9 Best Waterproof Minelab Metal Detectors (November 2026)
The best Minelab waterproof metal detectors include the MINELAB X-Terra Elite All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof for all-terrain versatility, the Minelab PRO-FIND 40 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector for pinpointing wet targets, and the MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof for switchable frequencies.
On this page (7 sections)
- The best Minelab waterproof metal detectors compared
- Which Minelab waterproof detector has the best water rating?
- How should you choose a Minelab waterproof metal detector?
- What else should you bring for wet detecting?
- What can you find with a Minelab waterproof detector?
- How do you use a waterproof Minelab detector safely?
- Final verdict: which is the best Minelab waterproof metal detector?
The best Minelab waterproof metal detector for most hunters is the X-TERRA ELITE, with Multi-IQ technology, an IP68 rating and Park, Field and Beach modes. It suits mixed ground where you want full-detector water protection, not a coil-only limit.
Choose the X-TERRA PRO for Pro-Switch frequency changes, or the Vanquish 360 for automatic controls and lighter handling with an IP68 rating.
Water protection differs across this group. Some models are fully waterproof, while others rely on a waterproof coil or pinpointer housing.
That matters in use. A waterproof coil can work at a shoreline, but it does not mean the control pod can be submerged.
Weight and controls also affect suitability. A lighter automatic model suits long walks and first outings, while more discrimination controls suit hunters seeking finer target control.
Start with your main hunting ground and expected water depth. Parks, fields and beaches need different search modes.
For a wider comparison, see our best metal detectors for use in water. For deeper underwater searches, see the best underwater metal detectors.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for all-terrain versatilityMINELAB X-Terra Elite All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for pinpointing wet targetsMinelab PRO-FIND 40 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for switchable frequenciesMINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itMinelab GO-FIND 22 Ultra-Light Collapsible Metal Detector
Best for shallow shoreline trips - 5
Check itMinelab Gold Monster 1000 Universal Metal Detector
Best for gold-focused ground hunting - 6
Check itMINELAB Vanquish 360 Fully-Automatic Lightweight Waterproof Metal
Best for automatic beach settings - 7
Check itMINELAB Vanquish 340 Multi-Frequency Metal Detector
Best for simple multi-frequency hunting - 8
Check itMinelab CTX 3030 Waterproof Metal Detector Special
Best for a bundled treasure setup - 9
Check itMINELAB X-Terra Intrepid Metal Detector for Beginners
Best for new shallow-water users
The best Minelab waterproof metal detectors compared
The best Minelab waterproof metal detector depends on how much of the detector can enter the water, how deep you plan to search and how much control you want over settings. We compared the stated water ratings, waterproof parts, search modes, technology, weight and intended hunting conditions.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. A high score here means the product fits more waterproof detecting needs, not that every hunter should choose it.
MINELAB X-Terra Elite All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof: Best for all-terrain versatility
- Multi-IQ technology
- IP68 rating
- Park, Field and Beach modes
- 30 discrimination segments
- 2.8 lb weight
Multi-IQ, 6 preset search modes and an IP68 rating make the X-TERRA ELITE the strongest all-around choice for varied ground and water conditions.
Pros
- Multi-IQ technology
- IP68 rating
- 30 discrimination segments
Cons
- More controls than a basic beginner detector
- The title describes it as a professional model
The X-TERRA ELITE is the top pick because it combines an IP68 rating with Multi-IQ technology and 6 preset modes. The 2 Park, 2 Field and 2 Beach modes give you a clear starting point for common hunting areas.
Its large LCD display, backlit keypad, red backlight display, control pod flashlight and handgrip vibration support use in low light. The detector also has 30 discrimination segments, which gives you more control over the metals you accept or ignore.
The 2.8 lb weight and 12 in search coil create a useful balance for open areas and changing ground. The title describes it as a professional detector for adults, but the intuitive interface is also designed to help beginners get started.
Choose it when you want one detector for parks, fields, beaches and wet conditions. The main trade-off is that its broader feature set gives you more settings to learn than a simple turn-on-and-go detector.
