If your child is interested in minerals, rocks, or striking gold, getting them a metal detector will help them satisfy their curiosity while helping them get regular exercise. Unfortunately, finding the right metal detector can be tricky – but we can help.
In this article, we’ll review four affordable metal detectors to find the best metal detector for kids. Let’s dive in.
National Geographic Professional Metal Detector
The National Geographic Professional Metal Detector is the best metal detector for kids aged 4 – 8. This metal detector is very easy to use, weighs just 2.3 lbs, detects metals up to 12 inches deep, and can be folded down for easy storage. The stem on this metal detector is adjustable from 24 inches to 39 inches, meaning both adults and children can wear it. It’s powered by 4 AA batteries and includes an audio jack so you can use the detector with headphones. If you are worried about safety, this is also the choice for you, as there are no loose cords.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight
- Adjustable so children and adults can use it
- No loose cords
Cons:
- Made with plastic
OMMO Metal Detector
The OMMO Metal Detector is the best option for families with young children under eight and older children who need to use the same metal detector. This metal detector has a simple, child-friendly display but is fantastic at detecting metals on land and underwater. It detects metals up to 8 inches deep, weighs roughly 4 lbs, and includes an audio jack for headphones. It also has an adjustable stem that can extend from 30 inches to 43 inches (so it’s suitable for adult use too). The OMMO metal detector comes with headphones, a headphone jack, two 9 volt batteries, a case, and a shovel.
Pros:
- Suitable for younger and older children
- Adjustable stem
- Lightweight
- Comes with accessories
Cons:
- Cannot be used indoors (there is too much interference from magnetic appliances)
- Has external cable
Fisher F22 Metal Detector
The Fisher F22 Metal Detector is the best metal detector for kids aged 12 +. This metal detector is weatherproof, has a 9-inch search coil, and can be used underwater and on land. It runs on 2 AA batteries, has 25 – 30 hours of battery life, and comes with a five-year warranty. It’s sold with an arm strap, a protective cover, and a cover for the search coil. As it has a 40-inch stem, this metal detector is recommended for people 4.2 feet (130 cm) and over.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Great warranty
- Made with high-quality materials
- Works underwater and on land
Cons:
- Not recommended for young children
Bounty Hunter Quick Silver Metal Detector
The Bounty Hunter Quick Silver Metal Detector is another excellent option for families that want a high-quality metal detector. The Bounty Hunter metal detector has an adjustable strap, an 8-inch search coil, and a 5-year limited warranty. It operates on two 9 volt batteries and works up to depths of 8 inches on land and underwater. This metal detector weighs just 2 lbs.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Adjustable strap
- Good warranty
Cons:
- Has external cable
- Made with plastic
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is metal detecting good for kids?
Metal detecting is a great activity for children aged 4+. Metal detecting is fun, educational, and fantastic exercise for the whole family. It also helps children learn about the rocks, minerals, and history of their local area.
What metals can metal detectors find?
Metal detectors can detect copper, iron, silver, gold, zinc, and nickel. Many metal detectors also use different tones to tell you which metal it has found, though this feature works differently with every device.Â
What is the best waterproof metal detector?
The best waterproof metal detector is the Fisher F22 Metal Detector. It works underwater, in the rain, and can tolerate seawater.
How much does a kids metal detector cost?
Kids metal detectors usually cost between $60 – $350. However, as long as your child can steadily hold the weight of the metal detector above the ground, it is safe for them to use a regular metal detector. If you are looking for a better quality detector, we recommend getting the OMMO metal detector and adjusting its size.
Takeaway
Metal detecting technology has come a long way over the past hundred years, as a high-quality metal detector will now cost you less than $200. If you’re looking for the best metal detector for kids, we recommend the OMMO Metal Detector or the Fisher F22 Metal Detector.
