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The 5 Best Stud Finders of 2024

We tested top stud finders from Bosch, Zircon, Black+Decker, and more to determine the best products
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Best Stud Finder Review (We put a selection of stud finders and wall scanners to head-to-head tests to find the best for your next project.)
We put a selection of stud finders and wall scanners to head-to-head tests to find the best for your next project.
Credit: Ethan Newman
By Hale Milano & Ethan Newman  ⋅  May 15, 2024

The Best Stud Finders for 2024


Looking for studs in all the wrong places? After investigating over 28 of the best stud finders on the market, we compared the top 10 models side-by-side. We tested for accuracy, ease of use, and features, both in isolated tests as well as while working on home projects to get a feel of their real-world performance. Read on to see our detailed results and find what works best for you, whether you're hanging a mirror or remodeling your entire kitchen.

We know home projects can be fun, but they can also be stressful — and after the fifth trip to the hardware store, the last thing you want to worry about is comparing all the competing products on the market. Our tool reviews can help suss out the differences between the best drills, cordless circular saws, impact drivers, and more. If your projects span both inside and outside the house, we've also tested a wide variety of outdoor and lawn care tools like the best pressure washers, best leaf blowers, and the best string trimmers to find which offer the top performances.

Editor's Note: In an update on May 15, 2024, we've added details about our testing methods and a short buying guide to answer frequently asked questions. We also removed two discontinued models from our lineup.

Top 10 Stud Finders - Test Results

Displaying 1 - 10 (scroll right)
 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Stud Finder
Top Pick Award
Most Intuitive Stud Finder
Top Pick Award
Best Option With a Laser Level
Best Buy Award
Best Bang for Your Buck
   Top Pick Award
Best Magnetic Stud Finder
  
Price $100 List
$89.00 at Amazon
$60 List
$56.00 at Amazon
$98 List
$56.84 at Amazon
$53 List
$48.99 at Amazon
$55 List$31 List$12.00 List
$5.99 at Amazon
$17.00 List
$10.49 at Amazon
$13.00 List
$9.97 at Amazon
$36 List
Overall Score Sort Icon
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Pros Finds stud centers within 1/16th inch, detects metal objects accurately, comprehensive tool yet easy to useIncredibly intuitive and simple design, display shows the entire stud, includes a level and flat edge ruler for markingLaser level is convenient and works with textured drywall, pinpoint bullseye spot ensures accurate markIlluminated marking arrow, deep marking notch, fast and accurate center markingUnique display shows entire stud, extremely intuitiveEasy to see marking spot with illuminated arrow, AC indicator is very sensitiveNice V-shaped marking guide, simple and intuitiveMagnets are very remarkably reliable, will stay on wall if let goSimple, durable, no false detectionCompact size, easily switch between all scan modes
Cons Requires three passes for accurate scanning, bulkyNo metal or AC modesBulky, sometimes takes a few passes to find the edgeLarge, inconsistent edge markingLacks many features, bulky & not ergonomicNo center detection, can't differentiate between wood and metalOnly scans 3/4" deep, no additional featuresCan only sense metal objects, level is the only featureNo extra features, only detects magnetic metalsNot the most accurate, no marking notch
Bottom Line This favored model is easy to use, accurate, and detects multiple types of hidden materialsA twist on other models that yields an easy and accurate experience that left our testers reaching for this on their own home projectsThe laser level on this stud detector makes it one convenient toolFor fast, accurate, no-fuss stud finding look no furtherA handy option if you like the ability to view the entire stud at onceNicely featured and easy to use, we think this more basic stud finder is a great dealAn inexpensive option that will get the job done, but doesn't come with any standard featuresA simple and reliable tool for those who like the old school methodSimple and straightforward, it excels at one thing - finding drywall screwsA compact and feature-packed model that falls short of other options
Rating Categories Bosch GMS120 Digita... Franklin Sensors Pr... Black + Decker Bull... Zircon MultiScanner... Franklin Sensors Pr... Zircon StudSensor A100 Craftsman StudSensor C.H. Hanson 03040 M... The StudBuddy Magnetic Vivreal 4 in 1 Stud...
Accuracy (40%)
9.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
7.0
6.0
6.0
5.0
Ease of Use (40%)
8.0
10.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
7.0
5.0
Features (20%)
9.0
5.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
5.0
3.0
3.0
1
7.0
Specs Bosch GMS120 Digita... Franklin Sensors Pr... Black + Decker Bull... Zircon MultiScanner... Franklin Sensors Pr... Zircon StudSensor A100 Craftsman StudSensor C.H. Hanson 03040 M... The StudBuddy Magnetic Vivreal 4 in 1 Stud...
Scanning Depth (wood) 1.5" 1.7" 0.8" 1.5" 1.5" 1.5" 0.8" 1.0" 1.0" 1.5"
What materials can it identify? Wood, steel/aluminum/copper, wire Wood Wood, metal Wood, metal, wire Wood Wood, AC Wood, metal Steel (screws) Steel (screws) Wood, metal, wire
Power source 9V battery 2 AA batteries 2 AA batteries 9V battery 2 AA batteries 9V battery 9V battery N/A N/A 9V battery
Edge Sensor No Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No Yes
Marking Guide Yes No Yes Yes No Yes Yes No No Yes
Dimensions W: 5.9"
H: 9.9"
D: 2.0"
W: 7.0"
H: 3.0"
D: 2.0"
W: 8.0"
H: 10"
D: 2.0"
W: 3.3"
H: 7.8"
D: 2.8"
W: 3.5"
H: 7.5"
D: 2.0"
W: 2.9"
H: 6.8"
D: 1.7"
W: 2.5"
H: 6.0"
W: 1.3"
H: 3.0"
D: 0.8"
W: 1.0"
H: 5.8"
D: 1.3"
W: 2.5"
H: 6.5"
D: 1.3"


