Finding the Best Cheap Metal Detector on a Budget

Metal detecting is an exciting hobby, but high-end detectors cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. We tested budget-friendly options to find the best cheap metal detectors that provide significant detection, valuable features, and excellent value without a huge investment. Our picks include versatile full-size detectors perfect for beginners and pinpointers for more accurate digging.

1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is a versatile and inexpensive metal detector perfect for beginners. It features a lightweight design and an 8-inch waterproof coil suitable for hunting in shallow water. Detection depth reaches up to 8 inches for coins and 4 feet for larger objects. The discrimination mode allows you to reduce trash signals and target valuable finds like coins, jewelry, and relics. While it lacks some of the advanced features of pricier detectors, the TK4 Tracker IV delivers excellent detection capabilities for low cost, making it one of the best cheap metal detectors.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to use

• 8-inch waterproof coil

• Discrimination mode to reduce trash signals

• Excellent value for money

Cons:

• Lacks some advanced features

• Medium detection depth compared to pricier models

The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector is arguably the best entry-level model under $100. The ease of use, good scanning depth, discrimination, and waterproofing make it our top pick for beginners on a budget.

View on Amazon

2. Kyltoor Metal Detector

This Kyltoor metal detector has features you wouldn't expect in an inexpensive model. The five detection modes are optimized for different environments and targets. You can find coins, relics, gold, silver, and other metals easily, even in challenging soil, thanks to the high-power 10-inch waterproof coil. The LCD clearly shows your results, and the rechargeable battery lasts ages on one charge. For budget-focused treasure hunters, the Kyltoor metal detector should be on your shortlist.

Pros:

• Five detection modes for optimal scanning

• High-power 10-inch waterproof coil

• Rechargeable battery with long life

• Clear LCD

Cons:

• It can be complicated for beginners

For intermediate detectorists or those willing to learn, the Kyltoor is among the best low-cost metal detectors available today. The advanced features make it possible to find coins, relics, and other treasures that entry-level models might need to look into.

View on Amazon

3. Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer

Pinpointing your finds precisely is a must for metal detecting. Instead of buying an expensive pinpointer, consider the Dmyond. This affordable pinpointer packs impressive accuracy into a compact, waterproof wand design. The 360° detection scanner features vibration, audio, and LED alerts to locate your target precisely. At just $23, having your pinpointer improves your metal detecting dramatically. No more wasting time digging up trash!

Pros:

• Compact and waterproof wand design

• Scanning alerts pinpoint targets

• Dramatically speeds up metal-detecting

Cons:

• Small scanning area

View on Amazon

4. DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector

With high scanning accuracy, the DR.ÖTEK is a top-rated low-cost pinpointer.

Another superb value pinpointer option, the DR.ÖTEK pinpointer, perfectly complements any metal detector. Like the Dmyond, it's IP68 waterproof, so that you can use it on land or in shallow water. The intuitive LCD screen shows scanning mode, sensitivity, and battery levels. With high scanning accuracy and multiple alert modes, the DR.ÖTEK pinpointer is worth adding to your metal-detecting toolkit.

Pros:

• Fully waterproof to IP68 rating

• Intuitive LCD screen

• Multiple alert modes

Cons:

• Battery life could be longer

View on Amazon

5. TECLUNG Metal Detector 

The TECLUNG balances performance and affordability, making it the best low-cost metal detector.

For a full-featured metal detector under $100, the TECLUNG is my top pick. It balances easy use for beginners with advanced modes and waterproofing that experienced detectorists appreciate. The 8-inch waterproof coil offers excellent scanning depth and sensitivity. Discrimination and dual coil modes allow you to hone in on metals like relics, coins, or jewelry. If you want real metal-detecting power on a budget, choose the TECLUNG.

Pros:

• Easy to use for beginners

• 8-inch waterproof coil

• Discrimination and dual coil modes

• Excellent depth and sensitivity

Cons:

• Design lacks refinement

View on Amazon

You don't need to spend a fortune to start finding a hidden treasure with a high-performing metal detector. Models from trusted brands like Bounty Hunter, Kyltoor, Dmyond, and TECLUNG deliver impressive features and detection without breaking the bank. For its versatility and quality at a bargain price point, I rate the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector as the best cheap metal detector. Pair it with an affordable pinpointer like the Dmyond or DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector for even better finds. With the suitable budget-friendly metal detector, you can start uncovering history and valuable treasures today.

What is the best cheap metal detector for beginners?

The Bounty Hunter TK4 is an excellent choice as the best budget metal detector for beginners, thanks to its lightweight design, easy controls, and waterproof coil.

Do inexpensive metal detectors work well?

Yes, when you choose wisely. Specific detectors under $200, like the TECLUNG, provide impressive scanning depth, sensitivity, and discrimination to find treasures.

What is the best low-cost metal detector pinpointer?

The Dmyond pinpointer is our top pick. For under $50, it provides excellent target accuracy and detection to speed up your finds.

What should I look for in a cheap metal detector?

Ease of use, detection depth, discrimination features, and waterproofing are critical. An S-shaft design is also comfortable for extended hunts.

Can kids use metal detectors?

Yes, many detectors work great for families. The TECLUNG has a beginner mode perfect for kids learning the hobby alongside adults.

While high-end detectors have advantages, cheap metal detectors can still perform remarkably well for the price. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector is my top pick for its versatility, making it the best bet for beginners on a budget. The Dmyond pinpointer is my top affordable choice for pinpointing accuracy without the high cost. You can uncover hidden treasure without overspending on a suitable, inexpensive metal detector.