Metal Detector - Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis in 2019
Metal detectors are a perfect excuse to spend a pleasant time looking for "treasures" both in the countryside and on the beach. However, for this search to be effective, it is important to bet on a model that offers the power and range necessary to work comfortably. Obviously, we are not going to bet on a professional model, but at least one that is capable of satisfying your curiosity. This is what the Garrett Ace 250 model offers, the one most recommended by consumers. This product has a wide range of scope, as well as a special processor that allows us to distinguish between different types of metals, so that the scrap does not become a false alarm. Another interesting model is the X-Terra 305 detector, which with its control screen and interchangeable plates allow to modify the operating range and control the metals to be located. All in a light weight of only 10 kilos.
CANWAY Metal Detector with Pinpoint Function, Professional High Accuracy Gold Digger for Kids and Adults. Detect 3 Feet Deep Plus Shovel/Pickaxe and Bags GC-1028
What is the best metal detector in the market?
Tracking beaches and mountains with the intention of finding lost metallic objects, as well as relics or ancient coins is not only a hobby, but a passion. That is why we have prepared this guide to buy the best metal detector, an instrument that, using electromagnetic pulses, allows us to find metal objects under the ground. Our main objective is that you can make a comparison of metal detectors and finally choose a good and economical one.
Uses of the metal detector
We all look like interesting machines, but for whom are these devices recommended? In general, we could say that these devices are ideal for the most curious and adventurous spirits. In fact, many people search almost daily and there are communities in social networks that are dedicated to sharing photographs and stories about their travels and findings.
Searches include relics, native metals in pips, coins, etc. In 2008, for example, a Spanish diver named Mike DeMar, found a golden chalice on a Spanish ship that had sunk almost 400 years ago. For its part, the British Mary Hannaby found with her metal detector a gold earring for which she obtained around 50,000 euros. It did not hurt, do not you think?
Of course not all of us have had the same luck, but many of those who practice treasure hunts do not do so much to get rich as to hang out. This is a hobby that can be relaxing and, although they are not very valuable, you always get interesting things. In Spain it is normal to see someone on a beach looking for lost objects under the sand at the edge of the beach. At the end of the afternoon, when the bathers leave, some seekers go out to try their luck.
What type of metal detector is better?
At this time, you may be thinking about the price, but before asking how much it costs, let's see what options we have available.
Metal detectors can be Very Low Frequency (VLF) or pulsed. The first ones have the advantage of having discrimination circuits, that is, they can detect specifically the type of metal that we are looking for, while those of pulses do not. However, this does not mean that metal detectors, however expensive or sophisticated, are going to be infallible. Aluminum, for example, is often confused with gold, so that whatever the detector, it will make us take out another can of garbage.
Of course, detectors capable of discriminating, like some models of the Garrett brand , as well as others recognized in the market, can be a bit more expensive, but many people think they are worth it, depending on the use that is given. If you think about looking for treasures on a frequent basis, you will surely prefer one with a discrimination system, while if you are only going to use it very sporadically, it is preferable not to spend a lot of money, especially if we are beginners in this search for treasures.
Detection range
Although the manufacturers of detectors offer in their advertisements the depth to which the detector can reach, the great truth is that this is very complex to define. There are many things that influence; for example the type of soil, because not all have the same amount of minerals. In this way, a detector that offers to find objects at a depth of 25 cm may be able to do so in a soil with little mineralization, but in highly mineralized soil the sensitivity may be about 10 cm or less. The first thing is to be clear about the use that we are going to give you.
Another thing that can positively or negatively influence the detection capacity is of course the humidity. A moist soil causes metals to leave a "halo" that increases the chances of detecting them. This except in gold because it is a metal that does not rust or generate this effect around, even if the earth is wet. As is known, some metals give more signal than others. Among the easiest to find are silver and lead, while the hardest is usually iron.
