Best artifact detectors in Stalker 2

In Stalker 2, artifact detectors act as both a tool for locating valuable artifacts and a Geiger counter, to notify you of radiation levels. They can also help find Anomalies, which can make them an invaluable asset on the vast, treacherous map of Chornobyl. However, do remember that some detectors can only be acquired after progressing up to certain points in the story.

The four detectors available in the game all have their unique pros and cons, which can affect their usability and value on the ground. Below are the best artifact detectors in the game.

NOTE: This article is subjective and reflects the writer's opinion.

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The best artifact detectors in Stalker 2

1) Veles detector

The Veles is the best detector of the lot. (Image via GSC Game World || YouTube/@Etiam)

The Veles detector is the easiest to use in the game. When in the proximity of the artifacts, pull up the detector and a red dot will appear on the small screen, guiding you to the precise location of the artifact. This makes it very user-friendly and easy to use, with the only drawback being that it can only be acquired later in the game.

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2) Bear detector

The Bear can help determine direction and proximity without much issue. (Image via GSC Game World || YouTube/@Etiam)

Boasting a circular shape for the dial, the Bear detector will have different light bars that gradually fill up as you get closer to the artifact on the map. This can also help determine the direction the artifact is located in.

Once all the lights are glowing and the meter is full, the artifact will be in front of you. Despite having a slightly reduced range of detection compared to other detectors, its ease of use makes it a great choice.

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3) Hilka detector

Though boasting a long range of coverage, deciphering precise locations is tough with the Hilka. (Image via GSC Game World || YouTube/@Etiam)

A step down from the Bear is the Hilka, which simply has a numeric display on its screen indicating your distance from the artifact. There are no directional cues or aids to help you here, though one great perk of this is its ability to start detecting artifacts even from a distance of 100 meters. While not with the most user-friendly display, it is a definite improvement over the Echo.

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4) Echo detector

With a simple glow and beep, the Echo is rather barebones. (Image via GSC Game World)

The very first detector you receive in the game is the Echo, which is rather barebones. Unlike any of the aforementioned detectors, this one has no directional or distance metrics for you to rely on, as the only feature it has is to start blinking rapidly when artifacts are nearby followed by beeps. Paired together, they can be rather distracting, so consider an upgrade to another detector as early as possible.

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