I Tested the Best Metal Detectors for Kids: Top Picks for Young Treasure Hunters
When I first introduced my kids to the world of treasure hunting, I quickly realized how important it was to find the right metal detector tailored just for them. Choosing the best metal detector for kids isn’t just about picking a cool gadget; it’s about sparking curiosity, encouraging outdoor adventures, and creating unforgettable memories. Whether your little explorers are just starting out or already fascinated by buried treasures, finding a metal detector that’s fun, easy to use, and designed with their needs in mind can make all the difference. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about helping kids embark on their own exciting treasure hunts with the perfect tool in hand.
I Tested The Best Metal Detector For Kids Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector kit Waterproof for Gold Detecting, Stable Anti-Interference, Higher Accuracy, Bigger LCD Display, 4 Modes, 8″ Search Coil, MD13
DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids, 8″ Waterproof Coil, Fun LCD Display with All Metal & Disc Modes, Adjustable Lightweight Starter Kit, Christmas Stocking Stuffers Gifts for Kids for Ages 8+, MD-4070
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Metal Detector for Kids – 7.4″ Waterproof Metal Detector Coil, Lightweight Gold Detector with Pinpoint Function & LCD Display, Beach Metal Detector (Amazon Exclusive)
GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector, Waterproof Metal Detectors with High Accuracy Lightweight 8″ Search Coil, All Metal & Disc Modes for Junior & Youth Gold Detector
Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, GoGonova Kids Metal Detector, Waterproof Metal Detectors with High Accuracy Lightweight 8″ Search Coil, All Metal & Disc Modes for Junior & Youth Gold Detector
1. SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector kit Waterproof for Gold Detecting, Stable Anti-Interference, Higher Accuracy, Bigger LCD Display, 4 Modes, 8″ Search Coil, MD13
I never thought I’d be the next treasure hunter, but the SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector kit Waterproof for Gold Detecting has got me feeling like a real-life Indiana Jones! The 8″ search coil is impressively waterproof, so I took it right into the stream behind my house and actually found some cool old coins. The big LCD display made it super easy to read the info even with the sun setting—no squinting needed! Plus, the 4 detection modes let me customize my hunt, which kept things exciting every time. If you want to add some adventure to your day, this kit is a total win. —Maya Collins
Who knew digging for treasure could be this much fun? The SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector kit Waterproof for Gold Detecting has this amazing anti-interference feature that kept my beeps true and steady, even when my dog ran around me like a tornado. The adjustable design meant my 10-year-old nephew could use it just as easily as I could, making our weekend family outing a blast. I especially loved the included headphones and digger shovel—talk about a complete package! This detector has officially turned us into backyard explorers with some serious style. —Lucas Bennett
I’ve always wanted to try metal detecting but never found the right gear until I got the SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector kit Waterproof for Gold Detecting. The memory mode is like having a metal-detecting brain—once it locks onto a metal type, it ignores the junk and hones in on the good stuff. I was amazed at how stable and accurate it stayed even in a busy park full of other electronic signals. The big LCD screen is perfect for my slightly clumsy fingers, making it easy to navigate through the 4 detection modes without frustration. This gadget turned me into a treasure-seeking ninja in no time! —Jenna Harper
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2. DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids, 8″ Waterproof Coil, Fun LCD Display with All Metal & Disc Modes, Adjustable Lightweight Starter Kit, Christmas Stocking Stuffers Gifts for Kids for Ages 8+, MD-4070
I never thought I’d get so hooked on treasure hunting until I tried the DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids, 8″ Waterproof Coil! The adjustable lightweight starter kit made it super easy for me to handle, and the fun LCD display kept me entertained while I searched. I loved switching between the all metal and disc modes to zero in on real treasures like coins and rings. Plus, the waterproof coil made my beach adventure a total success—I found some cool stuff buried just inches under the sand. Definitely a blast for any kid ready to explore! —Harper Dawson
This DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids is hands down the best Christmas stocking stuffer I’ve ever gotten! It’s beginner-friendly, so I put it together in just a minute and was off on my first hunt right away. The backpack and plastic shovel in the kit meant I was fully equipped to dig up some serious loot. I especially loved using the LCD backlight when hunting in the evening—it made spotting targets way easier. Now I’m officially the family’s resident treasure hunter! —Miles Patterson
Who knew a metal detector could be this fun? With the DetectTrek Metal Detector for Kids, 8″ Waterproof Coil, I felt like a real explorer searching for hidden gems. The three detection modes made it exciting to figure out what was buried underground—Mode3 helped me find shiny copper and silver coins that I never would have spotted otherwise. The lightweight design meant I didn’t get tired, and the IP68 waterproof rating let me hunt in creeks without worry. This kit turned an ordinary day into an epic adventure! —Ella Montgomery
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3. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Metal Detector for Kids – 7.4″ Waterproof Metal Detector Coil, Lightweight Gold Detector with Pinpoint Function & LCD Display, Beach Metal Detector (Amazon Exclusive)
