The 10 Best Underwater Metal Detectors – [Reviews & Rankings]

If you want to take scuba diving to the next level, an underwater metal detector can help you explore a whole new world. They’re great tools for discovering what’s beneath the surface of a body of water. The best underwater metal detectors are comfortable, accurate, and waterproof.

Underwater metal detectors are designed similarly to regular metal detectors. The difference is that underwater metal detectors can withstand the pressure of being deep underwater. They’re also made of waterproof materials that ensure functionality isn’t compromised.

Such detectors use a battery-powered search coil to transmit an electromagnetic field to a metal object beneath the surface. The object then absorbs the electromagnetism and sends it back to the search coil. The underwater metal detector will then visually or audibly indicate the signal (Source). 

Underwater metal detectors come in two varieties: Very-Low-Frequency (VLF) and pulse. Pulse underwater metal detectors are capable of searching through highly mineralized sand, and thus are capable of finding more objects (Source)

Whether you’re an archaeologist, hobbyist, or a treasure hunter, an underwater metal detector is a great investment. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and not difficult to maintain.

Prior to purchasing an underwater metal detector, you’ll need to consider what kinds of objects you’re searching for and if you’re in saltwater or freshwater. You’ll also need to consider its depth rating, weight, and battery life. The length of the arm should also be considered.

The next time you go diving for treasure, do it with one of these top-rated underwater metal detectors. 

How Do Metal Detectors Work?

In metal detectors, electric current and electromagnetism have a significant role to play in finding objects. Here’s how they work:

• With the help of a power source, like a battery, the transmitter circuit in the detecting device starts. That causes the electric current to travel through the handle to the metal coil present at the end.
• As the current is transmitted through the coil, it generates a magnetic field around the whole part.
• As you sweep the electromagnetic detector coil over a metal object, the magnetic field passes through the object.
• That field generates an electric current, which flows through the metal object.
• As a result, the current further creates a magnetic field around the object.
• It reverses the current flow back and forth through a loudspeaker attached to the receiver coil. The current then causes the speaker to create noise, which lets you detect the presence of the object.

How Much Does A Metal Detector Cost? 

Metal detectors have a variable cost depending upon the features provided. Besides the brand, factors that affect pricing include the construction, size of the metal coil, ability of a display, operability on various terrains, performance, etc.

Expect a metal detector to cost you at least $200. Some models may cost as much as $2,000 or more. More expensive units will have a better battery life, multipurpose functionality, detection depth, etc.

Comparing The 10 Best Underwater Metal Detectors

1. Treasure Cove TC-7010 – Best Overall

The Treasure Cove TC-7010 will effectively find small items underwater. You can dive up to 10 meters and search through reefs or wade through shallow rivers.

Additionally, it can find treasure buried up to 8 inches in sediment. The handle extends from 42 to 48 inches for better reach.

This metal detector makes metal detecting underwater easy with its design. It has an integrated waterproof headset. The alarm emitted and LED flashing light will assist the user in locating treasures.

Built for extended hours of time, this metal detector will last up to 10 hours with 8 AA batteries.

Overall, this detector would be the best metal detector for freshwater, or the best for freshwater metal detecting.

2. Tesoro Sand Shark – Underwater Metal Detector For Beginners

The Tesoro Sand Shark features a lifetime warranty. With the state of the art Pulse Induction technology, this device does not see a difference in salt to fresh waters.

This detector has two different operating modes for a tailored experience: VCO and Normal. VCO allows the device to emit a sound that gets louder as the target is closer. While normal mode still emits a sound, the tone stays the same.

Additionally, with the Sand Shark, you can dive up to 60 meters safely without damage to the detector. The Tesoro Sand Shark also allows you to turn the sensitivity up to find items in deeper areas (at the expense of battery power).

With a lightweight design, users will not experience fatigue while metal detecting. It could be labeled as the best metal detector for beginners in carrying detectors underwater.

3. Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II – Most Ideal For Deepwater Hunting

For scuba diving and beach hunting, the Garett Sea Hunter Mark II is a prime choice. With its fully waterproof, state of the art design, it is ideal for both saltwater and fresh water.

Plus, it features a patented Trash Elimination Mode. In this mode, the device can decipher between unwanted items and smaller valuables with the same frequency.