Plate size
In this case, small plates are recommended to look for very compact objects. For example, if you want your detector to be able to find a chain, you have to have a dish of less than 25 cm, and vice versa, if you are only interested in larger objects, you will need a larger dish.
What is the best metal detector of 2019?
Acquiring a metal detector is a great help, so you should not take your choice lightly, and it is convenient to review several proposals, so we have reviewed five options that have been promoted by users so that you choose the most convenient for you.
Garrett Ace 250
Main advantage:
The most outstanding feature of this metal detector is its excellent price-quality ratio. For an affordable cost, compared to other similar products, you will have a device that delivers what it promises. In addition, it has the backing of a recognized brand.
Main disadvantage:
Some demanding buyers miss an instruction manual that details and specifies its functionality.
Verdict: 9.7 / 10
Users recommend it as a good purchase option, given the quality of its manufacture, its functionality and its ease of use; what guarantees hours of fun.
MAIN FEATURES EXPLAINED
Utility
Metal detectors have long been used at the military level, especially as support for the detection of landmines, antipersonnel mines and any other explosive device made of metal; Thanks to them, many lives were saved.
In the same way, they are used in the civil industry to detect the presence of water pipes, electric cables, etc. Despite their usefulness in these areas, metal detectors have also found a place among those passionate about unearthing "treasures".
The Garrett Ace 250 is a metal detector recommended for use by anyone who wants to have fun hanging out in search of underground metals, particularly on beaches, mountains or forests. You can find different types of metals and organize competitions with your friends, where the winner will be the one who finds more "treasures".
Functionality and precision
It is a device that has electronic location technology, which allows the discovery of buried metals. It also has an intuitive control panel, where you can easily adjust the various functions it offers. However, if you prefer more convenience, you have up to 5 default detection modes: relics, coins, jewelry, all metals and custom.
It has the function acceptance, rejection and discrimination, so that you can focus better on a more selective search. Likewise, it offers up to 8 adjustments between sensitivity and depth, which can vary between 2, 4, 6 and 8 inches; according to the geography of the terrain and the search patterns.
It is equipped with a 12-segment graphic cursor controlled by a microprocessor, this favors a greater sensitivity when tracing any area, offering the possibility of finding metals such as gold, silver and bronze.
Portable design
As important as its functionality, so is its design. Therefore, this model has a lightweight and portable structure, which favors its handling and easy transportation. In this sense, its dimensions are 28.2 x 56.1 x 13 cm and its weight only reaches 2 kg; so you can take it with you comfortably and store it without taking up much space.
In the same way, this device has an ergonomic grip, for it has a padded and adjustable grip that allows you to hold it comfortably with your hands without feeling fatigue or fatigue. It also works with 4 AA batteries, which are included with the purchase.
It is manufactured with resistant materials, which face different natural scenarios. In addition, it is a device that has the backing of the Garrett brand, a US company with extensive experience in the market.
X-Terra 305
Metal detectors are tools that, in their two main uses, are designed to offer adequate and fun results even.
Whether you want to search for hobbie metals or do it for professional reasons, you can find simple and lightweight models that offer adequate performance in that search. Models such as the X-Terra 305, which thanks to its 12 segments and its wide range of coils is able to find all types of metals in the field easily.
The Vflex technology of this product is capable of sweeping the ground finding from small coins or scraps of metal to pieces of greater size and importance.
This system also allows to establish the depth of the object, as well as to classify it, so that we know what exactly we have under our feet, counting on an almost automated start-up system that balances and activates the product with little intervention of the user.
Pros
Polyvalent:
This detector includes a system of coils that allows you to detect virtually any type of metal without having to worry about setting it up.
Advanced detection:
The screen system tells you both the characteristics of the find and the estimated measure to be able to find it.
Light:
So that you do not have to carry more weight than necessary, the detector has a weight of just over 2 kilos, so you can use it without having to carry heavy weights.
Automatic balance:
The automatic balance system makes starting up as simple as turning it on and starting to search.
