9 Best Waterproof Metal Detector for Kids (November 2026)
The best waterproof metal detectors for kids include the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Kids Metal Detector for simple beginner hunts, the Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for the lightest starter kit, and the SUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation for animated treasure hunts.
On this page (4 sections)
The best waterproof metal detector for kids is the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger for simple beginner use, while the National Geographic Starter Kit is lighter and the SUNPOW MD20 adds a playful display and kit tools. Choose by waterproof limits, child fit and control-box care.
A waterproof coil is not the same as a fully waterproof detector. Most products here protect the search coil, while the display and control box need to stay dry.
That distinction matters most at beaches, streams and wet parks, where a coil may meet shallow water while the handles and screen stay above it. Read the stated limit for the coil itself, and do not treat a splash resistant stem as permission to submerge the whole unit.
Fit matters just as much because a detector that is too long or too heavy will tire a child before the first real find. A short adjustable stem, a light body and a comfortable grip help a young user keep the coil level and move at a steady pace.
Controls also shape the first hunt, since simple alerts are easier to learn than a screen full of settings. Some models add discrimination or pinpoint modes for older children, while simpler models focus on a clear beep and a basic display.
Depth claims need a calm check as well, because soil, target size and ground conditions change what any detector can find. Treat listed depths as a guide for shallow finds in suitable ground, not as a promise for every yard or beach.
For a broader starting point, see our guide to the best metal detector for kids.
A good first choice is the one a child can carry, understand and look after with an adult nearby. Water protection, fit and simple operation should be weighed together before any other feature.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple beginner huntsBounty Hunter Gold Digger Kids Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for the lightest starter kitBlue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for animated treasure huntsSUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itDetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids
Best for growing kids and target modes - 5
Check itRM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Kids
Best for family-size adjustment - 6
Check itGoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Best for older kids and adults - 7
Check itBlue Marble National Geographic Metal Detector for Kids
Best for pinpoint digging - 8
Check itSUNPOW Metal Detector for Kids
Best for three search modes - 9
Check itOMMO Kids Metal Detector with Funny LCD
Best for rechargeable play
The best waterproof metal detectors for kids
These picks are ordered by score, with the highest scores first. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you are shopping for.
Use that order as a starting point rather than a fixed rank for every family. The best fit depends on the child height, the ground to be searched and how much water the coil will meet.
Parents may also want to check what is included in the box, since a digging tool, a carry bag or headphones can change how ready a kit feels on the first outing. A lighter model may suit a younger child, while a longer stem may serve an older child who is still growing.
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Kids Metal Detector: Best for simple beginner hunts
- Waterproof 7-inch coil
- 2.2 lb lightweight design
- Adjustable sensitivity and trash elimination
- Headphone jack and speaker
The Gold Digger keeps the basic controls clear while adding adjustable sensitivity and trash elimination. Its waterproof coil suits outdoor hunts, but the control box still needs normal care around water.
Pros
- Lightweight beginner design
- Trash elimination
- Headphones included
Cons
- Waterproof protection is specified for the coil
- Battery powered
The Bounty Hunter Gold Digger is the strongest choice when a child needs a straightforward detector for coins, jewelry, relics and gold. Its adjustable sensitivity and trash eliminator help separate a beginner-friendly search from a sweep that responds to every nail, foil piece or bottle cap.
The waterproof coil suits beaches, parks, trails and mineralized soil, but the waterproof detail applies to the coil. Keep the control area dry and treat the detector as an outdoor tool rather than equipment for underwater use.
The product title describes a lightweight beginner detector, and the data gives a 2.2 lb weight in the title. A padded grip, adjustable stem, headphone jack, speaker and included headphones give families more ways to manage sound during a hunt.
Choose it when simple controls and trash elimination matter most. The 7-inch coil and stated detection depth of up to 6 inches make it a practical fit for small backyard or park searches.
Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit: Best for the lightest starter kit
- 1.2 lb detector
- 7.4-inch coil waterproof up to 4 inches
- Adjustable arm
- Trowel and Learning Guide included
This National Geographic starter kit is a strong fit for younger users who need low weight and simple alerts. The included trowel and Learning Guide make it ready for a first outdoor activity.
Pros
- Lightweight 1.2 lb design
- Trowel included
- Adjustable arm
Cons
- Coil waterproofing is limited to 4 inches
- Detection depth is listed up to 4 inches
The Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit is the lightest-feeling option in this group, with a 1.2 lb design, adjustable arm and comfort grip. It is aimed at children ages 8–12 and keeps the first setup simple with LED and audio alerts.
