Best Stud Finder? $262 Bosch vs $10 CH Hanson vs 9 Other Wall Stud Scanners! Let's find out!
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- Опубликовано: 23 ноя 2024
- Stud finders, detectors, wall scanners tested: DeWalt, Zircon, Franklin T6, Franklin T13, C.H. Hanson, Bosch GMS 120, Bosch D-TECT 120, Zircon A100, Stanley, Perlesmith, and JAXWQ. Stud detectors tested for stud detection, stud edge detection, water filled PVC pipe, copper and metal pipe, electric, and speaker wire.
➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel: / projectfarm
➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
➡ Merch: www.Project-Farm.com
➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: / @projectfarm
➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
CH Hanson: amzn.to/3kWnnIv
Bosch GMS 120: amzn.to/36hP76F
Bosch D-TECT 120: amzn.to/2GjgWAc
DeWalt: amzn.to/3if3ZFe
Franklin T6: amzn.to/3n0iS1M
Franklin T13: amzn.to/30bsYTF
Zircon: amzn.to/30cuBQJ
Stanley: amzn.to/3cyGjdF
Perlesmith: amzn.to/30f5D3c
JAXWQ: amzn.to/36cDr4M
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/31aince
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC
Here's the list of products reviewed. More details in the video description. Thank you!
CH Hanson: amzn.to/3kWnnIv
Bosch GMS 120: amzn.to/36hP76F
Bosch D-TECT 120: amzn.to/2GjgWAc
DeWalt: amzn.to/3if3ZFe
Franklin T6: amzn.to/3n0iS1M
Franklin T13: amzn.to/30bsYTF
Zircon: amzn.to/30cuBQJ
Stanley: amzn.to/3cyGjdF
Perlesmith: amzn.to/30f5D3c
JAXWQ: amzn.to/36cDr4M
Am I blind or is the tacklife missing?
@@DantalionNlIt is missing.
Would love a new video on this! I'm sure stud finders have changed in 4 years, and I still haven't found one that I trust all the time.
"I went ahead and built a test wall."
I appreciate how much work goes into these videos.
Thanks so much!
Pretty awesome that he actually went ahead and textured and painted it! Dont know any other youtuber willing to put as much work into his projects as Prjoect Farm!
That’s was pretty awesome, just wish he would have done some with insulation in the stud bays, especially the foil backed stuff
J Mac true I forgot about that
@@SuperSkittles1996 took the words out of my mouth haha hes always above and beyond
My super power is the ability to miss every stud, regardless of tools or equipment. It’s pretty impressive.
Is it weird to have the same super power?
U have that too I always found it really useful especially when ur trying to put up something
lol Thanks for watching.
I think we were both exposed to the same burst of gama radiation because I have the same power.
Would have liked to see the Walabot
As a contractor trying to stay up to date with changing tech, and making sure to get the best bang for my buck I have to say…I’m watching more and more of your videos, and the more I watch the more I realize you are the best on RUclips. No filler, no bs, no sponsors, just straight honest to God info…and man, they’re really helping a lot
Thanks! Keep up the good work
Thanks, will do!
And he keeps his comedy short and sweet.
A short wise crack or a comical moment is fine every now and then.
He stays focused on the objective and not the entertainment.
Leave that for the Discovery Channel.
They have a knack for turning the most interesting reality shows into ridiculous comedy in a blink of an eye. I.e. Pawn Stars, Pickers, American Restoration, etc.
Thanks
They're helping a lot? We're gonna test that!
Check out aVe and his BOLTR videos
You sir saved me hours of reading unqualified opinions online! Your testing methods and results were perfect for answering my performance based questions! Thank you From Ohio!
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
I've read numerous reviews calling the Bosch GMS 120 a piece of shit that can't detect anything. This is why I always check here for reviews before trusting random strangers.
I can locate pipes, wires and conduit with a drill bit every time I drill a hole in sheet rock. Studs seem to elude me every time.
Same here I can literally drill every half inch for 36 inches and still miss the studs lol
😂
I know it seems a bit exaggerated but its closer to the truth than most realize
Agreed!
@@acexxxoasis you should see the mess of my ceiling. Yep 12 holes until I found the stud. Was the cheapest most accurate way ever.
Best stud finder was my ex wife when I was out of town.
Yeah, we know.
ouch..... that made me cringe lol
Sorry, didn’t know she was married 😱
lol
@@alpine9996 No prob, it makes us even with me and your mom....lol
“We’re gonna test that” I swear I get so excited when he says that
Thanks for watching.
😂 so relatable!!
Sometimes his videos make me want to play a drinking game. Take a chug every time he says brand.
Same
you gotta get a life.
If you decide to do a follow-up, we have really terrible walls here in the Northeast. I’d love to see a worst-case scenario test of how well these perform on horsehair plaster walls, as well as how many layers of drywall on top of each other there can be before they can no longer find a stud.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Seconded! As a handyman I am constantly up against old plaster and multiple layers of drywall.
@@ProjectFarm Third'd (?) - I run into a lot of Plaster and Lath walls in NE Ohio, and my higher-end Zircon works maybe 30% of the time.
