7 best stud finder for android phones

A stud finder for Android phones is a tool that leverages the capabilities of your Android smartphone to help you locate the studs or wooden framing behind the walls of your home. These apps utilize the built-in sensors and hardware of your phone, such as the magnetometer or gyroscope, to detect changes in the magnetic field or orientation caused by the presence of studs. Here's what you need to know about stud finder apps for Android:

  1. Functionality: Stud finder apps for Android work by allowing you to move your phone along a wall's surface.The app detects changes in the magnetic field or orientation as you pass over a stud, alerting you when you are near one.

  2. Types of Detection: Some stud finder apps offer different modes of detection, including magnetic detection for finding metal screws or nails in studs and AC wire detection for locating live electrical wiring within the walls.

  3. Accuracy: The accuracy of stud finder apps can vary. While they can be handy for identifying the general location of studs, their precision may not be as high as dedicated electronic stud finders or traditional methods like tapping and listening for hollow or solid sounds.

  4. Calibration: It's crucial to calibrate the app correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Calibration ensures that the app takes into account the magnetic variations in your specific environment.

  5. User Interface: Stud finder apps typically have user-friendly interfaces, often with visual and audio cues to indicate stud locations. Some apps may also provide additional features like marking and saving stud locations for future reference.

  6. Compatibility: Make sure the stud finder app you choose is compatible with your Android smartphone. Some apps may require specific hardware features to work effectively.

  7. Limitations: Stud finder apps may have limitations in detecting studs behind certain wall materials, such as thick plaster, concrete, or walls with multiple layers of materials. It's essential to understand these limitations and use the app accordingly.

  8. Cost: Many stud finder apps are available for free or offer a basic version at no cost, with the option to upgrade to a paid version for additional features or enhanced accuracy.

  9. Reviews and Ratings: Before selecting a stud finder app, you can check user reviews and ratings on the Google Play Store to get an idea of its performance and reliability.

In summary, a stud finder for Android phones is a convenient and cost-effective tool for locating studs or other hidden objects behind walls. While it may not replace dedicated electronic stud finders for professional use, it can be a useful addition to your DIY toolkit for home improvement projects and minor wall mounting tasks.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best stud finder for android phones on the market
  

Walabot DIY, Stud Finder In-Wall Imager, Cell Phone Wall Scanner for Studs, Pipe, and Wires, (Only Compatible with Android smartphones running versions 6.0 or above)

WALABOT

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Android compatible only - stud finder and wall scanner. Detects studs (metal & wooden), pipes & wires and movement Works on drywall. Sees 4 in / 10 cm deep into your walls Provides 2 different sensing modes – Images and Expert.

  • Detects wood & metal studs, PVC & metal pipes, electric cables and wires inside walls
  • Uses cutting-edge radar technology to see inside drywall
  • Scans up to 4 inches (10 centimeters) deep into your walls
  • Works with Android phones running Android 6. 0 and above with USB on-the-go (OTG).
  • Not compatible with iPhone and iPads and tablets

User questions & answers

Question: Where is this product made
Answer: I don't know the maximum thickness it can gauge, but it is totally Awesome for finding the nails in standard sheet rock thickness. An electrician used it on my walls to find the stud, and it was so effective, that I purchased a set for me. No more random knocking on the walls to find the studs
Question: Does this case fit the “New” T
Answer: I have 3/4 inch drywall and it finds the studs really easily, but I don't have carpeting. Guess you should give it a try, can't hurt. If it finds the tacking on the carpeted side walls through your carpet thickness, it might find the joists too! Best answer I can give you.
Question: Will this fit the M150 series
Answer: Nothing, I bought it and it was just one magnet. I contacted seller and they said they have only ever sold one at a time.
Question: What are the inside dimensions
Answer: Wow, they sure don’t make it very clear. I just one unit, and took about eight weeks to get it. Does work great though.

Product features

Avoid DIY drilling disasters & take your renovation projects to the next level!

