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Last updated on February 18, 2021 by qualified builder Aaron Barnett
The best value stud finder has a large detection area for quick scans on walls. There are also stud finders that utilize radar scanning technology and will be part of a multi-scanner.
A multi scanner can detect also wires and pipes hidden inside a wall one of which has up to 7 different scanning functions displayed on an easy-to-read backlit screen.
Best stud finder (magnetic)
#1 Best value stud finder
Franklin 710 Pro sensor 1.6 inches, 13-sensors, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- Includes a CH Hanson magnetic stud finder.
- Wide 7” coverage.
- Simultaneous scanning with 13 sensors.
- None.
#2 Widest multi-sensor scanner
ProFinder 5000+ 1.6 inches, 13 sensors, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- Ties with the Franklin in terms of sensor number.
- Does not need to be moved around to operate.
- Can confuse other things for studs.
#3 Best small magnetic metal detector
Little Wizard II 3/4 inch, metal detector
- Highly portable.
- Good for finding screws, nails, and other metals.
- Can only detect metal.
#4 Best DeWalt metal center finder
DeWalt DW0150 1-1/2 inch wood, metal, wire stud finder
- Center finder that detects wood and metal up to 1.5”.
- This DeWalt stud finder features auto-calibration.
- Highly sensitive to AC wiring.
#5 A smaller 6-sensor Franklin scanner
Franklin ProSensor T6 1 1/2 inch, 6 sensors, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- This is the most affordable finder that can scan up to 1.5”.
- 6 sensors and displays stud edges and center simultaneously.
- Almost no heft and can feel cheap.
#6 A DIY auto-calibrating center-finder
Craftsman CMHT77623 1 1/2 inches, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- An auto-calibrating center finder.
- Covered by a full lifetime warranty.
- The battery sometimes loosens up quickly.
#7 A 2-sensor wood & metal detector
Stanley STHT77406 3/4 inch, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- This Stanley stud finder is a 2-sensor wood and metal stud detector.
- OnePass technology with AC detection capabilities.
- The screen can be difficult to read.
#8 Small Dewalt stud finder
DeWalt DW0100 3/4 inch, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- A predecessor of the DW0150 effective at thinner depths of ¾”.
- Misidentifies other elements for AC wiring.
#9 The Black + Decker stud finder
Black + Decker SF100 3/4 inch, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- Powered by 2 AA batteries.
- Edge finder up to ¾”.
- Inconsistent readings.
#10 A cheap shock-resistant detector
Craftsman CMHT77633 3/4 inch, wood, metal, wire stud finder
- This is the most affordable ¾” finder.
- Water and shock-resistant body.
- This Craftsman stud finder has a lifetime warranty.
- Accurate only 50% of the time.
- Sometimes continuously beeps for no reason.
Best stud finder (electronic and radar)
#1 Best radar multi-scanner stud finder
Bosch D-Tect150 6 inch max, 7 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder kit
- Scan deep up to 6” on various types of material.
- Advanced UWB radar technology.
- Exhaustive with 7 specialized scanning modes.
- Extremely pricey.
#2 Best value electronic stud finder
Zircon Multi scanner A200 3 inch max, 3 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Features auto-correction for more accurate readings.
- 4 flexible scanning modes.
- Exclusively sold on Amazon.
#3 Best smart-phone compatible stud finder
Walabot DIY Plus advance 4-inch max, 3 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder kit
- Compatible with smartphones.
- Deepest wood scanning at 4”.
- Comes with an 8pc accessory kit.
- No need to check the Walabot reviews, it can be tricky to pair and calibrate.
#4 Best Zircon 4-mode multi-scanner
Zircon MultiScanner x85 2 inch max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- This is the most expensive 4-mode multi scanner.
- Can detect minute traces of thermal energy.
- Does not work on tiles.
#5 Best Bosch electronic stud finder
Bosch GMS120 4 3/4 inches max, 3 sensors, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Has the deepest metal scanning technology.
- 3 laser sensors offer detection up to 4 3/4:”
- The ring light can be too bright and hurts the eyes.
#6 Best for 3-inch depth scanning
Zircon MultiScanner 740 3 inch max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- A slightly scaled-down version of the Zircon A200 with roughly the same features.
