Finding hidden treasures isn’t just about luck—it’s about having the right tools for the job. If you’ve ever gone treasure hunting and come back empty-handed, chances are your metal detector wasn’t up to the task. That’s where things get interesting because not all metal detectors are created equal. Some are built for casual beachcombers, others for serious treasure hunters, and a few are designed to handle just about anything you throw at them.
The truth is, the perfect metal detector for one person might not work as well for someone else. Why? Because everyone hunts in different places, for different reasons, and with different goals in mind. Maybe you’re combing sandy beaches for lost jewelry, exploring muddy riverbanks, or even diving underwater for sunken relics. Or maybe you’re just trying to find old coins in your backyard. Whatever your vibe, there’s a metal detector out there that’s tailor-made for you.
In this article, I’m breaking down the top 5 best metal detectors of 2025—each one picked for its unique strengths and features. And don’t worry—I’ll explain why each one stands out so you can make the best choice for your next adventure.
Minelab Equinox 900
Key Features:
- Advanced Multi IQ Technology
- Waterproof Design (up to 16 ft)
- High-Resolution Target ID Technology
- Lightweight and Ergonomic Design
- Adaptability to different environmental conditions.
- Enhanced ability to sort through valuables and trash.
- Ideal for underwater exploration.
Let’s kick things off with the Minelab Equinox 900, a metal detector that’s earned its spot as one of the most talked-about options in the treasure-hunting world. The Equinox 900 is packed with Advanced Multi-IQ Technology, which is basically like giving your metal detector a super-smart brain. This tech allows it to automatically use five frequencies at the same time. Why does that matter? Because different metals respond better to different frequencies. It’s like having five metal detectors rolled into one, and that’s a huge deal if you’re serious about finding valuables instead of coming home empty-handed.
But wait, there’s more. One of the standout features of the Equinox 900 is its waterproof design. Yep, you heard that right. This bad boy can handle being submerged in water up to 16 feet deep. That means you can take it snorkeling, wading through rivers, or even full-on underwater treasure hunting without worrying about damaging it. For anyone who loves exploring lakes, ponds, or ocean floors, this feature alone makes the Equinox 900 worth considering. Plus, it opens up a whole new world of possibilities for finding hidden treasures that most people wouldn’t even think to look for.
Now, let’s talk about Target ID Technology. The Equinox 900 comes with a high-resolution Target ID system that helps you figure out exactly what you’re digging for before you even start digging. It gives you detailed info about the size, depth, and type of target, so you can decide whether it’s worth your time. No one likes spending hours digging up bottle caps or random bits of trash, right? With this detector, you can quickly sort through the junk and focus on the good stuff, like coins, jewelry, or even ancient relics.
Another thing I absolutely love about the Equinox 900 is how lightweight and comfortable it is. Metal detecting isn’t exactly a quick hobby—it often involves hours of walking, swinging the detector, and crouching to dig. A heavy or awkwardly designed detector can leave your arms feeling like noodles by the end of the day. But not the Equinox 900. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to handle, even during those long treasure-hunting sessions. Plus, the display screen is clear and intuitive, keeping you informed about your findings and settings without any hassle.
And here’s the cherry on top: the audio feedback. The Equinox 900 doesn’t just rely on visuals to tell you what’s beneath the surface—it also uses sound. The audio system is incredibly responsive and customizable, so you can fine-tune it to match your preferences. It’s like having a personal assistant whispering in your ear, “Hey, there’s something cool over here!”
So, who is the Minelab Equinox 900 best for? Honestly, it’s a great fit for just about anyone. If you’re a beginner, you’ll appreciate how user-friendly it is. If you’re an experienced hunter, you’ll love the advanced features and customization options. And if you like to switch between terrains—from dry land to underwater—the waterproof design and multi-frequency tech make it a no-brainer.
XP Metal Detector Deus II
Key Features:
- Wireless Fast Multi-Frequency Technology
- Comfortable and User-Friendly Design
- Customizable Programs
- Unprecedented accuracy in detecting targets.
- Advanced iron discrimination capabilities.
- Tailored settings for specific hunting conditions.
Let’s talk about the XP Deus II, a metal detector that’s quickly becoming a favorite among treasure hunters of all levels. If you’re looking for something that combines cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features—and doesn’t break the bank—this might just be the perfect fit for you. Trust me, once you hear about everything this detector can do, you’ll understand why it’s earned its spot as one of the best metal detectors of 2025.
First things first, the XP Deus II is all about Wireless Fast Multi-Frequency Technology. Now, I know that sounds like a mouthful, but here’s what it really means: this detector uses multiple frequencies at the same time to give you unparalleled accuracy when it comes to finding targets. And because it’s wireless, you don’t have to deal with tangled cords or bulky setups. It’s sleek, modern, and designed to keep up with your pace, no matter where you’re hunting.
