Top best metal detectors from Aliexpress 2021, which one is better to buy

Is it worth starting treasure hunting?

In principle, Chinese metal detectors may provide the answer. Moreover, for relatively little money.

Regardless of the motive: introduction to amateur archeology, greed, idleness - a novice treasure hunter will give his hard-earned rubles, dollars or euros for a Chinese craft or for a European or American device.

Aliexpress, Gearbest, Banggood and other trading platforms offer devices that look like a metal detector and often even work. Let's figure out whether it's worth investing even a little money in these metal detectors.

What to look for when choosing a metal detector

To begin with, study the most important characteristics in order to build on them when choosing a specific model. There are not very many of them, so it will not be difficult to understand this issue and find the best option for your needs:

1. Operating frequency range. The larger it is, the wider the capabilities of the device. Inexpensive models may have one frequency, but here you need to remember the following: the lower it is, the deeper the search. But at the same time, small objects (jewelry, rings, etc.) are less easily detected. A high range allows you to search for small things, but the depth will be small.
2. Search depth. There may be different options, mainly the indicator depends on the calibration of the device, the same model can show different results. It is important to set up your metal detector well.
3. Discrimination is the name given to the ability of equipment to distinguish between different metals. This factor depends on the quality of the components, so in expensive models the sensitivity is much better.
4. Pinpoint allows you to clearly determine at what depth the found object is located.
5. Type of food. Most often, metal detectors use AA or Krona batteries. You should choose based on convenience; it is better to immediately purchase batteries and a charger.
6. Reel size and design. The larger it is, the more effective the search at depth. Small options are good for detecting small objects. To search for gold, it is better to select a coil that is resistant to mineralization.

For your information!

You need to pay attention to the weight of the product and the presence of shoulder straps. Even not very heavy equipment will be difficult to carry in your hands for several hours.

It is best to select several options and compare them so that you can compare the characteristics and find the optimal solution. This is the easiest way to see which metal detector best meets which requirements.

Main settings

We have already found out that deep pits are built according to two different schemes. And for each scheme its own design parameters are important. For RF - the distance between the coils and their size. And for PI - frame size and power.

By selecting optimal design parameters, designers ensure that metal detectors achieve certain characteristics. About them below.

Target detection depth

This indicator depends on the frequency of the waves used. At a frequency of 2.5 kHz, you can detect a large metal object that is located at a depth of about 0.5 m. A frequency of about 7 kHz is considered average. It allows you to identify large metal objects at a meter depth or find small coins located close to the surface.

For searching for gold items, the optimal frequency range is 10-20 kHz. With professional-class equipment, you can adjust the frequency depending on the type of soil, the type of metal you are looking for, the dimensions of the products, etc.

Operating frequency

For PI, frequencies are in the region of only 100-500 hertz, so when working near power lines, it would be nice to have detuning from electromagnetic interference - currents in power lines have frequencies of the same order - 50 or 60 Hz.

For RF such problems are not relevant.

Number of settings

An important point is the ability to manually set discrimination, frequency and sensitivity indicators. This allows the device to be used for various needs. A large number of settings are typical for expensive devices.

Settings to ground

The soil composition in different areas differs in the degree of contamination, composition, level of mineralization and a number of other parameters. Fine tuning allows you to cut out interference and thereby increase search efficiency. As a rule, this function is available on the most expensive models.

Coil type

Some models are distinguished by a wide range of actions, others are “tailored” for searching for small objects. The specific choice is determined by the search goals. Some models can work with replaceable coils of different parameters. In addition to the technical characteristics given, you should also pay attention to the physical properties of the device. For example, this is the weight and convenience of the handle.

This is important because you often have to walk long distances with a metal detector.

Since you have to work outdoors, it is important that the metal detector is protected from precipitation.

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Search rate, interference resistance

This is the maximum speed of movement at which the sensitivity of the detector is maintained. Resistance to interference refers to the ability of a device to detect metal with certain parameters. The presence or absence of interference does not matter.

Discrimination

This word means the ability to search for products made of a specific metal. Budget models often lack this function. At best, they are able to distinguish between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

If the device is a professional one, it can be configured to search for specific metals, such as silver, bronze, copper or gold. This indicator is especially important when searching near bodies of water, for example, on beaches.

