So many people want to get involved in metal detecting, but they’re put off by these insane price tags and a lack of knowledge as to what they’re actually looking for. This means that some people, as much as they desire to become treasure hunters, ignore the market and don’t end up getting a metal detector of their own.
To solve this problem, I’ve decided I want to talk about some of the best budget metal detectors. These are metal detectors that, while cheaper, are still excellent products and are all under $200. So let’s not waste any time, and instead, we’ll dig into these fantastic finds.
The 5 Best Metal Detectors Under $200
Bounty Hunter MACH-1 Metal Detector
| Weight | 2.74 lbs |
| Dimensions | 40 x 6 x 8 inches |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene |
| Depth | Between 2” and 4 inches deep |
| Frequency Range | 7.69 kHz |
| Use | Coins, Relics, Jewelry, Beginners, and Kids |
Don’t let the price of the Bounty Hunter Mach-1 fool you, this is actually a really incredible product. If you’re new to the world of metal detecting, then this might be precisely what you need to get you started. It’s great for kids as well, but adults are just as likely to find good use out of it.
As far as metal detectors go, I’m not going to sugarcoat it or over-hype the Mach-1. It’s a pretty bare-bones machine. This shouldn’t come as a surprise considering the price, but I still feel the need to mention it right away. This detector has a digital display that showcases four discrimination segments, a target depth indicator, battery life, and sensitivity.
With this particular metal detector, you can discriminate three of the four segments. This helps you fine-tune what kinds of targets you’re looking for below the surface. It detects in 2” increments. While it can go deeper than its designated 4” limit, it’s not without faulty readings the lower it reads. The audio tones that alert users that there’s something down there are tied to the four DISC segments, making knowing what you found really easy, which is a nifty feature.
Overall this is a stellar product. Its biggest downside is that the search coil isn’t able to be submerged in the water as well as a lack of headphone jack capabilities. These compromises should be considered if your budget is well under $200.
Key Features
- Discrimination of 3 of the 4 segments
- 5-year warranty
Pros
- Super affordable
- Digital display
- 4 audio tones
- 2 button operation
Cons
- Waterproof search coil
Fisher Labs Research Labs F11
| Weight | 2.3 lbs |
| Dimensions | 24 x 10 x 8 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Depth | Between 2” and 8 inches deep |
| Frequency Range | 7.69 kHz |
| Use | Coins, Relics, Jewelry |
The Fisher Labs Research Labs F11 is an excellent metal detector to start out your treasure hunting days. For 20 straight hours, if you have it in you, that is, you can non-stop metal detect around town, across various terrain types, and hopefully, locate some hidden gems lost to the streets.
While well priced, there’s no shortage of great features present in the F11. For starters, it has a large LCD screen that is very easy to read. There are three settings available which are: jewelry, coin, and artifact finders. It’s also very user-friendly, so you shouldn’t have any issues switching up the settings and finding what you need.
Finally, there’s a four-tone audio identification feature that comes in handy as it sends out for distinct tones to acknowledge different finds. Overall, this is an excellent machine for a reasonable price.
Key Features
- 3-mode operation
- 9-segment visual target ID scale
- 6-level sensitivity control
Pros
- Built using quality materials and can withstand extended and frequent use
- Great discrimination to identify targets from trash
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and use for long periods of time
Cons
- Struggles with finding gold
Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver Metal Detector
| Weight | 2 lbs |
| Dimensions | 28.5 x 10.25 x 6.25 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| Depth | Up to 7 inches |
| Frequency Range | 6.6 kHz |
| Use | General, Coins, Relics, Jewelry |
This next entry from Bounty Hunter is another great addition to the list by a reliable brand. Bounty Hunter makes great metal detectors, and they’re always usually well priced considering their more entry-level nature.
The display on the QSI Quick Silver is void of a numerical target ID. However, it does split the metal types into four distinct categories. This makes discriminating three of the categories easier before toggling back to all-metal mode. There are three audio tones for the various target types supported by the QSI Quick Silver, unfortunately, they’re not linked to discrimination patterns on display.
One thing that makes this metal detector fairly special is that it might be budget, but it has the power to find gold. There’s also an available head jack for keeping those beeps to yourself, so you don’t aggravate others around you while you detect metal. Is it the best metal detector? No. Is it a good metal detector? Yes.
Key Features
- 4-Segment digital target identification
- 3-Tone audio identification
- Push-button discrimination control
- 5-year limited warranty
Pros
- Great visual display
- Headphone jack
- Adjustable sensitivity
Cons
- Preset ground balance isn’t outstanding
Garrett ACE 200
| Weight | 4.62 lbs |
| Dimensions | 5.98 x 5 x 9.02 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Depth | Up to 8 inches deep |
| Frequency Range | 6.5 kHz |
| Use | General, gold, silver |
In terms of starter metal detectors for general treasure hunting the Garret ACE 200 might be your metal detector of choice. Doesn’t matter if you’re hunting in forests or on the coastline; this metal detector is ready for some adventures.