- Incorporates a built-in erasable wall marker.
- The design makes it bulky for some.
#7 Best electronic multi-scanner for 2-inch scanning
Zircon i520 Onestep 2 inch max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- 4-mode scanning detects wood and AC wires up to 2”
- Relatively shallow metal scanning.
#8 Best energy saving scanner
Meterk 2 in 1 4 inch max, 3 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Scan metal deep up to 4”.
- Doubles as a laser range-finder.
- Save power with its auto-shutdown function.
- Tiny font makes it hard to read the instruction manuals.
#9 Best 7 mode electronic stud scanner
Perlesmith 7 in 1 2 2/5 inches max, 7 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Similar to the Bosch D-Tect150 in that it has 7 scanning modes that can reach depths of up to 2.5”.
- Get more accurate results with its upgraded measurement modes.
- Has the shallowest wood scanning.
#10 Best Tacklife stud finder for moisture detection
Tacklife DMS05 4.75 inches max, 5 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- One of few stud finders that can detect moisture build-up within walls.
- It can sometimes lock up when switching scan modes.
#11 Best 6-mode electronic stud finder
Meterk 5 in 1 2.36 inches max, 6 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- High utility as it actually has 6 distinct scanning modes.
- Cleverly designed mute setting.
- The display readout is a bit small.
#12 Best Tacklife detector for metal
Tacklife DMS03 4 inches max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Good if you’re mainly scanning for metals
- Can detect up to 4” with 4 scanning modes.
- Rather inefficient at finding live wires.
#13 Most affordable electronic multi-scanner
Tavool TH250 4 in 1 2.36 inches max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Upgraded screen size and display quality.
- Warns if AC wire is actually attached to a stud.
- Awkward positioning of the power button.
#14 Best multi-scanner screen display
Vivreal 4 in 1 2 1/4 inches max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- This is the most affordable 4-mode 2 ¼” scanner.
- Nostalgic appearance is reminiscent of a Nokia 7110.
- Not the most consistent.
#15 Best new-release electronic multi-scanner
Merece 5 in 1 2.36 inches max, 5 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- New release by Merece with a classy ergonomic design.
- 5 scanning modes up to 2.36”.
- Only effectively scans metal up to 1.77”
#16 Best misc-sensor chip system
JaxWQ 5 in 1 2.36 inches max, 5 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- This is the most affordable 5-mode multi scanner.
- Utilizes a micro-sensor chip for fast and accurate readings.
- The way information is displayed can be confusing to read.
#17 Best DIY scanner for temperature detection
Neoteck 8 in1 2.4 inches max, 4 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Work with 4 scanning modes up to 2.4” max.
- Can detect moisture levels and even temperatures!
- Could have added more scanning modes.
#18 Best simple electronic detector
PrvnPro 1.5 inches max, 3 modes, multi-wall scanner/ stud finder
- Easy and simple scanning up to 1.5” with 3 modes.
- Can be hard to interpret readings due to a lack of text
Introduction
Stud finders can be used to electronically help you to find studs and other things behind the wall covering that you cannot see with your eyes in walls. These gadgets are rather handy and are important tools for builders and carpenters and DIY’ers.
Stud finder production began in 1980’s, considered a modern device back then, now thousands of newer, more advanced models now permeate the market.
Stud finders have 2 primary classifications, magnetic and electronic. They have the same function but use different processes. Easy to use with no professional training required, this comprehensive guide will show which ones to seek out.
To help you locate fixing points inside your walls to help you with jobs from hanging pictures to installing wall brackets like for installing the long arm tv mount on your wall.
Features to consider when buying a stud finder
- Type. Magnetic types are simpler and more analog, they do not require power sources and have little-to-no electrical components.
Electric/Digital ones offer deeper scanning capabilities but are usually more complex and expensive. - Hands-free. Larger models are usually held constantly against the wall. Lighter models can be affixed to a position while you mark.
- Interface. Your model should have an adequate display, lights, and alarms that make work faster and easier.
- Scanning prowess. This feature determines the depth and accuracy of a model’s scans. Some stud finders can even locate studs in a 3-dimensional plane.