Compatibility:
If you need a special accessory such as discs and other elements to improve your search, the product allows its assembly in a simple way.
Cons
Location:
In case of certain particularly thin pieces the detection work may not be as effective as if they are in a more reflective position of the wave, such as a song coin, for example.
Seben md_dt
Those who wish to find a product that stands out among the best metal detectors of 2019, should be interested in the Seben md_dt, which offers two basic detection modes, one for location and another for movement, so you can choose the one that corresponds to your requirements.
In addition, it incorporates a special incognito function where you can make the detection without being discovered, thanks to its automatic system that deactivates the lights or lights that can be seen at a long distance.
Regarding the depth of the exploration, it is possible to adjust it, reaching a maximum depth of two meters for large objects and 25 centimeters for small objects such as coins . Its operation is completely automatic, since when you turn it on it will start to do the tracing, whose characteristics you can adjust in its simple control panel, which gives you a good degree of visualization at all times.
The search dish is waterproof, so water or rain will not be a problem when using it.
There are devices that do not need to be very expensive to offer you some outstanding features. Therefore, we have come across the best metal detector for 100 euros which is an option to consider, especially if you read the advantages set out below.
Pros
Easy use:
It is made to be used immediately after you turn it on. You only adjust the detection mode you want: movement or location, sensitivity and you're done.
Incognito mode:
It incorporates a mechanism that when activated, deactivates all the lights of the device so you can continue your search without being detected.
Detection:
It has a maximum depth of detection for large objects, 2 meters. For small objects, the maximum depth is 25 cm.
Search dish:
It is 21 cm in diameter and according to the manufacturer, offers a fairly wide area of location. As a complement, the plate is waterproofed, so you can use it in the rain or on the beach without risks.
Various features:
It has an input for 3.5 mm earphones, ergonomic design, removable and adjustable telescopic rod.
Visua VSMD10
The Visua VSMD10 has been designated by the users as the best quality price metal detector, since it can perform a tracking at various depths, which are around 16 and 20 centimeters, so it is ideal to be used in different environments.
If you need to use it in open spaces with presence of water or chances of rain, do not worry, because the tracking dish is waterproof, in addition, you will have a good range of detection because the dish has a diameter of 16.5 centimeters, so that you can do the tracking process in an efficient way, without passing any area of the surface overlooked.
If you do not want anyone to hear the alarm or sound alert, you can use a headset because it has the corresponding installation port. It also has the functions of ignoring and discriminating, so that you can choose which metals you are interested in finding.
It is inevitable to ask yourself which metal detector to buy with so many available options. We recommend that you read what the model of Visua has to convince you and you can decide at once.
Pros
Detection:
It has a detection capacity of between 16 and 20 cm deep, depending on the surface in which it is used.
Discriminate and ignore:
It incorporates the possibility of making use of the discrimination and ignore functions to avoid signals that do not interest you.
Features:
The support for the arm is adjustable, has a visual and sound detection indicator, headphones can be used in its 3.5 mm connector.
Search dish:
It is waterproof for use in areas with water contact and has a diameter of 16.5 cm, which according to the manufacturer offers a broad search area.
Cons
Discrimination:
A few users have reported that this metal detector tends not to differentiate metals when they are joined in the same structure.
Seben md_ts
In case you do not know which is the best metal detector that fits your needs, you should also evaluate the Seben md_ts, a model that has high levels of depth at the time of the exploration, since it can perceive metals up to 2.5 meters for large objects and 35 centimeters for small objects, so you can do the detection effectively.
In addition, to achieve this goal, it also incorporates the special configuration function to ignore or exclude certain metals and set specifically on others, which is very useful if you are looking for a particular metal.
As for the search dish, you should know that it measures 25 centimeters, which also gives it a powerful range of exploration and will allow surface exploration to be as complete as possible. All the detection settings can be done in its simple menu, which gives you a good degree of visualization.
Several customers have stated that the best brand of metal detectors that you can find in the market is Seben. Read what this model of this brand offers you and evaluate if it is what you are looking for.
