9 Best Metal Detectors Under $100 (November 2026)
The best metal detectors under 100 dollars include the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector for first-time all-terrain hunting, the Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer for simple target recovery, and the SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults & for 360-degree pinpointing.
On this page (4 sections)
The best metal detector under 100 dollars for most beginners is the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV, with 3 detection modes and an 8-inch waterproof coil. It offers a clear starting point without a long menu of settings to learn first.
Choose GoGonova or ikiu if you want a backlit LCD and more digital control. Choose a pinpointer when precise recovery matters more than scanning large areas.
This roundup compares stated modes, coil sizes, waterproof sections, controls, adjustment ranges and included accessories against common beginner needs. Two similar looking models can behave very differently in daily use.
Coil size affects ground coverage per sweep, while shaft adjustment affects comfort in a yard or on a beach. Water protection also needs close reading, since a waterproof coil or tip does not always mean the control box can go underwater.
For a first purchase, think about where you will hunt most often. A yard, park, beach and shallow creek each place different demands on sensitivity and recovery.
Shared use matters too, especially for families. A detector that adjusts for children and adults saves time, while simpler controls help younger users stay engaged.
For more choices, see our guide to the best low price metal detector. A higher budget may open more options in our best metal detectors under 150 dollars.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for first-time all-terrain huntingBounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for 360-degree pinpointingSUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itGoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Best for family beach hunts - 5
Check itikiu 2026 Latest Higher Accuracy Metal Detector
Best for a guided LCD interface - 6
Check itSUNPOW Professional Metal Detector for Adults
Best for a wide search coil - 7
Check itDmyond Rechargeable Metal Detector Pinpointer
Best for rechargeable recovery work - 8
Check itCKG Metal Detector Pinpointer 360° Detection Professional
Best for underwater pinpointing - 9
Check itGDDREAM Metal Detector for Adults
Best for a complete starter kit
The best metal detectors under 100 dollars by use
The best metal detectors under 100 dollars split into two groups: full-size detectors for scanning ground and handheld pinpointers for locating a target after a signal. Pick the group first, then compare the controls and water protection you need.
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector: Best for first-time all-terrain hunting
- 3 detection modes
- 8-inch waterproof coil
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Battery powered
The TK4 gives beginners a simple way to search for coins, gold, silver and relics across yards, parks, beaches and forests. Its 3 modes offer more control than a basic all-metal detector.
Pros
- 3 detection modes
- Waterproof 8-inch coil
- Suitable for adults and kids
Cons
- Analog controls may feel less guided than a digital display
- The control box is not described as waterproof
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is the best starting point for a beginner who wants a traditional detector with simple controls. Its all-metal, tone and discrimination modes give you different ways to respond to targets instead of limiting every hunt to one signal style.
The 8-inch waterproof coil suits damp soil, sandy ground and shallow water searches. Keep the difference between a waterproof coil and a waterproof control box in mind when hunting near water.
Adjustable sensitivity helps you change the detector's response as ground conditions and target areas change. The battery-powered design also keeps the setup familiar for casual park, yard or forest hunts.
The TK4 works well for adults and kids because the controls are easy to understand and the detector is portable. Its main trade-off is that an LCD-guided interface may feel easier for users who want target information on a screen.
Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for simple target recovery
- Single-button operation
- LED and sound alerts
- Partially waterproof needle pointer
- 5 to 7 hours of battery use
This compact pinpointer helps narrow a target after a larger detector finds a signal. Its single-button design and rising alarm intensity make it straightforward for new users.
Pros
- Lightweight 175 g body
- LED and sound alerts
- Belt sheath and handbag included
Cons
- Only the needle pointer is partially waterproof
- Cannot identify a specific metal type
The Dmyond Metal Detector Pinpointer is for the recovery stage, not for scanning a large field. After a full-size detector signals a target, the handheld probe helps you narrow the location before you dig farther.
Its single-button operation activates an LED and sound alert. The alarm becomes stronger as the probe moves closer to metal, which gives a new user a clear way to compare positions around a hole.
That rising response is useful when you are working in loose soil or sand, because you can move slowly and listen for the point where the signal grows strongest. It also helps you avoid digging a wider hole than the target requires.
Dmyond describes the needle pointer as partially waterproof. You can place that section into water, but the switches and horn are not waterproof, so keep the rest of the tool out of the water.
The pinpointer weighs 175 g and includes a plastic elastic roll belt, belt sheath and handbag. That light body is easy to carry, and the sheath helps keep the probe close at hand while you dig.
