Your Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector Review: Uniquely Powerful

The Minelab CTX 3030 metal detector is a high-end device that has been designed for the treasure hunter in all of us.

It offers features and performance that are almost unmatched in the industry. And time has told you that this bad boy holds up to scrutiny.

Hey there Diggers!

It’s time to tackle this fan favorite. A Minelab machine that boasts power and depth.

You’ll learn about its history, design, and how to use it.

So if you find yourself here because you’re thinking of buying the Minelab 3030 CTX, or you already own it but are feeling lost, I’m here to help.

And, if you’re just interested in the ever-so-popular depth question, use the table of contents to drop down to the review on performance.

The Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector at A Glance

Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector Is the All-Purpose Machine for Sultans and Kings

Whoa! Sultans and Kings you say?

Hear me out before you hit that back button.

If you’ve read any of my other articles, you should have picked up on where my loyalty lies.

I’m a big fan of the Minelab Equinox 800 and the more affordable Nokta Simplex. I even compared my two favorite metal detectors, forced to pick a winner.

So, me making such a bold claim about the Minelab CTX 3030 should tell you something.

This metal detecting marvel has been packed with Minelab’s best technology so you can find more treasure than ever before.

Sorry, novice Diggers. This versatile treasure detector is for the experienced detectorist. Unless you’re sure of your commitment.

You will no doubt be in for a steep learning curve. But not an impossible one.

So let’s not waste any more time. You seem ready for the DFP breakdown, right?

Oh, DFP means design, features, and performance.

I just made that initialism up, but it sounds like a keeper.

Minelab CTX 3030 Design

Let’s start with what you see first.

This metal detector just looks stunning, to be honest.

Its dark blue and black colors will have you admiring the sleek and ergonomic frame.

But more than just looking good, it’s designed to give you the most comfortable experience possible.

The weight is perfectly balanced so you can feel safe handling this big monster.

You’ll notice the arm rest comes equipped with a strap. This will make normal detecting easier with all the battery weight you have to handle.

Speaking of the weight, the Minelab CTX 3030 metal detector weighs in at just over five pounds (5.2).

I won’t lie to you. After an extended day of searching a few different treasure locations, the true weight will be felt.

But don’t you worry. There are ways to deal with that.

More on that in a minute.

Besides the weight, you’ll love how it feels when you’re swinging it. The grip is comfortable and won’t rub your skin raw.

The shaft is adjustable to your preferred height. With a minimum of 37 inches to a max of 55.3 inches, this will accommodate most everyone.

Even my vertically challenged friends can find their perfect fit.

But I’m burying the lead!

The best part about the shaft? It’s hollowed out so the cables running to the search coil don’t get in the way.

And it gives the CTX metal detector a cleaner look than other Minelab detectors.

Finally, you’ve got the LCD color display with adjustable brightness to your liking.

Believe me, with the kind of features you get with this metal detector, you’ll appreciate the level of effort Minelab put into the visual display.

I don’t want to bore you will any more measurements. Just believe me when I say, the Minelab CTX 3030 metal detector is in its own category as a sleek and rugged combo.

Minelab CTX 3030 Features

Now for the fun part. As cool as the Minelab CTX 3030 looks, the advanced features are the true prize.

Are you ready to be impressed?

I’ll do my best not to get too nerdy here. Sometimes I really geek out with this stuff.

What Frequencies Does CTX 3030 Use?

All the difference-making features are built on the backbone of a multiple frequency transmission VLF metal detector.

This means you can search for all types of metals with unrivaled accuracy. Thanks to Minelab’s patented multiple frequencies, FBS technology.

This full band of multiple frequencies (1.5 kHz to 100 kHz) is able to identify multiple targets simultaneously and make ground balance auto compensation possible.

In simpler terms, FBS uses 28 frequencies that can tell you what are considered treasure locations or high trash areas.

It knows the difference between soil and metal, without you having to fiddle with your detector settings.

The Minelab CTX 3030 then uses that target separation to feed you the best target identification (ID) results.

