5-Second Answer
Get the Equinox 800 - it's $300 cheaper with 95% of the performance. Only get the 900 if you NEED the extra depth or plan to dive below 10 feet.
Minelab Equinox 800 vs Equinox 900
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $51.00 (Minelab Equinox 800 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
Same performance, save $300
Both handle salt equally well
20ft vs 10ft waterproof rating
Identical gold modes and frequencies
Every inch of depth matters
$300 savings for near-identical results
The $51.00 Question
The $300 price gap is significant. The 900 adds Control Pod improvements, slightly more depth, and 20ft waterproofing (vs 10ft on 800). For most hunters, the 800's 10ft rating covers any realistic scenario.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Depth Performance
Minelab Equinox 900 WinsThe 900 gains 1-2 inches in optimal conditions. On deep targets at 10"+, you might notice. On typical 6-8" targets, identical.
Target ID Accuracy
TieSame Multi-IQ engine, same target ID accuracy. Both are class-leading for target separation in iron.
Ground Handling
TieIdentical ground balance systems. Both excel in any ground conditions from beaches to goldfields.
Ease of Use
Minelab Equinox 900 Wins900's redesigned control pod is more intuitive. Better button placement and improved display. But 800 is still straightforward.
Build Quality
Minelab Equinox 900 Wins900 has improved shaft locks and slightly better waterproof rating. 800 is still excellent but 900 feels more refined.
Value for Money
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsThis isn't close. The 800 gives you 95% of the 900 at 75% of the price. Best value in multi-frequency detecting.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Minelab Equinox 800 | Minelab Equinox 900 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $948.00 | $999.00 |
| Rating | 4.7★ | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 1,258 | 1,258 |
| Operating Frequency | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) | Multi-IQ 2 (4-40 kHz range) |
| 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) | 12-14" (coin) |
| Waterproof | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) | IP68 to 5 meters (16 ft) |
| Search Modes | 8 (4 base + 4 custom) | 8+ |
| Discrimination | 50 segments | 50+ segments |
| Ground Balance | Auto + Manual | High-resolution auto + manual |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion | Rechargeable Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 12-14 hours | 12-14 hours |
| Audio | Bluetooth + wired | Bluetooth aptX LL |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Made In | Designed Australia | Designed Australia |
| frequency | 5 KHz | 5 KHz |
| weight | 6 pounds | 2.8 pounds |
| batteryLife | — | — |
| ipRating | IP67 or higher | IP68 |
| coilSize | — | — |
| dimensions | — | 12L x 11W x 56.5H |
| material | Plastic | Plastic |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | Equinox 800 | 3720-0006 |
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Pros
- Deeper than Equinox 800
- Improved Multi-IQ 2 technology
- Control Pod for all-in-one adjustment
- Deeper waterproof rating (16 ft)
Cons
- $300 more than Equinox 800
- Significant differences may not justify upgrade for 800 owners
- Complex for first-time users
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Minelab Equinox 800 vs Equinox 900
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Minelab Equinox 800:
Minelab Manticore ($1,599) for 2D target ID and maximum depth
From Minelab Equinox 900:
Minelab Manticore ($1,599) or GPX 6000 ($6,499) for dedicated gold prospecting
The Equinox 800 vs 900 debate is simple math. The 900 is objectively better - slightly deeper, more waterproof, refined controls. But the 800 is $300 cheaper and delivers 95%+ of the performance. Unless you're a competitive hunter chasing every fraction of an inch, or a diver going deep, save the $300 and put it toward a good pinpointer and digging tools. The Equinox 800 remains the detector to beat in 2026.
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