The 10 Best Metal Detectors Under $100 In (2024)

The Best Metal Detectors Under 100 dollars

If you are looking for a pocket-friendly metal detector, then there are metal detectors under $100.

Numerous brands priced around $100 populate the market. Much like their counterparts, these metal detectors are invaluable tools for uncovering treasures, including precious metals like gold. Equipped with advanced features, these detectors excel in metal detection, making them well-suited for various applications.

  They detect items like coins, wedding rings, and different metals. They are equipped with sensitivity settings, notch/disc settings, and metal mode.  

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Top 10 Metal Detectors Under $100 – Reviews and Comparisons:

Picture	Name	Description		Price
	Goplus MD-4030	Brand: Goplus Dimension: 23 x 22 x 9 Inches Weight: 32.7 Pounds Color: Black Material Type: Steel Frame + PP Handle + PP with EVA cover Wheels		Check  Price
	Goplus Underground Metal Detector	Brand: Goplus Dimension: 29.5 x 10 x 6.5 Inches Weight: 5lbs Material Type: ABS + aluminum Color: Black		Check  Price
	All-sun Junior Metal Detector	Brand: ALLOSUN Dimension: 16.5 x 6.5 x 3.1 Inches Weight: 1.48Pounds Item model number: TS20 Color: Black		Check  Price
	Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver Metal Detector	Brand: Bounty Hunter Dimension: 28.5 x 10.2 x 6.2 Inches Weight: 2 Pounds Item model number: QSI-PL Color: Black		Check  Price
	TACKLIFE Metal Detector	Brand: TACKLIFE Dimension: 21.7 x 8.9 x 6.8 Inches Weight: 2.1 Pounds Size: MMD03 Color: Orange		Check  Price
	Intey Metal Detector	Brand: INTEY Dimension: 5.5 x 8.5 x 22.5 Inches Weight: 3.85 Pounds Item model number: GC-1065 Color: Ground detector		Check  Price
	Viewee kids outdoor adventure	Brand: Viewee Dimension: 7.4 x 5.1 x 28.1 Inches Weight: 3 Pounds Search Coil: Adjustable Color: RED Detector 1		Check  Price
	RICOMAX High Accuracy Metal FinderBrand: Bounty Hunter	Brand: RM RICOMAX Dimension: 48 x 10 x 10 Inches Weight: 2.31 Pounds Item model number: GC-1028 Color: Black		Check  Price
	Pinpointer metal detector	Brand: RM RICOMAX Dimension: 11 x 1.8 x 1.8 Inches Weight: 5.9 Ounces Item model number: GC-2007 Color: Black		Check  Price
	American Hawk Metal Detector	Brand: American Hawks Dimension: 25 x 3 x 7 Inches Weight: 1.85 Pounds Item model number: AHHJAM02 Sensitivity: > 8 inch (for a US quarter)		Check  Price

How deep can a metal detector detect?

A metal detector penetrates the earth’s magnetic field to detect metals. Different metal detectors have different depths in which they can detect. This is dependent on so many factors, which may be classified as internal and external factors.

1. Internal factors

There are factors related to the detector itself. The size of the coil is one of the internal factors that significantly affect the depth of detection. Detection depth is directly proportional to the size of the coil. A larger coil will, therefore, detect deeper.

Note: a coil that is too large compromises accuracy and sensitivity.

The type of technology used in detecting metal determines how deep you can catch. Some

detectors have beat frequency, while others have pulse induction. Pulse induction detects deeper. The effect of mineral salts is also minimized.

The frequency of the detector – different detectors come with varying frequencies. The lower the frequency, the deeper it detects and vice versa.

Note: low-frequency compromises sensitivity

2. External factors

These are factors not related to the detector itself. Ground terrain is one feature that you cannot ignore if you want to detect deep. The slope affects how much the metal target is buried, which affects the distance between the detector and the target.

The depth of the metal that is being detected also affects how deep the metal detector can detect. In addition to depth, the size of the treasure is also important. Bigger objects are detected deeper.

Different metals have different conductivities. More conductive metals are detected deeper. Where the ground is deeper, the chances of objects being buried deeper are higher.  Soil compatibility is of the essence. The amount of minerals present is of effect.