Battery use is about 5 to 7 hours, making it a useful choice for shorter outings where simple operation matters. Carry a fresh 9V battery for longer days, since a weak battery can make the alert less reliable.
This tool suits beginners who want a simple companion for coins, jewelry and small lost items. Its main limit is that it cannot identify a specific metal type, so it should be paired with a full-size detector for searching.
SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &: Best for 360-degree pinpointing
- 360-degree side scan
- 3.5-inch detection depth
- Sound and vibration alerts
- IP68 waterproof tip and scale section
The OTMD12 suits users who want a compact recovery tool with side-scan detection and two alert modes. Its waterproof protection covers the tip and scale section for wet searches.
Pros
- 360-degree detection
- Sound and vibration alerts
- Includes 9V battery
Cons
- It is a pinpointer, not a full-size search detector
- The controller section should be kept within its stated protection limits
The SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults & is a good fit when you want 360-degree side-scan detection in a small recovery tool. Its 3.5-inch detection depth gives you a clear limit for checking soil, grass, sand and recovery holes.
That side-scan design can help when a target sits against the side of a hole, because the probe does not need to be aimed only from the tip. It is a practical detail for recovery work in a garden bed or at the edge of a beach search area.
The OTMD12 offers sound and vibration alert modes through one-button operation. That makes it easier to choose an alert style for a quiet yard, a windy beach or a place where you do not want to rely only on sound.
Vibration can be helpful when waves, wind or nearby activity make audio alerts harder to hear. Sound can be quicker when your hands are busy and you want to keep your eyes on the ground.
Its IP68 protection applies to the waterproof tip and scale section. The included retractable hanging wire, belt loop, user manual and 9V battery make the setup simple for a first search.
Keep the rest of the probe within its stated limits, and dry it after wet use. That care helps protect the controls and keeps the tool ready for the next outing.
This is not a replacement for a full-size detector. It is better suited to the precise part of a hunt, especially when a large detector has already narrowed down the target area.
GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids: Best for family beach hunts
- All-metal and discrimination modes
- 39.3 to 51.3-inch adjustable stem
- Backlit LCD
- IP68 waterproof search coil
The PD70 is a practical family choice because the stem adjusts for children ages 8 to 12 and adults. Its LCD, backlight, waterproof coil and starter accessories cover common yard and beach trips.
Pros
- Adjustable stem for different users
- Backlit LCD
- Carry bag and digging tools included
Cons
- The control box is not waterproof
- The included shovel is intended for soft material or sand
The GoGonova PD70 is the best family-oriented full-size pick because its stem adjusts from 39.3 to 51.3 inches. That range lets children ages 8 to 12 and adults share the detector with fewer fit compromises.
A shared stem matters, since reaching too far or stooping tires users more quickly. Setting length before you start makes each sweep slower and more controlled.
All-metal mode responds to any metal, while discrimination reduces attention on unwanted targets. Use discrimination with care, since filtering can also remove a target you wanted.
The large LCD has a backlight for dim conditions, and the 8-inch waterproof coil suits outdoor searches. The control box is not waterproof, so water protection stops at the coil.
The kit includes a carry bag, multi-functional shovel, anti-noise earphones and 2 9V batteries. The shovel is for soft material or sand, not hard or firm ground, so bring a sturdier tool for hard soil.
ikiu 2026 Latest Higher Accuracy Metal Detector: Best for a guided LCD interface
- 4 detection modes
- 5 sensitivity levels
- 36.6 to 47-inch adjustable stem
- IP68 waterproof search coil
The ikiu gives beginners more digital control through 4 modes, 5 sensitivity levels and a backlit LCD. Its adjustable stem fits children and adults, while the coil suits beach, river and backyard searches.
Pros
- 4 detection modes
- 5 sensitivity settings
- Lightweight adjustable design
Cons
- The controller is not waterproof
- A larger number of settings may take longer to learn
The ikiu 2026 Latest Higher Accuracy Metal Detector suits beginners who want more guidance from a digital display. Its 4 modes are All Metal, Notch, Memory and PinPoint, with 5 sensitivity levels for adjusting the response.
Those options give you a way to adapt as the ground changes. Notch and Memory can help you set aside repeated unwanted signals, while PinPoint is useful when you want to narrow a target before digging.
The backlit LCD helps you read settings in daylight or low light. Reading the current mode and sensitivity on screen can make it easier to return to a setting that worked well in a previous spot.
