Two mid-tier multi-frequency all-rounders: Nokta's SMF flagship against Minelab's Multi-IQ workhorse.
Nearly a tie on paper — both are simultaneous multi-frequency, IP68/5 m waterproof, and ~1.2–1.3 kg. The Legend offers selectable single frequencies (4–40 kHz) and FerroCheck iron analysis; the Equinox 700 counters with Minelab's proven Multi-IQ ecosystem and 119 target IDs. Pick the Legend for frequency flexibility, the 700 for the bigger accessory and community ecosystem.
| Spec | Nokta Legend | Minelab Equinox 700 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Multi-Freq | Multi-Freq |
| Frequencies | 4 kHz–40 kHz + MF | Multi-IQ |
| Weight | 1.3 kg | 1.2 kg |
| Waterproof | 5 m | IP68 · 5 m |
| Coil | 12" × 9" DD | 11" DD |
| Best for | Coins | Coins |
| Price tier | Premium | Mid-range |
All specs verified on manufacturer pages, October 2026.
Choose it for: Simultaneous Multi-Frequency versatility and the premium tier.
Check PriceChoose it for: Simultaneous Multi-Frequency (Multi-IQ) with selectable single frequencies strengths at the mid-range tier.
Check PriceNokta Legend: Simultaneous multi-frequency — transmitting several frequencies at once and combining the returns. Near-VLF discrimination with near-PI ground handling: the processor subtracts the salt/ground response while keeping target signal. Costs more and drains batteries faster, but it's the best all-round answer for mixed ground.
Minelab Equinox 700: Simultaneous multi-frequency — transmitting several frequencies at once and combining the returns. Near-VLF discrimination with near-PI ground handling: the processor subtracts the salt/ground response while keeping target signal. Costs more and drains batteries faster, but it's the best all-round answer for mixed ground.
The technology gap matters more than any single spec: it decides which ground each machine can handle. Match the technology to your hunting ground first, then compare specs within that frame.
New to the terminology? Read VLF vs pulse induction vs multi-frequency, explained.
Nearly a tie on paper — both are simultaneous multi-frequency, IP68/5 m waterproof, and ~1.2–1.3 kg. The Legend offers selectable single frequencies (4–40 kHz) and FerroCheck iron analysis; the Equinox 700 counters with Minelab's proven Multi-IQ ecosystem and 119 target IDs. Pick the Legend for frequency flexibility, the 700 for the bigger accessory and community ecosystem.
Technology: Simultaneous Multi-Frequency vs Simultaneous Multi-Frequency (Multi-IQ) with selectable single frequencies. Weights: 1.3 kg (3.0 lbs) including the search coil vs 1.2 kg (2.8 lbs). Price tiers: Premium vs Mid-range.
Specs are checkable; field anecdotes aren't. We compare documented specifications and disclosed features, and we say plainly where real-world conditions (soil, EMI, target size) matter more than the spec sheet.
Spec sheets don't detect — people do. Ground mineralization, EMI, coil control, and target size swamp small spec differences. Use this comparison to shortlist, then handle both machines if you can before buying.