5-Second Answer
Get the Nokta Legend to save $200+ while getting 90% of the Equinox experience. Get the Equinox 800 if you want the proven industry standard with larger accessory ecosystem.
Nokta Legend vs Minelab Equinox 800
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $399.00 (Nokta Legend 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
Both excel equally
Slightly better salt handling
Same waterproof, lower replacement cost
Larger stock coil covers more ground
Slightly better small gold response
Save $200+ for same tier performance
The $399.00 Question
The Legend undercuts the Equinox 800 by $200-250 while offering multi-frequency, free firmware updates, and a larger stock coil. Minelab's premium buys you a more established platform and wider coil selection.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Depth Performance
TieBoth reach similar depths in field tests. The Legend's 12" stock coil may give slight advantage on deep targets. Equinox's refined algorithms are slightly better in mineralized ground.
Target ID Accuracy
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsMinelab's Multi-IQ has more refinement after years of development. Target numbers are slightly more consistent, especially on deep targets.
Ground Handling
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsEquinox's ground balance is still the benchmark. Legend is very good, but Equinox handles extreme mineralization slightly better.
Features & Updates
Nokta Legend WinsLegend gets FREE firmware updates with new features regularly. Nokta actively develops based on user feedback. Equinox updates are rare.
Build Quality
Minelab Equinox 800 WinsBoth are solid, but Equinox feels more premium. Legend is well-built but has slightly more plastic feel.
Value for Money
Nokta Legend WinsLegend is $200+ cheaper, includes larger coil, wireless headphones, and gets free updates. Best value in multi-frequency.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Nokta Legend | Minelab Equinox 800 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549.00 | $948.00 |
| Rating | 4.7★ | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 92 | 1,258 |
| Operating Frequency | SMF (4-40 kHz + single) | Multi-IQ (5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz) |
| Weight | 2.86 lbs (1.3 kg) | 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg) |
| Length | 44" to 53" adjustable | 48" to 55.5" adjustable |
| Coil | LG30 12" x 9" DD | EQX 11" DD |
| Max Depth | 12-14" (coin) | 10-12" (coin) |
| Waterproof | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) | IP68 to 3 meters (10 ft) |
| Search Modes | 8 | 8 (4 base + 4 custom) |
| Discrimination | 40 segments | 50 segments |
| Ground Balance | Auto + Manual + Tracking | Auto + Manual |
| Power | Rechargeable Li-ion | Rechargeable Li-ion |
| Battery Life | 20 hours | 12-14 hours |
| Audio | Bluetooth aptX + wired | Bluetooth + wired |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years |
| Made In | Turkey | Designed Australia |
| frequency | — | 5 KHz |
| weight | 3 pounds | 6 pounds |
| batteryLife | 20 Hours | — |
| ipRating | IP68 | IP67 or higher |
| coilSize | — | — |
| dimensions | 51.97L x 25.59W x 51.97H | — |
| material | Metal, Plastic | Plastic |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | ['11000838'] | Equinox 800 |
Pros & Cons Comparison
Pros
- Multi-frequency at mid-range price
- Free firmware updates add features
- Larger 12" x 9" coil included
- Fully waterproof to 10 ft
Cons
- Menus can be complex
- Heavier than some competitors
- Not as well-known brand in US
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 Nokta Legend vs Minelab Equinox 800
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Nokta Legend:
Nokta The Legend Pro (when released) or Minelab Manticore for next-level performance
From Minelab Equinox 800:
Minelab Equinox 900 for incremental upgrade, or Manticore for 2D target ID
This comparison represents the disruption in metal detecting. The Equinox 800 set the standard, and Nokta responded with the Legend - a detector that matches it in most areas while costing significantly less. If brand prestige and the absolute best ground handling matter to you, get the Equinox. If you want the best bang-for-buck multi-frequency detector with ongoing improvements, the Legend is the smart choice. Both will find everything in your local park.
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