The Nokta Simplex metal detector has earned a strong reputation in the metal detecting community for delivering premium performance at a budget-friendly price. Designed by Nokta Makro, a company known for innovation and rugged build quality, the Simplex series has become one of the most recommended detectors for beginners and casual hobbyists—while still offering enough power and features to satisfy experienced treasure hunters.
In this in-depth Nokta Simplex metal detector review, we’ll explore its features, performance, pros and cons, real-world applications, comparisons, and whether it’s the right choice for your detecting needs. If you’re considering a reliable, waterproof, and easy-to-use detector, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
What Is the Nokta Simplex Metal Detector?
The Nokta Simplex metal detector is a VLF (Very Low Frequency) detector operating at 12 kHz, designed to locate coins, relics, jewelry, and other metallic objects in a wide range of environments. What makes the Simplex stand out is that it offers features typically found on higher-priced detectors—such as full waterproofing, wireless audio compatibility, and advanced discrimination—at a fraction of the cost.
Since its release, the Simplex lineup (including the Simplex Lite, Simplex BT, and Simplex Ultra) has become one of the most popular detector series worldwide.
Key Features of the Nokta Simplex Metal Detector
1. Fully Waterproof Design
One of the most impressive features of the Nokta Simplex metal detector is its full waterproof rating. The detector is waterproof up to 10 feet (3 meters), making it suitable for:
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Beach detecting (wet sand and shallow water)
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River and creek hunting
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Rainy or muddy conditions
This level of waterproofing is rare at its price point and gives the Simplex a major advantage over many competitors.
2. Operating Frequency (12 kHz)
The 12 kHz operating frequency strikes an excellent balance between:
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Detecting small targets like jewelry
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Locating deeper, larger items such as coins and relics
This makes the Nokta Simplex metal detector extremely versatile for different types of treasure hunting.
3. Multiple Search Modes
The Simplex includes several built-in search modes to optimize performance in different environments:
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Field Mode – Ideal for relic hunting and plowed land
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Park Mode 1 & 2 – Designed for trashy areas like parks and playgrounds
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Beach Mode – Optimized for wet sand and saltwater conditions
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All Metal Mode – Maximum depth and sensitivity for advanced users
These modes allow beginners to get started quickly while giving experienced users more control.
4. Wireless Audio Compatibility
Higher-end models of the Nokta Simplex metal detector support Bluetooth wireless headphones, reducing cable clutter and improving comfort during long hunts.
Wireless audio also helps with fast target recovery and clearer signal interpretation.
5. Rechargeable Lithium Battery
Unlike detectors that rely on AA batteries, the Simplex features a built-in rechargeable lithium battery:
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Up to 12 hours of use on a full charge
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USB charging for convenience
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No ongoing battery costs
This makes the Nokta Simplex metal detector more eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.
6. Lightweight and Ergonomic Design
Weighing approximately 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg), the Simplex is comfortable for long detecting sessions. The adjustable shaft and well-balanced design reduce arm fatigue, making it ideal for:
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Beginners
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Younger users
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Extended hunts
Ease of Use: Perfect for Beginners
One of the biggest reasons the Nokta Simplex metal detector is so popular is its ease of use. The intuitive interface includes:
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Simple button layout
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Clear LCD display
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Easy-to-adjust sensitivity and discrimination
Beginners can unbox the detector, power it on, and start detecting within minutes—without feeling overwhelmed by complicated menus.
Target Identification and Discrimination
Accurate Target ID
The Nokta Simplex metal detector provides numeric Target ID (0–99), allowing users to quickly identify probable targets:
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Low numbers: iron and trash
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Mid numbers: gold, pull tabs, small jewelry
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High numbers: coins and silver
Advanced Discrimination
Users can notch out unwanted targets (such as iron) to reduce junk digging. This is especially helpful in trash-filled areas like parks and old homesteads.
Depth Performance and Sensitivity
For a detector in its price range, the Nokta Simplex metal detector delivers impressive depth:
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Coins are often detected at 8–10 inches
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Larger objects can be detected even deeper
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Sensitive enough for small jewelry and thin coins
While it may not compete with high-end multi-frequency detectors in mineralized soil, it performs exceptionally well in most conditions.
Performance in Different Environments
Park and Urban Areas
Park Mode excels at filtering trash while still hitting coins and jewelry. The fast recovery speed helps separate good targets from junk.
Beach Detecting
Beach Mode reduces salt interference, making the Simplex effective on wet sand and shallow saltwater beaches—an area where many budget detectors struggle.
Relic Hunting
Field Mode is excellent for relic hunters searching old farms, battlefields, and homesteads. The All Metal Mode offers maximum depth for experienced users.
Durability and Build Quality
Nokta Makro is known for rugged designs, and the Nokta Simplex metal detector is no exception:
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Solid carbon-fiber shaft
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Reinforced arm cuff
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Weather-resistant buttons
This detector is built to handle rough terrain and frequent use.
Pros and Cons of the Nokta Simplex Metal Detector
Pros
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Fully waterproof to 10 feet
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Excellent value for the price
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Easy to use for beginners
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Rechargeable battery
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Lightweight and ergonomic
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Multiple search modes
Cons
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Single-frequency only (not multi-frequency)
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Slight learning curve for advanced settings
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Stock coil may struggle in extremely mineralized soil
Nokta Simplex vs Competing Metal Detectors
Nokta Simplex vs Garrett ACE Series
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Simplex offers waterproofing; ACE does not
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Rechargeable battery vs AA batteries
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More modern interface on Simplex
Nokta Simplex vs Minelab Vanquish
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Vanquish offers multi-frequency but is not waterproof
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Simplex is better for water hunting
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Both are excellent beginner detectors
Who Should Buy the Nokta Simplex Metal Detector?
The Nokta Simplex metal detector is ideal for:
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Beginners entering the hobby
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Casual hobbyists looking for reliability
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Budget-conscious treasure hunters
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Beach and shallow-water hunters
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Families and younger users
It may not be the best choice for professional relic hunters in highly mineralized soil, but for most users, it offers unbeatable value.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Nokta Simplex
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Start with factory presets before customizing
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Use headphones to hear faint signals
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Practice target ID interpretation
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Ground balance properly for best depth
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Experiment with sensitivity settings
Final Verdict: Is the Nokta Simplex Metal Detector Worth It?
In this comprehensive Nokta Simplex metal detector review, it’s clear why this detector has become a favorite among hobbyists worldwide. It combines durability, ease of use, and advanced features into an affordable package that outperforms many competitors in its class.
If you’re looking for a reliable, waterproof, and user-friendly metal detector that won’t break the bank, the Nokta Simplex metal detector is one of the best choices on the market today.
Conclusion
The Nokta Simplex metal detector proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality metal detecting. Whether you’re searching parks, beaches, fields, or shallow water, this detector offers the performance, durability, and features needed to make every hunt enjoyable and successful.
If your website focuses on metal detecting gear, reviews, or beginner guides, this article is perfectly optimized to rank for “Nokta Simplex metal detector” while providing genuine value to readers and search engines alike.