5 Alternatives to the Nokta Makro Simplex+ Waterproof Metal Detector

The Hazlewolke DD90 is the budget wildcard here. At £179.99 it undercuts the Simplex+ by a fair margin and gives you a large 14-inch Double-D coil, which can be useful for covering ground quickly on ploughed land. It also has 4 modes, backlit LCD, and pinpointer function, so on paper it looks well equipped. The trade-off is that this class of detector usually won’t match the Simplex+ for target ID stability, build refinement, or proven waterproofing in real UK field use. Choose this if you want a cheaper large-coil machine for casual detecting and don’t mind a bit less polish.

The Minelab Vanquish 340 is the best choice here for people who want simple multi-frequency performance. Its Multi-IQ auto-select system is a genuine advantage over the Simplex+’s single-frequency VLF setup, especially on mixed ground and in trashy sites where target separation matters. The V10 10"x7" Double-D coil is a sensible all-round size, and the three detect modes keep things easy. What you lose is full waterproofing and the more rugged, do-it-all feel of the Simplex+. If you mainly detect fields and parks and want better handling of difficult ground, this is a strong upgrade path.

The Nokta FINDX PRO is the most obvious in-brand alternative for beginners and value hunters. At £169 it is cheaper than the Simplex+ and comes as a complete kit with headphones, carry bag, and digger, which makes it attractive for a first setup. It is fully waterproof, has pinpoint, USB rechargeability, and a backlit LCD, so it covers the basics very well. Compared with the Simplex+, it is more of an entry-level package than a serious all-rounder: you’re paying less, but you’re also getting a machine that’s aimed at ease of use rather than maximum depth or advanced handling. Good for newcomers, less compelling for experienced detectorists.

The Nokta|Makro PulseDive Yellow is not a direct replacement, but it makes sense if your real priority is water hunting. As a pinpointer-style detector, it’s far more compact than the Simplex+ and ideal for surf, shallow water, or recovering targets quickly once you’ve already located them. The downside is obvious: it cannot replace a full-size metal detector for searching fields or parks, and target ID is much more limited. Pick this if you already own a main detector and want a dedicated waterproof recovery tool.

The Nokta Simplex Lite is the closest family alternative and probably the easiest swap for someone who likes the Simplex platform. It keeps the 9.5" waterproof DD coil, beach mode, all-metal mode, and vibration for underwater use, so it still feels like a proper waterproof detector. Compared with the Simplex+, it is usually a little more stripped back in features, but that can be a good thing if you want less fuss and a lower price at £199.95. This is the best pick for anyone who wants Simplex handling without paying for the top spec.