Best Overall Stud Finder


Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner


86
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Accuracy 9.0
  • Ease of Use 8.0
  • Features 9.0
REASONS TO BUY
Finds stud edges within 1/16 of an inch
Detects metal objects accurately
Comprehensive tool yet easy to use
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky
Requires three passes for accurate scanning
SPECIFICATIONS
What materials can it identify? Wood, steel/aluminum/copper, wire
Scanning Depth (wood) 1.5"
Power source 9V battery
Edge Sensor No
Marking Guide Yes
The Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner is a powerhouse of a wall scanner. It has three modes; wood, metal, and electrical power, and is quite accurate with all three. In addition to the three scan modes, the Bosch has a center finder for studs, a magnetic sensor to show screws and other metal, and a ring that changes color depending on how close you are to the material you're seeking. The light-up ring changes from green (no stud sensed), to yellow (close), to red (directly on top of a stud). The ring is also hollow, allowing accurate marks right in the center of the sensor. For bonus points, the ring is wide enough to accept a permanent marker if that's your writing implement of choice. We appreciated not having to hold any buttons down to use it, which was more comfortable in awkward positions, like looking for ceiling joists. We also love the light-up screen, which made it easy to use in crawl spaces or other dimly lit areas.

On the downside, we wish the stud finder was a little smaller; as it is, it's rather bulky and takes up most of the pocket on a tool belt. Its accuracy is admirable, but it takes three passes of an object to detect its location accurately. Without the multiple passes, it can be off enough to miss the stud completely. Despite its bulk and learning curve, the Bosch GMS120 is accurate, easy to read, and multi-purpose. For these reasons, it's our favorite all-around model we tested. If you'd prefer a quicker process, the Franklin Sensors ProSensor T13 is incredibly easy and intuitive, making it a bit quicker than the Bosch.

stud finder - the bosch gsm120 is our favorite overall wall sensor. it's reliable...
The Bosch GSM120 is our favorite overall wall sensor. It's reliable, powerful, and has several nice features.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Best Bang for Your Buck


Zircon MultiScanner A200


78
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Accuracy 8.0
  • Ease of Use 8.0
  • Features 7.0
REASONS TO BUY
Illuminated marking arrow and deep notch
Fast and accurate center marking
Wood, deep-scan, metal, & AC modes
REASONS TO AVOID
Large
Can't differentiate between wood and metal
SPECIFICATIONS
What materials can it identify? Wood, metal, wire
Scanning Depth (wood) 1.5"
Power source 9V battery
Edge Sensor Yes
Marking Guide Yes
The Zircon MultiScanner A200 is an excellent tool that is easy to use, accurate, and won't break the bank. The A200 has modes to detect wood, metal, and live wires, as well as a deep scan mode for penetrating thick walls. Its center marking was dead center in our tests, and though the edge sensing was off by a little, it erred on the inside so you'll still hit your stud. Thanks to its large illuminated screen, marking notch, and illuminated arrow that's projected onto the wall, using the Zircon in the field was easy even in dark or awkward positions.

