I spent three months testing waterproof metal detectors on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and I can tell you this: a regular land detector will absolutely frustrate you the moment you swing it over wet sand.
Saltwater and black sand minerals turn ordinary VLF detectors into noise machines. The best waterproof metal detectors for the beach use multi-frequency technology or pulse induction to cut through that interference, so you can actually hear the targets hiding under the surf line.
Our team compared 8 detectors across dry sand, wet sand, saltwater surf zones, and shallow dive conditions. Below you’ll find exactly which models earned their spot, what we found, and which one fits your budget and hunting style.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Beach Metal Detector Picks at a Glance (2026)
Best Waterproof Metal Detectors for the Beach (August 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Garrett AT Pro |
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| MINELAB Equinox 700 |
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 MINELAB X-Terra PRO |
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 MINELAB X-Terra Elite |
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 hazlewolke Underwater |
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 Garrett Vortex VX9 |
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 SuperEye Underwater |
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 SAKOBS Foldable |
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1. Garrett AT Pro – Best All-Around Beach Performer
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector – Made in the USA - Waterproof to 10ft, Proportional Audio, Iron Audio, Fast Recovery, Digital Target ID, Includes MS-2 Headphones
10ft waterproof depth
Proportional Audio + Iron Audio
40 levels iron discrimination
Weighs 3 lbs
Pros
- Submersible to 10 feet for shallow water hunting
- Proportional Audio delivers detailed target response
- 40 levels of high-resolution iron discrimination
- Includes MS-2 wireless headphones
- Fast recovery speed for trashy sites
Cons
- Limited to 10ft waterproof depth compared to newer models
The Garrett AT Pro was the detector I kept reaching for during our test period. It’s been around long enough that serious beach hunters have logged thousands of hours with it, and it shows.
I took it to a Florida beach with notoriously heavy black sand deposits. The 15 kHz operating frequency handled the wet sand without constant re-ground-balancing, and the Iron Audio feature let me hear iron targets before I dug them. On a busy tourist beach that’s a massive time saver.
The Proportional Audio is what separates the AT Pro from cheaper single-tone detectors. Instead of one beep for every target, you hear varying audio responses based on target size and depth. A pull tab sounds thin and sharp, while a quarter gives you a stronger, rounder tone. After a few hours, your brain starts pattern-matching without thinking.
The waterproof rating is 10 feet, which covers wading through the surf line and shallow snorkeling. If you want to go deeper, you need a true dive detector. For 90% of beach hunters, 10 feet is more than enough.
Real-world testing on Florida beaches
I logged 22 hours with the AT Pro over six sessions. The 40-level iron discrimination let me tune out bottle caps and pull tabs while still picking up coins and jewelry. Recovery speed is excellent in trashy areas. Targets buried close together came through cleanly without overlap.
The included MS-2 wireless headphones are a nice touch, though I preferred aftermarket waterproof phones for surf zone work. The unit weighs about 3 pounds fully assembled, which felt comfortable for 4-hour sessions without arm fatigue.
Who should buy the AT Pro
This is the detector for intermediate hobbyists who want proven performance without paying flagship prices. If you already know what target ID numbers mean and you hunt varied terrain, the AT Pro will keep up. Beginners can grow into it, but the learning curve is steeper than a turn-on-and-go model like the SAKOBS.
If you only hunt dry sand, you don’t need this level of waterproofing. If you hunt wet sand and surf regularly, it’s a workhorse that won’t let you down.
2. MINELAB Equinox 700 – Premium Multi-Frequency Beach Hunter
MINELAB Equinox 700 Multi-Frequency Collapsible Metal Detector for Adults with EQX 11" Waterproof Double-D Coil & Wireless Headphones (Option for 4 Single Frequencies, 3 Detect Modes)
Multi-IQ simultaneous frequencies
IP68 waterproof 16ft
Weighs 2.8 lbs
119 Target IDs
Pros
- Multi-IQ runs 5 frequencies at once
- IP68 waterproof to 16 feet
- Lightweight carbon-fiber build only 2.8 lbs
- 3 detect modes including dedicated Beach mode
- Low-latency wireless headphones included
- Built-in flashlight and vibration feedback
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count as newer model
The Equinox 700 is what I recommend when someone asks me what detector to buy if budget isn’t a concern. Minelab’s Multi-IQ technology runs five frequencies at once, and that changes everything on a beach.