I'd also love some plaster wall testing, I really need to find a reliable finder that works.
I see people on TV finding studs through ceramic tile and fiberglass shower surrounds. Call me skeptical, Could you add this to your testing? Thanks, love your channel.
Wow, you put a lot of time and money into making this video to help people choose the right scanner. Thank you for the excellent testing! A++
New here? Aha. That’s what he does best. One of the best channels on youtube. Wouldn’t think of buying anything without checking to see if he’s tested it first
You're welcome!
@@EazyFieldsports What I appreciate the most is the kind of tests that he has to wait a long time to get the results, like exposing zip ties to the outside for a year. That takes a lot of planning and commitment.
Next test, have a kid (I know he has a few) and report back 18 years later to tell us if it's worth it :)
@@ProjectFarm I own the zircon HD900 and you tested the A100.
Can you compare all the zircon models
@Throw Stone fr hes been ding this a while now. Everything I buy is based off of PF tests and reviews.
I love this channel! Im 19 and work in a hardware store as a student job and because of these videos, im able to inform customers more efficiently about which products are better. Thanks!
That is awesome! Thanks for watching.
This guy just builds a spare wall for testing tools. Some dedication there.
Thanks for watching!
And he painted it a nice blue!
A wall? Pssh! He does testing where he lets the product/item being tested sit for weeks, months and even a year. THAT’S dedication, my friend!
He’s entertaining without coming off as a know-it-all, his tests are about as scientific as any lay person could get without an actual “lab”and he lets the results speak for themselves with very little opinion or interjection. Best channel on YT.
@@WayneTheBoatGuy Textured, and let it dry for 5 days!
@@ProjectFarm Love your tests, not sure it helped me, still scratching my head to decide but appreciate your videos!
I was a maintenance tech for several years. Personally, I love the C.H. Hanson. It will find copper against the wall. Its the only one that will stay on the wall when it finds a screw. I like it alot better than the electronic ones. 100% accuracy and it's cheap. I've had the same one for years. It's attached to the roof of my truck and never moves. I've never had to replace batteries.
Tanks for sharing.
I have the Hanson as well, to supplement the Zircon. I often use them both simultaneously.
I like the Hanson too. It’s a little annoying having to find the screws but it’s dead on.
Same- love the Hanson. Small, reliable and no batteries or calibrating to mess with
I have one too and it's usually my first go to... however, the inherent problem with it that can't be avoided is that you are assuming that the drywall screws/nails are actually centered on the stud, which is absolutely not always the case.
i dont even have drywall, and will never used this product in my country, why i'm watching it? damn, you have a good video presentation to get my attention to watched it by curiousity.. keep the good job
Thanks so much!
Yeah same :) we only have concrete and blocks
@@Liftium Russia ?
The feature to test for PVC pipes and wires work through other materials as well. In fact I have never seen Bosch marketing mention drywalls. Here both these Bosch products are just marketed as a stud finder period.
Same pfp
I admire the simplicity, applicability, and unbiased nature of your testing. You put a lot into these tests in terms of both mental and physical effort. Glad I found your channel.
Thanks so much!
am I the only one finding this channel a great place to look for new products I never head of? 😄 excellent job man . big fan of yours
Awesome! Thank you!
Yes you are the only one in the world to find that.
Literally project farm reviews/ test and analysis carry the most weight when buying new tools, products etc. The effort he puts into every review to give you an absolute understanding on how every product performs is unreal.
There is one thing that a lot of people seem to miss when using the Bosch D-Tect 120: your second hand has to stay in contact with the wall while using the device. The manual says that and it makes a big difference. The only issue is: who reads manuals?
Is it something to do with grounding some kind of signal coming from it?
@@Erutan409 I guess so.
That is my experience as well, also I’ve had any issues with it being off at all.
@@Erutan409 Yes, its grounding of the unit, I was becoming really frustrated with both the GMS 120 & the D-Tect 120, but then I found out that certain wall coverings & paints seem to generate static when the scanner is moved across the surface, I place my free hand next to the unit as I move it across the surface, its stops the false positive readings (mostly incorrectly identified electrical cable).
No you cannot ground it, the unit is plastic and Drywall/Sheetrock is not grounded. The unit uses a sonar sensor so by putting your hand you provide a boundary for the sonar but other units do not require this so it seems odd.
I wouldn't necessarily even mind seeing another round with different variants from the same manufacturer. I'll give you an example you go into Home Depot to pick up a stud finder and there must be a half a dozen different types from Zircon alone.
How much does price make a difference within the same brand name? We got a little bit of a sample of that with Bosch but I wouldn't mind seeing more.
Another great video! Thank you for all the time and effort you put in.
I bought a Zircon StudSensor e40 on sale a few years ago.
After watching this video, I wonder how well the live electric warning works.
I have a Zircon... model number not at my fingertips now, but it was the $40ish version. Has been incredibly accurate including finding live wires.
I think I paid around $10, and saved about $5 or $6.
I've owned 2 different Zircon units and neither could find the studs in my walls. Its maddening. Asked a buddy to borrow his which was a Zircon as well and his was junk too.