Reasons to buy a stud finder
- Time efficient. A stud finder’s main purpose is to locate studs. If you want to determine the perfect area on your wall to hang a painting or mount your tv when you know how , then having a stud finder will help you more easily find studs, saving you valuable time and money in the long run.
- Economic. With a purpose-specific function, stud finders can last you a long time, given the proper care of course. Unless it’s part of your daily work, then you’d normally use these tools in lieu of planned renovations and remodels. They’re strategic, as they are available should the need arise, otherwise, they sit perfectly fine when not in use.
Before you buy a stud finder
Identify the need.
For what purpose/s would you need a stud finder? Before you make a purchase, you have to be clear about how often you’ll be using the tool and for what. It’s a welcomed addition if it’ll be part of your work kit, otherwise, set it as a strategic investment.
Decide on a type.
Would you like an electronic stud finder or a magnetic one? Magnetic stud finders are simpler and more affordable, ideal for those with budget constraints, and appreciate a tool with a classic feel. Electronic ones are more functional and ergonomic and are better suited for those who work with interiors.
Research the features.
It’s important to be aware and knowledgeable about the features of your chosen finder. You’d want a model that gives you as accurate a reading as possible. In order to achieve that, your finder should have the appropriate elements that effectively alerts and leads you to a stud’s precise location.
Magnetic vs Electronic vs Radars
Magnetic stud finders are the OG. As mentioned before, they are simple to use and do not have any electrical components. Utilizing magnets to locate nails/screws and detects the studs, this type requires a little guesswork but is highly convenient.
Electronic stud finders are the complete opposite of magnetic ones. These are more accurate as they utilize sensors to measure the density of walls in order to find the location of studs. They don’t, however, work on all wall types as they can send erroneous readings from paneling and drywall.
Radar stud finders are advanced tools that utilize radio energy pulses to determine a stud’s location. While it can be more accurate than electronic ones, it also detects wires, piping, and basically anything hidden behind your wall making it a super cool tool to have.
Edge finders and center finders
- Edge finder. Edge finders work by determining the edge of a stud by measuring the change in density of a wall while running it across. You usually have to run it in both directions to get accurate results.
- Center finder. Center finders are more accurate and complex and use sensors to scan 2 separate densities of a wall simultaneously to find a stud’s center. They chime once a stud has been located.
Ideal scan depths
- Wooden Studs. Studs are basic support-frame elements to timber-framed houses. As such, they are directly behind your wall linings and it doesn’t take much for a stud finder to detect one. Depending on the wall type and structural layout, an ideal scanning depth would be around ¾”.
- Metals. Metal studs have roughly the same optimal scanning depth as wooden ones. The ideal scanning depth would be .5 – 1.5”.
- Live Wires. Wires are often placed safely at the back of the internal structure. The ideal scan depth is at 2”. Note that not all detectors will pick up wires and pipes.
Must-have features for electronic and radar stud finders
- Display. Stud finders with screens give more accurate information when compared to just LED ones. Backlit LCD displays are more vivid, allowing you to get clearer, more precise readings.
- Multiple Scan Modes. Versatility is always good. Having multiple scanning modes gives you more options; from light scans to get initial readings, to deeper ones that can detect and indicate the possible location of pipes and other hidden elements.
- Warning Indicators. Appropriate prompts will alert you about live-wires and plumbing. This is more of a safety feature and also mitigates the risk of potentially damaging important features housed behind the wall.
Choosing the top stud finder
#1 Best radar multi-scanner stud finder
If you want the best stud finder and also more advanced, then consider the Bosch D-Tect150 as the pinnacle of detection. With its precision-laser technology and 7 specialized scanning modes, you get superior performance even up to 6” deep into dense spaces, including concrete and floors, regardless of whether they’re dry or not.
Readings are clear and easily viewed thanks to its bright and colored display. You need to not worry about making constant adjustments because this model is self-calibrating – it automatically makes the necessary adjustments to stay on track at the start of detection.
It’s versatile, as it runs on 4 AA batteries, and practically runs itself, what more do you need?
