Thinking about diversifying your scuba diving experience by adding an element of fun? Waterproof and underwater metal detectors are able to provide you with just that.
Using electromagnetism, waterproof and underwater metal detectors will quickly alert you to metal objects under the surface both on land or in the water. Regardless of whether you invest in a pulse or a very-low-frequency detector, you can expect it to give you a memorable experience (and possibly a new hobby).
Although most waterproof metal detectors have the same functionality, they differ in the following ways:
- The size of the search coil (which is closely linked to your chances of finding the sought-after treasure)
- The type (pulse induction (PI) detection vs. very low frequency (VLF) detection)
- The depth of water the device can safely be submerged under without stopping to work
- The availability of additional underwater audio support
To guide you in the right direction, we gathered a list of the best underwater metal detectors whose pros outweigh their cons. We suggest you carefully review the items listed below in order to find the best match for your needs.
Review of Quest Scuba Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
The Quest Scuba underwater metal detector is a real deal when it comes to discovering the long-forgotten treasures.
Featuring a Li-poly battery built into the machine, this tool will carry on working for hours at a time. It can be submerged up to 60 meters deep in the water, which gives you the opportunity to hunt for the riches buried deeply below the ground.
You can carry this detector from A to B with no trouble as it is a handheld device that doesn’t weigh you down. To control it, you are simply required to switch between 2 buttons – the rest is not your responsibility.
Some of the less-frequently found features include a LED flashlight mechanism and a lost alarm technology that enable you to search in the dark and quickly find your device if it gets lost. Bring it with you on your next scuba diving adventure and you will be able to reap the detector’s benefits straight away.
Review of Wedigout Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
If looking for a mid-budget relic-hunting tool, Wedigout underwater metal detector is the one to go with. Its Pulse Induction mechanism takes operating the device from the just-for-fun level to the closely-focused-on-finding-gold level.
The construction of the detector is envious – it features stainless steel hardware and the low battery sensor designed to last many years.
The built-in microprocessor provides you with stable depth detection, which means that you won’t run out of battery before you locate the artifact that was buried deep under the water.
The automatic turning promotes even easier hunting that doesn’t involve any additional adjustments. When the target is detected, Wedigout will vibrate and flash with a bright light more the closer you get to the target. Then, once you decide it’s time to dig, you’ll be able to quickly turn it off and pursue your treasure with the utmost attention.
Review of FYSMY Fully Waterproof Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
FYSMY waterproof underwater metal detector is the device you go for when having portability at the top of your priority list. Thanks to the long neck and the wand shape body of the tool, your chances of finding well-hidden gems are as high as they can be.
The latest upgrade made the detector fully waterproof – consider the IP68 indicator – and submersible under the water for up to 35 feet.
The alert system integrated into the device is versatile – there’s an audio, silent vibration, and audio vibration modes to choose from. While the audio alert works best with on-land hunting, the other two modes of operation are perfectly compatible with underwater search quests.
All you need to get this tool going is to press the built-in button once to turn the detector on and press it for two seconds to turn the device off. This allows you to quickly locate your target and spend minimum time excavating it from beneath the surface.
Review of Kuman Automatic Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
If you have Napoleon’s plans of finding the long-lost treasures beneath the bottom of the ocean, there is nothing that would be of greater help to you than the Kuman Automatic underwater metal detector. This painfully affordable tool is designed to detect every type of metal imaginable and do so via a 360-degree side scan and a pinpoint tip direction.
Featuring high-sensitivity elements, it can quickly spot the target in the dirtiest soils and notify you about the findings in a matter of seconds.
With a simple click of a button, you can tune out the environment and narrow down the detection field to the minimum. The LED indicator light, audio, and vibrating alerts all integrated into the device to help you with the hunting.
The above-the-lights part of the detector shouldn’t be submerged into water for the long-lastingness of the tool, but that is not supposed to prevent you from using the device in wet conditions. Instead, use a waterproof case and bring this lightweight gadget with you wherever you go.
Review of Pudibe Pinpoint Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Don’t confuse PudiBe Pinpoint underwater metal detector with a portable vacuum cleaner – while they have some physical similarities, they’re nothing alike performance-wise. The detector is designed to find and dig out gems that would otherwise go unnoticed.
The IP69 rating means you can use it for 200-feet under-the-water-deep treasure-hunting.
The Pulse Induction mechanism embedded into this device makes it compatible with saltwater and all types of soil – a bonus that comes in handy more often than you’d think.
The grip of the tool has an ergonomic shape that allows you to operate it without gloves.
The collapsible search coil adds a nice finishing touch to the array of features PudiBe detector has. Regardless of the sensitivity level, you decide to hunt with, the odds will always be in your favor.
