Metal Detector Comparisons 2026
Struggling to choose between two detectors? Our detailed side-by-side comparisons break down specs, price, performance, and value to help you make the right decision.
18
Comparisons
4
Top Brands
100%
Expert Analysis
Brand vs Brand Showdowns
Garrett ACE 400
$357.95
4.6★
Minelab Vanquish 440
$249.00
4.5★
The ACE 400 offers adjustable frequency and Iron Audio, while the Vanquish 440 brings Multi-IQ technology. ACE 400 wins for features, Vanquish for versatility.
Nokta Legend
$549.00
4.7★
Minelab Equinox 800
$948.00
4.7★
Both offer multi-frequency, but the Legend costs $200 less, has a larger coil, and gets free firmware updates. Legend wins on value.
Garrett AT Pro
$549.99
4.6★
Nokta Simplex+
$299.00
4.5★
AT Pro has Pro Audio features and higher frequency, but costs twice as much. Simplex+ wins on value for beginners, AT Pro for serious hobbyists.
Garrett ACE 300
$269.99
4.6★
Nokta Simplex+
$299.00
4.5★
Simplex+ offers full waterproof capability, rechargeable battery, and wireless audio at similar price. Clear winner for most users.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT
$109.99
4.8★
Minelab Pro-Find 35
$99.00
4.6★
Garrett is deeper waterproof (20 ft vs 10 ft). Minelab has DIF and ferrous discrimination. Garrett wins for divers.
Minelab Gold Monster 1000
$799.00
4.2★
Fisher Gold Bug Pro
$339.00
4.4★
Gold Monster has higher frequency (45 kHz vs 19 kHz) and automatic operation. Fisher wins on price and weight.
Garrett ACE 400
$357.95
4.6★
Nokta Simplex+
$299.00
4.5★
Simplex+ offers full waterproof, rechargeable battery for $80 less. ACE 400 has adjustable frequency and Iron Audio.
Same Brand - Model Upgrades
Comparing models within the same brand? These comparisons help you decide if the upgrade is worth the extra cost.
Minelab Equinox 800
$948.00
Minelab Equinox 900
$999.00
The 900 is deeper and has better waterproofing, but the 800 offers nearly identical performance at $300 less. 800 wins on value.
Garrett ACE 300
$269.99
Garrett ACE 400
$357.95
ACE 400 adds adjustable frequency and Iron Audio for $100 more. Worth the upgrade for serious hobbyists, but ACE 300 is excellent for pure beginners.
Minelab Vanquish 340
$199.00
Minelab Vanquish 440
$249.00
Vanquish 440 has larger coil and more modes for $80 more. Worth the upgrade unless on tight budget.
Minelab Vanquish 440
$249.00
Minelab Vanquish 540
$299.00
540 adds All Metal mode, Iron Bias, and larger 12" coil. Best Vanquish for those with $100 extra.
Nokta Simplex+
$299.00
Nokta Legend
$549.00
Legend brings multi-frequency for $330 more. Simplex wins on value, Legend wins on performance.
Minelab X-Terra Pro
$283.62
Minelab X-Terra Elite
$421.64
Elite adds 3 more frequencies and larger coil for $150 more. Elite wins for versatility.
Garrett AT Pro
$549.99
Garrett AT Max
$830.98
AT Max adds Z-Lynk wireless and True All-Metal mode for $150 more. AT Pro wins on value.
Fisher F22
$227.99
Fisher F44
$307.00
F44 adds manual ground balance and larger coil for $100 more. F44 wins for more challenging ground.
Minelab Equinox 600
$799.00
Minelab Equinox 800
$948.00
800 adds more frequencies and Gold modes for $150 more. 800 wins for versatility, 600 wins on value.
Minelab Equinox 800
$948.00
Minelab Manticore
$1,599.00
Manticore has 2D target ID and deeper waterproofing but costs $800 more. Equinox 800 wins on value for most hunters.
Nokta Simplex Ultra
$409.00
Nokta Legend
$549.00
Both have multi-frequency, but Legend has more features and larger coil. Legend wins unless you prefer Simplex ergonomics.
How We Compare Detectors
Technical Specifications
We compare operating frequency, depth capability, waterproofing, discrimination, and ground balance features.
Real-World Performance
Based on user reviews and field testing in various conditions: parks, beaches, mineralized ground, and trashy sites.
Value for Money
We evaluate features per dollar, included accessories, and long-term reliability to determine the best value.
Use Case Fit
Different detectors excel at different tasks. We help you find the right match for your detecting goals.