BIG TIP - I’ve been in construction most of my life and I’m 59 now. So I’ve owned a lot of stud finder’s and after going through electronic warfare training in the military, I finally understood how they work so I put out a video about it and it is exploding on my channel because it’s helping so many people. Just search my channel for how to use a stud finder and you should find it.
As someone who has wall mounted a lot of televisions, speakers and shelves, I would definitely say Zircon is the best overall. I've got an older Zircon unit, I just find the edges, mark the center, it's never missed once.
Thanks for the feedback.
Same here...my dad has a 15 year old unit...I bought a zircon 4 years ago....both work fantasic.
Agree. I have the basic Zircon model that just has a light that tells you where the stud edges are. No idea how you could get a better and simpler product for what it cost ($10 bucks maybe?).
Me too love my Zircon, but also appreciate the franklin for not having to calibrate it.
Any luck with plaster?
I've always found the best stud finder is in the bathroom above the sink.
lol Thanks for watching.
Lmao!!! I gotta use that
You said what I was thinking... But better. You stud. Lol
😂😂 these jokes come up so much at work
Without a doubt you are the best channel on RUclips for honest, thorough, and no "BS" or filler to your videos. I love watching all your tool and equipment reviews and they are very helpful when trying to buy a tool or piece of equipment related to the garage or home. I am also a car detailing enthusiast and a lot of your videos relate to that endeavor as well so thanks for what you do sir and for bringing this information to the masses out here in RUclips land watching these informative video tool and product reviews. Happy Holidays and looking forward to your videos in the future!
Thanks so much! Happy Holidays!
Let's see the most accurate laser levels and laser measurers!
Great video idea! Thank you
I just mentioned carpentry levels! Let’s combine the two!
@@ThatOddGarage it be interesting to see if an empire level is just as good as a Stabila
This has rapidly become one of my favorite RUclips channels. Not often will you find a content creator that not only provides fantastic content, but still takes the time to respond to comments, especially when the channel has over a million subs!
Wow, thank you!
Same here, anything I buy I check with this channel first to see if WE HAVE TESTED THAT
As usual well done, professional, never boring and quick pace editing. You’re good dude. Very good job.
I appreciate that!
Good? He's the reason youtube was reinvented. The man needs a beer.
I have a house with 145 Y.O. plaster walls with layers of paint and nonstandard stud depths + spacings,and 90% of stuff finders are totally useless at telling the Lathe vs. Stud or even seeing through the thickness of the plaster.
It's a huge pain. Getting a deep dive test with some 1" thick plaster and 1/4" lathe walls would be WONDERFUL! It would also be a huge help to a LOT of us restorationists and owners of old colonial and Victorian homes (most of Philadelphia, NYC, Boston, Richmond, Alexandria, D.C., Charleston, Detroit, Buffalo, Memphis, &c.
I am GPR certified through GSSI for concrete scanning. I wouldn’t mind seeing a concrete scanning vid BTW! I used the GSSI structurescan mini to scan drywall with and it is super accurate! It’s made for concrete up to 16 inches deep and can do a grid scan for a 3D model of the scan. You can rent them instead of purchasing them because they are very pricey! But if you were wanting the most expensive scanner it may do the trick! Love the vids!
-
Great suggestion! Thank you.
Milwaukee has one, very expensive too, I would love to see that too.
@@patrickjames3321 I thought their's was discontinued years ago along wit h the bosch equivalent. I was under the impression the company that had the actual tech no longer wished to license it out to be rebranded anymore
@@gander13189 damn, it must be using radiation for detection
Have that Zircon, this test makes me happy with my decision to buy it a few years ago when I bought my house. Been working well ever since
Glad to hear!
Try the L550
Best ever made!
Seems to have been replaced with the A200 which is twice the price :(
i520 is what I use, has switch for normal, deep scan, metal and ac scan
If you ever tried to fix a wire you hit because your detector didn’t find it while your client (or your wife😁) yells at you, you’ll regret not buying the bosh. I went down that road and got the german thing some years after i had others 🙈..
I’m not sure how you’d test them, but how about shop hand cleaners like Fast Orange, Lava, etc?
Thanks for the video idea.
Include Prosoap in this one.
Also new motor oil to clean hands
@@backwoodsbilly8548 No, no, no...WD40!
Have to include gojo too
I've had my Zircon A100 for over a decade and it's hands down the best for the money! For the features like deep scan and the "laser", accuracy and ease of use, I haven't found anything that can touch it for even double the money.
Thanks for sharing.
This video doubled down on my choice for years - Zircon 1100 from HomeDepot
Great review, but hears a thought, many old homes have .75” of plaster over lath or .5” of plaster over blue board. I live in the latter and have never been able to find a stud finder that works well through thick plaster 😞😎
Walabot plaster/concrete mode might work
The Franklin T13 works great at my house. I have what is called Kal-Kote. It is a plaster type of product and cheap stud finders do not work for me.
@@AnthonySomes never seen a challenge yet my Wallabot couldn't handle.
After removing enough lath and plaster to make me consider changing careers and learning that forgotten trade just to save others from the removal process, there should be enough nails running up the studs that a good magnet can pick them up.
