Every professional and serious DIY-er knows you need more than just your instincts to determine the exact spot to hang a heavy frame or mirror or support the weight of permanent improvements, such as cabinets and built-in shelving. For this, you need a stud finder. But with so many on the market, it can be hard to find the right one. Well, you can stop looking because we’ve uncovered the 12 top reviewed and most trusted stud finders available online right now.
The stud finder was invented back in the 1970s and has become a staple in homes and worksites across the world. Before this revolutionary (for the time) technology, people had to rely on their hearing to figure out where studs were hiding. Stud finders work using a type of radar scanning system of magnets to find wood, metal, and other hidden materials behind drywall, concrete, and more. Some combine all methods while others boasts features that will help you find hidden electrical cables or hang a multi-mounted object with laser precision.
These are the top 12 stud finders:
1. ProSensor 710 Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Precision Stud Finder
Price: 53.03
The ProSensor 710 by Franklin was designed for professionals who can’t compromise accuracy. With an easy-to-read 7-inch LED display, this deep-scanning tool finds and measures studs all at once. A quick-read integrated ruler will show you exactly where to mark while the ergonomic grips minimizes hand fatigue during extended use. The ProSensor 710 boasts a 21-inch square sensing area and 13 sensors to scan up to a depth of 1.7-inches. Use it right out of the package; no calibration required. Franklin Sensors was born out of necessity and takes pride in establishing lifelong relationships with its customers.
Top Product Features
- Uses 2-AA batteries
- Instant read from any start point
- Width identification
- 13 powerful sensors
Product Reviews
- The ProSensor uses multiple sensors to find both the center and edges. It works best with standard drywall, but can also penetrate plaster and wood paneling. Bright visual display, not just audio. Additional sensors locate stud edges. No calibration cycle required." – BestReviews.com
- It’s an electronic stud finder with multi-sense technology which can locate studs in multiple locations on your wall, making it ideal for larger scale jobs. It also has bright LED lights which show you the location of studs, making accurate marking easier. It also detects other hidden objects, so you’ll never find yourself drilling through your wiring or plumbing. It operates with 2 AA batteries." – ResearchCore.org
- The button for a detection of studs and other in-wall objects is placed on the handle. On pressing the button, the ProSensor starts locating wooden and metallic studs, beams, water pipes, gas pipes, wires in walls or nonuniformity of their surface material. With that, this tool senses through up to 1.5 inches of wall material, hence giving you a deep scan even in bad conditions. This capability makes this model a versatile solution both for home use, and construction works performed by small construction brigades. The device is very simple to use in any premises. Just insert the batteries, put the finder against the wall, push the detection button on the handle and slide the device across the wall." – BestAdvisor.com
- The ProSensor uses innovative stud sensing technology, and it determines stud presence based on density. It is not a metal detector like what other stud finders are. With its length, it can sense two succeeding studs at the same time. It measures 7 x 3 x 2 inches. The ProSensor is easy to use, thanks to the bright visual display allowing you to know just where the stud is, instead of listening to beeps. All you have to do is press a button and the LED indicators would allow you to find the stud. It is also reliable and you can easily determine stud centers." – StudFinderTool.com
- The innovative technology of the Franklin ProSensor 710 easily identifies the size and placement of objects hidden behind your walls. Its light system of powerful LEDs clearly indicates where the exact center of a stud lies. Sensor pad detects copper pipes. Works on ceramic tile." – Wiki.EZVid.com
2. CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder
Price: 10.24
If you are looking for an affordable and hands-free stud finder, look no further. The CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder is small but powerful and easily fits into your pocket or tool belt. This compact, battery-free magnetic stud finder features a two position level and soft grip for comfortable use. With a 1-inch scan depth, this stud finder can help you find the most secure spot to mount whatever it is you need to stay in place. The C.H. Hanson Company was founded in 1866 by a Civil War veteran and entrepreneur and has been making tools for each generation since.