Though the manufacturers give certain depth guides for each detector, it is clear that they are not guaranteed due to the external factors that detection depth depends on.

How to repair a metal detector?

When using any machine, learning how to fix it is very important. Repairing a metal detector is an essential skill that will help you avoid additional expenses of repair. It also ensures a frustration-free search.

1st Step

Non-functioning search heads – in most cases, search heads fail to function when mud and dirt are sticking on them. WD40 is a very effective solution in which, when applied, it becomes easier to remove the dirt.

Failing to switch on and off – ensure that the batteries are put in the right way. It is also good to try other batteries to ensure that the problem is not in the battery. Where the search head is removable, ensure that it is plugged in properly.

Note: remove the batteries when the detector is not in use to avoid battery-related problems.

2nd Step

No sound – first, check to see that the volume is turned on and the adapter of the headphones is not left in the detector after unplugging. If it does not work, wipe the jack and the headphone plug with a swab dipped in distilled alcohol.

3rd Step

False signals and Noisy detector – this is most of the time caused by electrical interference. First, try searching for the metals around 200 m from where you are. If it is still noisy and is not blocking false signals, reduce the sensitivity using the knob. (where applicable)

4th Step

Wet metal detector – most metal detectors are partially waterproof. However, it may accidentally be immersed in water. The first step is to remove the batteries immediately.

This is because water is a good conductor of electricity and will short circuit the components. If the detector is immersed in freshwater, keep it warm for a few days, and it will begin functioning.

Note:  if it is accidentally immersed in salty water, contact the customer service of the detector if you are unable to open the control box to dry it manually. This is because saltwater is corrosive.

5th Step

Non-functioning LCD – this may be due to static charges on the surface. Using a damp cloth, wipe the screen twice.

Most of the problems that arise when using metal detectors do not need any technical repair. They result from simple mistakes, mix-ups, misunderstandings, or inaccuracies by the user.

Best Metal Detectors Under $100:

1. Goplus MD-4030

Goplus MD-4030 is an ideal search engine that has very high performance and accuracy. The metal detector has a standard search coil which improves its sensitivity. The search coil is also waterproof, which means that you will not be limited by rain.

The search diameter is 6.5 inches. The high-speed detector has two search modes; ALL METAL and DISK. DISK mode allows you to discriminate some metals and search for a specific one.

All-metal mode allows you to search for all metals with very high accuracy. Here, the auto ground balance is used. This prevents all the false signals which may result from salty underground water and minerals.

The detector has audio feedback, which ensures that you will undoubtedly not miss a signal. It has an earphone jack, and the volume is adjustable.

This paramount feature not only allows you to search for metals in a noisy place but also allows you to listen privately. Additionally, it increases the battery life. The adjustable stem of Goplus MD-4030 makes it suitable for persons of all heights.

Features of Goplus MD-4030:

2. Goplus Underground Metal Detector

As the word suggests, Goplus Underground Metal Detector is a metal detector with a great ability to search for deeply hidden metals with high accuracy. In an actual sense, it accurately detects metals that are up to 8-inch depth.

The waterproof search coil also allows you to search for a treasure in shallow waters. Goplus Underground Metal Detector has some paramount features that ensure that you will not miss a signal whatsoever. This includes the audio response.

The volume of the speakers is adjustable, ensuring audibility even in noisy places. It also has an earphone jack that allows you to search for treasure privately and save battery life. This is backed up by a Light Emitting Diode (LCD), which will also signal you when a treasure is detected.

The lightweight metal detector has 2search modes, which allow you to discriminate some metals while searching for a specific one. It is affordable, costing lea than 100 dollars. This, however, does not compromise its quality and durability.

Features of Goplus Underground Metal Detector:

3. All-sun Junior Metal Detector

Most people associate the price with quality, and hence the common phrase ’cheap is expensive’ nevertheless, in All-sun Junior Metal Detector, this statement is certainly not true. The high-performance detector costs 100 dollars which has not in any way sacrificed its outstanding parameters.

It is susceptible, and the sensitivity is also adjustable. It has an audio response that ensures that you do not miss a metal whatsoever. This is backed up by an earphone jack, which increases the battery life and allows you to search for a treasure privately.