Minelab PRO-FIND 40 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector: Best for pinpointing wet targets
- Full waterproof housing
- IP65 rating
- Ferrous Tone ID
- 5 sensitivity levels
- Built-in flashlight, holster and lanyard
The PRO-FIND 40 is a waterproof pinpointer for narrowing targets after a larger detector finds a signal. Tone ID and 5 sensitivity levels add control during recovery.
Pros
- Full waterproof housing
- Ferrous Tone ID
- 30-hour average battery life
Cons
- A pinpointer is a recovery tool, not a full-size search detector
- IP65 is a different rating from the IP68 full-size detectors
The PRO-FIND 40 serves a different role from the full-size detectors. It is a waterproof pinpointer with an IP65 rating, so use it to narrow the exact location of a target after your main detector gives a signal.
Ferrous Tone ID provides 2 different responses for ferrous and nonferrous targets. That extra cue can help you pause before digging, even if your main detector is set to find most metals.
Five sensitivity levels let you adjust the pinpointer for different ground conditions. Lower settings can suit noisy or mineralized ground, while higher settings can help you check the edges of a dug hole more closely.
Audio and vibration intensify as the probe approaches the target. The paired cues help when you cannot watch the probe closely or when background noise makes sound alone less clear.
The built-in flashlight, holster and lanyard are included. A flashlight helps in shaded holes, while a holster keeps the tool ready between checks without filling a pocket with sand.
Its average battery life is 30 hours, and its operating frequency is 13.5 KHz. That run time suits repeated short recovery checks rather than all-day searching on its own.
Pick it as a recovery companion for wet soil, beaches and riverbeds. It is not a replacement for a full-size search detector, so pair its role with the depth and water rating of your main machine.
MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof: Best for switchable frequencies
- IP68 rating
- Pro-Switch technology
- Park, Field and Beach modes
- 30 discrimination segments
- 2.8 lb weight
The X-TERRA PRO combines an IP68 rating with Pro-Switch technology, making it a strong choice when you want to match the detector to changing terrain.
Pros
- IP68 rating
- Pro-Switch technology
- 30 discrimination segments
Cons
- It has fewer technology details than the Multi-IQ X-TERRA ELITE
- The 2.8 lb weight is not the lightest here
The X-TERRA PRO is the right match for hunters who want an IP68 detector with Pro-Switch technology. The system lets you switch frequencies to match the terrain, while the Park, Field and Beach modes give you ready-made starting points.
It has 30 discrimination segments and a pinpoint mode for narrowing a target before digging. Five audio modes, a control pod flashlight, red backlight display, backlit keypad and handgrip vibration add useful control in changing light and ground.
The detector weighs 2.8 lb, packs down to 25 inches and uses a 12 in search coil. Its interface is designed for both beginners and experienced users, but the switchable-frequency approach gives it more learning depth than the simplest models.
Choose the X-TERRA PRO when frequency control matters more than Multi-IQ. Choose the X-TERRA ELITE if you prefer simultaneous Multi-IQ technology across varied hunting areas.
Minelab GO-FIND 22 Ultra-Light Collapsible Metal Detector: Best for shallow shoreline trips
- 8 in waterproof coil up to 2 ft
- 2.2 lb weight
- Collapsible design
- 2 find modes
- 3 sensitivity levels
The GO-FIND 22 is a light, collapsible option for beginners and family outings where the waterproof coil will reach shallow water and shorelines.
Pros
- Lightest full-size detector here
- Collapsible design
- 8 in waterproof coil
Cons
- The coil is limited to shallow water
- The detector has an IP54 rating
The GO-FIND 22 is the lightest full-size detector in this group at 2.2 lb, and it folds for transport in luggage or a backpack. Its waterproof part is the standard 8 in hard-wired coil, which is rated for water up to 2 ft.
That makes it a better fit for shorelines, streams and other shallow locations than for deeper underwater detecting. The detector itself has an IP54 rating, so don't confuse the coil's water rating with full-detector submersion.
