GQ GMC-500
A good value desk or window monitor that posts readings online over Wi-Fi. Pick the 500+ if you want readings at very high levels.
Amazon $118$118
GM tube138 CPM/µSv/h4,250 µSv/h
2.9/5
A cheap pocket Geiger counter for a curious first look at background radiation. Serious users will want more sensitivity and logging.
- GM tubeDetector
- β γ XDetects
- 80 CPM per µSv/h (Co-60)Sensitivity
Check price at Amazon$51.29
Price checked November 9, 2026. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Pros
- One of the cheapest real GM-tube counters
- Energy-compensated tube gives fairer dose readings across energies
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Low sensitivity, so readings settle slowly
- The maker gives two different top readings
- No data download or app
How it scores
The rating comes from 6 measured or published factors, each scored 0-100 against fixed reference points for its detector type. How we rank explains each one.
Specifications
| Model number | GC-01 |
|---|---|
| Detection | |
| Detector | GM tube |
| Tube or crystal | energy-compensated GM tube |
| Radiation types | β γ X |
| Sensitivity | 80 CPM per µSv/h (Co-60) |
| Energy range | 48 to 1,500 keV |
| Gamma spectrum | No |
| Features | |
| Battery | 1100 mAh rechargeable lithium |
| Build | |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Alternatives in this detector type
MOESAPU FS-5000
A cheap counter with a wide listed range for an emergency drawer. Its low sensitivity makes it a poor choice for checking samples.
Amazon $64.99$64.99
GM tube60 CPM/µSv/h50,000 µSv/h
GQ GMC-800
A cheap, easy-to-read beta-gamma counter with a big screen and a lot of memory. Good for a first counter at home.
Amazon $85.98$85.98
GM tube132 CPM/µSv/h2,000 µSv/h
Compare
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