Home

Best Metal Detectors of 2026: 10 Compared

Treasure hunting lives or dies on the gear in your hands, and the gap between a toy that beeps at bottle caps and a coil that reads a buried ring at depth is wider than most first-time buyers expect. We lined up ten metal detectors and scored each on what actually changes a day in the field: coil size, waterproof rating, how many search modes you get, and the weight you carry for hours. The right choice is less about the biggest spec sheet and more about where you swing.

Metal detecting rewards patience, but the detector itself sets the ceiling on what you can find. Coil size and depth rating decide whether a coin sitting six inches down even registers; search modes decide whether you dig it or walk past the nail next to it. Across these ten picks the differences are real and measurable: coils range from a compact 6.5-inch unit built for kids up to a 12-inch waterproof search coil, and waterproof ratings span IP67 to IP68, which is what lets some of these touch wet sand and shallow water while others stay on dry ground. To assemble this guide we pulled current Amazon specifications, images, and pricing for the ten most relevant metal detectors, then scored each on detection capability, build and weight, included accessories, and how cleanly its feature set matches a defined buyer. The ranking favors detectors that do the fundamentals well for the money rather than the ones with the longest marketing copy. Below you get the quick verdict, a model-by-model breakdown, and an honest read on where each one fits.

The short version: The Sakobs Metal Detector earns our top spot, pairing an 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil with 12.8-inch deep search, 9 target types, and a full treasure-hunting kit at just 2.7 pounds. For shoppers who want capable detection without the outlay, the Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer is the best value, a 0.55-pound handheld wand with 360-degree detection.

How to use this guide: In a hurry? The Quick Verdict below names the top pick in seconds. Want to compare? The full comparison table and charts line up all 10 metal detectors side by side. For the details, every model has a full review with key features, honest pros and cons, and who it is best for.
  • The Sakobs Metal Detector tops the list with an 11-inch IP68 DD coil, 12.8-inch deep search, 9 target types, and 4 search modes at 2.7 pounds.
  • The Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer is the lightest pick at 0.55 pounds, with 360-degree detection and a simple 2-mode, single-button design.
  • Most models carry an IP68 waterproof search coil for beach and shallow-water use; the Ommo uses an IP67 coil and is built for kids.
  • The SuperEye Metal Detector leads on mode count with 6 modes plus an intelligent Norm mode for beginners and 8-level sensitivity.
  • Coils span 6.5 to 12 inches and weights run from 0.55 to 5.47 pounds, so terrain and how long you swing should drive the choice.

Our Top 3 Picks

Editor's Choice
Sakobs Metal Detector
1Sakobs Metal Detector
  • 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil
  • 12.8-inch deep search performance
  • 9 target types and 4 search modes
  • Foldable and just 2.7 pounds
  • Includes backpack, headphones, and digging tool
Best Value
Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector
2Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector
  • 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 5 modes including All-Metal, Disc, and Memory
  • Screw-less cam-lock assembly in seconds
  • Includes 2 batteries for instant use
  • LCD with backlight
Premium Pick
Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector
3Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector
  • Upgraded DSP chip for higher accuracy
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 12-inch deep detection
  • 60-inch adjustable length
  • 4 modes and 9 metal types
Buyer Reports is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost to you. This never affects our rankings.

Full Comparison — All 10 Metal Detectors

Our RankingPrice: Low to HighPrice: High to Low
ImageProductFeaturesPrice
Editor's Choice
Sakobs Metal Detector

1Sakobs Metal Detector

  • 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil
  • 12.8-inch deep search performance
  • 9 target types and 4 search modes
  • Foldable and just 2.7 pounds
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Best Value
Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector

2Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector

  • 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 5 modes including All-Metal, Disc, and Memory
  • Screw-less cam-lock assembly in seconds
  • Includes 2 batteries for instant use
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Premium Pick
Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector

3Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector

  • Upgraded DSP chip for higher accuracy
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 12-inch deep detection
  • 60-inch adjustable length
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Gbnryg Metal Detector

4Gbnryg Metal Detector

  • 5 versatile detection modes
  • 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • Adjusts up to 52 inches for adults and kids
  • Large backlit display with fast installation
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Ommo Metal Detector

5Ommo Metal Detector

  • Rechargeable built-in lithium battery with Type-C charging
  • Fun animated puppy LCD display
  • 6.5-inch IP67 waterproof search coil
  • Light 1.8-pound, adjustable build
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
HawkSeek Metal Detector

