While home improvement stores are filled with gadgets, one of the most useful is the stud finder. Stud finders are used to locate wood studs in walls, which homeowners can then mark with the included metal tip or mount screws, nails, or hooks. While finding the best stud finder for your home improvement projects is a personal choice, there are some features to look for. Check out our guide to find out which features matter the most and learn about some of the top-rated products on the market. There’s nothing like personal experience, right? We’ve spent hours testing these out for you. We’ve been researching stud finders for years.
Our top recommendations come from trusted manufacturers and have been proven to work well. We’ve also done a lot of hands-on testing and reading of reviews. Our number one pick is the Bosch GSP10VT Laser Level. It is super fast, accurate, and very well built.
Top 10 stud finders at home depot Review for 2023
If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably had to find a stud in your wall at some point. Stud finders help you locate the 2x4s that are in your wall and help you mount things like shelves and mirrors.
But how do you find the best stud finder for the job? There are several different types of tools available to find those pesky studs, and some are better suited to certain jobs than others.
1. CRAFTSMAN Stud Finder, 3/4-Inch Depth (CMHT77633)
Features :
- WORKS ON WALLPAPER & FABRIC: The stud finder has a depth range of 3/4-inch through drywall and works on surfaces covered in wallpaper and fabric
- LOCATE STUD EDGES: The stud finder wall scanner has the edge detection to locate Stud Edges of Both Wood and Metal Stud
- DURABILITY: The wood/metal stud finder has Shock-Resistant & Water-Resistant body for durability and long life
Additional Info :
This stud finder by Craftsman is a handheld electronic device that helps you locate wall studs or other objects behind a wall. It has a depth range of 0. 8 in. to 3. 7 in. and a battery life of 1,000 scans.
The stud finder scans the wall at a distance of 1/8 in. and detects the wood behind the plaster. The device has a built-in LED light that illuminates the wall you’re scanning, making it easier to locate the studs. The LED light is also bright enough to identify wires behind a wall. The stud finder is easy to use and runs on two AAA batteries.
2. Stud Finder Wall Scanner – 5 in 1 Stud Detector with Intelligent Microprocessor chip and HD LCD Display, Stud Sensor Beam Finders for the Center and Edge of Wood AC Wire Metal Studs Joist Pipe
Features :
- Accurate and Rapid: The stud finder adopts an intelligent micro-sensor chip with the highest sensitivity which can accurately and quickly find edges and center of metal, studs, joists, pipes, and live AC wire behind walls, floors, and ceilings. Fast detection saves users time and effort, making task completion easier. No matter professionals, homeowner,s and DIY enthusiasts, it must be an ultimate choice
- 5 in 1 Multi-function Detection: The upgraded 5-in-1 mode provides users with more detection needs. 1/2 inch scan mode locates the center and edges of wood and metal studs up to 1/2 inch deep; medium scan locates the center and edges of wood and metal studs up to 1 inch deep; Deep scan locates the center and edges of wood and metal studs up to 1.5inch deep; Metal scan detects metal (Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metal) up to 2.36 inch deep; AC scan detects live unshielded AC wires up to 2 inches deep
- LCD display and sound alarm, which can detect the exact location of the objects. When find the objects, the LCD display will indicate the direction and the intensity of beeping tells whether you are more close to the target. This LCD also features back-lit function which can provides a clear appearance even in low light conditions, indicating detection mode, center pointing, low battery indication, ect
- Easy to Use & Auto Calibration: Easy-to-read LCD display and ergonomic anti-slip handle provide users with comfort and convenience while scanning. The wall detector can be automatically calibrated anywhere on the wall to successfully find the center of studs in one step. This function provides maximum reliability to the user, greatly reduces errors in the application, and ensuring that most objects behind the wall can be detected
- Wide Use: Are you looking for tool gifts for your husband, dad, or grandpa? This stud finder will be a gift ideal for men. This stud detector quickly locates wood, metal, and AC wires hidden in the walls, floors, and ceilings of the house. Helping you avoid danger when mounting TVs, cabinets, garage racks, etc. This stud finder would be great value gifts set as Fathers Day Gifts, Anniversary Gifts, Christmas Gifts, Birthday Gifts for Men Him Husband Boyfriend!
