Simplex Ultra 2026: Brutally Honest Review

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Last summer, I spotted a guy working a grid pattern at my local park. His waterproof metal detector looked serious. I walked over expecting to see some fancy thousand-dollar setup. Nope. It was a Nokta Simplex Ultra – the same machine beginners buy for their first treasure hunting trip.

Here’s the kicker. He’d been metal detecting for twelve years. He owned three other detectors, including an $800 multi-frequency detector. So why use a $299 machine?

“Because it just works,” he said. He held up a silver quarter from eight inches down. “And I’m not scared to dunk this one in the lake.”

That conversation changed everything for me. It answered the big question: is Nokta Simplex Ultra worth it? This best budget waterproof metal detector does something smart. It skips the usual compromises. Instead, you get flagship features at a beginner price.

What do you get? Full waterproof protection down to 16 feet for real underwater metal detecting. Carbon fiber construction that won’t break. Adjustable recovery speed that $500+ machines brag about [1]. At $299-$349, this best all-around metal detector for beginners hits way above its price point.

Why the Nokta Simplex Ultra Solves Problems Other Metal Detectors Create

Here’s what most reviews won’t tell you. The metal detecting industry has been stuck for decades. Entry-level machines force you to accept junk. Plastic shafts that break. Splash-resistant coatings that fail. Fixed settings you’ll hate in six months. Professional detectors fix all this stuff, but they cost $700 or more.

The gap in the middle? That’s where this affordable waterproof detector for beaches lives.

The Ultra fixes three problems that have annoyed beginners forever:

Beginner-Friendly Controls Without Dumbing Down the Features

Problem One: The Learning Curve Wall. Most advanced detectors have menus like programming a VCR in 1987. Remember those? The Simplex Ultra keeps it simple. Single-button access to what you need. You can turn it on and start hunting in thirty seconds.

But here’s the smart part. Advanced settings are still there when you’re ready. Expert reviewer Joan Allen gave it a perfect 10/10 for user experience. She said Nokta created “one of the most intuitive and easy-to-learn detectors ever made” [2].

True Waterproof Protection for Underwater Metal Detecting

Problem Two: Water Kills Your Investment. Before machines like the Ultra came out, getting real waterproofing under $400 meant giving up important features. The Simplex Ultra’s IP68 rating means full submersion to 5 meters. That’s 16 feet down. Not rain-proof. Not splash-resistant. Actually waterproof.

The whole system goes underwater. Control box, shaft, coil – everything. It even vibrates when you’re underwater and can’t hear through your detector headphones.

Features You Won’t Outgrow After Six Months

Problem Three: You Outgrow It Too Fast. That’s the hidden cost of cheap detectors. You’ll need to replace them in a year. The Ultra includes features from machines that cost twice as much. Adjustable recovery speed with 5 levels. Manual ground balancing. Firmware updates through USB. Bluetooth connectivity.

What does that mean? This detector grows with you instead of ending up in your garage.

Single-Frequency vs Multi-Frequency Detector: What You Need to Know

Let me clear up the biggest confusion about this machine. The Simplex Ultra runs at a single 15kHz frequency. It’s not simultaneous multi-frequency technology. I see people getting confused about this in forums all the time when they compare it to true multi-frequency detectors.

Here’s the deal. True simultaneous multi-frequency (SMF) sends out multiple frequencies at once. Think of machines like Nokta’s Legend or Minelab’s detectors. It’s amazing technology, especially for saltwater beaches. The Ultra doesn’t work that way. It uses 15kHz, which is a smart middle ground.

Why 15kHz Makes This a Great Coin Shooting Metal Detector

Let me break down frequency in simple terms. Low frequencies (3-7kHz) go deeper and love silver coins. But they’ll miss small gold jewelry completely. High frequencies (20-40+kHz) catch tiny gold pieces easily. The downside? They lose depth on bigger targets. At 15kHz, this coin shooting metal detector handles coins, jewelry, and relics really well across the board [3].

