The Garrett ACE series offers four primary models—ACE 200, 300, 400, and Apex—each building on the last with enhanced discrimination and target ID capabilities. You’ll find the 200 perfect for beginners at 6.5 kHz, while the 300 adds pinpointing at 8 kHz. The 400 introduces Iron Audio technology at 10 kHz for trashy sites, and the Apex delivers multi-frequency performance. All models feature waterproof coils, digital target ID (0-99 scale), and customizable search modes including Zero-Disc, Jewelry, Coins, and Relics. Below, we’ll break down how each model performs in real-world conditions.
Key Takeaways
- ACE series includes models 200, 300, 400, and Apex, progressing from entry-level to intermediate with increasing features and frequencies.
- ACE 200 is beginner-friendly at 6.5 kHz; ACE 300 adds 8 kHz and pinpointing; ACE 400 offers 10 kHz and Iron Audio discrimination.
- All models feature digital target ID (0-99 scale), waterproof coils, adjustable sensitivity, and multiple search modes for various detecting applications.
- Iron Audio technology in ACE 400 produces distinct tones for ferrous targets, reducing false digs in trashy or relic-rich sites.
- Detection depths reach approximately 10-11.5 inches for coins, rings, and nickels using standard coils across the ACE lineup.
History and Background of Garrett Metal Detectors
When Charles Garrett rented commercial metal detectors in 1963, their poor performance sparked a determination that would reshape the industry. Working from his Garland, Texas garage, he engineered the Hunter—a dual searchcoil detector retailing at $145.00 when the business launched April 1, 1964.
Historical innovations defined Garrett’s trajectory. The 1968 Zero Drift Revolution introduced patented coaxial search coil winding, triggering industry-wide competition by 1971.
You’ll find this brand evolution continued with the Mini Hunter, democratizing detection as the first affordable model. The 1978 Sea Hunter pioneered underwater pulse induction technology. Garrett’s founder served as an Electrician Mate 2nd Class Petty Officer during the Korean War, overseeing electrical projects aboard USS Bottineau. By 2005, the ACE 150 and ACE 250 detectors became top hobby sellers in the U.S. and performed well in Europe.
Overview of the ACE Series Lineup
The ACE series spans four core models—200, 300, 400, and Apex—each targeting specific skill levels from absolute beginners to intermediate detectorists seeking multi-frequency capabilities.
You’ll find the lineup progresses systematically in features and price, with the ACE 200 starting at entry-level simplicity and the Apex delivering advanced technology like Multi-Flex frequency selection and Z-Lynk wireless connectivity.
Garrett also offers special camo editions, including Jase Robertson models for the ACE 300 and Apex. These maintain identical specifications to their standard counterparts while adding visual appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. The ACE 300i international version includes lightweight headphones and an environmental cover-up for the control box. Each model features adjustable discrimination to help users filter out unwanted targets and focus on valuable finds.
Beginner to Advanced Models
Garrett’s ACE Series currently comprises three models—the ACE 200, ACE 300, and ACE 400—each engineered to match specific skill levels while maintaining the lineup’s reputation as best-selling beginner detectors.
The progression follows a deliberate path through metal detector advancements:
- ACE 200: Entry-level platform for kids aged 9+ and adult beginners, featuring basic search modes and cam-lock stem stability at the most accessible price point
- ACE 300: Mid-tier option adding two search modes, built-in pinpointing, and complete accessory package (headphones, environmental cover, coil cover)
- ACE 400: Top-tier model delivering Iron Audio discrimination, 8.5″ x 11″ DD PROformance coil matching AT series depth capabilities
This structured approach lets you advance through the hobbyist community at your own pace, upgrading features as your skills develop without overwhelming initial learning curves. All models share Digital Target ID capabilities on a 0-99 scale, eliminating the need for ground balancing while providing accurate depth readings through their waterproof search coils. The adjustable length shaft accommodates users of various heights, ensuring comfortable operation during extended detecting sessions.
