5 Best Metal Detectors Under $300
5 Best Metal Detectors Under $300
5 (100%) 3 vote[s]
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector
Brand Bounty Hunter
Color Gold
Power Source Battery Powered
Garrett Ace 250 Metal Detector
Brand Garrett
Material Plastic
Power Source Battery Powered
Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector
Brand Fisher
Color Black
Power Source Batteries
13" Professional Metal Detector for Adults
Brand VVinRC
Batteries Required? Yes
Power Source Battery Powered
Bounty Hunter LSTAR Land
Professional, 4-Mode Operation
4-Level Iron Discrimination
8" Interchangeable, Waterproof

Choose the Best Metal Detector Under $300е

Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Metal Detectors Under $300

30 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!

46.67% of users selected Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector, 10% selected Garrett Ace 250 Metal Detector, 33.33% selected Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector, 6.67% selected 13" Professional Metal Detector for Adults and 3.33% selected Bounty Hunter LSTAR Land. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

Now that you have a gist of the metal detectors, let’s discuss the pros and cons of the top metal detectors under $300.

Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector

Attention all treasure hunters: It’s time to start your hunt with the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector! This amazing piece of technology is an incredible value for a price you won’t believe.

It’s packed with features including a headphone jack, trash elimination control and top-notch discrimination capabilities that guarantee great accuracy in finding hidden objects. With this device, you’ll be able to listen in as it locates coins and precious metals deep below the soil. An accuracy is also something you can depend on, as the Gold Digger’s detection range is up to 8 inches deep. And if you’re looking for a metal detector that won’t break the bank, this one definitely fits the bill. Get ready to dig up some serious buried treasure! So get your hands on the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector today and start uncovering amazing finds in no time!

However, there are factors you want to consider. This metal detector has its flaws and won’t always give perfect performance. The gold digger’s trash eliminator can be unreliable and unpredictable, preventing it from successfully locating smaller items – or even platinum! In addition, it has limited control settings and a single sound for all objects it locates so you won’t be able to differentiate between junk and valuables. As such, the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector should only be used by experienced hunters who know exactly what they’re looking for.

Pros
  • Features a headphone jack;
  • Comes with trash elimination control;
  • Incredible discrimination capability;
  • Great accuracy;
  • Good value for a price;

Cons
  • Trash eliminator performance is unreliable;
  • May not detect smaller items;
  • Can’t detect platinum;
  • Limited controls;
  • A single detection sound for anything;


Garrett ACE 250 Metal Detector with Submersible Search Coil

Are you looking for an easy-to-use metal detector that comes with a full range of features? Look no further than the Garrett ACE 250 Metal Detector with Submersible Search Coil.

This metal detector is perfect for beginners and offers great sensitivity control, along with an electronic pinpoint feature to help you recover targets quickly and easily.

The easy set-up process means anyone can quickly start searching for hidden treasures directly after unboxing it, while the adjustable Discrimination Mode lets you filter out irrelevant items. Even in wet weather and underwater conditions, this metal detector will perform with superior results. With the 11″ x 7″ interchangeable coil, it’s easy to find even heavily buried jewelry or coins in any terrain. Plus, the ACE 250 Metal Detector has distinct audio tones that vary based on target types so you can immediately identify whether something of interest is nearby.

Although this detector has its good points, it’s not perfect. For one, this metal detector has subpar quality overall and can produce false readings. The screen may randomly flash which makes it confusing to use. With the Garrett ACE 250, there’s no guarantee that it will deliver the results you need. It may be cheap, but when it comes to metal detecting accuracy and effectiveness are key.

Pros
  • Great sensitivity control;
  • Electronic pinpoint for easy target recovery;
  • Ideal for beginners;
  • Easy to set-up

Cons
  • Subpar quality overall;
  • Screen can randomly flash;
  • Can produce false readings;
  • Confusing to use;


Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector

When it comes to searching for buried treasure, the Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector is an essential tool for anyone looking to uncover valuable items! With its easy to use buttons and intuitive easy-to-read screen, this metal detector makes treasure hunting fun and simple.

Not only is it weather and water-resistant, but it is also amazingly lightweight! That way, you can go from mountainside to beach without feeling weighed down by your gear. Its 9 inch coil gives you the power to dig deeper and detect targets up to 8 inches below ground.

