The Best Metal Detector For Kids To Hunt For Treasure

kids digging at beach while playingGoing to the beach is so much fun for kids – and adults too! The wind and the waves along with the sun feel great as you are running around playing.

Nothing instills a sense of adventures like hunting for treasure, which is why we look at the best metal detector for kids to make for an exciting day while you are at the beach or park.

Using a metal detector keeps your children engaged in a fun, outdoor activity that is sure to create lasting memories that will bring a smile to their face and yours for years. The lure of the unknown is fun. You never know what you are going to find as you search around for jewelry, coins, and more.

Metal detectors are pretty easy to use, especially the ones we look at. It is a fun past time and can turn into a hobby of a lifetime. Professional-grade metal detectors can be quite expensive, but that doesn’t have to stop you and kids from getting started with a reasonably priced unit to enjoy time outside in the pursuit of riches.

So let’s get right to it. Our Pick For The Best Metal Detector For Kids is the RM RICOMAX 7.4 Inch Metal Detector for Kids. You can see our full review below, or if you want to see it on Amazon, you can click here.

We look at five solid options for kids including young adults. Some of the models are adjustable so they will grow with your kids, or allow and adult to use them pretty easily as well.

Preview
Most Popular
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector - Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids with 7.5" Waterproof Dual Coil, Lightweight Design Great for Treasure Hunting Beginners
Metal Detector for Kids - Kid Metal Detector Junior 7.4 Inch Waterproof Search Coil Junior Metal Detector LCD 24 Inch to 35 Inch Adjustable Stem Buzzer Vibration Sound 2 Pouds Lightweight Easy to Use
Best Kids Overall
RM RICOMAX Kids Metal Detector - Junior Metal Detector with LCD Display IP68 Waterproof & 2 Lb Lightweight Best Gift for Kids 24 to 35'' Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids Best Toy for Boys, Yellow
Best Teen Choice
DR.ร–TEK Metal Detector for Adults Professional, Gold Metal Detector, Pinpoint & Exclusive Memory Mode, Higher Accuracy, IP68 Waterproof Coil, Bigger Backlit LCD Display, New Advanced DSP Chip, Red
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Adults & Kids - High-Accuracy Metal Detector Waterproof LCD Display [PP Function & DISC Mode & Distinctive Audio Prompt] 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil (GC-1028) , Black
Metal Detector
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior
RM Ricomax 7.4 Kids
RM Ricomax Gold
DR.OTEK
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector
Category
Most Popular
Childs Metals Detector
Best Kids Overall
Best teen to adult
pre-teen and teens
Length
24" - 39"
24" - 35"
24" - 35"
22"
24" - 35"
Weight
1.4 lbs
2 lbs
2.94 lbs
4.34
2.31
Rating
Reviews
9,336 Reviews
1,479 Reviews
1,399 Reviews
5,173 Reviews
3,303 Reviews
Price
Price not available
$69.99
$79.99
Price not available
Price not available
Most Popular
Preview
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector - Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids with 7.5" Waterproof Dual Coil, Lightweight Design Great for Treasure Hunting Beginners
Metal Detector
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior
Category
Most Popular
Length
24" - 39"
Weight
1.4 lbs
Rating
Reviews
9,336 Reviews
Price
Price not available
Preview
Metal Detector for Kids - Kid Metal Detector Junior 7.4 Inch Waterproof Search Coil Junior Metal Detector LCD 24 Inch to 35 Inch Adjustable Stem Buzzer Vibration Sound 2 Pouds Lightweight Easy to Use
Metal Detector
RM Ricomax 7.4 Kids
Category
Childs Metals Detector
Length
24" - 35"
Weight
2 lbs
Rating
Reviews
1,479 Reviews
Price
$69.99
Best Kids Overall
Preview
RM RICOMAX Kids Metal Detector - Junior Metal Detector with LCD Display IP68 Waterproof & 2 Lb Lightweight Best Gift for Kids 24 to 35'' Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids Best Toy for Boys, Yellow
Metal Detector
RM Ricomax Gold
Category
Best Kids Overall
Length
24" - 35"
Weight
2.94 lbs
Rating
Reviews
1,399 Reviews
Price
$79.99
Best Teen Choice
Preview
DR.ร–TEK Metal Detector for Adults Professional, Gold Metal Detector, Pinpoint & Exclusive Memory Mode, Higher Accuracy, IP68 Waterproof Coil, Bigger Backlit LCD Display, New Advanced DSP Chip, Red
Metal Detector
DR.OTEK
Category
Best teen to adult
Length
22"
Weight
4.34
Rating
Reviews
5,173 Reviews
Price
Price not available
Preview
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Adults & Kids - High-Accuracy Metal Detector Waterproof LCD Display [PP Function & DISC Mode & Distinctive Audio Prompt] 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil (GC-1028) , Black
Metal Detector
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector
Category
pre-teen and teens
Length
24" - 35"
Weight
2.31
Rating
Reviews
3,303 Reviews
Price
Price not available

Metal Detector Models Reviewed

We review the top 5 metal detectors for kids. The models go across the spectrum from young kids to older teens and young adults. Here are the 5 models we look at.

