The best metal detectors of 2024: Expert recommended

Minelab Equinox 800 tech specs: Detection depth: Up to 18 inches | Weight: 2.96 pounds | Adjustable length: 47 to 57 inches | Power source: Rechargeable battery | Coil size: 11 inches | Waterproof: Submersible up to 10 feet

If you’re a serious metal-detecting hobbyist or a search and salvage professional, the Minelab Equinox 800 is an almost perfect option. It’s a high-end, exceptionally precise metal detector that can sense objects buried up to 18 inches underground so you can hunt for everything from coins and rings to scrap iron, aluminum, and even meteorites. The entire unit is waterproof and can be submerged in water up to 10 feet deep, so you can search rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans for relics. 

With its four different detection modes, you can accurately search terrains like sandy dunes and beaches, grassy fields, and rocky hills. You can also set up eight different detection profiles for faster gold, silver, and iron identification or for multiple users of the same unit. It’s powered by an integrated, rechargeable battery that can give you up to 12 hours of use, so you can explore all day worry-free. The Equinox 800 also comes with a pair of headphones for more accurate and distraction-free listening to differentiate between tones for gold, silver, brass, and iron or steel. 

Verified reviews from both Amazon and Walmart both praise the accuracy of the Equinox 800, many showing off photos of some pretty cool finds like coins, jewelry, and even a few die-cast metal toys.