You’ll find the Pro-Pointer AT offers full IP68 waterproof submersion to 20 feet and instant button retuning, while the Pro-Pointer II provides IP66 weatherproofing and requires power-cycling to retune. The AT includes three adjustable sensitivity levels versus the II’s fixed sensitivity, though both deliver identical proportional audio-vibration alerts and 360° detection technology. The AT suits underwater hunting and quick target recovery; the II excels at land detecting. Both weigh 6.5 ounces and include built-in rulers, but your environment and budget determine which model optimizes your detecting strategy.
Key Takeaways
- AT is fully waterproof to 20 feet (IP68), while II is only weatherproof (IP66) for land use.
- AT features three adjustable sensitivity levels; II operates with fixed sensitivity requiring power cycling adjustments.
- AT uses quick-press button retuning for instant recovery; II requires full power off/on cycle for retuning.
- Both models offer proportional audio/vibration alerts, 360° detection, and built-in rulers measuring inches and centimeters.
- AT costs more but suits water/land detecting; II offers better value for land-only metal detecting operations.
Waterproof Ratings and Submersion Capabilities
When comparing waterproof capabilities, the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT delivers full submersion functionality to 20 feet (6 meters) with IP 68 certification, while the Pro-Pointer II offers no waterproof protection whatsoever.
The AT’s waterproof certification enables unrestricted freshwater and saltwater detection operations. You’ll maintain full detection capability at maximum depth ratings, allowing target verification before retrieval. The sealed battery cover with O-ring design guarantees water integrity throughout extended underwater sessions.
IP 68 certification delivers full submersion capability to 20 feet, maintaining complete detection functionality in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
The Pro-Pointer II restricts you to dry-land prospecting only, eliminating beach hunting and underwater treasure recovery entirely.
Through rigorous submersion testing, the AT model proves its corrosion-resistant construction across diverse aquatic environments—from rivers to ocean beaches. The device maintains operational reliability across extreme temperature ranges from -35°F to 158°F (-37°C to 70°C). The AT’s bright orange color enhances underwater visibility, making it easier to locate during submersed detection sessions.
This fundamental difference defines operational freedom: the AT opens complete terrain coverage, while the Pro-Pointer II forces operational cessation near water sources.
Retuning Speed and Methods Compared
The Pro-Pointer AT executes retuning through a single quick-press button activation, while the Pro-Pointer II requires a complete power off/on cycle—a fundamental operational difference that directly impacts target recovery speed.
You’ll experience faster target recovery with the AT’s instant retune method, effectively halving the time needed compared to the II’s sequential power cycle. This retune precision matters when you’re working with multiple close targets or navigating tight spaces where rapid field adjustment is critical.
The AT’s streamlined user interface eliminates the shutdown sequence, letting you maintain detection momentum. Both models tune out mineralized soil and wet sand effectively, but the II’s button-based power cycle integrates all functions—on/off/tune—through one control point. The II’s tuning process shrinks the detection field to help you locate targets more precisely once you’ve narrowed down the search area. Each device includes a 9 V battery and woven belt holster for convenient portability during extended detection sessions.
For unrestricted operation in challenging ground conditions, the AT’s one-touch system delivers superior workflow efficiency.
Sensitivity Settings and Adjustability
The Pro-Pointer AT provides three distinct sensitivity levels that you can adjust for varied ground conditions.
While the Pro-Pointer II operates on a single fixed sensitivity comparable to the AT’s medium setting.
You’ll gain precise tuning capability with the AT’s adjustable settings, enabling enhanced depth and detection of small targets in mineralized soil or saltwater environments.
The II’s fixed sensitivity eliminates adjustment complexity and mode-switching errors, prioritizing operational simplicity over customization in standard field conditions.
Both models utilize a single 9V battery for power, housed in the end cap for straightforward replacement when the low battery alarm activates.
The AT model features fast retune capability that allows quick adjustment when detecting in mineralized ground conditions.
Fixed Vs Adjustable Sensitivity
Adjustable sensitivity distinguishes the Pro-Pointer AT from its predecessor through three discrete sensitivity levels that you’ll control via the single-button interface. This sensitivity customization lets you shrink the detection field for precise target isolation in mineralized soil, wet sand, or saltwater environments.
You’ll adapt to ground conditions without compromising detection depth on small targets.