Two find modes, 3 sensitivity levels, 3 depth levels and 5 volume settings keep the controls simple. Large screen icons show signal strength and item type, and 2 camouflage skins are included.
Choose it for family outings, camping trips and beginner practice near shallow water. Its main limit is the 2 ft coil depth and the smaller 8 in search coil compared with the 10 in and 12 in coils in the higher-ranked picks.
Minelab Gold Monster 1000 Universal Metal Detector: Best for gold-focused ground hunting
- 45 KHz VLF
- 24-bit signal processor
- 10 x 6 in DD waterproof coil
- 5 in DD waterproof coil
- Lithium-ion battery and 8 AA batteries
The Gold Monster 1000 is aimed at gold-focused detecting with a 45 KHz VLF system and 2 waterproof search coils, but its IP54 rating makes it different from a fully submersible detector.
Pros
- 45 KHz operating frequency
- 2 waterproof search coils
- Lithium-ion battery included
Cons
- IP54 rating
- 7.2 lb weight
The Gold Monster 1000 is the specialist pick for gold-focused ground hunting, not the general-purpose choice for repeated underwater use. Its 45 KHz VLF system and 24-bit signal processor are designed around sensitivity to gold.
In daily use, that focus means you accept a narrower job in exchange for gold sensitivity. It is a better match for ground where gold is the main aim than for mixed park and beach hunting for coins and jewelry.
The kit includes a 10 x 6 in DD waterproof search coil and a 5 in DD waterproof search coil. The larger coil suits covering ground, while the smaller coil can suit tighter spaces and closer checking around targets.
It also includes headphones, a lithium-ion battery, 8 AA batteries and a lens cleaning cloth. Having 2 power options can help on longer trips, and the cloth is useful for keeping the display and controls clear.
The detector has an IP54 rating, so the waterproof coils do not make the full detector a submersible model. Treat the water limit as coil-centered, and keep the control unit out of deeper water.
At 7.2 lb, it is also heavier than the X-TERRA and Vanquish options here. That weight is a real trade-off on long walks, especially if you are crossing rough or wet ground.
Pick it when gold sensitivity and 2 coil choices matter more than an IP68 water rating. For general beach and shallow-water hunting, one of the fully waterproof models is a better fit.
MINELAB Vanquish 360 Fully-Automatic Lightweight Waterproof Metal: Best for automatic beach settings
- Multi-IQ technology
- IP68 rating
- Submersible up to 16 ft
- 2.6 lb weight
- 10-hour rechargeable battery
The Vanquish 360 gives beginners automatic Multi-IQ operation, an IP68 rating and submersion up to 16 ft in a lighter body.
Pros
- IP68 rating
- Multi-IQ technology
- 10-hour rechargeable battery
Cons
- Fewer detailed controls than the X-TERRA models
- The stated battery life is up to 10 hours
The Vanquish 360 is the best automatic option for hunters who want less setup before entering wet ground. Multi-IQ technology works across the detector's Park, Beach and All Metal modes without requiring you to choose frequencies.
That automatic approach suits beginners and busy hunters who want to start quickly. You spend less time learning frequency choices and more time sweeping the coil and listening for targets.
Its IP68 rating and stated submersion limit of up to 16 ft make it one of the clearest choices for submerged environments. The limit is stated for the detector system, so follow the maker instructions for seals, battery and connector care.
The 2.6 lb body is lighter than the X-TERRA models, and the included V10X 10 in Double-D coil is waterproof. A lighter machine is easier to carry across a beach or shoreline and easier to swing for longer sessions.
A built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous run time. Recharging avoids packing spare batteries for short outings, but you should charge it before a long day.
The controls are streamlined, which helps beginners start quickly but gives you fewer detailed controls than the X-TERRA models. That is the main trade-off if you like fine discrimination and many preset choices.
Choose it for automatic Multi-IQ operation, lighter handling and a clear deep-water rating. Choose the X-TERRA ELITE if you want 30 discrimination segments and more preset search options.
