10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr 2024)

Find an affordable as well as high-quality gold detector that fits your budget on our list below!

S. M. Rosyida by S. M. Rosyida · updated on · price $62.71 - $449.00 · 596 views · 24 visitors liked products on this page

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Comparison Table

Product Image
1
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Four Simple Symbol Discrimination
Minelab
2
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Simple To Operate
Bounty Hunter
3
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Default Pre-Settings
Bounty Hunter
4
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Weather-Resistant Detector
Fisher
5
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Versatile Detector
Garrett
6
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Metallic Detecting Technology
Garrett
7
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): LED Illumination Feature
Minelab
8
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): iMack Technology
Nokta
9
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Excellent Backlit LED Display
NALANDA
10
10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr  2024): Sleek Design Detector
Fisher
Product Name Go Find 20 Metal Detector TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector Gold Digger Metal Detector F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector Ace 400 Metal Detector ACE 300 Metal Detector Vanquish 340 Metal Detector Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector Metal Detector Gold Bug Metal Detector
5 4 4 3 2 1 0 1 0 4
Features Four Simple Symbol Discrimination Simple To Operate Default Pre-Settings Weather-Resistant Detector Versatile Detector Metallic Detecting Technology LED Illumination Feature iMack Technology Excellent Backlit LED Display Sleek Design Detector
Dimensions 22.3 x 5.75 x 4 inches 28.25 x 10 x 6.25 inches n/a 22 x 8 x 5 inches 22 x 15 x 6 inches 22 x 11 x 5.25 n/a n/a n/a 28.3 x 6 x 10 inches
Weight 2.2 pounds 3.7 pounds 2.2 lbs 3 Pounds 2.49 Kilograms 2.8 lbs 2.6 lbs (1.2 kgs) n/a 5.44 pounds 3.04 ounces
Frequency 7.8 kHz 6.6 kHz 6.6 kHz 7.69 kHz 10 kHz 8 kHz n/a 12kHz 18KHz 19 kHz
Batteries 4 AAA batteries 2 9V batteries 9V alkaline batteries 2 AA Batteries 1 Lithium Metal batteries 4 AA batteries 4 x AA Alkaline Lithium Polymer 9V battery 2 AA
price $187.36 $99.96 $62.71 $220.24 $339.95 $254.95 $199.00 $254.15 $99.99 $449.00
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It is common to find some hobbyists, especially beginners, looking for both high-quality and low-cost gold detectors! We all know, as a beginner, you may not want to spend too much money, at least on your first buy of an ideal gold detector. Well, you’ve come to the right place since we’ve compiled a list of affordable gold detectors that are worth considering for their quality and functionality. Thus, simply scroll down to see our selection of the Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold, which includes great detectors under $500 to pick from. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In case you don't know...

What is the Difference Between a Metal Detector and a Gold Detector?

Gold detectors are metal detectors that have particular parameters that are appropriate to their purpose or target type. The majority of metal detectors are multi-purpose devices designed to detect iron, coins, jewelry, antiquities, gold, silver, copper, and other metals. Additional features on gold detectors are often added to improve performance in detecting gold and canceling out mineral signals in gold-bearing areas. A gold detector often has higher frequencies, different ground balancing methods, and a higher price tag.

What type of detector technology is best for you?

There are two different kinds of detectors:
1. VLF: Very-Low-Frequency single-frequency detectors can provide the high frequencies required for gold detection while also providing reliable discrimination.
2. PI: Pulse Induction detectors are known for maximum depth detection in mineralized ground circumstances since they’re built to be resistant to a variety of minerals that can obstruct gold searching.

Can Metal Detectors Detect Gold?

Absolutely. The gold itself is the most important element in determining whether a metal detector can detect gold. If there’s a large nugget within 8″ of the surface, nearly any detector will locate it. The smallest nuggets, flakes, and lode deposits, on the other hand, will be the most difficult to locate and will need features that gold-specific detectors are equipped with to detect.

How do Metal Detectors Detect Gold?

Metal detectors detect gold in the same way as other metals are detected. VLF and Pulse Induction detectors operate in different ways, but they both provide the same results – auditory and/or visual evidence of a detected gold object. However, there are additional variables than detector technology that determine whether a metal detector can detect gold efficiently. This covers the ground conditions, the size of the gold, as well as the user technique and expertise.