Top Product Features
- Small, compact design
- High-powered magnets for hands-free use
- Built in two-way level
- Affordable and reliable
Product Reviews
- Sometimes the simplest ways are the best ways, and the CH Hanson magnetic stud finder is proof of that. Never runs out of power. Very attractive entry-level price point. Basic bubble level also included. Strong magnetic attraction to stud nails, few false readings. Only a simple "S" sweeping motion required." – BestReviews.com
- This basic magnetic stud finder is highly portable and reliable: it requires no batteries, can easily be slipped into your pocket and features a two-way level to make marking easier. Also its one of the most accurate stud finder tools. Ergonomic grips make prolonged use more comfortable and the powerful magnet facilitates hands-free marking and measuring." – ResearchCore.org
- This one is best suited for a single, small project. It’s cheap enough to be nearly disposable, and you’ll find it gives you an advantage over the tap-and-pray method you’d have to use without it. Small and compact, easily fits in pocket; uses powerful rare earth magnets to pinpoint the exact location of screws or nails in a stud and allows hands free use; 2 way level for ease of marking; soft grip for easy grabbing and gentle touch, no batteries required." – Homethods.com
- This magnetic stud finder also very cheap and works using neodymium magnets. It has two magnets. It is made possible to determine the framing stud behind the wall more accurately. This stud finder tool is quite good in the hand, making it easy to use. The main thing that sets it apart from the competition is the availability of 2-way bubble level." – ProToolsHub.com
- You can carry the finder in the pocket of your shirt or trousers while many other competing products only allow carrying attached to your wrists or in a tool pocket on a belt. In this regard, the small size of the tool offers an additional benefit of keeping your tool pocket free and you can put another tool there. However, the main advantage of this stud finder by CH Hanson is its power independent design." – BestAdvisor.com
- Its simplicity is its greatest asset. The CH Hanson fits in your pocket and utilizes two powerful magnets that seek out your wall studs without fail. It is hard to argue with the accuracy of a magnet. Tie a string around the device and sweep it across the wall - the magnet will naturally pull it to the stud nails. This method will even allow the device to work through thick plaster. 2 way level for ease of marking No need for batteries." -- ContractorCulture.com
- The CH Hanson 03040 comes at a remarkable price for its effectiveness. In addition to detecting studs, it can sense screws and nails hidden in your walls with no false positives. Plus, the powerful magnet allows it to hang hands-free above an ideal mark. Polarized pull adds feel to sensing. Penetrates sheetrock. Built-in bubble level." – Wiki.EZVid.com
3. Zircon e50-FFP
Price: 18.79
The Zircon StudSensor e50 makes is easy to locate studs and joists – both wood and metal – behind drywall and flooring. Featuring a built-in voltage detector, the e50 ensures you don’t inadvertently drill into a dangerous situation. Two scanning modes mean you can search behind walls as deep as 1.5-inches with pinpoint accuracy. Zircon’s patented SpotLite Pointer, over-the-stud indicator, and TruCal calibration technology are exclusive to the brand and make this stud finder a great value for home or work use. Its comfort grip design reduces hand wear and makes it easy to use in any position.
Top Product Features
- Deep scanning available
- Easy-view LCD
- Edge indicator
- WireWarning detection
Product Reviews
- The Zircon Edge Finder is a more affordable alternative to higher end electronic models. Special light draws "arrow" on targets.Penetrates varying thicknesses of different wall materials. Also has AC wire finding option." – BestReviews.com
- 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." – BestAdvisor.com
- This Zircon will allow you to quickly and accurately scan your wall for studs, and will alert you to the possibility of live wires in the vicinity. LCD display indicates when a stud edge is approached. Shines an arrow-shaped light on the wall to mark the target WireWarning® detection up to 2 in.” – ContractorCulture.com
- The Zircon e50-FFP utilizes a patented spotlite pointer to shine an arrow-shaped light on the wall over your intended target. If you start your scan over a stud, the unit will ask you to begin again in a new location, ensuring you'll know where the stud's edges are. Ergonomically designed. Handyman club approved." – Wiki.EZVid.com
4. Zircon MultiScanner i520 OneStep
Price: 49.84
The MultiScanner i520 OneStep by Zircon is a multifunctional tool that easily and efficiently locates metal and wood studs, live electrical wiring, and hidden joists behind floors, ceilings, and walls. Ideal for use on thicker walls, this easy-to-use stud finder has a scanning depth of 1.5 inches and can detect metal up to 3 inches deep. Its exclusive WireWarning® system will help you avoid accidentally nailing into potentially-dangerous live wires. Auto correcting technology means you can start scanning anywhere, even over a stud. Zircon scanners are some of the most-used tools on the market and are known for reliability, accuracy, and dependability.