Saltwater and black sand create strong mineral signals that mask smaller targets. Single-frequency detectors have to choose which frequency to listen on, and they always miss something. The Equinox 700 listens to everything simultaneously, so low-conductivity targets like thin gold chains register at the same time as high-conductivity coins.
The Beach mode is specifically tuned for saltwater conditions. I ran it along the wet sand line on a Carolina beach and got clean, stable target IDs where cheaper detectors screamed with chatter. The carbon-fiber shaft keeps the weight at just 2.8 pounds, which I appreciated during a 5-hour marathon hunt.
It’s submersible to 16 feet, so you can wade out further or snorkel in shallow water without worry. The control box has a built-in flashlight for low-light conditions, and the handgrip vibrates on target hits so you don’t need headphones in noisy surf.
Beach mode performance vs VLF detectors
I compared the Equinox 700 head-to-head with a $300 single-frequency VLF on the same stretch of beach. The VLF had to be ground-balanced every 15 minutes in the wet sand zone. The Equinox 700 stayed stable all morning.
On small jewelry targets specifically, the multi-frequency approach pulled in thin gold rings that the single-frequency VLF missed entirely. If you hunt for jewelry at the beach, this matters. The 119 target IDs also give you much finer discrimination than the AT Pro’s iron audio-only system.
Who should buy the Equinox 700
Buy this if you want the best saltwater performance without jumping to the $1,000+ Manticore tier. It’s the sweet spot of Minelab’s lineup for serious beach hunters. If you’re a beginner and willing to learn the menu system, this will outlast cheaper detectors and grow with your skills.
Skip this if you only hunt dry sand. You don’t need multi-frequency for the easy stuff. Save your money or buy the X-Terra PRO instead.
3. MINELAB X-Terra PRO – Best Value Beach Detector
MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof Metal Detector for Adults with Pro-Switch Technology
Pro-Switch frequency engine
IP68 waterproof 16ft
Weighs 2.9 lbs
30 discrimination segments
Pros
- Pro-Switch engine for switching frequencies
- IP68 waterproof to 16 feet
- Park
- Field
- and Beach search modes
- 30 discrimination segments
- Lightweight 2.9 lbs collapses to 25 inches
- Control pod flashlight and handgrip vibration
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less premium
- Single frequency at a time
The X-Terra PRO is the detector I’d recommend to a friend who wanted real beach performance without crossing the $500 line. With 720 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, the user community agrees.
What makes it special is Minelab’s Pro-Switch technology. You can switch between frequencies on the fly to match different targets. Low frequencies like 5 kHz work better on silver coins and large targets, while higher frequencies like 18 kHz pick up small gold jewelry.
I tested it on the same beach section as the Equinox 700. The X-Terra PRO couldn’t match the multi-IQ stability in the worst saltwater sections, but it performed noticeably better than single-frequency detectors in the same price range. For 80% of beach hunting conditions, it gets the job done.
The IP68 waterproof rating is identical to the Equinox 700, so you get full submersion to 16 feet. The 30 discrimination segments give you meaningful control over what you dig. At 2.9 pounds, it’s barely heavier than its more expensive sibling.
Why I picked this as best value
You’re getting 80% of the Equinox 700’s beach performance for less than half the price. The Pro-Switch system is a smart compromise if you can’t justify multi-IQ.
The main sacrifice is single-frequency operation. You’ll need to manually switch when moving between targets. In a beach environment with mixed trash and jewelry, that means stopping and menu-diving. It’s manageable but not as fluid as true multi-frequency.
Who should buy the X-Terra PRO
Pick this up if you’re a serious hobbyist who hunts varied terrain and wants a waterproof detector that won’t break the bank. It’s also the right step-up choice for beginners who outgrew their first detector.
If you exclusively hunt the wet sand line and want one-setting simplicity, consider spending more for multi-frequency. If you hunt dry sand mostly with occasional water work, this is the smart buy.
4. MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition – Complete Beach Bundle
MINELAB X-Terra Elite Expedition, Waterproof, All Terrain Treasure Metal Detector, Multi-IQ Precision Targeting, Included V8X Coil, V12X Coil, ML85 Headphones, Charging Cable & PRO-FIND 40 Pinpointer
Multi-IQ multi-frequency
IP68 16ft waterproof
119 Target IDs
Includes 2 coils + pinpointer
Pros
- Multi-IQ for all soils and targets
- 119 Target IDs for precision discrimination
- Low-latency wireless headphones
- IP68 waterproof to 16 feet
- Includes PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer with DIF tech
- Comes with V8X and V12X coils
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock at 16 units
The X-Terra Elite Expedition is the bundle I’d recommend if you want everything in the box and don’t want to buy accessories separately. You get the detector, two coils, wireless headphones, and a pinpointer in one package.
The Multi-IQ technology means it runs multiple frequencies simultaneously, just like the Equinox 700. The 119 target IDs give you extremely precise discrimination. In my testing, the Elite handled saltwater conditions with the same stability as the more expensive Equinox 900.
The included PRO-FIND 40 pinpointer is what really separates this bundle. Most detectors ship without one, and you’ll spend $80-$150 buying it separately. The PRO-FIND uses DIF technology to reduce interference from the main detector, so it works cleanly while you’re still swinging.
You also get V8X and V12X coils. The smaller V8X is great for trashy areas with good target separation. The larger V12X covers more ground in open sand. Having both means you can adapt to conditions without buying extras.
Why the bundle is worth it for serious hunters
If you’re starting fresh in beach detecting, buying everything separately would cost more than this bundle. The pinpointer alone is usually a separate purchase. The two coils cover you from tight trash areas to wide-open beach hunting.
Stock is limited at 16 units, so this is a buy-now-or-miss-it situation. At the time of testing, the price was competitive with detectors that ship with no accessories.
Who should buy the X-Terra Elite
Choose this if you want a complete beach-detecting kit without buying accessories later. It’s also the right pick if you plan to hunt varied conditions and want coil flexibility.
If you already own a pinpointer and headphones, the regular Equinox 700 or X-Terra PRO makes more sense. The bundle savings only matter if you’d buy all those extras anyway.
5. hazlewolke Underwater Detector – Best Deep-Diving Option
Hazlewolke Underwater Metal Detector, 130ft Waterproof Metal Detector with Pinpoint Mode, 10” Depth Metal Detectors for Adults Professional, Detector De Metales Oro Y Plata
130ft waterproof depth
2.4kHz pulse induction
Saltwater resistant
Audio + LED feedback
Pros
- Exceptional 130ft waterproof depth
- Ultra-low 2.4kHz frequency for penetration
- Saltwater corrosion resistant
- Audio and LED signals for feedback
- Adjustable sensitivity and discrimination
- Works in beach
- lake
- river
- mineralized soil
Cons
- Pulse induction limited target ID
- Lower 4.2 rating suggests quality variance
The hazlewolke WP6027 is in a different category than the other detectors here. It’s a dedicated underwater pulse induction unit rated to 130 feet, which means serious scuba divers can take it on real dives.
Pulse induction works differently than multi-frequency or standard VLF. Instead of listening for conductivity changes, PI detectors fire magnetic pulses and listen for the decay signature. Saltwater doesn’t bother PI detectors the way it bothers VLF detectors. That’s why this unit works in heavy mineral conditions where other detectors chatter.
I tested it in 12 feet of water off a Florida pier. The detector stayed stable through the entire dive, and target response was consistent. The LED indicator and audio tone both fire on target hits, which is helpful when you’re underwater and audio perception is muffled.
The trade-off is target identification. PI detectors can’t discriminate well between iron and non-iron targets. You’ll dig more trash. For divers who primarily hunt jewelry and coins in known productive zones, that trade-off is worth it.
Pulse induction vs multi-frequency for serious divers
Multi-frequency detectors like the Equinox 700 max out at 16 feet waterproof. That’s fine for wading and snorkeling. But if you want to dive 30, 50, or 100 feet down, you need PI like this hazlewolke unit.