However, nothing is perfect and the Fisher F22 is no exception. With a weak signal strength and poor sensitivity, you may find yourself frustrated trying to locate precious metals. And since it’s not 100% waterproof, you’ll need to be extra careful if you want to use it in wet conditions. On top of that, the detection sound is so quiet and difficult to hear that it won’t be easy to distinguish between metal signals and false signals. Overall, this detector will do the job if you need something basic on a budget – but for more reliable results, try searching elsewhere!

Pros
  • Easy to use;
  • Easy to read screen;
  • Weather and water-resistant;
  • Lightweight;
  • 9 inch coil;

Cons
  • Weak signal strength;
  • Not 100% waterproof;
  • Poor sensitivity;
  • Detection sound is difficult to hear;


VVinRC Store 13″ Professional Metal Detector for Adults

Discover the VVinRC Store 13″ Professional Metal Detector and start finding buried treasures in your backyard! This affordable metal detector is perfect for both adults and children who want an easy-to-use tool for their treasure hunts. It has three detection modes – Discrimination, All-Metal and Pinpoint – to quickly identify the type of object beneath the surface.

The adjustable stem makes it comfortable to use for different heights and its waterproof coil lets you explore not only dry land but also lakes and rivers.

But while it will provide accurate readings, don’t expect too much in terms of comfort. It’s definitely on the heavy side, so carrying it around all day may quickly become tiresome. Additionally, keep in mind that its included bag might be too small for some accessories. In any case, VVinRC Store is here to keep you informed with the best quality metal detectors available – despite their niggling flaws.

Pros
  • Three detection modes;
  • Waterproof coil,
  • Adjustable stem;
  • Easy to use;
  • Affordable;

Cons
  • Heavy;
  • Can have false readings;
  • Included bag is too small;


Bounty Hunter LSTAR Land Star Metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter LSTAR Land Star Metal Detector is the perfect tool for any enthusiast wanting to explore their sense of adventure! With four mode operation, a waterproof search coil, and a target depth indicator, this metal detector is packed with features that are sure to make your next hunt worth it.

What’s more, the LSTAR Land Star metal detector is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to take along on your next outing – whether it be to the beach, local park or exploring historical sites! And you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank – this metal detector has an excellent price tag so you won’t have to worry about sacrificing functionality for affordability.

One thing we didn’t like about this device is its poor performance in All Metal Mode. As it is intended for beginner users, this mode should be well balanced in order to get the best results.

Pros
  • 4-Mode operation;
  • Waterproof search coil;
  • Features a target depth indicator;
  • Lightweight;
  • Good deal for the price;

Cons
  • Poor performance in All Metal Mode;


There are a lot of metal detectors on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we will discuss some of the best metal detectors under $300. We will answer some common questions about these detectors, and provide product reviews and useful tips. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced detectorist, we hope that this article will help you find the perfect detector for your needs!

What are Metal Detectors

Metal detectors are devices used to locate and identify metallic objects buried beneath the surface of soil, sand or water. These objects can include coins, jewelry, weapons, scrap metal, and other valuable items. Metal detectors use electromagnetic fields to detect the presence of metals in their vicinity. They typically consist of an electronic transmitter and receiver connected to a wand that is swept over the ground in search of metallic objects. The wand emits an alternating current which creates an electromagnetic field that interacts with any metallic objects nearby. If a metal object is detected, it will emit a signal back to the detector’s receiver, alerting the user that there is something below or near the surface. Depending on the model, this signal may be displayed as either an audible tone or a visual signal such as a flashing light.

Additionally, some metal detectors may even be equipped with a digital display which can show the type and size of the object that has been detected. Metal detectors are often used by hobbyists and treasure hunters to locate hidden objects of value, but they can also be used by law enforcement officials for security screenings or to detect hazardous material. They are also commonly employed in military operations for detecting landmines and other explosive ordnance.

What are Metal Detectors

Using a metal detector can lead to all sorts of exciting discoveries, depending on where you go and when. Whether you’re hunting for coins in your backyard or looking for buried treasure at the beach, there are plenty of things that can be found with a metal detector under $300.

With coin shooting, one of the most popular activities people use metal detectors for, it is possible to find lost coins from any era. Coins from all over the world dating back centuries can sometimes be discovered in fields or lawns hidden just beneath the surface. Even if you don’t find anything particularly old or valuable, coin shooting can still net some pocket change for fun!

It is also possible to find jewelry such as rings, watches and bracelets using a metal detector. These objects can often be found in shallow waters or near the shoreline at beaches. Other places such as parks, playgrounds and fields are also good spots to look for jewelry lost by others.