Top Product Features
- Locates live electrical wiring
- Corrects common user errors
- LCD screen
- Locates edges and center
Product Reviews
- DIYers and contractors often need to find more than studs in walls, and this Zircon has that versatility. Good to have around when remodeling, or attaching items to walls. Fast calibration cycle. Detects center of stud, not just location. Also detects live electrical wiring. Deep scanning mode for thicker or insulated walls." – BestReviews.com
- This electronic stud finder features and LCD display, an audio tone and a laser pointer for accurate detection of both metal and wooden studs. It will also detect live wiring up to two inches into walls. The four scanning modes (stud scan, deep scan, metal scan and AC scan) make it ideal for both tradesmen and home carpenters. The thing that makes this model stand out is the live wire detector, as drilling into wiring is the last thing you want." – ResearchCore.org
- It’s fairly simple to use compared to some of the other options on the market, and it can detect both the center and edges of studs as you’re scanning with it. The LCD screen makes it extremely easy to find both the edges and the center of the stud for pinpoint accuracy. In addition to that, it can also detect live wires while you’re scanning. This can add quite a bit of protection, since you know you won’t accidentally drill into the power lines for your house. In addition to that, you can also detect metal under the surface of the metal so you don’t accidentally drill into a support bracket or other structure which will prevent you from getting in. It detects both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, so you can avoid drilling into pipes as well." – Homethods.com
- If there’s one thing the Zircon i520 can boast of, it is its multifunction scanning system. Besides the regular stud scan mode, there’s the DeepScan mode, the AC Scan mode, and the metal mode. Whatever be the wall scanning needs you have, they are covered by this device. Scan results are shown through an LCD screen. It also comes with live electrical wiring detection, making this device safe to use. This tool can also spot user errors and correct them. The packaging is easy to open. It uses no clamshells for covering and there are no twist ties to disentangle as you unpack." – StudFinderTool.com
- The Zircon MultiScanner i520 is the perfect choice for DIY-ers who have a lot of home projects to tackle. It features Auto Correcting Technology to adjust for the most common user errors, as well as a simple graph on its backlit display. Detects items behind plaster walls. Live wire alerts." – Wiki.EZVids.com
5. Precision Sensors Stud Finder Professional Deep Scanning LED Profinder 5000
Price: 39.95
When you don’t want to waste time, the Profinder 5000 makes quick work out of finding hidden studs. This smart handheld offers instant detection of studs, metal, and other out-of-sight objects. Featuring a large sensor pad, the Profinder 5000 by Precision Sensors offers unrivaled accuracy and can sense multiple studs simultaneously to speed up large and tedious jobs. Start anywhere, no sliding required. This technologically-advanced stud finder easily fits in your hand and comes in a bright blue color that makes it stand out from other tools.
