Minelab Pro-Find 15 vs Pro-Find 35: Which Pinpointer is Right for You?

Regarding real metal detecting, your primary detector will get you close, but a good pinpoint closes things. The Minelab Pro-Find 15 and Pro-Find 35 step in here. After every signal, these portable gadgets save time and effort by helping you hone in on your goal. Which one, perhaps, fits your hunts best? Allow us to dissect it here.
Read About: Minelab Equinox 700 vs 900
Minelab Pro-Find 15 Overview
Designed with simplicity and economy in mind, the Pro-Find 15 is the simplest brother in the lineup. It provides the basic tools any casual or beginning detectorist needs to get going. Press and point; there is no sophisticated menu or multi-button arrangement.
It has audio tones for target recognition and a vivid yellow body that is easily seen when dropped. Although it is not designed for complete submersion, its splashproof structure manages light rain and damp grass. Driven by a normal 9V battery, the field time should last for hours.
The Pro-Find 15 keeps things simple and wallet-friendly if you're just starting to detect or want a consistent backup pinpointer.
Minelab Pro-Find 35 Overview
Now, the Pro-Find 35 delivers if you're looking for a pinpoint loaded with additional muscle. Designed with seasoned treasure seekers in mind, it incorporates elements that change the field.
It lets you adapt depending on target size or soil condition by providing five sensitivity levels. Ferrous Tone ID is revolutionary since it lets out various tones for iron and non-ferrous metals, thereby guiding your decision on whether to dig. Indeed, it vibrates as well for silent pointing when you wish to remain understated.
Beach searches, shallow streams, and muddy fields would find the Pro-Find 35 perfect since it is waterproof up to 10 feet. It also includes a built-in lost alarm; if you leave it behind, it will warn you. This model is for detectorists seeking more flexibility and control from their equipment.
Minelab Pro-Find 15 vs Pro-Find 35 – Quick Comparison Table
Feature |
Minelab Pro-Find 15 |
Minelab Pro-Find 35 |
Sensitivity |
Fixed |
Adjustable |
Waterproofing |
Splash-resistant |
Fully waterproof up to 10 feet |
Alerts |
Audio only |
Audio + Vibration |
Discrimination |
None |
Ferrous Tone ID |
Lost Alarm |
No |
Yes |
Best For |
Beginners, casual use |
Advanced users, wet conditions |
Ideal Environment |
Dry land, parks, mild conditions |
Beaches, rivers, and harsh terrain |
Power Source |
9V battery |
9V battery |
Size & Weight |
Lightweight, compact |
Slightly larger, still portable |
Price |
More affordable |
Higher, premium features |
Detection Capabilities
Regarding performance, the Pro-Find 35 presents a more elegant experience. Its changeable sensitivity lowers misleading signals and helps to pick up smaller objects. Although dependable, the Pro-Find 15 has a set sensitivity that can restrict detecting depth in some settings.
With Ferrous Tone ID, the 35 additionally sticks out and lets you spot iron waste before you dig. The 15 just cannot match it. If you search for artifacts or routinely dig in areas high in iron, the additional information from the 35 helps.
Waterproofing & Durability
The Pro-Find 15 is not meant to be submerged in water; it can manage splashes and rain. By contrast, the Pro-Find 35 is completely waterproof up to three meters. That fits shallow streams, beaches, and riverbanks more naturally.
With Minelab's typical robust plastic housings, build quality is strong on both; yet, in terms of ruggedness and weather readiness, the 35 dominates.
Features & Functionality
This is where the divide gets wider. Features included in the Pro-Find 35 are much sought after by experienced users. The vibration mode is looked at. Multiple sensitivity levels? Sure. Missing-alarm. These purposes provide more than simply bells and whistles; they save time, cut down on field frustration, and minimize trash-digging effort.
The Pro-Find 15 maintains simplicity in meantime. Just one tone, one button, one job. For beginners or backup use, that's not a drawback; nevertheless, the 35 has the edge if you're pursuing accuracy.
Battery Life & Maintenance
Running on a 9V battery, both pinpointers provide about 30 hours of use based on frequency of use. Replace batteries quickly and without tools. Regarding upkeep, especially with the 15 since it's not entirely waterproof, just keep the tip clean and dry after usage. For the 35, rinsing it following saltwater contact helps maintain it in the best condition.
Pricing & Value for Money
Among Minelab's pinpointers, the Pro-Find 15 is among the more reasonably priced ones. If you want good performance without going broke, it's ideal. Although the Pro-Find 35 costs more, you are paying for superior tone ID system, waterproofing, and extra functions.
The 15 is a reasonable purchase for a casual or novice. The 35 is worth the additional money, though, if you want a pinpointer that can develop with your abilities or tackle more challenging environments.
Pros & Cons
Pro-Find 15
Pros:
-
Budget-friendly
-
Simple to use
-
Loud audio alerts
-
Durable for light use
Cons:
-
Not waterproof
-
Fixed sensitivity
-
No vibration mode or ferrous discrimination
Pro-Find 35
Pros:
-
Waterproof to 10 feet
-
Adjustable sensitivity
-
Ferrous Tone ID for better target decision-making
-
A lost alarm helps prevent losing it.
-
Vibration option for quiet hunts
Cons:
-
Higher price point
-
Slightly more learning curve for new users
Which One Should You Choose?
The Pro-Find 15 won't let you down whether you're just starting or require a dependable backup for your pack. Though simple, it gets the work done, especially for dry terrain searches.
The Pro-Find 35 is the wiser purchase, though, if you hunt regularly in varied surroundings, you must dig smarter, or need added input like vibration and tone ID.
Customer Reviews & Feedback
The Pro-Find 15's plug-and-play simplicity earns many users' compliments. For novices looking for a hassle-free tool, it's a favorite. Conversely, others say they wish it had a bit more depth or waterproof ability.
Particularly in trash-heavy locations, Pro-Find 35 users frequently discuss the accuracy and usefulness of the discrimination tones. More often than you would believe, the lost alarm also saves the day. Beach and relic hunters enjoy it.
Conclusion
Both Pro-Find 15 and Pro-Find 35 provide what one would expect from a company like Minelab—quality, dependability, and purpose-built design. Should you be starting your metal detecting journey, the 15 provides all the necessary tools. The Pro-Find 35 is difficult to match, though, if you want accuracy, waterproofing, and additional field control.
FAQs
1. Can both models be used underwater?
Up to three meters, alone the Pro-Find 35 is totally waterproof. Though not submersible, the Pro-Find 15 is splashproof.
2. Do they work with any brand of metal detector?
Indeed, regardless of brand, both types can be used with any metal detector.
3. Is the Pro-Find 35 harder to use?
Not really true. It is user-friendly even if it has many settings. You'll pick it up fast.
4. Which one is better for beach detecting?
Finding 35 Pro-Find 35 It's waterproof and provides more control in saltwater and wet sand settings.
5. Is the extra cost of the Pro-Find 35 justified?
Definitely if you hunt frequently or on different types of terrain The enhanced tools improve your whole detecting experience and are useful.