Easy to use

Beginners are not recommended to immediately buy professional devices, not only because of the high cost, but also because of the large number of complex user parameters. For this reason, devices whose interface is intuitive are suitable for beginners. Moreover, in the budget segment there are also quite high-quality models.

Resolution

This is the greatest distance between two objects at which the device recognizes them as 2 separate objects. The indicator is determined by the parameters of the electromagnetic radiation of the device.

What is the difference between depth probes with a frame and with a coil?

Using a depth detector with a coil is possible for regular searching, but VLF metal detectors are more effective when searching for coins. The depth worker begins to earn his price only with a frame. It’s not for nothing that most PI depth probes are sold as a set of frame and control unit. Rods and reels are additional accessories.

What is a depth frame

The frames are operated by devices built according to the PI scheme. The frame is a square coil of one circuit. The side of the frame can be very large, but in reality the maximum size is 2 meters. Above that, it is already difficult to ensure the rigidity of the structure, and the weight is already too great - you cannot do without a cart built without a single nail.

Which metal detector is best to buy to search for coins?

To choose the best Chinese metal detector for coins, you should pay attention to the detection depth of objects and the metal sorting function. It is desirable to have Pinpoint to more accurately determine the location of an object. The light weight of the metal detector makes it easy to use.

The devices that can be ordered from Aliexpress differ in their capabilities and comfort during operation:

• The HOOMYA MD-6350 can be purchased by the novice and experienced treasure hunter. The device is equipped with a coin depth indicator and has a waterproof coil.
• All Sun TS180 is a budget model and is more suitable for searching for large items. Finds coins at shallow depths.
• Thanks to its bright display, TIANXUN MD5030 is suitable for treasure hunting at any time of the day. It should be noted that the device is not able to track the size of an object found in the ground.
• KKMOON MD4030 is ideal for searching for coins if you set it to dynamic mode. It does not adjust for gold separately.
• HOOMYA TX-850 is configured to search for different types of metal. Good at searching for small objects, including coins.

The model of the Chinese metal detector BOOLATEK MD4030P/MD4030 is the best in terms of price and quality ratio. Users recommend the device to novice treasure hunters. It is not complicated in settings, and allows you to master the intricacies of a new hobby in a short time.

Criteria for choosing a metal detector from Aliexpress 2020–2021

Search depth

The most important criterion, it directly depends on the operating frequency of the device. 2.5 kHz metal detectors are designed to detect large metal objects only and do not detect coins, gold or other valuable metals. The 7.5 kHz frequency is designed to work at depths of up to a meter, which is great for beginners. Metal detectors 10-20 kHz are highly conductive; they are suitable for searching for any metals in a wide variety of soils.

Ability to distinguish between different metals

Often metal detectors are set to one or two types of metals. Before purchasing, you must decide what you will be looking for. Most ancient valuables were made of copper, and coins were made of silver. A metal detector for gold hunting must be sensitive and have a wide adjustment range.

Additional settings

If you want to prevent certain parts of the ground from interfering with your search, the ground balance function is necessary. Calibrating your metal detector can significantly improve its performance. Search programming is also a useful function; it will help configure the device to work in specific conditions.

How does a professional metal detector differ from an amateur one?

Amateur metal detectors differ from their “experienced” counterparts in a narrow range of settings and simple equipment. This is done so that a beginner in search matters can grasp the very principle of working with such a device, without overpaying for functions that they will not use.

Amateur devices have a small frequency range, a low level of filtering of extraneous noise, and they are not designed to operate in extreme conditions.

For example, in heavy rain, at low or high air temperatures, at great depths in fresh and salt water. And amateur metal detectors are not designed to search for precious metals, but they are good at distinguishing antiques.

Which professional metal detector to choose

This segment provides accurate and high-quality metal searches even at significant depths. Most often, professional equipment has a wide range of settings, and the cost is several times higher than that of standard models. It is worth noting that novice users will find it difficult to cope with such a technique. First of all, you need to answer a few questions:

Questions and answers How much should you expect? The difference in cost can be very large, you should immediately determine your budget and, within this framework, look for a suitable option. What type of search will be mainly used? You need to decide what to use the metal detector for, these could be small items made of precious metals or large objects (for example, wartime equipment). Select the option that is most suitable. What should the range of settings be? The wider it is, the more opportunities there are for fine-tuning the device and effective search in different conditions.