Top Product Features
- Instant detection of hidden objects including wood and metal
- LED lights locate study center and edges
- Use with or without sliding
- Batteries included
Product Reviews
- Inexpensive and effective. As long as you aren't trying to locate or gather any complex info about what’s going on in the wall, this is a great purchase. It does what it is built to do, and it does it well. This is perfect for the general homeowner. More sensor pad area than conventional stud finders. Senses hidden objects with, or without, sliding across the wall." – ContractorCulture.com
- It functions as a density detector. The Precision features one-step operation. All you have to do is hold the button down to switch it on and then place it on the wall to start locating studs. User benefits include ergonomics as it is very light, quick location of studs because of the wide sensor pad area, and simultaneous detection of studs in multiple locations." – StudFinderTool.com
- The one-step operation and advanced technology of the Precision Sensors Profinder 5000 make for a fast and accurate user experience. It has a larger sensor pad than most of its competition, and it can even sense studs without touching the wall. Works without sliding. Lights indicate exact location. Conveys width information." – Wiki.EZVid.com
6. StudPoP 100480-SP Magnetic Stud Finder
Price: 9.95
Who said finding studs had to be boring? StudPoP makes it fun. This simple, easy-to-use, magnetic stud finder works without batteries to find the center of studs hidden below drywall. StudPoP’s 100480-SP model works like no other stud finder on the market using a magnetic head that stands straight when passing over metal nails or screws. This pocket-sized tool is made in the USA and was developed by a retired engineer who spent years searching for a better way to locate studs and pipes while working on his rental properties. It’s fast, fun, and finds what you are looking for.
Top Product Features
- Small, compact design
- No batteries
- Comes in nine colors
- Made in the USA
Product Reviews
- This very simple magnetic stud finder is a no fuss model which locates studs by detecting the metal fasteners on the framing stud and activating a “popper” to let you know where it is. In terms of functionality, it does exactly what it says it will – finds studs – and nothing extra. It requires no batteries and works on all kinds of drywall including sheetrock, tile, plaster, and lath. It is designed by professional contractors and made in the USA." – ResearchCore.org
- A colorful, simple, nifty little device that finds studs without fuss. The Studpop's black cylinder has an inner knob that looks like a colorful game piece from a board game. When you sweep the wall and hit a fastener, the knob springs upright." – TheSpruce.com
- The Studpop doodad will literally “pop-up” when you sweep it over something metallic - it is a nice visual cue. Although it looks like a small kid’s toy, it functions as well as any magnetic stud finder you could get for such a low low price. This tool could be paired up with pro level tools as a fact checker of sorts. Some scanners can be off by a bit - use this Studpop to verify stud presence." – ContractorCulture.com
7. Black + Decker BDL190S – BullsEye Auto-Leveling Interior Line Laser with Stud Sensor
Price: 54.3
For 2-in-1 capabilities, the Black + Decker BDL190S - BullsEye Auto-Leveling Interior Line Laser with Stud Sensor is in the top of its class. Auto leveling technology means you can hang pictures, shelves, televisions, and more without unsightly unevenness. Stud sensor easily detects wood and metal and offers voltage detection for live A/C wires. This is the only stud finder or level you’ll ever need around the house. Backed by Black + Decker’s two-year limited warranty, this high-end stud finder is guaranteed long-lasting, effective, and efficient.
Top Product Features
- Bullseye precision
- LED display
- Two tools in one
- Detects wood, metal, and live A/C wires
Product Reviews
- This Black & Decker sensor is a great stud finder for anyone – including those who have never used one. It has a dual function system. It works both as a stud finder and an auto-leveling device. Controls are also pretty straightforward. There’s the huge on-off switch located on the left side for the leveling function, and the huge button on the right side for finding studs. The auto-leveling light makes installing pictures, TVs, and wall decorations so much easier. Featuring an LCD display that’s easy to read, the product can detect wood, metal and AC wires. This stud finder comes in a transparent plastic display case which you can also use as its storage case." – StudFinderTool.com
- Simplify your next project with the Black & Decker BDL190S. It's a 2-in-1 tool featuring a horizontal laser that projects a perfectly straight line across whatever surface you require, making it great for hanging heavy frames, mirrors, and shelving. Ideal for installing new blinds. Self-levels without adjustment. Won't slip out of your hand." – Wiki.EZVid.com
8. Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner
Price: 63.94
The Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner offers more than just stud detection. This multi-functional sensor will find rebar, studs, steel and copper pipes, as well as live wiring. One of the strongest scanners on the markets, it easily detects density changes in cured concrete up to 4 ¾-inches thick. An illuminated and graphic LCD display offers a host of information, including center point and battery life. Use it at work, use it at home, the GMS120 will never fail to impress. Self-calibrating, this scanner eliminates user error. Manufactured by Bosch, the GMS120 was designed by some of the industry’s best engineers.