My in laws have a 1856 farm house. Finding the true 2x4 solid oak studs is impossible without just cutting into it. Sucks.
Can't believe he didn't do the 'Dad joke'. Admirable restraint!
I can’t not point it at myself and say “ found one!”
Thanks for watching!
@@mraycgz I go the opposite direction - point it at my brother-in-law and say, "No reading."
Well I can never get these to work because I set them off all the time 😆
What a bunch! 😂
I have both the most expensive Zircon that Lowes was selling 3 or 4 years ago (model?) and a Franklin T13. In everyday use the T13 kicks Zircon butt. But neither are any good for thicker walls, like tile or plaster, or at finding floor joist through finished floor... something I sometimes need to do. Find one that will find floor joist under a finished floor or studs through vinyl or Hardie board siding on the outside of a wall that doesn't break the bank and I would be interested! Thanks for the entertaining and informative work you do!
I agree, the Franklin is a better tool, but has it's limitations.
There is definitely something to be said for the no need for calibration if you use it very often, as I do. I will stick with my T13 until we get xray cameras.
I don't know what you define as not breaking the bank aka what your budget is... But the Bosch d-tect 120 does everything you need. It detects up to a depth of 120mm / 12 cm / slightly under 5 inches
Thanks for the video idea.
Thanks for sharing.
Now what I'd like to see would be the same test again, but this time with old-style lath and plaster rather than drywall. My limited experience is the extra plaster density and wood lath make it so most stud finders either decide the whole wall is a stud, or decide there are no studs.
Thanks for the suggestion.
My recommendation is including a couple insulation types to see if they have any impact.
Hey can you test electric pressure washer?
And how they hold up. I've killed a few if the smaller ones
Thanks for the suggestion.
This!
I've had a kartcher for a long while same company that power washed Mt Rushmore I like it
I've been using the Franklin T13 for a few years now. I've been very happy with it, and it's done much better than the two Zircons, a Stanley and a Black and Decker I have used in the past. I renovate houses for a living, so I use these things frequently. Thanks for the videos. I enjoy your channel a lot.
You are welcome! Glad to hear!
Great channel. You help us make good decisions.
Franklin > every other stuff finder
Would you recommend the Frankling T6 as a more affordable for option for homeowners/DIYers? Or is it better to pony up for significant benefit?
@@PongoXBongo I have a T13 and it appears the T6 is just a shorter version: T13 is THE Best.
You are my go-to for tool, glue, etc. comparisons! I really appreciate your consistent scientific method to compare things in multiple different ways (and multiple times for repeatability (esp with the glue review)). I know it takes effort to set it all up, but I don't know of any more thorough reviewer/tester out there. Thanks very much!
Thanks and you are welcome!
I'd be very curious to see how walbot or similar smart phone wall scanners would do
There are different walls that I've encountered that REALLY make it challenging for the stud finders.
- thicker drywall
- 2 layers of drywall.
- lath and plaster walls.
- plaster over drywall.
I hate most stud finders that I've used, but I find the Franklin to be the most helpful for the thicker walls, though they don't sense them perfectly either.
Thanks for sharing.
Insulation behind the drywall is tricky for the stud detection.
It's like you are reading my mind at the moment with every test you make. All the tests i have been waiting for. Premium content!!
Awesome! Thank you
I love that Zircon, been using them for several years, I've got one in my home toolbox and one on my work truck and it's never let me down. The only time I ever hit a wire with a drill was when I didn't grab it off the truck. Thanks for the amazing videos!
You are welcome!
Manufacturers are gonna use "This product is Project Farm certified" someday.
That video he did of the trim restoration products the "winner" of that test is already blasting it all over social media....
@@hallmarksdetailingllc8078 I wouldn't do that product now because they won, and quality will probably come down now that they know they won.
For sure. Look at Rotten Tomatoes and certified fresh on commercials.
50x more accurate than consumer's distort.
@@nunya___ not many got this. Hilarious 😂
If I bought every cool thing you reviewed I'd be a very poor man with a lot of cool stuff.
Hi David, lol. Yes, burnng a hole in my pocket, and I'll need to test "credit card finders" soon. Have a great week!
Great for present shopping tho! 😁
Speaking of the stuff, what do you do with the tested products when you're done? eBay?
There's something about how he says "We gone test that" makes me feel good, yes reveal the lies :)
Thanks for watching!
Same here! 😆 stick it to them PF!
It almost sounds like a recording and he uses the same clip lol
Best channel on youtube by far. I own an old house with nothing but lath and plaster. Best results for finding studs is to detect the small finishing nails that are used to secure the laths. The magnetic ones work really well and was able to find them well with the cheap Amazon one using metal mode (Model TH510)
Thanks for the feedback.
It claims it can find live wire
Me: let me hear it
Project farm: we’re gonna test that
Me: yes👏🏼
Thanks for watching.
Would like to see this same test done on lath and plaster walls.
Thanks for the suggestion.
That's the real test. Finding the stud in drywall is easy. Lathe and plaster is a pain in the ass. Nothing really seems to work consistently
i want a scanner to see a live wire located behind a brick wall.
