The Explorer XS is almost identical to an Explorer II.......minus the extra numbers on the digital screen (Nothing major because the smartscreen is the one to really work with), that is the biggest difference. With that said............I own both and have used both, and I stick to my XS......I like the way it reacts. There is a difference and I like the XS better. The Explorer II sits as a backup. And with that said, some people who have used the SE have gone back to the II. Some people swear by the II. Certainly the SE and E-Trac have differences to the software and processor, along with some modifications to the body for balance and durability. One known issue with the XS's is that area of the housing which holds the shaft breaks. Minelab in the past has upgraded the housing to the Explorer II housing for under $50 I believe.
I think many Minelab users here will agree that the ProCoil makes a huge difference over the previous stock coils that came with the II and SE.........and this coil along with the others are compatible with the XS. I think it's safe to say that anyone using an XS is getting Minelab Explorer punch in the ground.........and I'd get one over an SE any day, simply because with the money saved, I could get a Sunray Probe and extra coil for it and have a better all around package. No loss in money either, if you decide to upgrade, you're going to get your money back. Some people may come and shoot this reply down, especially the I have to have the newest, but I know that there are people here who will agree with the very similar performance concept. Remember, metal detecting is like fishing. In our minds, we sometimes see a 7lb fish that is really 5lbs and a 10" hole that is actually about 7". We get a little excited sometimes. With the Minelab Explorer machines, the key is learning the machine, coil selection, and of most importance, a slower sweep speed.
