10 Best Saltwater Metal Detector 2025 in the United States

The Gbnryg Professional Metal Detector is designed for adults looking to explore metal detecting in saltwater environments. With a 12-inch IP68 waterproof search coil, it is well-suited for beach walks and shallow water searches, though note that the controller is not waterproof. Operating at a frequency of 9 kHz, it provides decent performance in finding various metals.

One of its notable strengths is its advanced DSP chip, which claims to enhance detection accuracy and stability by 40%. This is beneficial for users searching for small items, like coins, buried up to 12 inches underground. The detector features five modes, including All Metal, Discrimination, Memory, Jewelry, and Pinpoint, which offer versatility in targeting specific metals and environments. These modes can be quite helpful for beginners who are learning to differentiate between types of metals.

Ergonomically, the detector is user-friendly, with an easy installation process and a collapsible design. It includes a larger LCD with a backlit display, making it simple to read in various lighting conditions. The adjustable length and comfortable grip make it suitable for users of different heights, including children. However, at 3.8 pounds, it may become tiring to use for extended periods. Additionally, while it provides sensitivity adjustments and different volume levels, the effectiveness of these features in highly mineralized saltwater environments might be limited, especially when compared to more specialized, higher-frequency detectors.

The package includes practical accessories like headphones, a carry backpack, and a digger, which add value. For those interested in casual beach and gold hunting, this detector offers a good balance of features and convenience. However, for serious or professional treasure hunters, especially in challenging saltwater conditions, a more specialized device might be necessary.

The MINELAB X-Terra PRO Waterproof Treasure Metal Detector is a solid choice for both beginners and more experienced users looking for a versatile and reliable metal detector. One of its standout features is the PRO-SWITCH technology, which allows you to switch frequencies to detect various types of metals deeply and accurately in different environments. This makes it highly adaptable, whether you're searching in a park, field, or beach. Its waterproof capabilities allow submersion up to 16 feet, making it ideal for finding treasures in both wet and dry conditions, like at the beach or in shallow water bodies.

With three detect modes—Park, Field, and Beach—you can easily tailor the device to your specific searching conditions and targets, whether it's coins, jewelry, or artifacts. Audio control features include options for distinguishing between trash and treasure and gauging the size and depth of a target, compatible with both wireless and wired headphones for convenience. Weighing only 2.9 lbs, the X-Terra PRO is lightweight and compact, facilitating prolonged use without causing fatigue. It packs down to 25 inches, fitting easily into most backpacks, which makes it highly portable.

While the detector is lightweight, it requires a lithium polymer battery, which is included, but it may require frequent recharging depending on the length of usage. Another minor drawback could be its reliance on an LCD display, which might be challenging to read under direct sunlight despite the backlit feature. The build quality using plastic is practical but might not feel as premium as other materials. Despite these minor limitations, the X-Terra PRO offers a strong blend of performance, ease of use, and versatility, making it a top choice for treasure hunters of all skill levels.

The MINELAB MANTICORE High-Power Multi-IQ+ Waterproof Metal Detector stands out in the saltwater category due to its robust Multi-IQ+ technology, offering 50% more power than traditional detectors. This makes it exceptionally capable of detecting metals across various frequencies simultaneously, enhancing its sensitivity and discrimination abilities. The advanced 2D target ID system helps users identify targets visually and audibly, providing a sophisticated level of discrimination that is particularly useful when searching in trash-laden environments like beaches.

Its waterproof capabilities are noteworthy, supporting submersion up to 16 feet (rated IP68), making it suitable for use in surf and seawater conditions. Additionally, it features multiple search modes tailored to different terrains, including specific settings for beach and goldfield searches, broadening its application scope.

Despite its power, the MANTICORE is designed with user comfort in mind, being lightweight and compact, which is beneficial for prolonged usage. Ergonomics are enhanced by its foldable design, reducing transport space and allowing for easy handling.

On the downside, while the operating frequency of 12 KHz is decent, those specifically targeting gold nuggets might find higher frequencies more effective. Also, at 7.1 pounds, it might be slightly heavier than some competitors, potentially impacting portability for some users.

In summary, this metal detector is well-suited for hobbyists and professionals looking for a high-performance, versatile machine in saltwater and diverse terrains, though the weight may be a consideration for those prioritizing ease of movement. Its advanced features and reliable waterproofing make it a strong contender for those serious about metal detecting in challenging environments.