Best Metal Detector For Kids

1. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector

best metal detector for kids 1 - national geographic

If youโ€™re looking for the best metal detector for kids, this is certainly the most popular choice on the market. This detector has been created by Minelab, which is significant, as they are pretty much known as kings in the field of metal detection! If you do a little bit of digging online, you will see what we are talking about. They often pop up in the top product lists, and so it is no surprise to see them make an appearance here.

If you do not mind spending a little bit more for a quality product, this will be the best childโ€™s metal detector for you.ย 

The search coil will reach 12 inches underneath the soil, with the coil itself being 10 inches square. When compared with the adult versions, it is smaller, as you would expect. The weight is kept down to 2.3 pounds, making sure it is more than manageable for small arms. In fact, it even comes with an arm strap, which we definitely think is a must when youโ€™re looking for a metal detector for a child.

While it is compact and light, it still packs a powerful punch. Plus, the metal detector is telescopic, going from 22 inches to 51 inches. This means it will grow as your child grows, ensuring you do not need to spend money on a bigger metal detector in the future.ย 

The good news does not end there either. Easy of use is a very common feature with this metal detector, as it boasts an easy-to-control discrimination so that trash can be filtered with ease. There is an all-metal mode, as well as an all-metal mode excluding aluminum and iron, and a no-iron mode too. The LCD screen is also very easy to use and understand.ย 

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector - Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids with 7.5' Waterproof Dual Coil, Lightweight Design Great for Treasure Hunting Beginners
9,336 Reviews
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Junior Metal Detector - Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids with 7.5" Waterproof Dual Coil, Lightweight Design Great for Treasure Hunting Beginners
  • FIND BURIED TREASURE โ€“ The 7.5โ€ waterproof dual coil has adjustable sensitivity to help avoid false positives. The detector will beep and flash an LED light when it locates metal and has a detecting depth of up to 6 inches deep for small coins and metal objects.
  • GREAT FOR KIDS โ€“ A telescoping arm provides length adjustment while a padded arm strap and comfort grip make this metal detector easy to use for kids of all sizes. Makes a great outdoor gift for boys and girls!
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE โ€“ The detector weighs just 1.4 lb (0.6kg). With the coil folded and arm support removed, it measures just 24-inches, and extends up to 39 inches long. Use at home, or pack it up for easy travel to any of your favorite treasure hunting spots!
  • FULL-COLOR LEARNING GUIDE โ€“ Learn the history of metal detectors, how the coils on your detector work to find metal buried underground, and much more in our detailed learning guide.
  • HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATIONAL TOYS - National Geographic is proud to make the highest quality hands-on science toys, and all our products are backed by exceptional service.

2. RM RICOMAX Blue LCD Adjustable Junior & Youth

 

best metal detector for kids 2 - rm ricomax

Next, we have this metal detector, which is from RM RICOMAX. It is not the first metal detector that you are going to see from this brand on the list. They have a pretty good reputation in the industry, and they are known for creating some of the most exciting and innovative metal detectors across the world. Not only this, but they are also known for creating models that are perfectly designed for children and beginners, so it was really of no surprise that we found a number of their products so impressive.ย 

With this model, it is all of the essentials that are needed to ensure that your child enjoys their first metal detection outing. Letโ€™s start by looking at the depth capabilities of this metal detector. When it comes to small metallic items like bracelets, rinks, and coins, this device is able to read them up to three inches in depth. Bigger objects, though, can be read from five inches. This may not sound like huge amounts, but it is perfect for a childโ€™s metal detector.ย 

Another benefit associated with this metal detector is the volume settings. The unique volume settings make sure your child is never going to miss some gold! The meter will indicate the strength of the signal, and you will also have a volume control feature that helps your child know when they are getting close to metals. Itโ€™s like a game of โ€œhot or coldโ€ basically! These volume and signal controls will ensure that your child never misses a beat.

