Top 10 Best Underwater Metal Detectors of 2023 – Reviewed

The life underwater is super cool and amazing. There is another world underwater that many of us have not explored yet. Along with the mountains and different kinds of water species, there is also plenty of treasure hidden under the water. But in the past, it was not easy to reach or find that treasure as hunting deep in the water with metal detectors for hours was not possible.

But now in this era of technology, it is very much possible with the help of underwater metal detectors. These types of detectors help you to find any lost metallic object in water or a hidden treasure under the sea or ocean. Also, these underwater metal detecting machines work on the land.

However, the selection of these metal detectors is not as easy as they differ from each other in terms of depth, accuracy, and detection type. So, if you want to purchase a good quality underwater metal detector, then are you are in the right place. Here we are going to review the ten best underwater/waterproof metal detectors to help you out in finding the best one according to your needs.

On the other hand, if you want to go for other metal detectors, then here we have also a buyer’s guide through which you can learn what things you should look in an underwater metal detector before the purchase.

Buyer’s Guide

Before going to purchase the best underwater metal detector, it is necessary to go through every aspect and feature of the product. Without ensuring that you are purchasing the right product according to your needs, it is useless to buy it. So, here in this buying guide section, we are highlighting some factors that you should consider before spending money on a particular underwater metal detector.

Type of Detection

The first thing that you must look at is the type of detection your underwater metal detector features. These metal detectors feature two types of deduction. One is the VLF detection that is very low-frequency detection. And the other one is the Pulse Induction detection.

VLF detectors are highly sensitive to minerals. They are designed to use in freshwater where the minerals are in low quantity. They mainly focus on those metallic and precious objects which you want to find under the ground and ignore the other things.

But if we talk about the Pulse Induction detection system, then it is not sensitive to minerals. Therefore, you can use this detection system in the ground. Also, they work in any type of soil and the saltwater. But they do catch unwanted junk which is a negative side of the PI model.

Also, if we talk about the difference in price, then PI models are more expensive as compared to the VLF detection systems.

Operating Depth

How far your metal detector can go inside the water is important to know. Some metal detectors can go as deep as 250 to 300 feet and work perfectly fine. Whereas some metal detectors can only detect metals as far as 10 to 15 feet. Moreover, there are also other metal detectors that come with waterproof coil and stem, whereas some other machines only feature waterproof coils.

So, it depends on your needs and the work you do to either select a detector that offers good operating depth or to select one that features only waterproof searching coil.

If you don’t know the art of swimming or haven’t gone deep underwater, then the metal detectors that can go more than 200 feet below the surface are not for you. But if you mostly do scuba diving, then you must go for that. However, it is recommended to select a product with greater depth because you never know when you will be going to hunt for treasure deep down the water.

Weight and Buoyancy

Another important factor that you must consider is the weight and buoyancy. As you are going to dive into the water with the metal detector so it must have neutral buoyancy so that it fails to sink quickly. Also, the metal detector must not be so light to move upwards frequently.

So, here, balance is the key. Therefore, it is necessary to check the weight of the metal detector before buying to ensure that it will not sink too quickly or try to float constantly to the top.

Accuracy

Accuracy is the key for metal detectors. If you have a metal detector that is not accurate, then you won’t be able to find the treasure on time. Each model differs from the other one in terms of accuracy. So, before purchasing your ideal metal detector, it is necessary to read the product description. Also, it is essential to read the reviews of the users to ensure that you are buying the right product.

If you are not going to find anything deep then you may not need a metal detector having long-range and accuracy. But if you always go deep inside the water, then accuracy and range count much because as you go deep, it becomes hard to find the hidden objects.

Versatility

Your metal detector should be versatile. Some of the metal detectors only work in freshwater, whereas there are many detecting machines that work in both salt and freshwater. These types of detectors feature pulse induction technology that allows them to work both in fresh and saltwater. Also, if you want to look for metal objects on land, then these metal detectors will also help you out.

Other than this, if you want to use an underwater metal detector on land, then you have to focus on the weight of the machine as you will surely find it heavy to handle the machine on land.

Locking System

A good locking system is also quite essential for a metal detector. If you are buying a detector that is fully submersible, then it must have a strong locking system to keep the entire unit together even when the strong waves meet the stem.

Weather-resistant

As you can use the underwater metal detector on land so it must be weather-resistant if you are willing to use it on land to find out the metal objects.

Battery Backup Feature

Battery backup feature is also quite essential. The reason for this is that it will not allow the detector to shut down when the original battery loses its power. The unused extra battery will get activated when the used one becomes zero.

Additional Features/Accessories

If we talk about the additional features/accessories, then waterproof headphones are an excellent addition. Also, 2-tone audio is an improvement and must-have in your selected metal detector. Other than this, some metal detectors come with extra detecting features. When they detect any object, they vibrate as well as the bright light flashes to make you aware that you are quite near to your treasure.

