The Minelab Equinox 800 has been discontinued
Minelab no longer manufactures it and it is no longer sold new on Amazon. Our full review stays up below — it's still a capable machine and plenty turn up secondhand — but if you're buying today, the current equivalent is the Minelab Equinox 900 at $999.00.
That link goes to the Minelab Equinox 900 — a different, newer detector, not the Minelab Equinox 800.
Minelab Equinox 800 vs Minelab Equinox 900 — see exactly what changed between the two generations before you buy.
Last listed at $948.00 before it was discontinued. That figure is historical, not a current price.
Minelab Equinox 800Complete Review & Field Test 2026
The Equinox 800 revolutionized detecting by making simultaneous multi-frequency affordable. It runs 5, 10, 15, and 20 kHz at once for consistent performance across target types and ground conditions. Eight customizable profiles let you dial in settings for coins, relics, beach, or gold—then save them for instant recall.
Key Features:
- Multi-IQ technology (simultaneous multi-frequency)
- IP68 waterproof to 3 meters (10 ft)
- 4 single frequencies: 5, 10, 15, 20 kHz
- 6 custom search profiles
- Backlit LCD display
The Minelab Equinox 800 is discontinued. This is the Minelab Equinox 900 — the current model, and a different detector.
Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
Expert Overview
The Minelab Equinox 800 represents Minelab's commitment to delivering reliable metal detection technology. Operating at Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz), this professional-grade detector has earned its 4.7-star rating from over 1,258 verified users—a testament to its real-world performance.
Frequency
5 KHz
Weight
6 pounds
Battery
12-14 hours
IP Rating
IP67 or higher
Coil
EQX 11" DD
Technical Specifications
In-Depth Field Performance
Detection Depth & Coverage
In field testing, the Minelab Equinox 800 demonstrates consistent target acquisition across various soil types. The EQX 11" DD provides excellent ground coverage while maintaining sensitivity to smaller targets. With a maximum detection depth of 10-12" (coin), it performs admirably for beach and underwater hunting. Recovery speed between targets is fast enough for trashy sites, making it suitable for competition-level detecting.
Target ID & Discrimination
Target identification on the Minelab Equinox 800 uses 50 segments to differentiate between valuable finds and junk. The 8 (4 base + 4 custom) search modes provide flexibility for different hunting scenarios. Audio feedback is clear and responsive, helping you make quick dig decisions. The Bluetooth + wired delivers clear tones even in noisy outdoor environments.
Technology & Ground Handling
Minelab equipped the Minelab Equinox 800 with Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) technology, which is optimized for detecting a wide range of targets from gold jewelry to silver coins. The Auto + Manual system gives experienced users full control over mineralization compensation. Full waterproof capability to IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) opens up beach and shallow water hunting opportunities.
Build Quality & Ergonomics
Weighing 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg), the Minelab Equinox 800 is lightweight enough for extended hunting sessions without fatigue. The 48" to 55.5" adjustable accommodates users of different heights. Build quality is solid and designed for outdoor durability. 12-14 hours means less worry about power during full-day hunts.
Settings & Modes Guide
Choosing a Search Mode
The Minelab Equinox 800 offers 8 (4 base + 4 custom) search modes. For beach and wet-sand hunting or underwater and shallow-water recovery, start with the preset closest to that target type — it pre-loads discrimination and tone breaks tuned for it — then fine-tune discrimination and sensitivity from there as you learn the site.
Discrimination Setup
Discrimination on the Minelab Equinox 800 runs on 50 segments. Notch narrowly rather than rejecting broad ranges of the scale — wide notches on a segmented display bury real targets that share a tone with trash.
Ground Balance
The Minelab Equinox 800's Auto + Manual ground balance gives you both options. Leave it on auto/tracking for normal parks and fields — it adjusts on the fly and needs no attention. Switch to manual in heavily mineralized soil, black sand beaches, or old homesites where auto-tracking can drift: pump the coil a few inches over clean ground until the threshold stops changing, lock it in, and re-check whenever the soil type changes.
Sensitivity & Mineralization
The Minelab Equinox 800 runs at Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz). In average, low-mineralization soil, sensitivity can run near the maximum stable threshold for the deepest signal. In mineralized ground — red clay, black sand, or salt-contaminated soil — back sensitivity down until the false chatter settles, then re-check your ground balance.
Pros & Cons
- Multi-IQ technology handles any ground conditions
- Fully waterproof for beach and shallow diving
- Excellent depth on coins and relics
- Fast target recovery
- Highly customizable settings
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- No threshold tone in some modes
- Battery not field-replaceable
Gold prospectors hunting nuggets in mineralized ground. High frequency and ground balance capabilities are essential for this application.
Those who plan to hunt exclusively in saltwater or need maximum depth. Consider upgrading to a waterproof model with manual ground balance.
Things to Know Before You Buy
Can be overwhelming for beginners
Something worth weighing before you buy, based on real owner feedback.
No threshold tone in some modes
Something worth weighing before you buy, based on real owner feedback.
