6 Best Metal Detectors for Finding Gold

Minelab’s range of detectors is known for its reliability and high-quality build. A trusted brand and leader in the metal detecting industry, Minelab has come up with another top-shelf machine for finding gold in any type of environment.

This top-of-the-line metal detector can help you find those hidden treasures, no matter the terrain. The Minelab GPZ 7000 is for the best of the best. This powerful machine is designed for serious prospectors, and can easily find gold nuggets that are buried up to 40% deeper than other detectors on the market. With its waterproof coil and ZVT technology, it can withstand even the most difficult conditions, while the full-color LCD makes it easy to keep track of your progress. And best of all, it comes with a 3-year warranty, so you can be confident in its performance.

Our Best Overall detector can detect gold in three different modes – High Yield, General, and Extra Deep – so you can be sure you’re finding all the gold that’s out there. And with its Ground Type feature, you can adjust your settings to account for different types of ground, so you’ll always get accurate readings.

Ready to hunt for buried treasure like a true pirate? Then you need the Minelab Equinox 800 multi-IQ metal detector. This best budget gold detector is equipped with Minelab's revolutionary new technology that combines the power of multiple detectors into one, for maximum efficiency. Whether you're searching for coins in the park, jewelry on the beach, or gold nuggets in the field, this detector can handle it all. And because it's fully waterproof, you can even use it in up to 10 feet of water. Plus, with accurate target ID and custom search profiles, you'll be able to quickly identify your targets and sort through the trash to find the real treasure.

With two built-in gold programs and an adjustable backlit LED display that works in any light condition, the Equinox 800 is perfect for use in any situation.  Whether you're an experienced gold hunter or just getting started, this detector is sure to help you find what you're looking for.

With reported location depths of up to 6 inches for gold nuggets and 16 inches for gold rings, this metal detector is no match for other lesser quality devices.  It's easy to use, lightweight and has great balance. Plus, the ability to update firmware makes it great for any newer technology that comes out and not having to buy a new model! With three or four long hunts per charge, you'll be able to explore all kinds of gold patches with ease.

The built-in presets make it simple to get started, and the wireless design makes it easy to explore new areas. Plus, with its ability to detect under the water, sand, and dirt, this detector is perfect for any terrain.

Our runner-up model could easily be considered the best gold detector in its own right.  The Fisher Gold Bug 2 is the perfect metal detector for those looking for a powerful and sensitive detector. Thanks to its 71 kHz operation, this detector can pick up even the smallest gold nuggets with its ultra-high frequency. The 'IRON DISC' mode also helps to reject iron (trash) targets and hot rocks, while the Deep Target Audio Boost Mode ensures you hear every signal loud and clear.

Another great feature is the High, Normal, and Low Mineralization modes.  These settings let you adjust the detector to your specific needs, while the adjustable Threshold, Volume, and Sensitivity make sure you're always in control. And at only 2.9 pounds, it is a lightweight and hip-mountable design, so you can take this detector with you wherever you go. Also, the dual-knob ground control allows for coarse and fine adjustment, while the audio-tone battery test mode makes it easy to check the battery level.

Better yet, right now you can get this model with 2 different sized coils for any scenario you find yourself in, a 6.5 inch and 10-inch coil.  Whether you're searching in tight stream beds or searching for gold nuggets in more open areas, the Gold Bug 2 is perfect for the job.  It's also dust and moisture resistant, so you can explore even the most rugged terrain. And the 5-year warranty doesn’t hurt either!

An added benefit to this great-priced gold detector is the capability to manually adjust your settings.  Other detectors are known for having auto-controlled settings which help all experience levels, but allowing more experienced hunters to be able to manually adjust is great for better results in the field.

The innovative Fisher Gold Bug 2 features a built-in speaker, is extremely easy to set up and is ergonomically built for easy swinging.

This gold detector is our best metal detector for gold under $650.  If you’re looking for a versatile and low-cost gold detector that any detector can get behind, then look no further!  The Garrett AT Gold is a deep-seeking detector perfect for all kinds of prospecting, from coin hunting to relic hunting. With its highly recommended True All Metal Mode performance and 18kHz frequency, you'll be able to find even the smallest gold nuggets, jewelry, and coins. And don't forget the included 5x8 (14x20cm) PROformance waterproof search coil - this thing is just packed with features!  The small coil makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and it's waterproof up to 10 feet.  Just be careful, because while it is waterproof, it won’t hold up in saltwater!

And it does come with a set of stock headphones, but these do not work underwater like the detector itself.  So look into getting yourself a pair of waterproof Garrett headphones.  As for non-saltwater situations like rain, no worries, this detector and headphones work great in these wet conditions.

