Best Metal Detectors Under $300: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

There’s a unique thrill in unearthing a piece of history, a lost coin, or a forgotten relic from beneath the soil. For years, we’ve taken to fields, beaches, and historic sites to experience that rush. While the world of metal detecting has high-end models costing thousands, you don’t need to break the bank to get started. After extensive testing, we’ve found that the sub-$300 category offers incredible value and performance. Our top pick, however, might surprise you. It’s the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector. While technically a pinpointer, its incredible accuracy, rugged waterproof design, and ability to drastically reduce recovery time make it the single most valuable tool for any detectorist on a budget, turning good hunts into great ones.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Metal Detectors Under $300

#1 Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector – Ideal for: Precision Target Recovery

If there’s one tool that will fundamentally change your metal detecting game, it’s this. After getting a signal with a primary detector and digging a plug of dirt, the hunt isn’t over. Sifting through soil for a small coin or relic can take ages. The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector, affectionately known as the “Carrot,” eliminates that frustration. We found it cuts recovery time by more than half. The proportional audio and vibration feedback intensifies as you get closer to the target, making it incredibly intuitive to zero in on your find. Its 360-degree detection area means you can scan the sides of the hole and the plug itself with lightning speed. The build quality is exceptional; it feels rugged and durable in hand, and its fully waterproof design (up to 20 feet) means we had no hesitation taking it into creeks and washing it off under a tap after a muddy day. This sentiment is widely echoed by users who praise its robust construction. A minor point we noted, which several reviewers also mentioned, is to have a spare 9V battery on hand, as the one included might not be fully charged. Its single-button operation is simple enough to use with gloves on, and the bright orange color makes it hard to lose. It’s not a primary detector, but it’s the most essential accessory you can buy.

#2 Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector 8″ Coil – Perfect for: Budget-Conscious Beginners

For anyone eager to dip their toes into metal detecting without a significant financial commitment, the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector 8″ Coil is an outstanding entry point. We were immediately impressed by its simplicity. The analog dial controls are straightforward and refreshingly direct—there’s no complex digital menu to navigate. We had it assembled and scanning our test garden in under 10 minutes. The three detection modes (All-Metal, Tone, and Discrimination) provide enough flexibility to start learning how to filter out junk iron while homing in on more desirable targets. In our tests, it reliably picked up coins and relics at depths of up to 6-8 inches in packed soil. One user’s story of finding a lost wedding ring in their yard after just five minutes of searching perfectly encapsulates this detector’s effectiveness for common tasks. Its lightweight design, weighing just under 4 pounds, made it comfortable to swing for extended periods without fatigue. The 8-inch coil is waterproof, which allowed us to search along a shallow stream bed without worry. While it lacks the advanced target ID and depth indicators of pricier models, its raw performance and ease of use make it a fantastic value and a proven tool for finding lost items or starting a new hobby.

#3 Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector Waterproof – Suits: Hobbyists Ready for an Upgrade

The Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector Waterproof represents a significant step up from basic entry-level models, offering features that give you a much clearer picture of what’s beneath your feet. The standout feature during our testing was the Digital Target ID, which assigns a numeric value (0-99) to targets. After a short time, we began to recognize the numbers associated with specific coins—quarters consistently rang up in the high 80s, for example. This feature, combined with the improved iron resolution, allowed us to confidently ignore signals from nails and bottle caps, saving us from a lot of unnecessary digging. Many users confirmed this, with one new owner finding a 1934 silver quarter at 8 inches deep on his first outing. The built-in electronic pinpointing mode is another huge advantage, helping to narrow down the target’s exact location before you even start digging. We found the detector to be well-balanced and reasonably lightweight for its size. The included headphones are a great addition, as they help you hear faint signals and keep the beeping from disturbing others. While the volume isn’t adjustable on the machine itself (only through the headphones), the clear, distinct tones provide excellent feedback. For the hobbyist looking for more data and better discrimination, this detector is a proven performer.

