Best Stud Finders in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update September 12, 2024
If you’re planning to hang a picture, shelf or a mirror on the wall, you want to know where the wall studs are located since driving screws or other mounting fixtures not in the studs will make the nails and screws far less capable of enduring loads. The best tool for detecting studs or metallic items in a wall is a stud finder. It will not only show you the exact location of the wall frame but will also prevent you from hitting electrical wires. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Scanned Objects
Extras
Weight
Power Source
Max Detection Depth
Warranty
 
PROS

You can adjust the brightness of the display and control the volume of the sound signal in order to increase the battery life.

CONS

The appliance might seem rather heavy.

OUR VERDICT

The stud finder from Bosch is a true must-have for both constructors and hobbyists as it shows every item behind the wall 4-3/4'' deep. Having detected a stud or wiring, the tool alerts a user about it via an illuminated ring, audible alert, and a picture on a display.

detailed parameters
Scanned Objects

Wood studs, Metal objects (rebar, studs and steel/copper pipes), Live AC wiring

Extras

Multi-mode detection, Illuminated ring shows detection status, Automatic centre finder, Illuminated graphical display, Three selection modes, Audible detection signal, Ergonomic soft-grip

Weight

~269 g

Power Source

1 x 9V (6LR61) battery

Max Detection Depth

up to 12 cm

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Switching between the available operating modes, you will always be able to find out the depth a stud is located at.

CONS

The display doesn't feature a backlight.

OUR VERDICT

The Zircon e50 is the best option for those who use a stud finder to detect hidden objects on a daily basis but don't want to spend a fortune on some super hi-tech tool. Just a couple of buttons and a stud is found!

detailed parameters
Scanned Objects

Wood stud edges and metal studs

Extras

DeepScan® mode, Easy-to-read LCD display, Updated SpotLite® Pointer, WireWarning® detection, Zircon's patented "over-the-stud", Patented TruCal® technology

Weight

~159 g

Power Source

1 x 9V battery

Max Detection Depth

up to 5 cm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Any user will appreciate a small weight and a compact size of this tool. Thus, it will snugly fit into a pocket of your shirt or trousers.

CONS

Detection depth is insufficient.

OUR VERDICT

Equipped with two rare earth magnets, the tool is the most durable model that copes with the task twice as fast as most of the other stud finders. Perfect for detecting hidden objects behind drywalls and locating vertical studs owing to the onboard level.

detailed parameters
Scanned Objects

Any metal items in a stud (fasteners, screws, nails) 

Extras

Strong rare earth magnets, Compact and lightweight, Clings to a wall via magnetic force when it detects metals, Has three anchor points on each side for easy levelling, Ergonomic shape for easy grabbing

Weight

~68 g

Power Source

No batteries required

Max Detection Depth

1.9 cm

Warranty

No warranty

PROS

When you find these wires (as well as studs, pipes, and more), the LCD screen will always indicate the direction, whilst the beeping sound's intensity will tell you whether you are getting closer to the target. 

CONS

The instruction manual is lacking. 

OUR VERDICT

The Tavool Wall Scanner is more comfortable and more effective than most stud finders. The device's multi-sense tech works wonders locating studs/wood/AC wires in multiple locations across/inside the wall. Also, the price makes more than enough sense to justify the purchase.

detailed parameters
Scanned Objects

Wood studs, Metal objects, AC wires

Extras

4 scanning modes (stud scan, deep scan, metal scan, and AC scan), Multi-sense technology, Large LCD screen, Variable sound warning, automatic calibration

Weight

~204 g

Power Source

1 x 9V (6LR61) battery (not included)

Max Detection Depth

up to 6 cm

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

PROS

The muti-sense tech allows this device to detect multiple impediments at once. The automatic calibration function will let you use the stud finder without initial manual calibration.

CONS

The body feels a touch cheap. 

