7 Best Metal Detectors Under $200 (October 2026)
The best metal detectors under 200 dollars include the SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector for a portable all-around kit, the Minelab X-Terra Voyager for clear target IDs, and the Garrett ACE 200 for simple first hunts.
On this page (5 sections)
- How we chose the best metal detectors under 200 dollars
- The 7 best metal detectors under 200 dollars in detail
- What should you compare before buying a metal detector under 200 dollars?
- Does a waterproof coil mean the whole detector is waterproof?
- Which metal detector under 200 dollars should you choose?
The SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector is our top choice for shoppers seeking the best metal detector under 200, thanks to its 2.7 lb weight, backlit target ID, and waterproof DD coil. It also comes with headphones, a shovel, and a backpack.
Compare current costs before buying, since this guide does not confirm that every pick falls within your budget. Look at the controls and whole kit as closely as the coil.
A detector with a waterproof coil may still have a control box that must stay dry. Check which parts can enter water before a shoreline hunt.
For a broader look at detector types, start with our metal detector recommendations. If you're choosing your first model, see metal detectors for adults and our guide to what a good metal detector costs.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for a portable all-around kitSAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
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How we chose the best metal detectors under 200 dollars
Our picks prioritize useful controls, coil size, weight, and included gear for beginner searches. We compared those features and gave more weight to practical kit contents than to maximum detection-depth claims.
Water protection also matters. The Garrett and BOXTREN models have waterproof coils but control boxes that must not be submerged.
Our score weighs specs and features against what you're shopping for. Maximum-depth claims did not count as guaranteed results.
| Product | Best for | Coil | Weight | Modes | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector | a portable all-around kit | 11-inch IP68 DD | 2.7 lb | 4 search modes | 8.8 |
| Minelab X-Terra Voyager | clear target IDs | 11-inch waterproof | 2.8 lb | 4 search modes | 7.8 |
| Garrett ACE 200 | simple first hunts | 6.5 x 9-inch waterproof concentric | 2.8 lb | 3 programs | 7.6 |
| Bounty Hunter TK4 | straightforward analog controls | 8-inch waterproof | 1,270 g | 3 detection modes | 7.4 |
| RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer | an included pinpointing tool | 10-inch IP68 water-resistant | 6.4 lb | 5 modes | 7.3 |
| BOXTREN 12-inch IP68 detector | a wide shaft-adjustment range | 12-inch IP68 DD | 5 detection modes | 7.2 | |
| VVinRC 13-inch DD detector | covering ground with a large coil | 13-inch waterproof DD | 3 search ways | 7.0 |
The 7 best metal detectors under 200 dollars in detail
The SAKOBS ranks first by score for its combination of portability, display, coil, and included accessories. The lower-ranked models suit specific priorities, such as a separate pinpointer or a larger coil.
1. SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector: Our top metal detector under 200 dollars
The SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector is the strongest all-around fit here if you want a light detector and a kit you can pack together. It weighs 2.7 lb, folds for transport, and adjusts from 26 to 47 inches.
SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector
- 2.7 lb detector
- 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil
- Backlit LCD with target ID
- Headphones, shovel, and carrying backpack
A light, foldable kit with an 11-inch waterproof DD coil. It also has a backlit target ID display and includes headphones, a shovel, and a backpack.
Pros
- Foldable and 2.7 lb
- Backlit LCD target ID
- Includes headphones, shovel, and backpack
Cons
- Confirm control-box water protection before water use
- Claimed depth depends on suitable conditions
Its 11-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil supports beach, wet sand, and shallow-water searches. Four modes cover All Metal, Disc, Jewelry, and Pinpointer, alongside a backlit LCD target ID display.
The kit includes headphones, a digging shovel, and a carrying backpack. Those accessories give you a place to start without choosing each piece separately.
SAKOBS claims detection up to 12.8 inches under suitable conditions. That conditional maximum should not decide the purchase on its own.
Keep the controls dry unless the manual confirms otherwise. The coil's IP68 protection does not establish the control box's water limits.
2. Minelab X-Terra Voyager: Numerical IDs and four modes
The Minelab X-Terra Voyager suits buyers who want large numerical target IDs and several search modes. Its 11-inch coil is waterproof, and the detector weighs 2.8 lb.
Minelab X-Terra Voyager
- 11-inch waterproof coil
- Large numerical target IDs
- 4 search modes
- Headphones, shovel, and backpack
Its large numerical target IDs and four modes make the Voyager a practical choice if you want more information before digging. It comes with headphones, a collapsible shovel, and a backpack.
Pros
- Large numerical target ID display
- Four modes, including Custom and Learn
- Includes headphones, shovel, and backpack
Cons
- Confirm control-unit water protection before water use
- Slightly heavier than SAKOBS at 2.8 lb
Four modes cover All Metal, Custom, Jewelry, and Learn. Minelab says All Metal mode provides increased sensitivity in mineralized soils.
