The 7 Best Stud Finders of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
When working on any home improvement project, whether hanging up a mirror or securing shelves to the wall, you need the proper tools at your disposal. A stud finder is essential to determine what you’re drilling and ensure support for a lasting hold.
“The most common use for a stud finder is locating wall studs, which are boards that function as framing elements in your home, supporting the walls,” says Brian Shaunfield, store manager at a Charlotte-area Lowe’s. “Homeowners most often encounter the need to locate these framing boards when hanging an object—mirror, art, decor or otherwise—using the stud as a stable and safe anchor.”
To find the best stud finders on the market, we tested 30 models in our Des Moines lab, evaluating them on performance, design, ease of use, and value. We also spoke with experts to get their insight on perfecting your next DIY project.
Franklin Sensors ProSensor M90 Professional Stud Finder at Amazon
$29
Calculated Industries StudMark Magnetic Stud Finder at Amazon
$15
Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Professional Stud Finder at Amazon
$53
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It has extra-helpful LED lights and doesn't require calibration.
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It's bulky.
For a stud finder that can help with any home project, we recommend the Franklin Sensors ProSensor M90. This battery-powered electronic stud finder features nine ultra-precise sensors, along with nine precision LEDs that illuminate the length and width of the stud to provide even better precision.
During our testing, the LED lights made it easy to identify the entire stud, from the center to the edge points, for a comprehensive and complete reading. It also worked well on various surface types, though we noticed that it detected metal more quickly than wood, electrical, PVC pipe, and copper.
This stud finder only comes with one mode, so you don’t have to toggle between several options, and doesn't require calibration either—all you have to do is press the button to begin scanning. The streamlined design of this stud finder made it simple to use and read, and it only took one try to accurately detect the stud. While undoubtedly a quality option, this stud finder may be too large for people with small hands. Still, there is a lot to love about this durable, effective, and time-saving device.
Sensor Type: Electronic | Max Detection Depth: 1.5 inches | Weight: 9 ounces
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Henry Wortock
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Henry Wortock
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Henry Wortock
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Henry Wortock
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