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7 Best Stud Finders of 2024

Updated
Finding studs, AC wires, and metal pipes with these top stud finders.

How do you know what lies beneath your wall? The best stud finders help you locate studs beneath the surface so you can get the job done faster and with less guesswork.

We analyzed the benefits of stud finders and gauged opinions of professionals and buyers to reveal how they work, what they do, and why you should own one.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
Best Value for Money
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
  • Easy to use, which is ideal for beginners
  • No batteries to replace or charge
  • Compact and cheap
Product Image of the The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder
Best Magnetic
The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder
  • Simple to use, making it ideal for beginners
  • Compact and thin for easy storage
  • Hands-free operation when it finds the stud
Product Image of the Zircon Multiscanner 740 Electronic Wall Scanner
Best Electronic
Zircon Multiscanner 740 Electronic Wall Scanner
  • 4 scanning modes cover every possibility
  • Wire warning feature that alerts when scanning live AC wires
  • Auto-correction feature to improve accuracy
Product Image of the FOLAI Finder Detector 5-in-1 Multifunction Wall
Best Budget Pick
FOLAI Finder Detector 5-in-1 Multifunction Wall
  • 5 scanning modes, including metal, AC wires, and wood
  • Incredible retail price
  • Center-finding feature for better accuracy
Product Image of the Precision Sensors ProFinder 5000
Best Professional
Precision Sensors ProFinder 5000
  • 13 sensors for deeper scanning
  • Wide sensor pad increases your work rate
  • Simple to use switch it on and start locating
Product Image of the Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner GMS120
Best Laser Level
Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner GMS120
  • Highly accurate to within 0.0625 mm
  • Pinpoint laser technology penetrates deeper
  • Finds live AC wires, wood, and metal
Product Image of the Tavool Stud Finder 4-in-1 Electronic Stud Sensor
Best Ergonomic
Tavool Stud Finder 4-in-1 Electronic Stud Sensor
  • 4 scanning modes for metal, depth, wood, and AC wires
  • Self-calibration for better accuracy
  • Ergonomic handle for comfort

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we thoroughly analyze and evaluate the best stud finders to help you make informed decisions. Our hands-on experiences, coupled with rigorous checks and professional assessment, provide reliable results. We compare key performance metrics, track and rank product features based on set standards, and offer a comprehensive review that covers all essential criteria. Our evaluations tackle design choices, user experience, and distinctive features that set certain models apart. We measure and document each product’s effectiveness, accuracy and ease of use, to ensure our recommendations are based on solid facts and data. Trust us for factual, unbiased advice and insights on stud finders.



The Best Stud Finders of 2024

Having spent hours researching and reviewing the best stud finders, we bring you our top 7 choices based on customer experience, sales numbers, and ratings.

CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder

Best Value Stud Finder

This CH Hanson magnetic stud finder is an exercise in simplicity. It is compact, requires no batteries, and even has a 2-way level finder. Because this stud finder is magnetic, you can place it on the wall, and once it finds the stud, it stays there, giving you a hands-free option.

This is the ideal stud finder for home use, and because it is such a simple system, it will not malfunction. The price is also attractive, retailing for a fraction of the cost of more expensive models.

There are downsides. It isn’t the best tool for finding studs on thicker walls, and it won’t help you locate pipework and electrical wires. But for such a low price, you wouldn’t expect this stud finder to be comparable to more advanced devices.

Pros

  • Easy to use, which is ideal for beginners.
  • No batteries to replace or charge.
  • Compact and cheap.
  • Comes with a 2-way level.

Cons

  • Limited to shallow surfaces.
  • No pipework or electrical wire function.
  • Doesn’t locate wooden studs.

Product Specs

Weight 3.2 oz
Dimensions 3.18 x 1.91 x 7.62 cm
Type Magnetic
Features 2-way level
Price $$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
2.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

I'm a regular DIY enthusiast and these stud finder has been a handy addition to my toolbox. It's compact and brightly colored, making it easy to handle and spot among my tools, and the strong magnet clings to nails in the wall, helping me map out studs with ease. There is a slight learning curve as it can be tough to differentiate between screws and wall imperfections, but with some practice, it becomes intuitive. Just a heads up, due to its magnetic strength, it tends to stick to anything metallic within reach, so keep an eye on it when working with other metal tools.

The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder

Best Magnetic Stud Finder

StudBuddy claims that this is the world’s simplest stud finder, and it certainly looks like a basic system. It is magnetic, so it requires no batteries. You place it on the wall, and it goes hands-free when the stud is located. It also finds wood behind drywall, but it won’t work with plaster walls.

