10 Best Stud Finders UK 2022 | Bosch, StudBuddy and More
Stud finders are a crucial tool when undertaking home repairs, general DIY projects, or simply putting up a picture. When drilling a hole or hammering a nail into plasterboard or drywall, you'll need to make sure that what you're attaching to the wall is securely fixed to a wooden beam, while avoiding piping or wiring.
Picking the right tool can be confusing, so we've put together a handy buying guide to help you find the best stud finder in your price range. We've included premium options suited to professional environments, alongside budget stud finders for use around the home. We've even ranked the top 10 stud and cable finder in the UK from Bosch, StudBuddy and more!
A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.
- This content is independently produced by the mybest team. We may receive free products and services from brands and manufacturers and/or place ads, but these do not influence our content and product rankings.
- For more information, please see mybest content policy
Products or services listed have been independently ranked by the mybest Editorial Team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide as of 16-01-2023.
How to Choose a Stud Finder in the UK
- Choose an Electronic Cable Finder to Detect Live Wires, or a Magnetic Stud Finder for Locating Nails
- Look for Electronic Stud Finders With Mode Settings for Different Materials
- Check the Maximum Depth Is 40 mm or More to Detect a Wider Range of Materials
① Choose an Electronic Cable Finder to Detect Live Wires or a Magnetic Stud Finder for Locating Nails
Pick an Electronic Stud Finder for Detecting Live Wires and Non-magnetic Materials
You will find that most electronic stud finders are also capable of detecting live wires, along with other cables, wood and metal. This makes them a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and handymen who work in a variety of locations, as they're useful when drilling into brick or working around light fittings, switches and plugs.
As is the case with most electronics, you're going to see much better results with a premium model as cable finders can be notoriously unreliable when working with brick, concrete and mortar. When it comes to plasterboard and drywall, however, even the more budget-friendly stud finders shouldn't have any issues.
Magnetic Stud Finders Are Affordable and Simple to Use
When it comes to simplicity, nothing beats the classic magnetic stud finder for hanging shelves, pictures, or cabinets around your home. These powerful magnets can easily find the nails in studs behind walls and ceilings, allowing you to map out where the wooden beams are without having to worry about batteries or annoying beeping!
While a reliable option for finding where wooden joists are, these cannot detect live wires or non-magnetic metals, such as stainless steel or copper - which piping is often made from. That said, if you're not planning any serious work,these tend to be considerably cheaper than electric finders and have very little risk of breaking.
Ensure accuracy when drilling holes or hammering in nails with a laser level
② Look for Electronic Stud Finders With Mode Settings for Different Materials
When working with an electronic stud finder, you'll notice that they often have a number of different settings to choose from, or different sounds, depending on what you're detecting. For example, you may want to switch from looking for piping using the stud finder's metal mode, to searching for live cables and wiring when drilling.
The more basic electronic options will automatically tell you the type of material that's being detected, usually with a simple display and an audible alert. On the other hand, premium stud finders may have specific settings that can be changed manually. This allows for better accuracy in their detection and gives you much more detail regarding a specific material's location and depth.
③ Check the Maximum Depth Is 40 mm or More to Detect a Wider Range of Materials
Different materials can only be effectively detected at certain depths. For instance, magnetic metals can be found far easier than non-magnetic metals, even if they're further away, while live cables and wood can only be found at relatively shallow depths.
If you're tackling a home decoration project, such as putting up some shelving or hanging cabinets, and are working with drywall and plasterboard, a maximum depth of 40 mm should be more than enough to find a stud.
For more serious DIY and home renovation, however, where you run the risk of drilling into piping, we recommend choosing the highest depth range possible within your price range.
We've also ranked the 10 best cordless electric drills to help you get the job done!