Additional Info :
| Color | White |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Weight | 0.2375 |
This Tools 5-in-1 wall scanner is a comprehensive and smart choice for homeowners that need professional-grade quality and accuracy but at an affordable price. It includes 5 different modes and can scan for metal, wood, drywall, concrete, and even AC wiring. The 5-in-1 scanner is easy to use and can detect objects as far away as 12 inches.
When it finds something, the LCD screen will display a red alert and the unit will sound an audible alert, making it super easy to pinpoint studs and objects in your walls. The device also comes with a bonus screwdriver for removing jammed screws.
3. Stud Finder Wall Scanner – 5 in 1 Electronic Stud Detector with Upgraded Smart Sensor, Audio Alarm and HD LCD Display for The Center and Edge of Wood, AC Wire, Metal and Studs Detection (Orange)
Features :
- Accurate Smart Sensor: This stud finder is equipped with upgraded sensor chips. It can accurately and quickly locate the studs, metals, pipes and live AC wires hidden behind walls, floors and ceilings. Back Velcro Design can protect the product from wear and tear, making the movement more stable. Whether a professional, homeowner or DIY enthusiast, all will love this practical and convenient helper!
- 5 in 1 Multi-function Detection: The stud scan features 5 modes: Stud scan 1/2 inch(13 cm), 1 inch (25 mm) and 1.5 inches (38 mm), Metal scan (60 mm) and AC scan (51 mm). Depending on your needs, you can switch to the appropriate mode to help you find the center and edge of the wood, joist or beams, live AC wires and deeper metal in the wall accurately.
- LCD Upgrade Design & Audio Alarm: This stud finder comes with an upgraded backlight LCD display that gives you clear direction and accurate location of targets, When it is closing the edge or center of the target, there will be a beep alarm. It can clearly display the location of the measurement target even in low light conditions.
- Automatic Calibration & Wire Warning Indicator: The automatic calibration before use provides users with maximum reliability and accuracy, greatly reducing errors in the application. Wire Warning Detection works up to 2 inches(51mm) deep, and would always be on while scanning in Stud Scan and Metal Scan Modes. This will keep you away from AC power lines and no worry about safety hazards during construction.
- Professional Technology & Service: SUNTUTUFY is a team dedicated to the development and production of stud detectors with professional technology and mature production processes that provide you with the highest quality and highest precision stud finder. Please feel free to contact us if you have any problems with use. We seek to provide a good customer experience.
Additional Info :
| Color | Orange |
This is a great stud finder that can scan for wood, metal, and drywall. The “smart” sensor recognizes which material it is scanning and gives the appropriate signal. The LCD screen is easy to read, and the included batteries are ready to go. It has an easy to use on/off switch, and the rotating head allows you to get a full 360-degree view.
The loud audio alert lets you know if you’re close to your desired object, and the bright LED light makes it easy to scan in dark corners and at night. It is lightweight and very easy to use.
4. Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 Professional Stud Finder with 13-Sensors for the Highest Accuracy Detects Wood & Metal Studs with Incredible Speed, Yellow
Features :
- ACCURATE: More sensors = More accuracy. The ProSensor M210 has 13 sensors and 21 Enhanced Precision LEDs. Conventional stud finders have 1 or 2 sensors. With more sensors, Franklin Sensors stud finders are the market’s most precise and best stud finders. The M210 has a max detection depth of 1.7″. The enhanced precision LEDs track the exact location of studs while displaying the center and edges simultaneously.
- EASY: One mode finds it all! It finds wood beams metal studs, pipes, live electrical wires, and the M210 stud finder auto-selects the most accurate mode for changes in material or depth. No toggling between standard-scan and deep-scan. Also, no calibration is required. Just press and hold the button to begin your scan. Additionally, you can start over a stud, unlike other stud sensors that give false readings. It is undoubtedly the most intuitive stud finder on the market
- SHOWS THE CENTER AND EDGES OF STUDS SIMULTANEOUSLY: The M210 saves you time by showing you more of what is behind the wall. It displays the center and edges of studs simultaneously, shows double studs and irregular configurations found in older homes that other stud finders cannot detect.