The magnet is a powerful neodymium variety, and because the StudBuddy is so small and thin, it slips into your pocket easily. The other great thing is you get 2 stud finders for the price, so individually, this stud finder is the cheapest to feature.

It is a limited device. You don’t get any LCD, no indicator lights, or beeping alarms to alert you. All you get is the pull of the magnet when it detects the stud.

Pros

  • Simple to use, making it ideal for beginners.
  • Compact and thin for easy storage.
  • Hands-free operation when it finds the stud.
  • Powerful neodymium magnet requires no batteries.

Cons

  • Doesn’t work on plaster walls.
  • Lacks any features and displays.
  • Limited to drywall only.

Product Specs

Weight 4.5 oz
Dimensions 5.75 x 1 x 1.13
Type Magnetic
Features N/a
Price $$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
2 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Definitely, this product stands out with its straightforward and hassle-free usage. Based on my experience, these stud finders are far superior to their electronic counterparts, offering spot-on accuracy without the usual struggles like dead batteries or false readings. What I appreciate most is the simplicity; just slide them on the wall in a zigzag pattern until they find the stud. They cling to the stud securely, eliminating the need for marking the wall prior to drilling or hammering. These stud finders, in their simplicity and effectiveness, have truly made my DIY projects much easier.

Zircon Multiscanner 740 Electronic Wall Scanner

Best Electronic Stud Finder

The differences between this Zircon multi-scanner and the CH Hanson are stark. This model has 4 scanning modes for AC wires, depth, wood, and metal. It has an auto-correcting feature to help improve user accuracy and a floating head that stays flat even when scanning over rough surfaces.

In StudScan and DeepScan mode, it detects the edges and the center of wooden joists and metal and wooden studs. In MetalScan, it finds non-ferrous metal like copper pipes and ferrous metal such as Rebar.

The AC Scan locates live and unshielded electrical AC wires. It also has a Wire Warning that operates when in StudScan mode when you find live AC wires. And when you discover your target, it has an erasable marker that pinpoints the exact location of the stud.

This model is the complete package, but all this technology costs. This one retails at over 3 times the price of the CH Hanson model. Many users also report that it locates wires, but when they make a second pass over the same spot, it shows no results.

Pros

  • 4 scanning modes cover every possibility.
  • Wire Warning feature that alerts when scanning live AC wires.
  • Auto-correction feature to improve accuracy.
  • Floating head for scanning rough surfaces.

Cons

  • Expensive compared to other models.
  • Possible inaccurate readings according to some buyers.

Product Specs

Weight 4.8 oz
Dimensions 21,59 x 10.16 x 5.08 cm
Type Electronic
Features Wire warning, auto-correct
Price $$$$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Great Zircon stud finder, but not without its flaws. The display lighting and integrated marking feature make for a user-friendly experience, although the screen can be tough to read from certain angles. The scanner is fairly accurate, though it occasionally confuses other objects for studs. The one downside is the need to continuously hold down the power button for operation, which can tire your hand over time.

FOLAI Finder Detector 5-in-1 Multifunction Wall

Best Budget Stud Finder

The first thing you notice about this stud finder is the incredible price. For a 5-in-1 finder, it seems ridiculously cheap, which is why it has such substantial sales numbers on Amazon.

It has 5 scanning modes that detect wood, metal, live AC wires, copper pipes, and metal brackets. It even locates deeply embedded objects in ceilings. The grip is ergonomic, and it has an auto-calibration feature for convenience and increased accuracy.

The LCD locates the object and tells you when you are near the center, with the warning signal getting louder the closer you get to the target.

According to some buyers, when scanning the wall, you need to keep the stud finder completely flat because if you tilt it, it loses the signal and starts to beep.

Pros

  • 5 scanning modes, including metal, AC wires, and wood.
  • Incredible retail price.
  • Center-finding feature for better accuracy.
  • Auto-calibration and ergonomic grip for comfort.

Cons

  • Unless completely flat, the scanner loses signal.

Product Specs

Weight 5.4 oz
Dimensions 5.4 x 7 x 3.2 cm
Type Electronic
Features Auto-calibration
Price $$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Bought this stud finder after years of using other less accurate brands and I've found it to be the best so far. This stud finder is lightweight, straightforward to use, and provides a clear visual readout, though it struggles with distinguishing between different depth settings and doesn't detect live AC wiring accurately. Despite some minor shortcomings, such as a hard-to-read screen unless looked at straight on, this stud finder proved useful for hanging pictures and heavy items, and was particularly impressive in finding the exact center of studs, which is a crucial feature for drilling or nailing into walls.

Precision Sensors ProFinder 5000

Best Professional Stud Finder

Sometimes professionals need a stud finder with greater capacity. This ProFinder has a wider sensor pad, which increases your range both in width and depth. It comes loaded with 13 sensors and a spirit level and ruler.