10 Best Stud Finders in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Points | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Bosch GMS 120 | | A Professional Stud and Cable Finder With a Great Depth Range | |
2 | StudBuddy The StudBuddy | | A Cheap and Cheerful Stud Finder for Home Decoration | |
3 | Bosch D-tect 120 | | Hi-Tech Stud Finder for Professional Environments | |
4 | Bosch Truvo | | Great Value Electronic Stud and Cable Finder for DIY Enthusiasts | |
5 | CH Hanson Magnetic Stud Finder | | Accurate Magnetic Stud Finder With Spirit Level That’s Great for Ceilings | |
6 | Bosch Universal Detect | | Premium Stud Finder With a Full-Colour Touchscreen Display | |
7 | StudPoP Magnetic Stud Finder | | Tiny Magnetic Stud Finder for Detecting Fasteners and Nails | |
8 | Tavool Wall Scanner | | A Cost Effective Option for Those on a Budget | |
9 | Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710+ | | A Specialist Stud Finder With Thirteen Sensors for Accuracy | |
10 | Ultratool Wall Stud Finder | | Five-In-One Deep Detection for Wood, Studs and Metal Pipes |
BoschGMS 120601081000
£85.00
A Professional Stud and Cable Finder With a Great Depth Range
The Bosch GMS 120 is simply one of the best stud and cable finders on the market today, capable of detecting magnetic metals that are a staggering 120 mm deep. With a detailed display and three detection settings, this is perfect for any construction site.
A great feature found on the GMS 120 is the marking hole, which allows you to easily and accurately mark the centre of an object without moving the device. The LED ring also operates on a traffic light system, where green is safe, yellow means there is a nearby object, and red means you're directly over an object.
StudBuddyThe StudBuddy
£9.99
A Cheap and Cheerful Stud Finder for Home Decoration
If you're looking for a simple and affordable way to securely hang a cabinet, bike rack, or similarly heavy object, then the StudBuddy is the best way to go. The extra-strong neodymium magnet is practically fool-proof, as it hangs on the wall once a stud has been located, so you'll know exactly where to hammer or drill!
At this price point, this is the cheapest stud finder available. Plus, you won't have to worry about any complicated settings, batteries running low, or technical issues.
BoschD-tect 120
£229.95
Hi-Tech Stud Finder for Professional Environments
The D-tect 120 from Bosch is much more than a simple stud finder as it uses patented radar technology to detect all kinds of different objects. It can even sense water-filled plastic pipes, various metals, as well as live and non-live cables.
The crystal clear display helps you find the exact centre of each object, allowing you to quickly switch between different wall types at the push of a button. If you're looking to invest in the best of the best, this is the option for you!
BoschTruvo
£35.72
Great Value Electronic Stud and Cable Finder for DIY Enthusiasts
The Truvo is a no-nonsense electronic stud finder from Bosch that offers simplicity. Rather than an overly detailed display, it uses the same traffic light system as the GMS 120, accompanied by a beeping sound if it detects a live wire.
It automatically calibrates once the device is placed against a wall, recalibrating when taken off and placed in a new position. If you're looking for a user-friendly electronic stud and cable finder to avoid live wires, this is well worth picking up.
CH HansonMagnetic Stud Finder
£14.90
Accurate Magnetic Stud Finder With Spirit Level That’s Great for Ceilings
This pocket-sized, magnetic stud finder from CH Hanson is an incredibly handy device to have in your toolbox. Thanks to the spirit level embedded in the centre, you won't have to worry about missing the mark when you come to hammer in that nail!
if you're planning on working on a ceiling, this makes a great choice as the magnets will keep it stuck in place, leaving you with two free hands to use. Like other magnetic options, this stud finder is always ready to go as it doesn't require batteries!
BoschUniversal Detect
£78.00
Premium Stud Finder With a Full-Colour Touchscreen Display
Just narrowly missing out on our top five is the Universal Detect from Bosch. This stud finder offers a full-colour touchscreen display providing step-by-step instructions and clear details of what has been detected. It also features a marking hole, complete with Bosch's traffic light system.