Walabot DIY is a cutting-edge wall scanner that takes stud finder technology to the next level. Capable of "seeing" up to four inches into walls, it uses radio frequency technology to provide users with the location of studs, plumbing pipes, electric wires, and other objects hiding inside walls.

The Walabot Difference

See it, don’t hear it! Other stud finders beep to alert you that an object has been found behind your walls without showing you whether the object is a stud to drill into or a pipe or wire to avoid? Now you can be safe with the Walabot DIY. Only Walabot uses cutting-edge radar technology to allow your smartphone to show you actually what is behind your walls.

Walabot DIY Wall Scanner

Walabot DIY is paired with an Android phone (see specifications for details) to produce a visual image of what is inside drywall and lath & plaster up to 4 inches (10 cm) deep. Your Walabot detects metal studs, wood studs, wires, pipes and can even find pests by showing movement behind walls. Walabot can be used by contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and those in need of advanced wall imaging capabilities. The advanced technology is also perfect for ambitious DIYers and those who want real-time visual images of what is behind a wall. It can show users what is in their wall in multiple modes (Image mode and Expert mode).

Image Mode: A visual image of metal and wooden studs, pipes, and wires.

To use image mode, hold the Walabot against the wall, calibrate and scan the wall. Walabot’s Radio Frequency technology will analyze the objects and using artificial intelligence, translate the results into images which are identified as wooden studs, metal studs, pipes, and wires.

Expert Mode: See the raw radar signals from the Walabot sensor

To use expert mode, hold the Walabot against the wall, calibrate and move over the objects seen in Image mode. Expert mode gives a direct view into the unfiltered Radio Frequency images. This image can show location in more detail, curves in pipes and wires, the intersection between two objects, pest movement in real time and can be used to confirm objects found in Image mode. You can focus the expert mode by managing the intensity bar to better see the objects.

Which phones work with Walabot?

COMPATIBLE: Android phones with O.S. 6.0 and above with on-the-go (OTG).

NOT COMPATIBLE: iPhones or tablets.

Once connected to your phone via the included cable, place Walabot DIY against the wall, calibrate and then start scanning to detect pipes, wires and studs. Check the app store for free updates and upcoming features.

*If you are not sure what operating system your Android phone uses or if it has OTG, see the video listed in the image gallery above for a short walkthrough on how to identify this on your phone.

In-Wall Imager – For home remodeling, renovation and construction

Walabot DIY Wall Scanner



The Walabot Multifunction Wall Scanner uses Radio Frequency (RF) technology to provide advanced detection capabilities. The tool is a cutting edge device which is paired with an Android phone (see specifications for details) to produce a visual image of what is inside concrete and drywall up to 4 inches (10 cm) deep. It can show users what is in their wall in multiple modes (Pan mode, Image mode, and Expert mode).



The Walabot detects metal objects, wood studs, wires, pipes and can show movement behind walls. Walabot can be used by contractors, electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and those in need of advanced wall imaging capabilities. The advanced technology is also perfect for ambitious DIYers and those who want real-time visual images of what is hidden within a wall.



COMPATIBLE SMARTPHONE

  • Most Android phones running Android 5.0 and above, with USB On-The-Go (USB OTG)


KNOWN INCOMPATIBLE SMARTPHONES:
  • iPhone, iPads
  • Tablets
  • Blackberry, Asus Zenfones, HomTom, Vodafone, Kyocera, Alcatel, BQ, Moto, Samsung Note 7, Pixel 2 XL, Xperia and LG G4


 

Cutting Edge Technology Transforms Your Smartphone into an Advanced Wall Imaging Device
Learn to Use the Walabot
Walabot's Multiple Modes Work Together: Pan Mode, Image Mode and Expert Mode

                        Step 1:



Pan Mode:
Panoramic view of a full wall line, with distances.



To use pan mode, hold the Walabot against the wall, calibrate and scan from one side of the wall to the other. Pan mode will show an image of objects within the wall and approximately where they are located. Pan facilitates a quick overview of where studs are placed in the wall.



Different>


Each type of object will be defined by the stripes and can be used for future reference in either Image or Expert mode.

