5-Second Answer
Get the Equinox 800 for best value - 90% of Manticore performance at 56% of the price. Get Manticore only if 2D Target ID and max depth are essential.
Minelab Equinox 800 vs Manticore
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $651.00 (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
Extra depth finds what others miss
2D ID separates targets in iron
Every advantage matters
Better value, excellent performance
Both excel at beach work
Save $700 for accessories
The $651.00 Question
The Manticore costs $700 MORE than Equinox 800. That's a significant jump for 2D Target ID, slightly more depth, and the latest technology. Hard to justify for most hunters.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Depth Performance
Minelab Manticore WinsManticore gains 2-3 inches on deep targets. Significant advantage in hunted-out areas.
Target ID
Minelab Manticore Wins2D Target ID shows conductivity AND ferrous content simultaneously. Revolutionary for target analysis.
Ground Handling
TieBoth have excellent Multi-IQ ground balance. Manticore slightly more refined but not dramatically.
Ease of Use
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsEquinox is more intuitive. Manticore's 2D display requires significant learning curve.
Build Quality
Minelab Manticore WinsManticore has improved build, better shaft, enhanced waterproofing (15ft vs 10ft).
Value
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsEquinox at $899 vs Manticore at $1,599. Not close for value-conscious buyers.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Minelab Equinox 800 | Minelab Manticore |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $948.00 | $1,599.00 |
| Rating | 4.7★ | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 1,258 | 162 |
| Operating Frequency | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) | Multi-IQ+ (5 to 35 kHz simultaneous) |
| Weight | 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg) | 3.09 lbs (1.4 kg) |
| Length | 48" to 55.5" adjustable | 48" to 55" adjustable |
| Coil | EQX 11" DD | M15 11" x 9" 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) | 10+ |
| Discrimination | 50 segments | 2D visualization |
| Ground Balance | Auto + Manual | Auto + Manual |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion | Rechargeable Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 12-14 hours | 10-15 hours |
| Audio | Bluetooth + wired | Bluetooth aptX LL |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Made In | Designed Australia | Designed Australia, Made Malaysia |
| frequency | 5 KHz | 12 KHz |
| weight | 6 pounds | 2.9 pounds |
| batteryLife | — | — |
| ipRating | IP67 or higher | IP68 |
| coilSize | — | — |
| dimensions | — | 12.8L x 4.13W x 26.77H |
| material | Plastic | Metal |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | Equinox 800 | 3228-0200 |
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
- Multi-IQ+ provides unmatched target ID
- 2D target visualization is revolutionary
- Fully waterproof to 16 feet for diving
- Incredible target separation in trash
Cons
- Premium price point at $1599
- Complex for beginners
- Rechargeable battery not user-replaceable in field
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Minelab Equinox 800 vs Manticore
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Minelab Equinox 800:
Minelab Manticore ($1,599) for maximum capability, or Equinox 900 ($1,199) for incremental upgrade
From Minelab Manticore:
Already flagship tier. GPX 6000 ($6,499) for dedicated gold prospecting is the only 'up' from here.
This comparison highlights the law of diminishing returns in detecting. The Manticore is objectively Minelab's best detector - deeper, smarter, more capable. But the Equinox 800 delivers 90% of that performance at 56% of the price. Unless you're hunting picked-clean sites where inches matter, or you want to master 2D Target ID, the $700 saved buys a lot of accessories, gas, and hunt club memberships. Equinox 800 remains the smart choice for most.
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