9 Best Metal Detectors for Use in Water (October 2026)

The best metal detectors for water detecting include the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector for shallow water and wet ground, the DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector for Adults for shallow beaches and riverbanks, and the Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer for checking a target in shallow water.

On this page (7 sections)

1. Which metal detectors work in water?
2. Best metal detectors for use in water
3. How deep should a water metal detector work?
4. Is a waterproof coil enough for beach detecting?
5. What should you check before buying a waterproof detector?
6. More guides on this topic
7. Which water metal detector should you choose?

The MINELAB X-Terra PRO is the best full-size metal detector here for use in water, with a stated full-submersion limit of 16 ft. The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT reaches 20 ft, but it is a handheld pinpointer for locating targets after a broad search.

The key buying question is what you mean by “works in water.” A waterproof coil can search wet sand or shallow water while the control unit stays dry, but that isn't the same as a detector you can submerge.

For shoreline and dry-ground choices, compare beach and land metal detectors.

For basics on metal detecting in water, start with the kind of shoreline or water you plan to search. If you're comparing a detector for both dry ground and wet conditions, see our guide to the best metal detector for land and water.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for shallow water and wet ground

   Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for shallow beaches and riverbanks

   DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector for Adults

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for checking a target in shallow water

   Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof

   Best for full submersion
   Check it
5. 5

   Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector

   Best for deeper target pinpointing
   Check it
6. 6

   DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer

   Best for underwater target recovery
   Check it
7. 7

   SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults

   Best for compact shallow-water checks
   Check it
8. 8

   ikiu 2026 Latest Higher Accuracy Professional Metal

   Best for beach searches with a dry control unit
   Check it
9. 9

   LAFMATE 2-in-1 Metal Detector Pinpointer with Digging

   Best for shallow-water pinpointing with a tool
   Check it

Which metal detectors work in water?

The best metal detector that works in water depends on its waterproof boundary and the depth you plan to reach. A submersible full-size detector can sweep underwater, while a coil-only model requires the control box to stay above water.

We compared the stated water protection and handling features for each pick. Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for, with special attention to usable depth and whether the unit can sweep a search area or only pinpoint a target.

Best metal detectors for use in water

A full-size detector is the right tool for searching a broad stretch of shoreline or underwater ground. Pinpointers help with recovery once you have a target signal, but they are not substitutes for a search coil.

1

Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector: Best for shallow water and wet ground

9.7/10Our score

• 8 in waterproof search coil
• All-metal, tone and discrimination modes
• Adjustable sensitivity

The waterproof 8 in coil can search shallow water and damp ground. Keep the control unit out of the water because its submersion depth is not stated.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Waterproof coil
• Three detection modes
• Adjustable sensitivity

Cons

• No stated submersion depth for the control unit
• Not a fully submersible detector

The Bounty Hunter TK4 suits searches around wet ground and shallow water, where its 8 in waterproof coil can pass over sand or soil. It has all-metal, tone and discrimination modes, plus adjustable sensitivity.

The important limit is that only the coil is identified as waterproof. The detector's submersion depth is not stated, so keep its control unit out of water rather than treating the TK4 as a dive detector.

Its analog controls and adjustable setup may suit someone who wants a straightforward detector for beaches, yards and damp ground. For a fully submersible unit, choose a model with a stated depth rating.

Choose it for shallow-water coil searches with the control unit kept dry. Skip it if you need to put the entire detector underwater.

2

DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector for Adults: Best for shallow beaches and riverbanks

9.7/10Our score

• 10 in IP68 waterproof search coil
• Five detection modes
• Control box is not waterproof

The waterproof 10 in coil suits wet sand, riverbanks and shallow water. The control box must stay dry, so this isn't a fully submersible choice.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Large waterproof coil
• Five detection modes
• Backlit LCD

Cons

• Control box is not waterproof
• No stated safe submersion depth

The DR.ÖTEK has a 10 in IP68 waterproof search coil and five modes, including jewelry and pinpoint. Its stated uses include beaches, shallow water, wet sand, riverbanks and creeks.