Special Edition Options
Beyond standard configurations, several ACE models receive specialized treatments that bundle premium accessories with distinctive aesthetics—most especially the Jase Robertson Camo Editions that emerged from the Duck Family Treasure TV series.
You’ll find the Apex Camo includes five accessories plus MS-3 wireless headphones, while the ACE 300 variant bundles three essentials with lightweight wired headphones. The 55-Year Anniversary ACE 400 package adds a DD waterproof coil and Pro-Pointer AT.
These editions don’t compromise metal detector ergonomics—environmental cover-ups protect control boxes without adding bulk. Battery life considerations remain consistent across special editions, though wireless configurations naturally drain faster. Most bundled packages include 4 AA batteries to get you started in the field immediately.
Certified Open Box versions preserve all features at reduced prices. Promotional periods like Halloween specials stack savings onto already-bundled packages, maximizing value without sacrificing detection capability. Current seasonal promotions exclude security products from savings but apply to most detector configurations through early February.
ACE 200: Features and Best Uses
Looking for a detector that balances simplicity with genuine capability? The ACE 200 delivers exactly that.
At 2.7 lbs with adjustable 40″-53″ length, you’ll hunt comfortably for hours. Its 6.5 kHz frequency cuts through varied soil composition while maintaining metal sensitivity across target types. You get four sensitivity levels to adapt to ground conditions, plus a Digital Target ID (0-99 scale) that eliminates guesswork.
Lightweight at 2.7 lbs, adjustable length, and four sensitivity levels with 0-99 Digital Target ID for precise detection across any terrain.
Core capabilities that matter:
- Three-tone audio ID with Pulse-Width Modulation for instant target recognition
- 6.5″ x 9″ submersible coil handles freshwater beaches and streams
- Discrimination control with notch filtering removes iron trash automatically
The depth indicator shows how deep you’re digging before you start. It disassembles into three pieces for vehicle storage. The unit excels at coin hunting, beach hunting, jewelry recovery, relic searching, and even prospecting applications. Camlocks enhance stem stability to ensure secure handling during your detecting sessions.
Four AA batteries power extended sessions. You’re covered by a 2-year warranty, making this your gateway to genuine detecting freedom.
ACE 300: Mid-Range Capabilities
When you’re ready to move beyond entry-level detecting, the ACE 300 delivers professional-grade features without the complexity. This mid-range detector operates at 8 kHz frequency, optimizing metal detection for low and medium conductivity targets—making it effective for gold prospecting and lead recovery.
You’ll get precise target identification through a 0-99 Digital Target ID scale, backed by three distinct audio tones that differentiate targets instantly.
The 7″ x 10″ submersible searchcoil expands your coverage area while reaching deeper targets.
At 2.8 lbs, you’ll hunt comfortably for hours. Eight sensitivity levels let you adapt to any terrain, while four iron discrimination segments eliminate unwanted signals.
Five search modes—including dedicated RELICS and COINS modes—plus electronic pinpointing give you complete control over your detecting strategy.
ACE 400: Advanced Detection for Serious Hobbyists
The ACE 400 elevates your detecting game with Iron Audio technology that lets you hear discriminated iron targets and adjust the mid-tone signal range—a critical advantage when hunting in trashy areas.
You’ll work with five distinct search modes that optimize performance for coins, jewelry, relics, and custom hunting scenarios, backed by electronic pinpointing for precise target recovery.
This detector reaches copper coins at 10 inches, rings and zinc at 11 inches, and nickels at 11.5 inches, delivering the depth and discrimination control serious hobbyists need for productive sessions.
Iron Audio Technology
Iron Audio technology transforms how you detect targets in trash-laden environments by making discriminated ferrous objects audible rather than silent. You’ll hear distinctive gruff tones or grunts when sweeping over bottle caps, nails, and washers—targets that would otherwise vanish into silence. This intelligence empowers your metal detector techniques by letting you judge whether deeper signals warrant digging or dismissal.