6HawkSeek Metal Detector

  • 2X larger backlit color LCD
  • 10-inch Double-D IP68 waterproof coil
  • New advanced DSP chip
  • 5 modes including All-Metal and Disc
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer

7Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer

  • Just 0.55 pounds and pocketable
  • 360-degree side-scan detection
  • Single-button operation
  • Sound plus vibration alerts
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
SuperEye Metal Detector

8SuperEye Metal Detector

  • 6 modes with an intelligent Norm mode for beginners
  • 8-level sensitivity and smart target ID
  • Next-gen upgraded DSP chip
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
ikiu 2026 Latest Metal Detector

9ikiu 2026 Latest Metal Detector

  • Updated DSP chip
  • Detects metals up to 10 inches deep
  • Large LCD with powerful backlight
  • IP68 waterproof search coil
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review
Gddream Metal Detector

10Gddream Metal Detector

  • 4 professional detection modes
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil
  • New advanced DSP chip
  • Shaft adjusts from 27.5 to 50 inches with adjustable armrest
Check Price on Amazon
Read Full Review

How They Compare

Top picks — strengths at a glance

Brands compared

All 10, Reviewed

Editor's Choice
Sakobs Metal Detector

1 Sakobs Metal Detector

This is the detector we'd hand most newcomers and weekend hunters alike. The Sakobs reaches with a 12.8-inch deep search and an 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil, reads targets on a backlit LCD with target ID, and sorts finds across 9 target types and 4 search modes. It earns the number-one spot for matching real depth and waterproofing to a foldable 2.7-pound build and a complete kit.

Strength
  • 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil
  • 12.8-inch deep search performance
  • 9 target types and 4 search modes
  • Foldable and just 2.7 pounds
Weakness
  • Fewer search modes than the 5- and 6-mode picks here
Best Value
Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector

2 Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector

Built for hunters who want range and quick filtering, the Gbnryg Professional runs a 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil with an LCD backlight and 5 detection modes, including All-Metal, Disc, and Memory. Its collapsible cam-lock, screw-less head assembles in seconds, and the kit arrives with 2 batteries for instant use. At 2.8 pounds it lands as a strong value runner-up.

Strength
  • 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 5 modes including All-Metal, Disc, and Memory
  • Screw-less cam-lock assembly in seconds
  • Includes 2 batteries for instant use
Weakness
  • Heavier coil setup than the compact Ommo and Sunpow picks
Premium Pick
Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector

3 Ulhund Upgraded Metal Detector

The Ulhund leans into reach and accuracy, pairing an upgraded DSP chip with a 10-inch IP68 waterproof search coil rated to 12-inch deep detection. A 60-inch adjustable length and large backlit LCD make it friendly for beginners and taller users, and it sorts 9 kinds of metals across 4 modes. It ranks here as a capable premium option for buyers who prioritize depth and fit.

Strength
  • Upgraded DSP chip for higher accuracy
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • 12-inch deep detection
  • 60-inch adjustable length
Weakness
  • Listed weight of about 5.47 pounds is the heaviest here
  • Fewer modes than the 5- and 6-mode picks
Gbnryg Metal Detector

4 Gbnryg Metal Detector

Family hunters get flexibility here. This Gbnryg detector runs 5 optimized modes to locate coins, relics, jewelry, and gold, with a 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil that covers more ground per sweep. The shaft adjusts up to 52 inches for adults and kids, and the package adds headphones, a foldable digging tool, and a storage bag. A solid all-rounder at 2.8 pounds.

Strength
  • 5 versatile detection modes
  • 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil
  • Adjusts up to 52 inches for adults and kids
  • Large backlit display with fast installation
Weakness
  • Lacks the 12.8-inch deep search depth of the top pick
Ommo Metal Detector

5 Ommo Metal Detector

Made for kids, the Ommo swaps intimidating menus for a funny puppy LCD display and a featherlight 1.8-pound frame. It charges over Type-C via a built-in lithium battery, uses a 6.5-inch IP67 waterproof search coil for beach and sand, and adjusts from 28.3 inches. Harmless ABS construction installs in three steps, which is why it lands as the standout pick for children.

