Best Wooden Stud Finder Reviews 2023 & Buyer’s Guide

So you are looking to buy the best wooden stud finder, right?

Do you know how to choose the perfect one?

No worry. We are here to give you the right guideline. But before that, here is something for you.

Certainly, finding hidden studs isn’t as easy as it seems. If you follow those DIY tutorials on the Internet, you’ll certainly make several mistakes in the process. If you aren’t lucky, you’ll leave your walls like Swiss cheese. And that isn’t an option when you don’t have enough money to pay for future repairs.

If finding studs is a blind search for you, it’s time to buy the best professional stud finder. These devices use magnets and sensors to detect the density of different materials behind walls, floors and ceilings. They’re very cheap and easy to use.

With one of these, you won’t spend more than a minute to find the first hidden stud. Certainly, you’ll save a lot of time if you need to drill several studs in the same job. In this article you’ll learn how to choose the best wood stud finder according to your requirements. You’ll also find the 10 best models that everyone is buying this 2023.

Best Wooden Stud Finder 2023

Benefits of Wooden Stud Finder

Certainly, buying the best stud finder will make your household duties much easier. You’ll no longer have to use inaccurate techniques to find hidden studs on walls, floors and ceilings. Forget about using flashlights or magnets. One of these tools will take things to the next level.

Below you’ll find several benefits of using the best rated stud finders.

Versatile

Above all, the best stud finders are versatile, because they can detect:

Durable

Also, stud finders are durable, because:

Money Saving

In addition, stud finders help you save money, because:

Easy to Use

Above all, stud finders are easy to use, because:

Top 10 Wooden Stud Finder Reviews

Are you looking for the best way to find a stud? Don’t worry about that. You just need to buy the best stud sensor to get the job done. But you can’t settle for any cheap model you find on the market. If you want something good, you must do your own research.

Fortunately, you won’t have to work too hard to do that. Here’s the top 10 list with the best stud finders on 2023.

1. Tavool TH250 Stud Finder Wall Scanner

Certainly, the best wall stud finder on the market. Tavool TH250 uses 3 different detection modes to find wooden and metal studs, rebar, pipes and AC wires. Also, this tool allows you to find the center point of each stud to install TV mounting frames and pictures fast and safely.

Tavool TH250 is by far the best wooden stud finder on the market. It’s so easy to use and its ergonomic design fits to the shape or your hands. Its high sensitivity provides a more accurate detection in contrast with other models. However, it isn’t the most appropriate stud finder for concrete and brick walls.

2. VIVREAL VIVSF-01 Stud Finder Wall Scanner

It can detect steel rebar at 2.25 inches deep and AC wires at 2 inches deep. VIVREAL VIVSF-01 uses a LCD monitor to show you the proximity and material of the sought after object. Also, it emits a sound warning that lets you know when you’re near of the target.

VIVREAL VIVSF-01 is certainly one of the cheapest options on the market. You don’t need to recalibrate it each time you use it, which is very convenient. It works well on plasterboard surfaces, but its detection range is quite limited. It isn’t the most accurate tool of all, and it may convert the stud searching process in a guessing game.

3. Tavool 5-in-1 Stud Finder Wall Scanner

Tavool 5-in-1 Stud Finder is more accurate and consistent than other models from the same brand. Its Deep Stud Scanning mode allows a deeper searching on thicker surfaces. It also can detect live AC wires at 2 inches deep. Its LCD monitor and sound warnings allow you to have a clear idea of ​​the target’s proximity.

The LCD monitor also shows you when it’s convenient to change the batteries. By pressing a button, you can vary between 5 different scanning modes to find wooden and metal studs, pipes and wires.

With 5 different scanning modes, this tool certainly can detect whatever crosses its path. However, it isn’t 100% accurate and many times you could get a false reading. So, you must be careful when doing a deep scan with this tool. You may end up drilling your walls on the wrong point.

4. Merece Stud Finder Wall Scanner

The Stud Finder Wall Scanner from Merece is one of the best multi-purpoise stud finders in the market. It features an upgraded 5 in 1 stud sensor that can detect wood beam, drywall, joist, pipe, and live AC wire. It is also equipped with an LCD display that makes it easy to read. 

Furthermore, it has an edge center finding feature that makes it easy to find the center of the stud.

This product is professionally designed and very easy to use. Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, this stud finder should be perfect for you. And it’s ergonomic design will allow you to hold it at any angle that you prefer. 

It’s the perfect tool to use while installing shelves, cabinets and televisions.

