5 Best Small Metal Detectors of 2025 (Reviewed & Compared)

Small metal detectors are getting smarter, lighter, and more popular than ever. Whether you’re just starting out or you want something easy to carry, today’s compact models offer serious performance in a small package.

In this guide, we’ll review five of the best small metal detectors you can buy right now — and explain why size isn’t a problem anymore.

Small Metal Detector Comparison Table (At a Glance)

Why Small Metal Detectors Are Surging in Popularity?

After the pandemic, more people started exploring outdoor hobbies. Hiking, beachcombing, and treasure hunting all saw big jumps. According to Statista, interest in outdoor gear rose sharply between 2021 and 2024.

At Detector Warehouse, compact metal detectors became a top-selling category in early 2025. These models are easier to carry, often waterproof, and great for trips.

But are small detectors strong enough?

That’s a common question. Some think they’re just toys or beginner tools. Others wonder if they can find anything deeper than surface coins.

Let’s look at the facts.

What to Look for in a Small Metal Detector?

Not all small detectors are the same. Here are a few things that matter most:

1. Weight: Under 3 pounds is ideal for long hunts

2. Waterproof: Many models have waterproof coils or full submersion

3. Wireless audio: No cords means more freedom

4. Frequency range: Needed for detecting gold or relics

5. Battery life: Some last 15–27 hours on a charge

6. Build quality: Telescopic stems and durable frames help on rough terrain

Price Breakdown: What to Expect?

1. Budget (Under $300): Pinpointers like the Garrett ProPointer AT

2. Mid-Range ($300–$800): Hobbyist models like the XP ORX

3. Premium ($800–$1500): High-tech units like the XP Deus II WS6 Master

Most compact detectors fall in the mid-range category, with enough power for serious treasure hunting.

Top Picks – Small Metal Detectors Reviewed

1. XP Deus II WS6 Master FMF – Best Overall Compact Performance

Key Features:

• Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) tech with 49 frequency options (4–45 kHz)

• Waterproof to 66 ft (20m)

• Wireless headphones (WS6 module)

• 9" coil ideal for target separation

• Rainproof module and quick 3-unit charging

Best for: Advanced users, gold hunting, underwater use

The XP Deus II WS6 is powerful, fast, and waterproof. It uses Fast Multi Frequency (FMF) tech, which means it scans multiple frequencies at once. This helps it find both deep coins and tiny gold flakes.

It's waterproof to 66 feet, making it one of the best for beach or underwater hunting. The 9” coil is light and easy to swing. Wireless audio means no cables to deal with.

Pros:

• Super fast wireless target response
• Fully waterproof for diving and beach use
• Multiple search modes and expert settings
• Lightweight build for all-day use

Cons

• Premium price point
• Slight learning curve for total beginners

2. XP DEUS RC – Fully Wireless & Lightweight

Key Features:

• Wireless digital remote control
• 9" X35 Double-D waterproof coil
• 35 selectable frequencies (3.7–27.7 kHz)
• 2 lbs total weight
• USB rechargeable syste

Best for: Relic hunting, parks, portability

This is the model that made compact detecting cool. The XP DEUS RC weighs only about 2 pounds. It has 35 frequency options, so you can tune it to detect almost anything.

You get full wireless control with a bright display. The coil is waterproof, and the design folds down small. It’s ideal for long hunts in different environments.

Pros

• Full wireless control – no cords at all
• Lightweight and compact
• Adjustable settings for beginners and pros
• Strong battery life (27 hours remote)

Cons

• Not fully submersible (coil is waterproof, control is not)
• Fewer audio customization features than Deus II

3. XP ORX – Great for Gold & Beginners

Key Features:

• Lightweight (1.7 lbs) with telescopic stem
• 9" waterproof X35 coil
• 35 frequency settings (3.7–27.7 kHz)
• 2 gold programs + 2 coin/relic modes
• Comes with wired and wireless headphones

Best for: Beginners, kids, gold hunting

The XP ORX is light (only 1.7 pounds) and easy to use. It has preset programs for gold and coins, so beginners don’t have to guess. It comes with both wired and wireless headphones.

