Imagine the thrill of discovery, the glint of forgotten treasure unearthed from the backyard! What if your child could experience that excitement firsthand, turning ordinary afternoons into grand adventures? For many parents, the idea of a metal detector sparks joy, but the reality of choosing one for a child can feel overwhelming. So many models exist, and it’s tough to know which one is safe, durable, and actually fun for little explorers.
You want to fuel your child’s curiosity and encourage outdoor play, but sifting through technical jargon and comparing features can be frustrating. You might be wondering: Is it too complicated? Will it break easily? Is it worth the investment? This post is here to guide you through the exciting world of kids’ metal detectors. We’ll break down what makes a great detector for young treasure hunters, what to look for, and how to ensure a fantastic experience for everyone.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in selecting a metal detector that will spark endless hours of imaginative play and exciting discoveries. Let’s dive in and find the perfect tool to unlock your child’s inner adventurer!
Our Top 5 Metal Detector For Kids Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for Kids – Kids Metal Detector with 7.4″ Waterproof Coil & Trowel | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
OMMO Metal Detector | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
 |
Metal Detector for Kids | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
Metal Detector for Adults & Kids | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Metal Detector For Kids Detailed Reviews
1. National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for Kids – Kids Metal Detector with 7.4″ Waterproof Coil & Trowel
Rating: 8.6/10
Embark on an exciting treasure hunt with the National Geographic Starter Metal Detector Kit for Kids! This kit is designed to ignite curiosity and inspire adventure in young explorers. It’s perfect for a day at the beach or exploring the backyard. Kids can easily discover hidden gems and learn about the world around them.
What We Like:
- The 7.4″ waterproof coil is great for beach detecting and can find objects up to 4 inches deep.
- It’s super easy to use, with simple on/off controls and clear LED and audio alerts when treasure is found.
- The adjustable arm length and comfort grip make it comfortable for kids of all sizes to use for hours.
- It’s incredibly lightweight at only 1.2 pounds, so kids can carry it around all day without getting tired.
- The included trowel makes digging up discoveries a breeze, and the full-color learning guide adds an educational twist.
- National Geographic is known for high-quality educational toys and provides excellent customer service.
What Could Be Improved:
- The detection depth of 4 inches might limit the discovery of deeper treasures.
- While waterproof up to 4 inches, it’s not fully submersible for underwater adventures.
This kit offers a fantastic introduction to metal detecting for children. It’s an engaging way to learn and play, making it a memorable gift for any young adventurer.
2. OMMO Metal Detector
Rating: 9.1/10
Embark on exciting treasure hunts with the OMMO Metal Detector! This adjustable, lightweight detector is perfect for young explorers, featuring a fun LCD display and everything needed to start discovering hidden treasures.
What We Like:
- The adorable puppy and bone animation on the LCD screen makes searching extra fun for kids.
- It’s super easy to adjust the stem from 27.5 to 37.8 inches, fitting kids of many sizes.
- The detector is very light, weighing only 1.24lb, so little hands can hold it easily for long periods.
- Setting it up is a breeze with just three simple steps, and it’s made from safe ABS material.
- It comes with all the accessories you need: a 9V battery, a plastic shovel, and a plastic rake.
- The 6-inch search coil can find metal objects like coins up to 4 inches deep.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Kindly Tip” about environmental calibration might be a bit confusing for very young children to understand if the detector doesn’t respond immediately.
- The depth of detection (up to 4 inches) is good for introductory use but might limit finding deeper items.
- The recommended age range is 3-12 years, so older kids might find it less challenging.
This OMMO Metal Detector is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joy of exploration and discovery. It’s a gift that encourages outdoor activity and sparks curiosity.
3. Metal Detector for Kids
Rating: 8.7/10
Unleash your little explorer’s inner treasure hunter with the RM Ricomax Metal Detector for Kids! This waterproof wonder is designed for adventure, making every outdoor outing an exciting quest for hidden riches. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and packed with features that spark curiosity and encourage active play.
What We Like:
- The 7.4-inch search coil offers great sensitivity for finding treasures.