The detector is lightweight and compact, which increases its portability. It is very suitable but not limited to beginners.

Note: the angle of the treasure, the depth, and the amount of iron determine its ability to detect.

Features of All-sun Junior Metal Detector:

4. Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver Metal Detector

Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver Metal Detector is a metal detector designed with the skill to ensure that your metal hunting is interesting and easy. It is ergonomic, with an adjustable stem which ensures that you will not attain your back regardless of the height.

The ergonomic detector has an 8-inch interchangeable waterproof search coil which allows you to search for treasure in shallow waters. The standard size improves its sensitivity.

Additionally, it has a one-touch sensitivity control which allows you to discriminate some metals while detecting some. The two search modes complement this. It also has a fully automatic ground balance which prevents all the false signals.

It has an LCD that displays rich information about the treasure. The audio feedback also ensures that you will not miss a signal. To crown it all, the detector costs less than 100 $. Quality is assured with the five-year warranty.

Features of Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver Metal Detector:

5. TACKLIFE Metal Detector

TACKLIFE Metal Detector is a quality metal detector that costs less than 100 $.  This, however, has not compromised its quality or durability. It has a 6.7-inch waterproof search coil that improves its sensitivity.

The search coil also allows you to search for treasure in shallow waters. It has an ergonomic stem that can be used by any family member irrespective of their height since it is adjustable.

The detector has a discrimination mode, which allows you to ignore some metals while detecting specific ones. This saves time. It also ensures that every signal you get means the particular metal that you are searching for.

The detector is a complete detecting tool. The LCDs rich information like DISK mode, depth indicator, low battery indicator, and even has an overload warning.

TACKLIFE Metal Detector is affordable. It costs less than 100 dollars which does not sacrifice its quality. It is lightweight, weighing around 1.2 lbs, and compacts which add to its portability.

Features of TACKLIFE Metal Detector:

6. Intey Metal Detector 

Intey Metal detector has unique features that are carefully installed, offering exclusive technology that enhances its ability to work in all types of terrains. It is a high-performance tool that is user-friendly and very accurate in locating metals.

It has a high sensitivity that can be easily be adjusted, allowing you to find specific metals. With an Intey metal detector, one can comfortably search in shallow waters as it has an 8-inch waterproof search coil.

Also, it has a clear sound that can easily be heard even in a noisy background, and thus, it is very efficient on beaches. Despite all its amazing features, the Intey metal detector has a fantastic price of fewer than 100 dollars.

Features

7. Viewee Kids Outdoor Adventure Metal Detector

When you think of getting a metal detector for your kid, consider one that is equipped with all they need to grow. Viewee kids’ outdoor adventure is equipped with unique features vital for your child’s growth and development.

Not only is it a source of happiness, but it also shapes character such as patience and inspires kids’ imagination. It allows you to spend time with your child as you can play together.

Viewee kids’ outdoor adventure is installed with features that make it very easy to use for both you and your child. For instance, it has a stem that can be adjusted to attain the most comfortable length by the user’s height.

It is also lightweight, therefore, ensuring portability during a treasure hunt. Most importantly, you do not have to worry about the price. You get all these features in one package at a low and affordable price of fewer than one hundred dollars.

8. RICOMAX High Accuracy Metal Finder

RICOMAX high accuracy metal finder is a high-performance metal finder designed with accuracy to ensure that metal hunting is interesting and comfortable. It has an ergonomic stem that is adjustable, ensuring that you do not strain you’re back irrespective of your height.

The versatile metal finder is very accurate, as the name suggests. It has a standard waterproof search coil that adds to its sensitivity. Also, it allows for underwater detection. It has two search modes that allow s for the discrimination of some metals.

This means that you can search for a precise metal while ignoring the rest. The metal detector has an audio response with distinct tones for different metals.

This ensures that you will, without a doubt, not miss a metal. The headphone jack supplements this. It not only improves audibility but also saves battery life.

RICOMAX high accuracy metal finder offers more stable detection. It is a metal finder in which clarity, portability, accuracy, and affordability have been achieved. It costs less than 100 $, making it the best in the market regarding parameters and price.

Features of RICOMAX High Accuracy Metal Finder:

9. Pinpointer Metal Detector

As the word suggests, the metal detector is exact.  This is as a result of its one-button operation pinpoint function.  It is also susceptible and allows for underwater detection since it is partially waterproof.

