This article is from 2021 and may be outdated. We're working on restoring a newer version.
Most EMF detectors are designed to help people measure unhealthy levels of EMF energy. You’d use one to check electrical equipment like computers, microwaves, and wiring in your basement.
Ghost hunters need specialized EMF devices.
K-II meters were among the first highly acclaimed EMF detectors used by ghost hunters. The K-II is still one of my favorites. It’s sensitive and easy to use. However, I’ve discovered inconsistencies among K-II meters. Big inconsistencies.
Two identical K-IIs can respond completely differently. I borrowed one from Grant Wilson (formerly on the “Ghost Hunters” TV series) and his worked great. It seemed to detect all kinds of subtle, anomalous energy.
Since then, I acquired another, identical K-II. After nearly two years of testing, it’s not sensitive enough.
Starting in 2014, I’ve used a Ghost Meter Pro. (Don’t laugh. I’m serious.)
Yes, it comes in an “As Seen on TV!” package. That’s more than a little shady.
So, I can’t vouch for consistent quality. I might have an extraordinarily good one.
I also have an Ovilus III. Likewise, it’s a good meter, but it cost me about five times as much as the Ghost Meter Pro.
(The Ovilus also does about five times more things. It senses temperature variations, and “talks” from a dictionary or using phonetic sounds. It does other things, as well.)
I keep going back to the Ghost Meter Pro because it’s so easy to use. Sometimes, the simplest tools are the best ones.
The best EMF meter is the one you use with confidence. It’s any EMF meter that produces good results for you.
You have many choices. Some EMF meters make noise, others have colored lights, and some have both. Many EMF meters have a dial so you can see the precise level of EMF you’re encountering.
For ghost hunting, make sure your EMF meter has at least one setting that is extremely sensitive.
Remember, a standard EMF meter from the hardware store may be great for seeing if your microwave oven is leaking energy. It probably won’t be sensitive enough for ghost research.
Read reviews and recommendations by other ghost hunters. Ask friends and team members if you can try their EMF meters. See what you like, and what works well for you.
Above all, avoid EMF meters that you have to watch all the time. The meter should be a tool, not a distraction.
You may find gently-used EMF equipment online at a reasonable price. Check sites like eBay for good, used equipment with a money-back guarantee.