In addition to that, it boasts full- range Pulse Induction discrimination. With the 8-inch fully submersible coil and body, you can deep-sea hunt up to 60 meters. The detachable control panel allows you to customize how the device is held.

Three modes (All Metal Deep Seeking Mode, Sensitivity/Depth adjustments and Discrete Trash Elimination mode) allow this device to be tailored the ultimate user-friendly experience.

For first time users, the package includes an instructional video. Thus, this owns the crown of being the best metal detector for beginners.

4. KKmoon Waterproof Handheld – Underwater Metal Detector with Pinpointer

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With its handheld design, this device makes diving for treasures easy. Similarly, at 1.2 pounds, carrying this device is no chore.

The KKmoon Pinpointer is fully submersible up to 30 meters for extended dives. Notably, instead of having to dive with headphones, this device features LED light and vibrating system to alert the user that there is metal around.

Moreover, this underwater metal detector also offers cutting-edge ease of use; with a simple tilt, the device turns on or off. The built-in microprocessor offers automatic tuning as well as stable depth detection, too, which allows users to have accurate detecting throughout its battery life.

Thus, with automatic tuning, there is no adjustment necessary. Therefore, this minimalistic design is aimed at the fast-paced hunter always on the go.

5. Deteknix Scuba Tector – Cheapest Underwater Metal Detector

The Deteknix Suba Tector features a lanyard for safe keeping while underwater.

Unlike others, this underwater metal detector has a built-in 3.7v 500 mAh Li-Po battery. Additionally, it has an operating frequency of 95 kHz for accurate readings.

Furthermore, as it is built for scuba diving, this device can be submerged up to 60 meters for deep exploration. It also boasts a 5×4 powerful coil for accurate readings and no false positives in salt water.

Hence, with its compact design, its 16-inch handle makes the device itself easy to bring along while diving deep underwater. Its effective design includes an easy to use On/Off switch, too.

6. Fisher CZ21-8 – High Performance Detector

If you want to go for finding valuables in the shallow waters of the sea or lake, then the CZ21-8 by Fisher could be a viable underwater metal detector. With a decent detection depth of 250 feet, you can rely on it for finding items without any issues.

Furthermore, its workability is not affected by fresh or salty water. This feature is possible due to the presence of Fisher’s Pulse Induction technology that helps the machine operate with a dual-frequency at 15kHz and 5kHz.

This metal detector is undoubtedly a user-friendly option for beginners, as it operates with buttons to find things in water bodies accurately. With the help of audio alerts, you can easily detect metals that you are searching for.

7. Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – Best Handheld Undererwater Metal Detector

The Garrett AT Pro is a versatile metal detector suitable for fresh/beach water hunting, competitive sessions, etc. Furthermore, this multi-terrain detection device gives you complete control while finding gold nuggets, jewelry, caches, relics, coins, with high accuracy.

It is possible because of the impressive 8.5″ by 11″ metal coil for searching items like a pro. Garrett gives you precision through its robust and ergonomic design. Additionally, the belt mount on the rear position comfortably fits your arm to keep it steady in your hands.

You can use it underwater as it is entirely waterproof. The addition of headphones makes it increase its efficiency in finding items on land quickly.

8. Fisher F75-LTD – Most Accurate Underwater Metal Detector

For high-performance accuracy, the Fisher F75-LTD metal detector has limited competition in its class. You will be able to use it precisely for in-depth explorations and hunting to find objects of varying sizes with this device.

Furthermore, it has been designed to ensure a robust and lightweight operation so that you can use it for hours without worrying about getting tired. This metal detector implements a trigger-driven functionality for focusing on specific items underwater through distinct audios.

With the large LCD, it is much easier to view and identify the location for cache, etc. without any hassle.

9. Minelab Excalibur II Underwater Metal Detector – Ideal Detector For Professionals

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The Minelab Excalibur II is a professional metal detector that lets you dig through various water bodies, whether salty or fresh, with ease. It includes an amplification mode that will strengthen a weak signal for a small object present even in the deep.

With the NiMH battery pack, which is rechargeable, you can get 12 hours of continuous treasure hunting in the sea with this unit. Furthermore, you will find that this underwater metal detector stays at consistent detection power even when the battery is low.

