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The best apps for finding precious metals without spending a cent
Now that you know how this technology works, it's time to learn about the tools that can really help you take your first steps on this adventure.
Below, we present three applications totally free that you can install on your cell phone today. Each one has its own style, but they all share one goal: to help you find precious metals In a simple, accessible, and hassle-free way. We tested each one with you in mind. Maybe you're not very tech-savvy but want to try something new. Shall we?
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Smart Metal Detector App: simple, free, and very intuitive
One of the most popular apps for those just starting out in this world is called Smart App Metal DetectorIts name leaves little room for doubt, and neither does its interface. As soon as you open it, you're ready to start scanning the ground.


The great thing about this app is that it doesn't overwhelm you with complicated features. It has a clean design, displays a graph that moves when it detects changes in the magnetic field, and makes a sound when it finds something metallic. You don't need complex calibrations or any physics knowledge—just move your phone and observe.
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It also has an option to adjust the sensitivity. This is useful because not all cell phones have equally powerful sensors, and also because we don't always want the same thing. Sometimes we want to know if there's something metallic buried there, other times we just want to test how it works.
Ideal for those who want to get started without complications, this app is free and requires no registration. Just download and use.
Metal Detector – Smart Tools: An app with more features and precision
If you want to go a step further, then Metal Detector – Smart Tools It's a perfect choice. This app is part of a suite of smart tools, and it's clear it's been thought through with more detail.
Here, you have more data on the screen. In addition to the magnetic field graph, there are numerical indicators, the ability to save locations, automatic calibration, and customizable alarms. This makes the experience more like that of a professional detector.
An interesting feature is that you can also log your finds. Every time you spot something, you can save the location and note what you think it is. This allows you to keep track and see if certain places are "richer" than others.
It works very well on modern phones and has very good reviews in app stores. While it has a premium version, the free version is more than enough for those looking to get started.
Smart Metal Detector: modern design and very easy to use
This app combines good design, simplicity and efficiency. Smart Metal Detector It is designed for the general public, which is why its interface is user-friendly and its operation is almost automatic.
What stands out about this app is that it has a tutorial for those who have never used anything like it. It explains step by step what it does, how to calibrate it, how to move the phone, and what to expect in each situation. This is very helpful for older people or those who are less familiar with technology.
It also has visual and audible alerts, and a small "explorer mode" that encourages you to explore different locations and experiment. While it's not a substitute for a professional detector, it can detect various types of metals if they're close to the surface.
If you like the idea of walking and scanning the environment as if you were part of an adventure movie, this app is for you.
How do metal detection apps work?
At first, all of this may sound a little complicated. You might be thinking, "How is my phone going to detect metals if it doesn't even have an antenna for that?" But the reality is that you don't need any fancy accessories or technical knowledge. These apps work thanks to a small component that's already built into most modern phones: the magnetic sensor.
This sensor, which was originally designed to operate digital compasses, has the ability to measure magnetic fields from the environment. And here comes the interesting part: many metals, especially those with ferromagnetic properties, such as iron or steel modify the magnetic field when they're near this sensor. It's as if they're leaving an invisible trace in the air that the phone can detect.
Metal detection apps take care of interpret those invisible changesWhen you approach a metal object, the sensor detects it, and the app transforms it into a signal you can understand: it could be a vibration, a high-pitched sound, a visual alert, or even a moving graphic on the screen. Some phone models do this more accurately than others, but in general, they all follow the same basic principle.
Now, it is important to be realistic: It is not the same as using a professional metal detector.. Devices dedicated to this function have more power, greater range, and filters to differentiate between types of materials. But that doesn't mean the app isn't useful. In fact, for someone who wants to Try it out of curiosity, walk around for a while, or start a new hobby without spending money, these tools are more than enough.
Plus, there's something more valuable than precision: excitement. Feeling that first beep or vibration from your cell phone as it passes near a buried object can be as fun an experience as finding something valuable. And if after a while you find yourself enjoying this activity, you can always consider taking the next step and trying more advanced equipment.
In short: your cell phone, with the help of a simple free app, can become a small, portable metal detector. It's not magic or science fiction. It's technology at the service of your curiosity.