Its 7.4-inch dual coil is waterproof up to 4 inches and can detect objects up to 4 inches deep. That makes it suitable for shallow beach and park searches, but it does not support the same stated depth as some larger or more advanced picks.
The kit includes a heavy-duty trowel and full-color Learning Guide. Those extras help a child move from detecting to careful digging and learning about the history and science of the activity.
Choose this model for a young detectorist who values low weight and a ready-to-use starter kit. For more choices from the same brand, compare the best National Geographic metal detector for kids.
SUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation: Best for animated treasure hunts
- Waterproof search coil
- 23.6 to 27.6 inch adjustable stem
- 1.24 lb design
- Shovel, rake and bag included
The SUNPOW MD20 adds animated bones to the LED screen, a short adjustable stem and a lightweight body for children ages 6–12. Its sealed coil handles splashes, while the control box must stay dry.
Pros
- Lightweight 1.24 lb design
- Shovel, rake and bag included
- 9-hour battery life
Cons
- Control box is not waterproof
- Stem range is shorter than some picks
The SUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation is best for children who stay engaged when the detector feels like a game. Cartoon bones dance on the LED screen when metal is found, and one-button operation keeps the basic routine clear: power on, sweep and dig.
The stem adjusts from 23.6 to 27.6 inches, and the product data gives a weight of about 1.24 lb. That short range and light body fit the stated 6–12 age group better than the longer adult-size models.
The sealed search coil handles water splashes, wet sand and muddy gardens, but the control box must stay dry. The kit includes a plastic shovel, rake, drawstring bag and a 9V battery, with an average battery life of 9 hours.
Choose it for playful outdoor hunts where light weight and included tools matter. The animation may be more valuable than advanced target controls for a child starting out.
DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids: Best for growing kids and target modes
- 8-inch waterproof coil
- 30 to 41 inch adjustable length
- 3 detection modes
- Backpack, earphone, shovel, rake and 2 batteries included
DetectTrek gives taller children more room to grow and offers three detection modes for sorting target types. The complete kit includes digging tools, an earphone, a backpack and 2 9V batteries.
Pros
- 30 to 41 inch adjustment
- 3 detection modes
- Complete kit
Cons
- Control box is not waterproof
- Recommended outdoor use only
DetectTrek suits children who need a detector that can grow with them. Its adjustable length runs from 30 to 41 inches, and the 8-inch coil is described with an IP68 waterproof rating.
The three detection modes give a child more control over targets. The first detects most metal objects, while the other modes can reject ferrous targets or low-conductor non-ferrous targets.
Use those settings as a learning tool, not as a promise that every target will be identified correctly.
The complete kit includes a backpack, earphone, plastic shovel, rake and 2 9V batteries. DetectTrek gives a typical maximum depth of about 4 inches for US coins under suitable soil conditions.
The control box is not waterproof, and the instructions recommend outdoor use. Keep the coil parallel to the ground, check the cable and battery before starting, and keep other detectors about 6 meters away to reduce interference.
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Kids: Best for family-size adjustment
- 7.4-inch waterproof coil
- 24 to 35 inch adjustable stem
- LCD, buzzer and vibration sound
- Carry bag, shovel, rake and guide included
The RM RICOMAX works for children and adults who need a broad 24 to 35 inch adjustment range. Its LCD, buzzer and vibration sound provide several ways to notice a target.
Pros
- Adjustable for children and adults
- Carry bag and tools included
- LCD and vibration alerts
Cons
- Waterproof wording excludes the screen
- 2 lb weight is higher than the lightest picks
The RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Kids is a useful family pick because its stem adjusts from 24 to 35 inches. That range can work for children and adults sharing one detector, while the foldable coil helps with travel.
The 7.4-inch search coil and adjustable stem are waterproof, but the screen is excluded from that protection. A buzzer, vibration sound, LCD and signal symbol give several alerts when a target is nearby.
The package includes a carry bag with two front pockets, a sand shovel, a small rake and a User Guide. At 2 lb, it is still manageable for many children, though it is heavier than the lightest National Geographic and SUNPOW options.
Choose it when family sharing matters more than the lowest weight. Its 4-inch working distance gives a realistic expectation for shallow finds rather than deep searching.
The wider adjustment range also helps when a child grows between outings or when an adult wants to try a quick sweep. Set the stem so a child can keep the coil parallel to the ground without stooping or lifting the shoulders.