Due to the fluorescent design, you can see this tool quickly, even if you drop it accidentally in muddy water. It also includes a shaft mounted to the side to wade through shallow water while looking for valuables.

10. Fisher 1280X-8 Multipurpose – Highly Rated Underwater Metal Detector

This Fisher metal detector is a high-quality machine meant for offering quick results. The small design is lightweight and easy to control underwater without worrying about the shifting weight of the arm.

Furthermore, its simple-to-use operation gives you a metal detection depth of up to 250 feet without a hassle. For maximum accuracy, it includes a sensitivity control combined with audio identification as well.

With an operating frequency of 2.4 kHz, you can easily rely on it for finding lost items, metals, and other items while diving, surfing, wading, or even while using it on the land.

How Deep Can A Metal Detector Detect? 

Most detectors have a range of about 8 to 20 inches. However, metal detectors can be influenced by several factors to determine how deep it can detect on a terrain. Here are some of them:

• Type of buried object – The shape, model, and size of the hidden object can have a significant role to play to know the capability of a metal detector. Larger objects buried deep are more accessible to trace than smaller ones.

• Position – Objects that have a particular orientation while buried have a better chance of being found despite their depth. For instance, a hidden object that lays flat deep in the ground can be found much more comfortable than the ones in a vertical position. One reason behind it is that flatly-laid objects have a larger surface area to detect. That effectively sends the signal back to the receiving coil of the detector.

• Age – An object’s age is also a significant factor in understanding how well it is detectable when buried deep in the ground. Objects that are corroded or oxidized might be harder to detect.

• Nature of the terrain – The sand or soil present around the buried object can also affect the detection capability of the device.

• Frequency – Detectors with low frequency can find small objects much more comfortable than the ones with high frequencies.

Choosing an Underweater Detector: Freshwater vs Saltwater

• Saltwater: The presence of minerals in saltwater have an effect on how your detector functions. In particular, very-low-frequency (VLF) detectors are greatly affected by the minerals in saltwater. Pulse induction (PI) detectors can deal with saltwater conditions much better.
• Freshwater: If you need an underwater metal detector for freshwater only, then the VLF models would be a better choice. That’s because they are less likely to detect random junk. This means they are more precise in freshwater conditions.

If you are in pursuit of an all-around underwater metal detector that will work fine in any conditions, then a VLF type would be your safe bet. It is more adept at working in all kinds of conditions.

Underwater Accessories

While not absolutely necessary, underwater accessories can notably improve your experience. The following are underwater accessories you may consider using:

• Waterproof headphones: The target signals can be fainted by the wind. The noisy waves will make matters worse. This is where waterproof headphones come in. They will be of great help to you when going underwater.
• Chest harness: Metal detectors are often on the heavy side. Five pounds could be like a mountain when you need to sway them for several hours. Chest harness will make it easier for you to carry the detector and maintain balance by taking some weight from your arms. By the way, your water exploration will be much safer.
• A long steel trowel: Instead of scrambling with hands, you will be able to move sand much faster while digging at the ocean floor. Whether you are walking along the surf or snorkeling at low tide, the steel trowel will allow you to stay standing whilst uncovering a target.
• Mesh pouch: This piece of equipment is very useful when scuba diving or snorkeling. Whatever the case, you will need something to put your finds. A mesh pouch is ideal for that purpose.

Does the Length Matter?

A longer stem can be helpful beneath the water surface, as it will allow you to reach a bit farther when discovering new areas. It’s not of great importance in most cases, though. There are other things to consider, including:

• Balance – While a long stem is almost always preferred, it will be for naught if your metal detector doesn’t balance out its weight evenly. It’s going to be top-heavy or bottom-heavy. In the event of top-heavy detectors, you will face shoulder pain because of the heavy control panel. Bottom-heavy detectors feature a heavy search coil, which causes arm fatigue.
• Locking system – As for metal detectors with a long stem, a competent locking system is a must-have. Such a device is more prone to weight distribution and breakage. A locking system will save yourself the hassle of dealing with repairs.

Each with their own highlights, this guide with help you find the best underwater metal detector for your activity.