- DURABLE: Designed for all users from homeowners to DIY enthusiasts to professionals, the M210 stud finder is accurate and durable. It saves you time while still being tough enough to withstand being dropped off a ladder or tossed into a toolbox.
- EXTRA FEATURES: Live Electrical Warning, Built-In Bubble Level and Convenient Pencil Caddy
Additional Info :
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 2.5 |
| Width | 8 |
| Length | 9 |
| Weight | 12.3 |
Base, 2 x aa batteries includedthe franklin m210 is our best stud finder due to its professional features and accuracy. This model will help you find any type of wall material, including wood and metal studs. The m210 has a yellow base that makes it easy to see and find when scanning. It is also equipped with 13-sensors that provide the best scanning accuracy of ±1/8 inch.
This model is also very fast when it comes to scanning, with its advanced signal processing, which reduces scanning time to just 5 seconds. It also has a sensitivity adjustment level that allows you to scan more sensitively.
5. DEWALT Stud Finder, 3/4”, Locate Framing Studs Efficiently with LED Arrows, Ideal for Wood and Metal, AAA Batteries Included (DW0100)
Features :
- Center-find technology to easily find the center of the stud
- Detection depth of 3/4 in. for wood and metal
- AC and live wire detection for added safety
- Constant auto-calibration to save time during use
- Center marking channel for added convenience
Additional Info :
| Color | Multi |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.1 |
| Width | 5.84 |
| Length | 8.9 |
| Weight | 0.000625 |
The Dewalt DW0100 is a great stud finder that the manufacturer claims to be the best multipurpose stud finder available. This is a cordless stud finder that is powered by two AA batteries and has magnetic detection for easier detection of metal studs. The Dewalt DW0100 is a popular stud finder for two main reasons. First, it has arrows that light up to guide users to the studs.
Second, it has a magnetic tip that can detect metal and is effective in finding metal framing such as pipes and gutters, which are often made of metal. This stud finder has a depth range of 1/2 inch to 5 inches, which is sufficient for most applications.
6. Franklin Sensors FS710PRO ProSensor 710+ Professional Stud Finder with 13-Sensors for the Highest Accuracy Detects Wood & Metal Studs with High Speed, Yellow
Features :
- ACCURATE: More sensors = More accuracy. The ProSensor 710+ has 13 sensors. Conventional stud finders have 1 or 2 sensors. With more sensors, Franklin Sensors stud finders are the market’s most accurate and best stud finders. The ProSensor 710+ has a max detection depth of 1.6″. The precision LEDs are spaced every 1/2″ and track the location of studs while displaying the center and edges simultaneously.
- EASY: One mode finds it all! It finds wood studs, metal studs and the ProSensor 710+ stud finder auto-selects the most accurate mode for changes in material or depth. No toggling between standard-scan and deep-scan. Also, with Franklin Sensors stud finders, no calibration is required. Just press and hold the button to begin your scan. Additionally, you can start over a stud, unlike other stud sensors that give false readings. It is undoubtedly the most intuitive stud finder on the market.
- SHOWS THE CENTER AND EDGES OF STUDS SIMULTANEOUSLY: The ProSensor 710+ saves you time by showing you more of what is behind the wall. It displays the center and edges of studs simultaneously, shows double studs and irregular configurations found in older homes that other stud finders cannot detect.
- DURABLE: Designed for all users from homeowners to DIY enthusiasts to professionals, the ProSensor 710+ stud finder is accurate and durable. It saves you time while still being tough enough to withstand being dropped off a ladder or tossed into a toolbox.
- EXTRA FEATURES: Integrated Ruler and bubble level
Additional Info :
| Color | Yellow |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 2.7 |
| Width | 3 |
| Length | 7.5 |
| Weight | 0.4 |
Scan line, and beep alert for locating studs. It is a dual-purpose detector that can be used as a stud finder or a metal detector. The prosensor 710+ features a bright yellow scan line which makes it easier to detect the stud. It has a fast scan speed of 800 scans per second that makes it more efficient. It features a beep alert when it detects a stud.