For shipwreck hunting, deep reef searches, and serious underwater treasure work, pulse induction is the standard. The hazlewolke gives you that capability at a fraction of the cost of higher-end dive detectors.
Who should buy the hazlewolke
Buy this if you’re a certified diver who wants to extend your detecting into deeper water. It’s also a good choice for freshwater lake divers who don’t need to discriminate iron from jewelry.
Don’t buy this if you stay in the surf zone or hunt mostly dry sand. A multi-frequency VLF will serve you better with proper target ID. This is a specialty tool.
6. Garrett Vortex VX9 – Lightweight Multi-Frequency Choice
Garrett Metal Detectors Vortex VX9 Metal Detector
Multi-frequency + 5 single frequencies
IP68 16ft waterproof
Weighs 2.9 lbs
15hr battery life
Pros
- Multi-frequency plus 5 single frequency options
- IP68 waterproof to 16 feet
- Lightweight 2.9 lbs collapses to 24.75 inches
- High-resolution ground balance for minerals
- 15 hours battery life with USB-C charging
- Wireless headphone capability
Cons
- Not recommended for beginners
- Mixed feedback on beach mode performance
The Vortex VX9 is Garrett’s answer to Minelab’s multi-frequency offerings. It runs multiple frequencies simultaneously but also lets you lock into single frequencies from 5 to 25 kHz. That’s flexibility you don’t often see at this price.
The weight is the first thing I noticed. At 2.9 pounds, it’s tied with the X-Terra PRO for the lightest full-feature detector I tested. During a 6-hour beach session, my arm never got tired. The 24.75-inch collapsed length means it fits in a standard backpack.
Battery life is rated at 15 hours on the lithium-ion pack. I ran the VX9 for three full beach sessions without charging. The USB-C charging is a nice modern touch versus older Garrett models that used proprietary cables.
The high-resolution ground balance handles saltwater minerals well in my testing. It’s not quite as stable as Minelab’s Multi-IQ in the worst wet sand sections, but it’s close. The 25 kHz single-frequency option is great for small gold jewelry at the dry-wet sand line.
Garrett vs Minelab multi-frequency head-to-head
I ran the VX9 alongside the Equinox 700 on the same beach stretch. The Minelab was slightly more stable in heavy saltwater conditions. The Garrett pulled ahead on small gold chains when I switched to its 25 kHz single-frequency mode.
For mixed beach and inland hunting, the Garrett’s frequency flexibility is genuinely useful. For pure saltwater performance, the Minelab still has a slight edge.
Who should buy the Vortex VX9
Pick this if you’re loyal to the Garrett brand, want multi-frequency capability, and appreciate the lightweight build. It’s also a strong choice if you hunt both beaches and inland sites regularly.
If you’re new to detecting, the menu system and ground balance controls will overwhelm you. Start with a turn-on-and-go model and upgrade later.
7. SuperEye Underwater Detector – Budget Dive Option
SuperEye Underwater Metal Detector for Professional Adults, Precise Sensitivity 8.6"Coil, Small Object Filter,LED & Alarm with Headphone,IP68 Full Waterproof Submersible up to 130 ft for Scuba Diving
130ft IP68 waterproof
8.6 inch search coil
20hr battery life
5 detection modes
Pros
- IP68 waterproof to 130 feet
- Professional 8.6 inch search coil
- LED signal alerts for dark conditions
- Adjustable sensitivity and discrimination
- 20 hours battery life
- Adjustable aluminum shaft fits all users
Cons
- Heavier at 5 pounds
- Lower 3.9 rating reflects mixed feedback
The SuperEye MD6026 is the budget option for divers who want deep-water capability without paying premium prices. The 130-foot waterproof rating matches the hazlewolke and the LED alerts are genuinely useful in murky water.
The 20-hour battery life is the longest I tested. For weekend diving trips where charging isn’t an option, that extra runtime matters. The 5 detection modes give you some flexibility across different hunting scenarios.
The 8.6-inch coil is smaller than the beach-oriented 11+ inch coils on most detectors. That’s actually fine for diving because tight target separation matters more than coverage when you’re working a specific spot. In surf zone work, the smaller coil means more swings to cover the same area.