Price

Price is another thing that you must look at. Basic and simple underwater metal detectors are low in price, whereas advanced machines are expensive. Also, the type of detection determines the price of the metal detector. If there is VLF detection, then the price will be low, but if there is a pulse induction, then the price will be higher.

Best Underwater Metal Detecting Machine Reviews

1. Fisher CZ21-8 Underwater Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $1400

• Product Dimensions: 12 x 6 x 21 inches
• Item Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Water Depth: 250 feet
• Operating Frequency: 5 and 15 kHz

If you are searching for the best underwater metal detector, then this Fisher CZ21-8 is the perfect choice for you. It can work as deep as 250 feet underwater to help you to find the treasure you want to uncover. No matter whether it is salt or freshwater, it works effectively.

This metal detector can work on dual frequencies that are 5 kHz and 15 kHz as it is a pulse induction machine. It comes with both 8-inch and 10-inch coil options and features a Fourier domain signal analysis. It offers precise pinpointing and the VCO option for accurate target pinpointing and identification.

This detection machine also performs quite well in the mineralized soil. Also, it has a control box that is quite easy to use. If you are getting weaker signals for anything, you can increase the volume to listen to the signals carefully.

There is also an all-metal auto-tune mode, but the machine also features a discrimination mode having three different tones. The highest and loudest tone is for coins and jewelry. A medium-level tone is for gold and foil. And when you hear the low tone, then it means there is iron near you.

Other than this, its pole assembly is fully collapsible. Also, control housing is removable. Moreover, it requires four 9V alkaline batteries, weighs 6.6 pounds, and comes with a 2-year warranty.

2. Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II Underwater Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $1000

• Product Dimensions: 26.5 x 12.4 x 3.3 inches
• Item Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Water Depth: 200 feet

This Sea Hunter Mark II from Garrett is another high-quality underwater metal detector that has an operating depth of 200 feet. For beach hunting and scuba diving, this metal detector is an ideal choice for you.

It comes with a pulse induction technology that avoids the salt and ground mineralization and only focuses on metals, coins, jewelry, and gold. The metal detector comes with four stem arrangements. You can either make it short or long to make your searching easier no matter whatever the location and situation are.

The Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II has an excellent discrimination system having two different modes. One is the Standard, and the other one is Discrete. Its custom-designed housing and multiple configurations make it different and superior to many of the underwater metal detectors.

It has a rapid target response, offers greater sensitivity, and features an 8-inch epoxy-filled search coil. It also features a hip mount belt that helps you to do long searches with ease. It reduces the detector weight to make long searches easier and safer for you.

3. Minelab Equinox 800 Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $999

• Product Dimensions: 56.7 x 12.28 x 4.96 inches
• Item Weight: 2.96 pounds
• Water Depth: 100 feet

MINELAB offers a Equinox 800 Metal Detector that is completely waterproof having an operating depth of 100 feet. It comes with Waterproof Coil so it won’t sink into the water. Also, its lightweight keeps the perfect balance between floating and sinking.

The Equinox 800 Metal Detector comes with a EQX 11” Double-D 11-inch coil that offers excellent sensitivity of pulse induction detection. The searching coil is quite sensitive to gold, but it doesn’t mean that it is not suitable for detecting other metals. The pulse induction technology helps to find the treasure in the saltwater and mineralized ground.

Other than this, the metal detector features an adjustable pulse delay that helps you to find your targets easier. It decreases the noise from junk and black sand.

Moreover, it is quite easy to use and requires eight AA batteries to make it operational.

4. Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $600

• Product Dimensions: 22 x 11 x 5 inches
• Item Weight: 3.03 pounds
• Water Depth: 10 feet

This Garrett AT Pro is a waterproof metal detector but can only work 10 feet deep inside the water. For in-depth findings, it is not designed for that purpose. It also works perfectly in wet, dusty, and humid environments.

It is ideally used to find jewels, coins, gold nuggets, and caches. It comes with two searching modes. One is the Standard mode, and the second one is the Professional search mode. Standard mode is for beginners that simplifies the audio signals. And the Professional mode provides with detailed audio feedback.

The true all-metal mode allows the users to hear the characteristics of the metals they are targeting. The machine is also is equipped with high-res iron discrimination that is responsible for splitting useful targets from trash. The 0 to 99 digital target ID scale differentiates the conductivity of one target from the other one.

The last thing about this metal detector is that it is easy to use, and requires 4 A batteries to become operational.

5. Garrett ATX Deepseeker Underwater Metal Detector – Most Expensive Underwater Metal Detector

• Product Dimensions: 25 x 20 x 10.5 inches
• Item Weight: 34.9 pounds
• Water Depth: 10 feet

This Garrett ATX Deepseeker metal detector can work well underwater. It has an operating depth of 10 feet. Beyond this depth, it fails to work. It is a pulse induction machine having a large size searching coil that works well in saltwater to help you in finding your targets fast and with accuracy.

You can either set the default setting or choose between four different settings according to your needs. In a default setting, the machine will change itself to focus on your target. Also, you can adjust the four settings as per your preference.