@@ProjectFarm this would be great
I've lived in both kinds of houses. Unfortunate truth time: If you've got sheetrock walls, 99% of the stud finders will work instantly and identically (most people just bang on the wall). If you've got plaster and lathe, virtually everything is useless because the industry can't/won't make a cheap instrument that works on P&L.
I've actually bought that exact model DeWalt in the past (along with several others) and all of them were completely or mostly useless on plaster and lathe. I ended up needing to borrow a professional model from a friend that was specifically rated to work on plaster & lath (MSRP $320).
This fellow deserves every bit of whatever success he attains, here. He is extremely honorable in his ways and very thorough..
Thanks!
If you ever decide to redo this test (though it'd be a lot of work), it'd be nice to test these against traditional lath-and-plaster walls as that's the real ultimate test of any stud finder (and for those of us with old houses, it'd be a godsend to find one that actually works!).
Thanks for the suggestion.
Straight up I got so frustrated with my lathe and plaster walls I just bought a scope. I drill one hole, stick in the scope, turn on its light, and because our walls are hollow - I can visually see everything!
Try the Bosch GMS 1220
not that it's a practical suggestion in most cases but a decent sensitivity thermal camera makes an incredibly good studfinder, i've got some old firefighter cams i use for it and it works great when normal stud finders just don't work in my 1910's house, doesn't work as well with mildly insulated walls but does work well with super well insulated walls (the studs are just worse insulated instead of better)
It would be hilarious if you also tested “guy who uses knuckle” vs stud finders...
lol Thanks for the suggestion.
Better get one of those "old school" carpenters for the test.
It's a valid technique if you have a good ear.
LoneWanderer360 only on wood studs w/ standard drywall, & if you're sure there's no live wires in your workspace.
or tapping your hammer on the wall.
being a carpenter all my life, even before i got into the trade.. it doesn't matter the stud finder i tried to use.. the darn things just kept beeping as soon as i picked one up.. :D
Thanks for sharing.
I don't care who you are, that's funny
You may have an over-abundance of hemato-crit. Consider donating blood more often to test.
Will be waiting for your results.
The comprehensive chart with your history of tested products is awesome! Thank you for your hard work and dedication to unbiased review.
Thanks so much!
Came to check out which stud finders actually work. Was not disappointed.
I just dumped my Crapsman stud finder and bought a Zircon.
THANK YOU!!!! Excellent scientific process. Solid recommendations. Love this channel.
Thanks so much!
I’m curious if insulation would affect the stud finder especially if the whole stud bay is filled with spray foam.
Thanks for the video idea.
Good question. I wonder what the inductive profile of spray foam would be when compared to structural wood.
Yes. It has a DEFINATE impact on some studfinders rendering them useless depending on the machine and the density of the insulation.
@@ProjectFarm If you do insulation, please consider using Rockwool as one of your insulation products. I've found that to be about the most flush and dense insulation out there if properly installed. It can definitely play havoc with some finders!
That's why for just finding studs alone, I think the magnetics are the most reliable and easiest to use. But I'm fascinated at what they say a Walabot can do...... Hype or a real tool?
@@brianjensen5200 CCF is very dense, but not always finished flush with the stud. To get max value, CCF can have a gap between the face of the CCF and the stud face. OCF can be shaved flush with the stud, but is more porous than CCF. Some used a blown recycled material for a time that was dampened and shaved flush, but I've only seen that used in the NE some time ago. CCF if people can afford it and Rockwool are favorites today along with the more cost effective traditionals......
Modifying the test to include different depths of sheetrock and even lathe would be beneficial. As a remodeling contractor, a stud finder can lie to you pretty easily when scanning over different substrates. Great vid as usual my good man!
Thanks so much!
Agreed. As a contractor, I only care about finding studs. Plaster and lath is definitely the trickiest, while any drywall is child’s play. The t13 is the best and fastest for drywall, but I’ve yet to find a sensor that can reliably find studs and blocking behind 1” of plaster and lath. The gold standard would be a sensor that could find furring strips behind plaster on a masonry wall, like above a fireplace.
Sometimes the easiest is to use a thermal camera to see the studs, but I understand a $6K flir camera is out of the range of homeowners.
How about the best hand file, tested on metals of different hardness.
I pretty sure he's got a video of different files.
Thanks for the video idea.
@@ProjectFarm another somewhat similar idea, wood rasps, with different types of wood of varying hardness, and maybe at the end a torture test with metals.
@@tady5720 the thought of running wood rasps across metal is cringe inducing on several different levels.
Whenever I have to buy a tool or some kind of equipment this is where I come to for real honest results ... THANK YOU
I worked for Bosch and bought one of theirs cheap with employee discount, and it was crap. Im glad I didnt pay the insane prices they charged, and once again you proved what I had suspected. The top end Bosch found everything, but at an insane price.
Thanks for the feedback.
Bro, You have a shirt that says "Let's get this project underway. Now you need a shirt that says "We're gonna test that"
Great suggestion.
Id buy that shirt.
He absolutely needs to have a shirt that says that. Project Farm... "We're gonna test that!
I'll wear it while shopping at the big box stores when someone comes up to push a different sale.
Bro, haven't seen the channel? Check it out.
