When it comes to metal detecting, the thrill of unearthing hidden treasures can be a rewarding hobby or even a potential source of income. However, finding the right metal detector is crucial to making this hobby enjoyable and fruitful.
In this review, I’ll share my experience with the VEVOR Metal Detector, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and why I ultimately cannot recommend this product based on my experience and reviews from others.
If you’re still curious about trying it for yourself, I’ll also point out where you can purchase it.
My Experience With The VEVOR Metal Detector
When I first unpacked the VEVOR Metal Detector, I was optimistic. The product promises a lot on paper—detecting up to seven different types of metal, a waterproof coil, and a large LED display.
As someone who enjoys weekend treasure hunts, I was eager to see how it performed in the field.
Initially, I found the device easy to set up and use. The buttons were intuitive, and the display was clear and informative.
The lightweight design also made it comfortable to carry around for extended periods, and the waterproof coil seemed like a bonus for shallow water searches.
However, the excitement quickly turned to frustration as I began testing the detector in various environments.
I took it to a local park and a riverbed, expecting to find coins, jewelry, or even just interesting metal objects.
Unfortunately, the detector’s performance was inconsistent at best.
On several occasions, the device would beep excitedly, signaling that it had found something. But after digging, I would find nothing. To verify the issue, I set up a controlled test in my backyard, burying coins and small metal objects at different depths.
Despite adjusting the sensitivity settings, the VEVOR detector struggled to detect items buried more than a couple of inches below the surface. Even when it did pick something up, the signals were often unclear, leading to a lot of unnecessary digging.
This lack of reliability took much of the fun out of the experience. Metal detecting should be about the thrill of discovery, but with the VEVOR, it felt more like a guessing game with no real payoff.
What Worked (and What Didn’t)
The Good Stuff
- User-Friendly Interface: One of the first things I noticed was how easy it was to get started with the VEVOR Metal Detector. The controls are straightforward, with well-labeled buttons that make switching between modes and adjusting sensitivity levels a breeze. The large LED display provides clear information, which is particularly helpful when you’re out in the field and need to make quick decisions. For beginners, this ease of use is a significant plus, allowing you to focus more on the hunt rather than struggling with complicated settings.
- Lightweight Design: At just 4.72 pounds, the VEVOR Metal Detector is lightweight enough to carry around comfortably for long periods. I found this particularly beneficial during extended search sessions, where fatigue can set in quickly with heavier models. The adjustable stem also allows for customization to fit your height, which adds to the overall comfort. Whether you’re combing a beach or exploring a forest, the lightweight design makes it easier to cover more ground without getting worn out.
- Waterproof Coil: The 8.7-inch waterproof search coil is a plus if you plan on searching in shallow water. It adds an extra dimension to your treasure hunting.
The Not-So-Good Stuff
- Inconsistent Detection: This was the biggest issue for me. On multiple occasions, the detector beeped excitedly only for me to dig and find…nothing. I even tested it in a controlled environment, burying coins and jewelry at varying depths. The results were disappointing, to say the least. Coins were missed entirely or detected inconsistently, sometimes not at all. This made it hard to trust the detector in a real search scenario.
- Poor Depth Detection: Despite its claims, the VEVOR Metal Detector struggled to detect metals deeper than a couple of inches. Even in optimal conditions, it failed to pick up objects buried at more than 2-3 inches, which severely limits its usefulness.
- False Signals: The detector frequently gave false positives, picking up random junk instead of the metals I was hoping for. I found myself digging up a lot of trash, which quickly became frustrating.
- Build Quality: The overall build quality felt cheap. The materials used didn’t inspire confidence that this detector would last through multiple adventures.
Maintenance Tips For The VEVOR Metal Detector
If you decide to purchase the VEVOR Metal Detector despite its shortcomings, here are some maintenance tips to help you get the most out of it:
- Regular Cleaning: After each use, especially in sandy or wet conditions, clean the coil and shaft to prevent dirt and debris from affecting the performance.
- Battery Care: The detector uses six 1.5V AA batteries. Make sure to remove the batteries if you won’t be using the detector for an extended period to prevent corrosion.
- Check Connections: Regularly check the connections between the coil and the main unit. Loose connections can lead to performance issues.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store the detector in a dry, cool place to avoid damage from moisture or heat.
- Waterproof Coil Care: Although the coil is waterproof, it’s best to dry it off after use in water to prevent any potential long-term damage.
Comparing VEVOR Metal Detector With Other Brands
Given the issues I encountered, it’s only fair to compare the VEVOR Metal Detector with other options on the market. Below are a few alternatives that might serve you better:
- Garrett ACE 300
The Garrett ACE 300 is a popular choice among hobbyists and for good reason.
It offers superior depth detection and better discrimination between metals, which reduces the chances of digging up trash.
The build quality is also far superior, with a sturdy design that feels built to last.
While it’s a bit pricier than the VEVOR, the extra cost is justified by its reliable performance.
- Fisher F22
The Fisher F22 is another solid option, especially for beginners. It features a weatherproof design, which is great for all-terrain use. The F22 is known for its accuracy and depth, detecting objects up to 9 inches deep.
It also has a clear and precise pinpoint feature, something the VEVOR struggled with. Its price is comparable to the VEVOR, but the performance is noticeably better.
- Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV
For those on a tighter budget, the Bounty Hunter TK4 Tracker IV is a fantastic entry-level metal detector. It lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end models, but it gets the basics right.
It’s simple to use, reliable in detection, and durable. It might not have all the bells and whistles, but it outperforms the VEVOR in key areas like depth and consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The highest-rated metal detectors typically come from brands like Garrett, Minelab, and Fisher. Models like the Garrett AT Pro and the Minelab Equinox 800 are highly regarded for their performance, accuracy, and reliability across various terrains.
Garrett is widely recognized for making some of the best handheld metal detectors, particularly in their Pro-Pointer series. These detectors are favored by both amateurs and professionals for their precision and ease of use.
A good metal detector will consistently and accurately detect metals at various depths and in different soil conditions. It should have reliable discrimination features to distinguish between different types of metals, and it should be durable enough to withstand regular use. User reviews and testing in real-world conditions are excellent ways to judge the quality of a metal detector.
The best metal detectors for gold detection are typically from Minelab, such as the Minelab GPZ 7000, which is known for its advanced technology in finding small gold nuggets in mineralized soils. Another popular model is the Garrett AT Gold, designed specifically for gold prospecting with features that enhance sensitivity to gold.
Why I Wouldn’t Recommend The VEVOR Metal Detector?
After several test runs, my initial excitement for the VEVOR Metal Detector faded. The inconsistent detection and poor depth capabilities were deal-breakers for me. Metal detecting is all about the thrill of the hunt, and nothing kills that excitement faster than an unreliable tool.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned detectorist, I believe there are better options available that will give you a more enjoyable and successful experience.
If you’re still interested in purchasing the VEVOR Metal Detector despite these drawbacks, it’s available through various online retailers like Amazon and eBay. Just be sure to read through all the reviews to ensure you know what you’re getting into.
