The Nokta Simplex New Generation lineup has completely redesigned what budget-friendly metal detecting looks like. At just 2.6 pounds and waterproof to 16 feet, these detectors pack serious performance into an incredibly lightweight package that won't wear you down during long hunts.
We've tested both the Simplex BT and Simplex ULTRA extensively, and here's what you need to know about each model before making your choice.
What's New in the Simplex New Generation
The biggest improvement over the original Simplex series is the dramatic weight reduction - from 3.1 pounds down to just 2.6 pounds. That might not sound like much, but after a 4-hour hunt, your arm will definitely feel the difference.
The waterproof rating has also been upgraded to 5 meters (16 feet), making these detectors suitable for serious underwater treasure hunting, not just wading in shallow water. The new ergonomic design feels more balanced, and all three models now include Bluetooth connectivity as standard.
Simplex BT vs Simplex ULTRA: Key Differences
Both models share the same lightweight design and waterproof capabilities, but there are some important distinctions:
Simplex BT Features
- 3 search modes (Field, Park, Beach)
- Manual ground balance
- Notch discrimination
- Standard coil included
- Most affordable entry point
Simplex ULTRA Advantages
- 5 search modes (adds All Metal and Deep modes)
- Automatic and manual ground balance
- Advanced target ID system
- Better depth performance on small targets
- Available with or without headphones
For most beginners, the Simplex BT offers everything you need to get started. The ULTRA makes sense if you're planning to hunt in challenging ground conditions or want maximum depth on small gold nuggets.
Real-World Performance
We've used the Simplex New Generation models across different hunting scenarios. On the beach, the 16-foot waterproof rating lets you hunt in surf that would damage most other detectors in this price range. The salt water handling is excellent - we rarely needed to adjust ground balance even in wet sand.
In trashy parks with lots of iron debris, the discrimination works well enough to cherry-pick good targets without missing silver coins. The lightweight design really shines during long relic hunting sessions - you can swing for hours without shoulder fatigue.
Bluetooth Headphone Performance
All three models support standard Bluetooth headphones, which is rare in this price range. The aptX Low Latency support eliminates the audio delay that makes most Bluetooth detecting headphones unusable. You can use any quality Bluetooth headphones you already own, or upgrade to Nokta's aptX headphones for zero delay.
Who Should Buy Which Model
Choose the Simplex BT if: You're new to metal detecting and want proven performance at the lowest price. The three search modes cover 90% of detecting situations.
Choose the Simplex ULTRA if: You plan to hunt in mineralized soil, want maximum depth on small targets, or prefer having automatic ground balance for changing conditions.
Choose the ULTRA with Headphones if: You don't already own quality headphones and want everything included in one package.
Comparison to Other Beginner Detectors
Against other waterproof detectors in this price range, the Simplex New Generation models offer better depth and much lighter weight. The 16-foot waterproof rating beats most competitors that only handle 3-10 feet.
For beach and underwater treasure hunting, the salt water performance rivals detectors costing twice as much. The lightweight design makes it particularly appealing for younger detectorists or anyone with mobility concerns.
Bottom Line
The Nokta Simplex New Generation series delivers professional-level waterproofing and detection capabilities in a package that beginners can actually afford. The weight reduction and improved ergonomics address the main complaints from the original series.
We'd recommend the Simplex BT for most new detectorists - it has everything you need to find coins, jewelry, and relics effectively. Step up to the ULTRA only if you specifically need the extra search modes or plan to hunt in highly mineralized ground.