We found the metal and AC modes worked well enough, but the stud finder tended to pick up on both from several inches away. If you need to locate metal accurately, you can recalibrate the device overtop of metal objects to decrease sensitivity and more accurately mark metal objects. The ergonomic shape is comfortable to hold with your right hand, but it's less than ideal for your left. And yet, it's still easy to use and mark accurately either way. Despite its flaws, the Zircon A200 is well suited for most home projects while keeping costs (and learning curves) down.

stud finder - the center-mark indicator notifies you when it is over the stud...
The center-mark indicator notifies you when it is over the stud center in several ways: an audible tone, projected arrow on the marking spot, text indicator on the screen, and slanted bars denoting the strength of the reading.
Credit: Hale Milano

Most Intuitive Stud Finder


Franklin Sensors ProSensor T13


82
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Accuracy 8.0
  • Ease of Use 10.0
  • Features 5.0
REASONS TO BUY
Unique display shows the entire stud
Extremely intuitive
Simple and accurate readings
REASONS TO AVOID
No metal or AC modes
SPECIFICATIONS
What materials can it identify? Wood
Scanning Depth (wood) 1.7"
Power source 2 AA batteries
Edge Sensor Yes
Marking Guide No
The Franklin Sensors ProSensor T13 proved to be reliable and accurate in our tests, as well as one of the easiest to use. Instead of a screen that lights up when over a stud or stud edge, the ProSensor has a bar of lights that shine when directly over a stud or object. To avoid near misses, the lights always err on the inside of a stud. We loved that it shows the entire stud as well as the center marking in a single view, which could help when there are nonstandard-sized studs behind the sheetrock. It also has a level, a ruler, and a straightedge to make accurate marks on the wall. Of all the stud finders that we tested, this was the one we went back to after testing was over to complete our home projects.

As much as we like the display and straightedge, its design requires you to pinch the device while holding the power button. Unlike most other products in this review, the ProSensor T13 is oriented horizontally; some testers found it awkward to hold at odd angles, such as on a ladder when locating ceiling joists. It also lacks AC power and metal identification, though it does detect those objects. Despite those drawbacks, we believe the ease of use and accuracy of the Franklin T13 makes it an excellent choice. For a more ergonomic choice while suspended or for use on ceilings, we like the Craftsman StudSensor for its easy-to-use characteristics.

stud finder - the t13's has lights that indicate an object is positioned directly...
The T13's has lights that indicate an object is positioned directly behind them, as well as a flat edge and level for easy marking.
Credit: Hale Milano

Best Option With a Laser Level


Black + Decker BullsEye Auto Leveling Laser


80
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Accuracy 8.0
  • Ease of Use 8.0
  • Features 8.0
REASONS TO BUY
Laser level is convenient and works with textured drywall
Pinpoint bullseye spot ensures accurate marks
REASONS TO AVOID
Bulky
Sometimes takes a few passes to find the edge
SPECIFICATIONS
What materials can it identify? Wood, metal
Scanning Depth (wood) 0.8"
Power source 2 AA batteries
Edge Sensor Yes
Marking Guide Yes
The Black+Decker Bullseye is a simple tool, but it does have a few great features that help with many projects that require a stud finder. First, the name comes from the large circle on top where there's a hole just big enough for a pencil tip to mark the wall, ensuring accurate marks every time. There's also a live wire detection feature in the form of a small red light. Where it really shines, though, is the laser level. We found this feature incredibly helpful when hanging multiple picture frames, allowing us to line up nails and hangers with precision across a room. The laser is broad enough to work on textured sheetrock as well, which not every laser level is.

The Black+Decker is rather bulky, so using it can be a little cumbersome. Additionally, it doesn't have a sensitive sensor, forcing us to drag it across the wall slower than other contenders we tested. But it was our favorite for hanging a bunch of picture frames, and we recommend it to those looking for a stud finder and a level in one handy tool. If you'd prefer a more compact option, the Zircon StudSensor A100 is easy to stash in your tool belt while still offering quick detection.

stud finder - we like that the laser level on the black+decker is broad enough to...
We like that the laser level on the Black+Decker is broad enough to work on textured sheetrock, an issue our testers have run into with other laser levels.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Best Magnetic Stud Finder