Key advantages for treasure hunting strategies:
- Selective activation: Toggle Iron Audio on intermittently to assess questionable targets without constant audio clutter overwhelming your sweep patterns.
- Enhanced discrimination: Combine with the 4-segment Iron Discrimination settings and notch filtering to isolate valuable finds like earrings amid dense iron contamination.
- Battlefield precision: Identify flat iron fragments versus coins using the 0-99 Target ID scale alongside iron-specific audio feedback in relic-rich historical sites.
You’ll reduce wasted recovery time notably in parks and battlefields.
Five Search Modes
Unlike entry-level detectors that force you into one-size-fits-all operation, your ACE 400 delivers five dedicated search modes engineered for distinct hunting scenarios. Zero-Disc Mode activates all 12 discrimination pixels, detecting every metal type while auto-adjusting for ground minerals—essential for initial reconnaissance.
Jewelry Mode targets rings and precious metals while rejecting iron trash through optimized discrimination settings.
Custom Mode empowers you to program and save specific notch patterns, eliminating unwanted targets up to ID 65.
Relics Mode focuses on mid-range conductive artifacts, silencing coins and modern debris.
Coins Mode maximizes detection of deeply buried, high-conductivity currency in trafficked areas.
Each mode retains your last configuration at power-on, ensuring you’re immediately operational.
This versatility transforms your metal detecting approach from compromise to tactical precision.
Performance and Depth Capabilities
Operating modes mean nothing without raw detection power to back them up.
The ACE 400’s 10 kHz frequency delivers exceptional sensitivity to medium and low conductivity targets, while its 8.5″ x 11″ DD searchcoil punches through mineralized soil with authority.
You’ll detect coins consistently to 10 inches, with nickels reaching 11.5 inches before cutoff.
Key Performance Features:
- 8-level sensitivity adjustment optimizes detection depth across varying ground conditions
- Waterproof features on the searchcoil enable hunting in shallow water and wet conditions
- Battery longevity from 4 AA batteries provides extended detecting sessions without interruption
The digital target ID (0-99 scale) combined with Iron Audio gives you confident dig decisions.
Electronic pinpointing accelerates recovery time, letting you cover more ground efficiently.
ACE Apex: Multi-Frequency Technology
The ACE Apex represents Garrett’s most advanced frequency technology in the ACE series, deploying Multi-Flex Technology that operates across a broad-bandwidth digital platform. You’ll access six operational modes: four single frequencies (5, 10, 15, 20 kHz) plus Multi-Frequency and Multi-Salt configurations.
This versatility ranks among the pinnacle of metal detector innovations in its price category.
Lower frequencies optimize detection for larger, conductive targets like silver coins, while higher frequencies enhance sensitivity to smaller gold nuggets.
Multi-Frequency mode delivers extensive target identification across all soil conditions simultaneously, eliminating frequency selection guesswork.
The Multi-Salt mode specifically handles saltwater beach environments where standard VLF detectors struggle.
You’re not locked into manufacturer-determined settings—you’ll select frequencies matching your hunting objectives and ground conditions, maximizing recovery potential while minimizing interference.
Search Modes and Discrimination Settings
How do you determine which targets deserve investigation when your detector signals constantly over trashy ground?
The ACE series provides five specialized search modes that filter target signals based on conductivity patterns. Zero-disc mode accepts all metals for thorough sweeps, while Coins mode eliminates low-conductivity trash to isolate high-value targets. Jewelry mode balances mid-range acceptance for gold rings, and Relics mode captures non-ferrous artifacts that other patterns reject.
Master these discrimination strategies:
- Custom Mode lets you program individual notch patterns using DISCR/ELIM buttons, retaining settings after power-off
- Iron Audio integration helps you identify ferrous trash without visual confirmation
- 40-level iron discrimination on ACE 400 provides granular control over target acceptance
Each mode represents proven field patterns that maximize recovery while minimizing dig time in contaminated sites.