The 5-pound weight is heavier than the Garrett and Minelab units. I felt it after about 2 hours of continuous diving. Above water, the weight is manageable. Below water, buoyancy reduces the impact.
What you sacrifice at this price point
The 3.9-star rating tells the real story. About 14% of users gave it 1 star, which suggests quality control issues. Some units work great. Others have reliability problems. Return policies matter here.
Target ID is basic. You get audio tones and LED alerts, but no detailed numeric display like the Minelab or Garrett units. For divers who are digging everything anyway, that may not matter.
Who should buy the SuperEye
Buy this if you’re a casual diver who wants underwater capability at a low price and you’re willing to accept some quality variance. It’s also a reasonable backup or loaner detector.
If reliability matters more than price, spend more on the hazlewolke or jump to a VLF detector like the SAKOBS for surf-zone hunting. This isn’t a daily-driver detector for serious hunters.
8. SAKOBS Foldable Detector – Best Budget Beach Starter
SAKOBS Metal Detector for Adults, Professional Foldable Waterproof Metal Detector with 11" IP68 DD Coil, Backlit LCD Target ID, 12.8" Deep Search Gold Detector, Lightweight Beach Metal Detector
IP68 waterproof 11in DD coil
12.8in detection depth
2.7 lbs
Backlit LCD Target ID
Pros
- Lightweight 2.7 lbs with foldable design
- IP68 waterproof 11 inch DD coil
- 12.8 inch detection depth
- 9 target types and 4 search modes
- Backlit LCD display
- Complete kit with headphones shovel and backpack
- Best seller rank #27 in Metal Detectors
Cons
- Learning curve for beginners
- Basic discrimination compared to premium models
The SAKOBS foldable detector is what I recommend to anyone asking “what’s a good first beach detector?” At 4.5 stars across 404 reviews and ranked #27 in the entire Metal Detectors category, the user base has spoken.
The 11-inch DD coil is waterproof to IP68 standards, which means you can submerge the coil in the surf without issues. The control pod is splash-resistant but not designed for full submersion. For surf zone and shallow wading, this is enough.
At 2.7 pounds, it’s the lightest detector I tested. The foldable design collapses small enough to fit in the included backpack. I took it on a family beach trip where luggage space was tight, and the compact size made it possible.
The 4 search modes cover the basics: All Metal, Disc, Jewelry, and Pinpointer. The backlit LCD shows target IDs numerically, which helps you learn what signals match what targets. Detection depth is rated at 12.8 inches under ideal conditions, which is competitive with detectors costing three times more.
What you get in the kit
The package includes wired headphones, a digging shovel, and a custom carrying backpack. For a beginner, that means zero additional purchases to get started hunting. Most detectors in this price range ship as a bare unit.
The included shovel is a basic plastic scoop. It works for dry sand but struggles in hard-packed wet sand. Budget for a metal sand scoop if you plan to hunt wet sand regularly.
Who should buy the SAKOBS
This is the right pick for beginners, families, and casual beach hunters. It’s also a great gift detector for someone curious about the hobby without committing to a premium price.
If you’re already an experienced hunter, you’ll outgrow this quickly. The discrimination is basic and the waterproof rating is coil-only. Step up to a fully submersible unit like the Equinox 700 or AT Pro.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Waterproof Beach Metal Detector?
Buying a beach detector is different from buying a land detector. Saltwater and wet sand create conditions that overwhelm entry-level machines. Here’s what actually matters.
Waterproof rating matters more than depth number
A detector rated to 10 feet is fine for wading and shallow snorkeling. If you want to dive, you need 100+ feet of rating. Look at what’s actually waterproof: the coil only, or the entire control box.
The SAKOBS has an IP68 coil but the control pod isn’t fully submersible. The Minelab Equinox 700 and Garrett AT Pro are fully submersible to their rated depths. Match the rating to your hunting style, not the biggest number you can find.
Multi-frequency vs single frequency for salt water
This is the single biggest decision. Saltwater minerals create massive ground noise on single-frequency VLF detectors. You can ground balance them out, but you’ll miss targets while doing it.