C.H. Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder


58
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Accuracy 6.0
  • Ease of Use 7.0
  • Features 3.0
REASONS TO BUY
Magnets are remarkably reliable
Will stay on the wall if let go
REASONS TO AVOID
Can only sense screws, nails, or steel studs
Level is the only feature
SPECIFICATIONS
What materials can it identify? Steel (screws)
Scanning Depth (wood) 1.0"
Power source N/A
Edge Sensor No
Marking Guide No
Despite the various technological advancements of density scanning that many wall scanners use, there is nothing more reliable than a magnet finding a screw holding the sheetrock to the stud. That's why the C.H. Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder is great. Magnets don't get false readings, nor do they have a hard time differentiating between different materials; either it is steel or it isn't. Magnets work great with sheetrock and even better with plaster and lath walls, as many older buildings have. The C.H. Hanson model also comes with a level, which allows you to ensure its point on the bottom is facing plumb straight down.

What the C.H. Hanson offers in reliability, it lacks in additional capabilities. It will only find the screws in the studs and not the stud itself, so we were never sure if we were drilling into the center of the stud or not. Sheetrock screws are usually 12-16 inches apart, so it can take a little bit of noodling around to find two screws to ensure the line of a stud. Still, for ease of use and no false positives, the C.H. Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder is pretty handy. For a more feature rich stud finder, we prefer the Black + Decker BullsEye Auto Leveling Laser.

stud finder - the c.h. hanson magnetic is a small pair of magnets with a level...
The C.H. Hanson Magnetic is a small pair of magnets with a level. It's simple and reliable, as long as there is some steel in the stud or screws to find.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
86
Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner
Best Overall Stud Finder
$100
Editors' Choice Award
82
Franklin Sensors ProSensor T13
Most Intuitive Stud Finder
$60
Top Pick Award
80
Black + Decker BullsEye Auto Leveling Laser
Best Option With a Laser Level
$98
Top Pick Award
78
Zircon MultiScanner A200
Best Bang for Your Buck
$53
Best Buy Award
74
Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710+
$55
66
Zircon StudSensor A100
$31
62
Craftsman StudSensor
$12
58
C.H. Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
Best Magnetic Stud Finder
$17
Top Pick Award
54
The StudBuddy Magnetic
$13
54
Vivreal 4 in 1 Stud Finder
$36

stud finder - testing update with new products like the prosensor t13, vivreal...
Testing update with new products like the ProSensor T13, Vivreal, and A200.
Credit: Hale Milano

How We Test Stud Finders


We've been searching for the best stud finders on the market since 2021 so that when you need to find a stud or pipe behind a wall, it only takes you a second. In this review, we devised and conducted over 10 individual tests on each product to evaluate and rate each tool's performance.

First, we subjected each device to a rigorous and objectively measurable series of assessments using a small test wall of sheetrock and studs to measure how accurate and sensitive each stud finder is, as well as their metal, wire, and pipe-sensing abilities. Then, we used them in real-world situations to find anything that might not occur in a “lab setting”. We used these products to install over 50 picture frames at home and hang bike racks in the garage to test consistency and evaluate the reliability of each. We awarded points based on the degree of accuracy across our various tests, as well as whether or not each model possessed certain features. As always, GearLab purchased these products at the retail price since we do not accept any free models from manufacturers.

Our testing of stud finders is divided across three different metrics:
  • Accuracy (40% of overall score weighting)
  • Ease of Use (40% weighting)
  • Features (20% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab


Our stud finder test team is comprised of veteran testers and reviewers Ethan Newman and Hale Milano. Combined, they have over two decades of construction and DIY experience in both professional and home projects. Whether it is building backcountry outhouses in Los Glaciares Parque Nacional, Argentina, or at-home climbing walls in their garage, these testers know the importance of getting it right the first time when it comes to boring holes into a wall.

While testing these tools we hung over 50 frames on in our lead...
While testing these tools we hung over 50 frames on in our lead tester's new house.
In addition to more calibration than other sensors, the Walabot...
In addition to more calibration than other sensors, the Walabot required registration and setup, which seemed unnecessary for a wall scanner.

How to Choose A Stud Finder


We have provided four key buying considerations, including budget, material type, and features, to help you choose the best stud finder for your personal needs.

What Materials Do You Need to Find?