But the tech doesn’t stop there. One of the standout features of the Deus II is its advanced iron discrimination capabilities. Let’s face it—no one likes digging up bottle caps, nails, or random bits of trash. With this detector, you can filter out those unwanted targets and focus on uncovering the good stuff. It’s like having a built-in assistant that says, “Hey, skip this one—it’s not worth your time.” This feature alone can save you hours of frustration and make your hunts way more productive.
Now, let’s talk about customization. The Deus II comes with 12 fully customizable user programs, which means you can tweak just about every setting. Want to adjust the sensitivity? Done. Need to fine-tune the frequency? No problem. You can even save your favorite settings so you don’t have to start from scratch every time you head out. This level of control is perfect for both beginners who are still learning the ropes and seasoned pros who want to dial in their setup for maximum efficiency.
Another thing I absolutely love about the Deus II is how comfortable it is to use. Metal detecting isn’t exactly a quick hobby—it often involves hours of walking, swinging the detector, and crouching to dig. A poorly designed detector can leave your arms feeling like jelly by the end of the day. But the Deus II? It’s lightweight, ergonomic, and built with long hunting sessions in mind. Even after hours of use, you’ll barely notice you’re holding it. Plus, the intuitive menu system makes it easy to navigate through your settings without any hassle. You won’t need a PhD in metal detecting to figure this thing out.
And here’s something else that’s pretty cool: the Deus II is packed with user-friendly features that make treasure hunting feel like a breeze. For example, the display screen is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. It gives you all the info you need—like target depth, type, and size—at a glance. And the audio feedback is just as impressive.
So, who is the XP Deus II best for? Honestly, it’s a great fit for just about anyone. If you’re a beginner, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to use and how much help it gives you in sorting through junk. If you’re an experienced hunter, you’ll love the advanced features and customization options. And if you want high-quality performance without paying top dollar, this detector delivers serious bang for your buck.
Garrett Robertson Signature A.T. Max
Key Features:
- Exclusive Ground Balance and Iron Audio Technology
- Waterproof Build (up to 10 ft)
- Z-Link Wireless Technology
- Reduces ground response in mineralized areas.
- Great depth detection capabilities.
- Durable build suitable for various terrains.
Next is Garrett Robertson Signature A.T. Max, a metal detector that’s earned its reputation as a rugged, reliable tool for treasure hunters who like to explore all kinds of environments. One of the first things you’ll notice about the A.T. Max is its exclusive ground balance and iron audio technology. Ground balance is one of those features that sounds fancy but is actually super practical. It helps the detector adjust to mineralized soil, which can mess with your readings when hunting in rocky or sandy areas. This means you won’t waste time digging up false signals caused by the ground itself. And then there’s the iron audio feature—this lets you hear when the detector is picking up unwanted iron targets, like bottle caps or washers, so you can skip them entirely.
Another big selling point of the A.T. Max is its waterproof design. This thing can handle being submerged in water up to 10 feet deep, making it perfect for underwater excursions or hunting near rivers and lakes.
Now, let’s talk about depth detection. One of the standout qualities of the A.T. Max is its ability to find targets buried deep beneath the surface. Some metal detectors struggle with depth, especially in tough terrains, but not this one. It’s designed to uncover valuable items that are hidden way down there, giving you an edge when you’re hunting in areas that have been picked over before. Combine that with its iron discrimination and ground balance tech, and you’ve got a detector that’s ready to tackle just about anything.
Comfort is another area where the A.T. Max really shines. Metal detecting often involves long hours of swinging the device back and forth, and if it’s heavy or awkward, your arms will feel like noodles by the end of the day. But the A.T. Max is built with ergonomics in mind. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, even during extended hunting sessions. Plus, the intuitive controls make it simple to adjust settings on the fly without needing to dig through complicated menus. You can focus on the hunt instead of fumbling with buttons.
And here’s something else that’s pretty cool: the Z-Link Wireless Technology. This feature allows you to connect wireless headphones directly to the detector, cutting down on cord clutter and giving you more freedom to move around. Pair that with the clear audio feedback, and you’ll always know exactly what you’re dealing with before you start digging.
The A.T. Max also comes with built-in z-link wireless tech, which adds to the seamless experience. You won’t have to worry about tangled wires or losing connection mid-hunt. Everything just works, and that’s exactly what you want when you’re out there chasing treasures.
So, who is the Garrett Robertson Signature A.T. Max best for? Honestly, it’s a great fit for just about anyone. If you’re a beginner, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to use and how much help it gives you in sorting through junk. If you’re an experienced hunter, you’ll love the advanced features like ground balance and iron audio.