The unit is cordless, and you can use it for extended time without getting tired. Its compact design makes it easy to use in small spaces. It can also be used as a metal detector.
7. Stud Finder Wall Scanner, ENGiNDOT 5 in 1 Electronic Stud Sensor Detect Center and Edge of Stud with Wire Alarm, Depth Tracker, Unit Change, 3 Signal Lights, for Wood Beam Joist Metal Stud Detection
Features :
- Accurate and Quick Stud Finder – The ENGiNDOT stud finder can detect 4 materials include wood, ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, and AC wires. This wall scanner has 2 wood scan modes with the upgraded smart chip that can precisely locate the center and edge of the wood stud. The exact wood scan is up to 0.75 in.(20mm) deep, the deep wood scan can through 2 layers of drywall up to1.5 in.(38mm) thick.
- Wire Warning & Metal Detection up to 100MM – Electrical wire detection is up to 2 in.(50mm) depth. No matter what detection mode it is in, AC live wire scan always working on. The ferrous metal scan is up to 3.15 in.(80mm) deep, the non-ferrous metal scan is up to 4 in.(100mm) deeper than normal, so you won’t worry about drilling or hammering into a live wire, metal pipes, and cables.
- Automatic Calibration & 3 Signal Lights- Saving your effort the stud scanner calibrates automatically without pressing the button manually all the time. Signal Lights show green when the detector calibration is ready and changes from yellow to red as you approach the center of the detected object. Easy to read and use with a large LCD screen.
- Works on Wallpaper & Fabric too – The stud finder is not just suitable for drywall. It also scans through the surfaces covered in wallpaper, popcorn ceilings, fabric, plaster walls, and textured surfaces, locating wood metal studs joists beam metal pipe rebar and live wire in walls, floors, or ceilings.
- Durable Material and Ergonomic Design – Featured soft rubber buttons to provide a comfortable using experience. This stud finder wall scanner comes with a sturdy body that ensures durability. The cotton on the back has prevented the damage caused to the wall, satisfies your DIY and home projects. ENGiNDOT offers 24 hours quick response and product technical support for each customer, please feel free to contact us.
Additional Info :
| Color | Grey, Black, Orange |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 0.98 |
| Width | 2.56 |
| Length | 5.7 |
The EnginDot 5 in 1 Electronic Stud Sensor is a complete solution for finding the location of wall studs. It is useful for finding studs in drywall, plaster, brick, and concrete. The wall scanner can be used to find studs inside the wall or behind the wall. It can be used in new homes or older homes to find the location of the studs behind the wall coverings.
The electronic stud sensor detects the center and edge of the stud and provides visual and audio signals to let you know you have found the stud. The stud sensor has a depth tracker that lets you know how deep you are digging.
8. The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder
Features :
- The world’s simplest stud finder. Works with all drywall construction. Made in the USA.
- NOT INTENDED FOR USE ON LATH & PLASTER WALLS.
- Drywall is hung to wood or metal studs using screws or nails. The StudBuddy utilizes super-strong neodymium magnets to detect those screw/nail heads as you run the stud finder across your wall. When a screw or nail head is detected, The StudBuddy “sticks” to the wall, pointing you to the exact location of these studs.
- There are no batteries or moving parts to worry about. The StudBuddy is always ready to work!
- Ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in your hand and constructed of plastic that won’t mar or scratch your walls.
- Perfect for hanging cabinets, paintings, televisions, mirrors and anything else that requires sturdy mounting to wood/metal studs.
- The StudBuddy is proudly manufactured in the USA.
- Our company supports Hire Heroes USA and the National Breast Cancer Coalition.
Additional Info :
| Color | Orange |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.25 |
| Width | 1 |
| Length | 5.75 |
| Weight | 0.1 |
This is another product that we have included in our list of the best stud finder on the market. Studbuddy has been manufacturing magnetic stud finders for more than a decade. They have a wide range of stud finders, from the simple and affordable to the high-end professional tools. The Studbuddy Magnetic Stud Finder is one of the most popular products they make.