It’s also simple to use. Just switch it on, place it on the wall, and the light indicates the stud’s location. It may not be the most advanced stud finder, but it is super-accurate. The increased size of the pad means you can work your way along the wall faster to complete the task.

The only downside is it won’t find studs beneath ceramic tiles and other similar surfaces. Plus, while it locates most objects, it doesn’t tell you the shape or what it is because it lacks a readable display.

We get that this model is a pro scanner, but with so few features and the high price tag, it might put some people off.

Pros

  • 13 sensors for deeper scanning.
  • Wide sensor pad increases your work rate.
  • Simple to use. Switch it on and start locating.
  • Has a level and a ruler.

Cons

  • No LCD, so it doesn’t tell you the shape.
  • Doesn’t work on ceramic tiles.
  • Lacks features but has a high price tag.

Product Specs

Weight 14.1 oz
Dimensions 7 x 2 x 3 inches
Type Electronic
Features Spirit level and ruler
Price $$$$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

Love how this stud finder smoothly glides across the wall, thanks to its Teflon guides. This model is a little different from others, you just press the on button and hold it against the wall, and the 13 LED lights will show you the center of the stud. It's great for most normal walls, but it does struggle a bit with small spaces, rounded or uneven walls, and corners. The built-in measuring ruler and level are handy features, but remember, this stud finder isn't designed to detect metal objects or electrical currents.

Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner GMS120

Best Laser Level Stud Finder

This Bosch multi-scanner uses multi-mode laser detection to find metal and wooden studs, metal pipes, and live AC wires. Thanks to the latest laser technology, it penetrates up to 4.75 inches deep in cured concrete.

It also finds live wires up to 2 inches deep, over 3 inches for copper wire, and 1.5 inches for wooden studs. It has 3 scanning modes; wood, metal, and AC wiring, and the system self-calibrates for better accuracy when you switch it on.

As you would expect with this Bosch, it has a center-finding feature with an accuracy of 0.0625 mm.

On the downside, it is expensive compared to some stud finders, and you only get 3 scanning modes instead of 5 with comparable models.

Pros

  • Highly accurate to within 0.0625 mm.
  • Pinpoint laser technology penetrates deeper.
  • Finds live AC wires, wood, and metal.
  • Self-calibrates for better accuracy.

Cons

  • It only has 3 scanning modes.
  • Expensive compared to similar models.

Product Specs

Weight 9.6 oz
Dimensions 9.84 x 5.91 x 1.97 inches
Type Electronic
Features Self-calibration
Price $$$$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Great product overall, but there are some specifics to be aware of. While this studfinder does a decent job finding studs, it tends to give different center-points for the same stud, making it slightly tricky for precision work. The device's feature to locate live wires is broad, not specific, so it requires some patience and perhaps another tool for cross-checking.

Tavool Stud Finder 4-in-1 Electronic Stud Sensor

Best Ergonomic Stud Finder

This stud finder had to feature for sheer sales numbers alone. This model has sold in the tens of thousands. It’s a 4-in1 scanner, so it detects studs, metal, and live AC wires. Plus, it also has a deep scan facility.

It locates studs up to 1.2 inches in drywall, metal, aluminum, and copper up to 1.57 inches and wires up to 2.36 inches. It has an automatic calibration feature that activates when you turn on the unit. This increases your accuracy. It also has an ergonomic handle for a more comfortable experience.

The downside is this scanner is temperamental on rough surfaces, so detecting studs in exterior walls might be a challenge. Plus, many buyers have mentioned that it delivers inconsistent results.

Pros

  • 4 scanning modes for metal, depth, wood, and AC wires.
  • Self-calibration for better accuracy.
  • Ergonomic handle for comfort.
  • Deep scan facility for buried studs.

Cons

  • Doesn’t like rough surfaces.
  • Buyers indicate inaccurate results.

Product Specs

Weight 5.4 oz
Dimensions 6.49 x 2.75 x 1.1 inches
Type Electronic
Features Self-calibration, ergonomic handle
Price $$$