OUR VERDICT

Tradesmen, different contractors, homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, there are very few people that will not benefit from having the JAXWQ 5-in-1 Multifunction Stud Detector at their disposal. With its accurate, wide, and deep detection range, this is one dependable tool.

detailed parameters
Scanned Objects

Wood studs, metal objects, AC wires

Extras

5 scanning modes (stud scan 12 mm deep, stud scan 25 mm deep, stud scan 38 mm deep, metal scan and AC scan), Muti-sense technology,  LCD screen, Audio Alarm, Auto calibration function, Ergonomic anti-slip handle

Weight

190 g

Power Source

1 x 9V battery (not included)

Max Detection Depth

up to 6 cm

Warranty

3 years

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Bosch GMS120

Watch the Colour Prompts

The first item in our review is a stud finder by Bosch with its exterior being the first aspect examined. The device comes in the housing made of standard dark blue plastic, has an easy-to-read display and six control buttons on its front side. However, the first design element that drew our attention was a circular shape port with four LEDs on its perimeter placed right above the display. The purpose of the LEDs is to inform you about in-wall objects being in proximity to the finder and the port allowing you to put a mark on the wall. Though these LEDs double the device scale in indicating the presence of nearby objects inside the wall, they may come in handy for users suffering from a weak sight as the LEDs enable them to see the direction to a nearby object sought even without their glasses on. The only element on the Bosch GMS120 back is the battery compartment cover. Though the model uses a single 17R8H battery for its operation, it is comparatively bulky and on the heavy side, which is justified by the finder rich functionality.

Review of Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner

An Extremely Sensitive Finder

The Bosch GMS120 can be used for detecting wood and metal beams and columns as well as nonferrous metal elements and electric wiring. You can select a corresponding detection mode by pressing the dedicated button on the device. Please note that each mode has its own maximum scanning depth. For example, the GMS120 can detect ferrous metal at the depth of up to 4-3/4 inches, nonferrous metals – at up to 3-1/8 inches, the wiring - at 2 inches maximum, and the wood elements – at 1-1/2 inches. This Bosch stud finder will notify you about objects detected in two ways: by means of a sound signal and LED flashing. As the device approaches an in-wall object, its built-in LED changes its colour from green to yellow and eventually to red when the object gets close to the device. Thus, in addition to the visual indication of the scanning progress, you are notified about a nearby in-wall object by beeping signals. However, you can turn the beeping notification off any moment by pressing the key.

Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner in the use

Power Efficiency On top of Everything Else

Speaking of additional features, one of the things that seem especially convenient for us is a display of the tool, featuring a backlight that can be turned on and off any moment. We also found out that the Bosch GMS120 automatically turns off after about 5 minutes of inactivity, which also adds to its usability features and prolongs its battery life. For ease of use, the kit includes a hand strap that will allow you to carry the tool in a similar manner you normally wear a bundle of keys, and for safe transportation - the kit contains a carrying case.

When examining the device, we were pleasantly surprised that its case is protected against dust and water splashes in conformance with the IP54 standard. But taking into account that the device can be used outdoors, the availability of such protection would surely not go amiss as it improves the device reliability and prolongs its service life.

Considering all of this, such a detector can be advised to those who often use such kind of devices, in particular - for the duty of service. The Bosch GMS120 will be an excellent solution that will quickly find and maximally show objects hidden in walls.

Detailed review of Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £95.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0046041C8

 

Zircon e50

Won't Damage the Wall Finish

The next entry in our review is a finder by the Zircon company, which was founded back in 1975. The company started as a digital watches manufacturer and decided to apply its experience in high-precision products making to stud finders production. That led to the emergence of the StudSensor™ finders line, one the models from which we examine today. The Zircon е50 model uses electric sensors and a nine-volt battery as a power source. The e50 has a plastic case with two soft cloth inserts at the bottom that ensure its smooth sweeping across the wall and prevent any damage to the wall finish. There is also an ergonomic rubber insert over the molded grip on the lower end of the device case for more convenience. As for the controls, the finder face has only one two-position switch and the power on button on the left.