If you want a reliable and affordable stud finder that will help you find the wall studs in your home, this is an excellent choice. This is an inexpensive stud finder that has a very useful design. The handle is large and has a soft grip, which makes it comfortable to hold.
9. Stud Finder Wall Scanner – 5 in 1 Electronic Stud Sensor Wall Detector Joist Finders Edge Center Finding with LCD Display for Wood Beams AC Wires Metal Detection (Silver)
Features :
- 5 SCANNING MODES UP TO 60MM DEPTH – Our stud locator with multi-functions could quickly and easily locate wood studs metal pipes and live AC wires behind walls, floors, and ceilings. This scanner features stud modes with 3 depth types,detecting up to 1.5 inches(38 mm) deep in drywall; Metal mode could detect various metal materials deep up to 2.36 inches; and AC mode detects live AC wires up to 2 inches.
- GREAT ACCURACY AND CONSISTENCY -Our stud finder is professionally designed and equipped with UPGRADED SENSOR CHIPS. It senses changes in density behind the wall and help locate the stud center and edge with GREAT ACCURACY. Take it home, and make your DIY project easier!
- NEVER WORRY DRILLING INTO LIVE WIRES – WireWarning Detection works up to 2 inches(51mm) deep,and would ALWAYS ON while you are scanning in StudScan/DeepScan/MetalScan Modes.This would keep you away from AC wires and avoid you from drilling into water pipe or electrical wires. Whether you are a professional, homeowner or a DIY enthusiast, you would find great use with it.
- DIGITAL LCD DISPLAY & CLEAR SOUND WARNING – Helps you Find the Exact Stud Center and Edges Easily Quickly – This digital stud detector features large LCD display together with clear sound warning,and could help you find the exact stud center and edges Easily,Quickly and Accurately, saving you more time and effort!
- WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS STUD FINDER: Going through years of in-depth research on stud finders, designed with mature product process by professional teams, our stud finder would give you top quality and great accuracy, and provide multi-functions to meet all your practical needs on various wall structures.
Additional Info :
| Color | Yellow |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.1 |
| Width | 2.75 |
| Length | 6.49 |
| Weight | 0.59 |
This electronic stud finder is a must for anyone that needs to find a wall stud for hanging a picture, shelf, mirror, etc. I love that it can find wood, metal, and drywall as well. It’s also useful for finding joists. It’s compact and easy to use. There is a lcd screen that shows the depth of the item you are seeking. It has 3 different power settings.
It will detect the deepest object (beep) within a range of 4-16 inches. It’s powered by a 9V battery (not included). It also comes with a 1-year limited warranty. Click here to read more reviews and buy on Amazon.
10. Stud Finder Wall Scanner – 4 in 1 Electric Wood Detector, Sensor Wall Scanner with LCD Display, Beam Finder Center Finding & Sound Warning for Wood AC Wire Metal Studs Detection (Black)
Features :
- Safe and Reliable. VIVREAL is committed to developing the reliable stud finder and helping you detect the hazard. No more worries about the annoying little things during decoration with the help of this stud finder. VIVREAL stud finder can help you find the edges and center of the objects easily and quickly. This wall scanner can detect the Live AC Wire in all modes. Our advanced technology enables accuracy detection to protect you from danger.
- Four Scanning Modes. VIVREAL stud finder provides four scanning modes. Depending on the tasks you have, you can switch to the desired mode. The stud scan is used for finding and locating the center and edges of wood or metal studs up to 3/4 in (19mm) deep; Deep mode can be used for scanning walls for 1 1/(2 ) in (38mm) deep; Metal mode locates and detects metal (such as 1/2 inch rebar) up to 2 1/(4 )in (60mm) deep; and AC scan locates live AC wires up to 2 in (51mm) deep.