MINELAB Vanquish 340 Multi-Frequency Metal Detector: Best for simple multi-frequency hunting
- Multi-IQ technology
- 3 search modes
- Waterproof coil
- 2.6 lb weight
- Collapses to 30 in
The Vanquish 340 uses Multi-IQ and simple controls for Park, Field and Beach modes, while its waterproof coil supports wet-ground searching.
Pros
- Multi-IQ technology
- 3 search modes
- Collapsible 30 in length
Cons
- The detector has an IP54 rating
- The waterproof claim applies to the coil
The Vanquish 340 offers simple Multi-IQ hunting with 3 search modes: Park, Field and Beach. It weighs 2.6 lb and collapses to 30 inches, so it is easy to carry to a shoreline or field.
Its waterproof part is the search coil, while the detector has an IP54 rating. That makes it suitable for wet-ground searching and shallow water around the coil, but it is not the same water protection as the IP68 Vanquish 360.
In practice, keep the coil in shallow water only and keep the control unit dry. Wet sand, puddles and shoreline edges are a better match than wading with the full detector submerged.
The detector automatically selects settings for the soil, and automatic noise canceling helps keep operation simple. That can suit new users who want Multi-IQ without frequency or ground balance choices at the start.
Three volume settings and lag-free audio response add basic audio control. You can match sound level to your hearing and surroundings, which helps on a noisy beach or in wind.
Collapsing to 30 inches helps with storage in a car or closet. It also makes the detector easier to carry on short outings where you do not want a full-size shaft in the way.
Choose it when you want a light, easy multi-frequency detector and do not need full-detector submersion. If deeper water is part of your plan, move up to the Vanquish 360.
Minelab CTX 3030 Waterproof Metal Detector Special: Best for a bundled treasure setup
- 17 in Smart Coil
- 11 in DD Smart Coil
- Li-ion rechargeable battery
- 5 programs
- Headphones and wireless module included
The CTX 3030 bundle includes 2 coils, headphones, a wireless module, charging equipment and a Li-ion battery for underwater treasure hunting.
Pros
- 2 included search coils
- 5 programs
- Large bundled accessory set
Cons
- 8.8 oz listed item weight needs careful interpretation
- The product data gives an IP54 rating
The CTX 3030 bundle is built around a large accessory package for underwater treasure hunting. It includes a 17 in Smart Coil, an 11 in DD Smart Coil, coil cover, UR-30 headphones, a WM-10 wireless module, charging equipment, a Li-ion rechargeable battery and an armrest strap.
Five programs give you preset choices, while the LCD provides the main display. The bundle also includes a battery holder, belt clip, removable headphone module and universal AC wall adapter.
The product data gives the detector an IP54 rating, so check the exact water-use instructions before treating it like an IP68 detector. The package is better suited to an experienced hunter who values multiple included parts than to someone seeking the simplest setup.
Choose it when the 2 included coils and accessory bundle match your hunting plans. Choose an X-TERRA or Vanquish model if water rating and lighter handling are your first priorities.
MINELAB X-Terra Intrepid Metal Detector for Beginners: Best for new shallow-water users
- 10 in waterproof coil up to 3 ft
- 2 detect modes
- Smart Target ID display
- 2.7 lb weight
- 2 included 9V alkaline batteries
The X-TERRA Intrepid gives beginners a simple interface, 2 detect modes and a 10 in coil that can reach shallow water up to 3 ft.
Pros
- Beginner-focused controls
- 10 in waterproof coil
- 2 included 9V batteries
Cons
- The coil is limited to 3 ft
- It has fewer modes and discrimination segments than the X-TERRA models
The X-TERRA Intrepid is a beginner-focused detector with a 10 in concentric coil that is submersible up to 3 ft. Its simple interface, Smart Target ID display and adjustable sensitivity make it easier to learn than the more advanced X-TERRA models.
The display gives numbers that are easy to read while you learn. That visual feedback can help adults and teens connect what they hear with what the detector shows before digging.
Two primary hunting modes support different treasure types, while 4 discrimination segments help filter common junk such as nails or bottle caps. Fewer segments keep choices simple, but they also give less fine control than the 30-segment X-TERRA models.