The adjustable stem runs from 36.6 to 47 inches, and the 2.26-pound weight makes it easier to share between children and adults. A lighter detector can reduce arm fatigue during longer park or beach sessions.
Its IP68 waterproof search coil fits beach, river and rainy-ground searches, but the controller is not waterproof. Keep that distinction clear when you move from damp ground to deeper water.
A simple set of habits helps here. Sweep slowly, change one setting at a time, and note which change made the signals clearer or quieter.
The ikiu is a better match for users who enjoy adjusting settings than for someone who wants only a basic tone response. More modes can help you adapt, but they also give you more to learn before a hunt feels automatic.
SUNPOW Professional Metal Detector for Adults: Best for a wide search coil
- 12-inch waterproof coil
- 5 detection modes
- 2 backlit LCDs
- 19 to 59-inch adjustable length
The SUNPOW OTMD14 gives you a larger 12-inch coil and a long adjustment range for covering open ground. It suits adults who want a full-size detector with 5 modes and backlit displays.
Pros
- Largest stated coil in this roundup
- 19 to 59-inch adjustment
- 2 backlit LCDs
Cons
- The control box is not waterproof
- A larger coil can be less convenient in tight spaces
The SUNPOW Professional Metal Detector for Adults is the full-size choice for covering more ground with a 12-inch waterproof coil. Its 19 to 59-inch adjustment range also gives tall users more room to set a comfortable length.
That wide range helps when users of different heights share one detector. Shorter users can shorten the shaft for control, while taller users can lengthen it to avoid bending.
Five detection modes and 2 backlit LCDs put more information near the handle. Checking a mode change is easier without stepping away from the target area.
The detector weighs 2 pounds, and the design folds down for transport. A compact size makes it easier to carry for a beach, field or garden trip.
SUNPOW describes the coil as IP68 rated for land and water. The control box is not waterproof, so do not treat the complete detector as submersible.
The wider coil sweeps open beaches, fields and gardens efficiently, but needs steady overlapping passes to avoid gaps. It is less convenient around tight obstacles, dense brush or narrow spaces.
For open ground, the larger coil is a clear advantage. For close work near fences, roots or rocks, slow down and use shorter sweeps.
Dmyond Rechargeable Metal Detector Pinpointer: Best for rechargeable recovery work
- 800mAh rechargeable battery
- Up to 12 hours per charge
- 3 alert modes
- IP68 probe waterproofing
This Dmyond pinpointer is for users who want rechargeable power and more than one alert style. Its LCD shows signal strength, mode and electric quantity during recovery work.
Pros
- Rechargeable 800mAh battery
- Up to 12 hours per charge
- Probe can be submerged up to 10 feet
Cons
- It is a handheld pinpointer rather than a full-size detector
- Charging is needed before extended outings
The Dmyond Rechargeable Metal Detector Pinpointer suits users who want to avoid disposable batteries. Its 800mAh battery runs up to 12 hours on one charge, and a white Type-C cable is included.
Rechargeable power suits frequent hunters and anyone keeping a pinpointer in a car or detecting bag. Charging before an outing is simpler than checking for spare batteries.
Three alert combinations offer audio, vibration with LED light, or all three. The LCD shows signal strength, mode and electric quantity, giving more information than a basic sound-only probe.
The IP68-rated probe can be submerged to 10 feet. That suits wet recovery, heavy rain and rivers, within the stated limit.
Maximum detection depth is up to 4 inches, depending on the target. Smaller targets give a weaker response, so slow close passes work best.
Use it with a full-size detector when precision and rechargeable power matter most. Rinse away sand or mud after wet use and dry it before storage.
CKG Metal Detector Pinpointer 360° Detection Professional: Best for underwater pinpointing
- 360-degree detection
- IP68 waterproofing to 10 feet
- 3 alarm modes
- LED tip light and LCD signal bar
The CKG is a strong fit for wet sand, rivers, lakes and surf because its waterproof rating reaches 10 feet. Sound, vibration and both-alert modes let you adapt to noisy or quiet locations.
Pros
- Submersible to 10 feet
- 3 alarm modes
- Included holster, lanyard and battery
Cons
- Pinpointer depth changes with target size
- A 2-inch search coil covers less ground than a full-size detector
The CKG Metal Detector Pinpointer 360° Detection Professional is built for wet pinpointing, with IP68 protection to 10 feet. It suits rivers, lakes, surf and wet sand when a handheld probe is easier to control.