5. Stud Finder Wall Scanner Wood and Metal Detector Sensor (ST100)

The eOUTIL Stud Finder Wall Scanner is a great option for anyone looking for an easy-to-use and reliable device. This stud finder is great for both wood and metal studs and can detect studs up to 3/4 of an inch thick. 

It also has a built-in 4-level light indicator and an audio alarm that lets you know when a stud is found. Its alarm lets you know when it’s time to stop scanning and start drilling.

This eOUTIL Stud finder can accurately locate pipes, studs, metal, rebar, and joists, etc. All you have to do is place this device on the wall’s surface and let it calibrate for a few seconds.

Once it detects the studs, the alarm would start beeping and you can then mark down that location. 

This tool can an excellent choice for those who are on a tight budget.

6. Franklin Sensors FS710PRO Stud Finder

It has 13 different sensors for more accurate results. Franklin Sensors FS710PRO doesn’t require previous calibration to start working. It also has a bubble level and you can use it as a ruler. In contrast with other models, Franklin Sensors FS710PRO has no monitor. However, it uses LED lights and sound warnings to let you know the proximity of the target.

In contrast to other products, this one doesn’t require previous calibration, saving your valuable time. It’s also versatile and easy to use. However, it has no monitor and it’s too expensive, considering its cheap design and fabrication. Certainly, you can find something better for less money.

7. Stud Finder Wall Scanner, ENGiNDOT

This Stud Finder from EnginDot is a 5-in-1 sensor that can easily detect AC  wires, ferrous metals, wood, pipes, and even non-ferrous metals. It has 3 signal lights that indicate where the studs are located, and it also has an alarm that goes off when it detects a stud.

The device comes with a unit change button that allows you to change the unit of measure from inches to centimeters. It also has a depth tracker that shows you how deep the stud is. Moreover, it provides accurate electric wire detection up to a depth of 2 inches.

You don’t need to manually press the button while detecting studs, this wall scanner will automatically calibrate itself. The light indicator will turn green once the calibration is finished. The light will change to yellow and then to red once it detects the stud. 

The EnginDot Wall Scanner is perfect for both professional and home use. It is very easy to use, and it is very accurate.

8. Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710 Stud Finder

In essence, it’s the same FS710PRO model but with a slight difference: it doesn’t have a bubble level. As its counterpart, it uses 13 different sensors to detect hidden elements inside walls, ceilings and floors. Instead of a LCD monitor, it uses LED lights as indicators. Best off all, it doesn’t require previous calibration. You just turn it on and it’s ready to use.

As said before, it’s the same FS710PRO model but without a bubble level. The basic features remain the same. The price is slightly lower than its counterpart. However it keeps being too expensive, considering that it doesn’t have an LCD monitor or battery level indicator.

9. VSTM 5-in-1 Stud Finder Wall Scanner

At first sight, it seems like the remote control of your AC unit. So, its design isn’t striking at all. However, its accuracy is something out of this world. It automatically calibrates when turned on. Also, it has 5 different scanning modes to detect wooden and metal studs, pipes, rebar and wires. It also can detect copper wires at 2.4 inches deep.

But, VSTM 5-in-1 isn’t just the best stud finder for plaster walls. It can also measure the relative angle between surfaces. Its LCD monitor also shows you when it’s time to replace the batteries.

VSTM 5-in-1 works as the best stud finder app and angle measurement tool. It’s so easy to use and it calibrates automatically after turning on. However, it may provide false results sometimes, so it’s convenient to pass the tool several times on the same place before drilling the surface.

10. The StudBuddy Magnetic Stud Finder

With a simple design and easy-to-use interface, the StudBuddy is our top pick for the best wooden stud finder. It uses powerful magnets to quickly and accurately locate studs in both drywall and plaster walls.

The StudBuddy is also one of the most affordable stud finders on the market. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers who still want a high-quality product.

This one has strong magnets that can easily find studs in walls. It is also very compact and can easily fit in your pocket.

This simple tool cautions you about the position of nails and screws behind the wall so that you can avoid them while hammering. That’s why we highly recommend it.

Buying Guide – Wooden Stud Finder

Finding wooden and metal studs inside walls without the right tools is harder than it seems. For example, you could leave your wall like a piece of Swiss cheese after drilling holes randomly. Certainly, you’ll have to spend some extra money on materials to repair your walls.