Wether starting a DIY makeover or just looking to hang a few picture frames, finding the right stud finder for the material types you might run into is important. If all you need is to hang a few items to wood studs, then simpler, more cost-effective options exist that excel at finding wood-specific studs. Others may run into metal and electric components and will want to make sure their stud finder is capable of accurately detecting different material types.

stud finder - stud finders come in a variety of sizes and intended applications.
Stud finders come in a variety of sizes and intended applications.
Credit: Ethan Newman

What Features to Look For?


Different stud finders come with features that can become especially useful for specific scenarios and wall types. If you are adamant about finding the middle of your stud, look for options with an auto center finder. Others may prefer to utilize stud finders with a built-in level and ruler to make precise measurements quicker and more efficient. Take a little bit of time to assess what features will be most useful for your projects to help slim down your desired options.

Do You Need to Scan Thick Walls?


If you have a newer home or know you have thicker walls, making sure you find a stud finder with adequate depth to find studs should be considered. While many options have a scan depth deep enough for most walls, some stud finders also have deep scan modes to increase the distance they can accurately scan. If you're concerned about scan depth, look for options with increased range and stud finders with built-in modes to increase depth range.

What About Ergonomics?


The ergonomics of your stud finder can make or break an accurate finding while positioned awkwardly on your wall. For scenarios such as finding ceiling joists or being suspended on a ladder, using a stud finder that's easy to hold and scan will make life a lot easier.

stud finder - stud finders that are easy to use at different angles and positions...
Stud finders that are easy to use at different angles and positions make finding accurate results quicker and safer.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Analysis and Test Results


After completing our testing and comparing notes and data, we used these results to score each product across predetermined metrics covering different aspects of the tools. The following is a breakdown of how the various models measured up in Value, Accuracy, Ease of Use, and Features.


What's the Best Value?


Topping the scores in both price and performance was the Bosch GMS120; with near-perfect scores in all our rating metrics, it's no surprise that with this pricey tool you'll have to pay for what you get. The Black+Decker BullsEye is just short of the Bosch in both price and performance; though the laser level is a fantastic feature, it commands a high price point for that option. At roughly half the price—and still in the same performance zone—the Franklin T13, 710+, and Zircon A200 are all excellent options that won't break the bank.

Accuracy


Every inaccurate hole we drill into a wall is a hole that has to be covered up and repainted, so accurate sensing is paramount in a decent stud finder. To evaluate accuracy, we looked at edge detection, center detection, and depth detection (in case you have thicker walls).

We tested accuracy by building a small simulated test wall with a 2-foot by 2-foot piece of 1/2-inch sheetrock, with 2x4 lumber as studs. We mounted the studs behind the sheetrock and marked the edges and center on the face so we could precisely test our tools. We also simulated steel studs with 1/8 inch steel and a copper pipe section to test for nonferrous metal sensing. AC power sensing was field-tested around light switches and outlets.


For overall accuracy, the Bosch GMS120, Black+Decker Line Laser, Zircon A200, and Franklin T13 topped our scoring charts.

stud finder - the t13 had impressive accuracy given it's simple design. three...
The T13 had impressive accuracy given it's simple design. Three indicators light up when directly over a stud, with the outer lights erring on the inside of stud edges.
Credit: Hale Milano

When we look at the breakdown across the different accuracy tests, what the GMS120 lacked in edge detection, it more than made up for in center detection — its automatic center finder was spot on in our tests. The Black+Decker detected both edges and stud centers within 1/16th of an inch. The Franklin T13 was slightly less accurate, sensing stud edges and centers within 1/8th of an inch, although it detects both in a single view and errs on the inside of the edge to guarantee you'll hit your mark. The Zircon A200 was more accurate than its sister model, finding stud centers within 1/8th inch after a single scan, but lacked the ability to consistently detect stud edges to the same degree.

stud finder - the bosch proved to be one of the most accurate devices for...
The Bosch proved to be one of the most accurate devices for detecting studs and other materials behind our sheetrock test wall.
Credit: Ethan Newman

The StudBuddy and C.H. Hanson were accurate, but in a different way. Because they are just strong magnets, they are attracted to the steel drywall screws that hold the sheetrock to the studs. They also find steel pipes and studs, but those tend to be somewhat less common in most walls. They will not, however, detect copper or aluminum pipes and studs.

stud finder - the studbuddy and c.h. hanson products give you a general gist of...
The StudBuddy and C.H. Hanson products give you a general gist of where studs are. We used them to line up the studs to hang this cast aluminum triptych and to know whether we could use screws or needed drywall anchors to hold something this heavy.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Ease of Use