Thanks to the touchscreen, this stud finder is about as detailed as you can get. Unfortunately, this addition has increased the overall cost of the unit.
StudPoPMagnetic Stud Finder
£19.10
Tiny Magnetic Stud Finder for Detecting Fasteners and Nails
The Magnetic Stud Finder from StudPop is the smallest option on our list, with a diameter of less than 6 cm. Unlike other stud finders, the indicator moves and clicks when a metal fastener is found, so you can be precise by following the little green ball!
While compact and accurate, it's rather expensive for what you get. Not to mention the danger of having something so small is that you could easily lose it. If you have an older metal toolbox, however, and prefer older methods of handiwork, this will be right up your street.
TavoolWall Scanner
£18.49
A Cost Effective Option for Those on a Budget
If you're set on an electronic stud finder for use around the home, then this offering from Tavool is a good all round option that's cost-effective. For example, if you're wall mounting a TV and aren't sure about where to drill, this is certainly worth picking up.
As a budget stud finder, it lacks the premium feel of devices from brands like Bosch. It's also worth noting that cheaper tools also tend to be less reliable, although it has a fair share of fans on Amazon.
Franklin SensorsProSensor 710+
£52.74
A Specialist Stud Finder With Thirteen Sensors for Accuracy
Unlike many stud finders on the market, the ProSensor 710+ is designed to accurately measure the width of wooden beams and other objects. The strip of LED lights illuminates to indicate the position of hidden objects, allowing you to easily visualise what is on the other side of the wall, thanks to thirteen individual sensors.
While the best on the market for what it does, the lack of a cable finding mode is disappointing, especially when considering how expensive it is! Still, it's a premium specialist device that does exactly what it sets out to do.
UltratoolWall Stud Finder
£16.89
Five-In-One Deep Detection for Wood, Studs and Metal Pipes
The Wall Stud Finder from Ultratool boasts a five-in-one deep detection function to quickly locate wood, metal studs, joists, beams, metal pipes, and live AC wire. While 40 mm isn't the deepest, it's still usually enough to detect through most plasterboard walls, flooring and ceilings.
It's probably no surprise to learn that, as a budget option, there are many reviewers claiming to have experienced issues with reliability and longevity. However, if you need a cheap and cheerful option for a one-off job, this is definitely worth the price of admission.
Written and researched by David Sexton
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Related Articles
- 10 Best Tool Kits UK 2022| Stanley, IKEA and MoreDIY and toolsWhether you're a homeowner or you live in a rented flat, having a handy tool kit or tool set is crucial for any repairs or renovations you may need to do at home, or even on your car or bike. Rather than calling up your friend to lend you that hammer, it’s a lot easier to already have a toolbox waiting for you in the shed or garage. But if you’re in the market for one, it can be overwhelming as there are so many to look at – just how many screwdrivers does one kit need? Do you need a beginners 30 piece set or a 300 piece set with a drill and power tools? Our buyer’s guide will help you decide, and our product comparison will give you options from Amazon to Argos so you can find the perfect kit.
- 10 Best Screwdriver Sets UK 2022 | Bosch, Wera and MoreDIY and toolsEvery home should have a quality screwdriver set. Even the most basic repairs you need to make around the home (or in the garden or garage) require a selection of screwdrivers. But should you buy a comprehensive set of screwdrivers or a multi-bit screwdriver with a set of interchangeable tips?Whether you're a DIY expert, or someone who can't tell a Phillips from a flathead, it can be difficult to know which screwdriver set to buy. From precision sets for electronics, to multi-bit screwdrivers with magnetic tips, our buying guide is here to answer all of your questions. Read on to find out which ones made our ranking of the top 10 best screwdriver sets in the Uk on Amazon and eBay!
