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.
Full review
15 kHz single frequency performance in field conditions
The Nokta Simplex Ultra operates on a fixed 15 kHz Very Low Frequency (VLF) system, which places it firmly outside the simultaneous multi-frequency category used by higher-end competitors like the Legend or Score. detectorformetal notes that this specific frequency acts as a smart middle ground for general hunting, offering deeper penetration than high-frequency gold machines while maintaining better target separation and trash rejection than lower 5 kHz models. This makes the machine particularly effective for coin shooting in parks where identifying silver versus iron is critical, though it lacks the raw mineralization handling of SMF technology.
Joan Allen tested the detector across various permissions, including wet coastal sands and Victorian-era park sites littered with ferrous debris. The fixed nature of the frequency means users cannot switch between bands to optimize for different soil types or target depths; they must rely on adjusting recovery speed and ground balance to adapt their search strategy.
For hunters prioritizing depth over nuanced separation, the 15 kHz VLF approach delivers substantial results. detectorformetal recorded a silver quarter at an eight-inch depth during a practical demonstration, validating the machine's capability despite its budget positioning. The single-frequency design simplifies the user experience by removing the need to manage multiple frequency bands simultaneously, allowing the detector to focus on delivering consistent audio feedback and target identification across a broad spectrum of common targets.
Target ID scale 0-99 improves discrimination accuracy
One of the most significant upgrades over previous Simplex models is the expansion of the Target Identification (TDI) scale from a limited range to a full 0-99 digital display. Joan Allen highlighted this feature as essential for managing high-trash environments, noting that the expanded scale allows hunters to notch out specific ferrous signals with much greater precision than older detectors offered. This granularity is particularly useful in urban parks or historical sites where iron nails and pull-tabs frequently trigger false positives.
The 0-99 scale integrates seamlessly with the machine's audio modes, providing distinct tonal feedback that correlates directly to the numerical reading. In practice, this means a hunter can hear a target sound like iron, look at the screen to see it reads in the low teens, and confidently decide whether to dig or leave it alone. This dual-sensory approach reduces guesswork and helps beginners learn what different metals sound like without constantly flipping through menus.
While the 0-99 scale is a major improvement over the older 1-60 scales found on entry-level detectors, it still operates within the constraints of single-frequency VLF technology. Serious Detecting noted that while the discrimination is excellent for general hunting, users expecting the absolute highest level of separation between similar conductors—such as distinguishing between a copper penny and an aluminum cap in highly mineralized soil—might find SMF machines like the Nokta Score to be slightly more forgiving. Nevertheless, for 95 percent of detecting scenarios, the expanded scale is more than sufficient.
Carbon fiber shaft reduces fatigue during long sessions
In her field tests, she spent five consecutive hours hunting on a field near Tealing and reported feeling no arm fatigue upon packing up, a stark contrast to her experience with heavier aluminum-shafted detectors. The lightweight design significantly reduces physical strain, making it an ideal choice for hunters who cover large areas or have limited upper body strength.
The weight distribution is carefully balanced around the control box and coil, ensuring that the detector feels stable during sweeping motions rather than top-heavy or cumbersome. This ergonomic advantage is compounded by the rubberized handle grip, which provides comfort even during extended use in varying weather conditions. The combination of light weight and smart balance allows hunters to maintain a consistent swing speed without tiring, which is crucial for maximizing detection depth and coverage.
For travelers and those who store their equipment in compact spaces, the carbon fiber shaft also collapses down to just 63 centimeters (25 inches). This compact form factor makes it easy to transport in a standard backpack or car trunk, addressing a common pain point for hunters who need to carry their gear over long distances. The robust cam-locks secure the shaft firmly once assembled, ensuring that the lightweight construction does not compromise structural integrity during vigorous use.
IP68 waterproofing enables full submersion up to 5 meters
The Simplex Ultra carries an IP68 rating, which detectorformetal emphasizes means the entire system—including the control box, shaft, and search coil—is fully waterproof down to 16 feet (5 meters). This is not a splash-resistant coating or a rain-proof design; it is built for actual underwater metal detecting. The control unit can be submerged in lakes, rivers, or ocean surf without risk of damage, opening up new hunting grounds that are inaccessible to standard dry-land detectors.