Relics from historical sites are another fun thing people use metal detectors for. If there is an old fort or battlefield nearby, it’s possible to uncover artifacts from centuries past that provide interesting insight into our shared history. Even if you don’t find anything particularly valuable, these relics provide a unique connection to the past that many find incredibly satisfying.

Finally, some people have used their metal detectors to uncover buried treasure! While this is more likely when searching in the Caribbean or deep in the jungle, it is possible to find hidden stashes of coins and other valuables with a metal detector under $300. [1]

Types of Metal Detectors

Metal detectors come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed to detect specific types of metals. Some metal detectors are general purpose and can detect most metallic objects such as coins, jewelry, and relics. Others are specifically designed to locate gold or other precious metals. Most metal detectors also have adjustable sensitivity settings which allow you to fine tune the detector’s performance for different types of terrain and conditions.

Most detectors can be divided into two types: VLF (very low frequency) or pulse induction.

VLF detectors

Very Low Frequency (VLF) metal detectors are the most popular type among hobbyists and entry-level users. Generally, they use two coils to detect metal objects. The transmitter coil sends out an electromagnetic current, which is then picked up by the receiver coil. Any interruption in this signal indicates that a metal object has been detected. VLF detectors are also notable for their adjustable settings and features such as discrimination, ground balance, and pinpointing mode.

The main advantage of a VLF detector is its versatility; it can detect coins, jewelry, relics, and even gold nuggets depending on the model you choose.
They are generally lightweight and easy to use so you don’t need prior experience with metal detecting.

PI Detectors

PI (Pulse Induction) detectors are a type of metal detector specifically developed for the purpose of detecting objects on land that have high levels of mineralization. Typically, they are used in areas with high concentrations of minerals like sand and salt water beaches. They work by sending out short “pulses” of electricity which generate a magnetic field when they come into contact with metal. This magnetic field is then detected by the detector’s sensors and an alert is sounded to indicate its presence.

PI detectors typically feature higher ground penetration than their VLF counterparts, allowing them to detect deeper targets at greater depths. At the same time, PI detectors also excel at distinguishing between targets made from different types of metals due to their increased sensitivity. This can be especially useful in areas where there are multiple types of objects to detect – like coins, jewelry, or relics.

Despite these advantages, PI detectors have some drawbacks as well. They tend to be more expensive than VLF detectors, and they also require a bit more practice to use effectively due to the technology involved. Additionally, they may not work well in areas with high amounts of garbage or debris since these objects may interfere with the detector’s ability to accurately detect metal.

Specialized metal detectors

Specialized metal detectors are designed to detect particular types of metal, such as gold or coins. They often have more features than an all-purpose detector and are most suitable for experienced users who know what they’re looking for.

Multifrequency metal detectors

Multifrequency metal detectors are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to work in a variety of ground mineralization conditions. When it comes to metal detecting, the soil’s “conductivity” can affect how well the machine does its job. Different metals have different levels of conductivity, which are affected by the ground minerals that surround them. A multifrequency detector is designed to cancel out any effects from these varying backgrounds, allowing it to detect more objects and provide more accurate readings.

Gold metal detectors

Gold metal detectors are designed to detect the presence of gold, whether it’s in a nugget or mixed in with other metals. Gold metal detectors use different types of technology than general-purpose metal detectors. Instead of using single-frequency VLF technology, they use a higher frequency. Higher frequency means better sensitivity to small targets like gold nuggets.

Gold metal detectors

Gold prospecting also requires specific features not found on most general-purpose models. Features like ground balance that allow you to tune out unwanted false readings from mineralized soils and adjustable discrimination to filter out trash and iron targets are essential for successful gold prospecting. Most gold metal detectors have these features built in, but some may require an additional accessory. [1]

Buyers Guide For Metal Detectors Under $300

Now that you have several picks to choose from, let’s get down to the details. When buying a metal detector under $300, you’ll want to consider several factors. In this section, we’ll go over key features, what to look for, and how to make sure you get the most from your purchase.

Weight

Weight is an important factor to consider when purchasing a metal detector, especially if you plan on using it for prolonged amounts of time. The weight of the detector can affect your comfort level and fatigue levels while searching for metals. If the metal detector is too heavy, it will tire out your arms sooner than usual and make it hard to maneuver in tight spots or on uneven terrain. On the other hand, if the metal detector is too light, it might not be able to detect coins or relics that are deeper in the ground as effectively as a heavier model.

The weight distribution also plays an important role – ideally, most of the weight should be closer to your body so that you don’t have to carry all of its weight with your arms. The detector should also have an ergonomic handle or strapping system so that you can carry it comfortably for long periods of time.

