When shopping for a high-performance metal detector under £1000, enthusiasts and beginners alike are spoilt for choice. This price range offers advanced technology, waterproof capabilities, and exceptional sensitivity—ideal for everything from beachcombing to relic hunting. After testing and comparing some of the most popular models in this bracket, here’s our verdict on the best value-for-money detector in 2025.
Winner: Garrett Vortex VX9
Price: Approx. £629
Why it wins: The Garrett Vortex VX9 strikes the perfect balance between cutting-edge features and ease of use. It offers MD-MF™ (Multi-Dimensional Multi-Frequency) technology, waterproof build quality, and a sleek, responsive digital interface. Its multi-frequency detection enhances accuracy in mineralized soil, making it a superb all-rounder for coin shooting, beach hunting, and relic exploration.
Pros:
- Simultaneous multi-frequency for superior target separation
- Fully waterproof design (coil and control box)
- Intuitive display with target ID and depth indicator
- Lightweight and ergonomic
Cons:
- Slight learning curve for beginners
- Limited aftermarket coil options (currently)
Runner-Up: Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack
Price: Approx. £589
Why we like it: For half the price of the VX9, the Vanquish 540 delivers surprising performance. It includes Minelab’s Multi-IQ tech, excellent iron bias control, and a wireless headphone system. It’s not fully waterproof (only the coil is), but for land-based detection and dry sand, it’s incredibly capable.
Pros:
- Multi-IQ simultaneous frequency
- Great target separation and iron discrimination
- Comes with both V8 and V12 coils
- Simple interface – beginner friendly
Cons:
- Control box is not waterproof
- Limited manual ground balancing
Third Place: Nokta Legend WHP
Price: Approx. £799
Why it’s solid: The Nokta Legend is a rising star with true simultaneous multi-frequency, fully waterproof construction, and built-in Bluetooth headphones. It’s robust, modern, and loaded with features like adjustable recovery speed and ferrous/non-ferrous tone breaks.
Pros:
- Great value for multi-frequency tech
- Waterproof to 3 meters
- Customizable tones and filtering options
- Comes with wireless headphones
Cons:
- Menu navigation isn’t the most intuitive
- Heavier than competitors
Final Verdict
The Garrett Vortex VX9 takes the crown for the best metal detector under £1000 thanks to its impressive multi-frequency detection, waterproof design, and professional-grade performance. While the Vanquish 540 offers great value for casual users, and the Nokta Legend shines with features at a fair price, the VX9 simply delivers the most balanced and future-proof experience in this category.
Best for: Serious hobbyists and semi-professionals who want top-tier performance without breaking the £1,000 barrier.
| Feature | Garrett Vortex VX9 | Minelab Vanquish 540 Pro Pack | Nokta Legend WHP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (approx.) | £629 | £589 | £799 |
| Detection Technology | MD-MF™ Multi-Frequency | Multi-IQ Simultaneous Frequency | True Simultaneous Multi-Frequency |
| Waterproofing | Fully waterproof (up to 3m) | Coil only | Fully waterproof (up to 3m) |
| Display | Advanced digital LCD | Simple LCD with backlight | LCD with detailed interface |
| Audio | Wired headphones | Wireless headphones included | Bluetooth wireless headphones |
| Target ID | Numeric + audio tones | Numeric + audio tones | Numeric + customizable tones |
| Ground Balance | Manual & Auto | Auto only | Manual, Auto & Tracking |
| Ergonomics | Lightweight, adjustable | Lightweight, adjustable | Heavier, rugged build |
| Best For | All-terrain, serious hobbyists | Beginners to intermediate | Intermediate to advanced users |
| Pros | Multi-frequency, waterproof, great UI | Great value, easy to use | Feature-rich, waterproof |
| Cons | Slight learning curve | Not fully waterproof | Slightly bulky, less intuitive UI |