Independently researched Detector Comparison
Minelab Equinox 900 vs Nokta Legend 2
Equinox 900 is the polished two-coil all-terrain package; Legend 2 is the lighter controls-per-dollar challenger. Both offer SMF, 4–40 kHz single choices, Gold modes and 5 m waterproofing, but their audio, ID and coil systems differ.
Bottom line
Equinox 900 for the complete mature package; Legend 2 for tuning value
Choose Equinox 900 for -19–99 IDs, eight recovery levels, EQX11/EQX06 coils and Minelab’s established Multi-IQ workflow. Choose Legend 2 for 99 IDs, Park/Field/Beach/Relic/Gold, lighter 1.2 kg design and extensive filters at lower expected pricing. Neither wins every soil by specification alone.
Decision table
The differences that change the decision
| Factor | Minelab Equinox 900 | Nokta Legend 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency system | Multi-IQ plus six single-frequency choices | next-generation simultaneous multi-frequency |
| Waterproofing | 5 m / 16 ft | 5 m / 16 ft |
| Best fit | advanced mixed-terrain and gold users | advanced users wanting Nokta’s current flagship controls |
| Main advantage | 119 target IDs, Gold Mode and deep audio control | expanded target information and updated platform |
| Primary limitation | higher price and menu depth | newer product with changing bundles and less long-term field history |
Specific recommendations
Choose by terrain and operating style
Minelab Equinox 900
119 target IDs, Gold Mode and deep audio control; best suited to advanced mixed-terrain and gold users.
- Multi-IQ plus six single-frequency choices
- 5 m / 16 ft
- Limitation: higher price and menu depth
Nokta Legend 2
expanded target information and updated platform; best suited to advanced users wanting Nokta’s current flagship controls.
- next-generation simultaneous multi-frequency
- 5 m / 16 ft
- Limitation: newer product with changing bundles and less long-term field history
Decision analysis
What actually changes the purchase
Equinox 900 offers Multi-IQ plus 4, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz and eight profiles across Park, Field, Beach and Gold. Legend 2 offers 4, 10, 15, 20 and 40 kHz plus mode-specific SMF.
Both are IP68 to 5 m and near 1.2–1.27 kg. Equinox includes small and standard coils; Legend 2 uses the new LD28/LD21 family and should not be assumed compatible with original LG coils.
ID scales both reach 99, but Equinox includes negative ferrous positions while Legend 2 uses 01–99 with its own ferrous/audio scheme. Numbers are not interchangeable between brands.
FAQ
Targeted questions answered
Are both simultaneous multi-frequency?
Yes, and both also offer selectable single frequencies.
How waterproof are they?
Both are rated to 5 m (16 ft).
Which coils come with Equinox 900?
EQX11 11-inch and EQX06 6-inch DD coils.
Which modes does Legend 2 include?
Park, Field, Beach, Relic and Gold.
Are original Legend coils compatible with Legend 2?
Do not assume so; Legend 2 uses LD-series coils.
Which is lighter?
Legend 2 is listed around 1.2 kg versus Equinox 900 around 1.27 kg.
Which is easier to recommend without testing fit?
Equinox 900 for its mature package; Legend 2 may offer better value but interface preference matters.
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Buy for the sites you actually hunt
For Minelab Equinox 900 vs Nokta Legend 2, the correct choice is the one whose ground handling and controls solve the conditions you face repeatedly.
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