The detector also has seven discrimination segments and a pinpoint mode. These give you ways to filter unwanted targets and narrow down a signal before digging.
The kit includes headphones, a collapsible shovel, and a backpack. Its shaft collapses to 28.3 inches for transport in a vehicle or bag.
Keep the control unit out of water unless its instructions confirm suitable protection. The waterproof coil alone does not establish that the whole detector can be submerged.
For a deeper look at detector depth, read how deep a metal detector can detect.
3. Garrett ACE 200: Touch-and-go operation
The Garrett ACE 200 is a beginner option with touch-and-go operation and a 0 to 99 Digital Target ID scale. It weighs 2.8 lb and includes 4 AA batteries.
Garrett ACE 200
- Simple touch-and-go operation
- 0 to 99 Digital Target ID
- Waterproof 6.5 x 9-inch coil
- 4 AA batteries included
Its touch-and-go controls and 0 to 99 Digital Target ID suit beginner use. Its search coil is waterproof, while the control box is not.
Pros
- Simple touch-and-go operation
- Digital target ID from 0 to 99
- Includes 4 AA batteries
Cons
- Smaller coil than several picks here
- Control box is not waterproof
Its 6.5 by 9-inch PROformance concentric coil is waterproof. Garrett supports using the coil in shallow water, streams, or damp shoreline sand.
The control box is not waterproof, so keep it above water. This is a coil-only option for shallow-water searching.
The detector has three programs and sharp audio tones. Its adjustable stem lets you change the fit for different user heights.
The package includes the detector, coil, batteries, and owner's manual. Garrett backs it with a 3-year limited factory warranty.
4. Bounty Hunter TK4: Analog controls and three modes
The Bounty Hunter TK4 suits buyers who prefer analog controls and adjustable sensitivity. It has an 8-inch waterproof coil for shallow water, damp soil, and sandy ground.
Bounty Hunter TK4
- 8-inch waterproof coil
- All-metal, tone, and discrimination modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
- Analog controls
Its three detection modes and adjustable sensitivity let you change how the TK4 responds to targets. The 8-inch waterproof coil supports shallow-water searches.
Pros
- Waterproof 8-inch coil
- Three detection modes
- Adjustable sensitivity
Cons
- Smaller coil than most picks here
- Confirm accessory contents if you need a complete kit
Its all-metal, tone, and discrimination modes let you change how it responds to targets. Those three options keep the mode choice narrower than on the five-mode models here.
The TK4 supports coin, jewelry, and relic searches. At 1,270 g, its stated item weight is another useful point to compare when planning your kit.
Keep the detector body above water unless the manual confirms otherwise. Waterproof coil protection alone is not a reason to submerge the controls.
Confirm accessory contents if you want headphones and a digging tool with your detector. Include those items in your budget if you need to buy them separately.
5. RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer: A separate recovery tool
The RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer suits buyers who want a separate pinpointer in the box. Its kit also includes a holster, headphones, a digger, and a backpack.
RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer
- 10-inch IP68 water-resistant coil
- 5 modes, including Pinpoint
- Separate pinpointer and holster
- Headphones, digger, and backpack
The separate pinpointer and holster set this kit apart for target recovery. It also includes headphones, a digger, and a backpack.
Pros
- Separate pinpointer and holster included
- Five modes
- 10-inch IP68 water-resistant coil
Cons
- 6.4 lb item weight warrants checking detector-only weight
- 10-inch maximum depth is a RIPTIC claim
The detector has five modes: All-Metal, Disc, Memory, Jewelry, and Pinpoint. It uses a 10-inch IP68 water-resistant coil for searches in places such as fields and riverbanks.
The shaft adjusts from 19 to 50 inches. That gives you a wide range to consider when checking the detector's fit.
The stated item weight is 6.4 lb, but it does not establish the detector-only weight separately from the kit. Confirm the weight you'll actually swing if you plan long hunts.
RIPTIC claims a maximum detection depth of 10 inches. Avoid choosing it on that maximum alone.
If you want to understand the role of a separate tool, read what a pinpointer is used for.
6. BOXTREN 12-inch IP68 detector: Wide shaft adjustment
The BOXTREN 12-inch IP68 detector offers a 12-inch waterproof DD coil, five modes, and a backlit LCD. Its adjustable shaft runs from 20 to 53 inches.
BOXTREN 12-inch IP68 detector
- 12-inch IP68 waterproof DD coil
- 5 detection modes
- Backlit LCD with target ID and depth
- Headphones, shovel, backpack, and batteries
A 12-inch IP68 coil and five modes give the BOXTREN several search options for beach, park, and field trips. Its control box is splash-proof, not waterproof.
