The Quest Q20, Q40, and Pro metal detectors offer three distinct approaches to treasure hunting, each targeting different skill levels and budgets. While all three share Quest's lightweight design philosophy and impressive battery life, they differ significantly in features like waterproofing, smartphone connectivity, and search capabilities.
We'll break down exactly what separates these three Quest models so you can pick the right detector for your hunting style and experience level.
Quest Metal Detector Key Similarities
Before diving into the differences, all three Quest metal detectors share several standout features that make them competitive in today's market:
- Lightweight design allows for extended hunting sessions without arm fatigue
- Adjustable handle accommodates both left- and right-handed users
- Large LCD screen with easy-to-read target identification
- Rechargeable lithium battery with up to 30 hours usage per charge
- 99-point target ID system for accurate metal identification
- Both automatic and manual ground balance options
The long battery life alone sets these detectors apart from many competitors that struggle to reach 15-20 hours of operation.
Quest Q20: The Entry-Level Choice
The Q20 serves as Quest's beginner-friendly option, though it doesn't sacrifice essential features for affordability. Operating at 9kHz VLF frequency, it handles most coin and jewelry hunting tasks well.
Key Q20 specifications:
- Three search programs: Coin, Jewelry, and All Metal modes
- 9" x 5" Blade search coil for good target separation
- Wired headphones included (no wireless option)
- 2.31 lbs total weight
- Weatherproof but not submersible
- Standard USB charging
The Q20 works best for park hunting, beach detecting above the waterline, and general treasure hunting in moderate soil conditions. The 9kHz frequency provides decent depth on coins and small jewelry.
Quest Q40: The Versatile Middle Ground
The Q40 adds several practical upgrades that make it significantly more versatile than the Q20. The higher 13kHz frequency improves sensitivity to small gold jewelry and provides better performance in mineralized soil.
Q40 upgrades include:
- Six search programs: Coin, Jewelry, All Metal, Beach, plus two customizable modes
- 11" x 9" Raptor search coil for increased depth and coverage
- WireFree wireless headphones included
- Backlit LCD display for low-light detecting
- 13kHz frequency for improved small target sensitivity
- 2.97 lbs with the larger coil
The Beach mode specifically handles saltwater conditions better than the Q20, making the Q40 a solid choice for detectorists who hunt various environments. The wireless headphones eliminate cord snags in dense vegetation.
Quest Pro: The Smart Metal Detector
Quest calls the Pro the "world's first Smart Metal Detector," and the smartphone integration does set it apart from traditional detectors. The QuestGo app connectivity appeals to detectorists who want to track their finds and share hunting data.
Pro-only features:
- Three selectable frequencies: 5kHz, 13kHz, and 20kHz
- Bluetooth smartphone connectivity with QuestGo app
- Fully waterproof to 20 feet for underwater detecting
- Built-in flashlight for low-light conditions
- Gold Mode optimized for prospecting
- Motion and non-motion All Metal modes
- Both Blade (9" x 5") and Raptor (11" x 9") coils included
- Magnetic charging system
The multiple frequency options make the Pro adaptable to different hunting conditions. Use 5kHz for deep large targets, 13kHz for general detecting, or 20kHz for small gold and jewelry. The full waterproofing opens up underwater hunting opportunities not possible with the Q20 or Q40.
Complete Specifications Comparison
| Quest Q20 | Quest Q40 | Quest Pro | |
| Working Method | 9kHz VLF Induction Balance | 13kHz VLF Induction Balance | 5kHz, 13kHz, 20kHz Selectable |
| Smartphone Integration | Not available | Not available | Bluetooth with QuestGo app |
| Waterproof Rating | Weatherproof, splashproof only | Weatherproof, splashproof only | Fully submersible to 20 feet |
| Audio Options | Built-in speaker, wired headphones | Built-in speaker, wireless headphones | Built-in speaker, wireless headphones |
| Search Programs | 3 modes: Coin, Jewelry, All Metal | 6 modes: Coin, Jewelry, All Metal, Beach, 2 Custom | 7 modes: Coin, Jewelry, Beach, Gold, Deep, 2 Custom |
| Search Coils | 9" x 5" Blade coil | 11" x 9" Raptor coil | Both 9" x 5" Blade and 11" x 9" Raptor |
| Weight | 2.31 lbs | 2.97 lbs | 2.31 lbs (Blade) / 2.97 lbs (Raptor) |
| Display | 60 x 70mm LCD | 60 x 70mm LCD with backlight | 60 x 70mm LCD with backlight |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours | 20 hours wireless / 30 hours speaker | 20 hours wireless / 30 hours speaker |
| Charging | USB cable | USB cable | Magnetic charging |
| Extra Features | None | None | Built-in flashlight |
Which Quest Metal Detector Should You Choose?
Choose the Quest Q20 if:
You're new to metal detecting and want proven performance without paying for features you won't use. The Q20 handles park hunting, dry beach detecting, and general treasure hunting effectively. The wired headphones aren't a dealbreaker for most beginners, and the lighter weight reduces arm fatigue during learning sessions.
Choose the Quest Q40 if:
You hunt diverse locations including saltwater beaches and want the convenience of wireless headphones. The larger Raptor coil covers more ground and reaches deeper targets than the Q20's Blade coil. The backlit display and Beach mode make this the most versatile option for detectorists who hunt various environments.
Choose the Quest Pro if:
You want the latest technology and plan to hunt underwater or in challenging conditions. The multiple frequencies, smartphone integration, and full waterproofing justify the higher price for serious detectorists. Getting both coils included adds significant value since you won't need to buy additional coils immediately.
Performance in Real-World Conditions
All three Quest detectors handle moderate soil mineralization well thanks to their ground balance capabilities. The Pro's multiple frequencies give it an edge in heavily mineralized ground or when switching between target types.
For beach detecting, the Q40 and Pro both offer dedicated Beach modes, while the Q20 requires more manual adjustment in saltwater conditions. Only the Pro handles underwater detecting due to its full submersible rating.
In trashy areas with lots of iron, all three models provide similar discrimination capabilities. The Pro's non-motion All Metal mode can help identify good targets among trash when you're willing to slow down and investigate signals carefully.
Quest Metal Detector Value Analysis
Quest positioned these three detectors to compete directly with established brands while offering longer battery life and competitive pricing. The Q20 competes with entry-level Garrett and Fisher models, while the Pro challenges mid-range detectors from major manufacturers.
The wireless headphones included with the Q40 and Pro add real value since quality wireless detecting headphones typically cost $100-200 separately. The Pro's dual coil package would cost significantly more if purchased individually.
All three Quest models include automatic and manual ground balance options typically found only on more expensive detectors. This feature becomes crucial when hunting in varying soil conditions or transitioning from land to beach detecting.