Here’s what that means for your hunting. The Ultra jumped from the old Simplex+ 12kHz frequency because users kept missing stuff. Thin women’s rings and small jewelry would disappear with the old frequency. Higher frequencies catch them. Now you get better sensitivity on small gold. Plus you keep solid depth on coins and relics.

Best Uses for Freshwater Metal Detecting Equipment

Is it as good as true multi-frequency in wet salt sand with lots of minerals? Nope. But here’s where it shines. For freshwater metal detecting equipment applications, parks, fields, and dry sand beaches, that 15kHz sweet spot works great. And it costs way less.

How Deep Does Nokta Simplex Ultra Detect? Real Depth Test Results

Let me hit you with actual numbers. Marketing hype is useless without real testing. This answers the question everyone asks: how deep does Nokta Simplex Ultra detect?

Professional reviewers put the Simplex Ultra through controlled air-gap tests. That means they suspend the detector over targets in air. It shows maximum possible depth. In head-to-head testing against the Garrett AT Pro (which costs more than double), the original Simplex matched or beat it across multiple target types [4]. The Ultra’s 15kHz upgrade makes those numbers even better.

Field Testing and Nokta Simplex Ultra Depth Test Results

What about real field results from Nokta Simplex Ultra depth test results? A UK reviewer pulled a small bronze Roman coin from 7 inches down. He described it as “a soft, repeatable peep.” Forum users report coins at 6-9 inches consistently. Some find pennies at 9 inches deep [5]. The basic rule holds up: coil diameter equals about maximum depth. The included 11-inch coil delivers right around that 11-inch ceiling when conditions are good.

Target Separation for Relic Hunting in Trashy Ground

But here’s where the Ultra really kills it. Trashy environments perfect for relic hunting. Adjustable recovery speed (only the Ultra model has this in the Simplex line) lets you pick out small coins within an inch of iron trash. One tester found a silver sixpence “nestled right beside an iron nail” that their old detector completely missed.

Recovery speed works like this. It’s how fast the detector resets after finding a target. Higher recovery speed means you can separate good stuff from trash in iron-heavy sites. The trade-off? You lose some depth. Lower recovery speed gets maximum depth. But it struggles in trashy areas. Having five adjustable levels means you can dial in the Nokta Simplex Ultra discrimination settings for exactly what you’re hunting.

Beach Metal Detector Performance: Saltwater vs Freshwater

I’ve dunked this detector. Multiple times. In lakes, rivers, even waist-deep at the beach. That IP68 rating isn’t just marketing talk. The whole system handles going 16 feet underwater for real underwater metal detecting.

Vibration Feedback for When Detector Headphones Won’t Work

The vibration feedback becomes your best friend underwater. Your detector headphones can’t work when you’re submerged. So each target makes the machine vibrate. You can hunt in zero-visibility water. After saltwater use, just rinse it with fresh water. That prevents mineral buildup. Simple maintenance keeps it running for years.

Nokta Simplex Ultra Saltwater Beach Performance: The Honest Truth

Now, about Nokta Simplex Ultra saltwater beach performance. This gets a bit complicated. The Beach Mode does automatic ground balancing for sandy areas. Many users report great results. One reviewer said, “with the Ultra, I switched to Beach Mode, did a quick manual ground balance, and it ran beautifully smooth with minimal chatter.”

But here’s the important part. Single-frequency detectors struggle in heavily mineralized wet salt sand. It’s physics, not a design problem. For serious saltwater hunting, especially black sand beaches in places like Southern California, multi-frequency detectors work better [6]. Think Minelab Vanquish or Nokta’s own Legend. The Ultra handles casual beach hunting just fine. But if saltwater is your main thing, consider those alternatives.

Key Features That Make This the Best All-Around Metal Detector for Beginners

The Simplex Ultra packs in features that separate it from basic machines. Here’s what actually helps you find stuff:

Target Identification System and Discrimination Settings

Target Identification System: The 0-99 scale shows conductivity before you dig. Low numbers mean iron (skip it). Mid-range suggests pull tabs and foil. High numbers mean coins, jewelry, or relics. The Ultra adds adjustable notch discrimination and save-settings memory.

