5-Second Answer
Get the 800 if gold hunting or beach hunting matters - the extra frequencies and gold modes are essential. Get the 600 if you only hunt parks and coins.
Minelab Equinox 600 vs 800
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $149.00 (Minelab Equinox 600 is cheaper)
Head-to-Head Ratings
Our expert scores based on field testing and user data
Who Wins By Use Case?
Find your scenario instantly
Gold modes essential
40 kHz sees small gold better
Both excellent for coins
Same Multi-IQ performance
Equal capabilities
Save $150, still amazing
The $149.00 Question
The $150 upgrade to 800 adds gold prospecting modes, 4 kHz and 40 kHz frequencies, and additional settings. Worth it if you hunt gold or want maximum versatility.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Gold Hunting
Minelab Equinox 800 Wins800 has dedicated Gold modes and 40 kHz frequency. 600 lacks these entirely. Essential for gold prospecting.
Frequency Options
Minelab Equinox 800 Wins800 adds 4 kHz (deep silver) and 40 kHz (small gold). 600 has 5, 10, 15 kHz + Multi-IQ.
Coin Hunting
TieBoth excellent. 600's frequencies cover coin hunting perfectly. 800's 4 kHz helps with deep silver but not essential.
Beach Hunting
TieBoth handle saltwater via Multi-IQ. No difference in beach performance.
Relic Hunting
TieBoth excellent for relics. Same depth and discrimination capabilities.
Value for Money
Wins600 is better value if you don't need gold modes. 800 is worth $150 if you want complete capability.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Minelab Equinox 600 | Minelab Equinox 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $799.00 | $948.00 |
| Rating | 4.7★ | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 1,258 | 1,258 |
| Operating Frequency | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15 kHz + multi) | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) |
| Weight | 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg) | 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg) |
| Length | 48" to 55.5" adjustable | 48" to 55.5" adjustable |
| Coil | EQX 11" DD | EQX 11" DD |
| Max Depth | 10-12" (coin) | 10-12" (coin) |
| Waterproof | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) |
| Search Modes | 4 | 8 (4 base + 4 custom) |
| Discrimination | 50 segments | 50 segments |
| Ground Balance | Auto + Manual | Auto + Manual |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion | Rechargeable Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 12 hours | 12-14 hours |
| Audio | Wired + Bluetooth | Bluetooth + wired |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Made In | Designed Australia | Designed Australia |
| frequency | 5 KHz | 5 KHz |
| weight | 2.96 pounds | 6 pounds |
| batteryLife | 12 Hours | — |
| ipRating | IP54 | IP67 or higher |
| coilSize | 27.94 Centimeters | — |
| dimensions | 12.28L x 4.96W x 56.7H | — |
| material | Stainless Steel | Plastic |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | 3720-0002 | Equinox 800 |
Pros & Cons Comparison
Pros
- Multi-IQ at lower price than 800
- Fully waterproof to 10 ft
- 4 single frequency options
- Same coil as Equinox 800
Cons
- Fewer frequencies than 800 (no 20/40 kHz)
- Fewer customization options
- No Gold modes
Pros
- Multi-IQ technology handles any ground conditions
- Fully waterproof for beach and shallow diving
- Excellent depth on coins and relics
- Fast target recovery
Cons
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- No threshold tone in some modes
- Battery not field-replaceable
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Minelab Equinox 600 vs 800
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Minelab Equinox 600:
Minelab Equinox 800 ($899) for gold modes, or Equinox 900 ($1,199) for max depth and waterproofing
From Minelab Equinox 800:
Minelab Equinox 900 ($1,199) for incremental upgrade, or Manticore ($1,599) for 2D target ID
The 600 vs 800 decision is about gold and versatility. If you have ANY interest in gold hunting - either prospecting or finding gold jewelry - get the 800. The gold modes and 40 kHz frequency are essential for that application. If you're strictly a coin and relic hunter with no gold ambitions, the 600 gives you 90% of the 800's capability and saves $150. Both are excellent Multi-IQ machines that will serve you for years.
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