For those cases, the best stud finder on the market can be very useful. Stud finders use electromagnetic waves to determine the change in density between materials. This way, they can detect different objects behind the walls, floors and ceilings. Having one of these tools will help you save time and make precise perforations.

If you’re a contractor or an enthusiast of household activities, this is certainly the tool you need. However, you must be careful before buying. Many stud finders aren’t as good as they seem. Some have a too limited scanning range. Others are inconsistent, generating wrong alerts too frequently.

So, if you don’t want to regret after buying, you need to read this. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step explanation to learn how to choose the best stud detector for you.

Magnetic vs. Electronic

Basically, there are two different types of stud finders: magnetic and electronic. Each type works differently, but retaining the same main purpose. Depending on certain circumstances you must choose a specific type to work. Below you’ll find some valuable information about each one.

Magnetic Stud Finders

These models are the cheapest you can find. In contrast with electronic devices, magnetic stud finders aren’t so accurate. In addition, they’re virtually useless for finding wooden elements behind walls, ceilings and floors.

However, they’re very useful for finding metal elements such as fasteners, pipes, rebar and wires. The best magnetic stud finder doesn’t need a power source like its electronic counterpart. You just need to pass the tool over the surface and it will get stuck in presence of a metal element.

Magnetic stud finders are useful on thicker surfaces, where usually electronic models tend to fail. So, they’re the best to use on concrete and brick walls. Also, magnetic stud finders are lightweight and portable. You can always carry one of these in your pocket or keychain.

Best magnetic stud finders are made with small neodymium magnets. These magnets have a superior magnetic force, allowing detecting metal elements covered by several layers of material.

Best of all, magnetic stud finders can last a lifetime. So, you won’t need to buy several of these tools during your life or worry that they may stop working at a certain moment.

Electronic Stud Finders

These devices are much more accurate than magnetic stud finders. They need batteries to work, so you’ll have to spend money on new batteries from time to time. Electronic stud finders generate electromagnetic waves that bounce off different materials.

During the process of calibration, electronic devices must be placed on clear surfaces, away from metal or wooden elements. At this point, the device recognizes under which conditions not to issue alerts. So, the indicating bars on the screen disappear.

While you move the device over the surface, the electromagnetic waves bounce off constantly. If the material doesn’t change, there will be no alert. However, when the waves bounce on metal or wood, the indicating bars start moving while an audible sound gets out the speaker.

Electronic stud finders tend to lose accuracy when working on too thick surfaces. So, you may get false alarms when working on lath and plaster walls. On the other hand, when you work on concrete or brick walls, you won’t get any response.

Electronic stud finders are usually more expensive than magnetic devices. To bring a good model home, you’ll have to spend more than $50. Usually, more expensive models use more sensors for more accurate detection.

Scanning Modes

Electronic stud finders can have different scanning modes to detect different elements at different depths. In these cases, the rule is simple: the more scanning modes it has, the better.

Some scanning modes allow differentiating materials. You can also determine if there’s electrical current passing through existing wires. So, these tools are perfect for masons, plumbers and electricians.

In some models, you can vary between different scanning modes to get an approximate idea of ​​the distance between the surface and wooden studs. That way, you’ll know how long your drill tip should be to get to the stud.

Scanning Depth

Not all models can reach the same depth. Usually, more expensive models can detect more different elements and reach greater depths. If you’re going to use your stud finder to detect pipes and rebar on floors, you need more scanning depth.

Better models can detect at depths greater than 2 inches. So, before you buy, check how deep you can reach using the different scanning modes. If you need more, you’ll certainly have to pay more.

It’s always good to spend some extra money on a model that offers more scanning depth. That way, you can get accurate results even on too thick surfaces. If scanning depth isn’t enough, you won’t get any alerts from your tool, even if you’re above the target. In other cases, you could get false alerts, making you commit many mistakes.

Visual Indicators

Usually, electronic stud finders use two basic visual methods to indicate when there’s a target nearby. These are: LED lights and LCD monitors. Some users prefer LED lights for their simplicity. Some models use a different combination of colors to indicate the proximity of the target.

LED lights are very useful, but not so accurate. On the other hand, LCD monitors can display valuable information about the target. For example, its material, proximity and location of the center point.

Some LCD monitors include back lights that allow you to use your stud finder in low light conditions. So, the darkness of the night won’t be an excuse to stop working. Usually, LCD monitors use indicating bars to show the proximity of the target. The more bars you observe on the monitor, the nearer you’re.