Also, when choosing professional equipment, you should pay attention to such nuances as ease of use and reliability of the design. When a significant amount of money is spent on a purchase, you need to select something that will provide maximum comfort during the search process and will not require frequent repairs.

TS166A

This option from China is ordered by those who search for scrap non-ferrous and ferrous metals.

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Advantages and disadvantages

• The presence of a built-in backlight allows you to work at any time of the day.
• High-quality discrimination mode that allows you to tune in to a specific type of metal.
• To increase the sensitivity of the device, the electromagnetic background of the earth is turned off.
• You can connect headphones to work in quiet mode.
• Does not tolerate high humidity well and is not suitable for working in the rain.
• Effective only when searching for large objects.
• The lithium battery is non-removable.

Main characteristics:

1. Working depth – up to 120 cm.
2. The minimum metal size is 30x30x1 cm.
3. Operating temperature range – from 0 to +50°С.
4. Air humidity 85% or lower.
5. Battery type: lithium built-in.
6. Total weight: 1.6 kg.

The model is effective when searching for large objects and is well suited for working in areas with heterogeneous soil.

TX-850

This option is great for finding small items made of precious metals, as well as other small items. Its main purpose is a professional search for treasures and exploration of places where hostilities took place.

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Pros and cons You can set discrimination so that when certain metals are detected, no signal is given. Voltage control oscillator allows you to adjust the signal strength. Waterproof coil. Background settings are set automatically depending on the soil. Does not tolerate high humidity and rain well. Without experience, it is difficult to understand the settings.

Model characteristics:

1. Working depth – 150 cm, at maximum settings – 250 cm.
2. Detects a Soviet 5 kopeck coin. at a depth of 40 cm.
3. The length of the rod is from 106 to 132 cm.
4. Frequency: 19.23 kHz.
5. Operating humidity from 0 to 90%.
6. Working hours – up to 15 hours.

Advice!

It is better to purchase 2-3 coils for different purposes.

TX-950

Ideal for finding coins and other small objects, even if they lie quite deep. It is used both in treasure hunting and in forensics.

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Advantages and disadvantages

• Detects metal measuring 30x30x1.5 cm at a depth of 1.5 m with standard settings.
• Work up to 15 hours on one battery (6F22 9V).
• Moisture and dust protection of the detector.
• Determines what metal the detected object is made of.
• The settings process is complex and requires preliminary preparation.
• Large sizes, which complicates transportation and use.

Characteristics:

1. Search depth – up to 250 cm.
2. Operating frequency 6.79 kHz.
3. Operating time – 15 hours (battery 6F22 9V).
4. Weight – 1.6 kg.
5. Air humidity – from 0 to 90%.

The model allows you to make fine adjustments to determine different metals.

Metal detector for gold and jewelry GH 20

One of the advantages we can immediately highlight is that the device detects precious metals and small jewelry well. And even a beginner can understand the menu. In addition, it is universal in use, comfortable to hold in your hand, even despite its heavy weight. The main advantage of this metal detector is that it can withstand low temperatures. Disadvantage: if you have no experience, it will be quite difficult to assemble the device after delivery. However, the kit includes instructions to make the preparation process easier. It is best to look for gold and silver.

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MD-6350

A very sensitive option, capable of finding small objects at significant depths.

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Advantages and disadvantages

• Qualitative discrimination of metals.
• 8 levels of sensitivity indicator settings.
• The device analyzes the condition of the product.
• Detects objects at a depth of up to 2.5 m.
• The coil is waterproof, but the device itself is afraid of water.
• Quite a high cost.

Characteristics:

1. Detection depth up to 250 cm.
2. Frequency 8.58 kHz.
3. Weight 2.2 kg.
4. Waterproof reel.

The instrument has a wide range of settings, so it is often used during archaeological excavations.

TOP 4 best underwater metal detectors

Nokta&Makro Simplex Plus

A reliable, high-quality metal detector with full protection from water, which is suitable for searching both in shallow and deep waters.

It has a huge number of settings, is very sensitive to various metals and produces powerful radiation, thanks to which the detection depth of objects reaches three meters.

The discriminator has 99 steps (most of which are not useful), there is a setting for soil mineralization.

Small objects are caught in the area of ​​50 centimeters. The coil has a diameter of 11 centimeters.

Conveniently, the rod here is extendable and can be increased to 132 cm.