Our Ratings

Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

Bought this stud finder for some DIY projects around the house and its performance has been commendable. The multi-mode feature, alerting me to the left, right, and center points of a stud, is a helpful touch, although the need for calibration before each use can be a bit of a hassle. The device is lightweight, and its ability to detect not just studs, but metal pipes and electrical wires, adds to its versatility. However, its performance on thicker materials like ceramic was less consistent, suggesting it's more suited for drywall applications.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight Dimensions Type Features Price
CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder Best Value 3.2 oz 1.25″ x 0.75″ x 3″ Magnetic 2-way level $$
The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder Best Magnetic 4.5 oz 5.75″ x 1″ x 1.13″ Magnetic N/a $$
Zircon Multiscanner 740 Electronic Wall Scanner Best Electronic 4.8 oz ‎8.5″ x 4″ x 2″ Electronic Wire warning, auto-correct $$$$
FOLAI Finder Detector 5-in-1 Multifunction Wall Best Budget 5.4 oz 2.13″ x 2.76″ x 1.26″ Electronic Auto-calibration $$
Precision Sensors ProFinder 5000 Best Professional 14.1 oz 7″ x 2″ x 3″ Electronic Spirit level & ruler $$$$
Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner GMS120 Best Laser Level 9.6 oz 9.84″ x 5.91″ x 1.97″ Electronic Self-calibration $$$$
Tavool Stud Finder 4-in-1 Electronic Stud Sensor Best Ergonomic 5.4 oz 6.49″ x 2.75″ x 1.1″ Electronic Self-calibration, ergonomic handle $$$

How Do Stud Finders Work?

A stud finder is either an electronic or magnetic device that uses capacitance (a change in electrical charge) to detect metal studs and other supporting structures beneath the surface of your wall.

Because the stud is part of your wall support, the way the studs are inserted forms a logical pattern of a stud, then a gap, then a stud. The stud finder detects changes in the wall density to locate the studs and nails.

Stud finders have been around since the 80s, when the magnetic models first appeared on the market. Since then, they have come a long way. They are way more advanced and accurate today.

Types of Best Stud Finders

To decide which stud finder is right for you, we need to discuss the 3 main types of stud finders available. Each of the models does a specific task and suits every budget.

Magnetic

Magnetic stud finders are the original models, and they are still around today. The magnets have improved, along with their accuracy, but these models are less precise than their electronic and ultrasonic counterparts.

Magnetic devices are a lot easier to master and use. They react with the metal when the stud is located, sticking to the wall. If you are looking for a budget stud finder, a magnetic option could be a great choice.

Electronic

Electronic stud finders use electrical signals to find wall studs. The distinct advantage of an electronic stud finder is it is multi-talented. It can detect pipework and even live AC wires, making it incredibly useful to construction workers, homeowners, and electricians.

These modern devices are so accurate; they can even determine where the edge of the stud is rather than the middle.

Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic stud detectors use sound waves to locate studs beneath the surface. They are pricier and bulkier compared to the other two models, which makes them better suited to commercial settings.

How To Choose the Best Stud Finder

What are the important considerations to keep in mind when choosing a stud finder? Let’s find out.

What Is It For?

How you intend to use the stud finder matters because, for general DIY tasks, you could probably settle for an electronic or magnetic model. If you are using it commercially, you might get away with an electronic variety, but you might be better using an ultrasonic stud finder.

Type of Sensors

Stud finders come with sensors that differ in size and depth capabilities. This matters because if you are searching for nails and screws in a brick wall, you need something with the depth capability to work.

The wall depth, the material used to cover the wall, and the sensor’s abilities are all considerations when choosing your new device.

What About Accuracy?

Modern stud finders are more accurate than their magnetic counterparts. Some sensors are larger to cover more space. With a wider search area, you can accurately detect several studs in one hit.

While having more sensors spreads your range, they are less capable of dealing with deeper walls. Look for center-finding sensors that detect the stud with pinpoint accuracy, determining the edge of the stud.

What About the Budget?

The prices range massively. If all you want is a basic finder, you can spend as little as $15, while the more complex models with all the bells and whistles can cost $50 or more.

What About Self-Calibration?

Like all electronic devices, they need calibrating. Calibration is the way to ensure continued accuracy by resetting the sensors. Some do this automatically, which is super convenient. Others need manual calibration, which should happen regularly.


Tips for Using Stud Finders

As with all tools and devices, there are hints and tips to help you get the most from them. Here are some easy ways to use your stud finder.

Know Where To Start Looking

Sometimes some basic knowledge of where the studs are is the easiest way to use a stud finder. Door frames, window frames, even seams where the drywall meets the next sheet in the wall are all tell-tale signs of where the studs are likely to be.

Keep the Battery Charged

It all sounds so simple, but you’d be amazed how many times rechargeable batteries get forgotten about until it is too late. As the cell dies, you lose accuracy until, eventually, the stud finder is rendered unusable.

It’s also a great idea to keep a spare battery if your model allows for a detachable power pack.

Be Patient

Patience is always the best policy when locating studs. You might not find them straight away, even with the best quality stud finder. Don’t panic! You should start getting results within 15 minutes.


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Headshot of Mark Weir

About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.