Stud Finder Sensor Wall Scanner - 4 in 1 Electronic Stud Sensor Beam Finders Wall Detector Center Finding with LCD Display for Wood AC Wire Metal Studs Joist Detection

Tavool

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price
  • The Most Accurate Wall Scanner- Tavool specializes in stud finder for years and adopts the most Advance Sensors Technology for accurately & quickly locating studs wood metal AC wires! In all modes, this wall scanner always detect and indicate the Live AC Wire. Whether you are a professional, homeowner or a DIY enthusiast, you can find great use in this electronic stud scanner
  • 4 IN 1 Multiplication Plus Deep Detection - This digital wall scanner includes four different scanning modes for woods, beam, joist, metals, AC wires and deeply embedded objects behind floor, ceiling, wall. Stud mode detects wooden beams and joists in drywall up to 1.2 inches. Metal mode detects pipe , rebar, aluminum and copper up to 1.57 inches.Deep mode detects wood and metal parts located up to 1.77 inches while 85~240 volt AC current for voltage and live electrical lines up to 2.36 inches
  • Upgrade Design of LCD Screen - Displaying the Desired Stud Material As Well As the Precise Position of the Stud - The Tavool digital stud scanner features large LCD display together with the big sound to detect the accurate location of stud metal Ac wires. When find the material, the LCD display will indicate the direction and the intensity of sound tells whether you are more close to the target. The fast detection saves users time and efforts, making the task completion EASIER
  • Automatic Calibration and Ergonomic Grip for Comfortable Use - Turning on the stud finder and Completing Calibration. The automatic calibration before using provides users with maximum reliability and accuracy. Then put it on the wall. The wood beam finder will flash once it has picked up the edge of a stud.The ergonomic design of this wall stud finder makes it comfortable to hold from any angle
  • Professional Design with Top Quality - Tavool has been dedicated to Research and develop stud finders for many years, and we have a professional team and mature productions process. This stud joist finder wall detector can quickly locate the metal wood AC wire that are hidden in the walls, floors and ceilings of your house, help you find the exact stud while installing TVs, cabinets, garage shelves etc.

User questions & answers

Question: Is there an instruction manual online? I misplaced the manual that came in the box
Answer: Si puede solicitar un manual de instrucciones en [email protected]
Question: Will this locate studs behind bathroom tiles
Answer: If your tile wall has cement backer board, then this device will not work. If your tile is backed by sheetrock, then it will probably work unless your tile is took thick. I wouldn't trust it to locate pipes behind tile, so take care if you're working in a bathroom.
Question: Is the battery included
Answer: No the 9volt battery is not included.
Question: Can this detect a stud behind plaster walls
Answer: This tud finder can quickly locate metal, studs, joists, pipes, live AC wire behind all kinds of walls floors and ceilings but except the cement board wall, you can use it on popcorn ceilings, plaster walls, textured surfaces,etc

Product features

Stud Scan Detection

Deep Scan Mode scans through 2 layers of drywall up to 1.5 in. (38 mm) deep. DeepScan Mode is a higher sensitivity scanning mode that should be used when there are extra layers of wallboard or paneling. To minimize false positives and/or finding other objects further behind the wall that may not be a stud, always start your scan in StudScan Mode first.

Metal Scan Detection

Tavool wall canner will locate metal studs in StudScan, DeepScan, and Metal Scan Modes. Since Tavool stud finders are looking for a change in density behind drywall, not a particular material, in StudScan and DeepScan Modes the detector will react to metal studs the same as it would for wooden studs.

After you detect the center of a object, Please Use Metal Scan to determine if the previous reading in Stud scan was a wood stud, metal stud, or pipe.

Live AC Wire Detection

AC Wire detection indicates the presence of live, unshielded electrical wiring up to 2 inches (51 mm) deep. In all modes, this wall scanner always detect and indicate the Live AC Wire.

Note: AC Wire Detection works in both StudScan / DeepScan / MetalScan Modes. The AC Wire Detection Icon will flash when live, unshielded wires are detected.