The Pro-Pointer II operates with fixed sensitivity, eliminating adjustment menus entirely. You’ll use quick power cycling for field reduction instead of dedicated sensitivity controls.
Retune procedures on both models achieve similar results—the AT through button-hold sensitivity changes, the II through rapid power off/on sequences. The AT’s increased depth detection capability provides enhanced range when operating at higher sensitivity settings.
Fixed sensitivity prevents accidental mode switching during field work, while adjustable settings provide tactical flexibility. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize operational simplicity or environmental adaptability.
Practical Detection Performance Differences
When pinpointing targets in challenging soil conditions, retune speed becomes your critical performance differentiator between these models. The AT’s quick-press retune keeps you power-on while shrinking detection fields instantly. In contrast, the II demands full power cycles—more button presses when you’re closing on targets. Both deliver identical proportional audio/vibration response and 360° detection coverage for small target sensitivity.
Environmental resilience and user interface distinctions:
- AT’s fast retune eliminates power interruption in highly mineralized ground.
- II’s power-cycle method effectively counters saltwater and wet sand interference.
- II’s one-touch operation simplifies field adjustments without multi-step sensitivity changes.
- Both auto-tune at startup, minimizing false signals from environmental conditions.
- Both models operate in All-Metal Mode for detecting ferrous and non-ferrous targets.
The II’s IP 66 rating enables rain operation and tip submersion, while AT prioritizes speed over submersion capability.
Audio and Vibration Alert Systems
You’ll find both the Pro-Pointer AT and Pro-Pointer II employ patented proportional alert technology that synchronizes audio tones and vibration pulses, intensifying as you approach your target.
This dual-feedback system delivers precise proximity indication through a 360° detection field, enabling faster target recovery in challenging conditions like noisy environments or deep holes.
Beyond target alerts, both models include a lost pinpointer alarm that activates after periods of inactivity, ensuring you won’t leave your equipment behind in the field.
Proportional Alert Technology
Both the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT and Pro-Pointer II utilize patented proportional alert technology that intensifies audio and vibration pulses as you approach a target. This proportional feedback system increases both frequency and intensity automatically through microprocessor circuitry, requiring no manual tuning adjustments.
You’ll experience escalating chirps and strengthening vibration pulses that guide you precisely to your target’s location.
Key proportional alert advantages:
- Target accuracy improves through intensity-based distance gauging
- Dual audio/vibration alerts function independently in noisy environments
- Progressive pulse escalation reduces dig time and hole size
- Tactile vibration penetrates through gloves and hearing protection
Both models deliver identical proportional response performance.
The AT’s fast retune button provides quicker recalibration than the II’s power-cycle method, though the core proportional technology remains equivalent across both pinpointers. The Pro-Pointer II features 360° side scan detection that enables target identification from all angles around the pinpointer tip. Both pinpointers include a Lost Pinpointer Alarm that activates after 5 minutes of inactivity, helping you locate a misplaced device in the field.
Lost Pinpointer Alarm
The lost pinpointer alarm protects your investment through automated audio and vibration alerts that activate after a predetermined period of inactivity. Both the Pro-Pointer AT and Pro-Pointer II deliver identical lost alarm functionality—you’ll hear audio pulses paired with vibration feedback when your pinpointer remains stationary beyond the set duration.
This dual-alert system proves invaluable in noisy environments or low-light conditions where you might overlook a single warning type. The alarm operates independently from low battery chirps, ensuring you won’t confuse power warnings with loss alerts.
Neither model offers adjustable intensity levels, maintaining fixed alert patterns across all color options. Battery life remains unaffected by alarm standby monitoring, and both units include lanyard loops for physical loss prevention alongside electronic safeguards.
Target Proximity Indication
When you’re zeroing in on a buried target, proportional audio and vibration systems deliver real-time feedback that intensifies as your pinpointer nears metal objects. Both models feature 360° detection with escalating alerts, but their retune methods differ markedly.
The Pro-Pointer II requires power cycling to shrink the detection field, while the AT’s quick-press retune preserves battery longevity through instant adjustments.
Key proximity indication differences:
- Retune Speed: AT’s single-button quick-press eliminates power cycling delays.
- Waterproof Alerts: AT operates vibration features at 20-foot depths; II provides IP 66 rain resistance.