Care routines stay simple with this model, since the coil and stem can meet wet ground while the screen needs to stay dry. Wipe sand and mud from the coil after use, let it dry before storage and keep the bag zipped so the small tools stay together.
For a younger child who needs the lightest possible body, a lower weight model may be a better match. For a family that wants one detector to cover several heights, this shared range is the main appeal.
GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids: Best for older kids and adults
- IP68 waterproof search coil
- 39.3 to 51.3 inch adjustable stem
- All Metal and Disc modes
- Bag, shovel, earphones and 2 batteries included
GoGonova is sized for older children who may share a detector with adults. Its long adjustment range, backlit LCD and two operating modes favor more involved hunts.
Pros
- Adult-to-child adjustment range
- Disc mode
- Earphones and digging tool included
Cons
- 3.8 lb weight
- Control box is not waterproof
GoGonova is the better fit for an older child who may use the detector with an adult. Its stem adjusts from 39.3 to 51.3 inches, and the large range makes it less child-specific than the shorter models.
All Metal mode responds to metal targets, while Disc mode helps reject unwanted metal. The backlit LCD is useful in dim light, and the kit includes a detection bag, multifunctional shovel, anti-noise earphones and 2 9V batteries.
The search coil is described as IP68 waterproof, while the control box is not waterproof. The product details also describe an 8-inch coil and detection up to 8 inches underground, so keep those claims separate from the longer 13-inch coil value shown in another data field.
At 3.8 lb, it is the heaviest option here. Choose it for a taller user who wants adult-style adjustment and discrimination, not for a small child who needs the lightest possible detector.
Blue Marble National Geographic Metal Detector for Kids: Best for pinpoint digging
- 7.4-inch waterproof dual coil
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Pinpoint function and 3 modes
- Trowel and Learning Guide included
This National Geographic model adds pinpoint mode for narrowing a target before digging. It suits children who are ready for more control than a basic detector provides.
Pros
- Pinpoint function
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Trowel and Learning Guide included
Cons
- Waterproof depth is not specified
- Product data gives different weight values
The Blue Marble National Geographic Metal Detector for Kids is the best choice here for pinpoint digging. Its pinpoint function helps narrow a target after a wider search, which can reduce unnecessary digging in sand or loose soil.
The 7.4-inch dual coil is waterproof, and adjustable sensitivity plus 3 detection modes give children more ways to explore. The detector can find objects up to 6 inches deep according to the product details.
Its telescoping arm adjusts in length, and the included trowel and Learning Guide support a complete activity. The data contains different weight values, so use the actual unit in hand as the final comfort check before a long outing.
Choose this model when a child is ready to learn target location and sensitivity. If brand comparison is your next step, see the guide to best National Geographic metal detectors for kids.
SUNPOW Metal Detector for Kids: Best for three search modes
- Waterproof search coil
- 32 to 40 inch adjustable stem
- All Metal, DISC and PINPOINT modes
- Backpack, shovel, rake and 9V battery included
The SUNPOW OTMD10 gives children three ways to search, reject unwanted targets and narrow a find. Its light body and included tools suit beach, park and stream outings.
Pros
- Three detection modes
- 1.32 lb weight
- Backpack and tools included
Cons
- IP65 protection is less specific than an immersion rating
- Coil size data differs between fields
The SUNPOW Metal Detector for Kids gives children 3 ways to search: All Metal, DISC and PINPOINT. That combination lets a child begin with broad detection, reject some unwanted targets and then narrow the location before digging.
Its stem adjusts from 32 to 40 inches, and the product data gives a 1.32 lb weight. The waterproof search coil suits beaches, parks, streams and forests, while the included backpack, child-sized shovel, rake and 9V battery make transport easier.
The product includes an LCD and sound and light signals. The stated protection is IP65, which gives less specific water information than the IP68 models in this roundup, so keep water exposure limited to the coil and follow the instructions.
Choose it for children who want more modes without moving to an adult-size detector. The 3-mode layout also gives parents a simple way to explain search, reject and pinpoint steps.
OMMO Kids Metal Detector with Funny LCD: Best for rechargeable play
- IP67 waterproof 6.5-inch coil
- 28.3 to 39.4 inch adjustable stem
- 18-plus-hour rechargeable battery
- Shovel, rake and USB cable included
OMMO replaces disposable batteries with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and adds a puppy animation to the LCD. It is recommended for children ages 3–12, with a waterproof coil but a non-waterproof control box.