I know we’re kind of getting in the weeds here. But somewhere between the multiple frequencies and all that accurate recording of data, you get the target information you need on your colour LCD.

And all of this happens in a matter of milliseconds so you can start digging up those more historical treasures.

Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector Sensitivity and Discrimination

You’ll find the Minelab CTX 3030 to have extremely high sensitivity.

This is a good thing!

With very high sensitivity, your level of depth detection increases.

So, you want your metal detector to be as sensitive as possible. But, that can sometimes lead to what’s called “chatter”.

Chatter is when your metal detector is picking up on high trash volume or non-valuable metals. Or sometimes it’s the variable ground conditions playing tricks on your search coil.

This can be frustrating because it feels like your metal detector is going off all the time.

Luckily, Minelab made sure that the CTX 3030 has a way to deal with that.

You have the option of using manual sensitivity or automatic sensitivity. A level setting of 1 to 30.

Manual sensitivity gives you the control.

It’s best to use this setting in areas where the ground is less mineralized or you know for a fact that those trash signals aren’t present.

As far as the Auto sensitivity, you should activate it whenever you’re in an untouched area. Meaning, that if this is a property where the ground hasn’t been disturbed, unlike a farm, it’s likely to have more mineralization.

While in auto mode, your metal detector will consistently analyze the soil conditions and adjust as the levels of mineralization change.

This will also help with false signals due to things like power lines or hot rocks.

I always recommend that detectorists start with the Auto sensitivity on and then move to manual if you need to.

You can also use the discrimination setting on your Minelab CTX 3030 to help with chatter.

This is where you choose which types of metals you want your detector to pick up.

For example, if you’re only interested in finding gold, you would set the discrimination to eliminate certain metals like iron.

But this isn’t just any old discrimination level. This is Smartfind 2 technology.

Smartfind uses Ultimate FeCo Discrimination and digital signal processing for the best target identification results on your detect screen.

By incorporating adjustable tone ID profiles, you can preset which trash items for your detector to ignore.

Not just that, but to get the most out of your hunt, the Target Trace and Target Separation give the FeCo discrimination an added boost.

You’ll have easy access to detect single or multiple targets simultaneously.

The most accurate detecting results never came so easy!

Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector Search Modes

No matter your hunting style, the CTX 3030 has you ready for action.

Minelab metal detectors are never without their preset search options. And this time is no different.

Not only do you get five custom search modes for any conductive properties you’re hunting. In addition, you get five preset search modes.

These five preset modes include Beach, Coins, High Trash, Relics, and Silver. You also get to use the Pinpoint search mode with modulated audio.

This search mode has two options, normal and sizing.

By toggling through the menu on your color display screen, you can choose the best option for your treasure hunting needs.

Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector PC Mapping (w/ Google Maps) and GPS Locating

Ok, everything before this was pretty impressive, right?

I mean advanced target trace discrimination and colour LCD screens displaying accurate target identification readings?

How could you even top that?

Oh, I know!

How about advanced features like integrated GPS? Or the ability to use Google Maps to save and records all your Minelab CTX 3030 history?

No matter if it’s what you find, where you found it, or just a recording of the hunt itself.

You’ll never need to pack your handheld GPS again. Or carry around that notepad that details the location of each treasure hunt you went on.

You get all of that and more from the CTX 3030’s map screen.

Let’s say you’ve been detecting in a new area. It’s been several hours and you’ve traveled pretty far from anything recognizable.

You won’t have to worry about not getting cell phone reception. And if you can’t remember if you already hunted in this grid, the GPS locating will help you.

Just like any other GPS tool you’ve ever used, the Minelab CTX 3030 will show you exactly where you are, where you’ve been, and where you’re headed.

Inside the integrated GPS locating feature, there are internal apps to make your experience more convenient.

Waypoints mark points with the GPS functions. Another app, Geotrails, will display on the map screen where you’ve already been.

As for the PC Mapping feature, you have the ability to download data from your metal detector onto your computer.

This includes places of interest, photos of your finds, and notes made as part of your discovery log. Afterward, you can view the visual indication of each entry in Google Maps.

