10 Best Garrett Metal Detectors 2025 in the United States

The Garrett ACE 300 Metal Detector is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate users looking to explore metal detection. It operates at a good frequency suitable for finding a variety of targets, and its discrimination feature helps in filtering out unwanted metals, making your search more efficient. With a waterproof search coil, you can comfortably use it in shallow waters, which adds to its versatility. The 7" x 10" search coil size is a nice balance, allowing for good coverage while still being manageable.

The detector boasts a user-friendly LCD display with target identification and depth indicator features, which can significantly aid in understanding what you’ve found and how deep it is. The adjustable length makes it suitable for users of different heights, enhancing its ergonomic design. However, at 5.13 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy during extended use, especially for younger or older users.

Battery life is commendable, lasting about 25 hours on just 4 AAA batteries, so you can enjoy long detection sessions without frequent replacements. The included accessories, like the volume control headphones and environmental cover, provide good value and enhance the user experience. The ACE 300 is capable, but it might not meet the expectations of advanced users who require more specialized features. Its lack of advanced ground balance settings may limit its effectiveness on highly mineralized terrains.

The Garrett AT Gold Waterproof Metal Detector is a solid choice for hobbyists interested in gold prospecting and general metal detection. Operating at a frequency of 18 kHz, it is particularly effective at finding smaller targets like gold nuggets while providing reliable discrimination to minimize junk signals. This feature makes it user-friendly as it helps users distinguish valuable items from unwanted metals.

One of the standout strengths of this detector is its waterproof design, rated IP54, allowing for use in various environments, including streams and beaches. The included headphones enhance the experience by providing clear audio cues without disturbing others. Additionally, the ProPointer at PinPointer helps users zero in on their targets, making retrieval much easier.

On the ergonomic side, the adjustable length and relatively light weight (6.19 pounds) make it comfortable for extended use. The LCD display provides a straightforward interface for target identification and depth indication, which is beneficial for beginners and experienced users alike. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. First, the AT Gold has only two programs, which may limit advanced users seeking more versatility in settings. The depth indicator can sometimes be less accurate in mineralized ground, which could affect the depth readings for certain targets. Lastly, while the design is generally user-friendly, some users might find the learning curve steep, particularly if they are new to metal detecting.

The Garrett ACE 200 Metal Detector is designed for both adults and kids, making it a versatile option for hobbyists. One of its primary strengths is its ease of use, ideal for beginners looking for coins, jewelry, and other treasures. The included 6.5” x 9” elliptical search coil is effective and waterproof, allowing for searches in various terrains without concern for wet conditions. The digital target ID provides clear identification of targets, which enhances the user experience by reducing guesswork.

Operating at a frequency of 7 KHz, it strikes a good balance for general metal detection needs, including coins and relics. With a weight of 2.75 pounds and adjustable length, it promotes comfortable use over extended periods, suitable for users of varying heights and strengths. The Garrett ACE 200 also comes with a 3-year warranty, adding a layer of reliability and peace of mind for buyers. However, it requires 4 AA batteries, which could be seen as a drawback in terms of long-term operating costs.

The lack of advanced features like manual ground balance adjustments might limit its effectiveness in highly mineralized soils. Additionally, it has only 3 detection programs, which may not offer the extensive flexibility more experienced users might seek. Despite these limitations, the Garrett ACE 200 is a reliable and user-friendly choice for those beginning their metal detecting journey or for casual use.