Description
The GDX8000 sits in an unusual place. It is built like a budget machine but carries features normally found further up the range: six search modes, both automatic and manual ground balance, and numerical target identification rather than tone alone. The interchangeable coil trays are the part most owners end up valuing, because they let one machine cover rubbish filled ground and open farmland without buying a second detector.
What the GDX8000 Does Well
Specification
- Model GDX8000
- Detection frequency 5kHz
- Ground balance Automatic and manual
- Search modes Six
- Target identification Audio plus numerical value recognition
- Weight 3.9kg
- Battery 72Wh lithium, 8 to 10 hours
- Shaft length Adjustable, 0.9m to 1.29m
- Standard coil 11 inch disc
- Headphones Wired, 3.5mm jack
- Compatible coil trays 8 inch, 11 inch camouflage, 12 by 15 inch, 14 inch, 6 by 11 inch, 11 by 17 inch and 18 inch
Who It Suits
Why Buy From Us
Not sure this is the right level? Our beginner range starts at £79.95, and the most popular models page shows what customers actually choose.
GDX8000 Questions, Answered
How deep does the GDX8000 go?
On a coin sized target in British soil, expect six to ten inches like any machine in this class. Larger iron objects read considerably deeper. The bigger coil trays add a little depth on substantial targets and cover ground faster, at the cost of missing small finds.
Is the GDX8000 a gold detector?
It will find gold rings, coins and jewellery, as any decent detector will. It is not a nugget machine. At 5kHz it lacks the sensitivity to small natural gold that a high frequency prospecting detector has.
How long does the battery last?
Eight to ten hours from the 72Wh lithium pack, which covers a full day out with margin. That is noticeably better than the AA powered machines at similar money.
Can I change the coil?
Yes, and it is the most useful upgrade path on this machine. Seven tray sizes fit, from an 8 inch for rubbish and old house sites up to an 18 inch for open ground.
Is it heavy to use all day?
At 3.9kg it is heavier than a starter machine, so the shaft adjustment and your swing technique matter. Keep the coil low and let your arm hang rather than holding it out.
What is the difference between the search modes?
The modes change how aggressively the machine rejects iron and ground noise. Most owners settle on one general mode and switch to a quieter one only on heavily contaminated ground. Spend your first sessions learning one mode properly.
Does it come with headphones?
It has a wired 3.5mm headphone socket. Using headphones rather than the speaker is the cheapest way to hear faint deep targets that you would otherwise walk past.
Do I need permission to use it?
Yes, from the landowner, every time, and scheduled monuments are off limits. See how to get permission.









Torg H –
Best gold detector money can buy! Mine paid for itself already. Good build quality and astounding depth.