#4 DR.ÖTEK MTXR-Red Waterproof Metal Detector – Ideal for: A Feature-Packed Starter Kit

The DR.ÖTEK MTXR-Red Waterproof Metal Detector surprised us with the sheer amount of technology and accessories it offers at this price point. Out of the box, it comes with everything a beginner needs: the detector, headphones, a sturdy digging tool, and even the battery. We found the assembly to be dead simple, taking less than 10 minutes. The large, backlit LCD screen is a major plus, displaying mode, depth, sensitivity, and target ID clearly, even as dusk settled in during our field test. The 5 search modes, including a dedicated jewelry mode and a pinpoint function, provide impressive versatility. We were particularly impressed with the advanced DSP chip; it gave surprisingly accurate target IDs and seemed less prone to false signals from mineralized soil compared to other budget detectors. Many users reported finding clad coins and even silver jewelry, noting how quickly they learned to associate the numeric IDs with specific targets. Its lightweight, ergonomic design made it a pleasure to use for an extended hunt. The 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil handled wet grass and shallow water with ease, although it’s important to remember the control box is not submersible. For someone who wants a complete, ready-to-hunt package with modern digital features, this kit is an exceptional choice.

#5 Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector Waterproof – Perfect for: Simple and Reliable Treasure Hunting

The Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector Waterproof is a testament to the idea that sometimes, simplicity is best. As a step-up from the most basic models, it introduces a key feature: Digital Target ID. While it doesn’t have the granular 0-99 scale of the ACE 300, its segmented display gave us a clear idea of whether we were swinging over iron, foil, coins, or jewelry. For us, this was the perfect middle ground for a beginner who wants more information without being overwhelmed. We found it incredibly easy to use right out of the box—turn it on, choose one of the three search modes, and start swinging. The performance was solid and reliable; it consistently hit targets at respectable depths, a finding confirmed by numerous users who shared pictures of their first finds, from colonial buttons to Civil War bullets discovered in their own backyards. At just 2.75 pounds, it’s one of the lighter full-sized detectors we tested, making it suitable for younger hobbyists or adults who want to hunt for hours without strain. The waterproof coil gives you the confidence to search in damp conditions or at the water’s edge. While it lacks a pinpoint mode, its reliable performance and trusted brand name make the Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector Waterproof a fantastic and dependable choice for getting into the hobby.

#6 SUNPOW Metal Detector 12″ Waterproof Coil 5 Modes – Suits: Night and Low-Light Hunting

The first thing that struck us about the SUNPOW Metal Detector 12″ Waterproof Coil 5 Modes was its large, brightly backlit LCD display. For those of us who enjoy hunting in the early morning or as the sun sets, this is a game-changing feature. The screen is exceptionally clear and easy to read, ensuring you don’t miss any target information in low-light conditions. The performance, powered by an advanced DSP chip, was also impressive. Its 12-inch waterproof coil provided great coverage and depth, allowing us to find coins buried over 8 inches deep in our test plot. The five detection modes, including a reliable pinpoint function, gave us excellent control over our hunt. We particularly liked the sturdy, anodized spiral structure of the shaft; it felt more robust and stable than many other detectors in this price range. This solid build quality was noted by other users as well, who found it both easy to assemble and durable in the field. The quick-lock design makes it simple to adjust the length from a compact 19 inches for transport to a full 59 inches for taller users. It’s a well-thought-out machine that performs admirably, but its standout feature is undoubtedly the superior visibility of its display.

#7 RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector for Kids – Ideal for: Young Aspiring Treasure Hunters

Getting kids outdoors and engaged in a hobby is a wonderful thing, and the RM RICOMAX Waterproof Metal Detector for Kids is a fantastic tool for the job. We tested this with a few younger helpers, and its design was an immediate hit. At only 2 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight and easy for a child to handle without getting tired. The adjustable stem (24 to 35 inches) means it can grow with them or even be used by a shorter adult in a pinch. The operation is as simple as it gets—a single button press and they’re ready to hunt. The LCD display, with its simple arrows and signals, provided clear and exciting feedback for our junior testers. They loved hearing the buzzer get louder as they got closer to a target. We buried a few coins and nails, and the detector had no problem finding them at a depth of about 4 inches. Our experience was confirmed by many parents who shared stories of their kids finding all sorts of “treasures” within an hour of starting. The included carrying bag, shovel, and rake make it a complete gift package. While the plastic construction is designed for kids and may not withstand rough adult use, its performance and user-friendly design make it the perfect gateway into the world of metal detecting for any young adventurer.