A critical feature for underwater use is the vibration motor, which activates when the detector goes below the water surface where audio signals are muffled by the liquid. This tactile feedback ensures hunters do not miss targets simply because they cannot hear them through their headphones while submerged. Joan Allen noted that this capability gives users incredible confidence to hunt in wet conditions or along riverbeds without worrying about ruining their investment.
The waterproofing extends to all external controls and ports, allowing the detector to withstand torrential downpours and accidental drops into water bodies. This durability makes it a reliable backup for hunters who already own high-end machines but need a rugged, submersible option for harsh environments. The ability to dunk the entire unit means that cleaning mud or salt off the control box is as simple as rinsing it under a tap, eliminating the anxiety of protecting expensive electronics from moisture.
Bluetooth audio and 12-15 hour battery life
The Simplex Ultra includes built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to pair it with wireless headphones for a cleaner, tangle-free detecting experience. This feature eliminates the need for coil cables that can snag on brush or limit movement, providing greater freedom while sweeping. The integration is straightforward, and the audio quality through compatible wireless headsets remains clear enough to discern subtle target tones and discrimination signals.
Powering the unit is a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides between 12 and 15 hours of continuous hunting time on a single charge. Joan Allen found this runtime more than sufficient for long days in the field, removing the hassle and ongoing cost of constantly replacing AA batteries required by older detectors. A full charge takes only a few hours via the included USB cable, making it easy to top up between sessions.
The battery indicator on the bright graphic LCD screen is clear and accurate, giving hunters ample warning before power runs out. This longevity ensures that users can focus on hunting rather than monitoring battery levels or carrying spare packs of disposable batteries. The combination of wireless audio and extended runtime makes the Simplex Ultra a highly convenient tool for both casual weekend hunters and serious prospectors who spend full days in the field.
Beginner-friendly interface retains advanced settings
Joan Allen gave the user experience a perfect 10 out of 10, praising Nokta for creating one of the most intuitive and easy-to-learn detectors ever made. The single-button interface allows beginners to turn on the machine and start hunting in thirty seconds without navigating complex menus. This simplicity lowers the barrier to entry for new hunters who might otherwise be overwhelmed by the technical jargon and settings found on professional-grade equipment.
However, the detector does not sacrifice depth for ease of use. Advanced features such as adjustable recovery speed (with five levels), manual ground balancing, and multiple search modes are all accessible when users are ready to learn more. This growth-oriented design means that a beginner can start with basic settings and gradually experiment with discrimination and sensitivity adjustments as their skills improve, ensuring the machine remains useful for years rather than becoming obsolete after six months.
The menu structure is logical and visually clear on the backlit LCD screen, allowing users to cycle through search modes like Field, Park, Beach, and All Metal without consulting a manual. This user-centric design philosophy addresses a common complaint about entry-level detectors: that they force users to accept dumbed-down features or complex interfaces that are difficult to master. The Simplex Ultra strikes a balance by hiding complexity behind a simple front-end while keeping it available for those who want to fine-tune their performance.
Limitations in extreme mineralization and gold prospecting
Despite its impressive feature set, the Simplex Ultra is not optimized for hunting small gold nuggets or operating in highly mineralized ground. Joan Allen explicitly noted that users with these specific goals would be better served by a specialized high-frequency VLF machine or a Pulse Induction (PI) detector, which are designed to penetrate deep mineralization and detect tiny conductors more effectively than 15 kHz systems.
The single-frequency VLF technology also has inherent limitations when compared to simultaneous multi-frequency (SMF) detectors like the Nokta Legend or Score in extreme soil conditions. In areas with high iron content or heavy mineralization, SMF machines can better filter out ground noise and maintain stability across a wider range of target types. While the Simplex Ultra handles typical park and field soils well, it may struggle to keep up with the raw performance of multi-frequency models in these challenging environments.
For hunters who do not intend to get their detector wet or hunt in trashy areas, some features like full waterproofing and advanced recovery speed adjustments might feel unnecessary. However, for the vast majority of users who want a versatile machine that can handle parks, beaches, rivers, and fields with equal competence, these limitations are minor trade-offs rather than deal-breakers. The detector excels as an all-around tool but is not a specialized niche instrument.
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.
- +Includes Bluetooth audio connectivity and a built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery providing 12-15 hours of runtime.
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
Rating sources
Our 4.6 score is the average of the 3 scored reviews above; 1 more reviewed it without printing a score and is not in the average. More about methodology.
