10 Best Garrett Metal Detectors 2026 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 ACE400 Metal Detector is a solid choice for both beginners and hobbyists who are eager to explore metal detection. Its operating frequency of 10 KHz offers a good balance for detecting various types of metals effectively, while the five distinct search modes allow users to customize their experience based on what they are hunting for, whether it be jewelry, coins, or relics. The detailed target legend is particularly helpful, as it provides specific information about detected coins, enhancing the usability for those who may be new to the hobby. Additionally, the device is designed with user-friendly controls, making it easy to turn on and start searching right away. Its lightweight design at 3.3 pounds contributes to comfort during extended use.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The IP54 rating indicates that it is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, which might limit its use in wet conditions or underwater searches compared to fully waterproof models. It's also powered by 4 AA batteries, which adds to the weight and could mean additional costs over time, especially for frequent users. Another point to note is that while the Garrett ACE400 performs well for the basic functionalities, more advanced users might find it lacking in terms of higher-end features like advanced ground balance options or larger search coil sizes.

If you're looking for an entry-level metal detector that’s user-friendly and backed by a reputable manufacturer with a three-year warranty, the Garrett ACE400 Metal Detector is a great pick. Just keep in mind its limitations regarding water resistance and potential restrictions for more experienced users.