Comparison Minelab Equinox 900 vs Minelab Manticore

The size of the standard coil (frame) of the metal detector. Theoretically, the larger it is, the deeper the device is able to “see” and the more space it captures in one pass, but the worse it is suitable for searching for small objects and the lower the accuracy with which it localizes them. At the same time, these characteristics depend on so many other factors that in fact, the size of the coil itself affects them very little.

Note that for coils (frames) of an elliptical shape, only one size can be indicated — along the length.

The operating frequency (or frequency range) of the metal detector. This is one of the most important parameters when choosing a device, because the optimal frequency for different cases will be different — depending on the size and material of the items being searched, the characteristics of the soil and other factors. Detailed recommendations on the choice of frequency for each specific situation can be found in special sources; And already on the basis of this information, it is worth choosing a specific model.

Note that the actual frequency at which the metal detector will operate also depends on the installed coil — they are usually made for a specific frequency. Therefore, to use the full capabilities of the device with the ability to adjust this parameter, you may need replaceable coils.

The greatest depth at which a metal detector is guaranteed to be able to detect a metal object. Note that this parameter is most often quite approximate, moreover, somewhat conditional. This is due to the fact that it is usually indicated for an perfect environment (low-mineralized soil, a fairly large object, the material of which optimally matches the frequency of detection of the coil, etc.), and even for such conditions it is difficult to derive an absolutely accurate value. Therefore, in fact, the detection depth is highly dependent on a number of additional factors (from soil characteristics to user skills) and can be significantly less than indicated in the characteristics. Nevertheless, the claimed depth describes the capabilities of the metal detector quite well, and it is quite possible to compare different models with each other.

Note that a large depth not only increases the cost of the device, but can also adversely affect its ability to detect small objects.

The deepest depth at which a metal detector is capable of detecting small coins and other objects of similar size. Many users buy a device with the intention of “hunting” for metal trifles, so manufacturers often indicate this parameter separately in the specifications. Due to the small size of the coins, their detection depth is usually much less than the total maximum detection depth (see above).

The number of individual discrimination programs provided in the design of the metal detector. In this case, discrimination means filtering the detected objects using a discriminator (see above) so that the device does not work on unwanted objects such as pieces of foil, bottle caps, etc. You can also configure such a filter completely manually, but this may require special knowledge and create difficulties for inexperienced users. To avoid this, some models may have preset programs instead of manual settings. Thanks to such programs, the user just needs to select from the list what type of objects the metal detector should react to, and all the necessary settings will be set by the device's electronics.

The number of pre-installed programs for searching for various materials. Their number reflects the capabilities of a particular model, allowing you to start working right off the bat.

Regular metal detector search programs include detection of coins, all metals, jewelry and relics. In some models, this list can be expanded with "Beach" programs, custom (user) detection mode, etc.

The longest possible time of continuous operation of the metal detector without changing or recharging the batteries. Usually, some “perfect” time is indicated for the most optimal mode: constant stable operation of the coil without unnecessary energy consumption for sound signals, display indications and other additional functions, fully charged batteries or high-quality replaceable batteries, etc. Therefore, the actual time of continuous operation is likely to be somewhat less (how much depends on the features of the work). Nevertheless, this parameter describes well the battery life of the metal detector and allows you to evaluate its suitability for work "in isolation from civilization" (as well as the estimated number of spare batteries that may be needed for a complete survey of the desired territory).

The total weight of the metal detector in the working position is with the installed coil and batteries (if both are removable, see above). This parameter is quite important, taking into account the fact that during operation the device has to be kept on the weight: long-term use can be very tiring even with a relatively small weight and the presence of an armrest (see above). Therefore, light weight is a noticeable advantage for any metal detector. At the same time, other things being equal, lighter models tend to cost more, so you can use another option — a shoulder strap that reduces the load on the hand. And for underwater metal detectors (see "Type"), this parameter is not particularly relevant, because. objects underwater lose a significant amount of weight.