mybest
Thermometers & meteorological instrumentsHelping You Find the Best
mybest
Thermometers & meteorological instrumentsHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More 1
  • 10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More 2
  • 10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More 3
  • 10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More 4
  • 10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More 5

10 Best Metal Detectors UK 2024 | DR.ÖTEK, Hazlewolke and More

If you're on the hunt for an exciting new hobby, a metal detector could be just what you need. From combing the beaches for hidden treasure, to tracking down pieces of gold, the search can be an exciting way to spend the day alone or with the whole family. 

This article details everything you'll need to know before buying a metal detector, discussing the ideal detection depth and coil size, as well as pinpointer features and various detection modes. Plus, we've included our ranking of the 10 best metal detectors in the UK currently available on Amazon.

Last updated 26/03/2024

Quick List - Top Metal Detectors

1

DR.ÖTEK

Lightweight Metal Detector Kit
Lightweight Metal Detector Kit

A Detection Depth of up to 8” With Adjustable Sensitivity to Locate Objects More Accurately

2

OMMO

Metal Detector
Metal Detector

A Lightweight Body and Adjustable Handle for Comfortable Use by Both Children and Adults

3

Ginour

Lightweight Metal Detector
Lightweight Metal Detector

Detect Objects Deeper Underground With a Wide-Scale 10” Coil

4

SUFFLA

Gold Metal Detector Waterproof
Gold Metal Detector Waterproof

5 Different Detection Modes to Help You Hunt for Specific Objects or Metals

5

DR.ÖTEK

Junior Metal Detector
Junior Metal Detector

A High-Quality Children’s Detector With Pinpoint Accuracy and a Versatile 8.3” Coil

mybest Editing Team
Guide
mybest UK
mybest Editing Team

A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.

mybest Editing Team's Profile
…Continue reading

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Metal Detector in the UK

  1. Choose a Detection Depth Between 1 to 12"
  2. Consider the Coil Size for Accuracy and Coverage
  3. Achieve Higher Accuracy With a Pinpointer Function
  4. Search for Specific Objects With Different Detection Modes
  5. Look for a Lightweight Detector Under 2.5 kg With an Adjustable Handle 
1

Key Points to Consider

2

1. Choose a Detection Depth of 2 - 7” for Casual Use, or up to 12” for More Dedicated Hobbyists

1. Choose a Detection Depth of 2 - 7” for Casual Use, or up to 12” for More Dedicated Hobbyists

If you've spent any time looking for a metal detector online, the first thing you'll notice is that they all advertise their detection depth. This is because it's one of the most important factors in your purchase. Entry-level detectors often have a smaller depth of around 2 - 7", which is great for casual hobbyists, but you could be missing out on a lot of interesting finds that are just out of your reach. 


The more high-tech detectors tend to fall between the 8 - 12" range, and with almost twice the detection depth, you'll double your chances of discovery. These are often favoured by those more dedicated to the hobby, since they usually also come with a higher price.


Keep your eyes peeled day and night with a head torch

3

2. Consider the Coil Size: 6” Coils Have Better Accuracy, 12” Provides Wider Coverage

2. Consider the Coil Size: 6” Coils Have Better Accuracy, 12” Provides Wider Coverage

The coil size will determine the method by which your detector scans the ground. They usually range between 6 - 12", with different sizes intended for different tasks. To choose the right one, you'll need to consider what kind of searching you want to do. 


Smaller coils are best for accurately tracking down small objects. However, if you want to search deeper underground with a much wider coverage, a larger coil is usually your best bet. If you're not sure what you're looking for yet, 8 - 10" coils are a great middle-ground

4

3. Look for a Detector With an Inbuilt Pinpointer Function for Improved Accuracy

3. Look for a Detector With an Inbuilt Pinpointer Function for Improved Accuracy

A pinpointer is a device which detects objects with improved accuracy. They're precise enough for searching small areas, saving hours of digging time by ensuring you're looking in the right place. 


Unfortunately, not every detector comes with a pinpointer built in. Although, you can buy them separately. It can sometimes even work out cheaper to buy the two separately. That said, having an integrated pinpointer cuts down on excess weight and ensure you can carry your kit comfortably.


Use a spade to cut down on digging time.

5

4. Opt For a Detector With Multiple Modes to Search for Specific Objects or Metals

4. Opt For a Detector With Multiple Modes to Search for Specific Objects or Metals

Many detectors have various detection modes which allow you to search for specific metals, or even specific shapes underground. All-purpose detectors have just one detection mode. These tend to be favoured by beginners as they're less complicated to use, and you won't need to know what you're looking for ahead of time. 