Minelab Manticore
Key Features:
- Advanced Multi IQ Technology
- IP68 Waterproof Rating (up to 16 ft)
- 2D Target ID Map and Rich Audio Options
- Lightweight and Foldable Construction
- Remarkable accuracy across diverse terrains.
- Enhanced discrimination for quickly finding valuables.
- Comfortable for extended use and easy transport.
The Minelab Manticore is a metal detector that truly lives up to the hype. It’s packed with features designed to make treasure hunting easier, more accurate, and downright enjoyable. This might be the perfect choice for anyone who wants a high-end device without compromising on performance or convenience. Here’s why the Manticore stands out as one of the best overall metal detectors of 2025.
One of the standout qualities of the Manticore is its Advanced Multi-IQ Technology. This feature allows the detector to operate across multiple frequencies simultaneously, ensuring it can handle a wide variety of targets in different terrains. Another impressive aspect of the Manticore is its IP68 waterproof rating, which means it can be submerged in water up to 16 feet deep.
The 2D Target ID Map is another feature worth highlighting. This advanced display gives you detailed information about your targets, including their size, depth, and type. Instead of guessing what’s beneath the surface, you’ll have a clear picture before you even start digging. Combine that with the rich audio options, and you’ve got a detector that communicates exactly what you need to know in real-time.
Comfort is another area where the Manticore shines. Metal detecting often involves long hours of swinging the device back and forth, and if it’s heavy or awkward, fatigue can set in quickly. The Manticore solves this problem with its ultra-lightweight build. Even after hours of use, you’ll barely notice the weight. Plus, its foldable design makes it easy to pack up and transport.
Another detail that sets the Manticore apart is its enhanced discrimination capabilities. Sorting through trash can be frustrating, but this detector makes it easier to identify valuable items while ignoring unwanted junk. It’s precise, efficient, and saves you time by focusing only on the targets worth your attention.
So who benefits most from the Minelab Manticore? Hunters who want top-tier performance without sacrificing ease of use will love this detector. It’s built for serious treasure seekers who demand accuracy, adaptability, and comfort. At the same time, its user-friendly features make it accessible for beginners who are still learning the ropes.
Nokta The Legend Metal Detector
Key Features:
- Waterproof Build (IP68 rating, up to 10 ft)
- Multi-Frequency Technology
- Long-lasting battery Life (up to 20 hours)
- Great depth capabilities ensure no treasure is missed.
- Adaptable to multiple types of terrain.
- Affordable yet packed with quality detection technology.
The Minelab Equinox 900 is a metal detector that truly stands out in the crowded world of treasure-hunting gear. It’s packed with features designed to make your hunts more productive, no matter where you’re searching or what you’re looking for. One of the standout qualities of the Equinox 900 is its Advanced Multi-IQ Technology. This feature allows the detector to operate across multiple frequencies at the same time, giving it an edge when it comes to finding different types of metals. Gold, silver, copper, iron—this detector doesn’t discriminate. The ability to use five frequencies simultaneously means it can handle all kinds of soil conditions and terrains without breaking a sweat.
Another impressive aspect of the Equinox 900 is its waterproof design. This isn’t just splash-proof or rain-resistant—it’s fully submersible up to 16 feet. The high-resolution Target ID technology is another feature worth highlighting. This advanced system gives you detailed information about your targets, including their size, depth, and type. Instead of guessing what’s beneath the surface, you’ll have a clear picture before you even start digging. Combine that with the superior audio control, and you’ve got a detector that communicates exactly what you need to know in real-time.
Comfort is another area where the Equinox 900 shines. Metal detecting often involves long hours of swinging the device back and forth, and if it’s heavy or awkward, fatigue can set in quickly. The Equinox 900 solves this problem with its lightweight and ergonomic design. Even after hours of use, you’ll barely notice the weight. Plus, its intuitive display keeps you informed about your findings and the device’s settings without any hassle.
Another detail that sets the Equinox 900 apart is its ability to sort through trash and treasure. Sorting through junk can be frustrating, but this detector makes it easier to identify valuable items while ignoring unwanted scraps. It’s precise, efficient, and saves you time by focusing only on the targets worth your attention.
For anyone who wants a metal detector that can handle any terrain and provide powerful technology to help find valuables, the Equinox 900 is a top contender. It’s built for serious treasure seekers who demand accuracy, adaptability, and comfort. At the same time, its user-friendly features make it accessible for beginners who are still learning the ropes.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, choosing the right metal detector comes down to understanding your needs and matching them with the features that best suit your treasure-hunting style. Each of the top five metal detectors we’ve covered in this article brings something unique to the table, ensuring there’s an option for every type of adventurer.
No matter which metal detector you choose, one thing is clear: having the right tool can make all the difference in your treasure-hunting adventures. So, take your time, think about where and how you plan to hunt, and pick the one that aligns with your goals.