Lightweight Carbon Fiber Construction for All-Day Treasure Hunting

Carbon Fiber Construction: At 2.6 pounds, your arm won’t get tired during long hunts. The shaft collapses to 25 inches for travel. Carbon fiber construction at this price point is unusual. It’s durable and lightweight.

Nokta Simplex Ultra Battery Life Review: 12-15 Hours Per Charge

Nokta Simplex Ultra Battery Life Review: The 2300mAh battery gives you 12-15 hours per charge. Your actual runtime depends on speaker volume and LED flashlight use. USB charging takes about 3 hours. You can use external battery packs to hunt all day if you want.

Wireless Detector Headphones with Bluetooth Connectivity

Detector Headphones: The aptX Low Latency wireless connection works with any compatible headphones. The WHP package includes Nokta’s branded wireless headphones. But you can use your own. There’s also a 3.5mm jack for wired headphones on land.

Metal Detector Comparison: Nokta Simplex Ultra vs Garrett Ace 300 and Competitors

When you compare the Nokta Simplex Ultra vs Garrett Ace 300 ($349), the differences are clear. The Ultra offers full waterproofing. The Ace 300 is splash-resistant. The Ultra weighs less. It has wireless audio. It has adjustable recovery speed. The Ace 300 has loyal fans. But looking at the specs and field tests, the Ultra gives you more for less money. Any metal detector comparison chart will show the Ultra beating its price point.

Nokta Simplex Ultra vs Minelab Vanquish: Single vs Multi-Frequency

Against the Minelab Vanquish 540 ($399), you’re looking at single-frequency versus multi-frequency technology. The Vanquish wins in mineralized conditions and saltwater. The Ultra wins on ergonomics, battery life, and build quality. Neither is clearly better. It depends on where you hunt.

How the Ultra Improves on the Original Simplex+

Compared to its older brother, the Simplex+ ($269), the Ultra adds the 15kHz frequency. You get adjustable recovery speed. Advanced discrimination notching. Better processing. The Simplex+ was already good. The Ultra makes it better [7].

Honest Metal Detecting Tips: When to Consider Other Options

I’m big on honest limitations. Let me tell you where the Ultra isn’t your best bet. These metal detecting tips will save you from buyer’s remorse.

Gold Prospecting Detector Requirements: Not Ideal for Small Nuggets

Gold Prospecting Detector Limitations: The 15kHz frequency catches gold jewelry well. Those thin women’s rings that the old 12kHz missed? Now you’ll find them. But here’s the thing. For serious small gold nugget hunting in mineralized ground, you need different gear. Specialized high-frequency VLF or Pulse Induction machines work better.

When Multi-Frequency Detectors Beat Single-Frequency for Beaches

Saltwater Beach Specialization: Beach Mode handles moderately mineralized sand fine. Many users have success. But experienced saltwater hunters get better results with multi-frequency detectors. The Vanquish 540 or Nokta Legend work more consistently in wet salt sand. The Ultra handles casual beach hunting. But if saltwater is 90% of your hunting, look at alternatives.

Maximum Depth in Heavily Mineralized Soil

Maximum Depth in Extreme Conditions: In heavily mineralized soil, ground minerals create interference. Multi-frequency technology can “see through” that mineralization better. The Ultra has excellent ground balancing. But physics is physics.

Common Questions: Setup, Coils, and Where to Buy

How deep does the Simplex Ultra actually detect?

Coin-sized targets show up at 6-9 inches in normal soil. Maximum detection hits around 10-12 inches in All Metal mode when conditions are perfect. The 11-inch coil gives you a practical depth ceiling of about 11 inches for coin-sized stuff.

Nokta Simplex Ultra Unboxing and Setup: What’s in the Box?

