Quest X10 IDMAXX Metal Detector Review UK

I’ve examined the Quest X10 IDMAXX to see if this travel-friendly detector delivers real results. With a massive Blade11 coil and a fully telescopic shaft, the build quality feels substantial for the price. It snaps up targets quickly on solid ground, but my field tests revealed a distinct weakness.

Before you grab your wallet, you need to understand exactly where this machine struggles to keep up.

Quest X10 IDMAXX Unboxing & Initial Setup: 9/10

The Quest X10 IDMAXX stands out immediately because the unit comes largely pre-assembled thanks to the new telescopic shaft design. I didn't need to fumble with complex assembly diagrams; I only had to attach the coil and adjust the armrest positions. It’s genuinely refreshing to find a machine that lets you hit the dirt in under ten minutes.

The bright, visual quick-start guide is foolproof, guiding even novices through the final steps effortlessly. Upon first opening the box, I noticed the professional packaging and the tighter, premium feel of components compared to the older models. A major highlight is how small it collapses—roughly 19 inches—fitting easily into my backpack right out of the box. While the kit includes almost everything needed, I think the lack of included wireless headphones despite the built-in module is a slight miss for this "Max" model. Getting set up is instantaneous.

Quest X10 IDMAXX Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 9/10

Beyond the quick setup, handling the detector reveals a sturdy construction centered around the incredible square aluminum telescopic stem. This design completely eliminates that annoying stem wobble found on cheaper machines. I appreciate how the shaft collapses, allowing for rapid height adjustments for kids or adults. Despite weighing around 1.2kg, which is slightly heavier than the X10 Pro, the balance is superior. It feels lighter during a swing because the weight distribution is spot on.

The handle is nicely textured, ensuring the unit won't slip from your hand when wet. Speaking of water, the IDMAXX is fully waterproof up to 3 meters, so you can hunt rivers or heavy rain without worry. I also like the orange backlit LCD; it's highly legible, though the screen lens can scratch easily if you aren't careful. The tool-free adjustable armrest rounds out a package that feels surprisingly premium for the price.

Quest X10 IDMAXX Key Features & Technology: 7/10

While many competitors now flock to simultaneous multi-frequency systems, this unit relies on a single 12kHz VLF frequency that excels at spotting high-conductivity coins but struggles in mineralized salt sand. The upgrade is the Blade11 coil.

This 11x10" DD coil is a massive improvement over older plates, providing you with superior ground coverage. I appreciate the modern audio specs, featuring a built-in 2.4G WireFree module and a USB-C port, though you’ll need specific Quest headphones for wireless freedom.

Navigating the tech is simple with four distinct search modes: Park, Field, User, and Gold. The Gold mode stands out by offering a pseudo-all-metal threshold operation, a rare treat at this price point. Finally, the 1000mAh Li-Po battery is a convenience winner. It charges via USB-C and delivers over 12 hours of run time. This eliminates the recurring cost of AA batteries, ensuring the machine remains ready for your next hunt.

Quest X10 IDMAXX In‑the‑Field Performance Review: 8/10

Even though this detector resides in a budget-friendly bracket, the Blade11 coil punches deep, easily locating coin-sized targets at 10 to 12 inches in neutral soil. I didn't simply find deep silver; I was impressed by the detector's razor-sharp recovery speed.

It effortlessly picks out crisp non-ferrous signals masked by nearby iron nails, a crucial capability for trashy parks. Pinpointing is equally precise. Unlike smaller elliptical coils, this large coil makes "X-ing" out targets straightforward, letting you dig smaller, cleaner plugs.

However, performance hits a wall on wet salt sand. Because it uses single-frequency technology, I experienced significant, distracting chatter near the surf unless I reduced sensitivity levels until depth suffered. While the waterproofing allows for worry-free river hunting, the Target IDs can become unstable on deeper objects in mineralized ground. It’s undoubtedly a powerhouse for inland fields and freshwater wading, but it definitely struggles against conductive salt.

Quest X10 IDMAXX User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

Although many modern detectors bog you down with complex settings, the X10 IDMAXX embraces a strict "turn on and go" philosophy. I found the interface incredibly intuitive mainly because it lacks hidden sub-menus that typically confuse beginners.

You just select a mode and start swinging. The buttons offer distinct tactile feedback, which I appreciate since they remain responsive even when I'm wearing heavy gloves. Beyond the controls, the physical versatility highlights the user experience. The adjustable telescopic shaft transforms it into the perfect family machine, letting me resize it from a child’s height to a tall adult’s length in mere seconds.

Another genuinely useful touch is the LED flashlight on the back of the control box, which helped extend my hunts well into the evening. Finally, maintenance is effortless; I just hose it down after a muddy hunt, making gear care simple and encouraging you to keep detecting.

Quest X10 IDMAXX Value For Money: 8/10

Since this unit combines a fully waterproof design, a large detector coil, and a premium telescopic shaft for a budget-friendly price, it presents a compelling value proposition. You receive solid longevity; the build quality implies it won't break after one season. However, I must note the stiff competition. While the X10 IDMAXX beats rivals like the Nokta Simplex on compactness, it falls short against the Score series regarding Multi-Frequency technology.

If you strictly hunt salt beaches, that tech gap hurts the value calculation. Proprietary quirks also factor in. Although including a coil cover saves cash, the USB-C audio adapter is an annoyance if you lose it. You're not just buying performance; you're paying for a hassle-free ecosystem. Resale value seems decent, yet single-frequency machines might depreciate faster as the market shifts. Ultimately, for a beginner unwilling to spend over $500, this remains a sound investment despite fierce rivals.