- It’s waterproof, so kids can search in the garden, park, or even on the beach.
- The adjustable stem fits both kids and adults, growing with your child.
- The LCD display and buzzer make it easy to know when something metal is nearby, with louder sounds for closer finds.
- It comes with two sand shovels and a carry bag, making it perfect for on-the-go adventures.
- Made from safe ABS material, parents can feel confident about their child’s safety.
- Its attractive, child-friendly design is sure to be a hit.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the coil and stem are waterproof, the LCD screen is not, limiting some water-based searching.
- The product is designed for ages 8-12, so younger or older children might not find it as suitable.
This metal detector is a fantastic way to get kids outdoors, active, and engaged with the world around them. It’s a gift that truly keeps on giving, fostering exploration and family fun.
4. SUNPOW Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Rating: 8.8/10
Unearth hidden treasures with the SUNPOW Metal Detector MD13! This versatile detector is designed for both curious kids and seasoned treasure hunters. Its advanced features make finding lost coins, jewelry, and even gold a fun and rewarding experience. Get ready for exciting outdoor adventures with this reliable and easy-to-use device.
What We Like:
- The detector offers excellent stability and resists interference, so you get more accurate readings.
- You can choose from four different detection modes: All Metal, Notch, Pinpoint, and Memory. This lets you find what you’re looking for and ignore junk.
- The large LCD screen makes it easy to see your results, even in bright sunlight or dim light.
- The 8-inch search coil is waterproof (IP68 rated). This means you can search in shallow water like rivers and shorelines.
- It’s adjustable for everyone, from kids to adults. You can set it up for a comfortable experience.
- This kit comes with everything you need: the detector, a digger shovel, headphones, and two batteries. It’s a fantastic gift idea.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the coil is waterproof, the control box is not. Be careful not to submerge the entire unit.
- The “Memory mode” is a neat idea, but it might take some practice to master and effectively use it for specific metal types.
The SUNPOW Metal Detector MD13 is a top-notch choice for anyone looking to start metal detecting or upgrade their current gear. It provides a great balance of features, performance, and value, making it an ideal companion for your next treasure hunt.
5. Metal Detector for Adults & Kids
Rating: 8.6/10
Unearth hidden treasures with the GoGonova Metal Detector, a versatile tool perfect for both kids and adults! This waterproof metal detector boasts high accuracy and a lightweight design, making your treasure-hunting adventures more exciting and efficient. Whether you’re exploring the beach or your backyard, the GoGonova is ready to help you discover exciting finds.
What We Like:
- The All Metal Mode finds everything, while the Disc Mode lets you focus on specific metals, helping you find exactly what you’re looking for.
- The adjustable stem (39.3 to 51.3 inches) fits both kids and adults comfortably, and the armrest design makes long hunts easier.
- Assembly is a breeze, taking only about a minute, so you can start exploring right away.
- The large LCD display with a backlight is easy to read, even in low light, and shows you what you’re detecting.
- The 8″ waterproof search coil can detect metal up to 8 inches deep, and you can even use it in shallow water.
- It comes with a handy carry bag, shovel, anti-noise earphones, and batteries, making it a complete gift package.
What Could Be Improved:
- The included shovel is best for soft ground and sand; it’s not ideal for hard surfaces.
- While the search coil is waterproof, the control box is not, so be mindful of where you use it.
This GoGonova metal detector is a fantastic gift that promises hours of fun and exploration for the whole family. Get ready for exciting adventures and discover something amazing!
Unearth Adventure: Your Guide to the Best Metal Detectors for Kids
Looking for a fun and educational gift that gets kids outdoors? A metal detector for kids is a fantastic choice! It sparks curiosity, encourages exploration, and can lead to exciting discoveries. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect treasure-hunting tool for your young adventurer.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a metal detector for kids, focus on features that make it easy and enjoyable to use.
- Adjustable Shaft: Kids come in all sizes! An adjustable shaft lets you set the detector to the perfect height for your child, making it comfortable to swing and control.