Strength
  • Rechargeable built-in lithium battery with Type-C charging
  • Fun animated puppy LCD display
  • 6.5-inch IP67 waterproof search coil
  • Light 1.8-pound, adjustable build
Weakness
  • Smaller 6.5-inch coil than the adult detectors here
  • IP67 coil rather than the IP68 rating on most picks
HawkSeek Metal Detector

6 HawkSeek Metal Detector

Readability is the headline here. The HawkSeek runs a 2X larger backlit color LCD driven by PolySpectra Sense, plus a 10-inch Double-D IP68 waterproof coil and a new advanced DSP chip. Five modes including All-Metal and Disc, fully sealed silicone buttons, and a 21.2-to-51.9-inch shaft round it out. It ranks as a premium pick for hunters who want a vivid display.

Strength
  • 2X larger backlit color LCD
  • 10-inch Double-D IP68 waterproof coil
  • New advanced DSP chip
  • 5 modes including All-Metal and Disc
Weakness
  • Shallower stated reach than the top pick's 12.8-inch search
Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer

7 Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer

This is the companion tool that saves you from over-digging. The Sunpow Pinpointer weighs just 0.55 pounds and uses 360-degree side-scan detection with a 3.5-inch detection range, single-button operation, and sound-plus-vibration alerts. Its IP68 waterproof tip survives wet work. As the value pick, it's an easy add for adults and kids who want to zero in on a target fast.

Strength
  • Just 0.55 pounds and pocketable
  • 360-degree side-scan detection
  • Single-button operation
  • Sound plus vibration alerts
Weakness
  • Handheld wand rather than a full ground-search detector
  • 3.5-inch detection range is short by design
SuperEye Metal Detector

8 SuperEye Metal Detector

The SuperEye is the mode king of this group, offering 6 modes anchored by an intelligent Norm mode aimed squarely at beginners. It adds 8-level sensitivity, smart target ID, a next-gen upgraded DSP chip, and a 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil under a larger backlit LCD. It ranks here for buyers who want the most control and an easy on-ramp, even at a heftier 4.5 pounds.

Strength
  • 6 modes with an intelligent Norm mode for beginners
  • 8-level sensitivity and smart target ID
  • Next-gen upgraded DSP chip
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil
Weakness
  • Listed at about 4.5 pounds, heavier than most picks here
ikiu 2026 Latest Metal Detector

9 ikiu 2026 Latest Metal Detector

Lightweight and straightforward, the ikiu 2026 model uses an updated DSP chip and a waterproof search coil that detects metals up to 10 inches deep, covering gold, silver, coins, and jewelry. A big, powerful-backlit LCD keeps targets readable day or night, and its IP68 coil suits beach, river, and rainy outings. It assembles in under a minute, landing as a portable budget choice.

Strength
  • Updated DSP chip
  • Detects metals up to 10 inches deep
  • Large LCD with powerful backlight
  • IP68 waterproof search coil
Weakness
  • Fewer detailed modes called out than the 5- and 6-mode picks
  • Shallower depth than the 12.8-inch top pick
Gddream Metal Detector

10 Gddream Metal Detector

The Gddream keeps things accessible with 4 professional modes starting at All-Metal, a large backlit LCD, and a new advanced DSP chip. Its 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil works in shallow water, wet grass, and beach sand, while the telescopic shaft runs 27.5 to 50 inches with an adjustable armrest. Tool-free assembly and a complete starter kit make it a tidy budget option, rounding out our ten.

Strength
  • 4 professional detection modes
  • 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil
  • New advanced DSP chip
  • Shaft adjusts from 27.5 to 50 inches with adjustable armrest
Weakness
  • 4 modes, fewer than the 5- and 6-mode detectors here
  • Lacks the deep-search depth rating of the top picks

8 Things to Consider Before Buying Metal Detectors

Before you commit, line up a few things that separate a frustrating afternoon from a productive one. Coil size and depth set your reach, the waterproof rating governs where you can hunt, and the number of search modes determines how well you filter trash from treasure. Match those to your terrain and how long you plan to swing, then weigh them against price.