#1 Best value electronic stud finder
Best in value goes to the Zircon MulitScanner A200 for its commendable mix of capability and price. This Zircon stud sensor scans up to depths of 3”, including metal, and detects both studs and other hidden wall elements with the help of 4 flexible scanning modes.
Get clear and accurate readings with the aid of its patented Spotlite and auto-correcting technology of this Zircon stud finder. View clear results on its ultra-bright LCD and stay safer with its wire-detection feature.
#1 Most affordable electronic stud finder
The Tavool TH250 is the most budget-friendly electronic stud finder you can get. While its price is friendly, it doesn’t lack any of the important features and still delivers an acceptable performance. You get 4 modes, including deep detection, Live AC wire detection up to 2.36”, and even a limited amount of self-calibration!
While it might not give a stellar performance, this Tavool stud finder will certainly serve its purpose well-enough while maintaining a professional look.
#1 Best value magnetic stud finder
When it comes to scanning with sensors only, nothing beats the Franklin 710 Pro sensor. The Franklin is all about coverage-area and its multi-sense technology, along with 13 sensors, allows it to cover multiple locations simultaneously.
Scan areas up to 7” wide while getting the added benefit of having an included CH Hanson magnetic stud finder. You may not get a screen, but it does make up for this with multiple bright LEDs and impeccable portability.
How to use a magnetic stud finder?
Magnetic stud finders make use of a magnet in order to find hidden metallic elements that are behind a wall. There are those that make use of either a stationary magnet or a movable one. The way they are used is basically the same in that you run them across a surface and watch for a magnetic response to indicate the possible location of studs.
How does a magnetic stud finder work?
Stationary magnets. Mostly common magnets that react via magnetic force as they come across metals near the surface of a wall. These not effective on walls made of plaster as studs are placed further back
Moving magnets. Magnetic stud finders that use neodymium, a rare earth metal, that oscillates and makes a buzzing sound when detecting dense material. Neodymium has the strongest magnetic pull and can detect even deep fitted studs.
How to use an electronic or radar stud finder?
Electronic stud finder. Begin by determining where to place or mount the device. Once set, ensure that it has more than sufficient power as that can potentially distort readings. Switch it on and wait for it to calibrate, after which slowly move it in a sweeping motion from left to right or up and down, depending on where you wish to drill. Once it alerts you to the location of a stud, re-check then mark the spot.
Radar scanner. These kinds of stud finders work in virtually the same way as standard electronic ones, albeit with a little more efficiency even with deeply fitted studs and across a greater range of materials.
Tips for using a stud finder
Dos
- Know the wall type; magnetic stud finders tend to be more effective on plaster, while electronic ones are better with drywall.
- Always check the power level of models that use batteries. Not having enough charge can often lead to erroneous readings.
- Properly mark spots with removable material such as lead pencils or a piece of tape. Always double-check to avoid false-positives before marking.
- Make sure to have a decent spot to store in your stud finder as they come small and handy. If you haven’t got one, here’s a list of tool backpack that electricians must-have.
Don’ts
- Don’t work on a surface with objects still hanging. Remove any obstruction relative to the area you aim to work on, regardless of how proximal they are to your chosen starting point.
- Don’t mark with things like tacks or any other object that requires you to pierce the wall if you don’t need to.
