FPID2100-vs-FPID2200-comparison
Buying Guide • Ferro-Magnetic Locators
If you've searched for the Fisher Labs FPID2100 Ferro-Magnetic Locator lately, you've probably noticed it's hard to find in stock. That's because it's been discontinued and replaced by the Fisher Labs FPID2200. If you're used to running the 2100, here's exactly what's different, what's the same, and what to expect when you make the switch.
| Spec | FPID2100 (discontinued) | FPID2200 (current) |
|---|---|---|
| Product type | Ferro-Magnetic Locator with Target ID System (TID™) | Differential Fluxgate Magnetic Locator |
| Detection modes | Normal + TID mode (distinguishes vertical vs. horizontal targets, e.g. manhole covers) | High Sensitivity Mode + Polarity Mode |
| Detection depth | Valves/curbs to 9 ft, survey markers to 8 ft, PK nails to 14 in | Up to 8 ft |
| Pinpoint accuracy | 1 in. of center for valves and curb boxes | Not published by manufacturer |
| Frequency | Not published | 4.9 kHz |
| Housing / waterproofing | Strong ABS plastic; submersible up to the handle grip (30 in.) | Waterproof up to the instruction label; rest of unit is weatherproof |
| Power supply | 1 × 9V battery | 2 × 9V batteries |
| Battery life | Up to 55 hours | Up to 16 hours |
| Weight | 2 lbs (0.9 kg) | 1.8 lbs (0.8 kg) |
| Overall length | 34 in. (86.4 cm) | 42 in. (106.6 cm) |
| Operating temp | -13°F to 140°F (-25°C to 60°C) | Not published |
| Warranty | 3-year | 2-year |
What You'll Notice When You Switch
The core mission hasn't changed — the FPID2200 is still built to find buried ferrous metal (curb boxes, iron pipe, manhole covers, survey markers, PK nails) with the same one-handed, Made-in-USA build quality Fisher is known for. A few things are genuinely different in day-to-day use:
- Shorter runtime per charge. The 2200 uses two 9V batteries but runs roughly 16 hours per set versus the 2100's 55 hours on a single battery — budget for spare batteries on longer jobs.
- Simplified mode names. "Normal/TID" becomes "High Sensitivity/Polarity" — the underlying goal (basic detection vs. distinguishing target orientation) carries over, but operators should expect a short relearning curve.
- Slightly longer, slightly lighter. The 2200 is 8 inches longer but a couple ounces lighter than the 2100.
- Waterproofing is stated differently. The 2100 was submersible to the handle grip; the 2200 is described as waterproof to the instruction label and weatherproof elsewhere — worth confirming against your specific fieldwork conditions before relying on it underwater.
- Warranty is one year shorter (2-year vs. 3-year) — worth noting for fleet/commercial buyers budgeting for replacement cycles.
Bottom Line
If your FPID2100 is aging out or you simply can't source one anymore, the FPID2200 is the direct, supported replacement at the same price point — not a downgrade, just a different set of trade-offs. Plan for extra 9V batteries on longer field days, and confirm the waterproof rating fits your specific use case before working near or in water.