Review of Zircon e50 Edge Finding Stud Finder with Live AC WireWarning Detection

A Blind Detection of In-Wall Objects

To help you figure out whether the device is that simple to use we will describe our experience with it. In regard to the finder functionality, we can say that the model can pinpoint the location of wooden racks and structures, metal profiles, as well as wiring and metalware. This detector operates in the Stud Scan and Deepscan modes. When used in the first mode, the device detects wood and metal objects at the maximum depth of 3/4 inches, which is actually needed for the search for profiles and racks. Switching to the second mode enables the detection of the same objects at the depth of up to 1-1/2 inches. With that, live wires in walls are detected automatically in both modes at a depth of 2 inches. 

On live wire detection, the Zircon e50 notifies you about that by flashing the corresponding indicator on its display. In addition, any detection of the above objects is accompanied by an audible signal, which is very convenient as you won't need to constantly look at the display and will be able to focus on the layout of the objects in the wall instead. So after selecting the suitable mode and taking the device in your hands, you can start to operate the device in a blind mode right away as the scan initiation button is easy to find and push. Easy and convenient, isn't it?

Zircon e50 Edge Finding Stud Finder with Live AC WireWarning Detection in the use

A Button Placed Where You Need It

Among the noticeable features the device offers, we want to write about the finderability to accurately pinpoint objects edges location. That is, when sweepingthe e50 across the wall from right to left, you can first locate the right edge of an object and after sweeping in reverse direction the device pinpoints the left edge of the object. Having marked the edges, you will easily find the center of the object, where you can drive the screw or drill a hole in. 

For your convenience, the stud finder handle is made with ergonomic finger indents to fit snugly in your palm. Now, a few words about the scan button positioning. As we mentioned earlier, the manufacturer placed the button on the device left, just where you put your thumb when you take the Zircon e50 in your right hand. Thus, after a short use, you will already be able to start objects detection without even looking at the device.

By sweeping the finder across the wall, you can quickly locate in-wall objects. After the device’s detected an object all you need to do is to mark its location on the wall, which is very easy with the special mark on the device top that the manufacturer providently provided for.

In general, the e50 model is a nice choice for those who want to always have a reliable device at their fingertips that can quickly and accurately detect not only wooden and metal parts and structures but also concealed wiring.

Detailed review of Zircon e50 Edge Finding Stud Finder with Live AC WireWarning Detection

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B003IQJULS

 

CH Hanson 03040

So Small That You Can Forget You Put It in Your Pocket

Now we want to bring to your attention a stud finder that uses magnets. The CH Hanson 03040 device has a rather simplistic design with no display or buttons and all it's got is a bubble tube in the centre which also doubles as a levelling gauge. The 03040 finder is very compact and weighs as little as 2.4 ounces. Thanks to this, you can carry it easily in a pocket of your shirt or trousers, unlike many competing products that require proper fixation to the hand wrist or a belt. However, small dimensions aren't the only advantage of the tool. One of the other benefits of the CH Hanson 03040 stud finder is that it features a power independent design. Let's see into its operation a bit closer.

Review of CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder

Easy as ABC

The finder uses two rare-earth magnets to locate hidden objects in walls. Indeed, the CH Hanson stud finder is a rather easy-to-use and straightforward tool with a simple design. Just place the finder on a wall surface and sweep it across the wall in an S-shaped pattern until you feel the device magnet attract to a hidden object, which indicates you’ve found the object location. What's more, you can leave the CH Hanson 03040 hanging on the wall until you ready a marker or a pencil to mark the metal object location. However, you can start drilling or driving self-tapping screws in some place under or above the located object as the beam it is attached to goes vertically across the wall. Moreover, this tool is equipped with a levelling gauge, thus after finding metal objects you can use the tool to draw horizontal lines across the objects detected and mark the positions of horizontal beams. As for the downsides of this model, it offers a comparatively small detection depth, which is 3/4 inches. Though using the finder you will have no problems in finding a structural iron in a drywall.

CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder in the use

Use the Built-In Leveling Gauge

Now let's consider in detail the additional convenience feature of the device, which we mentioned above. To get the most out of the free space available in the detector case, the manufacturer decided to build in yet another, quite useful device - a two-direction bulb level. Using the magnets and the level, you can locate metal objects in the wall and mark the horizontals and verticals on which the objects are positioned right away. Thus, the device will be of a great use when you locate in-wall metal profiles because once you get the finder attracted the wall just follow the level and mark the necessary points. 

By the way, we found out that due to the simplicity of its design, this device is not covered by manufacturer's warranty, so do not be surprised if the seller does not provide you with any as the CH Hanson 03040 has simply nothing to break.

For your convenience, this CH Hanson model is equipped with a plastic loop, which allows you to hang the device on the wall in your workshop. This small feature is very useful as the compact size of the finder makes it easy to get lost among other tools. Thus, hanging it on the wall you will always know where to find it.

Detailed review of CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
Last updated price £19.09
Stock In stock
ASIN B000IKK0OI

 

Tavool 4 in 1

Ergonomic Body

The Tavool Wall Scanner looks much more modern than the stud finders on this list and that's no coincidence. The tech inside this device is top-notch and its features are pretty impressive too. Before we go into these details though, let's review the scanner's build and profile. First, the unit's shape is as ergonomic as they come, so you'll have no issues grabbing, holding, and using this device. The rubber-coated surface makes this scanner easy and comfortable to hold even with wet hands.

The product measures 16.5 x 7.1 x 2.8 centimetres and weighs ~204 grams, so you'll easily be able to wield the device using one hand without experiencing any fatigue. The LCD screen is large and easy to read. It is also backlit, so you'll be able to tell the values/measurements even in low-light conditions. The device runs on one 9V (6LR61) battery. The battery's not supplied with the package but you can find and purchase these anywhere.

As far as the product's flaws are concerned, we couldn't overlook the uninformative manual. Sure, the device is pretty easy to figure out, not thanks to the manual though.

Review of Tavool 4 in 1 Stud Finder Wall Scanner

Minimise False Positives

The device's four scanning modes include the stud scan (0.75 inches/19 millimetres deep), deep scan (1.5 in./38 mm), metal scan (2.36 in./60 mm), and AC wire scan (2 in./50 mm). The deep scan mode will have no issues scanning through two drywall layers. You should use this mode only when there are multiple wallboard/panelling layers though. To minimise false positives and make sure you don't find the objects you weren't looking for further behind the wall, always start with the stud scan mode first though.

This scanner will always detect metals, including different pipes, aluminium, copper, and rebars. The difference is that the metal scan mode will tell you whether what you ran into is a wooden stud, metal stud, or a pipe.

Tavool 4 in 1 Stud Finder Wall Scanner in the use

Multi-Sense Tech

The AC wire mode excels at locating unshielded wires up to 2 inches (50 millimetres) deep. When you find these wires (as well as studs, pipes, and more), the LCD screen will always indicate the direction, whilst the beeping sound's intensity will tell you whether you are getting closer to the target. Last but not least, the device's automatic calibration will save you time and effort.

Long story short, the Tavool Wall Scanner is more comfortable and more effective than most stud finders. The device's multi-sense tech works wonders locating studs/wood/AC wires in multiple locations across/inside the wall. Also, the price makes more than enough sense to justify the purchase.

Detailed review of Tavool 4 in 1 Stud Finder Wall Scanner
Last updated price £18.49
Stock In stock
ASIN B07JLFJN2L

 

JAXWQ 5 in 1

Large LCD Screen

Sophisticated devices stud finders are not. Generally speaking, these are more or less rudimentary tools that are pretty good at detecting wood studs, metal objects, and AC wires but, beyond that, there's seldom much to these things. Somewhat supporting but more contradicting this statement is the subject model from JAXWQ. It might not be the most complex or advanced implement but there's also nothing rudimentary about this device.