Just be sure you are using a Windows device, like a computer with the Windows XP operating system. Unfortunately, any Mac device is not compatible with the XChange 2 app.

XChange is a free app that stores your detecting data on your private computer.

Neither Minelab nor any other entity can view your information.

If you decide to use this application, you just have to plug in your Minelab CTX 3030 to your computer. The application will run on its own from there.

Not so computer savvy? That’s ok!

Follow this link for step-by-step directions on installing and using XChange 2.

Last but Not Least

• Auto and Manual Noise Cancel to Limit External Interference
• Wireless and Non-Wireless Audio Capability (Internal Speaker/Headphones)
• Auto Compensation and Auto Ground Balance
• 1 – 50 Threshold Level Adjustment with Pitch Adjustment for Tone
• 9 Language Options
• 2 Recovery Choices (Fast and Deep) to Adjust how the Discrimination Works

Like most metal detectors, the CTX 3030 comes loaded with other notable features besides target separation or depth indication.

The list above tells you what you already know. This Minelab CTX 3030 is packed with power.

These throw-in extras are nothing to sneeze at.

For instance, you get a built in speaker and a custom waterproof socket for headphones.

Bad news and good news here.

The socket only works for Minelab accessory headphones. But the good news is, that this metal detector comes with supplied headphones.

While they’re nothing to write home about, the supplied headphones are Koss UR30s.

However, there’s even better news.

This detector gives you a wireless audio feature. In fact, when you purchase the CTX 3030, you get a WM 10 Wireless Module.

So, if you aren’t in love with the built in speaker; or the thought of turning those Koss UR30s into your go-to wireless audio option, head over to my review of the best wireless audio headphones for metal detecting.

There are some very fast wireless audio options like the Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk.

Minelab CTX 3030 Performance

Ok Diggers, the moment many of you have been waiting for!

How does this behemoth of a machine fair when you’re actually using it?

I’ve done some relentless research on using the CTX 3030. And thanks to a buddy of mine, I had a chance to put it to the test in person.

To kick it off, let’s talk about depth.

How Deep Can the Minelab CTX 3030 Detect?

I can safely say that the Minelab CTX 3030 can detect from 10 to 15 inches deep, on average. Of course, this will change based on ground conditions and which coil you use.

Some Diggers have reported deeper detection. I don’t doubt it at all.

Between the FeCo target resolution and automatic sensitivity setting, you’ll find more targets at a greater depth than you thought possible.

As for myself, I maxed out at 11 inches. But, I was using the Minelab 11″ DD coil in some pretty mineralized ground.

I’m confident that if I had used a larger coil, like the Minelab 17″ DD coil, I would have gotten greater depth.

For you to get the best results, I would leave your sensitivity on automatic. This way, your detector will switch to a higher frequency for the smaller targets down deep.

When you hit on a signal, the target trace will gather detailed target information.

With the depth indication, accurate gauge in numerical format will display on the detect screen.

So all the guesswork is taken out of the equation.

Is the Minelab CTX 3030 Waterproof?

Yes, the CTX 3030 is fully waterproof up to 10 feet. It comes with the standard 11-inch DD coil, which is also waterproof.

However, the headphones that come with your CTX are not waterproof.

To take this treasure-hunting gem down into the deep, you might want to invest in waterproof headphones.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to try out the performance in the water myself. But my buddy assures me he’s never had an issue underwater detecting in the rivers he frequently hunts in.

How Long to Charge CTX 3030 Battery?

The CTX 3030 metal detector comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a fast charging station.

According to Minelab, the rechargeable battery can take up to 4 hours for a full charge. If you’re unable to recharge the battery, you have other options.

This detector also comes with a secondary battery pack (without the batteries) that take 8 AA alkaline batteries.

And if you’re on your way to a new dig site and forgot to charge your Li-ion battery, no worries!

The car adapter supplied in this bundle will get you up and running in no time.

How Long Does the CTX 3030 Battery Last?

If you’re using the rechargeable battery in your CTX 3030, the battery will last up to 13 hours (according to the manual).

