Both the adults and kids can enjoy metal detecting adventures or hunting treasures. There are lots of detectors on the shelves today, some suitable for grownups while others are made for teens and children. So, how can you find the best metal detector for kids?
The following article looks at the best detectors that you can get for your kid or teen. We have divided them into two categories: metal detectors for kids of 4-9 years and 10+ years.
You can head to the relevant category and get a detector that is perfect for your child.
Jump To
- 1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
- 2. Fisher F22 Metal Detector
- 3. Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector
- 4. Teknetics Delta 4000 Metal Detector
- 5. Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver
- 6. Minelab X-TERRA 305 Metal Detector
- 7. Bounty Hunter Junior T.I.D
- 8. Bounty Hunter Gold Digger
- 9. Bounty Hunter BHJS Junior
- 10. Ground EFX MC1 Youth Metal Detector
The Best Metal Detectors for Kids
Below are the top 10 metal detectors for kids. They are easy to use, lightweight, can detect effectively, and are affordable.
Note: We start by reviewing products meant for 10+ years kids.
1. Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
Bounty Hunter TK4 is a straightforward children’s metal detector that they can operate even if they have never used one before. It is an entry-level product with a 6.7kHz operating frequency and three search modes.
The system is rugged to withstand frequent use in harsh conditions. You need to note that it is a motion metal detector that needs to be on the move to spot precious target.
The system has a built-in speaker that removes the need to use headphones to listen to the alert. With that said, the detector has a ¼-inch jack that you can use to insert the headphones – it is an excellent feature if your kid hunts in noisy places.
Everything about this device is streamlined, making it easy to use and comprehend. That involves having two knobs for controlling the various features of the system and dual audio tones.
It also has an analog meter that displays the signal strength that your child can use to determine the target’s size and depth. The system is not the lightest in the industry, but it only weighs 4.2 pounds.
It provides value for money considering its price, although it might not match more expensive products. As a kid’s product, the absence of ground balance means that it eliminated a significant source of frustration for beginners.
As noted, it only offers three adjustable settings, which are discrimination, search, and mode. It also has three search modes, including all-metal, tone, and full discrimination.
Key Specifications
- Design: weatherproof
- Product weight: 4.2 pounds
- Operation mode: 3 modes
- Audio discrimination: 2 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.7kHz
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Waterproof search coil
- In-built speaker
- Up to 30 hours of operation
- A ¼-inch headphone jack
Cons
- No ground balance feature
- No notch discrimination
2. Fisher F22 Metal Detector
Fisher F22 is a mid-range youth metal detector that is perfect for kids of 10+ years. It comes with a superb weatherproof design that makes it ideal for use in harsh conditions.
The F22 is among the leading detectors you can find out there, thanks to its affordable cost and features. These features include advanced detecting ability and easy to use knobs that kids can use without a hassle.
The system provides four operation modes that allow you to find artifacts, coins, jewelry, and custom targets. Another excellent feature is the 9-segment numerical and visual target identification that helps separate treasure from trash.
Although the F22 is not ideal for use underwater, it can function well in wet and dry conditions. That is because it is environmentally sealed for use in these conditions, including rain and sun.
The other notable feature is the 9-inch triangulated, oval concentric coil. It is narrower and smaller compared to what other metal detectors offer, making it ideal for targeting good stuff among trash and iron.
The coil also makes it possible for your kid to move the detector in tight spaces like between rocks. There is also a 2-digit number target ID ranging from 1-99, which ensures the user spots the specific metal on the surface.
Its battery has an indicator that can alert you when the power is running out. There are also menu category icons that let your kid adjust notch, sensitivity, and volume easily.
The detector also offers up to four tones, which are high, medium, low, and base. Your child can use them together with the target ID to enjoy a better result.
