Submerge and Detect: A Guide to the Best Underwater Metal Detectors

Are you considering buying an best underwater metal detector? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between an underwater metal detector and a waterproof metal detector, helping you understand which one suits your needs. We’ll break down their capabilities, limitations, and the technology behind them, so you can make an informed choice. You’ll also learn about the distinction between Pulse Induction (PI) and Very Low Frequency (VLF) technology, and how these systems impact performance in different environments. Finally, we’ll offer a detailed rating of the best metal detectors for both beach and underwater hunting.

Underwater Metal Detectors vs Waterproof Metal Detectors

Are underwater and beach metal detectors the same? Not quite. While they may appear similar, these detectors have key differences in functionality and design that impact their use in different environments.

First, it’s important to understand that metal detectors are typically divided into two categories: underwater metal detectors, which can be fully submerged up to 70 meters deep and used in brackish water, and waterproof metal detectors, which are designed for coastal and beach hunting but can only be submerged up to 5 meters. These waterproof detectors tend to perform less effectively in brackish water.

Waterproof Metal Detectors vs. Underwater Metal Detectors

While the terms “waterproof” and “underwater” are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct types of metal detectors designed for different conditions.

Waterproof Metal Detectors

• General Use: Waterproof metal detectors are built to withstand exposure to moisture, including wet conditions like rain or shallow water, but they aren’t meant for deep-water submersion.
• Water Resistance Ratings: These detectors are typically rated with an IP (Ingress Protection) score, such as IP67, where the first digit shows dust resistance and the second indicates water resistance.
• Typical Applications: Waterproof detectors are ideal for detecting in wet environments like beaches, grassy areas, or shallow water, but they are not suited for deep-water diving.

Underwater Metal Detectors

• Submersible Design: Underwater metal detectors are engineered to be fully submersible and can operate at much greater depths—up to 70 meters in some models—making them ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, or underwater treasure hunting.
• Waterproofing Standards: These detectors have high waterproofing standards and can handle extended periods of immersion without damage.
• Diving Capability: Designed for underwater exploration, they can be used in oceans, lakes, and rivers where full submersion is required.

Key Considerations

Depth Rating: The depth rating is critical when selecting a detector. Waterproof detectors typically have lower depth limits (up to 5 meters), while underwater models can go as deep as 70 meters. Choose based on the environment where you plan to detect.

Intended Use: If you’re primarily searching in shallow waters or on beaches, a waterproof detector should meet your needs. For diving or deep-water exploration, an underwater detector is the better choice.

Durability: Underwater detectors tend to be more durable, constructed to endure the pressure and environmental conditions found in deeper waters, while waterproof detectors are generally lighter and suited for casual use.

Choosing the Right Metal Detector

Your choice should depend on where you plan to hunt for treasure. Most valuable items, like gold and silver jewelry, are often found near the shore in shallow waters. If your focus is on beach and shallow water hunting, a waterproof detector will suffice, allowing you to wade into waist-deep water.

However, if you’re serious about underwater treasure hunting and want to explore deeper waters, you’ll need a professional underwater metal detector. These detectors, often equipped with Pulse Induction (PI) technology, excel in saltwater environments, handling brackish water effectively and filtering out noise from mineralized soils. While PI detectors are great for sandy beaches and saltwater, they tend to be less sensitive to smaller objects compared to Very Low Frequency (VLF) detectors, which are better for detecting small items in less mineralized environments but may struggle in saltwater.

Best waterproof metal detectors

Minelab Equinox

Minelab Equinox is a multi-purpose metal detector meant for various types of treasure hunting. The device is equipped with three manufacturer’s programs for beach hunting as well as for working in fields and parks. It is aimed for treasure hunting both on the ground and under water (waterproof up to 3 meters deep).

Equinox 800 has more operation frequencies, it can work at 5\10\15\20\40 kHz frequencies and Multi-IQ (using several frequencies at the same time). Beach mode is used for underwater treasure hunting. It has two sub-modes – wet/dry sand and under water/shallow water.

Last update on 2024-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Model	Minelab Equinox 800
Application	Coin, Relic, Jewellery & Beach
Technologies	Multi-IQ, Wi-Stream, Bluetooth
Weight	1.34 kg (2.96 lbs)
Length (Adjustable)	1440 mm (56.7″)
Batteries	In-built Lithium-ion
Headphones	Included, bluetooth and aptX™
Audio Output	In-built loudspeaker, 3.5 mm (1/8″) headphones
Warranty	3 years
Operating Principle	VLF
Standard Searchcoil	11-inch Double-D
Operating Frequencies (kHz)	Multi, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40
Water resistance	Waterproof
Submersion Depth	up to 3m/10-feet
Visual Display	Monochrome LCD with backlight
Noise Cancel	Yes
USB Connectivity	Yes (Windows and OSX)
Ground Balance	Auto, Manual
Search Modes	Park, Beach, Field, Gold
Discrimination	50 segment (Ferrous: -9 – 0, Non-ferrous: 1 – 40)
Custom Search Profiles	8 (2 per Detect Mode)
Noise Cancel	Auto, Manual (-9 to 9)
Audio Threshold	Yes
Sensitivity	1-25
Target Volume	0–25
Threshold Level	0–25
Threshold Pitch	0–25
Target Tones	1, 2, 5, 50
Electronic Pinpointing	Yes
VDI (0 to 99 scale)	Yes
LCD Backlight	Yes