Detectors with multiple modes will often have an all-purpose setting as the default, with additional modes that can be useful if you like to go on the hunt for something specific. Functions will vary from brand to brand, but many offer modes uncovering jewellery, coins, gold and more.


Polish up your finds with a jewellery cleaner

6

5. Pick a Lightweight Detector Under 2.5 kg With an Adjustable Handle if Children Will Be Using the Device

5. Pick a Lightweight Detector Under 2.5 kg With an Adjustable Handle if Children Will Be Using the Device

One last thing to consider is the size and weight of your detector. The weight may not seem too important at first, but after you've been carrying it around for hours, you might begin to wish you'd opted for a smaller model. Anything under 2.5 kg is considered lightweight, so make sure to opt for a lighter model for longer sessions or if it will be used by a child.  


Children will also need a smaller handle in order to use the detector effectively. Luckily a lot of detectors come with adjustable handles, so they can be used comfortably by people of all sizes. If children are going to be using the device, we recommend looking for one with a handle under 100 cm and sizing down appropriately depending on your child's height. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Metal Detectors in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

DR.ÖTEK

Lightweight Metal Detector Kit

DR.ÖTEK Lightweight Metal Detector Kit 1

A Detection Depth of up to 8” With Adjustable Sensitivity to Locate Objects More Accurately

2

OMMO

Metal Detector

OMMO Metal Detector 1

A Lightweight Body and Adjustable Handle for Comfortable Use by Both Children and Adults

3

Ginour

Lightweight Metal Detector

Ginour  Lightweight Metal Detector 1

Detect Objects Deeper Underground With a Wide-Scale 10” Coil

4

SUFFLA

Gold Metal Detector Waterproof

SUFFLA Gold Metal Detector Waterproof 1

5 Different Detection Modes to Help You Hunt for Specific Objects or Metals

5

DR.ÖTEK

Junior Metal Detector

DR.ÖTEK Junior Metal Detector 1

A High-Quality Children’s Detector With Pinpoint Accuracy and a Versatile 8.3” Coil

6

QWQW

Metal Detector

QWQW Metal Detector 1

A Bargain Price Machine With up to 8” Detection Depth

7

HOOMYA

Metal Detector for Beginners

HOOMYA Metal Detector for Beginners 1

Submerge This Coil in up to 20” of Water With No Risk of Damage

8

Hazlewolke

Professional Metal Detector

Hazlewolke  Professional Metal Detector 1

Search Far and Wide With a Large 11" Coil

9

Hazlewolke

Professional Metal Detector Kit

Hazlewolke Professional Metal Detector Kit 1

Multi-Tonal Detection to Help You Evaluate a Metal’s Value Before Digging

10

TingJunLie

Metal detector for Adults

 TingJunLie Metal detector for Adults 1

Focus On Specific Areas With a Small 7” Coil

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

DR.ÖTEK
Lightweight Metal Detector Kit

Lightweight Metal Detector Kit 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£143.99
Mid
Reference price
£143.99
Mid

A Detection Depth of up to 8” With Adjustable Sensitivity to Locate Objects More Accurately

This detector kit is a bestseller, and for good reason! It includes 5 different detection modes and a pinpointer, so you can locate objects with more accuracy. A great choice for versatility, the 9.8" coil offers the perfect middle ground to cover both large surface areas and small-scale precision searches.

The detection depth ranges up to 8" and you can adjust it at 2" intervals to get a more accurate depiction of how deep underground an object is. This drastically cuts down on digging time, with an included shovel to make your search even easier. 

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

OMMO
Metal Detector

Metal Detector 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£97.99
Mid
Reference price
£97.99
Mid

A Lightweight Body and Adjustable Handle for Comfortable Use by Both Children and Adults

With the 3 detection modes, you'll be able to search for objects up to 8" deep. Plus, the pinpointer and adjustable depth sensitivity will keep your search accurate and efficient. 

The 72 - 104 cm adjustable handle makes it perfect for sharing with kids, allowing the armrest to sit comfortably on users of various heights. And, weighing in at just 1.2 kg, they'll be able to carry it on their own, too!

No.3

Ginour
Lightweight Metal Detector

Lightweight Metal Detector 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£89.99
Mid
Reference price
£89.99
Mid

Detect Objects Deeper Underground With a Wide-Scale 10” Coil

The 10" coil on this detector means it can cover large surface areas and detect objects deeper underground. With a detection depth of up to 11.8", you'll get the chance to uncover much more than you would with other machines. 

The 3 detection modes will help make your search more accurate, and you can use the pinpointer to lock onto a specific target if you think you might have found something special. The kit includes a folding shovel, headset and carry case so you'll have everything you need to get started right away.