Pinpoint mode narrows the target area before you dig. A tighter target area can mean smaller holes and less disturbance in parks and lawns.
The detector weighs 2.7 lb and collapses to 29.3 inches. That light, compact form suits short outings, car storage and shared use by adults and teens.
Two 9V alkaline batteries are included, while wired 3.5 mm headphones are compatible but not included. Alkaline batteries are easy to replace, but you should plan to bring headphones if you want private audio.
Choose it for parks, fields, trails, beaches and shallow water up to the coil's stated depth. Move to the Vanquish 360 or an IP68 X-TERRA model if you need deeper full-detector water protection.
Which Minelab waterproof detector has the best water rating?
The X-TERRA ELITE, X-TERRA PRO and Vanquish 360 have IP68 ratings in this group. The Vanquish 360 also states submersion up to 16 ft, while the X-TERRA PRO states waterproofing to 16 ft in its product description.
An IP68 rating is the clearest sign here that the full detector is built for more than wet grass or a waterproof coil. Still, follow the manufacturer's water-use instructions and keep connectors, batteries and charging equipment dry as directed.
The GO-FIND 22 and X-TERRA Intrepid use waterproof coils for shallow water. The GO-FIND 22 coil reaches up to 2 ft, and the X-TERRA Intrepid coil reaches up to 3 ft.
The Vanquish 340 and Gold Monster 1000 also include waterproof coils, but both detectors have IP54 ratings. The PRO-FIND 40 has full waterproof housing and an IP65 rating, but it is a pinpointer rather than a full-size detector.
For a broader waterproof metal detectors buying guide, compare full-detector ratings with coil-only water protection before you choose.
How should you choose a Minelab waterproof metal detector?
Choose by water depth first, then by control style, coil size and the ground where you hunt. A detector with a waterproof coil may be enough for wet sand or shallow stream edges, while regular submerged use calls for an IP68 model with a stated submersion limit.
For the most flexible all-terrain setup, the X-TERRA ELITE combines Multi-IQ, 6 search modes and 30 discrimination segments. The X-TERRA PRO is similar in weight and water rating but uses Pro-Switch technology for frequency changes.
For automatic operation, the Vanquish 360 uses Multi-IQ with Park, Beach and All Metal modes. Its 2.6 lb weight and up to 10-hour rechargeable battery run time also suit longer walks.
For beginners on a tighter learning curve, the GO-FIND 22 has 2 find modes and a 2.2 lb body. The X-TERRA Intrepid gives you a 10 in coil, 2 detect modes and a Smart Target ID display, with shallow-water coil use up to 3 ft.
Our guide to the best waterproof metal detector for beginners covers the simpler choices in more detail.
What else should you bring for wet detecting?
A waterproof pinpointer helps you recover a target after the main detector identifies the area. The PRO-FIND 40 adds Ferrous Tone ID, 5 sensitivity levels, a flashlight, holster and lanyard, so it is the clearest companion product in this group.
Use a coil cover or other protection only when it is made for your detector, and keep the search coil and shaft clear of sand before packing the machine away. The CTX 3030 bundle includes a coil cover, while the other product data does not confirm one.
Plan your recovery tools around the target area. A smaller coil can help in tight spaces, while a larger coil can cover more ground, but the product data here gives different coil sizes and does not mean one size is deeper in every soil type.
Before a wet outing, check the detector's water rating, the rated depth of the waterproof part and any manufacturer instructions. Do not treat an IP54 detector with a waterproof coil as a fully submersible machine.
What can you find with a Minelab waterproof detector?
A metal detector can search for coins, jewelry, relics and other metal targets in parks, fields, beaches, shorelines and shallow water. The What Can You Find With a Metal Detector? guide explains how target types and locations affect your setup.
Adjust your setup by place. Trashy park ground may need tighter discrimination, while a beach needs a mode for wet sand.
Intended use matters too. The Gold Monster 1000 is the specialist here, with its 45 KHz VLF system focused on gold sensitivity, while X-TERRA and Vanquish models suit varied all-terrain searching.