On stud scanning mode, a small triangle appears on the bars when you reach the center point. The tip of the triangle marks the exact position. Other models emit a red light forming a reverse triangle on the surface.

Most models with LCD monitors also have a battery level indicator. That way you know when it’s convenient to change the batteries before it’s too late. If you don’t want interruptions in your work due to discharged batteries, make sure your stud finder has this valuable feature.

Sound Alerts

If visual indicators aren’t enough for you, you may need a stud finder with sound alerts. You certainly can work without sound alerts when you have LED lights and LCD monitors. However when they fail, sound alerts definitively can help you.

Some models can vary the sound volume depending on the distance at which they’re from the target. The sound becomes louder and more frequent while you get close to the center point.

Sound alerts also can help you find studs, pipes, rebar and wires when the LCD monitor doesn’t have back lights. So, if you frequently work during the night, you should opt for electronic stud finders with sound alerts.

Calibration Mode

Usually, stud finders use manual or automatic calibration. On manual calibration devices, the user must press one or more buttons to calibrate the tool. The process is quick and easy; however it can be tedious sometimes.

Most of the time, manual calibration devices tend to lose calibration when separated from the surface. So, you must repeat the process over and over again, making you waste your precious time.

If time is gold for you, you should opt for a stud finder with automatic calibration. In this case, the tool calibrates itself after being turned on. After that, the tool is maintained calibrated until it’s turned off. So, you won’t have to keep your tool attached to the surface all the time so as not to lose calibration.

Ergonomics

Above all, the best wooden stud finder must be ergonomic. That means that the shape of your tool must adapt to the shape of your hands. This way, you get a better grip and can handle the tool at any position without slip risk.

Some models include anti-slip covers to prevent accidents in case of sweaty hands. Others have curved edges for extra grip. So, if you have clumsy hands, make sure the model you’re going to buy is ergonomic.

Weight

If you don’t want to end up with tired hands and arms, your stud finder must be lightweight. Usually, the more gadgets the tool has, the heavier it is. Fortunately, most stud finders on the market don’t exceed 0.6 lbs.

To avoid problems, choose a good model with less weight. But don’t choose something too light, because you could end up receiving a piece of unusable plastic. As a personal quality control, check if the weight of your tool matches the weight stated on the product features.

If the weight difference is quite considerable, return the product immediately. It’s almost sure that you received an imitation.

Additional Features

Some stud finders come with additional features that you won’t find on any other tools. For example, some of them also work as angle measuring tools. You just need to place them on any surface to determine the relative angle.

Best models come with magnets built into the base. This way, you don’t need to use your hands to keep your stud finder in place.

Other models include a bubble level and you can also use them as rulers. These models are very convenient to make horizontal and vertical marks on the walls to install mounting brackets and cabinets.

And if you’re looking for something more precise, you may opt for stud finders with incorporated lasers. They include laser tips in a vertical and horizontal position to install several elements at the same level. Usually, stud finders with lasers are the most expensive of all. However, they’re worth any penny you spend.

Brand

If you’re looking for a new stud finder, you’ll certainly find many different brands and models on the market. With so many different options, it will surely be difficult to choose just one. However, you can reduce your purchase options by opting only for models from well known brands.

Usually, generic brands use low quality materials to reduce manufacturing costs. In addition, they don’t follow any quality control nor do they have the approval of regulatory bodies. Sometimes, you won’t find the manufacturer’s data anywhere. And that’s certainly a bad sign.

So, if you choose a model that’s too cheap, it may stop working after the first days of use. If you don’t want that to happen to you, save some extra money and buy a more durable and resistant product.

If you don’t know much about brands of stud finders, don’t worry. In this article you’ll know the 3 best brands on the market. If you choose any of them, you can be sure that you’ll take a high quality product home.

You can read more about stanley stud finder

Reviews

Many people are easily convinced by the good things they read on best stud finder reviews. However, most of the reviews you find on many shopping websites are fake.

For example, many online sellers pay other users to write good reviews about their products. So, if you find a product that only has good reviews, there are two things that you may think. Maybe the product is too good or is a complete scam.

So, to clarify your doubts, it’s better to visit other websites and read different opinions about the same product. A good sign that shows you that a product is really good is its sales volume. If the number of sold units remains stable for several months, the product is certainly good.

Maybe you find some bad reviews. However, if they aren’t too many, you shouldn’t worry too much. Some people have bad luck and receive defective products. And that can happen hundreds of times.