The device runs on its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for almost eight hours of operation (charging will take half as much time). It is possible to purchase an additional battery separately.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 12.
4. Weight - 1.3 kg.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• strong radiation and high sensitivity;
• many settings;
• high-quality protection against water, can be used at depth;
• There is a pinpointer.

Minuses

• You can get confused in the settings;
• There is only one type of coil.

Makro Kruzer

This device can be used to search for relics in the ground or underwater.

Good radiation from the coil leads to a detection depth of up to one meter.

Light in weight (albeit heavier than conventional ground ones), it is convenient for transportation and operation; the package includes wireless headphones and a charger for the original battery, providing autonomy for up to 19 hours.

There is a built-in speaker with three levels of alert tone. There is vibration.

You can adjust the sensitivity or use automatic modes; there is automatic and manual ground balancing.

This is a multifunctional metal detector that will help you find coins, buttons, pellets and other interesting antiques, and also indicate precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to one meter.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 14.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• headphones included;
• own battery;
• suitable for professionals;
• wide range of settings.

Minuses

• unreliable connection between the coil and the rod;
• sometimes it works in vain.

Deteknix Quest Quest PRO

A professional metal detector that is used to search for rarities in dry and wet soil, and can also be taken with you for diving to a depth of up to five meters.

All thanks to the high level of moisture protection of the reel and the entire body. The detection depth of large objects reaches three meters. The device is famous for its performance and high sensitivity.

Autonomous operation is ensured by its own battery, a full charge of which is enough for 30 hours of operation..

Therefore, the device is indispensable on trips and hikes. Easy to disassemble, convenient to transport. It can connect to smartphones and has a Bluetooth module for exchanging information and making maps.

It is very popular among professional search engines and is used to detect precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is up to three meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 5, 14, 20.
4. Weight - 1.35 kg.

pros

• high level of autonomy;
• Can be used at a depth of up to 5 meters;
• connection to gadgets;
• sensitive, many settings;
• affordable price tag for such functionality.

Minuses

• not detected.

Garrett At Max

Universal metal detector for searching in the ground and diving under water to a depth of three meters.

It features a wide range of settings for filtering out extraneous noise, ground balancing (automatic and manual), and sensitivity.

The maximum depth for detecting objects reaches three meters . A convenient telescopic rod and a soft armrest ensure comfortable work and convenient transportation.

Autonomy is ensured by a power supply consisting of four AA batteries (rechargeable batteries are also suitable).

The charge lasts for 20 hours, which is a good indicator . The package includes branded wireless headphones, without volume control, but with three alert tone levels.

Well suited for searching for various small items made of non-ferrous or precious metals.

Main characteristics:

1. Detection method - VLF.
2. The maximum depth is 3 meters.
3. Operating frequency in kHz - 13.6.
4. Weight - 1.4 kg.

pros

• affordable price tag;
• wireless headphones included;
• good autonomy (economical consumption);
• convenient telescopic rod.

Minuses

• not detected.

Dear Chinese metal detectors

GRAIGAR GFX7000

The next device is a little more than completely similar to the Minelab GPX5000. It's called the GFX7000 and is sold under the GRAIGAR brand. The price is 70,000 rubles, which is three times cheaper than minelab.

It would seem that we should take it. But, taking into account the delusional technical description, as well as the obvious inconsistency with its picture (a round coil of 8 inches is shown by eye, but it is stated to be 11DD), the editors recommend that you think very seriously about the advisability of such a step. At the very least, it’s worth looking for a Russian seller of such devices so that you have someone to ask if something goes wrong.

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TM99S

The next participant in the hit parade is a device that is extremely reminiscent of the Minelab Gold Monster 1000. It is called TM99S, costs 55,000 rubles, and is claimed to be waterproof up to 3.5 meters.

Of the technical characteristics, only the operating frequency carries a payload - 6.99 kHz. Everything else could not be written.

For reference: the original minelab can be bought for 60,000 new.

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The best highly targeted metal detectors

In this category we included devices of various specializations, which in their format did not fit into any other group, but nevertheless deserve mention.

Aideepen DIY Kit Metal Detector

Assemble it yourself Rating (2020): 4.8
Kit for assembling a homemade metal detector with your own hands. To do this, you will have to study the circuit and work a little with a soldering iron; those who are especially advanced can also try to improve the design. As a result, you will get a funny device that reacts to metal at a distance of about 4-5 cm from the disk. Such pleasure costs pennies, but you need to understand that there is no serious sensitivity to metals to speak of and the whole essence of the DIY Kit Metal Detector lies precisely in the pleasure of the assembly process. But the device is ideal if you want to get your child interested in treasure hunting and electronics at the same time.