It is also easy to use and has a one-button operation, for instance, on and off. The pinpointed metal detector is designed with the skill to ensure that you will not miss a signal. The three indication design has an audio response, a vibrating buzzer, and a Light Emitting Diode (LED) that lights once a treasure is detected.

The detector detects treasure on all sides up to about 3.5 inches’ radius.  It is also highly portable with a small size lightweight design, which is handheld. This makes it very appropriate but not limited to children.

The hand-held detector is budget-friendly. It costs less than 100 $. However, it does not come at the expense of its quality. It has a lifetime warranty.

Features of Pinpointer Metal Detector:

10. American Hawk Metal Detector

American hawk metal detector is a high accuracy tool equipped with premium features to improve its efficiency in metal detection and user’s comfortability. It has a rugged design stem that makes it very comfortable to handle.

It is also equipped with a large LCD screen that shows the type and depth in which the metal is detected. Its tones are different for each metal that is detected.

Unlike most metal detectors, American hawk explorer comes in a complete kit.

This means that you are provided with the detectors and their original accessories such as two batteries, padded headphones, plus a carry bag for portability.

So, if you are looking for a metal detector that optimizes the value of your money without compromising quality…American hawk explorer is the absolute solution.

Features Of American Hawk

How to choose a metal detector under 100 dollars?

They say cheap is expensive in markets, but this is not the case in metal detectors. Contrary to the phrase, you can still get a very efficient metal detector with quality and necessary features.

With the advancement of technology in the manufacturing sector, so many models of metal detectors have emerged in the market. Most of them have been equipped with features aiming to improve competency but, on the other hand, compromising affordability.

When selecting a metal detector, there is some crucial feature that one should put into consideration.

Search for the best

With one hundred dollars or less, one can get a metal detector not damaged by water. The waterproof feature allows you to use your detector in wet places like beaches, streams, and other shallow areas.

It also allows you to search for treasure when it is raining. The 8-inch coils ensure that high accuracy and hardly miss any details. On the other hand, a detector that is not partially waterproof is very limiting in harsh weather conditions.

In some cases, there are those metals you want to find and those you don’t. This is where the two-mode feature comes hand in hand.

This setting enables you to eliminate targets that you do not want to find. For instance, you can eliminate zinc and iron. There is also the all-metal mode whereby all metals are detected.

This saves time and ensures that you do not dig with excitement only to find a metal that you are not interested in.

Ground control is a feature that minimizes interference from external signals. This ensures that the metal detector does not raise false alarms due to detecting other metallic minerals in the soil.

It is, therefore, an essential feature as it saves you from getting excited when you have not found what you are looking for. The tone in metal detectors alerts you when the signal is detected.

It should have a high volume to ensure effectiveness even in noisy environments. Some metal detectors are installed with LCD screens which are not necessary, especially for kids, as they may be difficult and unnecessary to read.

With the two-tone mode, the detector produces the high and low signal for precious and non-precious metals, respectively. Too small a search coil reduces the ability of the metal detector to find the target.

On the other hand, when the search coil is too large, accuracy is compromised. It is therefore vital for you to ensure you find a metal detector with a standard search coil. The ground balance also complements the ability of the sensor to see its target as it blocks unnecessary signals.

The adjustable stem is a feature that ensures that either kids or adults can use the metal detector. It allows you to adjust the length by the height of the user. One is therefore comfortable as you do not have to bend too much or strain with the size of the handle.

Final Verdict

As we have seen above, metal detectors can be found at different prices. Users can easily find the best metal detector under $100. This detector is incredible and offers almost all the functions that you could find in other metals.

With all features, your metal detector will work just as well as that expensive metal detector. It can detect a gold ring, copper, and silver. It is, therefore, possible to find an efficient but also affordable metal detector.

Moreover, there are some cases where buying expensive metal detectors would be unnecessary. With a cheap metal detector, you will not lose a lot of money.

Secondly, beginners prefer this metal detector as they do not have complicated features that will course difficulty using it.

Also, when you need to use the detector once, this metal detector is economical. You, therefore, do not need to spend more than a hundred dollars on metal detectors.