Best Entry Level Metal Detector for Beginners (2025)

So, You’re Thinking About Getting a Metal Detector?

Getting into metal detecting is easier than you think. Picture yourself walking in the park or on the beach. Your detector beeps. You dig a little—and there it is. A coin or maybe a ring. That’s the fun of this hobby.

If you're just starting out, you might be asking: "What’s the best entry level metal detector?" Let’s keep it simple and find out.

Comparison Table

Why Metal Detecting Is a Great Hobby for Beginners

Metal detecting is like real-life treasure hunting. You get outside, move around, and maybe find something cool—like coins or jewelry.

It’s also super beginner-friendly. You don’t need to spend a lot or know a bunch of tech. Just grab a good metal detector, stay patient, and have fun.

Still not sure if beginner gear is right for you? Check out our post: Beginner vs. Intermediate Metal Detectors: What’s the Difference?.

What Beginners Should Look For in a Metal Detector

Here’s what you want in a beginner detector:

1. Easy to Use: Simple buttons and displays.
2. Lightweight: So it doesn’t wear you out.
3. Waterproof Coil: Handy for wet grass or shallow water.
4. Adjustable Sensitivity: Helps avoid junk targets.
5. Pinpoint Mode: Shows exactly where to dig.

Need help choosing? Explore our beginner metal detectors collection or try a Beginner Metal Detector Bundle with everything you need.

Top 5 Best Entry Level Metal Detectors

Let’s meet the stars of the beginner world. These detectors are great for new users, and they're all available at DetectorWarehouse.

1. Garrett ACE 300 – The Friendly Overachiever

Why it rocks:

• Has digital target ID (0–99) so you can actually understand what you’re finding.
• Comes with headphones and a cover for the control box (aka brain of the detector).
• Great coil coverage and adjustable settings.

Best for: Yard explorers, park hunters, and beach weekenders.

Looking for something affordable? You might also want to check our post on the Best Low Cost Metal Detectors for Beginners.

2. Nokta Legend Pro Pack – The Upgrade King

Why it rocks:

• Comes with two coils (big and small) for different hunts.
• Has a waterproof pinpointer and tons of pro features.
• Fully waterproof, advanced discrimination, and target profiles.

Best for: People who want a detector that can grow with them.

It also ranks high in our Best Metal Detectors Under $500 for packing pro-level features at a great price.

3. Minelab X-Terra Pro – The Smart Starter

Why it rocks:

• Lets you change frequencies (that’s a big deal) for different soil types.
• Fully waterproof up to 16 feet.
• Easy interface and compact design.

Best for: Beach lovers and field adventurers.

4. Nokta Simplex Ultra – The Lightweight Wonder

Why it rocks:

• Crazy light (just 2.6 lbs), but packed with useful features.
• Built-in flashlight and vibration for underwater or night hunts.
• Multiple tone modes and 30 sensitivity levels.

Best for: Newbies who don’t want to overthink it.

Need more help choosing? Read our post on Best Starter Metal Detectors.

5. Minelab Vanquish 440 – The Plug-and-Play Prodigy

Why it rocks:

• Uses Multi-IQ tech to scan all metals and all depths at once.
• Comes with a waterproof coil and pinpoint mode.
• Super lightweight and collapses for easy travel.

Best for: Travelers, kids, or weekend warriors.

Also Read: Best Entry Level Metal Detector for Gold

FAQs: What Beginners Always Ask

Q: Will I really find anything?

Yup—but you’ll also find bottle caps. That’s part of the game.

Q: Do I need to spend $1,000?

Nope. You’ll get great results with any of the detectors above. And we’ve rounded up more on our post: Best Metal Detectors Under $500.

Q: What else do I need?

A good digging tool, a finds pouch, and maybe a sand scoop. Or get a Beginner Metal Detector Bundle and save yourself the guesswork.

Wrap Up: Your First Treasure Hunt Starts Now

You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to be curious.

Start with one of the beginner-friendly options above and let your adventure begin. Trust us—you’ll be hooked after your first beep.

Want more tips, tools, and treasure-hunting goodness? Check out all our top picks in our metal detector collection.