Pros
Detection:
It is capable of detecting large metal objects about 2.5 m deep without any problem. Small objects can be detected at a maximum depth of 35 cm, also without difficulty.
Ignore materials:
It can be configured to exclude or include, as the case may be, metals in order to offer you a more efficient search and without so many false alarms.
Search dish:
This part of the device measures 25 cm in diameter which, according to the manufacturer, offers an efficient search area. In addition, it is waterproof, so you can use it with some caution, of course.
Pinpointing:
It is a function that will allow you to obtain the exact location of the signal you receive, in addition to its depth.
Cons
Discrimination:
Some users judge that this detector does not discriminate the metals efficiently, emitting the same signal for several.
Velleman CS130
If you do not want to invest a lot of money in this purchase, you should know that this model is one of the cheapest in the market , as users have said.
It is an analog detector a little simpler in terms of its functions, but that meets the main requirements, such as detecting various types of metals, in case you perform a broad search.
If you want to find a specific metal, the device will tell you at all times what type of metal it has detected, so this will not be a problem either.
On the other hand, in case you need to do the exploration with discretion and do not want to generate noise through alerts of the device, you can connect your hearing aids and make the process more silent and comfortable, because it has an ergonomic arm that is light and you can Adjust according to the size and scope that best suits your height.
Searching among all the candidates in the market, we do not run into one of the cheapest and, even so, offers some essential features to be considered in our list. Continue reading to know its positive and negative aspects.
Pros
Detection:
It has the ability to detect numerous types of metals, so you will not need to limit your search drastically.
Controls:
In the control panel you can adjust the levels of volume, sensitivity, etc. There you will also find the low battery indicator.
Headphones:
If you want to go unnoticed while using the metal detector, you can connect the hearing aid to be more aware of the detection signals and not disturb others.
Weight:
It is very light, compared to other competitors, making its use and handling a comfortable and uncomplicated. The weight is only 650 g.
Cons
Detection capacity:
Some users say that the ability to detect metals is limited and will not reach deep into surfaces.
Garrett Ace 250
It is a detector that works with a graphic cursor of 12 segments, which gives a wide range of sensitivity to detect metal objects anywhere.
In addition, depending on the area where you are located you can program the levels of sensitivity, since some surfaces may need a greater degree of sensitivity than others, and this will allow you to make more efficient use of energy.
To provide a better user experience, includes a simple control panel, where you can select its various functions, among which we can mention the acceptance, rejection or discrimination, which will help you to use the device in a better way. As for the depth, it is also possible to adjust it, so you should not worry if you are in an area with different reliefs.
It also has an ergonomic grip with a support for your hand, so you do not get too tired when holding the device. For these reasons it has been qualified as the best metal detector, according to the opinion of the users.
When looking for the best metal detector of the moment, you can not ignore this model that has received many positive reviews from customers. Read its features below.
Pros
Target ID:
This detector uses a Target ID graphic cursor of 12 segments, which allows to extend the effective search area of the device in a remarkable way.
Sensitivity levels:
It can be adjusted with up to 8 levels of sensitivity to metals to take better advantage of its capabilities in different terrains, as well as make efficient use of the battery.
Control Panel:
In this are all the necessary controls to make the adjustments that you think are relevant to your search: sensitivity, discrimination, volume and others.
Modes:
It comes with 5 detection modes in case you do not want to make the settings manually and jump into action at once.
Microprocessor:
It incorporates said electronic device to make more efficient the search and detection of metals, since it is capable of differentiating between jewels, iron, scrap metal and more.
How to use a metal detector
Spending some time tracing treasures on a beach with a metal detector can be one of the funniest and most lucrative activities we can imagine. The most common items that we can find thanks to these tools are coins and jewelry, however, we can easily be deceived by nails, bottle tops and soda cans. For this we must know well the use of this tool and thus make the most of it.