I’d buy one too!
Me too!
PF, I have a Zircon tester and built my two homes with it. It never let me down. And to me, being off on the edge of a stud by an eight of an inch isn’t a big deal. You usually just want to find center so you can hang a picture or install a shelf. Great video as always!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
@@dcgo44r You need a stud finder to locate studs behind the Sheetrock to install shelves, hang pictures etc. I don’t understand your question; should I have memorized every stud location?
@@davidstepeck2644 sorry it wasn't a question.. Me being me.. Builders usually leave the wall marked with white strokes where the studs are located! But you are ok.. Don't mind me! Lol!
@@dcgo44r The white marks you are speaking of is joint compound which covers the screw holes in the sheetrock. However, those “marks” get painted over etc. Haw a nice day!
@@davidstepeck2644 I know.. That's the moment to hang whatever you need, while you see where the studs are! 😂
The fact you're objective and not biased or paid for any opinions you have all my respect, liked subscribed and will watch all test videos before I buy anything new!
Thanks! Thanks for watching and subscribing!
"We're gonna test that" should be a Project Farm T-shirt.
Great suggestion. Thank you.
Yes!
I would buy that immediately
I would buy one.
Project Farm.......
I wished that you had tried the “Wallabot”, it detects everything behind a wall. It’s like looking through a wall and seeing studs, electrical, pipes, etc! It’s like an X-ray, only it uses rf signals.
Great suggestion. Thank you.
@Project Farm
I misspelled it, it’s actually Walabot. Google it and it explains the process of seeing through a hard surface. Wow, they have really dropped in price! Thanks, and love your show!
Walabot fails on plaster and lathe in oooold houses. We have one at work and for testing brought it home to test. Works great on drywall though.
I'd like to see this as well...
@@markkayser426 I have an old house with lathe and plaster walls and bought a Walabot to 'see' into the walls. I was quite disappointed that it didn't work as I saw nothing in their advertising noting otherwise. I do see that they now have a model that can look into lathe and plaster walls but I haven't bought one as I still have a bitter taste in my mouth from my experience with the first one I bought. That and I have paneling over the plaster and worry that will interfere.
A buddy of mine with plaster walls said that he has had good luck using a zircon in deep scan mode to find studs, although the wire finding ability of the walabot was the biggest selling point for me initially.
I have to say the amount of detail and the setting up of these tests that you do are amazing. Thank you for the hard work you put in to these comparisons.
Thank you very much!
I love how in depth you go with your tests.
Thanks!
Hey, Project Farm I would be interested in watching an ultimate ratchet showdown. Compare Mac, Matco, Snap On, Pittsburgh, Tekton, Husky, Kobalt, Milwaukee, SK, and GearWrench. Thanks for all the hard work you do!
Great suggestion! Thank you.
I thoroughly support this. However, I believe I know which will win...Snap-on followed by Harbor Freight.
I like this one!
Thank you for this video! I own the Zertex and was happy to find out how useful it is...
But wow! It's hard to purchase a stud finder without any outside data to inform you as a consumer. YOU have really made it easier for people! Thanks!
You are welcome!
The best stud finder I’ve ever used is looking at where outlets or switches are, and or knocking on the wall. Lol
Edit: I should add, it’s obviously not perfect and won’t find things like pipes or wires. It is a great method in a pinch though.
Thanks for sharing.
'Old work' boxes laugh at you.
As a very experienced trim carpenter I can agree. I can find a stud by this method faster than a detector. Register vents on the walls is another great indicator. There is always king studs next to windows.
That's really cool
@@corepuncher Knocking still works.
Please test the Walabot 2 next round, it’s a bit expensive at $170, but it basically lets you see through walls. I’m really interested how it would do against some of the other more premium stud finders
I bought my walabot 5 yrs ago, it has not let me down yet. like thebfinding pioe and wire feature
I thought he would be reviewing it.. It's been out for a few years out now. I use to have the middle range ($) zircom and it's now on the trash! I do better with a small pilot hole!
@@nextprojectawesome9673 Why a pain for pros?
I can attest to the Walabot being very good. Its not as fast as some of these but it does the job well. I've used it on both lathe and plaster and drywall. Note it operates differently for each. For drywall its as advertised with the cartoon of the stud, romex, etc. (It can detect a critter supposedly.) For lathe and plaster its not so pretty. It gives you a zone "blob" that is the shape of what is below. So a stud is narrow rectangular-ish blob and a pipe is narrower etc. Think thermal camera. That said - it was very accurate and for old lathe and plaster that is nice to have especially if your house was pre-code or had an improvisational handyman.
Oooo. Looks like another good review. Costco sells a decent stud finder.
Thank you very much!
I’ve got a 4 year old Zircon that’s almost identical to the one you tested. I agree, it’s a great product and an amazing value.
Thanks for sharing.
@Pastork How is it with old walls, plaster and lath?
I've been using the Zircon for 15 years or more. It does a great job but I have to remember it does miss that left side on occassion. Great at finding the romex and the pvc too. My only "complaint" is having to press firmly on the side button. Also, a powerful magnet is great at finding the drywall screws and therefore the enter of a stud. Thanks for another great test video!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
I like the Zircon, however drywall screws are not always in the center of the stud.
