CRAFTSMAN Stud Finder (3/4-Inch Depth)
Best for: Best for finding studs before hanging anything heavy — a simple edge-detection stud finder that locates wood and metal studs through drywall, wallpaper, and fabric. Under $14.
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Our review
Before you drill a single hole in your wall, you need to know where the studs are. The CRAFTSMAN Stud Finder is the simplest, cheapest way to do that — place it on the wall, press the button, slide it across, and it beeps and lights up red when it detects a stud edge.
The edge-detection technology locates both wood and metal studs at up to 3/4-inch depth through standard drywall. It also works through wallpaper and fabric coverings. The shock-resistant and water-resistant body is built for real-world job site conditions.
The technique matters: hold the button down before you start moving, press it flat against the wall, and slide slowly in one direction. Find one edge, mark it, then approach from the other side to find the opposite edge. The centre is where you drill.
The honest downsides: this is a basic stud finder — no deep scanning, no wire detection, no LCD display. 7% one-star reviews cite inconsistent readings and false positives, which are common across all budget stud finders. It requires a 9V battery (not included). And it can struggle with textured walls or unusual wall compositions. But for standard drywall at under $14, the CRAFTSMAN name delivers reliable basics.
👍 Pros
- Finds both wood and metal studs
- Simple: press, slide, beep = stud found
- Works through wallpaper and fabric
- Shock-resistant + water-resistant body
- Under $14 — CRAFTSMAN brand quality
- 24,000 reviews — proven tool
👎 Cons
- Basic — no wire detection or deep scanning
- Can give false positives on some walls
- Requires 9V battery (not included)
- May struggle on textured or thick walls
- Technique matters — read instructions first
Specifications
| Type | Edge-detection stud finder |
|---|---|
| Detection | Wood + metal studs |
| Depth | 3/4 inch through drywall |
| Surfaces | Drywall, wallpaper, fabric |
| Body | Shock-resistant, water-resistant |
| Power | 9V battery (not included) |
| Brand | CRAFTSMAN |
FAQ
How do I use it?
Place flat on wall, press and hold the button (do NOT let go), slide slowly in one direction. When it beeps and turns red, you have found a stud edge. Mark it. Approach from the other direction to find the opposite edge.
Does it detect wires?
No — this is a basic stud finder. It detects wood and metal studs only. For wire detection, you need a more advanced model.
Why does it give false readings?
Make sure the button is held BEFORE moving. Start the device while it is already flat against the wall. Moving too fast or starting in mid-air causes false positives.
What battery does it need?
A 9V battery (not included). Standard 9V batteries are available at any hardware store or online.
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