Finally, with this metal detector, you are going to get a very durable and robust product, so you can be sure that it will last your child for many years to come. It boasts a weather-resistant and rustproof design.

Metal Detector for Kids - Kid Metal Detector Junior 7.4 Inch Waterproof Search Coil Junior Metal Detector LCD 24 Inch to 35 Inch Adjustable Stem Buzzer Vibration Sound 2 Pouds Lightweight Easy to Use
1,479 Reviews
Metal Detector for Kids - Kid Metal Detector Junior 7.4 Inch Waterproof Search Coil Junior Metal Detector LCD 24 Inch to 35 Inch Adjustable Stem Buzzer Vibration Sound 2 Pouds Lightweight Easy to Use
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ทThe best gift for kids๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท Waterproof Coil for Everywhere ๐Ÿ”ท๐Ÿ”น - The search coil is designed to be 7.4 inches, which makes metal detecting more sensitive. Both the adjustable stem and coil (not include screen are waterproof, which means that the gold digger is extremely perfect for metal detecting activities in the garden, local park, on the beach and all health outdoor locations. All season resistance.
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท Clear Detection by Buzzer & LCD ๐Ÿ”ท๐Ÿ”น - If there is any metal object, the an arrow and signal symbol will appear on the screen, meanwhile it sounds. The closer they are, the louder it sounds and the signal will be stronger.
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท Adjustable Stem for Each Families ๐Ÿ”ท๐Ÿ”น - 24 to 35 inches height adjustable stem adapts both children and adults. One press simply operation will let kids easily start metal finding. Lightweight and foldable search coil are exclusively designed for traveling or outdoor activities.
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท The Most Perfect Design for Kids ๐Ÿ”ท๐Ÿ”น - RM Ricomax metal detector is a perfect gift for your families. Enjoy the time to be with your child, let them go treasure hunt and help them to exercise their exploratory skills and curiosity. Two sand shovels and a carry bag are perfect for taking on the way and help children enjoy exploring and treasure hunting.
  • ๐Ÿ”น๐Ÿ”ท Safe & Lovely Children Design ๐Ÿ”ท๐Ÿ”น - RM RICOMAX always put safety as a priority. Our Kids Metal Detector is made by harmless ABS material, totally no risk to your kids, parents ompletely at ease. Moreover, the lovely profile is designed both by professional industrial designer and kids visual designer. It perfectly fits children's aesthetic. Trust me, the metal detector for kids will get along well with your kids.

3. RM RICOMAX Gold Metal Detector for Kids – 7.4 Inch Waterproof

best metal detector for kids 3- rm ricomax adjustable

As we said, RM RICOMAX is a great brand in the world of metal detectors, and so we are going to move straight onto a product that has been created by this brand. With this metal detector, you have something that has been designed for children, but can easily be used by adults as well. So, if you want to have a little bit of fun and get in on the action, you are not going to be disappointed with this choice.

There are a lot of product features that make this metal detector a real highlight. The LCD display comes to mind right away, as it is very easy to use and understand. If you want to go metal detecting in the dark, you wonโ€™t have any issues, as there is an LED light that is emitted on the LCD screen. This means that it can be used in dark places. Another benefit is that no assembling is going to be required for the product to be used either. All you need to do is fold it or unfold it whenever you want.

Another feature that makes this metal detector stand out from others on the market is that comes with a 20 per cent bigger coil, which will enable you to detect metals that are deeper in the ground. There is also a waterproof search coil incorporated as well, which means that your child will be able to go hunting in swallow bodies of water for metal. Of course, we must stress the importance of doing this safely. However, it is certainly a fun extra feature to have, and it is not something that comes with a lot of the metal detectors out there at the moment. Nevertheless, you do need to note that the LCD display is not waterproof, so this should never be submerged in water.