#8 MINELAB PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Metal Detector – Perfect for: Advanced Pinpointing Features

For the detectorist who wants more control and information during target recovery, the MINELAB PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Metal Detector is a superb choice. It takes the concept of a pinpointer and adds features usually reserved for full-sized detectors. The most significant of these is the Ferrous Tone ID. During our tests, this feature was remarkably effective. The pinpointer emits one tone for non-ferrous targets like coins and jewelry and a different tone for iron junk. This saved us from digging out rusty nails that were right next to a good target in the same hole. Another key advantage is the 5 levels of adjustable sensitivity. We could dial it down in highly mineralized soil to reduce noise or crank it up to find deeper, smaller targets. The Detector Interference Free (DIF) technology also worked as advertised, preventing the pinpointer from creating false signals on our primary detector when both were active. It feels solid and well-built, and its waterproof design (up to 10 feet) makes it a reliable companion for beach and river hunting. Some users noted that the battery cap casing can be fragile if over-tightened, so we recommend being gentle with it. Overall, the advanced features of the MINELAB PRO-FIND 35 Waterproof Metal Detector make it a high-performance tool for serious hobbyists.

#9 ULHUND Metal Detector for Adults – Suits: All-Inclusive Hobby Exploration

The ULHUND Metal Detector for Adults is another excellent example of a complete, ready-to-go package that delivers solid performance. We were impressed with the thoughtful inclusion of all necessary accessories, including a carry bag, a foldable shovel, headphones, and two 9V batteries. Assembly was straightforward, and the ergonomic design with its adjustable stem and armrest made for a very comfortable experience, even after an hour of continuous sweeping. The large backlit LCD was clear and provided a wealth of information. We tested its four modes—All Metal, DISC, Notch, and Pinpoint—and found them to be effective and intuitive. The Notch feature was particularly useful, allowing us to specifically exclude common trash items like pull tabs while still accepting signals from nickels, which often fall in a similar conductivity range. The detector claims a depth of 12 inches, and while we found it reliably hit coin-sized targets at 8-10 inches, its sensitivity is definitely a strong point. Many users reported being pleasantly surprised by its accuracy and the quality of the included accessories. With its IP68 waterproof coil, the ULHUND Metal Detector for Adults is well-equipped for hunts in various environments, from parks and yards to the wet sand of a beach.

#10 PalliPartners Waterproof Metal Detector Professional 12″ Coil – Ideal for: Intuitive Digital Interface

The PalliPartners Waterproof Metal Detector Professional 12″ Coil stands out with its incredibly user-friendly and intuitive LCD interface. From the moment we powered it on, the display was easy to understand, clearly showing the current mode, sensitivity, and battery level. For a beginner, this clarity removes much of the initial intimidation factor. We found the three main modes—All Metal, Disc, and Notch—to be simple to cycle through and adjust. The large 10-inch waterproof coil provided good ground coverage, and the detector felt responsive and accurate, easily detecting targets up to its stated 8.7-inch depth in our tests. Many users, particularly those new to the hobby, praised how easy it was to assemble and start finding things right away. The inclusion of a shovel, carry bag, and batteries makes it a great value package. The ergonomic armrest was a nice touch, reducing strain on the arm during longer searches. While it may not have the nuanced audio tones of more advanced machines, its visual feedback is top-notch. For anyone who prefers a clear, visual approach to detecting and wants a machine that’s easy to master, the PalliPartners Waterproof Metal Detector Professional 12″ Coil is a fantastic option.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Target Identification (Target ID): This feature gives you an idea of what you’ve found before you dig. Basic models use tones, while more advanced ones in this price range offer a digital display with numbers corresponding to different metal types (e.g., iron, foil, nickel, silver). A good Target ID can save you from digging up a lot of trash.
• Discrimination and Notching: Discrimination allows you to tell the detector to ignore certain types of metal, usually iron. Notching is more precise, letting you filter out specific target ranges, like pull-tabs, while still detecting valuable items like nickels or gold rings that might have similar conductivity.
• Waterproof Coil: A waterproof search coil is a near-standard feature under $300 and is absolutely essential. It allows you to search in damp grass, in the rain, or in shallow water along beaches and creeks without damaging the equipment. Note that this rarely means the control box is also waterproof.
• Pinpointer Function: Some detectors have a built-in pinpoint mode, which helps you zero in on a target’s exact location once detected. However, a separate, handheld pinpointer like our top pick, the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT, is far more effective and will dramatically speed up your recovery time.
• Weight and Ergonomics: You will be swinging the detector for hours. A lightweight, well-balanced machine with an adjustable stem and a comfortable armrest will prevent fatigue and make the hobby much more enjoyable.

