Best Metal Detectors of 2026 (So Far) – Our Top Picks
By Bart Davis – Owner, Big Boys Hobbies Metal Detectors
I get asked this every day: “Bart, what’s the best metal detector right now?”
The real answer depends on where you hunt (beach, parks, relic sites, trashy ground), but these are the best metal detectors of 2026 so far based on real-world performance and what my customers are having success with.
Quick Jump
- 2026 Comparison Chart (Quick Look)
- #1 Minelab Manticore – Best Overall Beach Machine
- #2 XP Deus II – Best Iron & Trash Relic Machine
- #3 Nokta Triple Score – Best Value Multi-Frequency
- #4 Minelab Equinox 900 – Best All-Around “Do-Everything”
- #5 Minelab X-Terra Elite Expedition Pack – Best Mid-Range Bundle
- FAQ
- Why Buy From Big Boys Hobbies
🥇 #1 Best Overall and Salt or Fresh Water Beach Metal Detector – Minelab Manticore
If your main goal is saltwater beaches, wet sand, surf, and black sand, the Minelab Manticore is the best overall beach machine I sell.
It’s extremely stable in salt conditions, hits small gold and deep coins hard, and the target info helps you make better dig decisions in real-world beach hunting.
Why the Manticore Wins on the Beach
- Rock-solid stability in conductive saltwater
- Excellent depth on rings and coins
- Clear ferrous vs non-ferrous target information
- Waterproof for surf and shallow water
Shop: Minelab Manticore | Back to top
🥈 #2 Best Relic and Iron & Trash Metal Detector– XP Deus II
If you hunt old homesites, nail beds, iron-infested relic ground, or trashy parks, the XP Deus II is an absolute weapon.
This is the machine I point people to when they’re frustrated that good targets are getting masked by iron. It separates fast, talks clearly, and stays comfortable all day because it’s lightweight and wireless.
Why the Deus II Dominates Iron
- Very fast recovery speed for unmasking targets
- Excellent audio nuance in trash and iron
- Fully wireless and lightweight (easy to swing longer)
- Relic performance is strong even in bad ground
Shop: XP Deus II | Back to top
🥉 #3 Best Value Multi-Frequency Detector – Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack
The Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack moves up to #3 because it gives you real multi-frequency performance and an excellent kit for the money.
It’s simple enough for newer detectorists, but it has the controls and performance to keep you from “outgrowing” it fast.
Why People Love the Triple Score
- Simultaneous multi-frequency performance at a great price
- Strong iron handling and useful target audio
- Waterproof and versatile (parks, fields, beach)
- Pro Pack value: ready to hunt without buying a bunch of extras
Shop: Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack | Back to top
🎯 #4 Best All-Around “Do-Everything” Detector – Minelab Equinox 900
The Minelab Equinox 900 is one of the best picks for people who want one detector that does a little of everything.
It’s lightweight, easy to get dialed in, and performs well on coins, jewelry, relics, and occasional beach trips.
Why the Equinox 900 Stays a Top Pick
- Balanced performance across many types of hunting
- Lightweight and comfortable for longer hunts
- Great “one detector” choice for most people
Shop: Minelab Equinox 900 | Back to top
🔎 #5 Best Mid-Range Bundle Value – Minelab X-Terra Elite Expedition Pack
The Minelab X-Terra Elite Expedition Pack is at #5 because it’s a solid performer, and the bundle value is hard to beat for the price.
If you want a strong detector with a great “ready-to-go” setup without jumping into premium pricing, this is a smart move.
Why the Expedition Pack Is Worth It
- Excellent mid-range performance for parks, fields, and the beach
- Waterproof, capable, and easy to learn
- Bundle value that gets you detecting fast
Shop: X-Terra Elite Expedition Pack | Back to top
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach metal detector in 2026?
For saltwater beaches and wet sand, the Minelab Manticore is my best overall beach pick because it stays stable in salt and still hits deep coins and gold jewelry.
What detector is best for iron and trash?
The XP Deus II is the best iron & trash relic machine on this list because of its speed and separation when targets are masked.
What’s the best value multi-frequency detector right now?
The Nokta Triple Score Pro Pack is one of the best values because you get strong multi-frequency performance and a loaded kit for the money.
Why Buy From Big Boys Hobbies?
When you call or email Big Boys Hobbies, you talk directly to me — Bart. No call centers, no scripted answers. I’ll help you pick the right detector for where you hunt, and I’m here after the sale if you need help dialing it in.
Call: 405-206-9010
Email: bart@bigboyshobbies.net