Included Accessories and Available Upgrades
Why does your detector’s performance depend as much on accessories as the unit itself? You’ll find ACE 300 models include lightweight headphones and environmental cover-ups, while ACE 400 packages add searchcoil covers and Garrett Treasure Sound Headphones.
The Apex takes it further with integrated Z-Lynk wireless technology.
Your upgrade path matters. Wireless CS-3 Z-Lynk headphones eliminate cable restrictions.
Searchcoil options range from the compact 4.5″ Super Sniper for target separation to the 8.5″ x 11″ DD Raider for expanded coverage.
You’ll need proper transport—consider the camouflage case for universal protection.
Recovery tools accelerate your finds. The Pro Pointer II cuts recovery time remarkably, while a metal sand scoop handles beach operations efficiently.
Don’t overlook searchcoil covers—they’re essential protection for maintaining detection accuracy in demanding environments.
Performance Comparison and Choosing the Right Model
Understanding which accessories complement your detector only matters if you’ve selected the right ACE model in the first place. The ACE 200 suits beginners and kids with its straightforward interface and lightweight build. The ACE 300 adds pinpointing capability and enhanced depth detection. The ACE 400 delivers Iron Audio and superior discrimination for serious relic hunters.
Here’s what separates these models:
- Detection depth: ACE 400 and 300 perform within 1 inch of each other, though the 400’s larger coil covers more ground
- Discrimination power: The 400’s 12-segment notch system outperforms both lower models
- Target identification: Iron Audio on the 400 gives you advanced trash rejection capabilities
Battery longevity remains consistent across all models.
Note that waterproof features aren’t available in this series—you’ll need Garrett’s AT series for that capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Garrett ACE Detectors Be Used in Saltwater or Wet Conditions?
You’ll find the ACE Apex excels in saltwater use with multi-frequency technology, while the ACE 300 offers wet condition durability for shallow water only. Most ACE models lack full waterproofing, limiting your freedom in marine environments.
What Is the Warranty Coverage for ACE Series Metal Detectors?
Ironically, you’ll get *three years* of freedom from repair costs—ACE detectors carry a 36-month parts and labor warranty. You must register at garrett.com to activate coverage, though batteries aren’t included in this customer service policy.
Are Rechargeable Batteries Compatible With ACE Models or Only Alkaline?
ACE models officially use alkaline AA batteries only, lacking built-in rechargeable options. However, battery compatibility extends to NiMH rechargeables like Eneloop—users successfully run them without issues, offering you cost savings and detecting freedom long-term.
How Deep Can ACE Detectors Find Coins and Larger Objects?
Straight from the horse’s mouth: your Ace detector achieves coin depth of 10-14 inches for quarters under ideal conditions. Object detection reaches greater depths for larger targets, though mineralized soil and sensitivity settings substantially affect your real-world performance.
Can I Use Third-Party Headphones With ACE Models Besides Included Ones?
You’ll find excellent headphone compatibility with ACE models—any third-party accessories featuring 1/4-inch jacks and 8-36 ohm impedance work perfectly. Standard household headphones, wireless Z-Lynk systems, and aftermarket options all function reliably, giving you unlimited choices.
References
- https://garrett.com/sport/ace/
- https://kellycodetectors.com/blog/garrett-ace-400-vs-at-pro/
- https://www.metaldetector.com/pages/learnfield-tests-and-reviews-by-brandgarrettgarrett-ace-metal-detectors-series-comparison
- https://www.metaldetector.com/blogs/new_blog/garrett-ace-200-300-and-400-comparison-chart
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vD_eiTkwcdA
- https://bigboyshobbies.net/products/garrett-ace-300-metal-detector
- https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php?threads/i-got-a-new-detector-and-i-want-to-know-roughly-what-i-can-expect-from-it.312921/
- http://metaldetectings.com/news.php?item.23.2
- https://garrett.com/our-story/history/
- https://www.garrettnewzealand.co.nz/garrett-history/