- 10 Best Nail Guns UK 2021 | Ryobi, DeWalt and MoreDIY and toolsThere are many reasons why you should consider using a compressed or electric nail gun over a hammer when woodworking or doing other DIY home and garden repairs. Once you’ve tried one out, you’ll never want to go back to putting your hand in the way of a potentially wayward hammer!We’ve read the reviews and put together a list of the best nail guns available in the UK from trusted brands such as Ryobi, DeWalt and Stanley, including cordless options and those for framing. Take a look at these reliable offerings on Amazon and eBay and you’ll soon see why upgrading to a nail gun takes the hassle out of any projects you have in mind.
- Top 10 Best Easy to Grow Vegetables in the UK 2021 (Mr. Fothergill's, De Ree and More)DIY and toolsGrowing vegetables can be an incredibly rewarding experience, as can putting healthy, organic, sustainable food on your table produced by your own two hands. But it can be a bit daunting knowing where to start. The rule of thumb for first-time gardeners is to stick to low-maintenance, easy vegetables, and we're here to help you figure out which ones those are!From potatoes to parsnips, beans to beetroot, we've put together a list of the ten easiest vegetables to grow in the UK. Whether you're growing at home in pots on a balcony, indoors, or in a plot in the garden, this guide will help you choose which plants are most suitable for your situation and how to choose the right seeds to get you going. Ready, set, grow!
- 10 Best Hand Saws UK 2022 | Stanley, DeWalt and MoreDIY and toolsWhether you're someone who enjoys taking on DIY projects, you're getting into woodworking or you're a qualified builder or arborist, a hand saw is an essential tool to own. Hand saws come in a few varying types that include coping, pruning, bow, tenon, electric and panel saws to make light work of everything from wood, metal and plastic to that old tree in the garden. To make sure your saw is up for the tasks you have planned, we've compiled a buying guide to help your decision along. We've also ranked the best hand saws for cutting trees, branches and logs as well as some great beginner electric hand saws to buy on sites like Amazon, Argos and Halfords from premium tool brands such as Stanley, Draper and DeWalt.
- 10 Best Pocket Multi-Tools UK 2022 | Leatherman, Victorinox and MoreDIY and toolsA pocket multi-tool is one of the most useful and versatile pieces of equipment you can carry around with you. If you were ever in the Scouts when you were younger, you may remember their motto of "Be Prepared" and if you're planning any outdoor adventures or camping trips, then you'll want to make sure you pack a multi-tool for every eventuality.They're also a handy item to have around the home, garage or workplace as well to keep in the car or when out cycling in case of emergency. Whether you find yourself in need of a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, a knife or a can opener, a multi-tool pocket knife will have you covered, and we've taken a look at the best buys on Amazon UK for you to look at from the comfort of your own home.
- 9 Best Garden Wheelbarrows UK 2022 | Draper, Walsall and MoreDIY and toolsA good wheelbarrow can make light work of a heavy load, but we’ve all had experiences of wobbly or deflated tyres, sore calluses on our hands and achy arms after a day of lugging debris around. So, the question is – how do you find the perfect one for you and your needs? That’s what we’re looking to find in this article. We’ve done a bit of digging and come up with a guide to set the record straight when it comes to the most pertinent features in a barrow or cart. After this, we’ll share our reviews of the best wheelbarrows in the UK including light plastic options for the elderly and the cheapest heavy-duty carts on the market, all available to buy from Amazon and Argos. Gardening just got a whole lot easier.
- 10 Best Home Security Systems UK 2022 | Yale, Ring and MoreDIY and toolsIt's important to protect your home, especially when you live with children or vulnerable adults. Whether you're a first-time buyer, or just becoming aware of your home security needs, it can be difficult to know where to begin and what to expect when you invest in a security system. To help you get started, we've reviewed the 10 best home security systems from UK retailers such as Amazon, Argos and John Lewis. Our buying guide will make the choice even easier by breaking down all the key factors you'll need to consider, including cameras, alarms, panic buttons, installation and monitoring.