No.4

SUFFLA
Gold Metal Detector Waterproof

Gold Metal Detector Waterproof 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£159.99
High Mid
Reference price
£159.99
High Mid

5 Different Detection Modes to Help You Hunt for Specific Objects or Metals

This metal detector lets you choose between 5 different detection modes, with a pinpointer to lock onto your target. Even the default all-metal mode will detect any metal objects up to 10" underground!

Switch to "disc & notch" mode to specify which types of objects you want to find, such as rings or coins. Alternatively, you can use "memory" mode to seek out a specific metal, with a DSP chip to improve detection efficiency for gold.

No.5

DR.ÖTEK
Junior Metal Detector

Junior Metal Detector 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£58.63
Low Mid
Reference price
£58.63
Low Mid

A High-Quality Children’s Detector With Pinpoint Accuracy and a Versatile 8.3” Coil

DR.ÖTEK's junior metal detector weighs just 1.33 kg with a 71 - 94 cm adjustable handle that makes it suitable for children of various ages and heights. It's well made and much less expensive than more professional models, so you won't have to worry so much about general wear and tear either.

We like that it includes a shovel and a carry bag to help with digging once they've tracked down their treasure. Plus, the 8.3" coil is the perfect all-purpose size, so they won't be limited to one type of searching. 

No.6

QWQW
Metal Detector

Metal Detector 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£32.99
Low
Reference price
£32.99
Low

A Bargain Price Machine With up to 8” Detection Depth

This is the cheapest detector on our list, and at such a low price, the 8" detection depth is particularly impressive. It's super lightweight at just 1.46 kg, and it can be comfortably used at various heights thanks to the adjustable handle. 

Unfortunately, there is no pinpointer, so it will only give a general suggestion of where an object is. However, you can purchase a pinpointer separately and it would still work out much cheaper than an alternative model. 

No.7

HOOMYA
Metal Detector for Beginners

Metal Detector for Beginners 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£152.99
High Mid
Reference price
£152.99
High Mid

Submerge This Coil in up to 20” of Water With No Risk of Damage

This 10" coil will detect all manner of objects up to 9.06" deep. The coil and adjustable handle are completely waterproof so you can even search the shoreline with no risk of damage. 

At 2.71 kg, it's one of the heaviest models on our list. It may not sound like much, but if you plan to use your detector for hours on end, you'd be better off opting for a lighter machine so that you can remain comfortable. 

No.8

Hazlewolke
Professional Metal Detector

Professional Metal Detector 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£210.99
High Mid
Reference price
£210.99
High Mid

Search Far and Wide With a Large 11" Coil

Searching ground up to 10" deep is made easy thanks to the 11" coil on this machine! In particular, having the larger coil is ideal for searching wide surface areas, ensuring you don't miss a single spot. 

Be aware that this model only has 1 detection mode, so it won't be suitable if you're hoping to hunt for specific objects. However, if you're hoping for an all-purpose detector to cover a lot of ground, this is one of the best options on the market. 

No.9

Hazlewolke
Professional Metal Detector Kit

Professional Metal Detector Kit 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£205.99
High Mid
Reference price
£205.99
High Mid

Multi-Tonal Detection to Help You Evaluate a Metal’s Value Before Digging

This 3-mode detector includes 3 distinct alert tones of low, medium and high frequency to help you quickly determine the value of the metal before you start digging. This can save a lot of time uncovering objects that end up being worthless. 

Unfortunately, it only detects objects up to 7.87" deep, so you might miss out on some interesting finds. If you're new to the hobby, however, the inbuilt value detector can be a great way to keep you focussed on the best discoveries

No.10

TingJunLie
Metal detector for Adults

Metal detector for Adults 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.50
Low Mid
Reference price
£39.50
Low Mid

Focus On Specific Areas With a Small 7” Coil

If you want to keep things simple for your first buy, this bargain metal detector features a 7" coil that allows you to search specific areas without getting distracted by distant objects. Better yet, the lightweight design won't become a burden, even after hours of hunting. 

The only downside is that the handle is fixed at 110 cm. So, if you're sharing this with multiple people, or you think this size won't be comfortable for you, you may be better off with an adjustable model. Despite this slight drawback, it's still an impressive all-rounder. 

Written and researched by Alicia Byrne

Top 5 Metal Detectors

No. 1: DR.ÖTEKLightweight Metal Detector Kit

No. 2: OMMOMetal Detector

No. 3: Ginour Lightweight Metal Detector

No. 4: SUFFLAGold Metal Detector Waterproof

No. 5: DR.ÖTEKJunior Metal Detector

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

Most Viewed
Featured Rankings Similar to Thermometers & meteorological instruments

Garden Swing Seats

10 Best

Search by category

mybest

We connect users with the best tried and true products,
tested by our in-house guides and backed by expert insight.

Copyright mybest All Rights Reserved.