Read Our Full Review about this model, click here Fisher F22 metal detector
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 2.3 pounds
- Operation mode: 4 modes
- Audio discrimination: 4 Tone
- Operating frequency: 7.69kHz
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Iron discrimination feature
- Able to target specific metals
- Weatherproof design
- A narrower and smaller coil
Cons
- Not submersible
- Lots of complicated features
3. Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector
Garrett ACE 200 was designed to replace the ACE 150 and is an entry-level metal detector you can get for your family. It is an affordable and easy-to-use product that is recommended for all mature kids and beginners.
Do not be fooled by its entry-level nature as it comes with all the quality features of Garrett products. The metal detector also comes with a simple control box featuring clearly labeled buttons.
And you only see three buttons, which are power, sensitivity, and mode, making it easy to use. Its display scale ranges from 0-99 and makes it possible for your kid to target specific metals when doing the hunt.
Another excellent feature is the working frequency of 6.5kHZ that makes it easier to find jewelry and coins. That frequency combined with zero disc, jewelry, and coin modes makes it possible to filter your treasures.
The ACE 200 is not water-resistance – you should avoid using it even on wet grass. However, you can submerge the search coil a few inches in water, and it remains in top condition.
The metal detector produces up to three tones when hunting for precious treasures. They include the pulse width modulation, a low tone, and a high one.
One great thing is the kids get used to these audios quickly and ensures they do not keep on looking at the control box. It also comes with ground balancing that is preset in the factory – it works well for most soils.
Key Specifications
- Design: Not weatherproof
- Product weight: 2.75 pounds
- Operation mode: 3 modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.5kHz
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Offers up to three tones
- Clearly labeled buttons
- Easy to use
- Made to last for years
Cons
- Not weatherproof
- Ground balancing is preset
4. Teknetics Delta 4000 Metal Detector
Delta 4000 has developed a following since it hit the market due to its quality innovation, lightweight nature, and robust operation. It comes with advanced features that appeal to both beginners and professional users.
The metal detector is positioned as a powerful machine that is user friendly to ensure that even kids use it without a hassle. Its screen contains all the information you need to guarantee effective operation like mode settings, battery life meter, menu settings, and 0-99 digit target ID.
The Delta 4000 is visually attractive, coming in green and black color combination with black and silver lower/upper rods. Your kid might love the large display that shows sharp and clear variables and comes with red color.
Another great feature is the super-light nature of the metal detector, thanks to the rod system. Its lightweight design is also possible due to the ABS plastic material used to construct some of its parts.
The product also comes with a handgrip made of foam to allow comfortable handling. That foam allows for multiple grip options that lead to less time adjusting.
The handle angle is also excellent and can ensure your kid hunt treasures for hours without getting tired. There is also a friendly control housing that lets the user view all the buttons and access them easily.
It is an attractive metal detector you can find on the market. That can make it a hit with most kids and gives them the desire to hunt for treasures.
Read details information about Teknetics Delta 4000 Metal Detector
Key Specifications
- Design: Not weatherproof
- Product weight: 2.6 pounds
- Operation mode: 2 modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 7.8 kHz
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Has a 9V battery
- An attractive metal detector
- A lightweight product
- From a reputable brand
Cons
- The battery runs for only 25 hours
- Only two search modes
5. Bounty Hunter QSI Quick Silver
Bounty Hunter QSI offers some great features, including visual depth indicator and target identification, which you might not find in entry-level metal detectors. The digital target ID has 4-segment that can allow you to determine what is on the surface.
That can save you lots of time that you would have used digging up trash instead of the real treasure. The visual depth indicator helps you to figure out how deep the target is located.
One thing you should note is the system can easily detect metals up to 7-inch deep when if the conditions are right. That is a decent depth for entry-level machines.
Another notable feature is the discrimination that ensures eliminate junk and false signals with a push of a button. The discrimination is further enhanced by the three-tone audio settings.
Your kids can master the tones with ease when they become experienced after using the metal detector for days. That can mean an easy time when hunting for treasures.
The other superb feature is the ground balance ability. It comes preset by the manufacturing, removing the need for programming the system.