Step 1:Calibrate the tool before every scan

After choose the mode, press and hold the scan button( on the side of the tool) to calibrate this tool. Wait for the reducing bars disappeared and beep to confirm calibration has completed.

In stud/deep mode, put it on the wall where you want to detect to calibrate it ;In AC/Metal mode, put it in the air to calibrate it.

Step 2: Scan the wall

Hold down the button, then move the stud finder along the wall slowly, if shake or lift the scanner accidently, the device needs to be re-calibrate.

The narrow on the screen togather with the beep signal alter, guides you to find the location of the stud.

Step 3: Find the location of the stud

When the signal bar is full and the beep alarm is loudest, it means you have found the center of an object.Mark it with your pencil.

Then choose the Metal Scan mode to test whether it is a metal. After you confirm that it is not a metal, it means that you found the center of a stud. (More details refer to the above description of "Metal Scan Detection")Then you can drill it to hang thing

CRAFTSMAN Stud Finder, 3/4-Inch Depth (CMHT77633)

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

CRAFTSMAN Stud sensor works on surfaces covered in wallpaper and fabric. Edge detection to help locate stud edges of both wood and metal stud.

  • Depth range of 3/4 inch through drywall, works on surfaces covered in wallpaper and fabric
  • Edge detection to locate stud edges of both wood and metal stud
  • Shock resistant and water resistant body for durability and long life
  • Takes 9 volt battery
  • Full Lifetime Warranty, refer to "Warranty and Support" section below for full details
  • Battery not included

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of batteries does this need
Answer: This unit takes a 9 volt battery
Question: is it a good stud finder for mounting a TV
Answer: No, it isn’t a good stud finder at all. Spend $10 more at Lowes for one that actually works.

CH Hanson 03040 Magnetic Stud Finder - 2 Pack

CH Hanson

Based on 711 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Positively locates nails and screws with powerful "neodymium" magnets. The magnetic stud finder works like magic. It sticks to the wall leaving your hands free--no batteries, no calibration, no lights, no hassle. It works on wood or metal studs and uses multiple industrial strength magnets to “Field Vector” the stud. This is the last stud finder you will ever buy. Simply slide the flat surface of the magnetic stud finder slowly across a wall in a circular or "S" motion until you feel a strong pull to a nail head or screw. Once you have the magnetic stud finder directly above a nail head or screw, let it go and it sticks to the wall. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which is [are] known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

  • Small and compact, easily fits in pocket
  • Powerful magnets allows hands-free use
  • 2 way level for ease of marking
  • No batteries required
  • Soft grip for easy grabbing and gentle touch

User questions & answers

Question: this sounds good for accurately finding the stud.but does it find the edge of the stud....can someone tell me pls
Answer: No. You're going to have to guesstimate. It only finds the fasteners used to hang the stud. What I do is find multiple fasteners with the magnet and draw a line. Whenever I hang something I put the screw on that line. Never failed me yet.
Question: Does this come packaged as 2 individual finders, or 1 packaged containing both
Answer: One Amazon package. Two individual packages inside the Amazon package. Each individual package has one magnet.
Question: Have you had any problems with these accidentally finding wires or conduits in the walls
Answer: Wires, no. Metal conduit, yes. However I use it in commercial spaces and it's obvious if it finds conduit. There's power or another receptacle type nearby
Question: Will they work on metal stud with 5/8 level 5 sheetrock
Answer: Yes they will. I use it for that purpose everyday

Stanley FMHT77407 FatMax Stud Sensor 300

Stanley

Based on 179 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The STANLEY FMHT77407 FatMax Stud Sensor 300 featuring a backlit LCD screen which clearly displays all of the sensor's readings, even in low light conditions. AC detection identifies live wires up to 2" deep, along with Wood & Metal stud detection through up to 1-1/2" deep surface material. Also features a deep metal scan what sense metal through up to 3" of material. Its One Pass center-find technology is able to locate the stud center. This unit also features auto-calibration. The marking channel improves accuracy of marking-out readings. New ergonomic design, and soft grips provide comfort and control of the tool. Uses 9v Battery, not included.