Review of Dr Otek IP68 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Engineers behind the DR. ÖTEK underwater metal detector listened to the customers and came up with the upgraded device that made the waiting game worth it. The one-button construction is now the signature element of this detector that has made hunting that much more enjoyable.
The toy-like device doesn’t have the toy-like features – instead, it proves to be effective for locating hefty relics. The 360-degree pinpointer has the power to accurately locate the target and help you dig out the actual treasure, not junk.
It’s fully submersible for up to 32 feet deep under the water, which makes it a handy device to throw in your bag when heading to the nearby lake, river, or ocean for a weekend getaway.
The 2-year warranty combined with the 5-minute automatic shutdown and 4-level LED lights puts it well ahead of the competitors. And this is for the fraction of the price of the high-end underwater metal detectors. Checkmate.
Review of Minelab CTX 3030 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Minelab CTX 3030 is the king of all waterproof metal detectors that are of high performance and of impressive quality. Its target identification has one of the highest accuracies on the market, while its full-color LCD display possesses the readability that was never seen before.
Regardless of the ground conditions in which you will be using your detector, it has the capacity to provide you with the best treasures that won’t be mistaken for junk.
You can freely take advantage of the built-in speaker, headphones, and the wireless audio all while precisely navigating the surface with the integrated into the detector GPS. Once you find the most fruitful locations, transfer data onto Google Maps through Exchange 2 PC app, and you are equipped with the proven places to hunt.
You don’t have to be a professional treasure hunter to benefit from this device – features like ‘switch on and go’, 5 present search modes, and automatic operating system make it easy to hunt as a novice too.
Review of NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
In case you always dreamed of becoming a treasure hunter but never had the funds to make it a reality, take a close look at the underwater metal detector released by National Geographic. This easy-to-use tool comes in 2 styles – junior and professional – and is an optimal variant for every scuba diver out there.
It has got a 10-inch search coil that is fully waterproof and thus submergible under the water.
The 3 detection modes built into the device allow you to easily filter out garbage and find the exact metals you are looking for. To foster successful hunting, the manufacturer further incorporated 4 sensitivity modes that enable you to detect underground treasures buried as deep as 12 inches beneath the surface.
The data appearing on the LCD display is quite easy to decipher, which gives you the opportunity to make the most out of your searching experience.
Review of Minelab Equinox 600 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Minelab Equinox 600 Multi-IQ underwater metal detectors are the fully submersible gadget that provides you with the maximum output through minimum efforts. This multi-frequency device is able to go 10-feet under the water and find you the valuable antique pieces no one has ever seen before.
Whether it is a river, a lake, or a stream, rest assured this detector will do its job with the greatest precision.
The 6 detection modes allow you to effectively search for the desired metal and rightfully expect to find it by switching between the regimes. It is compatible with the wireless audio, which enables you to use your Bluetooth headphones in order to cancel out the outside noise.
In the view of the lightweight and rugged construction of the device, you can spend hours metal hunting regardless of the surrounding environment.
Review of Garrett AT Pro Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
This versatile device by Garrett is best used for freshwater hunting that can be accompanied by some healthy competitions among your friends. It is considered to be appropriate for a multitude of terrains that hide relics, coins, jewelry, and other precious assets that you wouldn’t otherwise stumble upon.
The ergonomic design of the underwater metal detector allows you to hunt with the utmost accuracy and precision due to the lengthy search coil. You can do so by utilizing the belt mount that fits your arm perfectly well. It also enables you to carry on with your underwater expedition for hours at a time without getting too exhausted.
Unlike its counterparts with waterproof search coils, this model is completely waterproof and can be submerged up to 10 feet deep.
Review of RM RICOMAX Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
As they say in the metal hunting universe, the longer the search coil is, the higher is the chance of you finding precious metals. RM RICOMAX underwater metal detector is the proof – its 10-inch search coil is the gold feature of the device. It greatly helps detect deeply buried treasure with minimum efforts.
The three detection modes – all-metal, pinpoint and discrimination/tone – foster an even more efficient hunting process. You can accurately locate the target, filter out garbage, and search for the specific type of metal all with one tool. The built-in LCD display then promptly notifies you about the finds and you are good to excavate the riches.
If the hunting area is particularly noisy, you can use the headphone jack integrated into the detector and connect your headphones for the increased level of accuracy.
Review of URCERI Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
If an easy-to-use interface is of a big priority to you, get a hold of the URCERI underwater metal detector and you will be glad you did. It is designed to serve beginners and professionals alike, partly due to its large search coil of 8.7 inches and a great level of accuracy in a wide variety of soils.
The 2 detecting modes – all-metal and disc – help in either identifying all kinds of buried metals or disregarding garbage and focusing on the desired type of metal. The large LED display is able to demonstrate the level of sensitivity, depth, and battery in order for you to get the best out of your hunting experience.