- Graphical LCD Display.This multiple-function wall scanner detector has a graphical LCD display, which indicates many cues during detection, such as detection mode, signal strength, automatic calibration, battery indication with maximum readability. The low battery Indicator icon displays when the battery level is getting low, reminds you to replace a brand new 9-volt battery in time.
- Sound Waring.VIVREAL beam finder offers the beep alert. When you detect an object, it would beep continually. The loud sound warning together with the LCD screen helps detect the accurate location of the objects. Then a peck shape will display on the graphical screen. You can use the pencil to point to the location of the object. The audible and visible cues reliably keep users informed when an object, such as metal, studs, AC live wiring is found.
- Simple and Fast.The stud finder wall scanner can quickly find the edges and center of metal studs, pipes, rebar, joists behind walls, floors, and ceilings as well as the live AC wires. Fast detection saves users time and efforts, making the task easier. The button on the middle of the body is used for selecting from four scanning modes. The other button on the left side is to help you easily read the information on LCD screen and quickly detect the objects behind.
Additional Info :
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | |
| Height | 1.1 |
| Width | 2.75 |
| Length | 6.49 |
| Weight | 0.34 |
This wall scanner detects wood, plastic, drywall, and other common materials behind your walls. The unit has a large LCD screen to make it easy to determine what you’ve located behind your walls. The scanner has a sensitive signal indicator and is equipped with a powerful battery. This scanner features a wide detection area that covers up to two feet.
The scanner has a high-frequency signal and a long battery life. It is easy to use and can detect objects at a depth of up to 3/8 inch. The scanner’s sound indicator is loud enough to alert you to your target, and it has an automatic power-off function to save battery life.
Get the Best stud finders at home depot
Now you know the details about the best stud finders at home depot, you can use the buying guide to decide which one is right for you. All of these devices are so advanced that they all do essentially the same thing. The only major difference between them is the design and the capability to do more than one task.
Some of these stud finders are able to detect electrical wires as well as studs, which is a really handy feature when trying to remodel your house. Before you purchase one of these stud finders, you should decide what you need it for, and then purchase one that suits your needs.
The best stud finders are so advanced nowadays that they have multiple features that you can use for many purposes. If you need one for hanging pictures, installing shelves, or any other small project, you can choose a simple stud finder that is easy to use and won’t confuse you.
On the other hand, if you’re planning on doing some serious construction in your house, you should invest in a stud finder that is capable of detecting electrical wires as well. This way, you won’t have to worry about being electrocuted when knocking down walls, and you can get your project done quicker.
Once you know what you need your stud finder for, you can start looking for one that suits your needs. Remember to check the battery life and the charging system, because you don’t want to end up with a device that loses its functionality after a few charges.
Also, try to find a stud finder that is easy to use and has a clear display. If you get one with a lot of buttons and knobs, you might get confused and won’t be able to use it to its full potential.
Finally, don’t forget to check the warranty. Most of these devices have warranties of a year, which is more than enough time to find all the studs in your house. After a year, you might need to invest in a new one, so you should choose a company that has an excellent warranty policy and honors it.
Conclusion
Now you know which are the best stud finders at home depot and have a clear understanding of what to choose for your specific needs. All of these devices are so advanced and versatile that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a professional contractor or an amateur DIYer, you will find a stud finder that suits your needs.
Frequently Questions and Answers
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What is the Best Stud Finder?
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What is the best product to find studs?
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Are stud finders worth it?
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How do you use a stud finder?
This is the best way to find studs using a stud finder. You can also use the back of the device to find the edges of the stud. This will help you find studs even if you don’t have a straight wall.
Can you use a stud finder on drywall Yes, you can use a stud finder on drywall.
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Which is the best brand of stud finder?
Conclusion
Overall, the stud finder with the best accuracy is the Stanley STHT73955 (view at Amazon). It features a digital display, easy-to-see LED lights, and an automatic shut-off to preserve the battery. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the StudSensor SC-2 (view at Home Depot) is your best bet.
It’s also digital, comes with an adjustable head, and can find both wood and metal studs. But if you want to scan large areas, the Stanley STHT72270 (view at Home Depot) is the best cordless stud finder on the market.