There is an 8-inch waterproof coil that you can change when it gets worn out, damaged, or ineffective. And you can read all the data on the easy-view LCD.
Your kids can swiftly learn how to use this machine and start hunting for treasure instantly. It also gives accurate results.
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 4 pounds
- Operation mode: 4 modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.6 kHz
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Easy-view LCD
- For beginner hunters
- Value for money
- Interchangeable waterproof coils
Cons
- Slightly heavy
- Preset ground balance
6. Minelab X-TERRA 305 Metal Detector
The Minelab X-TERRA 305 is an excellent metal detector with dozens of great features that make it stand out from other products. Although the system does not come with a graphic target ID, it is still ideal for use by older children.
You can easily pick between several metals using the multi-tone audio feature with multiple tones. It is an all-purpose device that your kid can use to find all types of treasures indoors or outdoors.
Another feature is the manual ground balance that allows the user to filter background noise. That gives your child peace of mind when looking for treasure in noisy or crowded areas.
It also offers a solid pinpoint and custom notching mode for efficient digging. What more, it easily discriminates iron to make it possible to remove junk – you will not dig up rust and nails.
The other notable feature is the concentric search coil that allows for up to 10-inch reach. Unlike other metal detectors out there, the operating frequency of X-TERRA 305 depends on the loop in use.
You can use the standard coil to perform all-purpose detecting or insert a specialized one for finding a specific treasure like gold. It is also a lightweight product that allows kids to use it for hours without getting tired.
The model also has a shorter shaft that allows children to look for treasures with ease. It provides value for money and can last for years thank to its durable construction.
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 1.3 pounds
- Operation mode: variable modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 7-18.75 kHz
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Variable frequency
- Lightweight design
- Easy-view display
- Can target specific treasures
Cons
- No headphone included
- Batteries not included
Note: The next four metal detectors are ideal for 4-9 years kids
7. Bounty Hunter Junior T.I.D
Bounty Hunter Junior T.I.D is a metal detector that you can get your children to take outside and hunt for treasures. It is an entry-level machine that can spark your kid’s metal detecting adventure.
The kids metal detector displays happy faces on its screen that can notify your child whether to dig or not. These images make it the perfect device for small children who cannot read, and they include a sad face, a happy face, and more icons.
Another superb feature of the device is the discrimination that is easy to turn on and off using a single button. It makes it the best metal detector for children as they can eliminate false signals for nails and junk.
The model is light enough to allow the user to carry it around with ease for hours without getting tired. It only weighs about 1.5 lbs., which is ideal for the little explorers when carrying it.
Its search coil is also small and lightweight, which makes it easy to swing as there is little weight. The 6-inch coil is also waterproof but not submersible in the water.
You can also adjust the metal detector from 19-inch to 31-inch to suit your kids need. It is a product that can keep your child going while you get tired faster using other types of detectors.
The machine provides 3-target identification, including coins and valuables, rings and desirable targets, and iron. It also sounds louder when the object is near.
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 1.5 pounds
- Operation mode: 3 modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.6 kHz
- Warranty: 12 months
Pros
- Easy to operate
- Compact and lightweight
- Comes with fun icons
- Fun to use
Cons
- Not made to last long
- For kids of up to six years
8. Bounty Hunter Gold Digger
Kids love to hunt treasures, and the Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector can make that easier. It features only two knobs that allow your children to learn how to use it quickly.
The first knob helps to control the sensitivity and power level while the other one allows your kid to eliminate the trash. Hence, your child can easily set the discrimination to avoid junk signals.
One superb feature is the headphones that make the beginners’ hunters feel like actual detectors. The headphones make it possible for the user to filter out noise in crowded areas.
Another feature is the 7-inch coil that is small and lightweight to ensure that your kid has an easy time when carrying the metal detector. There is also a sensitivity meter that helps the detectorist to assess the signal strength and decide whether to dig up or not.
The machine also has an all-metal motion mode that allows your child to find gold, silver, iron, and other metals. It also offers up to three audio tones that help junior users to determine if the signal sound comes from a treasure.
