Single-frequency VLF detectors are affordable, light and discriminate well between targets, making them strong in parks and fields. Multi-frequency detectors run several frequencies at once, so they handle wet salt sand and mineralized soil far better while keeping good target ID. Pulse induction (PI) detectors ignore salt and heavy mineralization and reach deep, but discriminate poorly, so you dig more iron. Match the technology to your ground.
Detector technology decides where a machine shines. The same detector that is perfect in a park can be frustrating on a wet beach.
Side by side
| Single-frequency VLF | Multi-frequency | Pulse induction (PI) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discrimination | Good | Good | Limited |
| Wet salt sand | Struggles | Handles well | Excellent |
| Mineralized soil | Varies with ground balance | Better | Excellent |
| Small gold | Good at high frequency | Good | Good with the right model |
| Weight and price | Light, affordable | Mid to high | Often heavier, higher |
| Best for | Parks, fields, dry sand | All-round, beaches | Beaches, diving, goldfields |
Frequency basics
| Frequency | Strength |
|---|---|
| Low (about 3 to 8 kHz) | High-conductive targets such as silver at depth |
| Mid (about 10 to 20 kHz) | All-round coins and relics |
| High (about 30 kHz and up) | Small gold and thin jewelry |
Which to choose
- Parks, fields, dry sand: VLF. See choosing your first detector.
- Beaches and shallow water: multi-frequency or PI. See beach detecting.
- Goldfields: high-frequency VLF or PI. See gold prospecting detectors.
Browse detectors.
Common questions
Is a multi-frequency detector worth it?
If you hunt wet salt beaches, shallow water or mineralized soil, yes. For dry parks and fields, a good VLF is often enough.
What is pulse induction best for?
Wet salt beaches, diving and gold prospecting in highly mineralized ground, where depth matters more than discrimination.
Do higher frequencies find more gold?
Higher VLF frequencies are more sensitive to small, low-conductive targets such as small gold nuggets and thin jewelry.
What is discrimination on a metal detector?
The ability to tell targets apart, such as rejecting iron while keeping coins and jewelry.