Unpack and read the instructions
The first thing to do is unpack the entire tool, carefully removing it from the box. It is highly recommended that the user manual be thoroughly read, reading it carefully, so that we know the operation of the device completely.
Check the battery
As it is a hand tool, which is used crossing large areas of land, we must take into account that its operation is based on battery, so it is essential to check the load of it before leaving home and prepare to move to the site we want to explore. It is even suggested to have an extra battery for emergencies.
Adjust the discriminator
In case your metal detector has a discriminator, it is recommended to adjust it beforehand. The discriminator allows you to distinguish between good and bad objects when you are in the search, so it is necessary to calibrate or adjust the level. There are special moments when you can use a technique called reverse discrimination, where the signal of low levels increases.
Learn from the sounds
It is suggested to train the ear with a practical exercise, which is based on passing the coil of the metal detector over different objects and materials such as pieces of gold and silver, coins, nails and cans, to listen in this way to the different tones that the device emits and record the sound it generates for each one.
Adjust the frequency
Another adjustment that you should take into account is the frequency. These devices operate with a very low frequency system called VLF or with electromagnetic pulses. If the model allows choosing between the two, consider that the VLF works by detecting a specific metal; instead, the pulse detects all metals.
Choose the place you want to explore
After checking that you have charged the battery, have your tool set and know all its functions in detail, you must choose a place to go to implement your explorer skills.
In general, any park or natural place is good, however, keep in mind that there are places that have more history or that have been famous for having given other explorers treasures before. No one says that there is nothing left to discover in those places.
Walking technique
The suggestion is to walk with the receiving coil about 15 centimeters approximately and completely parallel with the ground, always being very attentive to the tones that the detector emits. When listening to a reaction, center the coil directly on the sound source, looking for the place where the signal becomes more defined and proceed to dig. With a little luck you will have found something of value.
The most popular brands
The metal detector is a very useful equipment to provide your company or business with greater security. If you are thinking about acquiring one of these devices, analyze some of the best brands, chosen after a careful review of the characteristics of the products and the opinions of users on the Internet. These brands are Garrett, Seben and X-Terra.
1.Garrett
The company was founded in Garland, Texas, by electronic engineer Charles Garrett in 1964 as a small family business, where he developed his first metal detector, called Hunter, with technology learned during his years of service in the US Navy.
The company grew over the years, pioneering the introduction of the portable metal detector and ground detectors, until the mid-eighties, the Garrett Metal Detectors becomes one of the largest manufacturers of metal detectors of the world, with more than 1,800 distributors worldwide. The company is also founder and sponsor of the International Treasure Hunting Society, which brings together fans to search for hidden treasures on earth.
The company has also sponsored events of global importance, and its products are frequently used in events such as the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cups, match conventions, even in UN General Assemblies, among others.
The strength of the brand is of course its metal detectors, considered among the best in the world, of which they offer in their line specific detectors for gold, underwater, portal, hand, minerals, among others. In addition, it offers various accessories for the practice of metal search as dishes for detectors, backpacks , bags, headphones , trays, and other implements.
2.Seben (singura varianta)
The Seben company is established as a world reference in implements for the practice of nature sports such as camping, fishing, hunting, as well as optical and scientific equipment. It was born and has its headquarters in Berlin, Germany, and its biggest sales field is based in Europe, although in recent years the brand has had great impact in America, Asia and Australia. It is also worth noting the high standards in service and constant information to consumers and resellers in various platforms offered by the company.
Among the products offered by the brand are home-made and professional telescopes with the latest technology, accessories for telescopes , microscopes , binoculars , binoculars, security cameras and metal detectors. The latter are characterized by their power, being able to detect metals in the ground at great depth, and are designed for those who practice the search for metals as a sport and hobby. They are undoubtedly devices with great effectiveness at an affordable price, so in recent years has increased the sale and prestige of these products on the Internet sales pages.
