Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX Stud Finder, 13-Sensor Wall Scanner, Detects Through Plaster, OSB & Lath, Made in the USA
Franklin Sensors
Best for
Best for deep walls
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate, one input among many in the Verdict Score
Based on 2 trusted sources
Current price
$119.00
Updated May 14, 2026 · 1 min read
Sources behind this verdict
10 reviewers weighted by source trust
The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
The ProSensor MAX is positioned by Franklin as the deep-scan sibling to the M210, with the same 13-sensor LED strip but larger sensors rated to 2.5" detection depth. r/Tools commenters comparing it to older Franklins say "it absolutely is better" specifically because of the thick-wall mode, and Home Depot's product description (echoed in verified-purchase reviews) emphasizes tracking through plaster, OSB and lath, materials where most electronic finders fail outright. Amazon signal is solid at 4.5 stars over roughly 480 reviews, smaller than the M210's sample but consistent in tone.
What reviewers liked
- 2.5" detection depth handles plaster, OSB and lath where most finders fail
- Same multi-sensor LED layout as the M210, praised across r/Tools
- High Amazon rating (4.5) on a meaningful sample size
- Specifically endorsed in r/HomeImprovement for accuracy vs. Zircon-style competitors
Where it falls short
- At roughly $120 it is overkill for standard drywall work
- Reviewers note it's larger and bulkier than the M210
- Still requires careful calibration; community threads warn about false reads on textured walls
- No laser level or display, just LEDs, despite the higher price
The ProSensor MAX is positioned by Franklin as the deep-scan sibling to the M210, with the same 13-sensor LED strip but larger sensors rated to 2.5" detection depth. r/Tools commenters comparing it to older Franklins say "it absolutely is better" specifically because of the thick-wall mode, and Home Depot's product description (echoed in verified-purchase reviews) emphasizes tracking through plaster, OSB and lath, materials where most electronic finders fail outright.
Amazon signal is solid at 4.5 stars over roughly 480 reviews, smaller than the M210's sample but consistent in tone. YouTube reviews questioning whether the $120 price is justified tend to conclude it is, but only if you actually need the extra depth, which is the same caveat r/Tools regulars repeat. For standard 1/2" drywall, multiple community voices say the cheaper M210 is enough; for plaster-and-lath, tile backer or layered remodels, the MAX is the unit people stop complaining about.
- Accurate
- More sensors = More accuracy. Conventional stud finders have 1 or 2 sensors. The ProSensor MAX had 13, making it the most accurate stud sensing tool on the market. The ProSensor MAX has a max detection depth of 2 1/2" for thick walls. The precision LEDs track the location of studs while displaying the center and edges simultaneously.
- Easy
- No calibration required. Just place the ProSensor MAX against the wall and press and hold the button to begin scanning. Unlike other stud sensors that give false readings, the ProSensor MAX allows you to start scanning anywhere, even over a stud.
- Two Detection Modes
- In mode 1, the ProSensor MAX operates as a normal stud finder. In Mode 2, the ProSensor MAX detects studs through two or more layers of drywall (common in condos, townhomes, and home theaters), a single layer of sheetrock plus a layer of OSB or plywood (common in earthquake-resistant walls), plywood and MDF surfaces, lath and plaster (common in homes built prior to 1960), and large tile.
- Displays Full Width Of Studs
- See more than just a point on the wall. The ProSensor MAX’s wide LED display shows the center and edges of studs simultaneously for single studs, double studs, and irregular configurations that other stud finders cannot detect.
- Durable
- Ideal for professionals and projects around the house, the ProSensor MAX is both accurate and durable.
- Convenient Extras
- Built-In Bubble Level, Low Battery Indicator, and Handy Pencil Caddy. Requires two AA batteries (not included).
I can say that it absolutely is better, at least compared to my old Franklin. Whether because it is newer technology, or the special "thick wall ...
For simple stud finding, I find that they work surprisingly well if you use them correctly and it's been my go-to stud finder for years. I have ...
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“Is $120 stud finder worth it? Franklin Sensors ProSensor ...” · YouTube
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