- 10 Best Claw Hammers UK 2022 | Stanley, Estwing and MoreDIY and toolsYou may not think there's much to picking a claw hammer, but you'd probably be surprised to learn that there are a few things you should look out for depending on the kind of jobs you have in mind. From curved to straight claw hammers to wooden handles, steel handles and fibreglass options, there are plenty of decisions you need to make before you start hammering into walls or pulling nails from plasterboard.We've ranked the 10 best claw hammers available online in the UK, featuring some of the best tool brands in the business like Stanley, Rolson, and Estwing. Whether you're looking for something small and affordable for occasional home use or something a little more robust for regular DIY projects, there's something for everyone below.
- 10 Best Stanley Knives UK 2022 | Stanley, Bosch, Gerber and MoreDIY and toolsWhile the utility knife has been around for centuries assisting those with various construction tasks, the modern Stanley knife that we all know and love was first launched in 1936. A convenient tool for a range of tasks, it cuts through materials quickly and precisely.We've put together this guide to help you find the right Stanley knife for your needs and the project that lies ahead of you, with tips on handle construction and whether to choose a snap-off or retractable blade. We've even ranked the top 10 best Stanley knives on Amazon UK!
Popular articles
- 10 Best Screwdriver Sets UK 2022 | Bosch, Wera and MoreDIY and toolsEvery home should have a quality screwdriver set. Even the most basic repairs you need to make around the home (or in the garden or garage) require a selection of screwdrivers. But should you buy a comprehensive set of screwdrivers or a multi-bit screwdriver with a set of interchangeable tips?Whether you're a DIY expert, or someone who can't tell a Phillips from a flathead, it can be difficult to know which screwdriver set to buy. From precision sets for electronics, to multi-bit screwdrivers with magnetic tips, our buying guide is here to answer all of your questions. Read on to find out which ones made our ranking of the top 10 best screwdriver sets in the Uk on Amazon and eBay!
- 10 Best Sealants UK 2022 | Everbuild, Unibond and MoreDIY and toolsSealants have a number of different household applications but there isn’t really a single sealant that works for everything. Whether you’re looking for a waterproof filler for your shower, bathtub or windows, you're assembling glass walls or you need something for both indoor and outdoor use, you’ll want the right product for the job.We’re here to take you through the different types of acrylic and silicone sealants available on Amazon and eBay and let you know which options lend themselves best to certain tasks. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices, so our buying guide and recommendations are here to help you make your decision. Your home project will be completed in no time!
- 10 Best Safety Glasses UK 2022 | Dewalt, Pyramex and MoreDIY and toolsSafety glasses are a useful way to keep your eyes protected at work, on runs, and in harsh environments. Whether you work in construction, dentistry, or your eyes are easily irritated by dust when you perform outdoor sports, purchasing a reliable pair of safety goggles or spectacles can prevent eye infections and vision damage. In this buying guide, we'll go over the difference between category A and B glasses, how to choose reliable anti-fog and UV protective lenses and much more to help you to find the best pair. We've even ranked the top 10 safety glasses in the UK on Amazon and eBay, including ones with prescription and bifocal lenses!
- 10 Best Raised Garden Beds UK 2022 | VegTrug, Vegepod and MoreDIY and toolsRaised garden beds are on an upwards trend in the UK, with more and more people keen to give home growing a try. By raising your bed above ground level, you're suddenly not limited by the less-than-desirable soil in your garden – or its lack of it. You can even grow your own fruit, veg and flowers on a patio or balcony depending on the size of the planter. A planter offers your plants a huge range of benefits, ensuring a better chance at survival.We have narrowed down the massive range of planters on offer, and there is sure to be one to suit every budget, garden and style. From raised garden beds on legs, that are ideal for those with bad backs, to large low-level raised beds perfect for growing delicious root vegetables we have the best of the bunch from VegTrug, Vegepod and more.