When it comes to power, the unit uses two 9V batteries that can provide energy for a long duration. It also boasts preset ground balance that minimizes the effect of minerals in the ground.
The system operates via 6.6 kHz frequency and is not affected by other metal detectors. That means you can take your professional metal detector and head out with your kid to hunt for treasures.
Read Our Details Review about this model Bounty Hunter Gold Digger Metal Detector
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 2.2 pounds
- Operation mode: 2 modes
- Audio discrimination: 3 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.6 kHz
- Warranty: 12 months
Pros
- Educational and fun
- Able to discriminate junks
- Adjustable length
- Light enough for little users
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Preset ground balance
9. Bounty Hunter BHJS Junior
Bounty Hunter BHJS gives kids metal detecting ability that can turn them into professionals in the future. It is a compact and lightweight model that children of up to nine years can carry with ease.
The system effectively detects coins resting 5-inch into the ground and vast treasures 3-foot from the surface. It also offers a discrimination feature that lets you remove the signal of unwanted metals to prevent wasting time.
There is also a target indicator meter that helps to measure the signal strength to let your child figure out how deep in the surface the treasure is hidden. The detector is also backed by a 12-month warranty that covers parts.
Another notable thing is the closed coil that is weather-resistance. What that means is your child get a system that is suitable for hunting treasures in shallow water.
The other notable feature is the lightweight nature of the metal detector to ensure your child uses it for long without getting tired. You can also have certainty that your kid can handle the metal detector with ease.
Although the batteries are not included, the system uses two 9V batteries and has a tested that can notify you when they need charging. That is a great feature that ensures the detector is always ready for use.
It is more affordable compared to other products in its class. You can have value for bucks when you choose this system for your kids.
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 1.5 pounds
- Operation mode: 2 modes
- Audio discrimination: 1 Tone
- Operating frequency: 6.6 kHz
- Warranty: 12 months
Pros
- Discrimination control
- Volume increase as the target gets closer
- Ergonomic design for comfort
- Detects treasures 3-feet deep
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Short-term warranty
10. Ground EFX MC1 Youth Metal Detector
Ground EFX MC1 is a machine designed for beginners and other youthful users. It uses the same electromagnetic tech found in other expensive models and comes from WGI Innovations, a reputable brand.
Your child can have an easy time when using the detector and have a great start as a beginner. Another notable thing is the straightforward and clear operation panel with only two dials.
The first dial controls the power while the second helps to eliminate junk signals by fine tuning your target. Your child might also love the precise target location that allows the user to determine the depth of the metal.
Another feature is the 6.5-inch coil that you can easily submerse in the water to about 24-inch. That means it is an excellent product for hunting treasure in multiple places, including the Beach, lakes, and streams.
The power of the metal detector makes it ideal for entry-level machine and quickly detect coins 5-inch deep. Your child can know when the treasure is near as the audio increases when you get closer.
Key Specifications
- Design: Weatherproof
- Product weight: 2.5 pounds
- Operation mode: 1 mode
- Audio discrimination: 1 tone
- Operating frequency: 6.6 kHz
- Warranty: 12 months
Pros
- Decent detection depth
- Audible speaker
- Simple control
- Easy to use
Cons
- Poor construction
- Basic functionality
Buying Guide of Best Kids Metal Detectors
Finding the best kids metal detectors can be difficult if you do not know how to go about it or smooth if you follow this guide. We have discussed how you should go about it.
- Choose a Reputable Brand
While there are hundreds of brands selling children metal detectors, choosing the most reputable one can mean having the freedom of mind. Good brands provide value for money by offering long term warranties of faulty devices or service.
Should such mishaps arise, you can be sure the manufacturer can take care of your kid’s metal detector. One more benefit of choosing a reputable brand is you can find lots of positive reviews from previous buyers.
- Kids Metal Detector Specifications
In terms of specifications, you need a gadget that can detect for precious coins, jewelry, and other metal. That means getting a capable coil of about 4-inch in diameter.
