Nokta FindX Pro Metal Detector Review UK

I've spent several weeks testing the Nokta FindX Pro across various UK terrains to see if this budget-friendly machine truly lives up to the hype.

It’s rare to find a waterproof, collapsible detector at this price point that doesn't feel like a toy. While the setup is impressively intuitive, its performance in the field revealed some unexpected quirks that might change how you approach your next hunt.

Nokta FindX Pro Unboxing & Initial Setup: 9/10

One standout feature of the Nokta FindX Pro is how it arrives as a total turnkey solution, scoring a 9/10 for its comprehensive out-of-box experience. I didn’t have to hunt for extra gear because the package includes an 11-inch waterproof DD coil with a cover, wired headphones, a sturdy carrying bag, and a digging tool. You literally get everything required to start swinging immediately.

I found the setup impressively fast, taking me under five minutes to transition from sealed box to active hunting. The internal 2300mAh lithium battery arrives with a charge, though I topped it off quickly via the USB port. Its turn-on-and-go design utilizes a simple menu with preset modes for fields, parks, and beaches. Because it features automatic ground balance, I just powered it up and started detecting. The inclusion of a clear manual and a two-year warranty ensures you’re supported from day one.

Nokta FindX Pro Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 9/10

The Nokta FindX Pro really hits the mark with its ultra-lightweight 2.6lb frame, making it one of the most comfortable detectors I’ve swung during a long day in the field. Its balanced aluminum and plastic shaft doesn't strain my wrist, while the adjustable armrest ensures a snug fit. I love how the telescope design collapses down to just 25 inches; it’s perfect for tossing into a backpack or storing in a tight boot.

Build quality feels remarkably robust for an entry-level machine. The IP68 rating is the standout winner here, as I can fully submerge the entire unit up to 16ft deep. Whether I’m wading through riverbeds or navigating a rainy beach, the waterproof housing and backlit keypad feel solid. While the plastic components keep it light, they don't feel flimsy. This sleek, compact design offers professional-grade ergonomics that honestly put bulkier, more expensive rigs to shame.

Nokta FindX Pro Key Features & Technology: 8/10

Four automatic search modes—Field, Park, Beach, and Jewelry—serve as the backbone of this machine’s technology, allowing me to switch environments without fussing over complex settings. The FindX Pro operates at a fixed 15kHz frequency, which I’ve found strikes an ideal balance for locating coins, relics, and jewelry. It features a high-resolution 01-99 Target ID system and four distinct audio tones, helping me distinguish between ferrous junk and valuable non-ferrous hits before I start digging.

The tech suite includes essentials like notch discrimination, iron filtering, and a dedicated pinpoint mode for accuracy. I appreciate the threshold adjustment in All Metal mode and the frequency shift to kill interference. While there’s no manual ground balance, the automatic system manages most conditions effectively. The backlit LCD and keypad are brilliant for visibility. It uses a rechargeable lithium battery, ensuring I’m not constantly buying disposables to keep hunting.

Nokta FindX Pro In-the-Field Performance Review: 7/10

Testing this machine in various environments shows it's a real workhorse on beaches and in parks, especially when I'm taking advantage of its full submersion depth. Submerging the 11-inch DD coil up to 16 feet allows me to scan riverbeds where others can’t reach. I’ve found the 15kHz frequency provides reliable Target IDs for coins and jewelry in clean soil. The iron rejection is surprisingly effective, and the pinpoint mode helps me recover shallow targets accurately without excessive digging.

However, I’ve noticed its limitations in more challenging conditions. When I hit highly mineralized ground, the maximum detection depth drops significantly. The auto ground balance struggles with "hot" soil, and the five sensitivity levels don't offer enough nuance for deep relic hunting. While it's perfect for all-day portability and wading, it lacks the raw punch required for expert-level depth. It’s a solid, capable performer for most casual outings.

Nokta FindX Pro User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

While the performance limitations might give seasoned pros pause, you'll find the user interface is where this machine truly shines for everyone else. I’m impressed by the "turn-on-and-go" simplicity that lets me start sweeping within seconds of arriving at a site. The menu system feels incredibly intuitive, using a clear graphic LCD and backlit keypad that doesn't require memorizing a thick manual.

I find the preset modes—Field, Park, Beach, and Jewelry—provide a foolproof foundation, especially since the automatic ground balance handles the technical heavy lifting for me. Whether you're a child or an adult newcomer, you'll master the 01-99 Target ID and multi-tone audio feedback almost instantly. While I appreciate the ability to tweak sensitivity, volume, and frequency shifts, the learning curve remains refreshingly shallow. It’s a family-friendly device that prioritizes your time spent digging targets rather than fiddling with complex, overwhelming settings in the field.

Nokta FindX Pro Value For Money: 9/10

One major reason I recommend this machine is the sheer value packed into a single box. While many brands force you to purchase essentials separately, Nokta includes a waterproof DD coil, a coil cover, wired headphones, a carrying bag, and a digging tool for under £300. You're essentially ready to hunt the moment you charge the lithium battery.

Sturdy IP68 waterproofing up to 16ft provides a level of versatility usually reserved for rigs twice this price. I've found that the rechargeable system saves significant money over time compared to buying disposable batteries. The two-year warranty also adds peace of mind, ensuring your investment stays protected. It’s an all-purpose tool that tackles beaches and parks without requiring additional expensive upgrades. For anyone starting out, you won't find a more comprehensive kit that balances cost and performance so effectively. It’s easily one of the best bargains available today.