It also has a simple LED screen having indicators to show you the signal strength of your target as well as your current settings. Moreover, you can adjust the volume control to listen to the faint signals carefully. Also, you have a waterproof speaker to get notified without using the headphones.

The machine also has a quick iron check feature and offers adjustable discrimination option.

6. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $200

• Product Dimensions: 28.2 x 10 x 6.2 inches
• Item Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Water Depth: 8 feet
• Operating Frequency: 6.7 kHz

This Bounty Hunter TK4 is made for extremely tough conditions. It comes with an 8-inch waterproof searching coil that can locate your coin size targets up to 8 inches deep. But if you want to look for more significant targets, then the machine can only work up to 3 inches deep.

It comes with an operating frequency of 6.7 kHz and requires two 9V alkaline batteries for operation. If we talk about its operating features, then there are three modes of operation. The all-metal motion mode notifies you on the detection of every metal. The discrimination model differentiates between the target types. Also, there is a 2-tone audio mode.

The metal detector doesn’t count the minerals. Also, its disc/notch control differentiates between the useless metals and the useful targets.

Other than this, its control interface is easy to use. Just turn the knobs and select your desired settings. Moreover, there is a built-in speaker, so there is no need to wear the headphones.

7. SAKOBS Waterproof Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $150

• Product Dimensions: 33.46 x 11.42 x 6.3 inches
• Item Weight: 4.5 pounds

Another great waterproof metal detector on the list is from New Home Innovations that both adults and kids can use for hours to find the treasures inside the ground. You can use it on the beach or in your garden or backyard. It helps you to find metals, coins, jewelry, and gold along with the pieces of silver.

The best thing about this metal detecting machine is that it is super-easy to use. Its pin-pointer function, built-in speakers, one-touch auto-tune option, and the comfortable arm-supporting handle make treasure hunting easier and safer.

The sensor installed in the searching coil is of high-sensitivity. You can look for your targets with ease and in no time. The discrimination feature lets you forget the unwanted metals. Also, the low-battery indicator notifies that you have less time to look for your treasure.

A multi-functional folding shovel is also included in the package. Also, a beginner’s guide and a user guide are always there to help you.

8. wedigout Fully Waterproof Underwater Metal Detector – Best Metal Detector Under $300

• Product Dimensions: 14.53 x 6.06 x 2.68 inches
• Item Weight: 325 Gram
• Water Depth: 100 feet

Another pulse induction metal detecting machine on the list is from TTLIFE. It is designed to use both in saltwater and freshwater. The machine can work as deep as 100 feet to help you find your coins, jewelry, metals, and other things.

This metal detector assists you in finding the right place where your target is buried. It not only works underwater but also in any type of soil or land. When it detects the target, the unit alerts you with the pulses of vibration.  Also, the bright white light flashes when the detector finds the target. When the probe tip reaches the target precision pinpointing, you will notice the increase in the frequency of the vibration pulses.

Moreover, the machine features an easy tilt on and off option. Also, there is a low battery indicator that senses the weak position of the battery and alerts you before shutting down automatically.

If we talk about the downside of the product, then according to some users, the vibration feature starts causing problems just after few months of usage.

9. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector, 8-inch Waterproof Coil Detects – Features an Earphone Jack

• Product Dimensions: 28.25 x 10 x 6.25 inches
• Item Weight: 3.70 lbs
• Operating Frequency: 6.6 kHz

This waterproof metal detector from Bounty Hunter comes with three dominant detection modes. The all-metal mode allows you to find any metal with ease. The adjustable discrimination mode helps you to differentiate between the target objects. And the 2-tone audio mode comes with an automatic iron rejection.

It is designed to work in both salt and freshwater. Its 8-inch waterproof searching coil is highly sensitive. Also, the coil and stem are weather resistant. Moreover, the stem is also adjustable.

The Bounty Hunter also features a 3.5 mm earphone jack so that you can hear the alerts nicely with the help of an earphone. Its control panel features a meter and two knobs along with additional buttons for slight customization with the search.

But the main drawback of this product is that it doesn’t work deep down the water.

10. 750 Underwater Metal Detector for Diving – Lightest Underwater Metal Detector

• Product Dimensions: 20 x 5 x 5 inches
• Item Weight: 1 pounds
• Water Depth: 100 feet
• Operating Frequency: 6.8 kHz

The last but not the least underwater metal detector on the list is from VVinRC. It has an operating depth of 100 feet. Its highly sensitive search coil detects the exact location of the target objects. You can either use it in water, on land, or in soil because of its pulse induction technology.

It features tilt on and off option that makes it easy to use. When the coil detects the metal, it starts to vibrate and the LED light flashes. Its built-in advanced microprocessor and auto-tuning feature offer stable detection depth that helps you to find the correct location of the target all through its battery life.

It requires a 9V battery for operation, but it is not included in the package. You have to buy it separately.