Best Stud Finders – Types, Feature, Guying Guide

Best Stud Finders/A stud finder (also stud detector or stud sensor) is a handheld device used with wood buildings to locate framing studs located behind the final walling surface, usually drywall. While there are many different stud finders available, most fall into two main categories: magnetic stud detectors and electric stud finders. There are also some devices employing radar. A stud finder is a very useful instrument that helps in locating studs behind the surface of the wall. Not just studs, it can detect anything that is metallic in nature and its powerful magnets can pierce through any surface to make the detection. They are a must-have for tradespeople and even for DIY works. Some of the stud finders are able to locate AC live wire and can detect them through wood and even plastic. The following is the list of top 10 best stud finders in 2019 you must consider buying for accurate and easy detection through various surfaces.

List Of The Best Stud Finders In 2020

Multi-Function Stud Finder

Multi-Function Stud Finder

 

This stud finder is enabled with multi-mode detection. It can detect metals of up to 38mm. It can also detect AC live wire and has got an LCD display with a multi-sensor detector. The signal is indicated by sound and is quickly able to locate edges. It is quick to detect metal studs, joists, rebars, pipes, and live AC wire. Not just stud mode, this can also be used in metal mode and AC mode. The product comes up with a replacement warranty of twelve months.

Reasons To Buy This
  • Multiple modes of detection possible.
  • LCD display for live viewing.
  • Sound signal indicator for precise detection.

Multi-Scanner Wall Stud Finder

Multi-Scanner Wall Stud Finder

This product has an LCD Backlit Display. It is very quick to locate edges and can also locate several metals, including live AC wire. It also has audible indication with heavy detection strength. Moreover, it can detect live wire of up to 76mm, pipe of up to 3 inches, and metal studs of up to 38 mm. The product has 12 months warranty and a lifetime support guarantee. While using the product, it should always be kept flat first. Additionally, it can be used as metal and AC stud.

Reasons To Buy This
  • This stud finder has multiple detection options for metal studs, pipes, and live wire.
  • The LCD display and audible sound signal indicator are highly useful.
  • It can also detect metal studs in the wood.

Multi Scanning Wall Sensor Stud Finder

Multi Scanning Wall Sensor Stud Finder

This product can also be used as a wood stud. It is easy to use and has got only to buttons. It selects and then probes. Also, it can detect live wire of up to 2 inches. The power gets automatically turned off after 60 seconds. It is a lightweight product and has a single key operate handle. The LCD monitor is very accurate and quickly detects any metal. The package also includes a battery and has a warranty of 12 months.

Reasons To Buy This
  • There are three different mode of detection which makes it versatile.
  • It is highly efficient in detection and has unique detection technology.
  • It is very easy to use and all the accessories are included in the package.
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Multifunctional Wall Scanning Device

Multifunctional Wall Scanning Device

This product comes up with a dimension of 10 x 5 x 0.5 inches. Although it requires a battery to operate, the package does not include it. This will fit perfectly in the toolbox and also has got the option of AC wire scanning. The battery required by the device is 9V. It is reliable and gives accurate results. It is long-lasting and has an LCD display. There are two buttons with an On/Off button and an extra button. It is multifunctional and is best fit for wall scanning.

Reasons To Buy This
  • You can scan AC live wire and LCD screen helps in viewing the detection instantly.
  • The design is ergonomic and the product is highly durable.
  • It is very efficient and can do high precision detection.

Magnetic Stud Finder Sensor

 

Magnetic Stud Finder Sensor

This stud finder has accurate detector technology. It has the ability to locate wood studs and metal studs. It has a multi-detection mode and comes with a signal strength indicator. When in action, it quickly tells about the discovered item and the LED gets turned on. It is also effortless to operate and can scan horizontally. It is designed in a specific way, which is very compact to use. Last but not least, it is also very handy to carry and has a comfortable grip.

Reasons To Buy This
  • It has accurate detection technology for fining large to small studs easily.
  • The signal strength indicator helps in live detection with LCD screen and audible sound signal.
  • There are multiple modes of detection available which makes it usable in various applications.

Zircon StudSensor 70 Center Finding Stud Finder

Zircon StudSensor 70 Center Finding Stud Finder

This electronic stud sensor is able to detect and alerts when finding metal studs, wood studs, and live AC wires. It is powered by Auto Correcting Technology which corrects errors and starts with a stud. This product has LED lights which indicate calibration. There is also a sound signaling system which indicates the location of the stud center. Further, there’s also an erasable wall marker which helps to mark targets. This has many LED lights which can be used in DeepScan and StudScan modes.

Reasons To Buy This
  • Can detect studs from the edges as well as from the center of woods.
  • Is capable of detecting ever the smaller studs easily.
  • Comes with an autocorrect technology to minimize user error.

Studpop Magnetic Stud Finder

Studpop Magnetic Stud Finder

This is one of the unique stud finders available today. It is made in the United States and does not require any batteries to operate. It can be used on tile, sheetrock, lath, and plaster. The device comes up with a popper which tells when a metal is discovered. It is one of the quickest ways to find studs without any problem. It is very handy and weighs only 0.8 ounces. The stud finder can easily fit in your pocket and the dimensions are 8 x 6 x 2 inches.