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Nokta The Legend

The Nokta The Legend stands out as one of the best waterproof metal detectors due to its advanced technology, robust construction, and versatility across different terrains. Designed to operate in depths of up to 3 meters (10 feet), it’s perfect for both beach and underwater hunting, offering full submersion without compromising performance.

One of the key technical features is its Multi-Frequency Technology, allowing users to switch between multiple frequencies to optimize detection in various environments. Whether you’re searching in saltwater, freshwater, or on mineralized ground, this detector maintains sensitivity and accuracy. Its IP68 rating ensures complete protection from dust and water, making it highly durable even in tough conditions.

The Nokta The Legend also excels with its advanced discrimination capabilities, helping users distinguish between different types of metals and reduce false signals. With its rechargeable battery, intuitive user interface, and wireless headphones, this detector combines modern convenience with professional-level features, making it the go-to choice for hobbyists and serious treasure hunters alike.

Model	Nokta Makro The Legend
Operating Frequencies	Multi(3), 4kHz, 10kHz, 15kHz, 20kHz, 40kHz
Audio Frequencies	100Hz – 1200Hz Adjustable
Search Modes	4 (Park / Field / Beach / Gold Field)
Custom User Profiles	4
Audio Tones	60
Tone Volume	Yes
Tone Break	Yes
Tone Frequency	Yes
Adjustable Threshold	Yes
Notch Filter	Yes
Ground Balance	Automatic / Manual / Tracking
Pinpoint	Yes
Frequency Shift	Yes
Noise Cancellation	Yes
Vibration	Yes
Sensitivity Setting	30 Levels
Target ID	01-60
Search Coil	The Legend WHP: Waterproof DD Search Coil 28cm / 11″ (LG28) The Legend PRO PACK: Waterproof DD Search Coil 28cm / 11″ (LG28) Waterproof DD Search Coil 15cm / 6″ (LG15)
Display	Custom LCD
Backlight	Yes
LED Flashlight	Yes
Weight	1.4 kg (3.0lbs.) Including The Search Coil
Length	63cm – 132cm (25″ – 52″) Adjustable
Battery	5050mAh Lithium Polymer
Warranty	3 Years

Last update on 2024-11-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

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Best underwater metal detectors

Nokta PulseDive

Nokta PulseDive review

The Nokta PulseDive is a versatile device from Nokta Makro, designed for treasure hunters who need both an underwater metal detector and a ground-search pinpointer in one tool. This multi-purpose device offers the convenience of transforming between two essential functions with ease.

What makes this possible is its unique design. The PulseDive comes with a special mono search coil that can be attached when you’re diving, allowing it to perform as an efficient underwater metal detector. For ground search, it functions as a pinpointer, ensuring you have a precise tool for all treasure-hunting environments.

One of the standout features of the Nokta PulseDive is its use of Pulse Induction (PI) technology, which operates at a much higher frequency than standard detectors, making it resistant to interference from brackish water and mineralized soils. This technology ensures stable performance whether you’re hunting on the beach or diving in challenging underwater conditions, delivering accurate and reliable detection.

Last update on 2024-11-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Model	Nokta PulseDive
Operating Principle	Pulse Induction
Operating Frequency	3kHz
Waterproof	Up to 60 m (200 ft.)
Detection Modes	Audio / Vibration / Audio + Vibration / LED
Sensitivity	5 levels adjustable
Length	28 cm (11”)
Weight	286 gr (10oz) including the hard-shell case
Battery	1650mAh Lithium Polymer
Charging Time	≈2 hours
Warranty	2 years

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Minelab Excalibur II

The Minelab Excalibur II is a top-tier submersible metal detector designed specifically for underwater treasure hunting. With a proven track record of helping enthusiasts discover countless treasures, the Excalibur II is widely regarded as one of the best underwater metal detectors available, making it an ideal choice for serious treasure hunters.

This device allows you to dive up to 60 meters (200 feet) deep, making it suitable for both shallow and deep-water expeditions. Its highly efficient discrimination system enables you to easily differentiate between ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ensuring that you focus on valuable finds.

What sets the Excalibur II apart is its Broad Band Spectrum (BBS) technology, which operates on 17 frequencies simultaneously, ranging from 1.5 kHz to 25.5 kHz. This wide range of frequencies enhances detection accuracy, allowing the detector to locate targets in highly mineralized environments or in saltwater conditions. Additionally, the built-in pinpoint mode makes it easier to zero in on your target once detected.