The handle should be comfortable in your child’s hand and small enough to fit the arm and wrists. Another thing is the shaft; your kid should adjust it without any hassle.
The build or body of the metal detector should be durable and tough to handle the reckless use of kids. That build needs to bring a balance between padding and aesthetics for appeal and comfort.
Another part of the specification is the control box; the metal detector should provide an LCD to show sensitivity and discrimination levels, target identification, signal strength, and battery level. That can lead to precision, convenience, and simple hunting.
It is also essential to find a product with safely inserted batteries to prevent harm.
- The Minimum Features
You should weigh the options when it comes to the features present in your kid metal detector. There are some features your child can do without, while others are a must.
Two must-have features are sensitivity and discrimination. You can find Very Low Frequency (VLF) devices for about $100 – anything less and you might waste your money and time.
The other must-have feature is ground-balance. You can get a manual or preset device, and all are effective.
You should also note the condition of the search coil in the device you wish to purchase. There are water-resistance and waterproof versions.
If possible, get a waterproof metal detector that can be submerged in water for hours without getting damaged.
- Additional Features
You now have the bare minimum of a child metal detector, but every brand offers some extra to attract buyers. Some metal detectors have headphones that can come in handy when your kid is hunting in crowded places.
The important thing is to choose extras that add value and not those that are affordable. For instance, a waterproof coil might come in handy when hunting at the Beach, while a GPS might not be necessary.
Things to Consider When Buying Best Kids Metal Detectors
There are other factors that you should consider when buying a metal detector for your child. They include:
Easy to Use: The machine you buy should be easy to use to suit your kid’s age. More advanced models are ideal for teens, while simple detectors are recommended for young people.
Although most metal detectors can be used by the whole family, you should get a model that your child can use without seeking help. That means finding a metal detector with clear sounds and simple controls.
Lightweight Design: It is vital to choose a lightweight metal detector as your child might carry it for hours while searching for treasures. The system should also have a comfortable handle that can fit perfectly on the kid’s palm.
Most of these products come with collapsible handles and have carry bags for smooth transportation and portability.
Easy to Read Screens: The screen should have a clear display and be kid-friendly – that would be easy to read. A confusing screen can make your child lose interest in metal hunting.
Some models use flashy emoticons and sound that can keep a four-year-old child entertained.
Highly Effective Metal Detectors: You need to choose a metal detector that can allow your child to find several types of treasures. That means selecting a susceptible product that can detect items buried deep in the surface.
However, such a machine might be complicated for children to use. Thus, choose a simple metal detector that detects all the metals, such as coins, jewelry, and others.
Budget-Friendly Product: You must consider your budget before you buy a metal detector. Most kid machines are entry-level detectors and should not cost you a lot of money.
With that said, you should buy the product that you can afford and the one that can last for years. Consider a metal detector that your children can continue to use as they grow up.
FAQ:
The following section has all the answers to questions that you might have about metal detectors for kids.
What Can Children Find with Metal Detectors for Kids?
Metal detectors for kids are suitable for children of all ages and offer high-quality detection. That means they can find all types of metals, including relics, gold, coins, jewelry, and even trash.
The items detected depends on several factors like the location, soil mineralization, detector depth setting, and many more. It is also critical that your kid knows how to use the machine properly to stand a chance of finding treasures.
Encourage your children to read the manual before going for a hunt. They can have an idea of how to go about it.
Where Should Kids Go Metal Detecting?
You can encourage your children to go almost anywhere to look for precious metals. However, the best place to go hunting is public places, where people lose lots of coins, jewelry, phones, and even keys.
They should head to the nearest park to detect under seating areas, benches, kiosks, and any other place people are active. It is also perfect for hunting in a playground where kids bury stuff and forget to pick them.
They should start looking for treasure at your backyard.
Are Metal Detectors for Kids Toys?
No. All the models we have reviewed are professional-standard metal detectors that are made for young users. While they might not have the advanced settings and features present on high-end machines, they provide successful hunts.