- Lightweight Design: Heavy detectors can tire out little arms quickly. Look for models that are lightweight so kids can explore for longer periods.
- Simple Controls: Complex buttons and settings can be confusing. Easy-to-understand controls, like a single power button and a simple target indicator, are best.
- Auditory and Visual Indicators: Most detectors beep when they find metal. Some also have a light or a display that shows if something is detected. This helps kids learn what they’re finding.
- Water Resistance (Optional but great!): Some detectors can handle a little splash or even be used in shallow water. This opens up more places to explore, like the beach or by a creek.
- Target Discrimination (Basic): Some detectors can tell the difference between different types of metal. For kids, a simple ability to distinguish between iron and valuable metals is a good starting point.
Important Materials
The materials used in a kid’s metal detector affect its durability and how well it works.
- Plastic: Most of the detector, including the coil housing and handle, is made of durable plastic. Look for sturdy, impact-resistant plastics that won’t crack easily if dropped.
- Aluminum: The adjustable shaft is often made of aluminum. This material is lightweight and strong, perfect for extending and retracting.
- Rubber/Foam Grips: Comfortable grips are important for long treasure hunts. Rubber or foam padding on the handle makes it easier to hold.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a metal detector great or not so great for kids.
- Ease of Assembly: A detector that’s hard to put together will frustrate both you and your child. Quick and simple assembly is a big plus.
- Durability: Kids can be rough on toys. A well-built detector that can withstand a few bumps and drops will last much longer.
- Sensitivity: How well does it detect metal? A detector that’s too sensitive might pick up too much junk, while one that’s not sensitive enough might miss interesting finds. A good balance is key.
- Battery Life: Kids love to explore! Long battery life means more time for adventures without needing to stop and change batteries.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands specialize in making quality products for children. Researching brands can give you an idea of their reliability.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good metal detector for kids is all about fun and learning.
- Backyard Exploration: The most common use is searching the backyard for lost coins, old toys, or maybe even a hidden “treasure.”
- Park and Playground Adventures: Parks are great places to find forgotten treasures. Kids can learn to scan the ground carefully.
- Beachcombing: With a water-resistant model, the beach becomes an exciting new frontier for finding shells, coins, and other interesting items washed ashore.
- Educational Tool: Metal detectors teach kids about science, patience, and observation. They learn to identify sounds and visual cues.
- Family Fun: Metal detecting can be a fantastic activity for the whole family to enjoy together, creating lasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main purpose of a metal detector for kids?
A: The main purpose is to provide a fun, engaging, and educational outdoor activity that encourages exploration and discovery.
Q: Are metal detectors for kids safe to use?
A: Yes, metal detectors for kids are designed with safety in mind. They operate at low frequencies and are generally safe for children to use under adult supervision.
Q: How deep can a kid’s metal detector find things?
A: Most kid’s metal detectors can find items buried a few inches to about a foot deep. This is perfect for finding common items like coins and small trinkets.
Q: Do I need to buy batteries for the metal detector?
A: Most metal detectors require batteries, usually AA or 9V. It’s a good idea to check the product description and have extra batteries on hand.
Q: Can my child use the metal detector by themselves?
A: While the detector is easy to use, adult supervision is always recommended, especially for younger children, to ensure safety and provide guidance.
Q: What kind of things can kids expect to find with a metal detector?
A: Kids can find coins, bottle caps, pull tabs, old keys, small toys, and sometimes even interesting pieces of scrap metal.
Q: Is a metal detector a good gift for a birthday or holiday?
A: Absolutely! It’s a unique and exciting gift that promotes outdoor activity and sparks a child’s imagination.
Q: Do I need any special training to use a metal detector?
A: No, metal detectors for kids are designed for easy operation. Most come with simple instructions, and with a little practice, children will quickly learn how to use them.
Q: Can a metal detector help my child learn?
A: Yes, it helps them learn about different types of metal, develops their patience, and improves their observational skills as they learn to interpret the signals.
Q: Where are the best places for kids to use a metal detector?
A: Good places include backyards, parks, beaches, and playgrounds, as long as you have permission to search.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.