Coil size and search depth
A bigger coil sweeps more ground per pass and generally reaches deeper. The Sakobs pairs an 11-inch DD coil with 12.8-inch deep search, while the Ommo uses a compact 6.5-inch coil sized for kids. Larger coils cover open beaches faster; smaller ones thread tighter spots and lighter hands.
Waterproof rating and where you hunt
Most detectors here carry an IP68 waterproof search coil, which is what lets the Sakobs, Gbnryg, Ulhund, HawkSeek, SuperEye, ikiu, and Gddream work beaches, shallow water, and wet grass. The Ommo uses an IP67 coil. Confirm the rating covers the conditions you actually hunt before you buy.
Search modes and target discrimination
More modes mean finer control over what you dig. The SuperEye offers 6 modes including an intelligent Norm mode for beginners, the Gbnryg and HawkSeek run 5 modes such as All-Metal and Disc, and the Ulhund and Gddream use 4. All-Metal finds everything; Disc filters out unwanted metals so you skip the junk.
Weight and adjustable length
You feel every ounce after an hour of swinging. The Sunpow Pinpointer comes in at 0.55 pounds, the Sakobs at 2.7 pounds, while the SuperEye lists 4.5 pounds. Adjustable shafts matter too: the HawkSeek extends from 21.2 to 51.9 inches and the Gddream from 27.5 to 50 inches, so the rig fits teens and adults alike.
Display and target ID
A readable screen turns guesswork into decisions. The Sakobs shows a backlit LCD target ID, the HawkSeek runs a 2X larger backlit color LCD, and the SuperEye adds smart target ID with 8-level sensitivity. A clear, backlit display keeps you reading targets in daylight or low light without squinting.
Detection chip and accuracy
The processing chip shapes how cleanly a detector separates real targets from interference. Several picks here, including the Ulhund, HawkSeek, ikiu, SuperEye, and Gddream, run an advanced DSP chip, and the Sakobs uses an upgraded DSP for its deep-search performance. A stronger chip generally means steadier target IDs and fewer false signals.
Power source and runtime
How a detector keeps the lights on affects ongoing cost and convenience. The Ommo uses a rechargeable built-in lithium battery with Type-C USB charging, while the Gbnryg Professional ships with 2 free batteries for instant use. Rechargeable suits frequent hunters; standard batteries are easy to swap in the field when they fade.
Included accessories and assembly
A complete kit gets you hunting the day it arrives. The Sakobs bundles a carrying backpack, headphones, and a digging tool, and the Gbnryg rank-four pick adds headphones, a foldable digging tool, and a storage bag. Tool-free, screw-less assembly on detectors like the Gddream and Gbnryg means setup in under a minute.

Our Final Verdict

If you want one detector to cover most ground, the Sakobs Metal Detector is our top pick: an 11-inch IP68 DD coil, 12.8-inch deep search, 9 target types, and a full kit, all at 2.7 pounds. The Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer is the value standout, a featherweight wand with 360-degree detection that pins down exactly where a buried target sits. Shoppers chasing the most modes and beginner-friendly help should look at the SuperEye Metal Detector, which leans on its Norm mode and 6 modes total. No single detector here wins on every axis, so anchor your pick to your terrain and how far down you expect to dig.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best metal detector overall?

The Sakobs Metal Detector is our top pick of the ten we compared. It combines an 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil, 12.8-inch deep search, 9 target types, and 4 search modes, all in a foldable 2.7-pound frame with a backpack, headphones, and digging tool included.

Which metal detector is best on a tight budget?

The Sunpow Metal Detector Pinpointer is the value pick. At 0.55 pounds it works as a handheld pinpointing wand with 360-degree detection, an IP68 waterproof tip, single-button operation, and sound-plus-vibration alerts, making it an easy add for adults and kids alike.

Can these metal detectors be used at the beach or in water?

Yes, most can handle wet conditions. The Sakobs, Gbnryg, Ulhund, HawkSeek, SuperEye, ikiu, and Gddream all use an IP68 waterproof search coil suited to beaches, wet sand, and shallow water. The Ommo uses an IP67 coil. Match the rating to your terrain before buying.

What do the search modes on a metal detector actually do?

Search modes control how the detector filters targets. All-Metal mode flags everything underground, while Disc mode screens out unwanted metals so you skip the junk. The SuperEye offers 6 modes, the Gbnryg Professional and HawkSeek run 5, and the Ulhund and Gddream use 4.

Is there a metal detector here for kids?

The Ommo Metal Detector is built for children. It uses a rechargeable Type-C lithium battery, a funny puppy LCD display, a 6.5-inch IP67 waterproof search coil, and an adjustable stem starting at 28.3 inches, with kid-friendly ABS construction that installs in a few steps.

How much does weight matter when choosing a metal detector?

It matters a lot over a long hunt. Lighter rigs reduce arm fatigue, which is why the 0.55-pound Sunpow Pinpointer and the 1.8-pound Ommo are easy on the hands. The Sakobs sits at 2.7 pounds, while heavier picks like the SuperEye list 4.5 pounds, so factor in how long you plan to swing.

Related Guides