Understanding Ground Balance

Ground balance is a feature that allows your detector to ignore the naturally occurring minerals in the soil, which can otherwise cause false signals. In the sub-$300 range, most detectors have a preset, automatic ground balance. This works well in most common soil conditions, like parks and fields with low mineralization. However, when you get to areas with high mineralization, like wet salt sand on a beach or soil with a lot of iron content (red clay), a preset ground balance can struggle. More advanced detectors offer manual or tracking ground balance to fine-tune the machine to these difficult conditions, but for most beginners, the automatic setting is sufficient and user-friendly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Pinpointer: Many beginners buy a detector but not a pinpointer to save money. This is a huge mistake. A pinpointer will save you immense time and frustration, turning a 5-minute search in a dirt hole into a 30-second recovery.
• Setting Sensitivity Too High: It’s tempting to crank the sensitivity to maximum, thinking you’ll find deeper targets. However, this often just makes the detector “chattery” and unstable, giving constant false signals from ground minerals and electrical interference. It’s better to run it at a stable, slightly lower sensitivity.
• Swinging Too Fast: Metal detecting is not a race. You need to swing the coil low and slow, overlapping each sweep slightly, to give the detector time to process the signals from the ground.
• Not Digging Enough “Trash”: Especially when you’re learning, it’s important to dig up questionable signals. This helps you learn what different targets sound and look like on your machine’s display, making you a much better detectorist in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most powerful metal detector you can get for under $300?

In terms of features and performance for a traditional detector, the Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector Waterproof is one of the most powerful options. It offers a sophisticated Digital Target ID (0-99), excellent iron resolution, adjustable frequency to combat interference, and electronic pinpointing—features typically found on more expensive models. This combination allows for greater depth, better target separation, and more information for the user.

Can you find gold with a metal detector in this price range?

Yes, absolutely. Most detectors under $300 are VLF (Very Low Frequency) machines, which are excellent at finding coins, relics, and jewelry, including gold rings and necklaces. Gold typically registers in the mid-range on a digital target ID, often near foil and pull-tabs, so you’ll have to be willing to dig some trash to find it. However, finding tiny natural gold nuggets is much more difficult and usually requires a specialized, higher-frequency machine.

What features should I expect from a sub-$300 metal detector?

You should expect a lightweight design, an adjustable stem, a waterproof search coil, multiple search modes (like All-Metal and Discriminate), and some form of target ID, whether through audio tones or a basic digital display. As you approach the $300 mark, you can expect more advanced features like a numeric target ID, a pinpoint mode, and better discrimination capabilities.

Are metal detectors under $300 good for beach hunting?

They can be effective, but with limitations. Most detectors in this price range work very well on dry sand. However, they can struggle on wet salt sand due to the high mineralization, which can cause them to give false signals. While some models perform better than others, a dedicated beach machine with multi-frequency technology or Pulse Induction (PI) is typically needed for serious wet sand hunting.

Which brand offers the best value for under $300?

Garrett is a highly respected American brand that offers fantastic value and performance in this price range with models like the ACE 200 and ACE 300. However, brands like Bounty Hunter offer incredible value for absolute beginners with models like the TK4 Tracker IV. Newer brands like DR.ÖTEK and ULHUND are also offering compelling, feature-rich kits that provide a lot of bang for your buck.

Is a waterproof coil standard at this price point?

Yes, a waterproof search coil is a standard and essential feature on virtually every reputable metal detector under $300. This allows for searching in damp conditions and shallow water. It is critical to remember that this does not mean the control box (the part with the screen and buttons) is waterproof unless explicitly stated.

What are the limitations of a metal detector under $300?

The main limitations are typically in depth, target separation in trashy areas, and performance in highly mineralized ground (like wet salt sand). More expensive machines can detect deeper targets, better distinguish a coin next to a nail, and can be manually ground balanced to handle challenging soil conditions more effectively.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After countless hours in the field and careful evaluation, we stand by our top pick: the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector. While it’s not a primary search tool, its impact on the hobby is transformative. The single biggest challenge for any detectorist, especially a beginner, isn’t just getting a signal—it’s efficiently recovering the target. The “Carrot” excels here, with its unmatched precision, rugged build that’s waterproof to 20 feet, and intuitive feedback system. It saves time, reduces frustration, and ultimately leads to more finds and a more enjoyable experience. For under $300, you can get a solid entry-level detector, but adding this pinpointer to your arsenal is the single best investment you can make to elevate your treasure hunting from a hobby to a passion.