Standard package has the detector with 11-inch coil, coil cover, USB charging cable, and Nokta cap. WHP versions add Bluetooth headphones with a carrying case. Setup takes maybe five minutes. Attach the coil, charge the battery (about 3 hours), and you’re hunting.

Battery Life: Will it last years like premium detectors?

The battery can handle 300-500 full charges typically. Users report 12-19 hours per charge even after years of use. Plus you can use external USB battery packs to hunt indefinitely. That beats proprietary battery packs by a mile.

Metal Detector Coil Size Comparison: Which Coil Should You Buy?

Optional coils include a 9.5″x6″ model for trashy areas. You get tighter target separation. There’s also a 13.5″x12.5″ for maximum depth on clean ground. Important note: coils can’t swap with older Simplex+ models. The frequency calibration is different [8].

Where to Buy Nokta Simplex Ultra and Current Deals

Authorized dealers include Kellyco Detectors, High Plains Prospectors, Detector Warehouse, and Metal Detecting Shop. Current promotions through December 2025 include free accessories. You get a digger, finds pouch, and carrying bag – about $75 extra value at the $299 price [9].

Final Verdict: Is the Nokta Simplex Ultra Worth It in 2026?

The Nokta Simplex Ultra earns its reputation through simple math. Flagship features at beginner pricing. Expert reviewer Joan Allen gave it 9/10 overall. She said this detector “punches well above its weight class” [10]. Users rate it highly across the board. They praise the price, the features, and the real waterproofing.

Who Should Buy This Best Budget Waterproof Metal Detector

Buy this detector if:

• You want the best metal detector for beginners 2025 with room to grow
• Water hunting matters to you (freshwater metal detecting equipment, beaches, swimming areas)
• You need a backup or travel detector for treasure hunting
• Coin shooting, casual relic hunting, or jewelry hunting are your thing
• You like quality construction and modern features in an affordable waterproof detector for beaches

When to Consider Alternative Metal Detectors

Consider alternatives if:

• Saltwater beach hunting is your main activity (check out Nokta Legend or Minelab Vanquish for better multi-frequency detector performance)
• Small gold nugget prospecting in mineralized ground is your focus (you need a specialized gold prospecting detector)
• You want absolute maximum depth in extreme mineralization (multi-frequency required)

The guy in the park had it figured out. Sometimes the best detector isn’t the priciest one. It’s the one that works consistently without making you paranoid. Getting it wet? No problem. Dropping it? It’ll survive. Hitting a rock? No worries.

At ~$300-$350 with current promotional accessories included, the Simplex Ultra delivers serious value. For newcomers, it kills the usual beginner-detector compromises. For experienced hunters, it’s a solid backup that won’t empty your wallet. Either way, you won’t outgrow this machine in six months. That’s worth more than the price gap between “beginner” and “intermediate” machines.

Now get out there and see what you find. 🔍

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References

1. Nokta Detectors Official Product Page – https://www.noktadetectors.com/metal-detector/simplex-ultra/
2. Joan Allen UK Field Test Review – https://www.joanallen.co.uk/nokta-simplex-ultra-review
3. Simplex New Generation Brochure – https://www.noktadetectors.com/wp-content/file-download/simplex-new-generation/simplex-new-generation-brochure-en.pdf
4. Kellyco Detectors Air Gap Testing – https://kellycodetectors.com/blog/nokta-makro-simplex-exceeds-expectations/
5. Find’s Treasure Forums User Experiences – https://www.findmall.com/threads/first-hunt-with-the-simplex-ultra.378709/
6. Serious Detecting Vanquish vs Simplex Comparison
7. Nokta Simplex New Generation Comparison Chart – https://www.noktadetectors.com/simplex-new-generation-comparison-chart/
8. Nokta Search Coils Compatibility – https://www.noktadetectors.com/search-coils/
9. TreasureNet User Reviews – https://www.treasurenet.com/threads/simplex-ultra-what-a-nice-machine.696517/