Best Metal Detector Under $300 For Beginners

Top beginner detector under $300

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Select the options that fit your scenario best and click "Get My Recommendations". The tool will populate a comprehensive recommendation with product suggestions, advice, and supporting information based on your exact selections in real-time. Designed by an enthusiast in the category. Feel free to try it out as many times as you want!

Category:
Metal Detectors & Treasure Hunting
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Description

The best entry-level metal detector under $300 that won't miss coins or relics.

Use Cases

Ideal for complete beginners or gift buyers wanting a reliable starter detector for parks or yards.

Inputs/Variables Explained

Inputs cover primary hobby, terrain, depth needed, weight preference, and waterproof coil to find affordable detectors that are simple, stable, and forgiving for new users. These ensure the recommendation is lightweight and easy to swing all day. Limitation: under $300, advanced discrimination and depth are limited compared to mid-range models.

Output Examples

Best Metal Detector Under $300

For beginners looking to get into metal detecting, I recommend the Garrett ACE 200 as the best option under $300.

1. Garrett ACE 200

  • Price: Approximately $199.95
  • Depth: Detects coins up to 8 inches deep in light soil.
  • Ease of Use: The ACE 200 features a simple interface with just a few buttons, making it easy for beginners to operate. It also has a clear LCD display that provides depth readings and target identification.

Why Choose the Garrett ACE 200?

The Garrett ACE 200 is lightweight and designed for easy handling, making it perfect for beginners. It offers reliable performance in shallow conditions and is known for its durability and effective target discrimination.

Runner-Ups

2. Bounty Hunter Tracker IV

  • Price: Approximately $169.95
  • Depth: Can detect coins up to 8 inches deep.
  • Ease of Use: The Tracker IV has a straightforward interface with a simple dial for sensitivity and discrimination, making it user-friendly for newcomers.

3. Minelab Go-Find 44

  • Price: Approximately $249.00
  • Depth: Detects coins up to 10 inches deep.
  • Ease of Use: The Go-Find 44 features a compact design and easy setup process. Its smartphone compatibility allows users to track their finds and get tips, enhancing the overall experience.

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About The Creator

The Tool Collective Team

The Tool Collective are a group of diverse and talented hobbyists on a mission to create thousands of ultra specific, and helpful decision making tools that help others who share our passions and interests. Whether they help with buying decisions, or give you expert level advice for techniques or methods, we will make it. Metal detecting is something many of us grew up doing with our fathers and relatives, especially along the east coast beaches of the U.S. Not many things that bring you a sense a pure hope and wonder like wondering around trying to find a valuable piece of gold jewelry. It's a lot like fishing, you never know what you may catch. Here are a bunch of decision tools devoted to metal detecting enthusiasts and treasure hunters. Enjoy!

How It Was Made

Made with The Tool Collective's signature model. We combine an AI engine which process the user's input choices and runs it through our specifically designed logic and reasoning parameters for that tool to curate a precise and organized output. An enthusiast knowledgeable in the tool category designs the tools inputs and input choices, writes custom logic parameters, and defines the output format and requirements. The AI engine powers the system and creates a lightning fast, highly intelligent decision tool, which is always up-to-date with current pricing and publicly available information on whatever the tool is designed for. Combines all of the internets resources into one.

Tags

Metal Detector, Prospecting, Gold, Treasure Hunting

Date Published

December 24, 2025

Last Updated

December 24, 2025
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The tools and resources provided on this website are AI-powered and for informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and reliable results, the outputs generated by our tools may contain errors or inaccuracies. Users are responsible for verifying any results before making decisions or taking action. By using these tools, you acknowledge that we are not liable for any damages, losses, or consequences arising from the use of our tools or the information provided. Always exercise your own judgment and consult a qualified professional when necessary.

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