The beach is probably one of the best places to go treasure hunting. We so often head out to the coastlines to experience the salty sea air and swim in the ocean. However, with swimming in the sea comes waves, and these have a unique ability to take valuable possessions away from us in an instant.
I’m not here to tell you how you can keep your possessions safe at the beach. I’m here to talk about metal detectors that are perfect for finding treasures on the beach. In this article, I will detail a series of metal detectors, all under $300, which are ideal for beach treasure hunting. Let’s dig in!
The 5 Best Beach Metal Detectors Under $300
I’ve listed 5 beach detector options that I think are good enough at a $300 price restriction.
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector
| Weight | 5 lbs |
| Dimensions | 22 x 11 x 6 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Frequency Range | 8 kHz |
| Use | Coins, Relics, and Beginners |
Anyone who’s even remotely interested in metal detecting should be well aware of Garrett. They’re one of the leading brands when it comes to metal detectors. The Ace 300 is one of their most popular models, especially for beginners. It’s a well-crafted metal detector with all the features that make more complicated models so successful; they’re just slightly less in-depth to accommodate beginners.
Let’s start with how this metal detector functions and its uses to get the job done right. First of all, I’ve got to mention the search coil, which measures 7 x 10 inches and managed to achieve a decent depth. There’s a depth indicator that details how far down you’ll need to dig in order to reach the treasure you seek.
The frequency of the ACE 300 is 8 kHz which is great low and medium conductivity targets thanks to the sensitivity the frequency provides. You’ll be able to pick up just about any metal, and with the flick of a switch, you can look for specific things. The modes included are; coins, jewelry, relics, custom, and no discrimination. While other targets are going to show up on the readout, there won’t be an audio alert accompanying such a find.
The ACE 300 is a great budget beginner’s beach metal detector that anyone can get behind. Thanks to the waterproof search coil, you can hit the water and look for hours on end with long stretches of coastline to explore.
Key Features
- Depth indicator
- 2-year warranty
- Waterproof search coil
Pros
- Great if you’re a beginner
- Easy-to-use search function
- Exceptional value for money
- Trusted reliable brand
Cons
- No volume controls
- If you’re a more seasoned metal detector this will be too simple for you
Minelab Vanquish 440
| Weight | 2.6 lbs |
| Dimensions | 57 x 10.6 x 5.3 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Frequency Range | Multi-IQ |
| Use | Coin, Jewellery, Custom, and All Metal |
The Vanquish 440 is an all-terrain, all-purpose metal detector and the individual frequencies of the metal detector are unknown to us. However, what we’re aware of when it comes to the Vanquish 440 is that every time it is working on the ground, multiple frequencies are hitting the surface and below at the same time. This means it’s working diligently to locate anything and everything possible.
In total, the Vanquish 440 has 10 levels of sensitivity which makes it equipped to find serious types of treasures belowground. Additionally, there are 10 volume levels and 3 tones. As one might expect, the Vanquish 440 requires a rather potent amount of power to operate technology such as the Multi-IQ frequency range. This machine operates on 4 x AA alkaline batteries, giving you a 10 – 12 hours window of use. Now, if you’re planning on exploring far longer than this or are camping away from home, I recommend getting a spare set.
This is a well-priced model that may not be perfect. Still, it’s definitely worth considering when looking at a new, or first, metal detector.
Key Features
- Multi-IQ frequency
- Pinpoint mode
- Turn on and go
Pros
- Reasonable price
- Lightweight device
- All-terrain metal detector
- multi-IQ
Cons
- Battery life is disappointing
Nokta Makro Simplex
| Weight | 4.69 lbs |
| Dimensions | 22 x 11.5 x 5.5 inches |
| Material | Iron |
| Frequency Range | 12 kHz |
| Use | General, Coins, Relics, Jewelry |
The Nokta Makro Simplex constantly tops lists of budget metal detectors, and it’s not really a surprise at all! It’s a great model from a reputable manufacturer and remains a favorite of many metal detector enthusiasts.
Let’s start with some of the key features of this metal detector, like the fact that it’s weather-proof and submersible up to 10-feet. You’ll be able to search along the coastline on sandy beaches and shallow waters to find little nuggets of treasure.
The display on the Nokta Makro Simplex is a digital display featuring an LCD backlight that is even visible underwater! You’ll be able to pair the metal detector with a pair of wireless waterproof headphones, so you’re always in the loop. There are 6 sensitivity levels and pinpoint functionality.