Often, the place that is easiest to drill or nail and the ideal spot to drill are not the same. Whether on the ceiling, high on a ladder, or over inconvenient obstacles, having a device that is easy to use no matter the situation is very helpful. Ideally, we could also take a device and hand it to any DIY accomplice, and they could understand its functions without explanation. Our ease of use metric included tests on whether the tool could be easily used one-handed, the level of difficulty for marking on the wall and ceiling, how easy it was to understand how to use the tool, and the quality of instructions included with the device. Points were deducted if the unit needed a power button to remain pressed on, if it lacked a physical marking guide or was not easily ambidextrous, if it required multiple scans or calibration, and if the instruction guide was successful in helping us achieve our desired results.


Our testers found that the easiest to use was the Franklin Sensors ProSensor T13. It was intuitive, user-friendly, and didn't require any calibration or multiple scans to accurately pick up studs. Moreso, its unique display left no question about where a stud was or was not. After this pack leader, there were five devices all tied for our second-place score, but with unique strengths and weaknesses based on their design. The Bosch GMS120 had a steep learning curve, and we had to read the instructions several times in order to get accurate results, but we liked that the device required no calibration. We really liked that we didn't have to hold down the button to keep sensing, and the functions were easy to understand. The marking guide was also nice and fit every kind of writing implement we used.

The Zircon A200, on the other hand, did not have nearly as steep of a learning curve, despite the fact that it packed in all the same features as the high-end models and had instructions on how to refine our scans for more accurate results as needed. The A200's drawbacks were its size and power button placement; it was awkward when using your left hand and needed to be held down while scanning. The A200 did require calibration, though only needed one pass for accurate scans. We loved the projected arrow opposite of the marking guide, which allowed for precise marks, especially in cramped or dark areas. Also in the top five for ease of use were other models of the Franklin and the Zircon, the Pro 710+ and A100, respectively.

The Studbuddy and the C.H. Hanson magnetic stud finders were easy to use, mainly because they lacked any buttons or electronics. All the instructions say to do is slide the device around the wall in an “S” pattern until we felt the pull of the magnetism. Sure enough, it worked.

stud finder - the magnetic models were nice because they stayed on the wall once...
The magnetic models were nice because they stayed on the wall once we found a stud.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Features


While a wall scanner primarily finds studs, having a tool that can detect other things behind drywall can be quite handy and prevent some seriously unfortunate mishaps. Some of the models we tested came with analog features like levels and straight edges, as well as more advanced tools like AC power sensing, magnetic sensors to detect steel studs and screws, and pipe detection abilities. The more and better features the product had, the higher it scored.


We really liked the features on the Bosch wall scanner, and we found them to be intuitive and accurate. Not only would it detect what it was scanning for when directly over the material, but a light-up ring indicated that it was close to something via a green-yellow-red system that was easy to understand.

The Bosch wis easy to use and could easily detect different...
The Bosch wis easy to use and could easily detect different materials. You can see the little crossed out magnet on the screen, showing that it detects metal (copper piping), but not steel or iron.
The Bosch light around the marking ring flashes red when it's over a...
The Bosch light around the marking ring flashes red when it's over a live wire in AC power sensing mode.

Although many of the models come with a level on them, we found the laser level of the Black+Decker Bullseye to be really handy in certain situations. We used it to line up picture frames across a broad wall, making it much shorter work than using a spirit level or tape measure.

stud finder - the eponymous bullseye on the black + decker model made it nice and...
The eponymous Bullseye on the Black + Decker model made it nice and easy to mark exactly where it sensed something behind the sheetrock.
Credit: Ethan Newman

The level on both of the Franklin models was also useful paired with its straight edges and measurement markings. The T13 even has a pencil caddy that's very ergonomic, in case you can't reach your other writing tool for a quick mark.

stud finder - we hope this review helps you locate studs to renovate and decorate...
We hope this review helps you locate studs to renovate and decorate your home to your unique vision.
Credit: Ethan Newman

Conclusion


Whether you're redoing your kitchen or hanging a picture frame in your home, stud finders can be a key tool in your DIY arsenal. Detecting what's behind your sheetrock can save you work and time and could help avoid dangerous mistakes. We aim to objectively evaluate the options out there, both by using them in real-world situations and by devising specific tests. We hope this review helped you find the stud finder for your needs, applications, and budget.

Hale Milano & Ethan Newman