Best metal detector UK

Which is the best metal detector in 2024?

VIEW OFFER
Ad We earn commissions from purchases you make » read more

Best of 2024: Find the right metal detector in the UK

Looking to find the best metal detector for your needs but are unsure where to begin? It’s not exactly easy to find a great metal detector, as the range of products available is quite diverse, so finding one suitable for a beginner is not the same as finding one for someone that has used it a few times. So, to help you find the best metal detectors possible, we have created a buying guide that covers all the information you need to know to find the right one


The 10 best metal detectors in the UK (November 2024)

The bestseller list compares metal detectors from multiple brands
Best choice TOP 1
Image of DR.ÖTEK MT-XR SET metal detector
DR.ÖTEK MT-XR SET
  • Versatility: Adjustable stem and sensitivity for users of different heights.
  • Display: Large LCD screen with backlight for easy reading in any light conditions.
  • Accuracy: Detects even tiny objects up to 25.4cm underground.
BUY NOW
TOP 2
Image of DR.ÖTEK MT-XE metal detector
DR.ÖTEK MT-XE
  • Waterproof: IP68 waterproof coil for underwater metal detection.
  • Accuracy: Advanced DSP chip ensures high precision and strong anti-interference.
  • Modes: 6 terrain-specific detection modes for versatile use.
BUY NOW
TOP 3
Image of NOKTA DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES 11000624 metal detector
NOKTA DETECTION TECHNOLOGIES 11000624
  • Accessories: Includes a comprehensive starter accessory package for all your needs.
  • Updates: Keep your detector current through USB firmware updates.
  • Waterproof: Ideal for underwater and low-visibility conditions with advanced lighting features.
BUY NOW
Offer TOP 4
Image of DeeAWai OG-GP006UK metal detector
DeeAWai OG-GP006UK
  • Waterproof: 8-inch search coil for effective detection in diverse ground conditions.
  • Design: Reliable, easy to use, lightweight, and adjustable for various heights.
  • Depth: Detects items buried deeper than 15cm, suitable for beginners and professionals.
BUY NOW
TOP 5
Image of DR.ÖTEK MT9s-Set metal detector
DR.ÖTEK MT9s-Set
  • Education: Enhances science learning for children and adults.
  • Usability: Adjustable stem for comfortable handling.
  • Durability: Waterproof coil for use in shallow waters.
BUY NOW
TOP 6
Image of Minelab X-Terra metal detector
Minelab X-Terra
  • Portability: Lightweight, rugged, and compact construction ensures comfort and durability.
  • Accuracy: Switch between four hunting shortcuts for specific treasure types.
  • Usability: Intuitive operation streamlines your metal detecting journey.
BUY NOW
TOP 7
Image of SUNPOW OTMD07 metal detector
SUNPOW OTMD07
  • Sensitivity: Upgraded DSP chip enhances sensitivity and accuracy in detection.
  • Modes: Includes 9 metal samples and 5 detection modes for versatile searching.
  • Display: Easily read 9 metal types, detection values, modes, and volume on an HD LCD.
BUY NOW
TOP 8
Image of Minelab 3228-0200 metal detector
Minelab 3228-0200
  • Versatility: Equipped with 10 Search Modes for all terrain types, including beach and inland.
  • Identification: Provides 2D target ID map and rich audio options for precise target identification.
  • Technology: Multi-IQ+ offers 50% more power than traditional models.
BUY NOW
TOP 9
Image of SUNPOW Metal Detector 1083UK metal detector
SUNPOW Metal Detector 1083UK
  • Versatility: Offers 5 modes for various metal detection needs.
  • Accuracy: Advanced chip technology ensures precise metal detection.
  • Depth: Detects metal up to 10" deep for better finds.
BUY NOW
TOP 10
Image of Libershine WY-TCQ-UK metal detector
Libershine WY-TCQ-UK
  • Precision: Pinpoints smaller metal targets quickly and accurately.
  • Sensitivity: Detects metals from all angles with high sensitivity.
  • Lightweight: Weighs only 141g, a third of traditional metal detectors.
BUY NOW
Affiliate Disclosure

Affiliate link: We are a participant of the Amazon Associates Program. If you buy a product through this link we might earn a small commission from Amazon at no extra charge for you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.


Table of contents
  1. Read the definitive metal detector buying guide
  2. View the metal detector picks and see how they rank in the top list

metal detector buying guide

Do you want to buy a good metal detector? This is all you need to know.

A short explanation: What are metal detectors?

Image of metal detectors

A metal detector is an electronic device used to find metal objects, usually buried beneath the ground although many are used to find metal inclusions hidden inside other objects. The device features a sensor that passes over the ground and sends a signal to the user when it passes over a metal object, with the best metal detectors offering accurate location data as well.

What are the benefits of good metal detectors?

The possibility of finding treasure is a huge appeal to many people, making metal detectors a popular buy. Not only can it be incredibly exciting to explore with a metal detector, it can be profitable, as there are countless stories of people making amazing finds. For example, the person that bought the best metal detector for their budget could find buried treasure in their local area, making it an incredibly worthwhile investment. Metal detectors can find all kinds of buried objects, such as coins, artifacts, and jewelry, any of which could make you rich.

How to choose the best metal detector in 2024?

Additional image of metal detector

Choosing the best metal detector can be difficult for a beginner, so here are some things to look out for in a good detector:

  • Operating Frequency: The operating frequency refers to how frequently the metal detector can send signals and locate metals, typically ranging from 3kHz to 100 kHz. Low frequencies are great for finding high quality and valuable metals buries deep underground. High frequencies tend to the opposite, being better are finding less valuable and smaller metals that are far shallower. Most detectors use different frequencies to provide a versatile performance, but it’s a good idea to choose one with a frequency the best matches the type of metals you are looking for.
  • Target ID: This is a feature that provides a bunch of data on anything you locate, such as the type of metal, depth, and size. This is displayed on a small LCD screen and is a very handy feature many prefer to have, as it provides more information about anything you locate, saving you time digging around for junk metals.
  • Sensitivity: The best metal detectors feature a high level of sensitivity that can be easily adjusted for different ground conditions, thus reducing the likelihood of a false signal. This is important because the further under the ground the metal is the weaker the signal it emits, so you need a good range of sensitivity for a more accurate response. VLF technology sends out a signal with each electromagnetic field for a 2-fold response, which is how true the signal and how much energy the response. So, the sensitivity works by seeing the conductive and magnetic properties of the metal and this needs to be correctly balanced to give an accurate response from the metal detector.

Which types of metal detectors are available to buy in the UK?

Some of the most popular types of metal detectors that you can currently buy include:

  • Very Low Frequency (VLF) Metal Detectors: Most metal detectors sold today are of this type and it works well for detecting different metals, assuming metal is hiding in the ground. As a result, it’s the best metal detector for beginners, not being too challenging to understand how to get the best out of it.
  • Pulse Induction Metal Detectors: This type of metal detector is much better for people that are more experienced, and while it can be more expensive it’s often regarded as the best metal detector. It is known for providing higher quality information, as it uses a single coil that acts as both transmitter and receiver.
  • Beat Frequency Oscillators (BFO) Metal Detectors: This is more of a basic type of metal detector but still has its uses, being great for the novices out there. It uses two coils to send and receive information, and it the most affordable metal detector out there.
…are you ready for the best picks of 2024?

VIEW THE TOP 10 LIST →