To kick things off, the model comes equipped with a large LCD screen. When the object is found, the screen will let you know the direction, whereas the audio alarm's beeping intensity will indicate how close you are to the target. Sweetening the proverbial pot, the screen also includes backlighting so that you can use it in low-light conditions. The backlighting will illuminate the detection mode, centre pointing, the battery status, and more. Owing to the screen' size, the information will be easily readable from a fairly respectable distance.

Done with the display, the model also features a nice little anti-slip handle. Besides preventing this device from slipping, the handle is also a little more ergonomic than they usually are on stud finders, putting less strain on the hand during prolonged use. The bad news is that, unlike the handle part, the model's body feels a little cheap. Maybe the plastic is a touch flimsy, maybe not, but something about it feels off.

Review of JAXWQ 5 in 1 Multifunction Stud Detector with Intelligent Microprocessor Chip

More Scan Modes

Nothing feels off about the stud finder's detection skills though. First, the model incorporates 3 stud scan modes. The Deep Scan mode can scan through 2 drywall layers 1.5 inches (38 millimetres) deep. It is a bit more sensitive than the two modes that are left, so before you go with the Deep Scan, we would recommend starting with the first two modes. Of course, there's also the Metal Scan mode. Aside from the usual deal, the mode can differentiate between ferrous and non-ferrous metals as deep as 2.36 inches (60 millimetres). And, as you can expect, the model is not complete without an AC scan feature. With it, you can detect live unshielded AC wires <2 inches (50 millimetres) deep.

Other than that, this device also comes outfitted with a muti-sense tech, meaning that it can detect multiple 'threats' at once. Rounding its features lineup is the automatic calibration function, making sure that you can use this thing without calibrating it manually first.

Bottom line, professionals, homeowners, or DIY enthusiasts, this stud finder from JAXWQ will benefit them all.

JAXWQ 5 in 1 Multifunction Stud Detector with Intelligent Microprocessor Chip in the use
Last updated price £19.99
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07QR8D4TS

 

What Is a Stud Finder?

Nowadays, you can find a lot of tools for home renovations that simplify this work dramatically. One of them is a stud finder and its main purpose is to detect the framing studs located behind a wall surface. That's why a stud finder is an indispensable tool for those who need to drill holes in dry walls or particleboards and hammer nails or drive screws directly into a vertical metal or timber stud. Of course, if you are a seasoned builder, you can detect hollows in a wall by simply tapping on it. However, we think that finding studs with a specialized device is much easier. What's more, it will help you detect the electrical wires behind the walls and thus, avoid electric shocks and short circuits.

You can choose one of two different types of stud finders for home or professional use: electronic and magnetic. Both of them will help you find studs each in its own way, though. As the name suggests, a magnetic tool uses magnets to locate metal in the walling material (screws and nails) while an electric one measures the wall density in order to detect studs. The finders can be equipped with a display that shows a frame layout or LEDs that light up, indicating studs. The choice of a stud finder depends on your preferences only, so read our review on 5 best models available in the market and make the right choice.

If you are renovating your home now it is high-time to level up your toolbox with new instruments for extra convenience. First of all, consider a laser level to align and balance every item in your house and then get rid of your old measuring tape since laser meters are more convenient and feature the whooping measuring distance up to 300 ft!

What Features to Compare

Type

Finders for detecting hidden objects in walls can be both electronic and mechanical. In case of mechanical finders, their type implies a complete absence of electronic parts and availability of one or more magnets as operating components in their design. As for electronic models, they are equipped with special sensors that detect changes of dielectric permeability or dielectric capacitivity of a wall, as well as electric field intensity changes. The information about objects located in such a way is displayed on the screen, and for the stud finder models with a simpler design, it will be displayed using conventional LEDs. Thus, you can not only determine an object location but also determine its width. Naturally, the operation of these electronic detecting devices requires an electric power, for which an AA or nine-volt battery, as a rule, is used.