- Sensitivity Tuning: AT offers adjustable sensitivity levels; II maintains fixed thresholds.
- Field Adjustment: Both auto-tune at startup, but AT delivers faster interference elimination.
The AT’s customizable sensitivity tuning gives you precise control over proximity responses in challenging ground conditions.
Built-in Ruler and Measurement Features
Molded directly into the housing of each detector, a built-in ruler provides inch and centimeter markings that eliminate guesswork during target recovery. You’ll find this measurement feature on both the Pro-Pointer AT and Pro-Pointer II, while the original Pro-Pointer lacks it entirely.
The ruler delivers pinpoint accuracy when you’re documenting finds or estimating burial depth in the field, keeping you self-reliant without carrying separate measuring tools. The marking precision complements each model’s 360° detection capabilities, letting you quickly assess target size and exact location.
The AT’s ruler maintains full functionality even during underwater recoveries at depths up to 20 feet, while the II’s water-resistant tip limits submersion scenarios. This molded design withstands rigorous field conditions, giving you consistent performance when recovering small targets efficiently.
LED Flashlight and Battery Performance
- Both units operate on single 9V batteries with automatic power-off features preserving charge.
- Pro-Pointer II includes low battery alarm with audible warning chirps.
- AT maintains full waterproof LED functionality to 20 feet (IP 68 rating).
- Pro-Pointer II weatherproof design (IP 66) limits submersion to tip only.
Temperature range spans -4°F to 130°F for both models.
You’ll appreciate the Pro-Pointer II’s simplified on/off operation minimizing unnecessary battery drain during extended hunts.
Detection Technology and Scanning Capabilities
Battery life matters little if your pinpointer can’t accurately locate targets in challenging conditions. Both models deliver identical 360° side scan detection with pinpointing tips, enabling you to precisely identify metal objects without constraints. Detection accuracy remains consistent across both units, though the Pro-Pointer AT’s adjustable sensitivity gives you control when mineralized soil interferes with target discrimination.
The AT’s fast retune button shrinks your detection field instantly, while the Pro-Pointer II requires a complete power cycle—costing you valuable seconds. Both pinpointers automatically tune at startup and handle saltwater environments effectively.
Target discrimination suffers equally on both models in trashy areas, but the AT’s sensitivity adjustments let you adapt to specific conditions. Enhanced small-target sensitivity on the II matches the AT’s medium setting.
Weight, Construction, and Warranty Coverage
You’ll find both models weigh an identical 6.5 oz (0.2 kg) with battery included, ensuring consistent portability and belt attachment convenience across the product line.
The Pro-Pointer AT features ruggedized components with IP 68 waterproof certification to 20 feet, while the Pro-Pointer II offers IP 66 weatherproof construction with tip-only submersion capability and a patented scraping blade.
Garrett backs both pinpointers with the same 2-year limited parts and labor warranty, providing equal coverage regardless of which model you select.
Identical Weight and Build
When examining the physical specifications, both the Garrett Pro-Pointer AT and Pro-Pointer II share identical dimensions and mass characteristics.
You’ll find each model weighs 6.5 oz with battery installed and measures 9 inches in length.
The tapered profile ranges from 1.5 inches to 0.875 inches, enabling comfortable operation even with gloves.
Design features that enhance field performance include:
- Water-resistant construction meeting IEC 60529 IP 66 standards for rain operation
- Sealed battery compartments protecting internal electronics from moisture
- Ergonomic grip dimensions compatible with existing holster systems
- Lightweight form factor supporting extended detection sessions
Battery efficiency remains consistent across both models, with alkaline cells delivering 30 hours of runtime.
You’ll receive a woven belt holster, 9V battery, and instruction manual, ensuring immediate deployment capability.
Two-Year Warranty Protection
Both models previously shipped with two-year limited warranties, though Garrett has since upgraded coverage to three years for its entire pinpointer lineup. You’ll receive parts and labor protection from your purchase date, covering manufacturing defects and faulty components.
The warranty excludes battery damage, physical abuse, tampering, and environmental contamination. Repairs require authorized service centers, with a 90-day warranty on completed work. You’re responsible for return shipping after the initial 90-day period.
This protection matters when you’re pushing detection depth limits in harsh conditions—the AT’s IP68 waterproof rating versus the II’s IP66 weatherproofing affects long-term durability. Extended battery life in both models reduces replacement frequency, minimizing exclusion risks.