The control box is not waterproof, so this is a shoreline and shallow-water option rather than a fully submersible detector. Keep the display and controls above the waterline, especially when moving through waves or uneven banks.

Its larger LCD shows target type, depth, sensitivity, mode and battery status. The adjustable stem ranges from 42.7 to 53.5 in, which gives adults and children room to set a comfortable length.

Choose it for beach and riverbank searches where you can keep the control unit dry. If you need to search underwater with the whole detector, look at the MINELAB instead.

3

Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for checking a target in shallow water

9.7/10Our score

• Partially waterproof probe tip
• Single-button operation
• Audio and LED alerts

The probe tip can help check for metal in water while you keep the switches and speaker dry. It is a target-finding aid, not a full-size detector.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Probe tip can enter water
• Single-button operation
• Lightweight handheld design

Cons

• Only the tip is waterproof
• Switches and speaker must stay dry

The Dmyond is a handheld pinpointer with a partially waterproof probe tip. It can help check for metal in water after you have already found a target area.

The switches and speaker are not waterproof. Only the tip should enter water, and the unit should not be used submerged as a whole detector.

Its single button activates an LED and audio alarm, with stronger alerts as it gets closer to a metal target. That simple feedback can help narrow a recovery spot in wet sand or a shallow water edge.

Choose it for limited tip-first checks around a find. For a pinpointer that can be submerged as a whole unit, consider the DR.ÖTEK MT6 PRO or Garrett Pro-Pointer AT.

4

MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof: Best for full submersion

9.6/10Our score

• IP68 waterproof to 16 ft
• Park, field and beach search modes
• Handgrip vibration and control pod flashlight

Full submersion protection to 16 ft makes this the strongest full-size detector choice for underwater searches in this group. Its beach modes and handgrip vibration also suit wet conditions.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Fully waterproof to 16 ft
• Beach search modes
• Handgrip vibration

Cons

• Heavier than a handheld pinpointer
• Submersion limit is 16 ft

The MINELAB X-Terra PRO is the clearest choice here for full-size underwater searching because it is fully waterproof to 16 ft. Its Park, Field and Beach modes let you set up for different ground, including beach conditions.

It weighs 2.8 lb and has a three-piece shaft that packs down to 25 in. Handgrip vibration can provide feedback through the handle, while a control pod flashlight and backlit display support low-light use.

The detector offers 30 discrimination segments and a pinpoint mode for narrowing a target before digging. Its stated depth limit makes it suitable for underwater searches within 16 ft, but it is not a 20 ft option.

Choose it for a full-size detector that can be submerged to a defined depth. If your planned search goes deeper than 16 ft, compare the Garrett pinpointer's 20 ft rating while remembering it serves a different role.

5

Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Waterproof Metal Detector: Best for deeper target pinpointing

9.5/10Our score

• Submersible to 20 ft
• Three sensitivity levels
• Orange casing for underwater visibility

This submersible handheld pinpointer reaches the greatest stated depth in this group at 20 ft. Use it to narrow a target's location rather than scan a broad area.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Submersible to 20 ft
• Orange casing is easy to see
• Retune and sensitivity controls

Cons

• A pinpointer rather than a full-size detector
• Designed to locate targets after a broad search

The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT is a fully submersible pinpointer rated to 20 ft, the deepest stated limit among these picks. Its orange casing is easier to see underwater than a dark tool, and its three sensitivity levels help adjust the signal.

This is a handheld target-recovery tool, not a detector for sweeping a wide area. Use a full-size detector to locate a promising zone, then use the Garrett to narrow the target's position.

The one-button controls cover power, retune, sensitivity and stealth mode. A molded ruler on the body can help judge target depth during recovery.

Choose it if you want a pinpointer for underwater target recovery down to its stated depth. For a single full-size detector you can sweep underwater, the MINELAB is the better fit.

