dTector vs Magnetometer X
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
dTector
This utility app transforms your iPhone into a magnetic field detector using its built-in magnetometer. It visualizes magnetic fields in 3D augmented reality, highlighting areas of strong magnetic flux. Useful for detecting ferromagnetic metals and understanding magnetic environments.
- Live magnetometer readout (µT and mG)
- Ferromagnetic metal detection
- AR 3D field mapping
- Sonar feedback (sound and haptics)
- Directional guidance
- Session logging and PLY export
- Apple Watch companion
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dTector turns your iPhone's built-in magnetometer into a magnetic field meter — then draws what it reads in 3D, floating in augmented reality. WHAT IT MEASURES Your device contains a magnetometer, the sensor behind the compass. dTector reads it continuously and shows the magnetic flux density around you in microtesla (µT) and milligauss (mG). Earth's natural field is roughly 49 µT. Bring the device near steel, iron, a magnet, a motor or a current-carrying cable and the reading climbs. AR 3D FIELD MAP Point the camera and walk. Using ARKit, dTector anchors every reading at the exact point in space where it was taken, then builds a live 3D map: field lines and glowing hotspots suspended in the room, right where the field is strongest. Save a map, come back to it, export it as PLY. FEATURES • Live magnetometer readout in µT and mG • Ferromagnetic metal detection — steel, iron, pipes, rebar, wiring • AR 3D field mapping with field lines and hotspots • Sonar feedback — sound and haptics that rise with the field • Directional guidance toward the strongest nearby reading • Session logging and PLY export • Apple Watch companion • Shake to recalibrate GETTING GOOD RESULTS Move slowly. The sensitive area sits near the camera, so lead with the top of the device. Take the phone out of cases with magnetic closures — MagSafe and magnetic flaps will dominate the reading. Shake to recalibrate whenever values drift. WHAT IT CANNOT DO dTector reads the magnetometer, and only the magnetometer. It finds non-magnetic metals such as aluminium, copper or gold only when they carry current strong enough to bend the magnetic field. It is not a radiation meter, not a stud finder, and not a replacement for a calibrated instrument. Sensitivity varies considerably between iPhone models. dTector is built for curiosity, learning and entertainment. It is not a professional measuring instrument and must not be used for safety, medical, occupational or scientific decisions.
Magnetometer X
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Transform your iPhone or iPad into a precision magnetic field and metal detector. No ads! Magnetometer X uses your device's built-in sensor to measure electromagnetic fields in real time, helping you locate ferromagnetic metal objects, find studs behind walls, and explore the magnetic world around you. THREE POWERFUL MODES Gauge Mode (FREE) A beautiful analog-style gauge displays magnetic field strength with instant visual feedback. Perfect for quick metal detection and general-purpose measurements. Wall Scanner Mode (PRO) A real-time scrolling graph helps you locate studs, steel pipes, and magnetic anomalies hidden behind drywall. Scan slowly across a wall and watch the graph spike when you pass over metal—no guesswork required. Scientific Mode (PRO) Built for students, researchers, and professionals who need deeper analysis: • Visualization of magnetic 3D field vectors and polarity • Separate X, Y, Z axis readings with total field magnitude • Compare calibrated anomaly vs. total field • Record data at 1 Hz, 10 Hz, or raw sensor rate (~100 Hz) • Export GPS-tagged CSV logs for field research KEY FEATURES • Zero Calibration – Set a baseline anywhere to detect relative changes • Multiple Units – Display readings in microtesla (μT), milligauss (mG), or gauss (G) • Audio & Haptic Feedback – Three sound styles plus tactile vibrations help you detect without looking at the screen (haptic feedback is not available on iPad) • Dark & Light Themes – Choose your preferred appearance PRACTICAL USES • Find wall studs before drilling • Detect steel objects in walls, floors, or ceilings • Identify magnetized tools • Educational demonstrations of magnetic fields • Paranormal investigation (EMF hunting) • Science projects and physics experiments NO SUBSCRIPTIONS Unlock PRO features with a single one-time purchase. No recurring fees, no trials that expire—just full access forever. IMPORTANT NOTE ON METALS: Magnetometer X detects ferrous (magnetic) metals like iron, steel, and nickel. It does not detect non-ferrous metals such as copper, aluminum, silver, or gold. If a pipe or stud is not magnetic, the sensor will not react to it.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is ads: Magnetometer X at none against dTector's shown. On price, update cadence, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. dTector sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and Magnetometer X sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.
dTector ships an update every 6 weeks, Magnetometer X every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on November 7, 2026 and October 28, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | dTector | Magnetometer X |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | 4.1 (7 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 33.3% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 7 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Every 6 weeks | Every 3 weeks — better |
| Ads | Yes | No — better |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch — better | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 18.0 | 18.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 8 MB | 7 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Immaginet Srl | Rok Dovecar |
In-app purchases
dTector
- dTector PRO$4.99
Magnetometer X
- Magnetometer X PRO$4.99
Questions
Is dTector free?
Is Magnetometer X free?
Do dTector or Magnetometer X have ads?
Which is updated more often, dTector or Magnetometer X?
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