10 Reviews: Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold (Apr 2024)

Minelab Go Find 20 Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Four Simple Symbol Discrimination
https://www.amazon.com/

1.
Minelab
Go Find 20 Metal Detector

Four Simple Symbol Discrimination

5  visitors like this
price from
$187.36
Our opinion:

Starting with a detector that is primarily intended for beginners since it is a one-touch device that requires no installation. Furthermore, it is completely collapsible, making it extremely convenient to take with you wherever you go hunting. The device features a frequency of 7.8 kHz and an 8-inch waterproof coil, as well as four simple symbols for discrimination: foil, nail, ring, and coin.

Promising review:

Purchased this for my wife. She likes how light weight and easy to use it is. Built very well, and folds up small enough to put in most back packs.

by ROBERT HARTMAN

Dimensions 22.3 x 5.75 x 4 inches
Weight 2.2 pounds
Frequency 7.8 kHz
Batteries 4 AAA batteries
Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Simple To Operate
https://www.amazon.com/

2.
Bounty Hunter
TK4 Tracker IV Metal Detector

Simple To Operate

4  visitors like this
price from
$99.96
Our opinion:

It weighs around 2.5 pounds and is very simple to operate! This machine’s value for money has made it extremely popular, particularly among beginners. The sleek look of the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is supported by just two operational controls and a mode selection switch. It’s also good for detecting in tough ground conditions, such as on beaches and in heavily mineralized inland areas. 

Promising review:

This metal detector is great for any age. I bought it for myself just to have fun with and haven't even used it yet. The grandkids came over and their dad took them out treasure hunting with my metal detector. I was so glad someone else tried it before me since I didn't know how to use it yet. Watching them use it showed me how easy it was, plus they found some interesting things underground. I'm hoping to take it myself to the beach this summer and comb the area there now that I see how easy it is!

by Helen from Georgia

Dimensions 28.25 x 10 x 6.25 inches
Weight 3.7 pounds
Frequency 6.6 kHz
Batteries 2 9V batteries
Bounty Hunter  Gold Digger Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Default Pre-Settings
https://www.amazon.com/

3.
Bounty Hunter
Gold Digger Metal Detector

Default Pre-Settings

4  visitors like this
price from
$62.71
Our opinion:

You won’t need to make any further changes since it comes with default pre-settings! It also includes automated ground balance adjustment, so you won’t have to fiddle with any settings there. Obviously, the all-metal option will enable you to search for a variety of targets. However, if you’re searching for a particular metal, you may still use its discrimination function.

Promising review:

My 11y/o grandson loves Gold Digger Metal Detector so much he wanted to take it to school the next day! He's found money and all kinds of "interesting" things underground. You just need to use a garden shovel for safety. There could be sharp objects or used needles buried under the sand.

by patti

Dimensions n/a
Weight 2.2 lbs
Frequency 6.6 kHz
Batteries 9V alkaline batteries
Fisher F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Weather-Resistant Detector
https://www.amazon.com/

4.
Fisher
F22 Weatherproof Metal Detector

Weather-Resistant Detector

3  visitors like this
price from
$220.24
Our opinion:

It is suitable for both beginners and experts. It is, however, simple to use, so kids or beginners may use it to gain experience. It has ten frequency levels, allowing you to choose the metals you want. It’s weather-resistant, so you can work on a rainy day if you like. In any weather, you will have great results. This detector, on the other hand, is capable of detecting the kind of metal underneath it.

Promising review:

This is my first detector, I bought it 4-12-17, I did alot of research and comparing certain ones with this one,and read nothing but great reviews,I'm learning and with u-tube I don't see me having any problems,it was easy to put together and very light I'm so happy that I have it !

by Tommy

Dimensions 22 x 8 x 5 inches
Weight 3 Pounds
Frequency 7.69 kHz
Batteries 2 AA Batteries
Garrett Ace 400 Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Versatile Detector
https://www.amazon.com/

5.
Garrett
Ace 400 Metal Detector

Versatile Detector

2  visitors like this
price from
$339.95
Our opinion:

It is another tool that can be used in every weather condition. It can be used in the most adverse conditions, such as when it is raining. It has a watertight coil. It can be used in seawater, making it ideal for beach detecting. Furthermore, the target value depth indication indicates that you have been kept up to speed on the status of your metal. You may use earbuds to hear the ideal sound in your ear after you’ve found the metal.

