Best Handheld Metal Detectors of 2026
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Handheld metal detectors are portable devices that can detect metal objects in various settings. They are commonly used in security and law enforcement to scan individuals for weapons, but they can also be used for treasure hunting, archaeology, and construction. These detectors typically emit an audible tone or vibration when metal is detected, and some models even display the type and depth of the metal. Handheld metal detectors are lightweight, easy to use, and can be powered by batteries or rechargeable batteries. They are a useful tool for anyone who needs to locate metal objects quickly and efficiently.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 7 Handheld Metal Detectors
Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is a lightweight, battery-powered device that helps you quickly and precisely locate metal objects in walls, sand, grass, or soil. It features a single button operation, LED light and sound alarm, and partial waterproof design. It is perfect for finding coins, gold, silver, relics, and jewelry.
JKUSS Metal Detector Pinpointer with LCD
The JKUSS Pinpointer Metal Detector is designed to make your treasure hunting easier and more efficient. Its lightweight, ergonomic design with a secure grip means you can comfortably carry and use it anywhere, whether at home or outdoors. The simple one-button operation paired with an LCD screen and LED light helps you quickly identify metal objects, even in low light. You’ll appreciate the 360° scanning ability and 3.5-inch detection depth, allowing you to find targets faster over larger areas. Plus, its waterproof probe lets you search underwater up to 50 feet deep, so you’re ready for adventures in lakes, rivers, or wet conditions without worry.
SUNPOW OTMD12 Metal Detector Pinpointer
The SUNPOW Pinpointer Wand is designed for efficient metal detection, featuring 360° scanning and a 3.5-inch depth capability to help you locate metals with precision. Its user-friendly design allows you to operate it easily with a single button, while sound and vibration alerts guide you straight to your target. The wand is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for on-the-go adventures. Additionally, its IP68 waterproof rating means you can explore various environments, from beaches to grassy fields, without worry.
SUNPOW NXGD02 Rechargeable Metal Detector Pinpointer
The SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer is an ideal tool for anyone who loves treasure hunting. It comes with a powerful 800mAh rechargeable battery that can last up to 15 hours, so you can enjoy long outdoor sessions without worrying about running out of power. The device is fully waterproof up to 10 feet, making it perfect for use in rivers, beaches, or wetlands, and its shock-resistant design ensures it can handle rough conditions. With high sensitivity, it detects metal objects up to 6 inches away, and its simple one-button operation makes it easy for beginners and kids to use. This pinpointer offers convenience and reliability for all your metal detecting adventures.
DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer
The DR.ÖTEK Pinpointer is a metal detector wand that provides accurate and easy detection with exclusive interference cancellation, intuitive LCD screen, 3 alert modes, and practical multifunction design. The One-Key Interference Cancelling Button helps to eliminate false signals and save your digging time. The easy-to-read LCD screen displays the signal strength of the target, allowing you to find your targets with ease and precision. With a 3.15" detection distance and 360° omnidirectional detection probe, the metal detecting pinpointer provides precise and efficient detection. The 3 switchable detection alert modes allow you to customize your detection preferences. The scale design helps you grasp the depth of the target, and the scraper helps remove the dirt on the detected objects, saving you from buying extra accessories. The DR.ÖTEK Pinpointer is a great tool for every metal detecting enthusiast.
SUNPOW Waterproof Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults & Kids
The SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer is a fully waterproof handheld wand with 360-degree detection sensitivity, capable of locating small targets accurately and quickly, even up to 4.5 inches underground. It offers 4 upgrade signals to alert the user of metal detected, with LED light, beep beep, vibration, and signal strength displayed on the LCD screen. It has 3 easy operation modes, sound and vibration, sound only, and vibration only, and features an upgraded DSP chip for improved search range and sensitivity, making it highly efficient in detecting various metals with strong anti-interference. Suitable for use in any weather and location.
JKUSS Rechargeable Handheld Metal Detector Wand
The JKUSS Metal Detector Wand is designed to quickly find small hidden metals like nails, screws, weapons, and jewelry, making it perfect for security checks or woodworking projects. You can select from three alert modes—sound, vibration, or both—so you get clear notifications whether you're in a noisy area or need silent alerts. Its adjustable sensitivity lets you focus on larger objects, ignoring small items like keys or coins, which helps you scan more accurately in busy places. Plus, it has a rechargeable battery with USB charging, so you won’t have to worry about constantly buying new batteries and can enjoy long-lasting use with quick recharges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How deep do handheld metal detectors go?
The depth that a handheld metal detector can effectively detect an object is approximately the same as the distance of the detector's coil size. For example, a detector with an 8" coil can detect a small coin-sized object at a depth of around 8 inches, give or take.
2. What are the disadvantages of handheld metal detectors?
Handheld metal detectors have a few disadvantages. They can sometimes give false alarms if a person is carrying a metal object like a phone, watch, or toy, causing unnecessary panic. They may also interfere with personal devices such as magnetic recording gadgets like CDs or cassettes.
3. Are handheld metal detectors any good?
Yes, handheld metal detectors and pinpointers are a good choice. They are easy to use, portable, and lightweight. They can be more efficient at identifying targets compared to heavier metal detecting devices. Additionally, you can combine a pinpointer with your regular metal detector for enhanced accuracy.
4. How deep can a cheap metal detector detect?
As a general rule, a budget metal detector can detect objects up to approximately 6 inches deep. A good mid-range detector can detect objects up to about 10-12 inches deep, while a high-end hobby detector can detect objects up to around 16 inches deep.
5. What is better than a metal detector?
If you need to locate objects that are deeper than what a metal detector can reach, magnetic locators are a better option. Magnetic locators can cover a broader range from the tip of the device to the object you're trying to locate, making them more functional than metal detectors.
During our handheld metal detector research, we found 24 handheld metal detector products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 91,976 customer reviews through our big data system to write the handheld metal detectors list. We found that most customers choose handheld metal detectors with an average price of $73.61.
The handheld metal detectors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of handheld metal detectors, including Dmyond, JKUSS, SUNPOW. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 113 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Bryan Hicks is a professional gardener and a writer who lives in North Texas with his family and his dog. Bryan has spent more than half of his life surrounded by garden products. He has extensive experience in garden makeovers and maintenance and lawn care. His areas of expertise include outdoor decoration, gardening and garden design.