Register your unit immediately to secure full coverage and maintain documentation for warranty claims.
Best Use Cases: Saltwater vs. Land Detecting
The fundamental difference between these pinpointers lies in their waterproofing capabilities, which directly determines their ideal detecting environments.
Waterproof comparison reveals the Pro-Pointer AT’s IP 68 rating enables full submersion to 20 feet, making it essential for river and beach detecting.
The Pro-Pointer II’s IP 66 weatherproof design restricts you to land-based hunts where its simplicity shines.
Optimal applications for each model:
- Pro-Pointer AT: Saltwater beaches, river hunting, and full submersion scenarios where quick-press retune eliminates interference
- Pro-Pointer II: Land detecting with power off/on retune for mineralized soil and basic saltwater adjustments
Sensitivity differences: AT’s adjustable settings optimize performance across varying conditions; II’s fixed sensitivity simplifies land operations
Environmental matching: Choose AT for unrestricted water access; select II when weatherproof protection suffices for terrestrial detecting
Value Analysis and Which Model to Choose
Understanding where each pinpointer excels matters little if the price-to-performance ratio doesn’t align with your detecting budget and field requirements.
You’ll find Pro-Pointer II delivers exceptional value when you’re primarily land detecting and don’t need waterproof durability beyond weatherproof protection. Its simplified operation eliminates feature bloat while maintaining core detection performance comparable to AT’s medium sensitivity setting.
Pro-Pointer AT justifies its premium through IP 68 waterproof durability, sensitivity customization, and integrated measurement tools. You’re investing in versatility that spans beach hunting, underwater recovery, and precision target isolation through adjustable sensitivity levels.
Choose Pro-Pointer II if you’re budget-conscious and operate in dry-to-damp conditions.
Select Pro-Pointer AT when your detecting environment demands full submersion capability and you require sensitivity customization for varying ground conditions and target depths.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Upgrade My Pro-Pointer II to Have the Same Features as the AT?
No, you can’t upgrade your Pro-Pointer II to AT specs—pinpointer compatibility doesn’t work that way. Hardware differences in waterproofing, retune buttons, and sensitivity controls are built-in. Battery differences aside, you’ll need to buy the AT outright for those features.
Do Both Models Work With Rechargeable 9V Batteries?
Yes, both models offer rechargeable compatibility with 9V batteries, delivering 8-hour battery longevity. You’ll experience superior performance with Li-ion rechargeables, though some brands like EBL may trigger low-battery warnings due to voltage variations.
What Is the Maximum Detection Depth for Each Pinpointer Model?
Neither model lists maximum detection range specs—pinpointers aren’t designed for depth comparison like metal detectors. You’ll find they detect targets within a few inches, with performance varying based on target size and ground mineralization conditions.
Are Replacement Parts and Accessories Compatible Between the Two Models?
You’ll find limited compatibility concerns between models. Battery, lanyard loop, and holster work interchangeably. However, accessory variations exist—the AT’s sensitivity controls and fast retune button aren’t retrofittable to the Pro-Pointer II’s simpler design.
How Do Extreme Temperatures Affect the Performance of Each Pinpointer?
The AT handles temperature effects across -35°F to 158°F—123° wider than the II’s range. You’ll experience superior device durability in extreme conditions, from Arctic hunts to desert detecting, while the II limits your freedom in harsh environments.
References
- https://www.highplainsprospectors.com/blogs/news/garrett-pro-pointer-ii-review
- https://garrett.com/garrett-pro-pointer-ii/
- https://seriousdetecting.com/blogs/detecting-prospecting/garrett-pro-pointers-compared-ii-at-and-at-zlynk-the-6-main-differences
- https://seriousdetecting.com/blogs/detecting-prospecting/garrett-pro-pointer-comparison
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgB7D-2jYnk
- https://www.metaldetector.com/pages/learnfield-tests-and-reviews-by-brandgarrettgarrett-pro-pointer-ii-pro-pointer-at-pro-pointer-at-z-lynk-comparison-chart
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkwLOTWiKAk
- https://metaldetectingforum.com/index.php
- https://highbanker.com.au/products/garrett-pin-pointer-pro-at-waterproof-6m
- https://bigboyshobbies.net/garrett-pro-pointer-at
