Best Beach Metal Detectors in 2025 - Picks by Bart Davis, Owner of Big Boys Hobbies
What is My top Beach detector?
My top two are the Minelab Manticore and XP Deus II. Pick the Manticore if you want max stability, a bigger screen, and great target ID on wet sand. Pick the Deus II if you want the lightest feel and 66 ft waterproofing for diving.What is the best beach detector under $500?
The Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack is hard to beat. It is waterproof, comes with a solid accessory kit, and has three selectable frequencies for different beach conditions.Can I use these detectors in saltwater and wet sand?
Yes. Multi-frequency detectors like the Minelab Equinox 900, Nokta Legend Pro Pack, Minelab Manticore, and XP Deus II are made to handle conductive salt and black sand. Always check your model’s waterproof rating."Do I really need multi-frequency for the beach?
I recommend it. Simultaneous or selectable multi-frequency gives better stability in saltwater and helps pull good targets out of the trash. If you are on a tight budget, the Nokta Score and Double Score do fine on dry sand.How deep can I submerge these detectors?
Typical ratings: Manticore and Equinox 900 up to about 16 ft; XP Deus II up to 66 ft (IP68). The Nokta Score series is usually rated up to 16 ft. Always check your specific model page."How do I get more battery life for long hunts?
Use the RNB Power-X external battery. It adds 25+ hours and works with Minelab Manticore, all Minelab Equinox models, and the Minelab X-Terra series (Elite, Pro, Expedition Pack). See it on our site."Which detector is best for beginners?
"Start with the Nokta Score for a simple, budget-friendly setup. Step up to the Nokta Double Score for dual-frequency. If you want the most under $500, go with the Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack."⭐ From Bart Davis, owner of Big Boys Hobbies — a small, family-owned shop. See why detectorists rate us 5-stars: Read our Google Reviews.
Best Beach Metal Detectors in 2025: My Top Picks by Performance & Price
Hi, I’m Bart Davis, owner of Big Boys Hobbies. I wrote this guide to make choosing a beach detector simple. My family and I run a mom-and-pop shop, and we test gear the same way you use it — on real beaches, in wet sand, and out in the surf.
Bart’s Top Pick: Minelab Manticore
Why I like it: very stable, sturdy build, big easy-to-read screen, simple menus, great target ID, and strong depth on most beaches. Also nice: you do not need a wired antenna in the water.
Here’s how I break things down so you can match a detector to your budget and your beach:
- High-End — Elite performance for serious hunters.
- Mid-Range — Strong power and value without overspending.
- Entry-Level (Under $499) — Smart starter choices.
High-End (~$1,200+)
- Minelab Manticore — Bart’s pick
- XP Deus II
Best For: Advanced users who want top depth, accurate target ID, and strong saltwater performance.
| Feature | Minelab Manticore | XP Deus II |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Multi-IQ+ | Fast Multi-Frequency (FMF) |
| Waterproof | Up to ~16 ft | Up to ~66 ft (IP68) |
| Wireless Audio | Yes | Fully wireless system |
| Target ID | 2D visual target mapping | Graphical and audio indicators |
| Build | Rugged, sturdy | Ultra-light and modular |
| Price | ~$1,299 | ~$1,299 |
Check out the RNB Power-X external battery. Adds 25+ hours and works with the Minelab Manticore, all Minelab Equinox models, and the Minelab X-Terra series (Elite, Pro, Expedition Pack). Why pick the XP Deus II?
Super light and fully wireless, waterproof to 66 ft, and it can sift through heavy iron and trash very well — especially with the 9" coil for target separation.
Mid-Range ($500 - $1,000)
Best For: Weekend hunters who want multi-frequency power and waterproof performance without the high-end price.
| Feature | Equinox 900 | Legend Pro Pack | X-Terra Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Multi-IQ | SMF | Selectable VLF |
| Waterproof | Up to ~16 ft | Up to ~10 ft | Up to ~16 ft |
| Wireless Audio | Yes | Bluetooth | Wired |
| Display | Advanced digital | Full-color LCD | Numeric LCD |
| Accessories | Wireless headphones | Coil and charger | Starter kit |
| Price | ~$999 | ~$699 - $799 | ~$449 |
Entry-Level (Under $499)
Best For: New detectorists who want waterproofing and strong performance without going over $500.
| Model | Score | Double Score | Triple Score Pro Pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frequencies | 15 kHz | 15 & 30 kHz | 5 / 15 / 30 kHz |
| Waterproof | Up to ~16 ft | Up to ~16 ft | Up to ~16 ft |
| Display | Numeric LCD | Enhanced LCD | LCD with tone & vibration |
| Audio | Wired | Wired | Wired + Bluetooth-ready |
| Accessories | Coil cover | Charger & headphones | Headphones, coil cover, charger, digging tool |
| Price | ~$299 | ~$399 | ~$499 |
Quick Comparison
| Tier | Top Models | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| High-End | Manticore, XP Deus II | ~$1,299+ |
| Mid-Range | Equinox 900, Legend Pro, X-Terra Elite | $449 - $999 |
| Entry-Level | Score, Double Score, Triple Score | Under $499 |
Final Recap
- Need top performance? Minelab Manticore or XP Deus II
- Best value mid-range? Equinox 900 or Legend Pro Pack
- Best under $500? Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack
Beach Metal Detector FAQ (2025)
What is the best beach metal detector in 2025?
My top two are the Minelab Manticore and the XP Deus II. Go Manticore for stability and a big, easy screen. Go Deus II if you want the lightest feel and diving to 66 ft.
What is the best beach detector under $500?
The Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack gives you a lot of tech for the money and comes ready to hunt.
Can I use these detectors in saltwater and wet sand?
Yes. Multi-frequency machines like the Equinox 900, Legend Pro Pack, Manticore, and Deus II handle salty, mineralized beaches well.
Do I really need multi-frequency for the beach?
I recommend it. It keeps the machine stable and helps separate good targets from trash. On a tighter budget, the Nokta Score and Double Score are fine on dry sand and light surf.
How can I get more battery life for long hunts?
Use the RNB Power-X external battery. It adds 25+ hours and works with the Manticore, all Minelab Equinox, and the Minelab X-Terra series (Elite, Pro, Expedition Pack).
How deep can I submerge these detectors?
As a general rule: Manticore and Equinox 900 up to ~16 ft; Deus II up to ~66 ft. Always check your model page for exact numbers.
Which detector is best for beginners?
Start with the Nokta Score or step up to the Nokta Double Score. For the most features under $500, pick the Triple Score Pro Pack.
Contact Us
If you want real help from a real person, call or email me. I’ll listen to how and where you hunt and help you pick the right setup.
- Phone: (405) 206-9010
- Email: Bart@BigBoysHobbies.net
- Website: www.BigBoysHobbies.net
- Google Reviews: See what customers say
Written by Bart Davis, owner of Big Boys Hobbies. Thanks for supporting a small, family business.