  • Sequential LEDs and audible beeps indicate reading
  • Marking channel with LED identifies target and makes marking surfaces easy and accurate
  • Color: Yellow/BLACK
  • Backlit LCD screen to display sensor's readying, even in low light conditions
  • AC detection up to 2" deep; wood and metal detection up to 1-1/2" deep surface material
  • Deep metal scan senses metal through up to 3" of material
  • One Pass center-find technology to locate stud centers
  • Auto-calibrating unit

User questions & answers

Question: How useful is it
Answer: hi, my dad wrote a comment on this last time and he isnt here right now, but he talked to me about it and he ended up throwing it away- thats how bad it was. it didnt work for him at all. hope this helps.
Question: Does this device work AFTER it has been properly calibrated as per youtube video
Answer: Nope. I've tried everything. I've even exchanged it for a new one. I have an old Stanley 77-110 basic model stud finder which still works and finds studs that the fay max can't locate. I thought I'd upgrade and had my son buy me the Fat Max for my birthday, big mistake. Google it and see all the other disappointed owners, this tool should be recalled.

Bosch Digital Multi-Scanner GMS120

BOSCH

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Know what's behind the wall before you take on that job with a wall scanner! The Bosch GMS 120 Electronic Multi Scanner finds magnetic and nonmagnetic metals, power cables, wooden substructures and even plastic pipes! An audible alert and illuminated graphical display gives you the information you need to proceed with confidence.

Bosch’s GMS120 digital multi-scanner provides detection of multiple materials, including wood, metal, and live wiring. Because of its versatility and consistent performance, it’s an ideal tool for construction, electricians, contractors, carpenters, masons, plumbers, and others who need reliable detection.

At a Glance
GMS120 Digital

Multi-Scanner

At a Glance:


  • Three available modes: wood, metal, wiring


  • Automatic calibration, automatic center finder


  • Detect steel at up to 4-3/4-inches deep in concrete


  • Illuminated display for mode, detection strength, and more


  • Audible detection signal with an on/off button
At a Glance
Bosch GMS120 digital multi-scanner

Bosch’s GMS120 digital multi-scanner has three detection modes and a bright LCD display

(view larger.)
Consistent Material Coverage

With its three modes, Bosch’s GMS120 digital multi-scanner is an aid in most situations, as its modes cover wood studs, metal objects such as rebar, studs, and steel/copper pipes, and live wiring. It has precise automatic calibration that makes use easier and an automatic center finder, which pinpoints the center spot of the wood or material that has been detected.

Deep Detection

The GMS120 has a deep metal detection feature, which allows a user to detect steel that is placed up to 4-3/4-inches (120 mm) deep in cured concrete. It has a maximum detection depth of up to 2 inches for live wiring, up to 3-1/8 inches for copper, and up to 1-1/2 inches for wood studs.

User-Friendly Features

Bosch’s GMS120 digital multi-scanner provides an illuminated ring that indicates detection status and an audible detection signal with an on/off button. Adding to the user-focused design, its bright and readable illuminated graphical LCD display indicates mode, detection strength, and more, making it simple to check the detection device and switch modes and tasks. In addition, its ergonomic soft-grip provides a comfortable grip that’s secure and safe.

Dimensions and Warranty

The Bosch GMS120 digital multi-scanner measures 10-1/4 inches by 3 inches by 6-1/2 inches and weighs .6 pounds. It comes with a two-year warranty.

What's in the Box

One Bosch GMS120 digital multi-scanner, hand strap, one 9-volt battery, and carrying pouch.

Bosch GMS120 digital multi-scannerBosch GMS120 digital multi-scannerBosch GMS120 digital multi-scanner
Bosch’s GMS120 digital multi-scanner detects multiple materials, has a user-friendly design, and easy detection status checking (click each to enlarge).

From the Manufacturer

Bosch GMS 120 professional multi material cable detector, complete with protective bag. The most convenient multi-functional scanner for construction applications. Includes: hand strap, 9-Volt battery and carrying case.