When your battery is getting low, you’ll notice the charge level icon on the screen starts to flash. A low battery sound will repeat every 20 seconds.

If you don’t change or charge the battery at this point, a ‘low battery’ message pops up on the screen and the CTX will power down.

So make sure you have that extra battery pack with you!

Can You Find Gold with a CTX 3030?

The Minelab CTX 3030 metal detector will definitely find gold. Minelab’s FBS technology (Full Band Spectrum) is exceptional at finding small nuggets of gold, even in the most challenging ground conditions.

Now, you’re going to want to adjust your settings based on the environment you’re detecting at.

If you like to comb the beaches for lost trinkets and treasures, use the Relic mode.

You shouldn’t have to fiddle with the discrimination or target separation.

You may be thinking, why can’t you just use the Beach mode?

Well, Relic mode will give you a bit more depth and find items that Beach mode would ignore due to preset discrimination settings.

Just be sure it’s a beach with little to no trash tones. Otherwise, you probably will want to use Beach mode.

How Do You Use the Minelab CTX 3030?

Now that you know all the cool features that make this detector the machine for elite Diggers, let’s cover the learning curve to using it.

Because there is most definitely a learning curve for beginners.

I’m not going to try and walk you through every step of each mode and adjustment. That would just take too long and you’d probably have to reread most of it.

What I will do is answer 2 questions that seem to be asked the most.

And, I’ll leave you with this instructional video that makes operating the menu system much easier to understand.

How Do You Adjust the Sensitivity on A CTX 3030?

The CTX 3030 does come with an automatic sensitivity setting. But, if you want to manually adjust the sensitivity in auto or manual, follow these steps.

1. Bring up the Sensitivity Quick Menu by holding down the Sensitivity button for a few seconds.
2. The Sensitivity Quick Menu has 3 rows or options. These are Sensitivity Type, Auto Level, and Manual Level. Select your sensitivity type (manual or auto) by using the toggle (arrow) buttons and the Select button to confirm.
3. If you chose Auto as your sensitivity type, go to the second row and change your Auto Level as needed (ranges from -3 to +3). Hit select to confirm your change.
4. If you chose Manual as your sensitivity type, go to the third row and change your Manual Level as needed (ranges from 1 to 30). Hit select to confirm your change.

For beginners, I’d recommend just leaving it on Auto and an Auto Level of +2.

How Do I Reset a Minelab CTX 3030?

If you’re having any programming or performance issues you can’t seem to correct, try to perform a factory reset on your device.

To reset a Minelab CTX 3030, you first have to make sure it is powered off. Once it is powered down, follow the steps below.

1. Hold down the power button until the detector turns on, and plays the usual CTX startup tones, followed by a separate low tone. Once you hear this new low tone, release the power button.
2. Your Reset Menu will appear on the display screen with four options. Reset GeoStore, Reset Settings, Reset All, Language.
3. Using the toggle buttons, highlight Reset Settings or Reset All (depending on your needs). Then hit the Select button to confirm.

Your CTX 3030 will now initiate a full reset.

Minelab CTX 3030 Problems

Well, it can’t all be sunshine and rainbow, right?

This is an incredible machine and has the most accurate target identification I’ve used.

However, as with any complex electronic device, there can be problems.

The Minelab CTX 3030 is no different.

Some of the more consistent issues have been resolved, but others aren’t so easy to correct.

Earlier models of the CTX had the bad habit of letting water leak into the battery pack. This was due to a flaw in the design of the seal around the battery pack.

Detectorists who went underwater detecting complained of their CTX dying after about 30 minutes. Once back on land, the problem was clear as day.

As soon as you removed the battery, water came pouring out of it.

The other default in the CTX early on was that the locking mechanism on the adjustable armrest wouldn’t maintain a lock. This would occur after some time with regular adjustments being made.

Luckily, Minelab fixed both these issues in 2016.

All CTX 3030’s now come with a stamp that indicates it’s an upgraded model without these flaws.

The only current problems with the CTX are ones that won’t jump out and catch you off guard.

They are the price and the weight.