So what is there to love about the Garret ACE 200? There’s a lot to love, actually. Let’s start with the target signals, which are super easy to understand, along with the Digital Target ID feature, which sends readouts of specific metals buried underground. It’s also great at determining the depth of the object beneath the surface. The console is easy to understand and is super straightforward, and there are even headphones included to get you going.
Thanks to its stellar design, this is a great lightweight metal detector to take on the road and spend hours using without feeling the burn. Its battery life will also allow you to use it for hours before needing a recharge. This is probably the most expensive option on this list, and it’s worth every dollar and every penny.
Key Features
- 4-level sensitivity controls
- Pulse-width modulation audio
- 6.5in. x 9in. Waterproof coil
- Digital target ID
- Comes with Garret Treasure Sound Headphones
Pros
- Great depth considering the price point
- Good sensitivity
- Crystal clear audible signals
Cons
- Could use a pinpointer
Bounty Hunter 3410001 TK4 Tracker IV
| Weight | 3.7 lbs |
| Dimensions | 28.25 x 10 x 6.25 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Depth | Up to 6 inches deep |
| Frequency Range | 6.6 kHz |
| Use |
Another Bounty Hunter entry because when the brand is good, it earns more spots! For basic use, this is the metal detector for you. It’s a relatively straightforward model, with just enough built in to make it worthy of some treasure hunting fun.
Beginners will benefit from this machine the most as it’s designed to make metal detecting as simple as possible without skimping on quality. This is great for a starter metal detector, and here are some of the reasons why that’s the case. The disc and notch control can differentiate between treasure and trash for staters. The preset ground balance neutralizes the response to mineral content on the ground. Sometimes these two things can cause inaccurate readings, but it’s rare.
There are a total of three modes of operation, and everything about the machine is user-friendly. Another aspect that’s a big bonus considering the price is that it’s relatively waterproof, meaning you can submerge it in some shallow waters. Overall, for what it’s sold as, it meats the mark.
Key Features
- 8 inch waterproof search coil
- 3-mode operation
- Know-controlled interface
- 2-tone audio discrimination
Pros
- Long lasting batteries
- Comfortable with great arm support and handgrip
- Quality tone mode which makes finding things much faster and easier
Cons
- Has moments of inaccurate readings
Personal Pick
How do you pick a favorite when all the options are so stellar? My personal preference is the Garret ACE 200. I don’t say this because it’s the most expensive. I say it because it truly is the best option. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of these options, but if I was purchasing a metal detector and had a budget under $200, the ACE is my go-to. Easy to use and understand, the included headphones, it’s lightweight and durable design. It’s perfect for a first or budget metal detector pick.
Buyers Guide
Here are some things you’re going to have to consider when searching for a metal detector under $200.
Weight
You want to find some great things with your metal detector, but you don’t want to be buckling under the weight of it and putting yourself out just to find some. So when you’re looking for a metal detector, take weight distribution seriously. The most comfortable metal detector models to use are usually the ones with arm cuffs and control boxes located in the center. Their weight is well distributed and reduces the load on your arms.
Controls
It sucks having a metal detector that proves exceptionally challenging to use. Don’t get sucked in by all the added features and flashy buzz words when shopping for a product. There’s nothing worse than a control box that is extremely convoluted and hard to navigate. Pro metal detectors are able to understand what they’re looking at. Still, people who’ve just recently entered the field are going to find themselves increasingly frustrated with their metal detector, and that’s not a recipe for a fun day of treasure hunting.
Frequency Range
The frequency range of a metal detector is significant depending on what kinds of things you’re trying to find. Obviously, on more budget models, it’s not always going to be spectacular. Still, you can always find some models providing impressive frequency ranges even at more conservative prices. The general range is between 6 kHz and 15 kHz, which is good for finding coins and other similar metals.
What you really should be looking for is metal detectors that have multiple frequency settings available. This can really increase your chances while offering a level of flexibility.
Depth Capabilities
Depth is determined by the size of the metal detectors coil. A larger coil can penetrate deeper into the ground. However, the larger the coil, the more potential there is for a reduction in accuracy and efficiency. The vast majority of metal detectors are able to locate items between 3 and 12 inches below the surface.
Waterproofing
If you’re planning on searching for treasures around lakes or beaches, then you might want to consider investing in a model with some water protection. When a metal detector has some basic form of salt or freshwater protection, it can handle a bit of haphazard splashing from general beachgoers. If you’re looking to go and search in the water, you need a completely waterproof model which can cost you a bit more than your budget.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, the best metal detectors under $200. Now you’ve got some options to consider to get you started! Metal detecting is a great hobby to get involved in and is something you can enjoy with your friends and family at unique locations around the country. I also reviewed some good options for detectors under 300. Taking a day and hitting a national park, lake, or beachfront and just enjoying one another’s company while looking for treasure, can you think of anything better?
Your $200 metal detector doesn’t have to be the end of the road. You can enjoy the fact that there’s always room for upgrades down the line. Until then, enjoy the model you eventually land on, go out, have fun, and find some treasure!