  • Detection: The Bosch GMS120 Digital Wall Scanner features multi mode laser detection for wood studs, metal objects (rebar, studs and steel/copper pipes) and live wiring
  • Performance: Features the latest 3 sensor laser technology, offering a wide range of detection performance of up to 4 3/4 Inch deep in cured concrete, up to 2 inches for live wiring, up to 3 1/8 inches for copper and up to 1 1/2 inches for wood studs; The accuracy of the product is 0.0625
  • Self calibrating: Includes 3 selection modes for wood, metal, and AC wiring; The GMS120 offers automatic calibration from the start and continues to self calibrate through the course of the project for easy and precise detection
  • Display: Features an illuminated graphical LCD display to indicate mode, detection strength, and more; The large detection ring flashes green for no object found, orange for object near and red for object found within the sensor range
  • Center Finder: This wall scanner includes a center finder that pinpoints the object center with an audible detection signal with an on/off button

User questions & answers

Question: Does it scan through stucco
Answer: I have not checked metal consume but it has metal detecting which you may use
Question: Can this detect rafters through asphalt and/ or metal roofing
Answer: The only requirement is good batteries. The unit worked well for me for installing a grab-bar in my walk-in shower.
Question: Does the GMS120 detects water pipers hidden in concrete
Answer: Yes. If she is a steel stud or a wooden stud.
Question: Does anybody know if the Bosch GMS 120 is exactly the same as the one sold in Germany. I need it to detect power supply lines (230V) and water lines in brick walls 50mm deep. Anybody has any info if these are made specifically for the US market
Answer: Hi there, Thanks for getting in touch. Please contact us for more customer support via email: [email protected]; phone: 1-8335065666. Best Regards, Customer Service

Product features

GMS120 Digital Wall Scanner

The Bosch GMS120 Digital Wall Scanner features multimode detection capability. The tool is able to detect wood studs, metal objects or live wiring in floors and walls, so users can figure out what they are up against before they start a job. It has a deep detection mode for pipe in concrete of up to 4-3/4 inches. Because of its versatility and consistent performance, it's an ideal tool for construction, electricians, contractors, carpenters, masons, plumbers, and others who need reliable detection.

Includes

digital wall scanner, hand strap, 9-volt battery, carrying pouch

Multimode object detection

The Bosch GMS120 Digital Wall Scanner features multimode detection. The user can find wood studs; metal objects, such as rebar, metal studs or steel/copper pipe; or live wiring in floors and walls. To remove worry, the scanner self-calibrates once the user starts detection and continues to self-calibrate during detection.

Informative graphic display

The backlit graphical display on the scanner indicates mode, detection strength and more. The tool provides easy-to-view and understand information. The large detection ring flashes green for no object found, orange for object near and red for object found within the sensor range.

Deep detection

The Bosch GMS120 has a deep metal-detection feature, which allows a user to detect steel that is placed up to 4-3/4 inches deep in cured concrete. It has a maximum detection depth of up to 2 inches for live wiring, up to 3-1/8 inches for copper and up to 1-1/2 inches for wood studs.

Center finder

The Bosch GMS120 Wall Scanner includes a center finder that pinpoints the center of an object. It includes a convenient marking hole for easy reference marks, and audible detection signal that switches on and off. It also has an ergonomic soft-grip that's comfortable to use.

The Job Just Got Easier

With Bosch laser technology, users are able to be more productive and more profitable – with greater accuracy and precision on the job site. By offering an extensive range of line lasers, laser measures, rotary lasers, point lasers, digital levels, optical levels and measuring tool accessories, Bosch is able to provide solutions for a wide variety of applications. With Bosch measuring tools users are able to work smarter, not harder.

SSI77-050 Advanced Stud Sensor,

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Detect wood/metal studs up to a 3/4" deep with the Stanley® advanced stud sensor. Features an LED display for studs and visual indicators on face of stud sensor for easy readability.

  • N/A
  • Detects wood/metal studs up to a 3/4" deep
  • Visual indicators on face of stud sensor for easy readability
  • LED display for studs

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