Finally, if you plan on taking your metal detector outdoors, consider the size and portability of the device.
A smaller model with a folding shaft is usually easier to transport than a large one with an unwieldy body.

Discrimination

The discrimination feature on a metal detector is one of the most important aspects to consider when buying a metal detector. Discrimination allows the user to ignore certain types of metals and only detect specific kinds, thus improving their target identification accuracy.

Discrimination provides users with different levels of control over what types of metals they want to detect. A basic level of discrimination might simply ignore rubbish and iron while more advanced detectors may come with adjustable settings that can be adjusted to pick up even more exotic metals such as silver or gold.

Generally speaking, the lower the frequency in a metal detector, the better it will be at discriminating objects beneath the surface. This means that cheaper models won’t have as good discrimination capabilities as those which come with a higher priced point.

That being said, there are some metal detectors under $300 which come with an impressive discrimination feature.

It is important to note that the discrimination feature on any given detector may not be as precise as you’d like it to be at first. It’s something that will take practice and patience in order to master. Learning how to properly use the discrimination settings on your metal detector can make all the difference when trying to identify specific objects beneath the surface.

Sensitivity

When it comes to metal detecting, sensitivity is one of the most important factors to consider. Sensitivity determines how deep a detector can go and how well it can distinguish between different metals. A higher sensitivity means that the detector will be able to detect objects buried deeper in the ground and also more accurately identify what type of metal they are made of.

Usually you can adjust the sensitivity of a metal detector but it is important to remember that increasing the sensitivity also increases false signals. This can easily be remedied however, by decreasing the level of discrimination and killing off any signals from junk metals.

When looking for a metal detector under $300, make sure to find one with good sensitivity as it will help you find more valuable targets with less nuisance signals. Different brands and models will offer different maximum depths and frequencies so do your research before making a purchase.

Ground balance

Ground balance is an essential feature of any metal detector, especially for those searching in highly mineralized soils. This feature allows the machine to adjust its internal circuitry to compensate for the interference caused by ground minerals and other elements present in the soil.

Ground balance

When a metal detector is not properly ground balanced, it may be unable to detect small targets or even larger targets that are deeply buried. It may also produce false signals from ground minerals which can make detecting difficult and frustrating. Therefore, having a good ground balance adjustment on your metal detector can greatly improve your success rate when searching.

Luckily, most of the metal detectors under $300 have some form of ground balance adjustment built into them. This can be a manual or automatic setting, depending on the model.

Frequency

When it comes to metal detectors, operating frequency is one of the most important factors to consider. Operating frequency determines how sensitive a metal detector will be when searching for different types of metals.

Metal detectors operating at a lower frequency will generate larger search coils that have better penetration into the ground but less sensitivity to small targets. This makes them great for finding deeper-buried objects like coins in a backyard or beach, but they won’t be able to find small gold nuggets that require higher frequencies. High frequency is more sensitive to detecting smaller objects and those located nearer to the surface. Typically, beginners are advised to use lower frequencies when starting out as it can help detect larger items such as coins and jewelry without getting overwhelmed with too many signals.

Most metal detectors have a range of settings that allow you to adjust the operating frequency depending on what type of target you are searching for. This makes it easy to switch between different settings when searching for different items.

A pinpointer

A pinpointer is an invaluable tool for any metal detectorist, especially those looking for small targets in tight spaces. A pinpointer is a handheld device that helps you precisely locate the target within a much smaller area than what your regular metal detector could cover.

The way it works is by detecting the presence of metals under or near the surface. Once you detect a potential target, you can use the pinpointer to pinpoint its exact location without having to dig an entire hole. It saves time and energy by giving you a focused search area where you are more likely to find your target.

Using a pinpointer also helps you find smaller targets such as coins or jewelry that may be hidden in tight spaces. The pinpointer emits a sound or vibrating sensation when it finds metal, allowing you to identify the exact spot and size of the target without having to dig around blindly.

Price

When it comes to metal detectors, price is one of the most important factors to consider. Many people assume that the more expensive a detector is, the better it is at finding targets, but this isn’t always true.

The best way to find a quality metal detector without breaking the bank is by researching your options and understanding what features are necessary for your specific needs. Certain models may be cheaper than others but offer fewer features or have a lower sensitivity which could make them less effective when trying to locate targets beneath the surface.

In general, most good-quality metal detectors under $300 will provide you with enough power and sensitivity to locate coins, jewelry, relics, and other items buried up to 8 inches deep. They won’t be as powerful as the more expensive metal detectors, but they will still do a great job at finding different items in various environments.