The 360-degree design senses from the tip and sides. An LED tip light and LCD signal bar help in a dim hole, while sound, vibration or both suit different surroundings.
Detection depth changes with target size. CKG describes about 3.5 inches for coins and up to 5 inches for larger metal.
The kit includes a belt holster, wrist lanyard and 9V battery. The holster keeps the probe in reach, and the lanyard can help prevent a drop.
A 2-inch search coil is for pinpointing, not sweeping a field quickly. Use a full-size detector to find the signal, then use this probe to finish recovery.
Rinse the probe after wet use and let it dry before storage. That step helps protect the probe and keeps alerts working.
GDDREAM Metal Detector for Adults: Best for a complete starter kit
- 4 search modes
- 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil
- 5 sensitivity levels
- Backlit LCD
The GDDREAM combines a 10-inch coil, 4 modes and starter accessories for weekend searches. Its shaft adjusts for adults, teens and users of different heights.
Pros
- 10-inch waterproof coil
- Headphones and shovel included
- 5 sensitivity levels
Cons
- The control box should stay dry
- The included shovel is intended for light digging in soft ground
The GDDREAM Metal Detector for Adults is a practical starter kit for weekend hunts because it combines a 10-inch IP68 waterproof coil with headphones, a digging shovel and 2 9V batteries.
That mix covers the main stages of a hunt. The coil searches the ground, the headphones help you hear signals, and the shovel gives you a starting tool for recovery.
Its 4 modes are All Metal, Disc, PP and Tone. Five sensitivity levels and 3 volume settings give you basic control over how the detector responds to targets and surrounding noise.
Tone mode can be a helpful way to learn signal patterns, since pitch changes can guide your ear as you sweep. PP mode is useful after a signal, when you want to narrow the target before digging.
The shaft adjusts from 27.5 to 50 inches, while the 2.4-pound body suits adults, teens and users of different heights. Tool-free assembly also helps when you want to pack the detector for a beach trip or outdoor outing.
The armrest extends up to 8 inches, which can give your forearm more support during longer sweeps. A supported arm often leads to slower, steadier passes.
The included shovel is meant for light digging in sand, loose soil and soft ground. For hard-packed, rocky or heavily rooted soil, plan on a heavier digging tool instead.
The control box should stay dry, even though the coil is waterproof. That one habit protects the electronics while still allowing wet sand and shallow water searches.
How we compared metal detectors under 100 dollars
We gave the highest scores to products that matched the main job behind the search. A full-size detector needed useful modes, a practical coil and controls that a beginner could understand.
A pinpointer needed clear alerts, useful recovery depth and water protection that matched its stated design. Those are different jobs, so the same product cannot score well at both without being designed for both.
We also looked at how a detector fits daily use. Shaft adjustment, weight, battery type and included tools all affect whether a model is comfortable for a child, an adult or a mixed group.
Water protection was checked by section rather than by headline. A waterproof coil, a waterproof probe tip and a fully submersible tool are not the same thing, and the difference matters at the beach or a creek.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you are shopping for. It does not mean every product suits every hunt, and it does not replace checking local rules before detecting on public or private land.
Local rules can vary by park, beach or historic site, so permission and digging rules should be checked before you go. That check is part of good practice for any detector, budget or otherwise.
The goal is a fair comparison for beginners. Clear modes, honest water limits and tools that match the ground you plan to search matter more than a long list of features you may not use.
Which best inexpensive metal detector under 100 is easiest to use?
The Bounty Hunter TK4 is the simplest full-size choice because it uses 3 clear modes and adjustable sensitivity. GoGonova and ikiu are better if you want a backlit LCD and more digital settings.
A pinpointer such as the Dmyond model with one-button operation can be easier still, but it only handles precise recovery after another detector finds a signal.
What should you check before buying a metal detector under 100?
Check whether the product is a full-size detector or a pinpointer first. Then compare the coil size, waterproof section, shaft adjustment, modes, power source and included digging tools.
A larger coil can cover more ground, while a pinpointer can help you recover a target with less digging. For jewelry searches, see our guide to the best inexpensive metal detector for jewelry.
For older objects, compare the best inexpensive metal detector for relics.
Can you use these detectors at the beach?
Yes, several picks have waterproof search coils or probe sections suited to wet sand and shallow water. Protect every control box and switch section that is not described as waterproof.
Saltwater beaches can also create more challenging ground conditions than a dry yard. Start with lower sensitivity if you hear unstable signals, then raise it gradually while sweeping slowly.