Pros
- 20 to 53-inch shaft adjustment
- Five modes, including Notch and Pinpoint
- Includes headphones, shovel, backpack, and batteries
Cons
- Control box must not be immersed
- Confirm battery type before buying spares
The modes include All-Metal, Disc, Notch, Memory, and Pinpoint. The display shows target ID, depth, and battery status, and sensitivity has 10 adjustable levels.
Its kit includes headphones, a shovel, a backpack, and batteries. Confirm the battery type before buying spares, since the supplied battery information conflicts.
The coil can be submerged for shallow-water hunting. The control box is splash-proof only and must not be immersed.
BOXTREN claims detection up to 12.8 inches, including in mineralized soil. Treat that as a brand performance claim rather than a depth you should expect on every search.
7. VVinRC 13-inch DD detector: The widest coil here
The VVinRC 13-inch DD detector has the largest coil in this group. Its 13-inch sweep can help you cover more ground per pass.
VVinRC 13-inch DD detector
- 13-inch waterproof DD coil
- All Metals, DISC, and Pinpoint modes
- Backlit LCD with approximate depth and sensitivity adjustment
- Adjustable stem
The 13-inch DD coil is the largest in this group, which can help you cover more ground per sweep. The detector also has DISC and Pinpoint modes.
Pros
- Largest coil in this group
- Backlit LCD with approximate depth and sensitivity adjustment
- Adjustable stem
Cons
- Confirm control-box water protection before water use
- 39.37-inch minimum stem length needs a fit check for shorter users
It offers All Metals, DISC, and Pinpoint modes. The backlit LCD shows approximate target depth and lets you adjust sensitivity.
The stem adjusts from 39.37 to 49.21 inches. Check that minimum length against your height and reach before choosing it for a shorter user.
Its Pinpoint function stays active after one press of the P/P button. You do not need to keep holding the button while using that function.
The search coil is waterproof, but keep the display and controls dry unless the manual confirms suitable protection. Headphone use is supported, so confirm accessory contents if you want a complete kit.
What should you compare before buying a metal detector under 200 dollars?
Compare controls, coil size, weight, and included tools before choosing a detector under 200 dollars. These details help you judge how the detector fits your reach, packing space, and planned searches.
A numerical target ID gives you information to consider before digging. The ACE 200 uses a 0 to 99 scale, and the Voyager has large numerical target IDs.
Compare the actual mode choices rather than just counting them. The Voyager includes Custom and Learn, while BOXTREN includes Notch and Memory.
Built-in pinpoint modes and separate pinpointers are also different buying choices. The RIPTIC kit includes a separate tool, while SAKOBS includes a Pinpointer search mode.
For more beginner advice, see how to use a metal detector on your first hunt.
Does a waterproof coil mean the whole detector is waterproof?
No, coil protection does not establish whole-detector protection. The Garrett ACE 200 has a waterproof coil and a control box that is not waterproof.
BOXTREN also says not to immerse its control box, which is splash-proof only. Keep those controls above water during beach or stream searches.
For the other picks, confirm control-box protection before allowing water to reach it. Do not apply a coil's IP rating to the whole detector.
If water use is your main goal, our guide to what waterproof means on a metal detector explains the difference between coil and control-box protection.
Which metal detector under 200 dollars should you choose?
Choose the SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector for a light, foldable kit with a waterproof coil and included accessories. Choose the Minelab X-Terra Voyager if large numerical target IDs are your priority.
The Garrett ACE 200 suits simple touch-and-go operation, while the RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer includes a separate recovery tool. Check current costs and the fit of your preferred model before ordering.
If you're considering a higher budget tier, see our guide to metal detectors under 300 dollars. Compare the features you'll use before stretching your budget.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Best for a portable all-around kit
SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
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Frequently asked questions
Can you get a good metal detector under 200 dollars?
A useful beginner detector should offer controls you can learn, a manageable weight, and a coil suited to your search area. These picks offer different combinations of those features, but compare current costs before buying.
Target ID, discrimination, and included tools can help you choose without relying on maximum-depth claims.
Which metal detector under 200 dollars is easiest for a beginner?
The Garrett ACE 200 is a strong starting point for simple touch-and-go operation and a 0 to 99 Digital Target ID scale. The Minelab X-Terra Voyager offers large numerical target IDs and four modes, while the SAKOBS kit includes headphones, a shovel, and a backpack.
Can I use a metal detector in shallow water?
You can use a waterproof search coil in shallow water within the detector's instructions, but that does not mean you can submerge the controls. The Garrett ACE 200 control box is not waterproof, and BOXTREN's is splash-proof only, so keep those control boxes above water.
Do you need a pinpointer with a metal detector?
A separate pinpointer is optional and can help narrow down a target during recovery. The RIPTIC M55 with pinpointer includes that tool and a holster, while the SAKOBS 11-inch foldable detector has a built-in Pinpointer search mode, so you can compare those two approaches before choosing a kit.
