beginners, two models stand out as exceptional choices in terms of value and performance: the Garrett ACE 300 and the Minelab Vanquish 340.
The Garrett ACE 300 boasts a user-friendly design coupled with impressive depth detection capabilities. The controls make sense and its lightweight construction means less weight to handle on a long shift. We appreciate the included accessories.The ACE 300 has the virtue of simplicity, but still delivers an above-average performance.
The Minelab Vanquish 340 offers a slightly higher price point but makes up for it with better features and more tech. The multi-IQ technology incorporated in the Vanquish 340 gives impressive target detection in various ground conditions. Beginners get a boost with this as they don’t have to waste time trying to figure out the target settings. We like the lightweight and collapsible design that makes it easy to stow in a truck or just move around.
Comparing the two, while both detectors rate well in performance and value, the Minelab Vanquish 340 edges slightly ahead, mainly because of the extra tech that you get. On performance runs, the multi-IQ technology gives accurate detection across different soil types. Although it costs more than the Garrett ACE 300, the Vanquish 340’s advanced features probably justify the investment for a beginner who wants to advance quickly.
Both the Garrett ACE 300 and the Minelab Vanquish 340 are excellent options for beginners. The brands themselves are highly respected. No shame in having either of them in your posession. But of the two, the Minelab Vanquish 340 stands out due to its tech and better performance.