Top Picks for Best Underwater Metal Detectors 2025

Searching for treasure underwater requires having a suitable metal detector designed for submersion. The best underwater metal detectors allow you to comfortably scan beneath the surface in lakes, rivers, beaches, and more to find valuable metals and artifacts. When selecting an underwater metal detector, key factors are waterproof construction, adjustable settings, target identification, depth range, coil size, and brand reliability.

Top underwater metal detectors feature fully watertight sealing and buoyant lightweight builds, allowing hassle-free underwater detection up to 200 feet deep. Adjustable frequency and sensitivity settings enable tuning out interference and honing in on different-size targets. LCD screens identify the type of metal detected. A detection depth of 12 inches or more lets you find deeper objects. Coils sized 11” or more provide broader scanning coverage. Reliable electronics from trusted brands reach peak accuracy.

After comparing the options, here are 11 of the best underwater metal detectors for your treasure-hunting adventures.

Here are some tips for using your underwater metal detector effectively:

1. Start in shallow water to get the hang of underwater sweeping and pinpointing.

2. Tune and ground balance the detector for the specific environment to minimize false signals.

3. Use headphones to hear subtle changes in target tones better.

4. Slowly scan in a grid pattern to cover an area thoroughly.

5. Recover targets carefully without creating clouds of sand, which reduces visibility.

6. Mark hot spots on a GPS to return and search further.

7. Take breaks to recharge batteries and bodies in extended dive sessions.

8. After each use, clean the detector and rinse the pins, coils, and shafts with fresh water.

9. Securely store the detector in a protective case between dives.

With practice, underwater metal detecting skills improve over time. Seek areas with a higher potential for lost valuables. Partner for safety. Mastering underwater detecting requires patience but pays off in rare treasures.

1. DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector

(Fully waterproof pinpointing)

• IP68 waterproof construction submergible up to 130 ft

• Pinpoint mode precisely locates targets in sediments

• Three-tone audio modes and vibration alert

• Rechargeable battery rated up to 30 hours

• Aid for diving and beach detecting of coins, relics, gold

With a fully watertight design, the DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector excels at zeroing in on finds underwater. The three-mode audio feedback and vibrating alarm are precisely dialed in small objects. The rechargeable battery lasts for extended detection. For pinpoint accuracy underwater, this is an excellent metal detector.

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2. PalliPartners Metal Detector

(Accurate underwater scans)

• Waterproof up to 3 feet for lakes, beaches, rivers

• Advanced DSP chip for highly sensitive detecting

• Discrimination of different target metals

• 10-inch DD search coil scans broad areas

• LCD screen shows depth, battery level

The PalliPartners detector features water-resistant construction for scanning up to 3 feet deep. The 10-inch coil provides comprehensive coverage to find more treasures. The advanced DSP chip delivers accurate target analysis. For broad sweeps and pinpointing underwater, it’s an excellent choice.

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3. Sailnovo Metal Detectors 

(Beginner friendly underwater hunting)

• Waterproof IP68-rated construction

• Five-mode operation tunes for any environment

• Easy-to-read backlit LCD screen

• Durable 10-inch waterproof coil

• Bag for storing and carrying

As a versatile waterproof metal detector, this option from AITSYQ is excellent for beginners. The five modes simplify detecting in any location. The bright LCD and 10-inch coil allow for easy scanning underwater up to 3 feet deep. At a budget price, it’s a quality starter underwater detector.

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4. Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector

(Legendary name brand performance)

• Submersible up to 10 feet underwater

• Iron discrimination mode for less false alerts

• High-resolution ground balancing

• Four search modes, including coin and relic

• From legendary metal detector brand

The AT Pro from Garrett is a premium metal detector trusted by professionals. Waterproof to 10 feet, it’s versatile in freshwater and saltwater. Advanced features like iron discrimination provide accurate findings. For a high-end underwater detector, Garrett delivers.

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5. BUYTES Metal Detector 

(Maximum depth and sensitivity)

• IP68 rated to scan up to 200 ft underwater

• Advanced circuitry for high-sensitivity

• Pinpoint mode to locate objects precisely

• Big 12.8-inch DD coil scans larger areas

• Rechargeable battery for extended detecting

With the ability to operate 200 feet below water, the BUYTES detector offers maximum depth. The 12.8-inch coil provides comprehensive coverage across lake and sea beds. Advanced circuitry enables high accuracy in finding modern and ancient metals. For unmatched depth and scanning area underwater, this metal detector excels.

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How deep can best underwater metal detectors go?

Quality underwater metal detectors can operate up to 200 feet below the surface. Most recreational models work down to around 10-100 feet deep. Professional grade detectors can reach depths up to 200 feet.

What is the best metal detector for saltwater?

Metal detectors made for saltwater utilize waterproof coils and housings along with advanced circuits resistant to salt corrosion for stability in the ocean. Top models for saltwater include the Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector.

Can you use a regular metal detector underwater?

No, regular metal detectors will quickly get damaged if submerged. Accurate waterproof metal detectors have watertight seals, buoyant shells, and corrosion-resistant components rated for underwater use.

What can you find with an underwater metal detector?

Underwater metal detectors find modern coins, jewelry, relics, shipwrecks, guns, gold, and silver hidden below the surface. Lakes, beaches, and ocean beds harbor a range of lost valuables.

How much does an excellent underwater metal detector cost?

Budget underwater metal detectors start around $150-$200. Mid-range models run $200-$500. High-end professional-grade underwater detectors cost $500-$2000. Expect to invest $200+ for reliable waterproof detecting.

Searching below the water's surface for buried metals and artifacts requires having the right equipment. With a quality underwater metal detector, you open up an exciting new treasure-hunting territory full of possibilities. The detectors reviewed in this article offer versatile waterproof performance to uncover history and valuables on land and sea floors up to 200 feet deep. Consider critical factors like depth rating, target identification, coil size, battery life, and brand reputation when choosing the best underwater metal detector within your budget. 

With the suitable detector, you can explore lakes, rivers, beaches, and oceans for modern valuables, ancient relics, and everything in between hidden below. Just be sure to follow local laws and take safety precautions during your underwater treasure hunts. The treasures are waiting to be discovered with the best underwater metal detector by your side.