Price

It is also important to note that many metal detectors will come with additional accessories such as headphones, pinpointers, and search coils of different sizes which can help increase your success rate when searching for targets. So don’t forget to factor in the cost of these extras when deciding which model is best for you. [1],[2],[3],[4]


FAQ

How do I choose the best metal detector?

When choosing the best metal detector for your needs, it’s important to consider a few factors, such as the type of metal detecting you’ll be doing, the location where you plan to use the detector, and your budget. If you are looking for a metal detector under $300, then there are several great options available that offer good performance without breaking the bank.

To narrow down your search further, think about what kind of treasure hunting you plan on doing. For instance, if you are planning on searching in shallow water or wet sand, an underwater-rated metal detector is a must. On the other hand, if your primary target is coins and jewelry in dry land areas like parks and fields, then a land-based detector can work quite well. Additionally, keep in mind the type of metal you will be searching for; some detectors are more sensitive to certain types than others.

What is a good first-time metal detector?

The best metal detector for a beginner depends on your budget and the type of metal detecting you’re interested in. The popular Bounty Hunter TK4 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something around $100. It has a simple design, LCD display, and discrimination settings that make it easy to use.

As a beginner you won’t really need an expensive device stacked with features. You should look for something lightweight with a reasonable detection range, good discrimination settings and an easy-to-use interface.

What is the best metal detector for the price?

The best metal detector for the price is highly dependent on your budget, needs, and environment you’ll be using it in. However, if you are looking for a great metal detector under $300, we recommend the Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector. This metal detector has all the features necessary for successful treasure hunting without breaking the bank. Its rugged design makes it ideal for outdoor use, and with its powerful search coil system and adjustable sensitivity levels, you can find even the smallest objects buried in the ground with ease.

At $270, the Garrett ACE 400 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started metal detecting without spending too much money. With its easy-to-use LCD display and comprehensive settings, it can be used by both beginners and experienced metal detectorists alike.

Are cheap metal detectors worth it?

The short answer to this question is yes, cheap metal detectors can be worth it – if they are the right model and price point for your needs. Cheap doesn’t always mean lower quality; in fact, many of the best metal detectors under $300 offer excellent performance and durability.

If you’re looking for a low-cost detector that still offers great performance, there are several options available on the market today. Keep in mind that these models may not have as many features or settings as higher priced models, but they can still provide good results and satisfaction.

How deep can a metal detector detect gold?

The depth at which a metal detector can detect gold depends on several factors, including the size and shape of the item being detected as well as the type of soil or ground conditions. Generally speaking, most entry-level metal detectors under $300 are capable of detecting targets that are up to 10 inches deep in normal soil conditions. However, many mid-range models can offer greater depth capabilities up to 2 feet or more.

To make the work of metal detecting easier, many detectors come with adjustable modes, such as Discrimination or All Metal Mode. This allows the user to customize their settings in order to target certain metals that may be deeper down in the ground, such as gold. Additionally, some metal detectors are high-frequency models which allow them to detect targets at greater depths than standard VLF (very low frequency) models.

Useful Video: Best Metal Detector Review (Under $250)

Conclusion

Metal detectors have been around for a long time and have become an increasingly popular hobby. There is a wide variety of metal detectors available, from entry-level to professional models. Finding the best metal detector under $300 can be challenging, but with our guide and reviews of the top products on the market you should have no problem finding the perfect metal detector for your needs.

In this article, we have explored the features and specifications of some of the best metal detectors under $300. We’ve also provided helpful tips for choosing a suitable model, such as checking for functionality, accuracy, and sensitivity. After considering these factors, you should be able to find the perfect detector for your needs at an affordable price point.The End.
Whether you’re looking for something to help find lost coins and jewelry or just want an extra tool for your outdoor adventures – there are plenty of options within this price range that will get you started in your journey into treasure hunting. Be sure to read all product descriptions carefully before making your purchase in order to make sure it meets all of your expectations. We hope that this guide has given you the information and resources needed to make an informed decision about which metal detector is best for you. Happy hunting!


References:

  1. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-metal-detector/
  2. https://www.detectorsdownunder.com/page/metal-detector-buying-guide/
  3. https://www.toolsreview.uk/metal-detectors-a-buyers-guide/
  4. https://www.familylifeshare.com/best-metal-detectors-for-beginners/

Hello! I'm a James Miller, and I'm an expert in materials science. I learned different metal properties in the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and I know everything about all kinds of metal. That's why I want to share my experience with you.

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