Just picked up the Franklin Sensors pro model with the electrical detection. I was able to install some heavy duty metal shelving in my garage in just a few minutes. It's truly a joy being able to reliably see the studs in the wall and ceiling and know where the center is!
Thanks for sharing!
I love the franklin, it's so fast to find a stud and makes it clear when you are seeing stacked studs. I've also used the franklin but I found that it used the batteries very quickly, not sure if there's a way to test that but I've had the franking for 3 years and changed batteries once and for whatever reason the Zircon always seems to be dead when I go to grab it.
Thanks for the video idea.
When you find out he is gonna be a quality standard soon
Thank you very much!
Wouldn't be surprised, I use his reviews when i'mma buy something.
I’d be curious as to how they would preform in a plaster and lath format.
Me too!
Also walls with insulation in them.
Exactly, double layer drywall, tile, cement board etc...
Poorly. You'll need to do the drill bit trick or awl to find the first stud center then measure 16" over. That's hoping framing was consistent.
Old parged wood lathe walls don't work with stud finders.
The period where they put 1/4 to 3/8 drywall and parged with plaster and metal lathe to 1/2 to 3/4" dont work either.
Likewise. I'd love to see a test on 1940's style plaster and lathe.
So I was thinking about buying a stud detector, although my past experiences with them have been hit and miss. But after watching your video explaining that the magnetic stud finders look for the screws not the stud it finally dawned on me to use some of the neodymium magnets I have on hand. Absolutely worked like a champ. For some reason, I always thought mag stud finders were just for finding metal studs. I feel like an idiot for not thinking of this. Anyway, strong neodymium magnets for the win. I wish I figured this out 20 years ago! You just saved me 50$. Thanks as always for the great vids!
Thanks for sharing!
A great public service. Thank you for your fast, to the point, high quality, and thorough reviews!
Much appreciated!
Excellent review. Some of the most useful and entertaining content on RUclips.
I have had excellent results with Zircon.
I can appreciate your unbiased and thorough reviews.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much!
For hanging cabinets as a profession, my team and I all use the Hansen Rare earth magnet version. Slips in your tool vest and is durable. Yes, there are times a sensor is needed. Thanks for your test.
You are welcome!
Food for thought. One wall tear out and pipe replacement costs more than the Bosch Detect.
Thanks for the feedback.
Sounds like you've really screwed up and know what you're talking about. In over 40 years of construction I've never poked a hole in a pipe but I know I've nailed a wire or two.
@@mikeries8549 not me but the contractor did. All seemed fine but a hidden pipe in the second story floor got cut. Luckily he didn't charge me for the hour and a half of work and the ceiling was already coming out in that area. Wires that are stapled behind the wall would be a nightmare to replace or else you would have to put a random box in the wall or do the crumby thing of leaving a splice behind a wall.
@@mikeries8549 I put a screw through a water pipe in the wall in my garage once. Damn pipe wasn't straight vertical. Courtesy of decades of Southern California earthquakes. Thankfully the water shut-off was a few feet away at the water heater which would have made for very little water until someone opened a faucet upstairs.... draining the entire contents of that pipe into the garage.
Great test video! I like Franklin Sensors for simplicity, and find it quicker for locating exact centers. They have a new Pro M50 model with changed design shape that looks closer to other brand stud finders. They added electrical sensing and additional depth and is about the same affordable price as the T6.
Love all the test you do. I was curious if you would be interested in doing either a paint thickness gauge test or a gloss meter test. I detail cars on the weekends and always wondered how accurate those tools are, especially cheap vs high end. Thanks for all the videos you do, keep them coming.
Great suggestion! Thank you.
I am honor bound to comment every time I watch one of your videos that you have the most useful channel on RUclips because you test simple tools that matter a lot and no one else does. Bless you fam. Bless u.
Thanks so much!
Test engine flushes on some old engines, with lots of oil analysis to show what's actually being removed
Great video idea! Thank you
Perhaps also test oil from an old engine after switching to synthetic to see how much sludge was loosened
That´ll be a pretty long test run!
Which product family is better, the "add and use the car for a few days" or the "empty all out, fill with product and let idle for X minutes".
And how does the latter compare to an 80/20 diesel/oil mix in the same setup (which worked well for me the three or four times I did it to some of my cars)?
@@daftnord4957 scotty kilmer said that using synthetic oil on old engines is retarded and you shouldn't do it, they will run worse with worse gas mileage, synthetic oil was designed for new engines
@@sthenzel oil Olympics videos were quite a long and important series, we certainly need to know if flush is important or a waste
I love your videos and look forward to all of them. I appreciate the time, effort and resources you pour into them. They're very informative.
I've had the displeasure of needing to use a stud finder and the bane is plaster and lath wall in a 100 year old colonial (with wallpaper).
When using such a tool, one doesn't have the luxury of knowing what's behind the wall, and all detected junk causes confusing false positives. What I'd be interested in knowing is which stud finder can tell me where the studs are and differentiate them from wires, pipes, blocking, boxes, etc. Sorry if I missed it in your video, but if you have an unknown wall how reliably could you find the studs and not end up accidentally driving a screw into a water pipe? Do any of these clearly differentiate a wooden stud from all the other things? That's really what you need the stud finder for.