Comparing magnetic stud finders
| Franklin 710 Prosensor
| ProFinder 5000+
| Little Wizard II
| DeWalt DW0150
| Franklin ProSensor T6
| Craftsman CMHT77623
| Stanley STHT77406
| DeWalt DW0100
| Black + Decker SF100
| Craftsman CMHT77633
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict: | Top multi-sensor | |||||||||
| Number of modes/sensors: | 13 sensors | 13 sensors | 1 mode | 1 sensor | 6 sensors | 1 sensor | 2 modes | 1 sensor | 1 sensor | 1 sensor |
| Scan depth: | 1.6 inches | 1.6 inches | 3/4 inch | 1 1/2 inches | 1 1/2inches | 1 1/2 inches | 2 inches | 3/4 inch | 3/4 inch | 3/4 inch |
| Materials detected: | Wood and metal studs | Wood and metal studs | Metal | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires |
| Display: | Location, detection strength, width | Location, detection strength, width | Location | Center location | Location, center, and edges | Center location | Location, center, and edges | Location, center, and edges | Center location | Center location |
Comparing electronic and radar stud finders
| Bosch D-Tect150
| Zircon MulitScanner A200
| Walabot DIY Plus advance
| Zircon MultiScanner x85
| Bosch GMS120
| Zircon MultiScanner 740
| Zircon i520 Onestep
| Meterk 2 in 1
| Perlesmith 7 in 1
| Tacklife DMS05
| Meterk 5 in 1
| Tacklife DMS03
| Tavool TH250
| Vivreal 4 in 1
| Merece 5 in 1
| JaxWQ 5 in 1
| Neoteck 8 in 1
| PrvnPro
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict: | Top radar detector | Best value electronic | Most affordable | |||||||||||||||
| Number of modes/ sensors: | 7 modes | 3 modes | 3 modes | 4 modes | 3 sensors | 4 modes | 4 modes | 3 modes | 7 modes | 5 modes | 6 modes | 4 modes | 4 modes | 4 modes | 5 modes | 5 modes | 4 modes | 3 modes |
| Scan depth (wood): | 6 inches | 1.5 inches | 4 inches | 2 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 3/4 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.2 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Scan depth (live wire: | 3 1/8 inches | 2 inches | 4 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 1.5 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2.36 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 2 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Scan depth (metal): | 6 inches | 3 inches | 4 inches | 2 inches | 4 3/4 inches | 3 inches | 1.5 inches | 4 inches | 2 2/5 inches | 4.75 inches | 2.36 inches | 4 inches | 1.77 inches | 2 1/4 inches | 2.36 inches | 2.36 inches | 2.4 inches | 1.5 inches |
| Display: | Depth, location, mode, width, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Location, image scan, mode | Location, mode, detection strength | Location, mode, detection strength | Location, detection strength, width | Location, detection strength, width | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Location, mode, direction strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Location, mode, direction strength | Mode, location, detection strength | Mode, location, detection strength |
| Materials detected: | Plastic, pipes, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wire studs | Studs, pipes, wire | Pipes, live wires, wood, metal studs | Wood studs, metal, live wire | Pipes, live wires, wood, metal studs | Pipes, live wires, wood, metal studs | Wood, metal, wire studs | Stud, joist, wires, pipes, moisture, and air temp | Wood, metal, wire, moisture | Wood metal. moisture, wire | Wood, beam, joist, ferrous metals, AC wires | Studs, wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires | Studs, wood, metal, wires | Studs, wood, metal, wires | Wood, metal, wires, moisture | Wood, metal, wire |
Conclusion
If you need a stud finder, then the best option would be the Zircon MulitScanner A200. It’s decently priced and you get all the neat features that you would need in order to work accurately and efficiently.
An alternative to the Zircon is the Franklin 710 Prosensor. It may not have a display, but the multiple sensors and included magnetic stud finder allows you to cover more ground and work at a faster pace.
The Tavool TH250 is your go-to if you’re working on a tight budget. It’s ideal for occasional and casual use while maintaining all the necessary components.
If you want to take stud detection to the limit, then look no further than the Bosch D-Tect150. This Bosch stud finder is a powerhouse of a tool that is advanced and offers superior scanning through almost any material. The only drawback would be its ludicrous price tag.
Stud finders are very convenient and are constantly being developed, and so is your tool repertoire and knowledge. If you’re interested in similar tools, check out our guides for the buying laser tape measure and best laser level too and you will have all the electronics you need to be at the top of your building game.
Bosch D-Tect150 review
Pros:
- Can scan as deep as 6 inches on different materials.
- Equipped with advanced UWB radar technology.
- Do more with 7 special scanning modes.
Cons:
- Costly if you only need to do a simple job.
#1 Best radar multi-scanner stud finder
Franklin 710 Pro sensor review
Pros:
- It comes with a CH Hanson magnetic stud finder.
- Scans as wide as 7 inches.
- Simultaneous scanning with 13 sensors.
Cons:
- Not as many functions as a multi-scanner.
#1 Best magnetic stud finder
More information:
- How to story of looking for studs began, retrieved from, https://www.zircon.com/2015/04/12/the-original-studsensor-story/
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