6

DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for underwater target recovery

9.5/10Our score

• IP68 fully waterproof design
• LCD, audio and vibration alerts
• 360-degree side scanning

This fully waterproof pinpointer is suited to narrowing down targets underwater after a larger search. Its 360-degree side scan and multiple alerts help guide recovery.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Fully waterproof design
• Visual, audio and vibration alerts
• 360-degree side scanning

Cons

• No specific submersion depth stated
• Handheld pinpointer, not a broad-area detector

The DR.ÖTEK MT6 PRO is a fully waterproof pinpointer with an LCD, audio and vibration alerts. Its 360-degree side scan helps locate a target around the probe after a larger detector has identified an area.

A specific submersion depth is not stated, so don't assume it matches the Garrett's 20 ft rating. Its full-waterproof design is useful for recovery in wet sand, lakes and rivers, but check the intended depth before taking it underwater.

The anti-slip rubber grip and built-in LED light add handling help in low light. The screen also provides a visual signal when the wand detects metal.

Choose it for a fully waterproof pinpointer with several alert types. Choose the Garrett if a stated depth limit matters more than an LCD and vibration alerts.

7

SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults: Best for compact shallow-water checks

9.4/10Our score

• IP68 waterproof tip and scale section
• 360-degree side scan
• Sound and vibration alerts

The compact handheld design suits short target checks in wet sand or shallow water. Its waterproof coverage is limited to the tip and scale section, and no submersion depth is stated.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 360-degree side scan
• Sound and vibration alerts
• Compact handheld design

Cons

• Waterproof coverage is limited to tip and scale section
• No specific submersion depth stated

The SUNPOW pinpointer has IP68 protection for its waterproof tip and scale section. It is a compact option for checking a target in wet sand or near the water's edge, rather than sweeping a large area.

It uses a single button and gives sound and vibration alerts. Its stated detection depth is 3.5 in, though a pinpointer's practical reach depends on the target and conditions.

The exact submersion depth is not stated, and the waterproof claim applies to the tip and scale section. Keep the rest of the unit out of the water unless you confirm its safe limits.

Choose it for compact shallow-water checks and simple alerts. For full-unit underwater use with a specified depth, the Garrett or MINELAB gives a clearer limit.

8

ikiu 2026 Latest Higher Accuracy Professional Metal: Best for beach searches with a dry control unit

9.3/10Our score

• IP68 waterproof search coil
• Four detection modes
• Control unit is not waterproof

The waterproof search coil suits beach and river-edge searches as long as you protect the controller from water. Its lighter stated weight may appeal for longer dry-ground searches.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• IP68 waterproof coil
• Four detection modes
• Adjustable sensitivity

Cons

• Controller is not waterproof
• No safe coil submersion depth stated

The ikiu detector has an IP68 waterproof search coil and four modes: all-metal, notch, memory and pinpoint. The controller is not waterproof, so use it on a beach or river edge with the coil in wet areas and the controller protected.

Its adjustable sensitivity has five levels, and the stem adjusts from 36.6 to 47 in. At 2.26 lb, it is a relatively light full-size option for dry-ground and shoreline searches.

No safe coil submersion depth is stated. Treat it as a coil-only water option until you confirm whether the coil can be submerged and under what conditions.

Choose it for beach searches where the controller stays dry. It is not the right choice for submerging the full detector.

9

LAFMATE 2-in-1 Metal Detector Pinpointer with Digging: Best for shallow-water pinpointing with a tool

9.0/10Our score

• IP68 fully waterproof pinpointer
• Three sensitivity levels
• Detachable digging shovel

The waterproof pinpointer includes a detachable digging shovel for locating and recovering small targets. No specific submersion depth is stated, so confirm its limits for your planned water.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Pinpointer and detachable shovel
• Three sensitivity levels
• Audio and vibration alerts

Cons

• No specific submersion depth stated
• Not a full-size detector

The LAFMATE combines a fully waterproof pinpointer with a detachable digging shovel. It offers three sensitivity levels and audio or vibration alerts, so you can choose feedback suited to a noisy or quiet search.

