9 Best Metal Detectors for Kids (November 2026)
The best metal detectors for children include the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector for shared family hunts, the Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector for Kids for a lightweight first detector, and the Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for simple setup and learning.
On this page (4 sections)
The best metal detector for kids should fit the child’s height, stay light enough for a comfortable search, and keep the controls clear. The Bounty Hunter Junior is a strong all-around starting point, while the National Geographic Starter Kit suits children who want simple operation and included learning materials.
A child-sized detector can make a walk in a park or backyard feel like a search with a purpose. The best match depends on age, arm length, attention span and whether an adult plans to use the detector too.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for shared family huntsBounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for a lightweight first detectorBounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector for Kids
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for simple setup and learningBlue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Best for a playful screenCheck it - 5
Check itSUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation
Best for one-button operation - 6
Check itRM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Kids
Best for adjustable family use - 7
Check itGoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Best for growing with an adult - 8
Check itBlue Marble National Geographic Metal Detector for Kids
Best for pinpointing targets - 9
Check itDetectTrek MD-4070 Metal Detector for Kids
Best for a backlit display
Which metal detector for kids is easiest to start with?
The Bounty Hunter Junior is a good starting point for children who want a detector designed for them, while the National Geographic Starter Kit keeps setup simple. For more first-hunt options, see metal detectors for beginners.
Both weigh close to 1 lb and include features that help a beginner notice a target.
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector: Best for shared family hunts
- Three detection modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Waterproof 8 in search coil
- 1270 g
This model works for adults and kids, with three modes and an 8 in waterproof search coil. Its 1270 g weight makes it a heavier choice for a child to carry alone.
Pros
- Three detection modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Waterproof search coil
Cons
- Heavier than the child-focused picks
- Analog controls may take more adult guidance
The TK4 Tracker IV is the most capable shared-family pick here, with all-metal, tone and discrimination modes plus adjustable sensitivity. Families planning a shoreline outing can compare beach metal detectors for those conditions.
Its 8 in waterproof coil can suit searches around damp ground or shallow water, but the detector weighs 1270 g, so a younger child may find it tiring to carry for long.
The analog controls give an adult room to tune the search, though some children may need help choosing a mode. Consider it when the child will share the detector with an adult and wants more control than a one-button starter model offers.
Choose it for family use where adults will also operate the detector. If the child needs a lighter, simpler option, the Bounty Hunter Junior is a better fit.
Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector for Kids: Best for a lightweight first detector
- Designed for ages 6+
- 1.3 lb
- Adjustable length
- Discrimination control
A child-focused design, adjustable length and target meter make this a practical starter choice. Its discrimination control gives children a way to reduce signals from unwanted metals.
Pros
- Designed for children ages 6+
- Adjustable length
- Target strength meter
Cons
- One program
- No pinpoint function
The Bounty Hunter Junior is built for children ages 6 and up. It weighs 1.3 lb, has an adjustable length and uses a target strength meter and speaker to help a young user follow a signal.
Its discrimination control can reduce signals from unwanted metals such as nails or iron. The 6.5 in coil and single program keep the setup straightforward, while the adjustable fit helps the detector stay comfortable as a child grows.
Choose it for a child’s first detector when low weight and clear audio feedback matter more than a screen full of settings. For more detail, read our Bounty Hunter Junior metal detector reviews.
Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit: Best for simple setup and learning
- 1.2 lb
- Adjustable arm
- Audio and LED alerts
- Trowel and learning guide included
Simple operation and a light body suit children who want to start searching quickly. The included trowel and learning guide make it a ready-to-use kit.
Pros
- Simple operation
- Trowel and guide included
- Adjustable arm
Cons
- Coil waterproofing is limited to 4 in
- No discrimination mode listed
The National Geographic Starter Kit pairs simple operation with a 1.2 lb body, adjustable arm and comfort grip. Audio and LED alerts signal when metal is detected, so children can focus on keeping the coil close to the ground and moving it steadily.
A trowel and full-color learning guide come with the kit. The coil is waterproof up to 4 in, which can help with wet sand or shallow water searches, but the control unit should not be treated as submersible.
Choose it for an easy introduction that includes a tool for digging and a guide to the hobby. The best National Geographic metal detectors for kids compares this starter model with another option from the same brand.
