Best Metal Detectors Under $500: Top 5 Picks for 2025

If you are short on time, here is a quick comparison of the top metal detectors under $500:

Best Overall: Minelab Vanquish 540
Best for Beginners: Nokta Simplex+
Best Budget Pick: Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro
Best for Kids: Nokta Midi Hoard

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Introduction

Metal detecting is an exciting hobby that blends outdoor activities, history, and valuable discovery.

We will review the hand-picked best metal detectors under 500 dollars. We will highlight their key features, pros and cons, and the best use cases for each metal detector.

Best Metal Detectors Under $500

1. Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector

Best For: Coins, Relics, Jewelry, Beginners & Intermediate Users

Key Features:

• Operating Frequency: 10 kHz for improved sensitivity on low and medium-conductivity targets
• Search Coil: 8.5” x 11” waterproof coil
• Audio: Allows users to hear discriminated iron targets
• Digital Target ID: 0-99 scale for identifying targets
• Search Modes: Five search modes + pinpointing function
• Notch Discrimination: Helps filter out unwanted targets
• Adjustable Sensitivity: Eight sensitivity and depth adjustments
• Weight: Lightweight design for extended use
• Warranty: 3-year warranty

Pros:

• Excellent target identification system
• Sensitivity for coins, relics, and jewelry
• Waterproof search coil
• Easy to use for beginners and experienced users

Cons:

• Control box is not waterproof
• No built-in rechargeable battery

Check Price & Buy Garrett ACE 400 Metal Detector

2. Minelab Vanquish 540 Metal Detector

Best For: AT Detecting, Coins, Relics, Jewelry, Beach Hunting

Key Features:

• Multi-IQ Technology: Simultaneous multi-frequency operation for enhanced detection
• Search Coil: Waterproof 12” V12 coil for better depth and coverage
• Iron Bias Control: Helps reduce interference from trash items
• Four Search Modes: Coins, Relics, Jewelry, Custom
• Weight: 1.3kg (2.8 lbs)
• Waterproof Coil: Fully submersible
• Pinpoint Mode: Helps locate targets with precision
• Audio Control: Noise cancellation and 10-volume settings
• Backlight: Red LED for low-light conditions
• Rechargeable Batteries: Included with the package

Pros:

• Multi-frequency technology enhances accuracy
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Great for all terrains, including beaches
• Pinpointer and headphones included

Cons:

• Control unit is water-resistant but not fully waterproof
• More expensive than single-frequency detectors

Check Price & Buy Minelab Vanquish 540 Metal Detector

3. Nokta Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector

Best For: Beginners, Hobbyists, Coin & Relic Hunting and Beach Detecting

Key Features:

• Operating Frequency: 15 kHz
• Search Coil: Waterproof 11”
• Waterproof: up to 5 meters (16 ft)
• Search Modes: Field, Park, Beach, All Metal
• Notch Discrimination: Filters out unwanted metals
• Built-in Vibration: Ideal for underwater detecting
• Flashlight: Perfect for night or underwater use
• Rechargeable Battery: USB charging capability
• Lightweight Design: Weighs only 1.2kg (2.6 lbs)

Pros:

• Fully waterproof up to 16 ft
• Feature-rich yet beginner-friendly
• Affordable for its capabilities
• Great for both land and water detecting

Cons:

• No wireless headphones included
• Lacks multi-frequency technology

Check Price & Buy Nokta Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector

4. Nokta Midi Hoard Kids Metal Detector

Best For: Kids (Ages 8-12), Learning Metal Detecting, Outdoor Fun

Key Features:

• Operating Frequency: 15 kHz
• Search Coil: 7” Waterproof coil
• Weight: 880g (1.9 lbs) – Lightweight and easy for kids
• Adjustable Shaft: Extends from 32.5” to 43”
• Audio Tones: Three distinct tones for metal identification
• Discrimination & Pinpoint Mode: Helps differentiate between targets
• LED Indicators: Depth and discrimination alerts
• Battery: Runs on 2 AA batteries
• Auto Shut-off: Saves battery life

Pros:

• Perfect for kids to start metal detecting
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Affordable and durable
• Waterproof coil for shallow water detecting

Cons:

• Limited features compared to adult models
• Not suitable for deep target detection

Check Price & Buy Nokta Midi Hoard Kids Metal Detector

5. Bounty Hunter Land-Ranger Pro Metal Detector

Best For: Beginners & Experienced Hobbyists, Coins, Jewelry, Relic Hunting

Key Features:

• Operating Frequency: 7.69 kHz
• Search Coil: 11” DD waterproof coil
• Search Modes: Seven preset modes, including All-Metal, Coins, Jewelry, and Relics
• Ground Balance: Automatic or manual adjustments for different terrains
• Target ID System: 0-99 numeric identification for target recognition
• Pinpoint Mode: With depth indicator for correct detection
• Notch Discrimination: Helps filter unwanted metals
• Weight: 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg)

Pros:

• User-friendly control panel
• Lightweight and comfortable for long use
• Versatile for different detecting scenarios
• Excellent ground balancing features

Cons:

• Not fully waterproof (only the coil is submersible)
• Lacks multi-frequency technology

Check Price & Buy Bounty Hunter Land-Ranger Pro Metal Detector

Conclusion: Which Metal Detector Should You Choose?

Choosing the best metal detector under $500 depends on your specific needs:

• For beginners & general use → Garrett ACE 400
• For all-terrain & serious detecting → Minelab Vanquish 540
• For advanced and affordable → Nokta Simplex+
• For kids & family fun → Nokta Midi Hoard
• For versatile with easy controls → Bounty Hunter Land Ranger Pro

No matter your choice, these metal detectors offer incredible value and performance. Happy hunting!