The weight is evenly distributed but I won’t lie to you. It can get uncomfortable after a while.

The only way you’ll overcome this “problem” is by hitting the gym or using a harness.

Minelab does make a harness that works with the CTX. It’s worth taking a look at in my opinion. Your upper body will thank you later.

In regards to the price…well, it’s expensive. There’s no getting around that.

Below we’ll talk more about the price and why the old saying, “you get what you pay for” holds true.

CTX 3030 History Lesson

You’ve already learned so much about this one-of-a-kind metal detector.

You might as well learn some brief history before you go.

When Did the Minelab CTX 3030 Come Out?

The Minelab CTX 3030 came out in the second half of 2012. Full product details were released on May 11, 2012.

And the metal detecting world waited with anticipation. Many dubbed the new Minelab detector, “The Future of Discovery“.

Where Is the Minelab CTX 3030 Made?

The Minelab CTX 3030 is made in Minelab’s home country of Australia. All Minelab detectors are designed and engineered in Australia.

However, some manufacturing and assembly are done in Malaysia.

Is the CTX 3030 Worth It?

Yes, yes, and yes. The Minelab CTX 3030 is worth it.

This is a premium-level metal detector that takes experienced Diggers to the next level. And kickstart a beginner’s journey into hyper speed.

You’ll pay more for this big boy but it gives back 100 times the price.

If I could make one recommendation though?

The manual leaves a little to the imagination. With all the advanced tech built into this detector, you need to take the time to learn how to use it.

YouTube videos help but you should have a CTX 3030 bible to refer to.

The best resource out there is “The Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector Handbook” by Andy Sabisch.

Andy walks you through each feature and setting. He helps you set up your detector for success with as few adjustments as possible.

FAQs About the Minelab CTX 3030 Metal Detector

Question and answer time.

Follow along to get the last bit of information I have for you.

Is the Minelab CTX 3030 Pulse Induction?

No, the Minelab CTX 3030 does not use pulse induction. The Minelab GPX 5000 is their top-of-the-line pulse induction machine, but it’s generally considered a gold detector.

The Minelab CTX 3030 is a VLF multiple frequency metal detector. It uses advanced ferrous and conductivity target resolution to identify more than one target at a time.

How Much Is a Minelab CTX 3030?

Ah, the old “how much will it cost me” topic.

Well, I won’t promise you a price because they change pretty frequently.

But, at the time of publishing this article, you’ll be spending around $2,500 for the Minelab CTX 3030.

You check one of the links below to get the most up-to-date pricing.

While it is a lot to spend on anything, for what you get back, I think you’d agree it’s a rare deal.

Not only do you get an unreal wishlist of detector capabilities (auto ground balance, PC mapping, FeCo discrimination, etc.).

But you also get a ton of extras in frequently offered bundles. For instance, the car adapter supplied with your purchase. A coil cover for protection is usually included.

And a rechargeable battery pack with the charging station.

That’s just to name a few of the extras you get!

But, if the cost is definitely out of your price range, I do cover some other models if you have a limited budget.

Is There a New CTX 3030 Coming Out?

As of August 1, 2022, there’s been no official word on if a new CTX 3030 is coming out. But there are plenty of rumors.

If there is one in the works, the earliest it would be announced would be mid-August (in a few weeks). That’s when Minelab reports on its end-of-fiscal year earnings. They usually tend to make announcements of new products then.

If that is the case, you’ll still have to wait another year at least is my guess. They’ll need to manufacture and test any new models before mass production.

Final Review

The Minelab CTX 3030 metal detector is a high-end device that offers many features and settings to the user.

It is worth the price because it delivers on its promises of finding metals quickly and easily. The only drawback may be its cost, but the benefits outweigh this disadvantage.

With the inclusion of high-end tech in the CTX, detection depth averages around 10 to 15 inches.

Granted, this can change given the mineralization of the soil and coil you are using. But, with the average depth being that high, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for.

I think we can all agree that the Minelab CTX 3030 is one of the best detectors on the market today. And it will continue to hold its value for many years to come.

Thanks for reading and good luck in your detecting adventures!