Minelab X-Terra Elite vs. X-Terra Pro: Which Detector is Right for You?
When it comes to modern, high-performance metal detecting at an affordable price point, Minelab has changed the game with the X-Terra series. Whether you are a beginner looking for your first serious machine or a seasoned detectorist needing a reliable backup, the Minelab X-Terra Pro and the all-new Minelab X-Terra Elite are top contenders.
But what is the difference between them? And can they really use the high-performance coils from the Equinox range? (Spoiler: Yes, they can!)
At a Glance: The Core Difference
While both machines share a rugged, waterproof chassis and excellent ergonomics, the engine under the hood is different.
- X-Terra Pro: Uses Pro-Switch™ Technology. This allows you to switch between single frequencies (5, 8, 10, or 15 kHz) to suit your specific target and environment.
- X-Terra Elite: Uses Multi-IQ® Technology. This is Minelab’s famous Simultaneous Multi-Frequency engine (found in the Equinox and Manticore), allowing the detector to listen to all frequencies at once for maximum depth and stability in difficult soil.
Minelab X-Terra Pro Review
The X-Terra Pro is designed to be the ultimate "switch on and go" detector. It is fully waterproof and offers features usually reserved for much more expensive machines.
✅ The Pros
- Price: Unbeatable value for a fully waterproof (up to 5m/16ft) detector.
- Pro-Switch: Ability to manually select 5, 8, 10, or 15 kHz gives you control over interference and specific target sizes.
- Ergonomics: Lightweight with a collapsible shaft, identical to the Elite and Equinox designs.
- Vibration Mode: Handle vibration is excellent for underwater use or hearing-impaired users.
❌ The Cons
- Single Frequency Only: It does not use Multi-IQ, meaning you must choose one frequency at a time. It may struggle more than the Elite in wet salt sand or highly mineralised ground.
- Recovery Speed: Slightly slower recovery speed compared to the Elite in dense iron trash.
Minelab X-Terra Elite Review
The X-Terra Elite takes the same rugged body as the Pro but upgrades the internal processor to run Multi-IQ. This makes it a direct competitor to the Equinox series, offering simultaneous multi-frequency detection at a mid-range price.
✅ The Pros
- Multi-IQ Technology: Scans multiple frequencies at once. This provides superior detection in wet saltwater sand and highly mineralised soil compared to the Pro.
- Iron Control: Advanced Iron Bias settings allow for better separation of non-ferrous targets in trashy sites.
- Audio: Rich, multi-tone audio that provides more nuanced information about the target before you dig.
- Depth: Generally offers better depth on small targets in difficult ground conditions.
❌ The Cons
- Price: Higher cost than the X-Terra Pro (though still cheaper than an Equinox).
- Battery Consumption: Multi-frequency processing can drain the battery slightly faster than single-frequency operation.
Technical Comparison
Use this table to quickly compare the specifications. We have highlighted the key upgrades in the Elite model.
Features & Settings Breakdown
| Feature | Minelab X-Terra Pro | Minelab X-Terra Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Core Engine | Pro-Switch™ (Single Frequency) | Multi-IQ® (Simultaneous Multi-Freq) |
| Operating Frequencies | 5, 8, 10, or 15 kHz (Selectable) | Multi-IQ (All at once) or 15 kHz |
| Iron Bias | Fixed (Standard) | Adjustable (-1 to 2) |
| Search Modes | Park, Field, Beach | Park, Field, Beach |
| Target ID Range | -19 to 99 (119 Segments) | -19 to 99 (119 Segments) |
| Recovery Speed | Adjustable (Levels 1 to 3) | Adjustable (Levels 1 to 3) |
| Waterproof Rating | 5m (16ft) IP68 | 5m (16ft) IP68 |
| Weight | 1.3kg (2.9lbs) | 1.3kg (2.9lbs) |
| Flashlight & Vibrate | Yes | Yes |
Key Differences Explained
- The Engine: The Pro requires you to choose a frequency (e.g., 5kHz for silver, 15kHz for gold). The Elite uses Multi-IQ to listen for both simultaneously, making it much easier to use on beaches where salt interferes with single frequencies.
- Iron Bias: The Elite features an Adjustable Iron Bias (-1 to 2). This professional setting allows you to filter out bottle caps and iron falsing much more effectively than the fixed setting on the Pro.
The Secret Weapon: Coil Compatibility
One of the massive advantages of the new X-Terra series is the ecosystem Minelab has built. Both the X-Terra Elite and X-Terra Pro have cross-compatibility with a huge range of search coils.
1. Minelab Equinox Range Compatibility
Both the X-Terra Elite and X-Terra Pro can use the official Minelab coils designed for the Equinox 600, 700, 800, and 900.
- EQX 06 (6-inch): Perfect for trashy parks or tight spaces.
- EQX 11 (11-inch): The standard all-rounder.
- EQX 15 (15x12-inch): For maximum depth on open pasture.
2. Coiltek Nox Coil Compatibility
For the serious enthusiast, Coiltek's "Nox" series coils are fully compatible with both the X-Terra Elite and X-Terra Pro. These aftermarket coils are renowned for their build quality and performance.
- Coiltek 10x5 Nox: A sniper coil that offers incredible separation in iron-infested sites.
- Coiltek 14x9 Nox: An elliptical coil that balances depth with easy maneuverability in water.
- Coiltek 15-inch & 18-inch Nox: Beastly coils for deep-seeking hoards and relics on clear ground.
Note: When using an Equinox or Coiltek coil on an X-Terra Pro, the detector will function perfectly, though it will operate in the single frequency you have selected.
Verdict
If you are on a strict budget and detect mostly on inland fields or dry sand, the X-Terra Pro is an incredible bargain. However, if you detect on wet saltwater beaches or want the "do-it-all" power of Simultaneous Multi-Frequency, the X-Terra Elite is worth the extra investment.
Both machines give you the flexibility to upgrade your performance later by adding Minelab Equinox or Coiltek Nox coils to your arsenal.