Best Features

An underwater metal detector that is packed with features will go above and beyond just working in wet areas. As a professional, you will want to have these features:

• Waterproof stem – Besides the search coil, you will want the stem is waterproof too. An adjustable stem will enable you to extend the range and find more treasure.
• Saltwater & freshwater usage – Your metal detector should work in both saltwater and freshwater. Check it for saltwater usage, as not every model supports it.
• Weather resistance – Underwater metal detectors are designed with moisture and rain in mind. The advanced models incorporate a variety of weatherproof features for best results.
• Battery backup – This feature will help you save yourself the hassle of swapping out batteries when searching. Aside from storing an extra battery in your device, it will activate an unused battery when you run out of the original power source.

Things to Know Before Buying an Underwater Metal Detector

Types

Very Low-Frequency Metal Detectors

These are used for finding metallic items such as jewelry or coins in shallow waters or sand. Due to their sensitivity for metal, they can be affected by minerals found in the ground.

Additionally, most of these can’t be fully submerged, so it is important to purchase a detector tailored to your desired experience.

Pulse Induction Metal Detector

Unlike typical metal detectors, these are sensitive to precious metals. They are not affected by minerals and salt.

PI detectors also help to separate trash and unwanted metals in a stash. That is why these underwater metal detectors are the perfect choice to bring with you for a dive.

Pitch

A regular metal detector will pick up on the presence of nearby metals by sounding off a high pitch. The heavier or closer the metal is, the higher the pitch sound you’ll hear from the metal detector.

On the other hand, an underwater metal detector will not act in that manner. This is because the sound doesn’t travel underwater; hence, this feature is useless to divers.

Underwater metal detectors will display a needle on a gauge that can detect any level of metallic content once the metal is in reach.

However, as an added benefit, recent technology of such detectors allows for waterproof headphones that omit unnecessary noise around you.

Weight

Weights of underwater metal detectors vary greatly, ranging from 1-6 pounds respectively. They tend to be lighter than regular detectors used on land.

As you’ll be moving swiftly and using this device in deep waters, you don’t want your detector to be too heavy. However, you also don’t want it to be super light; otherwise, it may float away in the water.

More Underwater Metal Detecting Tips

What Are You Hunting?

Different metals give off different types of frequencies. So, to determine the metal detector you are buying, make a list of items you will be searching for and prioritize the more important ones.

Certain detectors have more strength than others. For divers, it is important to make sure your device can go underwater.

Comparing Metal Detector Brands

Every manufacturer highlights their product as the best. Being the best means quality. So, when buying, you want to compare the best features to tailor your experience.

You want to check the technology behind these detectors for frequencies. Some detectors have more powerful coils than others. Coil size helps determine where you can metal detect.

Compact designs are new and allow prolonged hours of hunting. When you don’t fatigue easily, you can hunt accurately for longer. Smaller devices help the hunter keep safe when diving greater depths.

FAQ’s About Underwater Metal Detectors

Why Are PI Detectors Better for Salt Water?

Being a unique environment, saltwater is challenging for metal detecting. The majority of detectors are useless in seawater, which is why you should use a PI (pulse induction) or a dual function VLF (very low frequency) metal detector.

Most people prefer PI over VLF models because they are not affected by the mineralization of sand and soil.  However, PI devices cannot discriminate as well as their VLF counterparts. They shoot bursts of electronic pulses and receive back a signal when hitting a metal object.

You may also use a VLF metal detector if it comes with a mode for saltwater. VLF devices detect metal objects on a low frequency, and they have the ability to discriminate quickly. Also, they are generally lighter than pulse detectors.

Are All Metal Detectors Waterproof?

No, they aren’t. Even though some metal detectors are equipped with waterproof search coils, they are unusable in water since their control box isn’t waterproof. That means you will only be able to submerge the shaft and search coil of your detector.

Waterproof metal detectors, by contrast, can be fully submerged thanks to the waterproof control box. That makes them suitable for both underwater metal detecting and scuba diving. Yet, be sure to check the depth rating to know how deep you can go down below the water surface with your detector.

Ready to Buy the Best Underwater Metal Detector?

If you’re seriously looking for an underwater metal detector, these five are a fantastic place to start with as they are packed with features.

Moreover, the devices we chose are ideal for professionals and beginners alike. After much research, we listed the devices with the ideal quality, power source, pitch, and waterproof capabilities.

As always, we hope you find success with your underwater adventure!