Minelab Equinox 700 vs 900: Which Detector is Right for You?

Treasure seekers were much buzzed about Minelab dropping the Equinox 700 and 900. Built on Minelab's acclaimed Multi-IQ technology, both machines serve customers seeking high-end performance without resorting to the Manticore all the way. Which one, though, really ought to be on your pack? Let's dissect it to find the metal detector best for your style.

Overview of the Minelab Equinox 700

The Equinox 700 delivers tremendous performance contained in an easy-to-use compact. Designed with intermediate users in mind who want a taste of pro-level capabilities without going broke, it treats parks, fields, and beaches like a champ with six search modes—Park, Field, and Beach each in one and two variations—fast target response, and wireless audio compatibility. Ideally, if you seek several areas, you receive simultaneous multi-frequency detection, allowing you to hit several target types in one sweep.

Built robust and lightweight, the control box and shaft feature a collapsing carbon-fiber shaft for simpler transportation. Add in waterproofing down to five meters and a clean backlit screen with three-level brightness settings, and you have a detector that feels quality without the price tag of the 900. For cord-free comfort, it also includes Bluetooth and low-latency wireless headphone capability.

Overview of the Minelab Equinox 900

The Equinox 900 picks things up a level. It is based on the 700 but adds some more muscle. You receive increased target ID resolution (119 points vs. the 700's 99), stronger iron discrimination, and 10 search modes—two each for Park, Field, Beach, and Gold. In high-trash or mineralized locations where distinguishing trash from excellent findings counts, this means more accuracy when hunting.

Particularly in saltwater and black sand environments, where many machines struggle, its all-terrain flexibility shines. Along with a somewhat more responsive audio system and a backlit keypad—great for underwater or noisy environments—the 900 also adds vibration feedback. For experienced hunters who prefer to adjust every parameter, the interface is quick, easy, and flawless.

Two coils—an 11" DD coil for coverage and a 6" sniper coil for trashy or tight areas—also come straight out of the box. That extra coil by itself gives great value.

Equinox 700 vs 900 Comparison Table

Key Differences Between the Equinox 700 and 900

Main Variations From the Equinox 700 to 900

Though under the hood, there are some actual distinctions, even if at first glance, both detectors seem almost identical.

• Target ID Resolution: With 119 segments and a finer scale, the 900 offers a more thorough understanding of what is below. Especially with smaller jewelry or deep silver coins, the added range lets you dial in on particular targets.

• Search Modes: Two of the 900's ten modes are for gold prospecting; absent from the 700. This is quite a benefit if you intend to visit the goldfields.

• User Interface: Although their menus are identical, the 900 has a small edge in processing speed and sonic subtleties.

• Vibration Feature: Only found in the 900, this quiet signal alert is ideal for noisy environments or diving, where audio tones can be drowned out.

• Backlit Keypad: The 900 lights of a backlit keypad make night hunts or gloomy forest routes easier to navigate.

While everyone won't value these improvements, for those who pursue every last edge, they do.

Coil Options and Compatibility

Standard with both detectors is an 11" round DD Smart Coil, which provides a good mix of coverage and depth. The 900 has an extra 6" coil, perfect for confined spaces and iron-infested terrain when accuracy is paramount.

Both fit the current Equinox coils used by Minelab. You therefore have access to more aftermarket choices including the 15" coil for deeper targets and more ground coverage. You have the freedom to customize your arrangement whether you are sorting through large amounts of rubbish or scanning broad open spaces.

Waterproofing and Build Quality

Here, there were no shortcuts taken. Riverbanks, shallow lake bottoms, or beach surf zones would find both machines perfect since they are completely waterproof up to five meters (16 feet). Their lightweight, sturdy, and comfortable for all-day use carbon-fiber collapsible shaft design is the same.

Resisting dirt, water, and mud, they each have tightly sealed control pods. The flexible and comfortable armrest design helps to ease tiredness. Extreme conditions make the 900 somewhat more useful thanks to its added tactile feedback (vibration) and keyboard lights.

Price Comparison and Value for Money

Usually costing about $699, the Equinox 700 is followed by the 900, which runs about $1,099. That's a $400 difference, but with the 900 you do get substantial things. The second coil, gold modes, better resolution Target ID, and further user comforts help explain the pricing.

The 700 is more than plenty if you're on a tight budget or simply want a good performer for beaches and parks. But the 900 provides tools to develop into whether you're pushing into more challenging areas, hunting in mineral-rich zones, or wish to increase your skill set.

Performance in the Field: Real User Feedback

Detectorists who have used both remark that the Equinox 700 manages most ground conditions well, including dry sand, freshwater beaches, and usual park terrain. It's accurate in its ID, quick and snappy. For coin shooting or casual relic searching, the tone break and recovery speed are more than plenty.

In more intricate settings, the 900 shines out—saltwater beaches, heavily mineralized soils, and trashy relic sites. Users often note its more constant target IDs in depth and more snappier aural feedback. When trying to separate close targets, some additionally value the more complex audio tones and the small edge in recovery speed.

Which One Should You Buy?

Go for the 700 if you want a pro-level sensation without the complexity or cost tag and are moving from a novice detector. For its price, it gives significant performance, is dependable and flexible.

However, the Equinox 900 allows you space to develop if you hunt regularly, particularly in more difficult conditions or wish for gold prospecting potential. Not simply bells and whistles, the additional functions are quite helpful. And without any purchase, that extra 6" coil offers you instant choices.

This relates to which is better for you, not about which is better generally.

Buy the Minelab Equinox 700 and 900 at Detector Hero

Look no further than Detector Hero if you are ready to update your detecting equipment. Authorized Minelab dealers, we provide real Equinox 700 and 900 versions supported by complete manufacturer warranties.

To hit the ground running at Detector Hero, you will find bundle options including headphones, carrying bags, and pinpoints—bonus accessories. Before and after your purchase, our knowledgeable support staff is here to help you ensure you have the correct configuration for your detection objectives.

Be savvy when shopping. Hunt smarter. Visit Detector Hero now to acquire your Minelab Equinox detector and explore below.