The best metal detectors for gold

So, you want to strike it rich with a metal detector for gold? Join the club. Literally! We’ve collected the metal detectors that perform particularly well in the hunt for gold. If you’re hoping to head out and find even a bit of treasure, then a metal detector for gold can make a huge difference. The best detectors are sensitive enough to distinguish between gold and ferrous metals, are often fully submersible, and can even find gold in difficult soils, such as mineralized black sand. Some detectors also come with special features, such as a gold-probability register that shows how likely a nugget might be gold or just a chunk of lead. With everything from cheap detectors to throw in your beach wagon for casual treasure hunts to professional metal detectors for intense days in the field, we’re exploring it all. These are the best metal detectors for gold to help you find that nugget, ring, or other treasure you’ve always dreamed of.

Gold discrimination—the ability to suss out gold and not, say, metal nails—is one factor that might make a good gold metal detector. Overall detection power, however, is often more important. It’s better to get a nail and a golden ring than to miss both, after all. We also examine metal detectors for gold that can withstand the wetness of the beach and detect through mineral-laden soils.

Our analysis of the following metal detectors, and their inclusion on our list, comes from surveying their ability to detect gold and serve average customers. We looked at the frequencies available, weight, ability to work in varying terrains and conditions, as well as standard customer experiences. We talked with a Garrett expert for a brief overview of some of their machines (one of which was always marked for inclusion) and generalized…