Pros
- Rechargeable battery
- 18-plus-hour claimed use
- Lightweight 1.8 lb body
Cons
- Control box is not waterproof
- Smallest coil in this roundup
The OMMO Kids Metal Detector with Funny LCD is the rechargeable pick for children ages 3-12. Its puppy and balls animation adds visual feedback, while the Type-C USB cable avoids regular battery replacement.
The 6.5-inch search coil has an IP67 waterproof rating, and the stem adjusts from 28.3 to 39.4 inches. OMMO says the rechargeable lithium-ion battery can run for more than 18 hours after a full charge.
The control box is not waterproof, so only the coil should go near wet sand or shallow water. The kit includes a plastic shovel, plastic rake and USB cable, and the detector weighs 1.8 lb.
Choose OMMO for younger children who enjoy animated feedback and rechargeable power. For older children who need a longer stem, compare the best metal detectors for kids ages 8-12.
The rechargeable design suits families who do not want to keep spare batteries for weekend outings. Charging through the included cable also makes it easier to prepare the detector the night before a park or beach trip.
The smaller 6.5-inch coil suits lighter sweeping and closer target checks. It may cover ground more slowly on a wide beach, but a small child can often control it with less effort.
The adjustable stem gives useful room for growth across the stated age range. Set it low enough for a younger child to sweep standing upright, then lengthen it as height changes.
Keep the control box clear of water despite the waterproof coil rating. After a wet outing, dry the coil, check the cable connection and store the tools away from the stem.
For a child who likes visual feedback and a ready to charge system, this is a friendly starter option. For a taller child who needs a longer reach, a model with a higher maximum stem length may fit better.
How to choose a waterproof metal detector for kids
The best waterproof metal detector for kids should match the child's height, the coil's water limit and the kind of ground you plan to search. A high IP rating helps, but it does not make a non-waterproof control box safe underwater.
Does waterproof mean the whole detector can go underwater?
No. In this roundup, waterproof language usually applies to the search coil, and several products clearly say the control box is not waterproof.
Keep the screen and control box above water. Use the coil only within its stated protection or depth limit, and dry the detector after a wet outing before storage.
Which fit works for different children?
A short adjustable stem is usually easier for a smaller child to control. The SUNPOW MD20 adjusts from 23.6 to 27.6 inches, while the RM RICOMAX reaches 35 inches and DetectTrek reaches 41 inches.
Longer ranges suit older children or shared family use. GoGonova extends to 51.3 inches, but its 3.8 lb weight makes it a poor choice for a small child.
Are IP67 and IP68 useful for beach searches?
They can make water protection easier to compare, but an IP rating still applies to the part identified by the product. DetectTrek, GoGonova and OMMO describe IP-rated coil protection, while other products use plain waterproof-coil wording.
Beach sand can also affect signals. Start in a clear area, sweep slowly, keep the coil parallel to the ground and use DISC mode when the detector offers it.
What should be included in a kids detector kit?
A kit is more useful when it includes a digging tool and a way to carry the detector. The National Geographic Starter Kit includes a trowel and Learning Guide, while SUNPOW, DetectTrek, RM RICOMAX and OMMO include combinations of shovels, rakes, bags or backpacks.
Headphones can help in noisy places, but children should still stay aware of adults, bikes, waves and other outdoor hazards. Read our guide to what can you find with a metal detector? for a realistic starting list of finds.
A digging tool matters because the alert only marks a spot. Careful digging turns that alert into a find without tearing up the ground, and teaches patience since a child learns to check the signal again before lifting soil.
A bag or backpack keeps tools together and makes it easier to carry a detector to a park, beach or trail. It also gives a place to store a find, a towel or a snack, which can keep a young user focused during a longer outing.
Headphones are useful where wind, waves or crowds make the sound hard to hear. An adult should still watch the surroundings, because a child with covered ears may not hear a call or warning.
The Learning Guide adds a useful next step after the first beep. It can turn a simple search into a short lesson about history, science and careful searching.
Before buying, check that tools match the ground you plan to visit. A plastic shovel suits sand and loose soil, while harder ground may need an adult to handle digging.
Also check the power source and any included batteries or charging cable, since a ready to use kit saves time on the first day. The right kit lets a child carry the detector, hear the alert, dig in the right place and pack everything away without help at every step.
How should a child use and care for the detector?
Start outdoors in an open area, adjust the stem so the child can sweep comfortably and keep the coil parallel to the ground. Move slowly, listen for the alert and dig carefully with the included tool when the signal stays in one place.
Keep other detectors apart when possible because nearby units can interfere. DetectTrek recommends about 6 meters between detectors, and says to check the cable and battery before use.