Reasons To Buy This
  • This stud finder works on plastic as well as tile.
  • There are various color options available.
  • Proper indication is given instantly upon detection of the stud.
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ProSensor 710 Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Precision Stud Finder

ProSensor 710 Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Precision Stud Finder

This stud finder has multi-sense technology which can be used in multiple locations. It has bright LED lights which track the hidden objects with its location. It makes you easy to visualize the location and is very easy to use. The stud finder can detect multiple studs and there’s also an option of deep scanning. The best thing about this stud finder is that, apart from locating the stud, it also determines the size of the stud. The device weighs only 9 ounces.

Reasons To Buy This
  • It has an advanced multi-sense technology for sensing multiple locations.
  • The scanning is quite deep and the position detection is accurate.
  • There are LED lights available that will make the studs visible.

Zircon StudSensor E50-FFP Edge Finding Stud Finder

Zircon StudSensor e50-FFP Edge Finding Stud Finder

 

Like any other stud finder, this device is able to detect metal, wood and live AC wire. It indicates the presence of any electric wires when used in DeepScan mode. It operates with a 9V battery and gives accurate results. This can be used comfortably as it is designed with an ergonomic grip. It can locate studs up to 38 mm deep. The LCD display is quick to indicate the presence of any stud. This tool can be used comfortably from any angle.

Reasons To Buy This
  • It can detect studs from the edges accurately.
  • The location detection is efficient and you can detect AC live wire.
  • The scanning is deep and unshielded metal wire can also be detected.

CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder

CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder

This is a compact and small stud finder which can be used very easily. It is pocket-friendly and requires no batteries to function. You can use it without your hands as it has powerful magnets to detect any stud. When holding, the device gives a gentle touch and includes a soft grip. Weighing at a remarkable 2.4 ounces, this stud finder is made up of the magnet. The dimension is 1.2 x 0.8 x 3 inches and is designed ergonomically. This product is made in China. This product is examined by experts and rated to be the best stud finder in the market.

Reasons To Buy This
  • You can use it hands-free thanks to its powerful magnets.
  • There is no requirement of battery and the grip is very comfortable.
  • It is very compact and hence, easy to carry in the pocket.
  • The product features under Amazon’s Choice for its quality.

Detection is achieved using two different methods

1. Magnetic

  • Uses powerful magnets to pinpoint the location of screws or nails in a stud. Therefore it doesn’t detect the stud itself but rather the hardware that attaches the wall material to the stud.

2. Electronic

  • Electronic stud finders rely on sensors that detect changes in the dielectric constant (the relative permittivity) of the wall. This changes when the sensor is over a stud. The lower reading indicates the presence of a stud in the wall and this data is displayed on an LCD screen.

How To Use A Stud Finder

The exact operation will vary by manufacturer, but here is the general procedure:

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Step 1:
Power on the device and choose the scanning mode.

Step 2:
Place the device flat on the wall. Then press and hold the button while keeping the unit still until calibration is complete (1 – 2 seconds). When calibration is complete, the unit will sound a short beep and the display bars will be cleared.

Step 3:
While holding on the button, move it along the desired surface to scan.

Step 4 :
When the stud finder detects an object, it will beep continually and will display on the LCD screen (if available).

How To Choose?

Buying a stud finder may seem to be a hectic process as different stud finders have different features like some are electric while others are magnetic. The followings are some of the parameters you have to keep in mind to make the best purchase.

  • Frequency – If you happen to use your stud finder regularly and you need it for professional purposes, you should buy a top-quality stud finder so that it can have better detection technology and multiple modes. If you are buying it for the DIY purpose, you can buy a moderate-quality stud finder that does the job good enough.
  • Surface Detection – Depending on what surface you will need to inspect, you need to choose your stud finder. For example, a traditional stud finder can spot studs through walls but some of the advanced ones can detect studs through woods and plastic.
  • The depth of Detection – The depth of the detection matters a lot and even though you will not have an exact idea how deep the stud can be, you would at least have some idea depending on the thickness of the wall or any other surface. You should check the specification to match this requirement.
  • Apart from these – you should ensure that the detection is accurately shown on an LCD screen that most of the stud finders come with. The audible signal should also be strong and instantaneous.

Stud-Finding Tips

  • Don’t touch the wall with either hand while you’re using a stud finder—this can alter its readings.
  •  Some tools need to calibrate before scanning, so start away from switches, outlets, or light fixtures.
  • Apply some painter’s tape over the area you want to scan. It’ll give you a surface on which to mark your findings without having to write on the wall.
  •  When you detect studs, objects, or live wires, mark them.
  •  And where you detect a stud specifically, scan above and below that point to make sure it continues to the floor or ceiling. Other readings, not at regular intervals, could be the wiring, plumbing, or ductwork.
  •  Freshly painted walls may be difficult to scan for up to two to three weeks, due to the moisture in the paint.

Conclusion

Go ahead and buy any of these top 10 best stud finders listed above but you should always keep the parameters in mind to buy a stud finder that can fulfill all your requirements perfectly. Depending on your budget and your preference, you can either buy an electric or a magnetic stud finder.

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