RM RICOMAX Kids Metal Detector - Junior Metal Detector with LCD Display IP68 Waterproof & 2 Lb Lightweight Best Gift for Kids 24 to 35'' Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids Best Toy for Boys, Yellow
1,399 Reviews
RM RICOMAX Kids Metal Detector - Junior Metal Detector with LCD Display IP68 Waterproof & 2 Lb Lightweight Best Gift for Kids 24 to 35'' Adjustable Metal Detector for Kids Best Toy for Boys, Yellow
  • โญThe best gift for kidsโญ
  • โญWATERPROOF COIL FOR ALL PLACESโญ - The search coil is designed to be 7.4 inches, which makes metal detecting more sensitive. Both the adjustable stem and coil (not include screen) are waterproof, which let you enjoy outdoor treasure hunts in all places (gardens, parks, beaches and forests, all health outdoor locations)
  • โญSAFE & LOVELY DESIGN FOR KIDSโญ - Its lovely profile is designed both by professional industrial designer and kids visual designer. It perfectly fits children's aesthetic. Moreover, our Kids Metal Detector is made by harmless ABS plastic, totally no risk to your kids. Trust me, the metal detector for kids will get along well with your kids.
  • โญHIGH ACCURACY & CLEAR DETECTIONโญ - The 20% larger coil allows you to quickly cover the ground. Simply wave this high quality and lightweight detector over the ground to detect objects buried up to 4 inches below the surface. If there is any metal object, the arrow and signal symbol will appear on the screen, meanwhile, it sounds. The closer they are, the louder it sounds and the signal will be stronger.
  • โญLIGHTWEIGHT & ADJUSTABLE STEMโญ - 24 to 35 inches height-adjustable stem adapts both children and adults. One press simply operation will let kids easily start metal finding. Lightweight and foldable search coil are exclusively designed for traveling or outdoor activities.
  • โญFREE OF ASSEMBLE & EASY TO USEโญ - The telescoping design means you donโ€™t need to assemble any complicated parts. Just unfold the detector and fold it back up again when youโ€™re done, making it especially good for children and beginners.

4. DR.OTEK Multifunction Metal Detector (best for older kids)

best metal detector for kids 4 - DrOTEK

Next, we have this great metal detector from Dr. Otek. There is a lot to love about this metal detector, including the fact that adults can use it as well, so you can join in on the fun! We would describe this as an excellent metal detector for all ages, especially beginners who are on a budget. If youโ€™re just starting out with metal detection, you cannot go too wrong with this option.

There are a lot of advantages associated with this metal detector, including the fact that it is also telescopic, meaning it will grow as your child grows. It also weighs just under 2.5 pounds, which is perfect for small, tired arms.ย 

One of the surprise features that comes with this metal detector, and is not present in a lot of the others, is the waterproof coil. This means that the metal detector can be used in ponds and rivers.ย  You do need to be mindful when doing this, though, as you could damage the detector if you get the control box wet, so make sure this stays dry. This definitely adds more fun to the equation, as it means you can go detecting in streams and rivers, so it is a really cool feature and it is something that even expensive metal detectors donโ€™t always have.

The LCD display is also very easy to use. When the coil is held over a metal target, a small bullseye will appear on the screen. We also found that this metal detector is very durable too. Weโ€™re not suggesting that you start smashing it over things, but it will certainly not fall apart!ย 

DR.ร–TEK Metal Detector for Adults Professional, Gold Metal Detector, Pinpoint & Exclusive Memory Mode, Higher Accuracy, IP68 Waterproof Coil, Bigger Backlit LCD Display, New Advanced DSP Chip, Red
5,173 Reviews
DR.ร–TEK Metal Detector for Adults Professional, Gold Metal Detector, Pinpoint & Exclusive Memory Mode, Higher Accuracy, IP68 Waterproof Coil, Bigger Backlit LCD Display, New Advanced DSP Chip, Red
  • TOP METAL DETECTOR FOR ADULTS. This adults metal detector kit is an exciting new addition for both professionals and enthusiasts. Offers 5 upgraded modes including Pinpoint Mode, All Metal, Discrimination, Memory, and Jewelry. Innovative Memory Mode allows you to only detect one metal type that you want. Locate exactly what you want in far less time.
  • LARGE METAL DETECTOR LCD DISPLAY has a big clear 3" x 2.2" screen that is easy to read. Backlight lets you work in the dark for a great deal more flexibility. 3 display modes to easily identify the type of metals you are detecting. Displays digital image and sound with multiple settings for customization.
  • 9.8" WIDE SEARCH COIL is so powerful it can locate a quarter coin up to 10" underground. This waterproof metal detector can find larger objects at even greater depths. The coil is IP68 waterproof and works well in shallow water.
  • ADJUSTABLE STEM & SENSITIVITY. 42.7" to 53.5" adjustable length suits adults of different heights and is also suitable for kids. With 5-level sensitivity, you can adjust the sensitivity to counteract some interference factors and find the target faster. Spend far less time detecting while finding more exciting precious metals and antique artifacts.
  • PERFECT GIFT. This is an excellent choice for travel, vacations, camping trips, and outings. It's a great birthday gift, holiday present, anniversary gift or give for Father's Day and Mother's Day. Buy yours now while we have this very popular new model in plentiful supply. Pease note that this option only includes a metal detector without accessories.