Check out the number of bad reviews and good reviews. Then compare both numbers and make your own decision. Also verify the reputation of the seller. If the seller is responsible and doesn’t disappear when something goes wrong with the product, you certainly can buy.

Price

Most of the stud finders that you find on the market have quite affordable prices. For less than $30 you can buy a pretty decent model. However, as said before, the lower the price, the lower the quality. So, stay away from too cheap products.

If you don’t want to take risks, invest some good money on a high quality product. So, take your time and investigate which models best suit your requirements. Then compare prices and determine which one suits your budget.

You can find different prices on shopping websites and physical stores. To get a clear idea of the actual price of the product, you can visit the official website of the manufacturer. Determine the average value of the obtained prices and then choose the product with the price closest to that value.

Never choose the most expensive or the cheapest option. You could end up terribly disappointed after buying.

If your budget isn’t enough to buy a sophisticated electronic model, you could save some extra money and opt for a magnetic model. If you’re only going to use your tool to detect metal studs, pipes, rebar and wires, you won’t need to buy something too expensive.

So, the final decision is up to you. Also remember that the more features the stud finder has, the more expensive it will be.

Best Brands of Wooden Stud Finder

Certainly, the market is full of different models of wooden stud finders. Some good and some bad. So, you must be careful before making the final decision. If you opt for generic products, you’ll certainly end up disappointed. Fortunately, there are 3 brands on the market that you can always trust.

Here you’ll find some valuable information about of these well-know brands.

1. Zircon

Zircon is a well-known brand of electronic appliances. Its headquarters are located in California, United States. It first started as a manufacturer of LED watches in 1975. Then, in 1980, Zircon developed the StudSensor, which is by far their best-selling wooden stud finder.

Zircon SS e50 is one of the most versatile stud finders from this company. It only uses 2 different scanning modes, but it works just as well as the more advanced models.

2. Franklin Sensors

Franklin Sensors is a manufacturer company of stud finders located in Meridian, Idaho. Its models are famous for their high portability and accuracy. Its founder worked for several years with the most prestigious high tech companies, including Intel, Samsung and Broadcom. Years later, he used his knowledge in electronics to develop the first instant stud finder.

Its FS710PRO model uses 13 different sensors to reach deeper than other products. You can also use it as a ruler. So, if you’re looking for something versatile and durable, choose Franklin Sensors.

3. Homder

Homder is an appliance manufacturer, located in Shenzhen, China. Its best stud finder can reach more than 2 inches deep, using 5 different scanning modes. So, if you need to find metal and wooden elements on too thick surfaces, this is certainly the brand you should choose.

Wooden Stud Finder FAQs

Certainly, after reading so much information you may feel a little confused. If you still have serious questions about wooden stud finders that need an urgent explanation, don’t worry. These FAQs and their answers can help you.

Q1. How far apart are studs?

Answer: Usually, studs inside a wall are separated at a distance between 16-24 inches. So, by knowing the distance between 2 studs, you can determine the location of the rest.

Q2. How to use a stud finder?

Answer: Using a stud finder is very simple. You just have to move the tool above the surface, using the visual indicators and sound alerts as a guide. When you reach the center point, the indicating bars reach their maximum level and the sound becomes louder.

Q3. How to find a stud without a stud finder?

Answer: Check the nails on the baseboard. Usually, these nails are attached to the studs. In the case of metal studs, you can also use neodymium magnets. These magnets are so powerful that they can find metallic elements more than 2 inches deep.

Q4. How to find a stud with a flashlight?

Answer: Using a flashlight, illuminate the surface and look for dimples or bumps. Usually, the nails that hold the wall to the studs are located at these points.

Q5. How do electronic stud finders work?

Answer: Electronic stud finders generate electromagnetic waves that detect the change in density between different materials. When the waves bounce on the sensors, they generate a certain response.

Q6. Can all stud finders measure angles?

Answer: No. Before buying, make sure this feature is included in the product.

Q7. Which is the best way to cut metal studs?

Answer: Certainly, using a good pair of tin snips is the best way to cut metal studs.

Q8. How do magnetic stud finders work?

Answer: Magnetic stud finders use magnets to work. The magnetic force attaches the stud finder to the surface when there’s a metal element below.

Final Verdict

Stud finders certainly make your life easier. They prevent you from perforating your walls randomly and also save your valuable time. Above all, wooden stud finders are practical, portable and cheap. You won’t need to spend a small fortune to buy one. So, this is the best time to take one home. If you follow each of the tips in this buyer’s guide, you’ll certainly find the model you really need.