Never treat the control box as waterproof unless the product specifically says it is. Wipe dirt from the coil, dry wet parts before storage and remove or replace batteries according to the product instructions.
A short practice sweep helps a child learn the sound of a real target before searching a busy beach or park. Let the child pass the coil over a coin on the ground, then move it away and listen for the signal to stop.
Teach a slow side to side motion at a steady height, since fast or tilted sweeping can make alerts sound unclear. An adult can walk alongside at first and repeat the sweep when the signal seems to fade.
When a signal repeats in one spot, pause and sweep across it from a different angle to check the location. That extra check can save digging in the wrong place and helps a child learn patience.
Digging should stay careful and shallow at first, with small scoops and a check of the soil after each scoop. Fill any hole back in neatly, leave the area tidy and follow local rules for parks, beaches and protected ground.
Battery and cable checks belong in the routine before leaving home, because a flat battery can end a hunt early. Charge a rechargeable unit or fit fresh batteries, make sure the cable is seated, the coil is secure and stem locks are tight, then confirm the display and sound work.
Near water, keep the control box high and dry while the coil stays within its stated limit. After the hunt, wipe the coil as the instructions allow, dry it fully and store the detector away from damp sand in a bag or on a dry shelf.
If headphones are used, keep volume low and maintain eye contact so directions and safety reminders stay clear. A calm adult routine makes the activity safer and more fun, so set up together, search together, dig carefully and pack away together.
Which waterproof metal detector for kids should you choose?
Pick the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger for simple beginner controls, adjustable sensitivity and trash elimination. Pick the Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Kit when low weight, a trowel and a Learning Guide matter most.
Choose SUNPOW MD20 for animated feedback and a short child-sized stem. Choose DetectTrek or RM RICOMAX for a taller child who needs more adjustment, and choose GoGonova when an older child will share the detector with an adult.
For wet searches, always confirm which part is waterproof and how far it can enter water. A waterproof coil helps with splashes and wet ground, but careful handling keeps the display and control box dry.
For younger children, low weight and a short stem are often the best guide, because comfort affects how long a child can search. A light detector that a child can sweep at ground level will teach better habits than a heavier model held at the wrong height.
For older children, extra modes and a longer stem can keep the activity interesting as skills grow. Discrimination, pinpoint functions and adjustable sensitivity give a child more to learn, while a longer range prevents the detector from being outgrown too quickly.
For beach trips, check the coil rating and keep the control box above wet sand and shallow water. Sweep slowly, keep the coil parallel and use a digging tool that suits sand rather than hard soil.
For parks and backyards, simple controls and trash elimination may matter more than a high water rating. Rechargeable power is practical for families who prefer fewer disposable batteries, and kit contents should also shape the final choice.
Price, depth and features should be weighed only after fit, water limits and ease of use are settled. A detector that suits the child, the place and the water nearby will give the most rewarding search.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for simple beginner hunts
Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Kids Metal Detector
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for the lightest starter kit
Blue Marble National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for animated treasure hunts
SUNPOW Kids Metal Detector with Treasure Animation
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best waterproof metal detector for kids?
The Bounty Hunter Gold Digger is the best waterproof metal detector for kids who need simple beginner controls, adjustable sensitivity and trash elimination. Its waterproof coil supports outdoor use, and its lightweight design includes headphones.
For a very light starter kit, consider the National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit.
Can kids put a metal detector underwater?
Usually, no. The products here specify waterproof search coils, while several clearly state that the control box is not waterproof.
Keep the control box above water, use only the coil within its stated limit, and follow the product instructions before searching near streams, wet sand or shallow water.
What waterproof rating should a kids metal detector have?
A higher IP rating gives clearer protection information, but the rating still needs to match the part that gets wet. DetectTrek, GoGonova and the National Geographic models include IP-rated details, while other products describe a waterproof coil without giving a full submersion depth.
Check the coil and control-box limits separately.
Are waterproof metal detectors for kids good for beaches?
Yes, a waterproof coil can help with wet sand and beach edges, but saltwater and mineral-rich sand can affect signals. Sweep the coil parallel to the ground, keep the control box dry, and use discrimination where available.
An adult should handle digging rules and supervise children near water.
What age is best for a kids metal detector?
Choose by fit and weight rather than age alone. OMMO recommends ages 3–12, SUNPOW MD20 is sized for ages 6–12, and several models are aimed at ages 8–12.
Compare the adjustable stem with the child's height, then choose controls they can understand.
