Metal detectors have undoubtedly become more advanced over time. Some brands can identify the specific type of metal one has and its particular location. Among many kinds of metal detectors in the market, many users prefer the Minelab CTX3030 and Equinox 800.
Choosing between these two metal detectors can be an uphill task. Understanding the difference between them is crucial to determine which is best for your needs. Read on to learn more about Minelab CTX 3030 vs Equinox 800.
Minelab Equinox 800
The Equinox 800 prides itself on being solidly built, lightweight, and portable, enabling use for more extended periods. It is also adaptable to all ground types and conditions, such as beaches, parks, fields, and a dedicated gold mode. It also has a 12-hour battery life.
This type of metal detector is easy to use thanks to 8 custom search profiles and multi-IQ frequency technology options. It also has several detection modes and operating frequencies at a push of a button. Finally, it displays large target ID numbers on the LCD screen.
Here are some features of the Equinox 800:
Wired and Wireless Audio
The Equinox 800 comes equipped with wireless audio Wm 08 to provide metal detectorists with greater freedom in its usage. This metal detector is also compatible with any Bluetooth headphones with aptx technology. You can also connect a 3.5-headphone jack with this metal detector.
Water Resistant
The Equinox 800 is fully submersible up to a depth of 10 feet, making it suitable for sessions at streams, lakes, and rivers. It also works excellently on sandy, saltwater beaches and will function optimally in the rain.
8 Recovery Levels
The Equinox 800 comes with eight recovery modes or speeds. This is the rate at which the metal detector processes the signal under the coil. A slower recovery speed means the sensor uses more processing power to detect deeper signs, but you’ll have to reduce your sweep speed too.
A faster recovery speed means a shorter signal and faster signal processing. The tradeoff of using this mode is that you’ll lose significant depth based on how high the setting is.
Multi-IQ Technology
This technology combines the benefits of VFLEX and FBS to create a wide-band multi-frequency signal. This makes the metal detector more responsive to high-frequency targets.
User Interface
Equinox 800 user interface makes it easier to control every setting with ease. You can view the battery status, change between frequencies and adjust functions such as threshold target or ground balance.
Minelab CTX 3030
The Minelab CTX 3030 was released in 2012 and has been considered the ultimate metal detector due to its numerous features. Its design ensures that most weight sits behind the armrest, making it easier to carry. However, it’s significantly heavier than the Equinox 800.
This metal detector is also suitable on all terrain and has exceptional ground balancing capabilities. It has a full-color LCD screen that quickly helps toggle map display, navigation tools, and other settings.
Here are more features of the Minelab CTX 3030:
Smartfind 2Discrimination Technology
The Smartfind 2 feature significantly improves the metal detector’s FeCo discrimination to analyze the target’s Conductive (Co) and Ferrous (Fe) properties. This gives the detector superior target identification to determine which targets to focus on and what to discard. The technology also makes it easier to locate different targets simultaneously.
Wireless Audio Capabilities
This metal detector comes with a WM 10 wireless module enabling you to use Bluetooth headphones that give the user greater freedom during sessions. You could also use any pair of Bluetooth headphones you may have.
Water and All-Terrain Proof
One of the CTX 3030’s standout features is its versatility. This makes it suitable for all-terrain, whether on dry land, sandy beaches, rainy days, or fully submerged underwater up to 10 feet. It also has excellent ground-canceling abilities that make it suitable for filtering mineralized soil.
Multi-Language
The CTX 3030 offers a variety of nine languages, including English, Turkish, Polish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, French, Spanish, and German, adding to its versatility.
GPS Locating and PC Mapping
With GPS locating, you can track where you’ve been through the map screen and navigation tool. PC mapping helps you upload or share your detection settings, readings, and location to your computer via the Xchange 2 application. This gives you a better view of the places you had your sessions.
Ergonomically Designed
The CTX 3030 might be heavier than the Equinox 800, but it’s designed to have its battery weight behind the armrest. This makes the detector easier to hold for more extended periods. It’s also fully adjustable to your specifications.
Minelab CTX 3030 Vs. Equinox 800, Which one’s Better?
Minelab CTX 3030 and Equinox 800 metal detectors have varied strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, your choice narrows down to what features you want in a metal detector.
Equinox 800 should be your choice if you want simplicity and portability because it’s much lighter than the CTX 3030.
If you want a metal detector with various features, look no further than CTX 3030. It has several features that are suitable for different situations.
If you intend to save on your expenses, you should consider Equinox 800. Its limitation on features makes it cheaper than the CTX 3030. It’s best suited for beginner users.
Overall, Minelab CTX 3030 is the better option when compared with Equinox 800. It’s better than Equinox 800 in terms of depth, features, and design, despite its higher price and heaviness.
The Lowdown
A solidly built metal detector takes the guesswork out of your security search sessions and helps you quickly find what you’re looking for. The Minelab CTX 3030 and the Equinox 800 are some of the best detectors on the market. However, with the analysis provided in this post, you’re best suited to make the best decision among these two.