You will also find a 0.125” audio jack that allows you to connect your favorite pair of headphones and not be disturbed by the outside noise when treasure hunting. Place your underwater metal detector in the carrying bag it comes with and bring it with you to your next diving trip.
Review of Fisher F22 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Whether it be rain or a thunderstorm, your metal hunting journey won’t be ruined with the Fisher F22 underwater metal detector in use. This easy-to-operate tool runs on 2 AA batteries that ensure its longevity when charging is not an option.
You will come to appreciate its adjustable Fe-Tone iron audio that is particularly helpful in setting the volume of your metal targets lower than the volume of non-desirables. This increases the level of clarity and doesn’t contribute to the frustration often associated with treasure hunting.
What fosters a prompt find is the integrated 9-segment target categories and 4 operation modes including artifact, jewelry, coin, and custom items. With a 5-year warranty, it’s hard to go wrong with this model of an underwater metal detector.
Review of Treasure Cove TC-3020 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
Treasure Cove, the 15-year old brand with a good reputation, has come out with an underwater metal detector of its own and we couldn’t help but get our hands on it. This tool is filled with features of all kinds including the auto-ground control mechanism that tunes out false signals and a true discrimination mode that allows you to find silver, gold, or iron depending on your preference.
Surely, there are two more modes to experiment with like the self-explanatory all-metal and target modes. They are quick and easy to employ and are known for their high level of accuracy.
The intuitive LCD control display is also there – it is programmed to notify you about the battery and sensitivity basics that are a part of the treasure hunting. You also get an armrest that comes in handy more often than you would think – after all, long days out in the fresh air inevitably make you tired.
Review of Bounty Hunter Discovery 3300 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
The trusty Bounty Hunter is yet to appear in our guide again – its Discovery 3300 model caught our attention for a reason and we are about to hook you up on it too.
From the manual ground balance to 4 tones of audio and 5 modes of operation, this tool is rich with features that make it stand out from the crowd. The deep-seeking one-touch pinpoint mode is a unique characteristic of this device that is able to help you locate the exact position of the item buried in the ground.
The 8-inch search coil is fully waterproof, which means that you can freely dive with it and find treasures hidden from the eyes of the majority. For your convenience, the stem is made to be adjustable, while the digital 11-segment target ID is integrated for the purpose of easier metal identification.
On top of everything, you are provided with a 5-year limited warranty that prolongs the life of your tool, which is always good to know.
Review of Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
With an 8-inch waterproof search coil, Bounty Hunter TK4 underwater metal detector is a great tool for excavating metals including aluminum, gold, silver, iron, and steel.
It operates on two 9V alkaline batteries that enable the gadget to continue detecting treasures for prolonged periods of time. The detector’s knob control interface is simple to read, especially when taken into account the device’s 3 operation modes.
You can make use of the notch control to distinguish between the unwanted metals and valuable deposits, which will be easy to do thanks to the rugged construction of the metal detector.
Get rid of the undesirable objects with the built-in discrimination mode, maximize the detection depth with the integrated sensitivity control, and promptly switch between the modes with the toggle flick. No matter what your end goal is, you can successfully achieve it with this device.
Review of Wedigout MD-4030 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
The Wedigout MD-4030is the entry-level underwater metal detector that does its job well for less than $60. It has got an ergonomic design that involves adjustable armrest and an anti-slip handle that equips your hunting experience with comfort.
If you genuinely enjoy the thrill of finding the rarest artifacts or coins, this highly sensitive machine is well worth your money.
The sensor built into the detector is able to locate items buried as deep as 5 inches into the ground. This is particularly useful when searching for valuables with small dimensions or the ones hidden far below the surface.
Unlike other metal detector models, this device comes with a high-carbon steel shovel that helps in digging out the newly found treasure. Combined with the headphones, you are bound to find the gems with just a little effort.
Review of Teknetics Delta 4000 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
The Delta 4000 underwater metal detector created by Teknetics can become your ride-or-die when scuba diving somewhere in Indonesia. Having implemented a 3-tone adjustable audio ID, an impeccable sensitivity, and an overload alarm system, the manufacturer took it upon himself to provide you with the high-tech metal detecting device that would exceed your expectations.
No matter if you are searching for precious gold, relic items, or antique coins, the 0-8-inch depth indicator will help you locate the target in a span of minutes.
The 9-volt battery allows you to run the device for up to 25 hours, which is great for when you are far from places where you could charge it. The LCD display is quite easy to read thanks to the 2-digit numerical target ID system that keeps track of the metals located close to you.
Basically, you are covered with the multitude of features the machine is equipped with that work together to provide you with the best results.
Review of Garrett Ace 150 Underwater Metal Detector Underwater Metal Detector review
The leading-edge technology was used when designing the Garrett Ace 150 underwater metal detector. Yes, you heard it right – the manufacturer created the new Ace series from the finest materials to ensure the long-lastingness of your machine.