Battery not field-replaceable
Carry a spare battery or charger on longer trips so this doesn't cut a hunt short.
vs Competition
| Feature | Minelab Equinox 800 | Garrett AT Max | Garrett AT Gold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $948.00last listed | $809.98 | $749.98 |
| Rating | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
| Frequency | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) | 13.6 kHz | 18 kHz |
| Weight | 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg) | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kg) | 2.9 lbs (1.32 kg) |
| Waterproof | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) | Full to 10 ft | Full to 10 ft |
Frequently Asked Questions
In optimal low-mineralized soil, the Minelab Equinox 800 can detect a quarter-sized coin at 10-12" (coin). Larger objects like relics and caches can be detected at greater depths. In highly mineralized ground, expect 15-20% reduction in depth. Actual results depend on soil conditions, target size, and discrimination settings.
The Minelab Equinox 800 is designed for experienced detectorists who want more control and features. Beginners can use it but may need time to learn the advanced settings. Consider the Minelab entry-level models if you're just starting out.
Yes — the Minelab Equinox 800 is fully waterproof (IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft)), making it excellent for beach and even shallow-water hunting. You can hunt the wet sand, surf zone, and shallow water without worrying about the control box. The Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) handles saltwater mineralization well.
Start on the search mode closest to "beach" — the Minelab Equinox 800 ships with 8 (4 base + 4 custom) search modes, and the closest match pre-loads discrimination and tone breaks for that target type. Keep discrimination low at first so you don't skip real targets while you learn the site, and ground balance manually before you start swinging. Tighten discrimination and sensitivity once you know what the local trash sounds like.
The Minelab Equinox 800 uses 50 segments for target ID. Start with little to no discrimination so you learn what iron, foil, and pull tabs sound like in your specific soil, then notch out only the confirmed junk tones — narrow notches beat wide ones, since wide rejection zones also bury real targets.
The standard Minelab Equinox 800 package includes: the detector unit, EQX 11" DD, coil cover, rechargeable battery pack, and user manual. Some retailers offer accessory bundles with additional coils, carrying bags, and digging tools.
Yes, Minelab provides a 3 years manufacturer warranty for the Minelab Equinox 800 in the USA through authorized dealers. Service centers are available for repairs and support. Register your detector after purchase for full warranty coverage.
The Minelab Equinox 800 at its last listed price of $948.00 competed with professional detectors including the Minelab Equinox series. Key advantages include multi-iq technology handles any ground conditions and fully waterproof for beach and shallow diving. However, note that can be overwhelming for beginners. See our comparison guides for detailed head-to-head analysis.
Final Verdict
Based on 1,258 reviews
The Minelab Equinox 800 is an excellent choice for gold prospectors hunting nuggets in mineralized ground. high frequency and ground balance capabilities are essential for this application.. With a proven track record of 4.7-star ratings from 1,258 users, it delivers on its promises in the field.
At its last listed price of $948.00, the Minelab Equinox 800 sat in the professional-grade segment. For serious detectorists, it offers professional-level capabilities that justify the investment. The 3 years warranty applied to units bought new, and may no longer be transferable on a secondhand purchase.
Bottom Line: The Minelab Equinox 800 is no longer made or sold new on Amazon, so buying one now means the used market — where it remains a strong machine and the review above still applies. If you want a new detector with a warranty, the Minelab Equinox 900 at $999.00 is the current equivalent.
The Minelab Equinox 800 is discontinued. This is the Minelab Equinox 900 — the current model, and a different detector.
Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
Related Categories
The Minelab Equinox 800 is discontinued. This is the Minelab Equinox 900 — the current model, and a different detector.
Price may vary. Last updated: Aug 17, 2026
More from Minelab
View all
Minelab Manticore
Minelab's Manticore represents the cutting edge with 2D target visualization that plots both conductivity and ferrous content simultaneously. The enhanced Multi-IQ+ processor handles complex ground conditions while IP68 waterproofing to 5 meters opens up underwater hunting. High-speed target separation catches coins masked by nearby iron.
Price may vary
Minelab Equinox 900
The Equinox 900 refines the 800's formula with Multi-IQ 2 for improved target ID stability and deeper detection. The Control Pod moves key settings to your fingertips, and 5-meter waterproofing extends dive capability. Six single frequencies give more options for optimizing to specific targets or conditions.
Price may vary
Minelab Vanquish 440
The Vanquish 440 brings Minelab's Multi-IQ technology to budget-conscious hunters. It runs multiple frequencies simultaneously—the same core technology as Equinox—without the complexity. At 2.6 lbs with AA battery power, it's practical for extended hunts and requires no ground balance adjustment.
Price may vary
Compare with Similar Detectors
Garrett AT Max
The AT Max adds Z-Lynk wireless technology with just 17ms latency—fast enough that audio feels instantaneous. True All-Metal mode bypasses discrimination for maximum depth on deep targets. Enhanced ground balance tracking and backlit display make it the most capable AT series detector for challenging conditions.
Price may vary
Garrett AT Gold
Garrett combined their proven AT waterproof platform with an 18 kHz frequency tuned for gold prospecting. Fully submersible to 10 feet, it handles stream and river hunting where gold often settles. The True All-Metal mode provides maximum depth, while Iron Audio helps distinguish gold from mineralization noise.
Price may vary
The Minelab Equinox 800 is discontinued. This is the Minelab Equinox 900 — the current model, and a different detector.