Detectable Objects

Depending on the finder type types of objects that you can find with it may also be different. For example, mechanical models can easily detect metal objects in walls, with that these finders are not capable of detecting objects at the depth of more than 3/4 inches, as a rule. At this point, the possibilities of mechanical detectors are exhausted, thus if you need a device with wider possibilities then electronic models are the option.Some models with built-in sensors and scanners can easily detect not only metalware and metal profiles inside walls but also hidden wiring (live and dead) and even gas or water pipes - at the depth of 4 inches or more.

Features and Ease of Use

It is natural that each manufacturer tries to make its product easier to use by implementing certain features. For example, some models can not only show information about the object found on the display but also notify the user with a sound signal. Other models may feature special pointers to the location of a hidden object, which make it easier for you to mark the object location with a pencil or a marker pen. It is also worth noting that most electronic models have several modes for detecting specific types of objects with each type displayed on the screen as a corresponding icon. Such indication greatly simplifies the use of the detector.

If you have to work in low light conditions often we recommend choosing a model with a backlight that will make reading the info on the display much more convenient. When considering an electronic detector model, it is advisable to learn what kind of batteries and how many are used for the device operation. From or experience, replacing a set of four AA batteries is easier and cheaper than replacing the same number of nine-volt batteries. Eventually, do not forget to check the detector weight as you may have to carry it in the pocket of your shirt or pants, in which case every extra ounce will bring discomfort.

FAQ:

Q: What is the difference between various stud finders that are available for purchase? 

A: With various stud finders available today, most of them refer to two main types: magnetic and electric stud finders. While magnetic finders use stationary or moving magnets to detect metal objects, the electric or electronic ones use special sensors that detect changes in the dielectric constant of the wall. Based on this principle, electric stud finders determine changes in dielectric constant when you sweep the sensor over a fastener or a stud. With that, lower dielectric constant readings indicate the presence of a stud or other metal object in the wall. Some finder devices combine both magnetic and electric technologies. However, there are newer technologies implemented in some finders, such as the use of RF radars with 3D imaging technology.

Q: Do magnetic stud finders differ from each other?
A: While all magnetic finders share the same principle of operation, which is the attraction of the magnet or magnets to metal objects in the wall, the implementations differ. There are magnetic finders that have secured magnets that do not move inside the finder and there are models with a magnet suspended in an enclosure inside the device case and is free to move in response to in-wall metal objects.

Q: Is there a difference between the electric finders?
A: The electric stud finders can be divided into three main categories: edge finders, centre finders, instant finders. Being the most basic internal capacitor detectors, edge finders detect edges of a stud or other materials. Center stud finders usually use two sensors for registering separate readings of a dielectric constant of the wall to detect the stud centre. The most cutting-edge devices, instant stud finders, are equipped with multiple sensor plates and special algorithms for processing the sensor readings, which eliminate the need for the user to sweep them across the wall.

Q: What objects can I locate using a stud finder?
A: As we mentioned, the primary function of a stud finder is to detect studs, fasteners and metalware in the wall. Though magnetic stud finders are designed to locate such object, electric finders may offer a wider range of detectable objects. Depending on the type of sensors used, electric finders are capable of locating wood beams and structures as well as live AC wires in the wall.

Q: Do I need to have any special skills to use a stud finder?
A: No, using a stud finder does not require any special skills. However, using magnetic models may require more effort in determining the location of in-wall objects due to its simple principle and comparatively small range of operation.

Sources:

1. Stud Finder Buying Guide, eBay. September 16, 2013.

2. How to Use a Stud Finder to Find Stud Joists Through Carpet, DoItYourself.

3. How to Find a Stud, wikiHow.

4. Stud finder, Wikipedia. February 20, 2017.

5. Bob Formisano Stud Finders: What You Need to Know, The Spruce. May 26, 2016.

6. Steffani Cameron How To: Use a Stud Finder, bob vila.

7. Stud Finder, HowStuffWorks.

8. Lee Wallender Six Ways Find a Stud in a Wall, The Spruce. March 1, 2017.

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Publish Date: 2018-01-09 09:23:57