The Excalibur II comes equipped with Koss waterproof headphones and other essential accessories, ensuring you’re fully prepared for underwater exploration. These headphones are specifically designed to withstand high-pressure environments, allowing you to maintain clear sound quality even at depths of up to 60 meters.

Its Reactor Coil Boost (RCB) technology amplifies weak signals from small or deeply buried objects while simultaneously suppressing interference and background noise. This not only improves detection of valuable targets but also minimizes distractions from false signals in highly mineralized or brackish water conditions, giving you better accuracy and efficiency.

The metal detector’s bright, fluorescent housing ensures that it remains visible, even in murky waters. Its ergonomically designed S-shaped shaft offers better comfort and control for underwater use compared to straight shafts, making longer treasure-hunting sessions less tiring.

Powered by either eight AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack, the Excalibur II boasts a large capacity—up to 1000mAh—providing extended operation during dives. Despite its 2.5 kg weight, this underwater metal detector feels lighter underwater, allowing you to hunt comfortably for longer periods.

Additionally, Minelab’s BBS technology is highly regarded for its superior performance in saltwater, an environment where many underwater metal detectors struggle due to mineral interference. This makes the Excalibur II an exceptional choice for coastal and underwater treasure hunting.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Model	Minelab Excalibur II
Application	Coin, Relic, Jewellery, Beach & Dive (waterproof 200ft)
Technology	BBS
Weight	8″ Coil 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs) or 10″ coil 2.3 kg (5.1 lbs) (inc NiMH battery)
Length (Adjustable)	Standard shaft 1140 mm – 1220 mm (45″ – 48″); Dive shaft 820 mm – 910 mm (32″ – 36″)
Batteries	NiMH battery pack 13V 1000 mAh
Headphones	Included, Koss 8, hardwired
Warranty	1 year
Operating Principle	VLF
Standard Searchcoil	10″ Double-D hardwired
Operating Frequencies (kHz)	Multiple frequencies: 1.5, 3, 4.5,…25.5kHz)
Water resistance	Underwater metal detector
Submersion Depth	waterproof 200ft
Discrimination	Variable Discrimination (adjustable turn control) & All Metal
Ground Balance	Automatic ground rejection
Detect Modes	Discriminate or All-Metal (Pinpoint)
Target Volume Adjust	Adjustable turn control
Audio Threshold	Adjustable
Electronic Pinpointing	Yes
VDI (0 to 99 scale)	No
Build-in flashlight	No

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Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II

Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II review

The Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II is a high-performance underwater metal detector designed for professional divers and treasure hunters. Manufactured by the renowned American company Garrett, this device can be submerged to depths of 65 meters (213 feet), making it an excellent tool for deep-water treasure hunting. Included with the device are waterproof headphones and straps for securing the detector to a diving suit, ensuring comfort and ease of use during underwater expeditions.

The Sea Hunter Mark II features user-friendly yet versatile controls, allowing for adjustments to discrimination, threshold tone, and sensitivity. These settings provide flexibility in different underwater environments, whether you’re targeting small jewelry or large metallic objects.

Ergonomically designed, the underwater metal detector’s control unit can be attached to the upper, middle, or bottom sections of its shaft, allowing users to configure the device according to their preferences and search conditions. Additionally, the option to remove the middle shaft makes it easier to maneuver in tight or difficult underwater areas, offering enhanced comfort when hunting in challenging conditions.

One of the standout features of the Sea Hunter Mark II is its use of Pulse Induction (PI) technology, which is well-suited for underwater environments. This technology allows the detector to ignore the effects of saltwater and mineralized soils, providing immediate target response without the usual interference. This makes the Sea Hunter Mark II particularly effective in areas like beaches, brackish water, and heavily mineralized terrains.

The Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II is a reliable tool for serious underwater treasure hunters, offering durability, ease of use, and the precision needed for successful treasure hunting in deep water.

Last update on 2024-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

Model	Garrett Sea Hunter Mark II
Weight	5.1 lbs (2.3 kgs) stem-mounted
Control Housing	31 oz (88 kgs)
Length (Adjustable)	28″ to 52″ (1.71 m – 1.32 m)
Batteries	8 AA (included)
Headphones	Submersible headphones included
Warranty	1 year
Circuit Type	Pulse Induction
Standard Searchcoil	8″ PROformance™ mono
Operating Frequencies (kHz)	750 pulses per second, adjustable
Water resistance	Underwater detector
Submersion Depth	200 feet (65m)
Discrimination	Full Range (PI)
Ground Balance	Preset
Search Modes	3
Audio Tones	1
Audio Threshold	No
Detector Buoyancy	Near neutral
Updatable Software	No
Electronic Pinpointing	No
VDI (0 to 99 scale)	No
Build-in flashlight	No