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Huppgou XQ116

Guarding security Rating (2020): 4.8
Detectors of this type are usually used by various types of law enforcement agencies (police, security, military, etc.) for quite obvious purposes - detecting unwanted objects on the human body (of course, they can also search for treasures , but the efficiency will be clearly low). In their reviews, buyers note that the sensitivity of the XQ116 is average, but the metal detector copes with the assigned tasks quite quickly, reacting even to coins, not to mention larger and more interesting objects like a knife or pistol. In addition, the device is good at “catching” mobile phones, which means it is also suitable for such specific control.

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LOMVUM MODEL 1

A good helper in everyday life Rating (2020): 4.9
Today, metal detectors are used not only to search for treasures and valuable items, but also for purely practical purposes, for example, during repairs. Such equipment helps to listen to walls and determine the location of wiring, and is also used for other household tasks. LOMVUM is similar in appearance to pinpointers (from the category above), but unlike them, it is much less versatile and is designed specifically for indoor work.

In addition to metal hidden in walls, floors and ceilings, this metal detector will help you detect cable, wood and alternating current (different scanning modes are responsible for this, each material has a maximum recognition depth). In general, the device copes well with its functions, however, as buyers note, it is important to “get used to” it and understand the intricacies. This is not so easy to do, given that there are no instructions included in the kit - you can only ask the seller to send a short guide.

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OOTDTY 1AA80

Ideal for searching underwater Rating (2020): 5.0
If you carefully read our rating, you should have noticed that some of the devices presented above have “water resistance” as one of their properties. This is an excellent quality, but there it was used more for marketing purposes - there is no objective sense in looking for something underwater with the same MD-6350, the device may, of course, not be damaged (which is not at all obvious), but it is of little use either will not be.

Another thing is the metal detector from OOTDTY, which was originally designed specifically as an underwater detector, with all the ensuing features. The manufacturer promises full operation at a depth of up to 30 meters under water, automatic adjustment, vibration technology for receiving signals, etc. In practice, none of the users have yet tried to test the work at such a depth, but on small dives the metal detector performs well, actually reacting to all metals, albeit at a very short distance. In general, if you ever want to collect coins thrown by tourists from the bottom, or maybe something more interesting, then this device will be quite a good helper.

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The best budget metal detectors from Alliexpress

MD-3028

pros

• high accuracy
• fast response
• recognizes 7 types of metal
• 3-tone sound alarm
• LCD display with backlight

Minuses

• cannot be used for searching in water

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review of metal detectors from Ali in 2021 presents the universal model MD-3028 with high search accuracy and fast response. The device is capable of operating in two modes: “all metals” and “discriminator” and detects objects of different sizes made of any type of metal, including copper, gold, silver. A backlit display, battery charge indication, and signal volume control are also advantages of this device.

MD-4080

pros

• light weight
• sliding rod
• budget cost
• search depth
• waterproof reel

Minuses

• no instructions in Russian

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The MD-4080 metal detector is well suited for beginner treasure hunters and scrap metal hunters. The device is incredibly easy to use, so it only takes a few hours to learn it. Using a detector that operates for a long time on a single battery, you can detect a large metal object at a depth of 25 cm, and a small coin - from 10 cm. This significantly saves time and effort on digging holes.

The best mid-level metal detectors: budget up to 30,000 rubles.

Metal detectors of this group can hardly be called devices for beginners. Yes, they are still not very difficult to learn, but they already have significantly expanded functionality, which, if it does not increase the detection area and depth, then certainly makes metal recognition more convenient and accurate. According to the possibilities, the price, of course, also increases. It does not differ so much from devices in the budget segment, but it is difficult to call it affordable.

In general, metal detectors in the mid-price segment can be addressed to people who are serious about taking up their hobby. For such users, searching for valuables is not yet work, but it is no longer just a pleasant pastime a couple of times a month. It is also worth noting that devices from this category can be safely purchased by people who, over time, are going to devote even more time and effort to searching, because the functionality is not very critically different from premium models, and therefore such metal detectors are purchased for many years. You can look at the best models in our rating.