OMMO Kids Metal Detector: Best for a playful screen
- 1.2 lb
- Adjustable from 27.5 to 37.8 in
- Animated puppy display
- Shovel and rake included
The animated puppy display gives children a playful visual cue, while the adjustable stem fits a range of heights. The coil folds for carrying and storage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Wide stem adjustment
- Shovel and rake included
Cons
- Does not distinguish metal types
- Reset may be needed in open space
OMMO gives kids a screen with an animated puppy and bones, plus an adjustable stem from 27.5 to 37.8 in. The detector weighs 1.2 lb, and its foldable coil makes it easier to carry between the yard, park and storage.
The controls do not distinguish between metal types, so children will hear signals for different kinds of metal. It comes with a 9V battery, plastic shovel and rake, and the maker recommends it for ages 3–12.
Choose it for a playful display and adjustable fit when simple detection is enough. If you want a brand comparison, our best metal detectors for kids ages 8–12 covers options for older children.
SUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation: Best for one-button operation
- 1.2 lb
- One-button operation
- Animated display
- Shovel, rake and bag included
One-button operation keeps the first search straightforward, and the animated display adds an engaging cue. The adjustable stem and light weight suit younger treasure hunters.
Pros
- Simple controls
- Lightweight
- Shovel, rake and bag included
Cons
- Control box must stay dry
- Shorter adjustment range than some models
The SUNPOW MD20 keeps operation simple with a one-button setup and animated display. It weighs 1.2 lb, adjusts from 23.6 to 27.6 in, and comes with a shovel, rake and drawstring bag.
Its sealed search coil can handle splashes, wet sand and muddy gardens, but the control box needs to stay dry. The short stem range makes it worth checking the child’s height before choosing it, especially if you expect the detector to fit for several years.
Choose it for a lightweight kit with simple controls and a shorter child-sized adjustment range. For a younger child, compare our best metal detector for a 5-year-old.
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Kids: Best for adjustable family use
- 2 lb
- Adjustable from 24 to 35 in
- LCD and buzzer
- Bag, shovel and rake included
Its broad stem range can suit children of different heights, and the LCD plus buzzer give both visual and audio signals. At 2 lb, it is heavier than several child-focused options.
Pros
- Wide adjustable range
- LCD and buzzer alerts
- Carry bag and digging tools included
Cons
- Heavier than the lightest picks
- No discrimination control listed
The RM RICOMAX has an adjustable stem from 24 to 35 in and gives alerts through an LCD and buzzer. At 2 lb, it weighs more than the lighter starter options, but the broad range can suit different children in the same household.
The kit includes a carry bag, shovel and small rake. Its search coil is described as waterproof, while the screen is not, so keep the control section dry around water.
Choose it for adjustable family use when two children may take turns with the detector. See our best waterproof metal detector for kids for more options suited to wet ground and beach searches.
GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids: Best for growing with an adult
- Adjustable from 39.3 to 51.3 in
- Two operating modes
- LCD with backlight
- Waterproof coil
The long adjustable stem and two modes make this a family-use option for older or taller children who can manage its 3.8 lb weight. The control box is not waterproof.
Pros
- Long adjustment range
- All-metal and discrimination modes
- Waterproof coil
Cons
- Heaviest pick here
- Control box must stay dry
The GoGonova is the shared-use pick for older or taller children who can manage a longer detector. Its stem adjusts from 39.3 to 51.3 in, and its two modes include all-metal and discrimination.
At 3.8 lb, it is the heaviest model in this roundup, so it may not suit a young child for an extended search. The waterproof coil can be used around water, but the control box is not waterproof.
Choose it when an adult and child want to share one detector and the child can handle its weight. If a brand-specific comparison would help, read best Bounty Hunter metal detectors for kids.
Blue Marble National Geographic Metal Detector for Kids: Best for pinpointing targets
- Pinpoint function
- Three detection modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Trowel and learning guide included
The pinpoint function helps narrow down a target after a wider search, and three modes add flexibility. Its 1.4 lb weight remains manageable for many children.
Pros
- Pinpoint function
- Three selectable modes
- Trowel and guide included
Cons
- Heavier than the starter kit
- May need adult help with multiple modes
This National Geographic model adds a pinpoint function to its 7.4 in waterproof coil, three selectable modes and adjustable sensitivity. It weighs 1.4 lb, and the telescoping arm and comfort grip help children adjust the fit.
The included trowel and learning guide give families a few useful tools for getting started. The pinpoint function helps narrow the search area once a larger signal is found, which can reduce guesswork before digging.
Choose it for a child who wants more control than a basic starter detector provides. For a shorter stem and simpler setup, the National Geographic Starter Kit above is lighter.