I'm not sure super sensitivity is a good thing.
I would love to see the walabot tested in a future round. It's quite different from a traditional scanner but makes some strong claims.
Thanks for the suggestion.
I was thinking about this too
Been using a zircon for a few years now when I do handyman work. Always very happy with my results.
Thanks for sharing.
Best stud finder I have found is a rare earth magnet lol it will find a screw or a nail real fast.
Edit: Also forgot to add if you don’t want to tear up the paint on the wall put a little self adhesive soft Velcro on it and it works great, has to be a good powerful magnet though.
Great point!
I was gonna post this i have a little half inch cube neo
maxerious brooks ya I usually keep one on me all the time, I have a couple of them that are a little smaller than a dime but if you got your fingers trapped between 2 of them I bet it would break your fingers.
Buy a $2.79 jar of quarter inch round rare earth magnets at Harbor Freight; use two of them to sandwich a piece of dental floss or string about a foot long; gently swing it around the area of wall you’re interested in, letting it skim the surface. Finds the nails/screws in no time.
The only issue i see with that is, you assuming the guy who hung the dry wall actually hit the stud. We both know that’s not always the case lol
you have certainly answered your call in life God bless you sir 🤙🏻
Thanks, you too!
Totally Thorough and In Depth
Really Fantastic Video like always
PF you are the Source and Better then Consumer Reports for testing in my opinion
Thank You 😊
I really liked this test. Thoughts for second version included plaster with lath, ceramic tile, metal studs. Installing handrails or shower grab bars are both tricky if on an angle.
Thanks for the video idea.
Perfect idea.
Also, coat and feather out the mud at drywall joints. They can add to that build up. I’m sure one or two of those stud finders would start to fail more tests.
Also, try multiple layers of drywall. This is regular in many Fire rated wall applications.
I have a bunch of these stud sensors: The WINNER: The Franklin T13. I got it at Costco (cannot remember how much(reasonable($25?))) It is the most reliable, intuitive and easy to operate; the 'bar' display gives a pretty good visualization of the situation. I had a situation where I was installing a socket box on a short (narrow) wall between a closet door and and a corner; I figured there was a double stud up against the door which was indicated and possibly a double stud at the corner. I used a very small drill bit to pierce every 1/4" or so, and found the T13 was correct, leaving me BARELY enough room for the breakout box. After cutting the hole with a drywall saw, I successfully installed the electric socket.
Having tried most of these with dubious results (average about 1/2"), the Franklin product is the one with some actual intelligent engineering, pretty white and lime green color scheme, and my go to tool (for finding studs).
Of course, my wife is pretty good, too...she found me (sorry)
Oh, and for when you absolutely, positively need to SEE what is going on, I use a cheap HD USB 7mm borescope cam to view on a laptop ($15 from AliExpress); has a built in variable, BRIGHT LED light in the end, and I tape the cord to a piece of thin welding wire which I can bend and manipulate while inside the wall. You only have to drill a 7mm hole (9/32") to ACTUALLY see what is in there.
Thanks for sharing.
Your testing always makes me want to try something new. I was gonna buy yet another zircon, but ordered the Tacklife instead. I’m loving my new gadget even if it isn’t perfect--at least I know what to expect. Thanks for your excellent videos!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
Costco sells a scanner, green in color, called Precision Sensors “ProFinder 550”. I’ve had good success with it locating studs and electrical wires. Once again, excellent video sir!
Have the same one and it is the best I have used.
I love mine. I think I got it on sale for really cheap.
Just bought one today and this video came out lol
Thanks for the feedback.
Came here for this comment. That's a great sensor.
Hey can you do some lawn and garden stuff? I would love to know what the best weed killer and the best pest control for lawns.
Thanks for the suggestion.
My stanley stud finder beeps all over my walls and very inconsistent. I recently hung a TV wall mount and found the studs moved every time I checked with the Stanley. Because I'd seen this video before, I grabbed a strong magnet and used that to confirm with the Stanley. I had to watch this video again to see which brand of finder I'll buy next. Love this channel!
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Would love to see how the Walabot DIY Plus does. Only works with an android phone though.
Yea, need to throw Walabot into the test pool. For a while, they were certainly the most prolific marketer. Otherwise, a great review as always!!
walabot and FLIR ONE camera
It was disappointing and I sent it back.
I have the first generation Walabot, it also gives me false positives for stud location sometimes
I also would love to see the Walabot tested along with another round of stud finders. I only trust you Todd, go Project Farm!
PROJECT FARM for Nobel Peace Prize and Congressional Medal of Honor, change my mind.
Damitsall I second this... the hero we didn’t know we needed
I third this
As others have suggested, the Wallabot should’ve been included; I’ve had mine for over five years and even when I need a large screen phone to use it I love it because it finds 99% of all wires, pipes, plastic tubing, etc.
Good point for round 2.
I suddenly added the Franklin Sensors T6 to my Amazon cart. Thank you. This is a simple and easy stud finder I've been looking for.