How Good is the Minelab Equinox 800?

If you've been looking into metal detectors, you've probably heard about the Minelab Equinox 800. The Equinox 800 is well-known among relic hunters, hobbyists, and professional detectorists alike. It is often called one of the most versatile detectors on the market. But the most important issue remains: is the Minelab Equinox 800 worth the money, and how excellent is it?

In this comprehensive review, we'll examine the build, features, technology, performance, pros, cons, and how it compares to other models. You'll know by the conclusion of the Equinox 800 if it's the greatest choice for your detecting needs.

Overview of the Minelab Equinox 800

Minelab's Equinox 800, which came out in 2018, quickly became the best-selling detector in the world. The best thing about it is that it can work on many frequencies at the same time thanks to Multi-IQ Technology. This means that it can work with jewelry, coins, relics, and even small gold nuggets in a variety of ground conditions.

Technology: Multi-IQ simultaneous frequency
Frequency Range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz
Waterproof Depth: Up to 10 feet (3 meters)
Weight: 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg)
Price Range: Mid-to-high tier (~$900–$1,000 USD)

Because of its strength and adaptability, the Equinox 800 is a popular choice for detectorists who want one gadget that can do everything.

How to Use Minelab GPZ 7000?

Build Quality and Design

When building the Equinox 800, two important things to think about are how long it will last and how easy it will be to move. It's easy to use for long periods of time because it weighs less than 3 pounds. You may change the shaft, and the control pod's LCD screen is easy to read even in poor light.

Another big plus is that it is entirely waterproof and can be submerged up to 10 feet. Because of this, it is good for hunting in lakes, rivers, and other shallow waters.

It may take some time to get used to the menu system, but the buttons are easy to operate. But once you get used to them, the options for customization are great.

Technology and Performance

Multi-IQ Technology

The Equinox 800's key selling point is its Multi-IQ Technology, which lets the detector work at many frequencies at once. This means that it can find small and large metals, shallow and deep targets, and mineralized earth without having to change coils or settings all the time.

Frequency Options

The 800 can also work at specific frequencies (5, 10, 15, 20, and 40 kHz), but Multi-IQ is better at general detection. This flexibility is especially useful when you want to specialize. You can use lower frequencies to find coins that are buried and higher frequencies to find little gold nuggets, for example.

Depth and Sensitivity

Depth performance is great for the price range. In dirt that isn't too hard, detectorists often uncover coins that are 10 to 12 inches deep. It helps you tell the difference between targets in trashy areas by quickly recovering, which makes digging through rubbish less annoying.

Performance in Different Environments

The Equinox 800's versatility is one of the factors contributing to its great reputation.

Park Hunting: Great for coin shooting and jewelry hunting. Its target separation makes it easier to avoid bottle caps and pull tabs.
Beach Detecting: Multi-IQ gives it a serious advantage on wet sand and saltwater, where many detectors struggle.
Field Detecting: Relic hunters appreciate its depth and ability to handle mineralized ground.
Gold Prospecting: With high frequencies (up to 40 kHz), the Equinox 800 can pick up small gold nuggets, making it an entry-level gold detector as well.

Modes and Features

There are four primary search options available on the Equinox 800:

Park – optimized for coins and general finds.
Field – ideal for relic hunting in farmland or old sites.
Beach – specialized for wet sand and surf detecting.
Gold – tuned for small nuggets and gold-rich soils.

Ground balance, recovery speed, discrimination, and sensitivity are among the options that can be changed for each mode.

Wireless audio with Bluetooth headphones.
Rechargeable battery lasting up to 12 hours per charge.
Noise Cancel & Ground Balance for dealing with interference.

Comparison with Other Detectors

Minelab Equinox 800 vs Equinox 600

The Equinox 600 is cheaper, but it doesn't have several advanced features, such as Gold Mode, fewer frequencies, and fewer options for customization.
The Equinox 800 is a better choice if you want the most options, especially when it comes to finding gold.

Equinox 800 vs Garrett AT Max

Garrett AT People in the US like Max and think he's fierce. It doesn't work as well in saltwater as the Equinox 800 does.
The Equinox is better since it can do more things and has Multi-IQ technology.

Equinox 800 vs XP Deus II

XP Deus II costs more, is lighter, and has great wifi functionality.
The Equinox 800 is still a superior deal for detectorists who want high-end features without paying a lot for them.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Multi-IQ Technology (all targets, all soils, all the time).
Light and easy to hold.
Waterproof up to 10 ft.
Great speed of recovery and separation of targets.
Headphones that are wireless and have advanced features.
Able to look for gold.

Cons:

It takes time for beginners to learn how to use it.
More expensive than entry-level detectors.
Some misleading signals inthe ground with a lot of minerals

Who Should Buy the Equinox 800?

The Minelab Equinox 800 is best for: detectorists who are at least intermediate and want one detector that works in a lot of different places.
People who hunt in parks, fields, and on beaches a lot as a hobby.
People who want to buy a cheap machine that can mine gold.
If you're new to detecting and want something cheap, the Equinox 800 could seem scary at first. But if you really want to get into the hobby and want to get your money's worth, this is one of the better possibilities.

Final Verdict – Is the Minelab Equinox 800 Worth It?

How good is the Minelab Equinox 800? In short, it's one of the best all-around detectors you can get right now. Its Multi-IQ technology, many search modes, waterproof design, and ability to find gold make it a great choice for practically any detecting situation.

Even if the price may be exorbitant for beginners, the features and long-term reliability make it a good investment for anyone who is serious about metal detecting.

If you want a detector that can work in parks, fields, beaches, and even for gold panning, the Equinox 800 is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is the Minelab Equinox 800 waterproof?

Yes, up to ten feet (3 meters), it is completely waterproof.

Can the Equinox 800 detect gold?

Indeed. Because of its high frequencies (20 and 40 kHz), it can be used for prospecting for gold.

What is the depth range of the Equinox 800?

Depending on the soil, it can find coins anywhere between 10 and 12 inches below the surface.

How long does the battery last?

Each charge of the integrated rechargeable battery can last up to 12 hours.

Is the Equinox 800 good for beginners?

Beginners can use it, although there might be a severe learning curve. It works well for enthusiasts who are prepared to spend money on a long-term detector.