Top Product Features
- Uses one 9V battery
- Automatic center finder
- Audible detection signal
- Ergonomic and comfortable to use
Product Reviews
- 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 color from the green to the yellow and eventually to the red when the object gets close to the device. Thus, in addition to a 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." – BestAdvisor.com
- By allowing its user to calibrate degrees of sensitivity and specific material responses, the Bosch GMS120 provides nuanced and detailed detection of woods, metals, and wiring, even when all three occupy the same general area. Illuminated lcd screen. Runs on a single 9-volt battery." – Wiki.EZVid.com
9. Craftsman Wall Scanner with CenterVision 949067
Price: 61.99
Craftsman’s deep wall scanner is multi-functional and can detect rebar and ferrous metals up to 3 inches deep. An integrated AC wire warning will let you know if hot electrical wires are hiding behind most common interior surface materials. Featuring an exclusive Spotlight Pointing System, the Craftsman Wall Scanner with CenterVision 949067 leaves no doubt about where stud centers are located. Use it right out of the box, as Craftsman has smartly included automatic calibration in this professional scanning tool. A bright LCD display is combined with an audio signal and on-screen graphics for unrivaled accuracy and ease of use.
Top Product Features
- Multi-functional; detects metal, wood, AC voltage
- Finds stud centers up to 1.5 inches deep
- One pass operation
- Dual-depth scanning
Product Reviews
- The Craftsman easily and repeatedly located steel pipe, wood studs, and a live electrical cable. It has operating instructions printed on its back and an over-the-stud alert that lets you know you've begun the calibration process in the wrong spot (on top of the wood)." – PopularMechanics.com
- It has 4 modes of function that allow you to detect studs, metal, and live wires as well as the edges and center of metal and wood studs. It shines a bright line to indicate the target location clearly. These features, as well as the price, put it right in the middle of consumer and professional usage. It is nowhere near as expensive as the highest end devices, while at the same time it is full of useful features that will assist any pro on the job - let alone someone simply trying to hang a painting." – ContractorCulture.com
10. Folai Stud Finder
Price: 20.89
This super-sensitive, backlit LCD display stud finder can help you find hidden studs, even in dimly-lit rooms. With the ability to detect metal at a depth of 3 inches, the affordable Folai stud finder is a multi-functional scanner that’s worth every penny. An auto-indicating light pairs with an audio warning, letting you know that you’ve reached dead center. You’ll never have to worry if you’ve got the juice to complete the job, since the Folai offers low-battery monitoring directly from the display.
Top Product Features
- Red and black design for easy finding
- Affordable and functional
- LCD display
- Locate studs, metal pipes, and live wires
Product Reviews
- The best part about this unit is the sheer simplicity of it all. Nearly anyone will be able to pull it right out of the box and get to work in a hurry. The instruction manuals cover it, and it can detect both the center and sides of studs. It’ll also alert you to any live wiring in the area." – Homethods.com
- It can detect various materials in walls, such as wooden structures, metal profiles, various kinds of metalware, as well as concealed electrical wiring. As a useful feature, the device offers an additional mode for detecting live wires (Trace hot AC). Speaking of metal objects detection, the finder is capable of locating them at 1/2, 1 and 1-1 / 2 inches depths. If you need to locate wood racks and wires, the device will detect them at the depth of up to 3 inches." – BestAdvisor.com