- 10 Best Paint Rollers UK 2022 | Hamilton, Harris and MoreDIY and toolsIt’s important to have the right tools for the job when giving your house a fresh lick of paint. Luckily, there’s a paint roller set suited to every DIY task, whether that's walls and ceilings, furniture or doors.We've done the research and found the best paint rollers for emulsions, glass paints and varnishes for a smooth, splatter-free finish - even on textured surfaces! With reviews of our 10 favourite paint rollers on Amazon, eBay and Argos, read on to find out more.
- 10 Best Garden Hoses in the UK 2021 (Hozelock, Gardena and More)DIY and toolsIf you've settled for cheap and cheerful hoses in the past, you'll know how easily they are prone to splitting. Soaking you instead of your garden is not the purpose of a garden hose, and is both frustrating and a waste of money! Whether you're looking for a sprinkler, soaker, or spray, we compare the top 10 ranking garden hoses in the UK. If you've ever wondered whether to choose a vinyl or rubber hose, or are unsure of the optimal length and diameter, we're here to help you out.
- 10 Best Socket Sets in the UK 2021 (Draper, Dewalt and More)DIY and toolsIf you fancy yourself as a bit of a handy Andy who likes to tinker, maintain or repair a range of household devices like cars, white goods and whatever else you can get your hands on, having a reliable socket set is going to be vital for getting the job done. However, with so many sets available on the market, how do you know which is the right one for you? To assist in your search and help you identify exactly what you need, we’ve put together a clear and concise buying guide providing all the most important information and advice. From there, check out our recommendations and reviews of the best socket sets for mechanics and beginners for sale on Amazon, Halfords and eBay.
- 10 Best Sandpapers for Wood UK 2022 | 3M, Klingspor and MoreDIY and toolsSanding is a necessary step in woodworking. Whether you work frequently with wood or are preparing a DIY project, using the right sandpaper will help you get professional-looking results. Before you start sanding, it's important to compare the various abrasives available on the market to avoid wasting your time or ending up with an undesirable, lacklustre finish.In this article, we aim to help you determine the ideal grade, grain and grit for a successful woodworking project. We compare sandpapers from trusted brands such as 3M, Bosch and Klingspor to save you time and money. Still unsure of which one to go for? Read on for our reviews of the best sandpapers for wood to buy online in the UK on Amazon and eBay!
- 10 Best Tape Measures UK 2022 | Stanley, Milwaukee and MoreDIY and toolsA tape measure is one of those essential household items that every home toolkit should have, as it can be used for sewing, taking body measurements, surveying, building work and more. That's why we've created this handy buying guide to help you pick the right one for the task at hand, whether you're a professional or a DIY enthusiast.We've also ranked the 10 best tape measures to buy online at Amazon, Argos, John Lewis and eBay, to make sure your measurements are on point every time ― regardless if you work in cm or inches! From metal retractable tape measures to laser gadgets that provide digital readings, our list of recommendations comes from market-leading brands like Stanley, Milwaukee, Hanmer and Am-Tech.
- Top 10 Best Lawn Mowers in the UK 2021 (Flymo, Bosch and More)DIY and toolsWhether your garden is big or small, it’s nice to have it looking spick and span for when the sun puts his hat on. Unruly patches of long grass can ruin the look of a lawn, so you'll want to have a decent lawnmower on hand to keep it looking neat and trim. However, when it comes to purchasing your new mower, there are some important decisions to be made. Do you want a cordless electric model, or a petrol motor you can ride on? A manual push mower is ideal if you don't mind a little workout, but perhaps you'd prefer a self-propelled option instead? In this guide, we compare clipping box capacity, rotary blades, cutting height and much more. We've even ranked the top 10 in the UK from trusted brands including Honda, Kärcher and Bosch, on Amazon, eBay, and John Lewis.
Search by category
Household goods
PC and cameras
Home appliances and electronics
Cosmetics and skincare
Health
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Housing equipment and renovation
Travel
Smartphones and mobile phones
Music
Smartphone applications