A method for detecting particles in a sample includes adding magnetic detection particles to the sample, the magnetic detection particles configured to bind to the particles for detection, and reading in a measurement signal from an interface to at least one magnetic field sensor. The measurement signal includes at least one acquired characteristic of a magnetic field extending at least through a partial quantity of the sample. The method further includes ascertaining a fluctuation intensity of the at least one characteristic of the magnetic field, the fluctuation intensity dependent on the detection particles. The method also further includes determining a state of binding of at least one detection particle as unbound or bound to a particle for detection based on the determined fluctuation intensity in order to detect the particles in the sample.