The vital thing to note is these models come with different features to suit your kid’s needs.
How Quickly Can My Child Outgrow Metal Detectors for Kids?
It can depend on several factors like the machine you buy, your kids’ age, and how enthusiastic they are about metal detecting. You should consider getting a detector with an adjustable shaft to ensure that it grows with your child.
Such a model is also ideal for kids of various ages. Besides the physical size, your child is unlikely to get bored by the feature of the entry-level metal detectors.
Can Metal Detector for Kids Detect Gold?
All metal detectors can find gold. The only problem is the VLF detectors are not effective in detecting metals in mineralized surfaces where there is plenty of gold.
Hence, most metal detectors for children are not perfect for finding gold.
Are Metal Detector for Kids Meant for Freshwater or Beach?
One great place to look for precious metals is the Beach. Most metal detectors for kids do not have “beach” mode or manual ground balance – they are not recommended for saltwater hunting.
These products are developed to work on dry sand, and you can use them at the Beach if you detect on the sand. The best detectors have waterproof coils that can function in shallow freshwater.
However, they do not have waterproof control boxes, and they can get damaged if your child splashes water on them.
How Much Does a Metal Detector for Kid Cost?
The price varies depending on various factors like brand, model, durability, features, and others. You can get a model to suit your budget and one with great features.
Q: What Can Children Find with Metal Detectors for Kids?
A: Metal detectors for kids are suitable for children of all ages and offer high-quality detection. That means they can find all types of metals, including relics, gold, coins, jewelry, and even trash.
The items detected depends on several factors like the location, soil mineralization, detector depth setting, and many more. It is also critical that your kid knows how to use the machine properly to stand a chance of finding treasures.
Encourage your children to read the manual before going for a hunt. They can have an idea of how to go about it.
Q: Where Should Kids Go Metal Detecting?
A: You can encourage your children to go almost anywhere to look for precious metals. However, the best place to go hunting is public places, where people lose lots of coins, jewelry, phones, and even keys.
They should head to the nearest park to detect under seating areas, benches, kiosks, and any other place people are active. It is also perfect for hunting in a playground where kids bury stuff and forget to pick them.
They should start looking for treasure at your backyard.
Q: Are Metal Detectors for Kids Toys?
A: No. All the models we have reviewed are professional-standard metal detectors that are made for young users. While they might not have the advanced settings and features present on high-end machines, they provide successful hunts.
The vital thing to note is these models come with different features to suit your kid’s needs.
Q: How Quickly Can My Child Outgrow Metal Detectors for Kids?
A: It can depend on several factors like the machine you buy, your kids’ age, and how enthusiastic they are about metal detecting. You should consider getting a detector with an adjustable shaft to ensure that it grows with your child.
Such a model is also ideal for kids of various ages. Besides the physical size, your child is unlikely to get bored by the feature of the entry-level metal detectors.
Q: Can Metal Detector for Kids Detect Gold?
A: All metal detectors can find gold. The only problem is the VLF detectors are not effective in detecting metals in mineralized surfaces where there is plenty of gold.
Hence, most metal detectors for children are not perfect for finding gold.
Q: Are Metal Detector for Kids Meant for Freshwater or Beach?
A: One great place to look for precious metals is the Beach. Most metal detectors for kids do not have “beach” mode or manual ground balance – they are not recommended for saltwater hunting.
These products are developed to work on dry sand, and you can use them at the Beach if you detect on the sand. The best detectors have waterproof coils that can function in shallow freshwater.
However, they do not have waterproof control boxes, and they can get damaged if your child splashes water on them.
Q: How Much Does a Metal Detector for Kid Cost?
A: The price varies depending on various factors like brand, model, durability, features, and others. You can get a model to suit your budget and one with great features.
Final Verdict
The best metal detector for kids can be a handy machine that can ensure your children get outdoors and hunt for treasure. We have reviewed the top models on the market today to give a better start when searching for one.