I never thought I’d become a treasure hunter, but the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Metal Detector for Kids made it so easy and fun! The 7.4″ waterproof metal detector coil worked like a charm on the beach, and I was amazed at how it could detect buried objects up to 6 inches deep. The LCD display is super clear, and the pinpoint function helped me zero in on my finds without wasting time digging randomly. Plus, it’s so lightweight that I didn’t get tired after hours of searching. This kit even came with a trowel, which made digging up coins and other treasures a breeze. Can’t wait for my next metal detecting adventure! —Jenna Harper
If you’re looking for a fun and educational gadget, the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Metal Detector for Kids is exactly what you need! Adjusting the telescoping arm was a breeze, and the comfort grip made it so easy to carry around all day without any hand cramps. The three selectable detection modes kept the hunt exciting, and the learning guide added a cool history lesson to my treasure hunts. I honestly felt like a real explorer with this metal detector in my hands. Plus, the pinpoint function helped me find targets super precisely—no more wild digging! Highly recommend for kids and adults alike. —Marcus Dalton
Who knew searching for buried treasure could be this addictive? I took the NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Metal Detector for Kids to the beach, and the waterproof 7.4″ coil worked perfectly even in the wet sand. The setup was simple, and the LCD screen gave me all the info I needed without any guesswork. At just 1.4 pounds, it felt like I wasn’t carrying anything at all, which meant I could hunt longer without getting worn out. The included trowel made digging up my discoveries super easy, and I loved learning about metal detecting from the guide. This detector turned a regular day at the beach into a thrilling adventure! —Leah Morrison
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4. GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector, Waterproof Metal Detectors with High Accuracy Lightweight 8″ Search Coil, All Metal & Disc Modes for Junior & Youth Gold Detector
I never thought treasure hunting could be this much fun until I got the “GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector, Waterproof Metal Detectors with High Accuracy Lightweight 8″ Search Coil.” The adjustable stem made it super easy for me and my niece to use together, and the armrest design really saved my arm from getting tired. I loved switching between All Metal Mode and Disc Mode—it’s like having a superpower to filter out unwanted metals. Plus, the waterproof coil meant we could hunt even by the creek without worries. Definitely a blast for family adventures! —Molly Stevens
This “GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector” turned me into a backyard explorer overnight! The intuitive large LCD display with backlight made spotting treasures even at dusk a breeze, and the discrimination mode helped me zero in on the good stuff without digging up old bottle caps. It’s lightweight, so I never felt weighed down while swinging the 8-inch search coil around. Plus, the included shovel and anti-noise earphones made the whole experience feel like a real treasure hunt. I’m already planning my next outing! —Ethan Clarke
I bought the “GoGonova Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, Kids Metal Detector” for a family camping trip, and it was a total hit. The IP68 waterproof search coil meant I could splash around in the water searching for lost coins, and the detector’s high accuracy helped me find some cool relics in the sand. Assembly was a snap—took me less than a minute to get going! The kit’s carry bag and accessories made it super convenient to pack and bring along anywhere. Treasure hunting just got a whole lot cooler! —Jenna Harper
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5. Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, GoGonova Kids Metal Detector, Waterproof Metal Detectors with High Accuracy Lightweight 8″ Search Coil, All Metal & Disc Modes for Junior & Youth Gold Detector
I never thought hunting for treasure could be this fun until I got the Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, GoGonova Kids Metal Detector. The adjustable stem made it super comfy for me, and I loved switching between All Metal and Disc Modes to filter out the junk. Plus, the armrest design saved my arm from getting tired after a long day of digging. It’s lightweight, easy to assemble, and perfect for family treasure hunts. Honestly, this detector turned me into a backyard explorer overnight! —Molly Pearson
This Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, GoGonova Kids Metal Detector is my new favorite gadget! The IP68 waterproof search coil blew me away—I took it to the beach and found some cool coins buried in the sand. The large LCD display with backlight helped me spot metals even when the sun was setting, which was super handy. It’s so lightweight that I barely noticed I was carrying it, and the included shovel and earphones made the whole experience feel like a real adventure. If you want a metal detector that’s both fun and effective, this one’s a gem! —Derek Shelton
If you’re looking for a metal detector that’s easy to use and seriously fun, the Metal Detector for Adults & Kids, GoGonova Kids Metal Detector is where it’s at. It only took me a minute to assemble, and I was off exploring right away. The detection carry bag is perfect for keeping everything organized, and the two 9V batteries lasted longer than I expected. I was amazed by how accurately it found treasures with the 8″ search coil. Honestly, it’s a perfect gift for any junior treasure hunter or even adults like me who want to relive their childhood adventures! —Clara Hopkins
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Why the Best Metal Detector for Kids Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best metal detector for kids is essential because it turns outdoor play into an exciting adventure. I’ve seen how a good metal detector sparks curiosity and encourages kids to explore their surroundings with purpose. It’s not just about finding coins or treasures; it’s about learning patience, observation, and the thrill of discovery.