Finally, the Simplex also has manual and automatic ground balancing ability. There are five search modes, including a dedicated beach mode for searching and iron volume rounding it out to adjust the volume on all your iron targets! The Simplex is a great model for all treasure hunters and offers a well-rounded experience that can lead to some great finds on the sandy shores of local beaches. The battery life is decent, and the batteries are rechargeable.
Key Features
- Hit targets at extreme depth
- Automatic & Manual ground balancing
- 5 x Search modes
- Built-in rechargeable battery
- Adjustable shaft
Pros
- Lightweight
- Submersible
- Wireless compatibility
- Beach search mode
- Iron volume
- Digital display
Cons
- Not recommended for diving
>>Check price on Amazon You can also read my full Nokta review
Teknetics Delta 4000 Metal Detector
| Weight | 3.5 lbs |
| Dimensions | 11.25 x 6.5 x 40 inches |
| Material | Metal |
| Frequency Range | 7.8 kHz |
| Use | General, gold, silver |
The Teknetics Delta 4000 metal detector has made many best-of lists and has long been a fan favorite. The search coil is waterproof, a major benefit for those looking to hunt around the beaches, lakes, and rivers. It’s important to note that while the search coil is waterproof, the entire metal detector is not, so don’t go diving headfirst into a body of water with this machine!
The power source of this 7.8 kHz frequency metal detector is 9V alkaline batteries which are extremely common to find. I recommend getting a backup set of batteries just in case you take this on a trip where there’s no power to recharge.
The metal detector itself is lightweight, weighing in at 2.6 pounds, so it’s not going to cramp your style while you’re using it for long periods of time. The Delta 4000’s shaft is also adjustable, so it’s all-height-friendly.
The LCD screen is easy-to-read and pinpointing is far easier because of this! Overall this is a worthy metal detector to consider and even comes with a 5-year limited warranty. As a result, any defects in materials and workmanship are taken care of by Teknetics. They fervently stand by their products and customer satisfaction.
Key Features
- 3-tone audio ID
- Overload alarm system
- Static push-button pinpoint
- The target ID system is a numeric two-digit
- Discrimination is adjustable
- Adjustable shaft
Pros
- Easy to use
- Set up and go
- Screw-on search coil
Cons
- Waterproofing could be better, use in water with caution
Bounty Hunter PL PROQD Multi-Purpose Detector
| Weight | 2.4 lbs |
| Dimensions | 45 x 8 x 14 inches |
| Material | Iron, Metal |
| Frequency Range | 7.69 kHz |
| Use |
The PL PROQD may not have an easy name like the brand that produces it, but it’s an impressive metal detector without a doubt. There is a range of interesting features which really make it rather different from competing models.
The PL PROQD can detect and pinpoint coins up to 9’ inches in the ground. Larger items can be found up to two ft underground. The search coil is a 10’ elliptical concentric and is waterproof. This means you can take it to the beach, lake, rivers, and low wading waters for treasure hunting. Maybe you’ll stumble upon some discarded engagement rings, assuming the drama from movies is true, and they really do get thrown in!
You can adjust the height easily, and the LCD screen can show various things like target ID, coin depth, etc. For comfortability, they’ve included an armrest that’s padded, so using it for long periods of time won’t strain you. Overall, it’s a great metal detector, at a reasonable price that’s ready to work for you and your treasure hunting needs.
Key Features
- 3-tone audio ID
- 0-99 target ID numbers
- Pinpoint mode
- Adjustable iron audio
- Fetone
- Graphic target depth indicator
Pros
- Performs in up to one foot of water
- Adjustable volume control
- Pinpointer
Cons
- Sometimes struggles a bit performance on beach sand
Personal Pick
My personal pick for a beach metal detector under $300 would have to be the Garret Ace 300. I am a massive fan of the brand and instantly gravitate toward their metal detectors. They make it easy for beginners to get involved in metal detecting. The metal detectors from Garret are easy-to-use, equipped with great features, and they’re a reliable manufacturer with reasonable prices. With a great search coil, a quality LCD screen, and easy treasure-finding functionality. This is a winner in my eyes!
Final Thoughts
Heading to the beach for treasure hunting is always a fun experience. However, finding beaches that are heavily populated but hitting them at the right time can result in a hefty haul. So once you find the perfect metal detector for you, you’ll be ready to hit the beach!
While these are five of the best beach metal detectors within this budget, they’re not the only ones out there. If you willing to spend more, I’ve made a full beach detector review. Look around and make sure you find exactly what you’re looking for in a metal detector.