Its frequency range works well for small gold nuggets and jewelry. It’s a good choice if you want to try gold hunting without spending top dollar.

Pros

• Super easy to set up and use
• Gold prospecting modes included
• Very light and well-balanced
• Long battery life (~20 hours)

Cons

• No advanced audio profiles like higher-end models
• Basic display design

4. Nokta Makro PulseDive 2-in-1 – Best for Diving & Travel

Key Features:

• Switches between pinpointer and scuba detector
• Waterproof up to 200 ft (IP68 rating)
• Audio, vibration, or both
• Built-in LED flashlight
• Quick retune and dive mode

Best for: Divers, beachgoers, travelers

This one stands out. The PulseDive can switch from a scuba detector to a pinpointer. That makes it great for underwater trips or snorkeling.

It’s fully waterproof to 200 feet, and fits in a small bag. You can choose between sound, vibration, or both for alerts. It’s a favorite for beach hunters and divers.

Pros

• Small, tough, and made for travel
• Works in saltwater or freshwater
• Strong pulse induction tech
• Rechargeable with quick charging

Cons

• Not for sweeping large ground areas
• Limited to pinpointing or close-range scans

5. Garrett ProPointer AT – Best Waterproof Pinpointer

Key Features:

• Fully waterproof up to 20 ft
• 3 sensitivity levels
• Lost alarm and auto shutoff
• 360° detection tip
• Built-in LED light and ruler

Best for: Pinpointing targets, use with larger detectors

This is a handheld detector, not a full machine. But it’s a must-have for anyone digging up targets. The ProPointer AT is submersible to 20 feet and has 360° detection.

It helps you find the exact spot to dig after a bigger detector locates the area. It's small, tough, and fast to retune. Many pros carry one on every hunt.

Pros

• Reliable and fast target pinpointing
• Very easy to use with one button
• Rugged and water-ready
• Long battery life (9V battery included)

Cons

• Not a full detector — only a pinpointing tool
• Not suitable for sweeping wide areas

Small vs Full-Sized Metal Detectors: What’s the Tradeoff?

Larger detectors can sometimes go deeper, especially with bigger coils. But small detectors today use tech that closes the gap.

For example, multi-frequency and frequency shift tech allow small models to detect deeper than older, bulkier ones.

Compact detectors are also easier to carry, store, and travel with. And many now come with 5-year warranties and upgradeable software.

Who Should Use a Small Metal Detector?

1. Beginners: Easier to learn, lighter to hold
2. Parents & Kids: Great for bonding, education, and fun
3. Travelers: Packs easily, works on beaches or trails
4. Gold Hunters: Models like XP ORX and Deus II are made for fine gold

Small doesn’t mean basic. These models are built for real-world use.

FAQs About Small Metal Detectors

Are small metal detectors good for gold?

Yes. The XP ORX and Deus II use frequencies perfect for finding small gold nuggets.

How deep can a small metal detector go?

They can find coins up to 12 inches deep, depending on soil. Larger objects go even deeper.

Are these just toys or real tools?

They’re real. The detectors reviewed here are professional-grade with serious features.

Can I use them underwater?

Yes. The PulseDive and Deus II are fully waterproof. Others have waterproof coils for shallow water.

Read more: Best Metal Detector Pinpointers Under $100

Final Thoughts: Do Small Metal Detectors Deliver?

The answer is yes. Today’s small detectors are packed with smart features. They're wireless, waterproof, and ready to find coins, relics, or gold.

Whether you’re just getting started or upgrading your gear, compact models offer power without the bulk. Detector Warehouse stocks top brands — all with expert support and full warranties.

Shop Small Metal Detectors at DetectorWarehouse!