Do you need a pinpointer with a budget detector?
A pinpointer is not required, but it can make target recovery more precise. The full-size detector finds a signal over a wider area, while the handheld tool helps identify the target's position inside loose soil or a recovery hole.
The Dmyond, SUNPOW and CKG pinpointers here offer different trade-offs in alert style, water protection and power. Choose one based on how you plan to recover targets, not as a substitute for a full-size detector.
How to set up and care for a budget metal detector
Assemble the shaft and coil securely, then set the length so your arm stays relaxed during a sweep. Use fresh batteries where applicable, and keep the coil parallel to the ground.
A relaxed arm helps keep a steady height. If the coil rises and falls, signals fade and depth is harder to judge.
Begin with a coin on clean ground to practice modes and sensitivity. That practice teaches how each mode sounds before you move into trash-heavy soil.
Keep waterproof coils and probes within their stated limits. Wipe away soil and sand, dry every non-waterproof section, and store tools with care.
For pinpointers, rinse the tip after wet use and dry it before sheathing. For full-size detectors, check the coil and shaft for cracks or loose fittings.
Sweep slowly and overlap each pass, especially with a larger coil. Moving too fast can make you miss the center of a target.
When you get a signal, narrow it before digging. Use pinpoint mode where available, or make shorter passes to find the strongest response.
Dig a small neat hole and check soil in stages, using a pinpointer for walls and loose soil. If the target is not there, refill carefully and search nearby.
For more on service life, read How Long Do Metal Detectors Last?. For an adult, our guide to the best budget metal detector for adults can help narrow the fit.
Store the detector dry, with batteries removed for long storage. Check shaft locks and the coil cable before each outing.
Final pick for the best metal detector under 100 dollars
The best metal detector under 100 dollars is the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV if you want a simple full-size detector with 3 modes and an 8-inch waterproof coil. Pick GoGonova for a family setup, ikiu for a guided LCD experience, or SUNPOW for a larger coil.
Each choice solves a different part of a beginner hunt. The TK4 keeps controls simple, GoGonova helps different ages share one detector, ikiu adds digital guidance, and SUNPOW covers more open ground.
Choose a Dmyond, SUNPOW or CKG pinpointer when you need to locate a target after a larger detector signals. A pinpointer will not scan a field, but it makes recovery faster and digging neater.
Most beginners should start with a full-size detector, then add a pinpointer for precision. Check the waterproof section before any beach or creek hunt, since a waterproof coil does not mean the control box can go underwater.
Check included tools against your ground too. A starter shovel suits sand and loose soil, but hard ground may need a sturdier tool.
Learn the modes in a clean area before a busy hunt. Start simple, trust the signals, and add tools as your hunts grow.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for first-time all-terrain hunting
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for 360-degree pinpointing
SUNPOW Metal Detector Pinpointer for Adults &
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best metal detector under 100 dollars for a beginner?
The Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is the strongest beginner pick here because it combines 3 detection modes, adjustable sensitivity and an 8-inch waterproof coil. Choose GoGonova or ikiu if you prefer a backlit LCD with more digital settings.
Your best choice still depends on whether you want a full-size detector or a handheld pinpointer.
Can a metal detector under 100 dollars find coins and jewelry?
Yes. The detectors in this roundup are designed to detect metal targets such as coins, jewelry, gold, silver and relics, but results vary with target size, soil, orientation and depth.
Use discrimination or notch settings carefully because filtering can also remove targets you may want to recover.
Are cheap metal detectors waterproof?
Some budget detectors have waterproof coils, but that does not mean the entire detector can be submerged. GoGonova, ikiu, SUNPOW and GDDREAM describe waterproof coils, while their control boxes should stay dry.
Pinpointers also vary, so check which section has the stated waterproof protection before entering water.
Should I buy a full-size detector or a pinpointer?
Buy a full-size detector when you need to scan yards, beaches or fields. Buy a pinpointer when you already have a signal and need to locate the target more precisely in soil, sand or a recovery hole.
Many beginners eventually use both because they solve different parts of the hunt.
How do you choose the best inexpensive metal detector under 100?
Start with the type of search you plan to do. Compare coil size, waterproof sections, detection modes, sensitivity controls, shaft adjustment and included tools.
For a first full-size detector, the TK4 is the simplest choice.
For precise recovery, choose a pinpointer such as the SUNPOW OTMD12 or rechargeable Dmyond.