This reliable device is perfect for beginners and experts alike, offering four frequencies and an interchangeable coil system. Plus, the digital screen makes it easy to keep track of your progress. And if you're searching in a trashy area, the Iron Audio feature will be a lifesaver. Best of all, the AT Gold comes with a two-year manufacturer's warranty, so you can buy with confidence. The AT Gold also boasts interchangeable coils and a battery life of 25 hours, making it a great choice for those long days out in the field.

Another reason that this detector is perfect for those just getting into the hobby, it features an optional automatic ground balance that makes things a breeze.  It's also lightweight and collapsible, so it's easy to take with you on your adventures. Whether you're exploring new territory or revisiting an old favorite spot, you'll be able to find all the hidden gold with the Garrett AT Gold Metal Detector. Plus, this detector has a fast refresh rate, so you can find and discard those pesky coins and tabs in no time!

This outstanding device can not only detect metal buried deep beneath the ground but also discriminate between different types of metal. With just a touch of a button, you can switch between three modes, including an all-metal mode, to suit your needs.  The depth display and iron discrimination (1 through 40) controls are easy to use and understand.  But if you’re a beginner, do yourself a favor and watch the “how-to” DVD that comes with your purchase.  It will save you a lot of time and confusion.

If you’re interested in an alternate gold detector that is priced favorably but still packs a punch, then check out the Garrett ACE 400.  This powerful metal detector comes with a number of extra accessories, including an 8.5 x 11-inch search coil cover and clear sound headphones, so you can maximize your chances of finding buried treasure. It also features electronic pinpointing, which makes it easy to locate targets, and notch discrimination, which allows you to modify discrimination patterns based on what you're looking for. The Garrett ACE 400 also comes with a free catalog and exclusive 2-year warranty, which never hurts.

The Garrett ACE 400 has been redesigned with new features that will make hunting for gold even more fun and rewarding. With 5 search modes, a 10 kHz frequency for better sensitivity to low and medium conductivity targets, and an adjustable frequency to eliminate interference, you'll be able to find gold wherever it may be hiding.

This machine is designed to work in even the most mineralized environments, and its lightweight construction (actual weight is 2.9 lbs) makes it easy to transport from one spot to another. Plus, with its adjustable length, it's perfect for users of all sizes.  When it comes to hunting at the beach, this detector was made for it.  Just know that it doesn’t operate as well in the wet sand as it does in dry sand.  You can still search in wet sand, just be sure to jack up the discrimination setting for better readings.

The included DD coil makes it easy to distinguish between iron and the gold that you are seeking. Plus, the Garrett ACE 400 is specifically designed to be more accurate and discriminating, so you can avoid digging through unnecessary junk. Plus, it features a water rain shield to keep your controls dry, even in bad weather. And if you have any questions or problems with your detector, Garrett's excellent customer service department is always happy to help.

The ACE 400 can easily detect small objects at a depth of 8-9 inches, making it perfect for finding treasures that have been missed by other detectors. Plus, the included headphones are small and comfortable, so you can enjoy your treasure hunting experience without worrying about bulky headphones getting in the way. And with the volume control feature, you can adjust the sound to your liking.

Looking for a fully automatic, easy-to-use gold detector? Look no further than the Minelab Gold Monster! This detector is perfect for beginners and experienced gold hunters alike. It features auto noise canceling, auto ground balance, and automatic sensitivity – so you can focus on finding that next big find! The telescoping shaft makes it adjustable to fit any height, while the waterproof coil enables detecting in all weather conditions. Plus, with three detection modes and adjustable volume controls, you can customize your experience to match your hunting style.

The Minelab Gold Monster is one of the most advanced metal detectors. With its discrimination and ferrous/non-ferrous identification features, it can easily distinguish between valuable targets and iron. This can help when detecting objects buried deep in the ground. And if that wasn't impressive enough, it can even be used to find gold nuggets over a foot deep!  It's perfect for the casual treasure hunter who wants to make their fortune or just have some fun outdoors or the serious pro needing a reliable gold detector for their arsenal.

This VLF machine is incredibly sensitive to small gold, making it ideal for those hoping to find every ounce of gold below them. The battery lasts all day, even with intermittent use, and the fast ground balance feature is perfect for highly mineralized soil. The lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry in a backpack, and you'll never have to worry about arm fatigue.

It also features replaceable coil covers, so you can customize your experience.  Plus, it feels solid in your hand due to the high-quality materials used by Minelab.