Promising review:

Bought this for my husband. It came with an instruction manual and, after watching the video package on the Garrett site, it was so easy to work with. My husband loves it, it works so much better than the older (other brand) we purchased some 25 years ago.... Would recommend this package to all.

by Melissa Ogle

Dimensions 22 x 15 x 6 inches
Weight 2.49 Kilograms
Frequency 10 kHz
Batteries 1 Lithium Metal batteries
Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Metallic Detecting Technology
https://www.kellycodetectors.com/

6.
Garrett
ACE 300 Metal Detector

Metallic Detecting Technology

1  visitors like this
price from
$254.95
Our opinion:

You have options if you just wish to identify certain things. You may also benefit from a fantastic metallic detecting technology that allows you to detect aluminum, iron, or any other metal. You can choose to skip any kind of metal. This tool offers eight degrees of sensitivity, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. It has to be the most effective method of ensuring that you know what is best based on your job.

Promising review:

Just bought it today and got it delivered just in time before the sun to set. This is my first time using a metal detector, within an hour I found my lost wedding ring in my garden

by Josh

Dimensions 22 x 11 x 5.25
Weight 2.8 lbs
Frequency 8 kHz
Batteries 4 AA batteries
Minelab Vanquish 340 Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: LED Illumination Feature
https://www.kellycodetectors.com/

7.
Minelab
Vanquish 340 Metal Detector

LED Illumination Feature

price from
$199.00
Our opinion:

Minelab’s newest metal detector, the Vanquish, combines the power of several detectors into one. It has a 12-inch coil, a frequency range that may be customized, and a red LED illumination. With those features, of course, you can detect metals with ease.

Promising review:

The best budget detector out there right now since the Tesoro Compadre

by Jbry

Dimensions n/a
Weight 2.6 lbs (1.2 kgs)
Frequency n/a
Batteries 4 x AA Alkaline
Nokta Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: iMack Technology
https://www.kellycodetectors.com/

8.
Nokta
Makro Simplex+ Metal Detector

iMack Technology

1  visitors like this
price from
$254.15
Our opinion:

The Nokta Makro Gold Racer Pro Package Metal Detector is another option. It’s great for beginners, coins, gold, and relics.   When searching in discrimination modes, this machine also has the iMack technology, which reduces misleading signals produced by ground noise or hot rocks.

Dimensions n/a
Weight n/a
Frequency 12kHz
Batteries Lithium Polymer
NALANDA Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Excellent Backlit LED Display
https://www.amazon.com/

9.
NALANDA
Metal Detector

Excellent Backlit LED Display

price from
$99.99
Our opinion:

The 8.5-inch coil on this 18kHz high sensitivity VLF metal detector is used to discover small gold particles in shallow areas.  When you’re out in the field, the digital control box will provide you with all the information you need. The backlit LED display will show you the metal you’ve chosen, give you a depth indicator, include an in-built speaker, and notify you when your batteries are low.

Promising review:

This is the coolest metal detector that is so small and compact but has found us lots of little treasures while searching along the beach. It's waterproof and accurate too.

by Aimer L'infini

Dimensions n/a
Weight 5.44 pounds
Frequency 18KHz
Batteries 9V battery
Fisher Gold Bug Metal Detector - Best Cheap Metal Detector for Gold: Sleek Design Detector
https://www.amazon.com/

10.
Fisher
Gold Bug Metal Detector

Sleek Design Detector

4  visitors like this
price from
$449.00
Our opinion:

This metal detector by Fisher has a sleek appearance that puts a contemporary spin on an age-old hobby. Surprisingly light for a device of this type. The main control box is also compact. Overall, the device is simple and straightforward, enabling you to pick up and go. When it comes to detecting gold, the metal detector performs well on all fronts. The operating frequency is 19 kHz, which is much higher than the frequency required by most gold nuggets.

Promising review:

This was the third metal detector I've owned, and of the three this has to be the best. Easy to use and it's discrimination is fantastic. I would highly recommend this for someone wanting to move up to a more serious model like I did. There are a ton of videos on YouTube that showcase this detector if you want to see what you can actually do with one.

by K. R.

Dimensions 28.3 x 6 x 10 inches
Weight 3.04 ounces
Frequency 19 kHz
Batteries 2 AA

Conclusion

It’s not simple to find gold with a conventional metal detector. Gold has a lower density than iron or copper. It also has a low conductivity rating, making it undetectable by a weaker system. And, since we’ve included some gold detector products in our list above, we hope you’ll have no trouble finding the gold as you wish. Good luck!

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