Its rugged design prevents the tool from breaking apart under pressure and protects it from the outside danger.
You are provided with the coin depth indicator, customized discrimination mode, and pinpointing that bring your treasure hunting experience to the next level. No need to have years of experience – if you are an avid diver or an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys challenging himself with a new quest, you will find this device to fully satisfy your needs.
The 6.5 x 9-inch search coil is sensitive enough to detect the smallest items, while the headphone jack is able to help you reduce the outside noise.
BUYING GUIDE
Prior to purchasing an underwater metal detector, it is advised to take notes of a few characteristics that will help you differentiate one model from another. For you to avoid getting ripped off by a seller, consider paying attention to features like search coil size, detection type, water depth, and water + audio support.
HOW DO METAL DETECTORS WORK?
Metal detectors transmit an electromagnetic field through its search coil, sending energy to the area under the ground. Metal objects absorb this electromagnetism and begin transmitting a field of their own, which are received by the search coil. Different types of metal will transmit different types of signals, giving the user an idea of the kind of discovery over which they’re standing.
Check out underwater metal detecting in action here. The product used is one by Marinelab:
COIL SIZE
The rule of thumb states that the larger the search coil is, the higher the chance of you finding that underwater treasure. This is due to the higher level of sensitivity assigned to search coils with bigger dimensions that results in you spending less time exploring the sandy bottom of the ocean.
TYPE
Generally speaking, there are 2 types of underwater metal detectors – one uses pulse induction (PI) detection, while the other works with a very low frequency (VLF) detection type. The former tends to be more expensive than the latter, mainly due to their lack of sensitivity to minerals and is thus better for use in saltwater.
The VLF metal detectors, on the other hand, operate exceptionally in freshwater and have a great focus that helps you promptly find precious metals.
WATER DEPTH
The submersible stem underwater metal detectors are the easiest to use. For this reason, it’s best to choose the model that can go deep into the water without compromising any of its main functions. Metal detectors that can go deep will give you a higher chance of finding the valuables you are looking for.
WATER & AUDIO SUPPORT
If you are planning on using your underwater metal detector in salt water, it is crucial to get the model that supports this type of water. If it doesn’t, you are risking receiving false information and likely damaging your machine. Those with additional underwater audio support are an even better option as they seem to provide you with the most accurate findings.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Underwater Metal Detector
On-land metal detectors don’t cut it anymore – now they have to be submersible under the water. Besides, they better be exceptionally great at it, or unsatisfied customers will result in high returns.
The pressure is high – but so is the number of detectors offered by every retailer under the sun. Our extensive guide gives you a good run-down on the most practical underwater metal detectors available on the market. Here is a list of some of our favorites:
It’s not prohibited to use an underwater metal detector on land when searching over sand or dirt. Since they work well under the water, there’s no way they wouldn’t be able to operate on dry land.
That said, waterproof underwater metal detectors are known for weighing much more than their on-land counterparts. The manufacturers, therefore, have to use heavier elements to equip them with water-friendly features, which makes them considerably heavier.
Those who are skilled in metal detecting and diving will benefit the most from using an underwater metal detector while scuba diving. You will be able to easily submerse 200-feet deep into the water and discover the well-hidden beneath the surface riches.
The experience won’t be dangerous and neither will it be tricky as you are aware of how these machines work and have no trouble scuba diving.
If, however, you are new to either scuba diving or metal detecting, it might be a better idea to bring your skills to an appropriate level where you don’t need any supervision and are able to operate independently.
The weight of the underwater metal detector is important only to a certain degree – if you aim to use your machine on land, it will matter much more than if you are aiming at strictly using it under the water.
It can get difficult to operate an underwater metal detector on the ground as it will weigh you down, so this is a factor to take into consideration when deciding what tool to invest in.
The handheld models are an example of detectors that don’t need headphones to alert you about the new underground find – rather, they use vibrating frequencies or a display for this purpose.
Alternatively, the underwater metal detector models can either come with headphones (so that you don’t have to purchase them separately) or have a waterproof coil that helps you decipher the readings you receive from them. Both of these models can fully run by themselves without needing any other tools.
Take a moment to look at this.
No, not that I know of at least. There might be, but not on the scale we’re looking at.
Hello,
Just to have any idea about the right instruments.
Looking for any complete metal detector gold-oriented, to use from boat on the sea, till 100m deep.
The idea is the coil (or other device) stay at 0,5/1m far from the bottom sea, moving very slow with boat.
There is any technology that allow a distance scan?
Thanks to give me informations to understand better the problem.
Best,
What is the best frequency for an underwater detector? I notice some at 20, some at 7 some at 6. Is there one that has both Pulse and VLF? and doesn’t cost in the thousands?