The stated information does not give a specific submersion depth. Confirm the safe depth before taking it underwater, especially if you plan to search below wading depth.

Its 360-degree detection can help narrow a target after a full-size detector signals. The shovel screws onto the opposite end of the probe or detaches when you want to carry the tool separately.

Choose it for shallow recovery when a pinpointer and digging tool in one kit are useful. For underwater searches beyond the shallows, pick a model with a stated depth rating.

How deep should a water metal detector work?

Choose a detector whose stated submersion depth exceeds the depth where you plan to search. The full-size MINELAB is rated to 16 ft, while the Garrett pinpointer is rated to 20 ft for target recovery.

Depth ratings matter only when they apply to the whole device. A waterproof coil or probe tip does not make the control unit, switches or speaker safe to submerge.

For deeper underwater searches, our guide to the best underwater metal detectors focuses on complete submersion. Scuba divers can also compare options in our best metal detector for scuba diving guide.

Is a waterproof coil enough for beach detecting?

A waterproof coil can be enough for wet sand and shallow water if the control unit stays dry. It won't support a full underwater sweep when the electronics sit below the surface.

The DR.ÖTEK, ikiu and Bounty Hunter picks here have waterproof coils, with different limits on what can enter the water. Keep the detector at a height that protects its controls from splashes and waves.

If you want one unit for dry land and shoreline use, compare our guide to the best metal detector for land and water. For a different brand-focused comparison, see the best Minelab waterproof metal detector.

What should you check before buying a waterproof detector?

Check which parts are waterproof, the stated depth limit and whether the tool is a full-size detector or a pinpointer. These details determine if it can sweep underwater, search only at the edge, or help recover a target you have already found.

A useful waterproof metal detectors buying guide can help you compare submersion ratings and controls. New users may also want our guide to the best waterproof metal detector for beginners.

Water type and access matter too. For lake edges, read about metal detecting lakes; for moving water, check our tips on metal detecting in rivers.

Before putting any model in water, confirm that its controls and seals match the planned use. The best Nokta underwater metal detector guide offers another brand-specific comparison, while our page on the MD-3010II metal detector waterproof question explains why coil protection and full submersion are different claims.

More guides on this topic

• Best Small Underwater Metal Detectors

Which water metal detector should you choose?

Choose the MINELAB X-Terra PRO if you need a full-size detector rated for submersion to 16 ft. Choose the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT if you need a pinpointer rated to 20 ft for recovering a target, or pick a coil-only model for wet shoreline searches with its controls kept dry.

Plan your target and search area before choosing a tool. Our guides to What Can You Find With a Metal Detector? and [What Is a Metal Detector Used For?

The Basics](/what-is-a-metal-detector-used-for/) can help you decide which setup suits your search.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for shallow water and wet ground

   Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for shallow beaches and riverbanks

   DR.ÖTEK Metal Detector for Adults

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for checking a target in shallow water

   Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

Can any metal detector be used underwater?

No. Some detectors have only a waterproof search coil, while others can be submerged as a complete unit.

Check which parts are waterproof and the stated depth limit before putting a detector in water.

Keep a control box dry when its submersion protection is not specified.

What is the deepest waterproof metal detector in this roundup?

The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT has the greatest stated submersion depth here at 20 ft. It's a handheld pinpointer for narrowing down a target, while the full-size MINELAB X-Terra PRO is waterproof to 16 ft.

Choose based on whether you need to scan an area or pinpoint a find.

Is a waterproof coil enough for underwater detecting?

A waterproof coil can search shallow water if you keep the control box dry. It does not make the whole detector safe to submerge.

For underwater use where the detector itself will go below the surface, choose a model with a stated full-unit submersion rating.

Do I need a pinpointer for water detecting?

A pinpointer can help narrow the location of a target after a full-size detector signals in an area. Waterproof models can be useful during recovery, but check whether the whole pinpointer or only its tip is safe to submerge.

A pinpointer does not replace a full-size detector for sweeping a broad search area.