5-Second Answer
Get the 540 if you want All Metal mode, Iron Bias control, and 12" coil. Get the 440 if those features don't mean much to you yet.
Minelab Vanquish 440 vs 540
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $50.00 (Minelab Vanquish 440 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
All Metal mode is essential
Iron Bias control helps
12" coil covers more ground
Discrimination modes are enough
Simpler to learn
Tools to grow with
The $50.00 Question
The $100 upgrade to 540 adds All Metal mode (essential for relic hunting), Iron Bias control (fine-tune iron rejection), and a 12" DD coil (even more coverage). Good value if you'll use these features.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Depth Performance
Minelab Vanquish 540 Wins12" coil adds 1-2" of depth on larger targets. All Metal mode can catch targets discrimination misses.
Relic Hunting
Minelab Vanquish 540 WinsAll Metal mode is essential for relics. 540 is the only Vanquish with this critical feature.
Iron Rejection
Minelab Vanquish 540 WinsIron Bias control lets you fine-tune how the detector handles iron. 440 uses preset iron handling.
Ground Coverage
Minelab Vanquish 540 Wins12" coil covers 44% more ground than 440's 10" coil. Significant productivity boost.
Simplicity
Minelab Vanquish 440 WinsFewer features = less to learn. 440 is slightly more beginner-friendly.
Value for Money
WinsIf you'll use All Metal and Iron Bias, 540 is great value. If not, 440 saves $100 for similar performance.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Minelab Vanquish 440 | Minelab Vanquish 540 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $249.00 | $299.00 |
| Rating | 4.5★ | 4.5★ |
| Reviews | 769 | 509 |
| Operating Frequency | Multi-IQ (simultaneous multi-frequency) | Multi-IQ |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs (1.18 kg) | 2.8 lbs (1.27 kg) |
| Length | 42" to 53" adjustable | 42" to 54" adjustable |
| Coil | V10 10" x 7" DD | V12 12" x 9" DD |
| Max Depth | 8-10" (coin) | 10-12" (coin) |
| Waterproof | Coil only (IP68) | Coil only (IP68) |
| Search Modes | 4 | 6 |
| Discrimination | 5 patterns | 10 patterns |
| Ground Balance | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power | 4 AA batteries | 4 AA batteries |
| Battery Life | 15 hours | 15 hours |
| Audio | Wired headphones included | Wired headphones included |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Made In | Designed Australia | Designed Australia |
| frequency | 10 KHz | 5 KHz |
| weight | 2.6 pounds | 2.9 pounds |
| batteryLife | — | — |
| ipRating | IP54 | IP54 |
| coilSize | — | 12 Inches |
| dimensions | 10.6L x 5.3W x 57H | 57L x 10.6W x 5.3H |
| material | Metal | Iron, Metal |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Rechargeable AA NiMH Batteries |
| model | Vanquish 440 | 3820-0003 |
Pros & Cons Comparison
Pros
- Multi-IQ technology at budget price
- Very lightweight and comfortable
- Simple operation for beginners
- Great on coins and jewelry
Cons
- Control box not waterproof
- Limited customization options
- Fewer modes than Vanquish 540
Pros
- Larger 12" coil than 440
- 6 detect modes including All Metal
- Adjustable Iron Bias
- Multi-IQ handles all ground types
Cons
- Control box not waterproof
- No Bluetooth audio
- Slightly heavier than 440
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Minelab Vanquish 440 vs 540
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Minelab Vanquish 440:
Minelab Vanquish 540 ($399) for All Metal mode, or Equinox 600 ($749) for pro Multi-IQ
From Minelab Vanquish 540:
Minelab Equinox 800 ($899) for gold modes and more frequencies, or Manticore ($1,599) for 2D ID
The 440 vs 540 decision depends on your hunting style. If you hunt old home sites, want to find relics, or like to fine-tune your machine, the 540's features are worth $100. If you primarily coin shoot with discrimination and prefer simplicity, the 440 delivers 90% of the experience. The 540 is technically better, but the 440 might be the better choice for beginners.
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