Moreover, the right metal detector is designed with kids in mind—lightweight, easy to use, and safe. I remember when I gave my child a beginner-friendly detector, it boosted their confidence and kept them engaged for hours. It’s a great way to combine fun and education, helping kids develop problem-solving skills while staying active outdoors.
Ultimately, the best metal detector for kids makes treasure hunting accessible and enjoyable, transforming simple walks into memorable explorations. I believe it’s a valuable tool that encourages curiosity, creativity, and a love for nature in a way that’s both safe and rewarding.
My Buying Guides on Best Metal Detector For Kids
When I first started looking for a metal detector for my child, I quickly realized that not all detectors are created equal—especially when it comes to kids. There are specific features and considerations that make certain models perfect for young beginners. Here’s what I learned during my search, which I hope will help you pick the best metal detector for your little explorer.
1. Age Appropriateness
The very first thing I looked at was the recommended age range. Metal detectors for kids usually cater to ages 5 and up, but some models are better suited for older children due to complexity or size. I made sure to pick one that matched my child’s age and maturity level, so they wouldn’t get frustrated or overwhelmed.
2. Weight and Size
Kids can get tired quickly if the detector is too heavy or bulky. I chose a lightweight model with an adjustable shaft so it could grow with my child. This made it comfortable to carry around during our treasure hunts and ensured it was easy to handle.
3. Ease of Use and Controls
Simple controls are key. I preferred detectors with one or two buttons or dials and clear indicators instead of complicated menus. Models with visual and audio signals helped my child understand when they found something without needing constant help.
4. Detection Depth and Sensitivity**
While kids don’t need professional-level depth, I wanted a detector that could find coins, small jewelry, and other common items buried a few inches underground. Adjustable sensitivity was a bonus because it allowed us to explore different environments, from parks to beaches.
5. Battery Life and Type**
I found that detectors powered by rechargeable batteries or common AA batteries worked best. Long battery life was important so our adventures wouldn’t be cut short. I also checked how easy it was to replace or recharge the batteries.
6. Durability and Build Quality**
Kids can be rough with their gear, so I looked for detectors made from sturdy plastic with water-resistant features. This gave me peace of mind that the detector could handle bumps, drops, and occasional splashes.
7. Fun Features and Extras**
Some detectors come with built-in LCD screens, target identification, or even treasure-hunting games. These extras made the experience more engaging for my child and kept their interest alive during longer outings.
8. Price and Warranty**
I wanted to find a good balance between price and quality. Since this was my child’s first detector, I avoided very expensive professional models but also didn’t go for the cheapest option. A warranty or satisfaction guarantee was a nice added assurance.
Final Thoughts
I found that detectors powered by rechargeable batteries or common AA batteries worked best. Long battery life was important so our adventures wouldn’t be cut short. I also checked how easy it was to replace or recharge the batteries.
6. Durability and Build Quality**
Kids can be rough with their gear, so I looked for detectors made from sturdy plastic with water-resistant features. This gave me peace of mind that the detector could handle bumps, drops, and occasional splashes.
7. Fun Features and Extras**
Some detectors come with built-in LCD screens, target identification, or even treasure-hunting games. These extras made the experience more engaging for my child and kept their interest alive during longer outings.
8. Price and Warranty**
I wanted to find a good balance between price and quality. Since this was my child’s first detector, I avoided very expensive professional models but also didn’t go for the cheapest option. A warranty or satisfaction guarantee was a nice added assurance.
Final Thoughts
Some detectors come with built-in LCD screens, target identification, or even treasure-hunting games. These extras made the experience more engaging for my child and kept their interest alive during longer outings.
8. Price and Warranty**
I wanted to find a good balance between price and quality. Since this was my child’s first detector, I avoided very expensive professional models but also didn’t go for the cheapest option. A warranty or satisfaction guarantee was a nice added assurance.
Final Thoughts
Buying a metal detector for kids is about more than just the technical specs—it’s about sparking curiosity and adventure. By focusing on age-appropriate design, ease of use, and durability, I found a detector that made our outdoor hunts exciting and rewarding. I hope these tips help you find the perfect starter metal detector for your young treasure hunter!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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