Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Metal Detectors

Nokta Simplex Ultra vs Nokta The Legend 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Nokta The Legend 2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.8 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about experienced hobbyists who value versatile multi-frequency performance and precise target identification — read the strengths below before deciding.

Nokta Simplex Ultra
Ranked #4 in Best Metal Detectors
Nokta Simplex Ultra
4 sources$299as of Oct 3

The Nokta Simplex Ultra is a fully waterproof metal detector featuring an IP68 rating that allows complete submersion to 5 meters, paired with a lightweight carbon fiber shaft weighing just 1.2 kg for reduced fatigue during long sessions. Joan Allen praised its intuitive single-button interface and the expanded 0-99 target ID scale as essential tools for beginners navigating high-trash environments, while detectorformetal highlighted the effectiveness of its fixed 15 kHz frequency for coin shooting in parks. The device includes Bluetooth audio connectivity and a rechargeable battery providing 12 to 15 hours of runtime, offering significant convenience over older models requiring disposable cells. However, it is not optimized for hunting small gold nuggets or operating in highly mineralized ground where specialized high-frequency or Pulse Induction machines are required. This versatile all-around detector fits casual hunters and beginners seeking ease of use, while those targeting specific niche conditions should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — Fully waterproof to 5 meters (16 feet) with an IP68 rating, allowing submersion of the entire system including control box and coil.
  • — Lightweight carbon fiber shaft construction reduces fatigue during long sessions, weighing only 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs).
  • — Intuitive single-button interface allows beginners to start hunting in thirty seconds while retaining advanced settings for growth.
Watch-outs
  • — Not optimized for hunting small gold nuggets or highly mineralized ground where specialized high-frequency or Pulse Induction machines are required.
  • — Not suitable for extreme mineralization or specific targets requiring SMF technology
Nokta The Legend 2
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Metal Detectors
Nokta The Legend 2
6 sources1 derived$1,194.98as of Oct 3

The Nokta The Legend 2 improves upon its predecessor by offering simultaneous multi-frequency operation and an expanded 99-point Target ID scale, which seriousdetecting notes enhances depth and target separation across varied terrains. bigboyshobbies.net confirms that this finer granularity allows for more precise metal identification in trash-heavy environments, while the upgraded 6700 mAh battery eliminates the need for external power packs during long sessions. However, the device suffers from ergonomic compromises; joanallen found the arm cuff feels thin and plasticky compared to the rugged main body, and seriousdetecting reported that the telescopic shaft locking cams can be stiff and difficult to adjust with cold or wet hands. This detector fits experienced hobbyists who value versatility and waterproof performance for beach or relic hunting but may overwhelm beginners seeking extreme simplicity.

Strengths
  • — Simultaneous multi-frequency operation provides enhanced depth and target separation across various terrains.
  • — Expanded 99-point Target ID scale offers greater granularity in identifying buried metal types compared to the original Legend's 60-point scale.
  • — Weighs approximately 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg), making it significantly lighter than the original Legend for reduced fatigue during long sessions.
Watch-outs
  • — The arm cuff feels thin and plasticky compared to the rest of the detector's rugged build quality.
  • — Telescopic shaft locking cams can be stiff and difficult to adjust with cold or wet hands.

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Nokta The Legend 2

The Nokta The Legend 2 offers simultaneous multi-frequency operation, providing better depth and separation than the Simplex Ultra’s fixed frequency.

Specs side-by-side

SpecNokta Simplex UltraNokta The Legend 2
Waterproof RatingIP68 (5 meters)IP68 (5 meters)
Frequency15 kHz4, 10, 15, 20, 40 kHz
Battery Life12-15 hours6700 mAh increasing your runtime by up to 33%
Weight2.65 lb2.6 lb
Detection SystemVLF single frequencyVLF simultaneous multi-frequency
Target ID Scale01 to 9999 points
Coil Size28 cm / 11LD21, LD22, LD28 and LD38
Search ModesField, Park, 4 Tone, 99 Tone, Beach, All Metal5 (Park / Field / Beach / Relic / Gold)
MaterialCarbon FiberCarbon Fiber
← See the full ranking of best metal detectors