- Detection depth (wood): Up to 19 mm
- Detection depth (metal): Up to 19 mm
- Live wire detection: Up to 50 mm
- Power supply: 9 V battery
- Accuracy: ±3 mm (wood), ±6 mm (metal).
- Weight: 250 g
- Audio signal: Yes
More info on the Stanley product page
Best rule finder for professionals and amateurs
By Simon Berg Nov 15, 2024
Stud finders are essential tools for anyone involved in wall mounting, renovation, or other projects where precision is important.
A stud finder helps you locate studs, pipes, and wires in walls, ceilings, or floors, reducing the risk of damage to hidden installations and increasing safety when drilling. Here’s an overview of some of the best stud finders on the market, their features, pros and cons, and what to consider when choosing the right model.
Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Stud Finder
To get the most out of a stud finder, it’s good to know some key features that can affect performance and user-friendliness:
Detection Depth
Stud finders vary in how deep they can detect materials such as wood, metal, and electrical wiring. The deeper the detection capability, the more versatile and useful the device is.
Type of Material
Some stud finders can only locate wood, while others can also detect metal, plastic, or electrical wires. Choose a model that suits the materials you most often work with.
Accuracy
For professional work, high precision can be crucial to avoid damaging wires or pipes. A more accurate model can also reduce the risk of misplacement when drilling.
Visual and Audio Signals
Many stud finders offer both audio signals and visual indicators to signal when something has been found. This can facilitate work, especially in areas where it is difficult to see the display.
Battery Life
A stud finder with long battery life can be advantageous for longer projects, especially if the tool does not have a low battery indicator.
1. Stanley S200
Price Range: 370 - 390 SEK
The Stanley S200 is a reliable and user-friendly stud finder, ideal for detecting wood studs, metal, and live wires in walls. Its simple design and basic features make it a great tool for home projects and small construction jobs.
- Self-calibration.
- Live wire warning (LED and sound).
- Marking channel for precise marking.
- Easy to use with clear detection signals.
- Ideal for basic home projects.
- Affordable solution for DIY work.
- Limited detection depth compared to more advanced models.
Quality
8/10
Ease of use
9/10
Performance
8/10
Value for money
9/10
Total rating: 8.5/10
2. Zircon Multiscanner HD900
Price Range: 1,000 - 1,500 SEK
The Zircon Multiscanner HD900 is an advanced stud finder that combines precision and versatility. Designed to locate wood studs, metal, and live wires in walls and ceilings, it is an ideal tool for both home projects and professional applications.
- Detection depth (wood): Up to 19 mm
- Detection depth (metal): Up to 38 mm
- Live wire detection: Up to 51 mm
- Power supply: 9 V battery
- Accuracy: ±3 mm (wood), ±5 mm (deeper wood/metal).
- Weight: 227 g
- Audio signal: Yes
More info on the Zircon product page
- Multiple modes: StudScan, DeepScan, Metal Scan, AC Scan.
- Backlit LCD and SpotLite® Pointer.
- Highly versatile and accurate for various materials.
- Clear visual and audio indication during operation.
- Perfect for both DIY users and professionals.
- Requires a 9 V battery that may drain quickly with heavy use.
Quality
9/10
Ease of use
8/10
Performance
9/10
Value for money
8/10
Total rating: 8.5/10
3. Bosch GMS 120
Price Range: 1,100 - 1,700 SEK
The Bosch GMS 120 is a popular and versatile stud finder used by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Designed to quickly and accurately locate wood studs, metal, and live wires, it is an indispensable tool for installation and renovation projects.
- Detection depth (wood): Up to 38 mm
- Detection depth (metal): Up to 120 mm
- Live wire detection: Up to 50 mm
- Power supply: 1 x 9 V battery
- Accuracy: ±10 mm.
- Weight: 270 g
- Audio signal: Yes
More info on the Bosch product page
- Automatic calibration system.
- Dust-resistant (IP54).
- High detection accuracy for various materials.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy handling.
- Perfect for both beginners and professionals.
- The LCD screen can be difficult to read in poor lighting conditions.
Quality
9/10
Ease of use
9/10
Performance
9/10
Value for money
8/10
Total rating: 8.8/10
4. Zircon X85
Price Range: 2,200 - 2,600 SEK
The Zircon X85 is a high-performance stud finder offering advanced features to locate wood studs, metal, and live wires. With its high-resolution LCD display and multiple detection modes, it is designed for professional users who demand accuracy and reliability.
- Detection depth (wood): Up to 50 mm
- Detection depth (metal): Up to 50 mm
- Live wire detection: Up to 50 mm
- Power supply: 3 X AAA (LR03)
- Accuracy: ±5 mm.
- Weight: 140 g
- Audio signal: Yes
More info on the Zircon product page
- Thermal detection for water-filled plastic pipes.
- SpotLite® Marker.
- Self-compensating calibration.
- High precision for various types of materials and depths.
- Easy to use thanks to the intuitive display.
- Advanced features for professional applications.
- Requires careful battery management for optimal performance.
Quality
8/10
Ease of use
9/10
Performance
8/10
Value for money
8/10
Total rating: 8.3/10
5. Bosch D-tect 120
Price Range: 2,200 - 2,600 SEK
The Bosch D-tect 120 is a professional stud finder that combines advanced radar-based technology with user-friendly features. It is ideal for quickly and accurately locating studs, metal, plastic, and live wires, even in thick materials like concrete and masonry.
- Detection depth (wood): Up to 38 mm
- Detection depth (metal): Up to 120 mm
- Live wire detection: Up to 60 mm
- Power supply: 12 V lithium ion or 4
x 1.5V LR6 (AA) - Accuracy: ±10 mm.
- Weight: 500 g
- Audio signal: Yes
More info on the Zircon product page
- Dual Power Source.
- Spot measurement and Center Finder.
- Exceptionally accurate for complex materials.
- User-friendly with intuitive design and clear display.
- Robust construction for professional use.
- Slightly heavy compared to simpler models, but the advanced technology compensates for it.
Quality
9/10
Ease of use
9/10
Performance
9/10
Value for money
8/10
Total rating: 8.8/10
Compare products
| # | Product | Detection depth (wood) | Price Range (SEK)Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanley S200 | Up to 19 mm | 370 - 390370 - 390 SEK |
| 2 | Zircon Multiscanner HD900 | Up to 19 mm | 1,000 - 1,5001,000 - 1,500 SEK |
| 3 | Bosch GMS 120 | Up to 38 mm | 1,100 - 1,7001,100 - 1,700 SEK |
| 4 | Zircon X85 | Up to 50 mm | 2,200 - 2,6002,200 - 2,600 SEK |
| 5 | Bosch D-tect 120 | Up to 38 mm | 2,200 - 2,6002,200 - 2,600 SEK |
Summary
Stud finders are invaluable tools for locating studs, pipes, and electrical wires behind walls and ceilings. From versatile and high-performance models like the Bosch D-tect 120 and Zircon X85, to reliable and affordable options like the Stanley S200 and Bosch GMS 120, there’s a model for every need. Choose the right stud finder based on your specific requirements, work environment, and budget.
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