X-Terra
The X-Terra series is a brand of the Australian company Minelab , founded in 1985 with the launch of its first metal detector, the Goldseeker 15000. Since then it has become a world leader in the provision of metal detection technology, for purposes of consumer, humanitarian, security and military use, with services of manufacturing, distribution and customer service in Australia, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and America, and have been at the forefront in the development of technology and innovation. In 1997 it received the ISO 9001 certification, for its quality standards in production, and its products have received numerous awards in Australia and in other countries.
Among the products offered by the brand are gold and other buried metals, underwater, mine, handheld, and other accessories to facilitate the search task. As for its specialized detectors, these have been widely recognized among the most advanced products available for their application, due to the high sensitivity, reliability and safety of their measurements. The X-Terra series has positioned itself at the forefront among multipurpose detectors.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How do metal detectors work and which one to buy?
Most metal detectors work through magnetic coils, depending on the size of these the detection field will be larger or smaller. In addition, it should be noted that these products generate a magnetic field that distorts when approaching a certain metal.
Some coils are special to detect gold, bronze, silver, aluminum, among other materials. There are even multifunctional detectors, which can be programmed depending on the type of metal you want to find, for example, a gold jewel that you have lost.
On the other hand, we mentioned that there are models of detectors that have screens, in them you can observe the data of your search. In addition, it is possible that the product that you acquire will bring a headphone output, so that you will hear the beeps and you will not have to be looking at the screen often.
In addition to this, it is important to know that if you are looking for very small pieces of metal, it is best to buy a detector with a small coil, as this is more sensitive for this type of objects. On the other hand, if you want to find larger metals, we recommend a metal detector with a much wider coil.
Q2: How does a metal detector for Android work?
First of all, we mentioned that not all Android devices are capable of detecting metals, as some do not have a built-in magnetic sensor. However, some tablets and phones, whether high-end, medium or low, have this sensor. If your phone has it, you must enter the Play Store, download and install the Metal Detector application and then open it.
Its operation is simple, you only approach the device to the surface where you are looking for metal, for example, the floor or a table. When you pass your equipment over the metal you are looking for, the application will emit a sound. Basically, it works through a small magnetic field, since the sensors of this type of devices are compact, so you will not be able to detect very large pieces of metal.
On the other hand, it should be noted that, to know if your phone or tablet has a magnetic sensor, you just have to install the application mentioned above and open it. If the application does not work, it's because your device does not have that sensor.
Q3: I have a metal detector, is it possible to find buried treasures with it?
Yes it is possible, but not all metal detectors have this function, since each plate or magnetic coil has its own configuration or compatibility. Of course, we must also take into account that the metal detectors that bring this functionality must be configured to detect them, in addition, the most advisable thing is that the coils are large, since these are the sensors.
The smaller they are, the less depth they will reach and vice versa. This means that not all these devices can detect treasures that are buried more than 5 meters away. Also, we mentioned that you must acquire a product capable of detecting precious metals such as gold, silver and bronze, as these are very common in ancient treasure trunks, especially the first of them.
Q4: Gold and silver detector Is there a model that detects both materials?
Yes, there are some of these devices that detect both gold and silver, however, you may have to configure them. To do this last, there are detectors that fulfill both functions separately, so you will have to look first for gold and then for silver.
On the other hand, different models can be configured to detect gold and silver at the same time, so you will find several options in the market. We recommend that you review these features before purchasing one or another metal detector.
Q5: Does the metal detector arc negatively influence pregnancy?
No, the metal detector arches that are commonly used in stores, airports, hospitals or educational institutes are harmless for both the woman and the baby that is coming. This is a myth that many people are confused about nowadays, since they sometimes think that they transmit radiation, but X-rays are the ones that negatively affect the baby and the pregnant woman.
When speaking of an arc of these we refer to low frequency magnetic fields, only to detect metals, that is, they do not provide ionizing radiation. In addition to that, we mentioned that going through these teams only takes one or two seconds by a lot, which provides greater security to pregnant women.