A general model supports coins, jewelry and relics across seasons. A specialist model asks you to accept limits outside its main job.
Detectors serve more than treasure hunting. Read [What Is a Metal Detector Used For?
The Basics](/what-is-a-metal-detector-used-for/) to compare recreation, recovery and other common uses.
Recovery work may value finding a known item quickly, while recreation values comfort and simplicity. Shallow shoreline and deeper submerged searching also need different water ratings, so check which part is rated for water before you plan an outing.
How do you use a waterproof Minelab detector safely?
Start in the correct search mode for your ground, then sweep the coil evenly and use pinpoint mode when the target area is narrow. Keep the coil parallel to the ground, move at a steady pace and dig carefully around the strongest signal.
For shallow-water models, keep the waterproof part within its stated depth. The GO-FIND 22 coil reaches up to 2 ft, and the X-TERRA Intrepid coil reaches up to 3 ft.
For IP68 models, check the manufacturer's instructions before submerging the detector. Dry the unit after wet use, remove sand and soil from the exterior and keep batteries and charging connections dry.
A small underwater detector may be easier to handle around rocks, narrow streams and crowded shorelines. See the best small underwater metal detectors for compact options and their intended water use.
Final verdict: which is the best Minelab waterproof metal detector?
The X-TERRA ELITE is the best Minelab waterproof metal detector for most hunters because it combines IP68 protection, Multi-IQ technology, 6 search modes and 30 discrimination segments. Pick the X-TERRA PRO if switchable frequencies matter more than simultaneous Multi-IQ.
The ELITE suits hunters moving between parks, fields and beaches. Its preset modes give a clear start, while discrimination segments control how much junk to accept or ignore.
Choose the Vanquish 360 for automatic operation, a 2.6 lb body and submersion up to 16 ft. It suits beginners who want Multi-IQ with less setup.
Choose the GO-FIND 22 or X-TERRA Intrepid for lightweight beginner use in shallow water. Their water protection centers on the coil, rated to 2 ft and 3 ft respectively.
The Vanquish 340 gives simple Multi-IQ hunting in Park, Field and Beach modes and collapses to 30 inches. Its IP54 rating means the coil is the water-ready part.
For gold-focused ground hunting, the Gold Monster 1000 offers a 45 KHz VLF system and 2 waterproof coils. Weigh its 7.2 lb weight and IP54 rating against its gold focus.
Add the PRO-FIND 40 as a recovery tool. Its Ferrous Tone ID, 5 sensitivity levels and waterproof housing help narrow targets after a main detector finds a signal.
For more on Minelab's advanced flagship line, read our Minelab Manticore metal detector reviews.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for all-terrain versatility
MINELAB X-Terra Elite All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for pinpointing wet targets
Minelab PRO-FIND 40 Waterproof Pinpointer Metal Detector
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for switchable frequencies
MINELAB X-Terra PRO All-Terrain Professional Fully Waterproof
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Which Minelab metal detector is fully waterproof?
The X-TERRA ELITE, X-TERRA PRO and Vanquish 360 have IP68 ratings in this comparison. The Vanquish 360 is also described as submersible up to 16 ft.
Other models here have waterproof coils, waterproof housings or product descriptions that need to be separated from full-detector water protection.
Can you use the Minelab Vanquish 340 underwater?
The Vanquish 340 has a waterproof coil and an IP54 detector rating. That supports wet-ground and shallow-water coil use, but it should not be treated as a fully submersible detector based on the information compared here.
What is the best Minelab waterproof metal detector for beginners?
The Vanquish 360 is the strongest beginner choice for deeper water use because it combines automatic Multi-IQ operation, an IP68 rating and submersion up to 16 ft. For shallow water and a lower-complexity setup, consider the GO-FIND 22 or X-TERRA Intrepid.
Is the Minelab PRO-FIND 40 a full metal detector?
The PRO-FIND 40 is a waterproof pinpointer, so it helps locate a target after a larger detector identifies an area. Its Ferrous Tone ID, 5 sensitivity levels and audio and vibration responses make it useful during recovery, but it does not replace a full-size search detector.