DetectTrek MD-4070 Metal Detector for Kids: Best for a backlit display
- 1.9 lb
- Adjustable from 30 to 41 in
- LCD backlight
- Waterproof 8 in coil
A backlit LCD, adjustable stem and waterproof coil make this a feature-rich option for family outings. The control box is not waterproof.
Pros
- Backlit LCD
- Adjustable stem
- Waterproof search coil
Cons
- Heavier than the lightest picks
- Control box must stay dry
The DetectTrek MD-4070 combines a backlit LCD with an adjustable 30 to 41 in stem and an 8 in waterproof coil. It weighs 1.9 lb, which is still manageable for many older children but heavier than the lightest picks.
The detector has a DISC mode to filter some unwanted targets, and the display is designed to help beginners distinguish signals. Keep the control box dry, and check the child’s grip and comfort before planning a long search.
Choose it for a backlit display and a longer stem range than the smaller child-focused models. If your child is ready for a longer detector, see our guide to the best metal detector for teens.
How we compared kids’ metal detectors
We compared detector weight, adjustment range, control style and features that can make a first search easier. A child needs to hold the coil near the ground and sweep it steadily, so a comfortable fit can matter more than a long list of modes.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you’re shopping for. We favored child-sized weight and simple controls, while also noting when a model can serve adults or handle wet search areas.
What should you check before choosing a kids metal detector?
Start with the child’s height and the detector’s weight, then consider where you plan to search. A detector that is easy to carry and adjust is more likely to feel comfortable through a full outing.
How much should a kids metal detector weigh?
A lighter detector is often easier for a child to hold and sweep for longer. Several picks here weigh about 1.2 to 1.4 lb, while the family-use GoGonova weighs 3.8 lb.
Treat weight as a starting point, not a guarantee of comfort. Let the child hold the detector and check whether they can keep the coil level without straining.
Do kids need simple controls or extra detection modes?
Simple controls can help a beginner focus on sweeping and listening for a signal. Extra modes and discrimination settings can reduce some unwanted signals, but they may take adult guidance to use well.
For a first detector, look for controls the child can understand and repeat. A target meter, clear audio alert or simple screen can make it easier to follow a signal.
Can a kids metal detector go in water?
Some models have waterproof coils, but that does not mean the full detector can be submerged. Check what part is waterproof and any stated depth limit, then keep the control box dry unless the product specifically says otherwise.
For beach searches, plan around wet sand and shallow water rather than assuming a child’s detector is built for underwater use. Our what a metal detector is used for guide covers common search settings and uses.
What should children expect to find?
A detector signals metal, but it cannot promise that a target is valuable or identify every object with certainty. Coins, jewelry and relics are possible finds, while nails and other discarded metal may also trigger a signal.
For a coin-focused setup, compare metal detectors for coins.
Set a simple goal for the outing, such as finding a coin or learning how the detector responds to different objects. See what you can find with a metal detector for more examples.
Which metal detector for kids should you choose?
Choose the Bounty Hunter Junior if a child needs a lightweight detector with an adjustable fit and clear audio feedback. Pick the National Geographic Starter Kit for simple operation and included learning materials, or choose the TK4 Tracker IV if adults will share the detector and want three modes.
For an older child who wants a longer adjustable stem, consider GoGonova if its weight is manageable. Compare fit, controls and the planned search area before choosing the best metal detector for kids in your family.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for shared family hunts
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for a lightweight first detector
Bounty Hunter Junior Metal Detector for Kids
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for simple setup and learning
Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for in a metal detector for kids?
Choose a detector that fits the child’s height, feels manageable to carry and has controls they can use without constant help. Weight and stem adjustment matter as much as extra modes.
For a first outing, simple alerts can keep attention on sweeping slowly and learning what different signals mean.
What age can a child use a metal detector?
It depends on the child’s height, strength and comfort with the controls. The Bounty Hunter Junior is designed for ages 6+, while the National Geographic Starter Kit is aimed at ages 8–12.
Check the fit and weight with adult supervision before a long search.
Can kids use a metal detector at the beach?
Yes, if the search coil is suitable for the planned area and the control box stays dry when required. Some coils are waterproof, while others have a stated depth limit.
For more options, see our best waterproof metal detectors for kids.
What can children find with a metal detector?
A detector can signal coins, jewelry, relics and other metal objects, depending on the site and detector settings. The signal does not identify every object with certainty, so dig carefully and follow local rules.
Our guide explains what you can find with a metal detector.