5. RM RICOMAX 10 Inch Waterproof Metal Detector

best metal detector for kids 5 - rm ricomax adult and kids beach

Finally, it is only right that we end with another amazing metal detector from this brand. After all, they are continuously bringing new and exciting products to the industry for us all to enjoy, and this option certainly falls into that category.ย 

This metal detector can be used by both children and adults, meaning you can both have a lot of fun. One thing that makes it stand out from the other products on the market today is the different modes of operation that you can choose from. There are three distinct modes, which means you can tweak the detector based on your environment and what you are hoping to achieve.ย 

You have the all-metal mode, which is designed to notify the user whenever any metal is in close proximity. You then have the pinpoint mode, which is designed to assist you when detecting metals by continually beeping. Finally, there is a disc mode, which enables you to determine specific types of metal. Therefore, you can eliminate metals that you are not interested in finding to make your search more accurate.

Aside from the points that have been mentioned, we love the user-friendly design of this metal detector, as well as the hyper-digital display, which is actually 20 percent bigger, so you have a helping hand when you are on the hunt for some elusive treasure.

RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Adults & Kids - High-Accuracy Metal Detector Waterproof LCD Display [PP Function & DISC Mode & Distinctive Audio Prompt] 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil (GC-1028) , Black
3,303 Reviews
RM RICOMAX Metal Detector for Adults & Kids - High-Accuracy Metal Detector Waterproof LCD Display [PP Function & DISC Mode & Distinctive Audio Prompt] 10 Inch Waterproof Search Coil (GC-1028) , Black
  • TRUE DISCRIMINATION MODE - This metal detector can detect metals including iron, aluminum, gold, bronze, silver and their articles in all-metal mode. Just press the button, you can simply set the target range Up to 7.1โ€™โ€™ inches deep or eliminate the metal you donโ€™t want. Then, you can accurately find the certain metal you want. The crossed frame is for items eliminated and two 9V alkaline batteries are required
  • HIGHER SENSITIVE & WATERPROOF SEARCH COIL - The bigger the search coil is, the higher the sensitivity. The increased size of the search coil to 10 inches makes metal detecting MORE EFFICIENT. And the WATERPROOF stem and coil enable you to use our metal explorer underwater, especially suitable for outdoor activities, on the beach or in the stream. But it is should be noted that the control box is not waterproof
  • MORE INTUITIVE LCD CONTROL BOX - A control box with LCD will simplify your metal detecting a lot. The detection mode, sensitivity level, battery condition, and volume level can be known at a glance. An arrow displayed below the target icon will clearly tell you detecting a object. The depth of the target is also displayed. Compared to the knob and dial, button and LCD are obviously more accurate and convenient
  • P/P FUNCTION & DISTINCTIVE AUDIO PROMPT - There are distinctive audio tones in our metal detector for different types of metal. So after a period of time use, you can tell what type of metal you've detected just by audio tones. And the P/P function enables you to pinpoint a target accurately. Operating steps have been written in the manual which comes with the metal finder. All we have done is let you find the target more easily
  • YOUR INVESTMENT IS FULLY GUARANTEED - We are confident that our metal detectors are manufactured under strict quality standards to give our customers the best experience. Any problems or questions just contact us via Amazon. We will do our best to provide perfect after-sale service for you
  • Care instructions: do not wash
  • Power source type: battery powered

Tips To Help You Chose The Best Metal Detector For Kids

Age Considerations

When choosing a metal detector for kids, you should always start by considering their age and size. There are several models designed for younger kids that very easy to use. They have a limited number of buttons and settings which is intentional. Older kids will have no problem using a metal detector with more settings and buttons.

Height Consideration

If you are sharing the metal detector with several kids that vary significantly in height, you should consider a metal detector that is adjustable in height. If they are all older kids, then this is not as much of a concern.

Weight of the Metal Detector

The weight of the detectors we looked at for kids varied from 1.5ย  lbs to 4 lbs. Younger children may have an issue with easily maneuvering a heavier detector, but overall even 4 lb metal detectors are pretty manageable for most kids.

A Few Metal Detecting Hacks & Tricks

Here a few metal detecting hacks and tricks to help you get started with metal detecting.

Get Your Kids Out Exploring And Searching!

Whether you are headed to the beach for a fun-filled day, or headed to the local park, having a metal detector for kids is a great hobby and outdoor activity. It keeps them active while engaging their sense of adventure. And you never know when you might strike gold! Get out and enjoy your exploring and searching.