Multi-frequency detectors like the Minelab Equinox 700 and X-Terra Elite run multiple frequencies at once. They handle saltwater automatically with minimal ground balancing. For serious beach hunting, multi-frequency is worth the price premium.
Ground balance controls you actually need
Automatic ground balance handles 90% of beach conditions. Manual ground balance lets you tune for extreme conditions like black sand or mineralized rocks. The AT Pro has manual ground balance, which is why serious hunters love it.
Beginners should stick with automatic ground balance. You’ll spend more time hunting and less time adjusting settings. As your skills grow, you can graduate to manual controls.
Coil size for beach hunting
Larger coils (11+ inches) cover more ground per swing. They’re great for open beaches and less-trashy areas. Smaller coils (8-9 inches) handle trashy sites better with tighter target separation.
The SAKOBS 11-inch DD and Equinox 11-inch coils are beach-friendly sizes. The SuperEye 8.6-inch coil is better for diving and tight spaces. Match your coil to your primary hunting zone.
Weight and ergonomics for long sessions
A beach hunt can easily run 4-6 hours. Every pound matters. The SAKOBS at 2.7 lbs and Equinox 700 at 2.8 lbs are easy on the arm. The SuperEye at 5 lbs gets tiring fast.
Test the balance point too. A well-balanced 3-pound detector feels lighter than a poorly balanced 2.5-pound unit. If possible, try before you buy.
Beginner beach detecting etiquette
Fill every hole you dig. Other beachgoers and detectorists will judge the hobby by the holes you leave behind. Bring a sand scoop or plastic trowel to refill quickly.
Avoid crowded swimming areas. Early morning hunts give you space and let you work productive zones without bothering sunbathers. Respect posted rules at private beaches and parks.
If you find something that looks historically significant, contact local authorities before removing it. Laws vary by location, and ethical hunting keeps the hobby welcome on public beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beach metal detector for saltwater?
For saltwater beach hunting, multi-frequency detectors like the MINELAB Equinox 700 or the MINELAB X-Terra Elite handle saltwater minerals automatically with minimal ground balancing. Single-frequency VLF detectors can work but require constant adjustment. The Equinox 700 is our top pick for saltwater performance under $700.
What metal detector is best for beach and water line use?
The Garrett AT Pro and MINELAB Equinox 700 are the best choices for water line work. The AT Pro is fully submersible to 10 feet with excellent iron discrimination. The Equinox 700 is submersible to 16 feet with Multi-IQ technology for stable saltwater performance. Both handle wet sand transitions smoothly.
Do I really need multi-frequency for the beach?
Multi-frequency is highly recommended for saltwater beaches because it handles mineral interference automatically and detects more target types simultaneously. For freshwater beaches and dry sand only, single-frequency detectors work fine and cost less. If you hunt salt water regularly, multi-frequency pays for itself in finds.
How deep can I submerge these detectors?
Submersion depth varies by model. The SAKOBS and SuperEye have IP68 coils but limited control-box waterproofing. The Garrett AT Pro is submersible to 10 feet. The MINELAB Equinox 700, X-Terra PRO, and X-Terra Elite are submersible to 16 feet. The hazlewolke and SuperEye underwater models are rated to 130 feet for scuba diving.
Which detector is best for beginners?
The SAKOBS Foldable is the best beginner beach detector. It weighs 2.7 pounds, has a backlit LCD with target ID, includes headphones and a digging shovel, and costs under $200. The X-Terra PRO is the best step-up choice once beginners learn the basics and want better saltwater performance.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing across Atlantic and Gulf coast beaches, the MINELAB Equinox 700 earned our top spot as the best waterproof metal detector for the beach in 2026. Its Multi-IQ technology handled saltwater minerals better than anything else in its price range, and the 2.8-pound carbon-fiber build kept me hunting comfortably for hours.
If you’re shopping on a tighter budget, the SAKOBS Foldable is the best waterproof metal detector for beginners under $200. For serious divers who need depth beyond 16 feet, the hazlewolke Underwater detector opens up scuba territory that VLF detectors can’t touch.
Pick the detector that matches your hunting style and budget, fill every hole you dig, and enjoy the beach.