In this review, we explore the Garrett Ace 200, an entry-level metal detector ideal for beginners eager to dive into the world of treasure hunting. Known for its reliability, this model has established a solid reputation among hobbyists. However, it is a quite fully-featured one. Its undoubted advantage is price, simple adjustment and light weight.
Contents
What is this metal detector designed for?
Metal detector Garrett Ace 200 is one of beginner-friendly devices and it will do for beginner detectorists. It has been on the market for quite along time and it has gained the reputation of a quality metal detector.
Its nearest competitors are Garrett Ace 250 and Garrett Ace 300. In the table where we are comparing metal detectors you can see the difference and get the idea, which device will suit your needs best.
| Model | Garrett Ace 200 |
| Weight | 2.75 lbs (1.27 kgs) |
| Length (Adjustable) | 40″ to 53″ (1.016 m – 1.3462 m) |
| Batteries | 4 AA (included) |
| Headphones | No |
| Warranty | 2 Year |
| Circuit Type | VLF |
| Standard Searchcoil | 6.5″ x 9″ PROformance |
| Operating Frequencies (kHz) | 6.5 kHz |
| Water resistance | Waterproof coil |
| Submersion Depth | No |
| Iron Discrimination Segments | 1 |
| Ground Balance | Preset |
| Search Modes | 3 |
| Audio Threshold | No |
| Sensitivity/Depth Adjustments | 4 |
| Electronic Pinpointing | No |
| VDI (0 to 99 scale) | Yes |
| Build-in flashlight | No |
- Easy To Use – Find coins, jewelry and other treasure!
- 6.5” x 9” Ellipitical searchcoil included
- Digital Target ID
- Made in USA
- 3-Year Warranty
Last update on 2024-12-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates
Review
The metal detector uses VLF scheme; the operating frequency is 6.5 kHz. All the device characteristics are the same as those of its predecessor Garrett Ace 150. Even the coil is completely the same – a concentric one, 6.5×9 PROformance.
The metal detector has also inherited some drawbacks from its predecessor; these are – absence of pinpointer and ground balance function.
The main change introduced in the device control unit is that VDI number is displayed on it now. VDI number is some index of the object, which helps to identify the target.
Of course, after several treasure hunting trips the detectorist stops using the information from the display and starts relying only on tone signals obtained from the target. Nevertheless, in case when you have doubts as for the target, VDI number may give you a hint whether the target is worth digging.
The shaft
Garrett fans will definitely see the likeness of the 200 model and previous models of the metal detector. It has the same orange colored armrest and control unit, a black colored shaft.
The device has a standard design – two straight shaft sections and one S-shaped section with a control unit and an armrest attached to it. The shaft consists of three sections with camlocks. Two upper sections are made from light-weighted aluminum alloy and are covered with powder paint; the bottom shaft section is made from plastic.
The middle shaft section has many length-adjustment holes, due to which the process of the shaft length adjustment to the user’s height
becomes easy and fast. Now all three shaft sections are connected with each other not only by means of spring buttons, which the previous device models use, but also by means of camlocks.
The metal detector construction has become more solid and now replacing the searchcoil with a heavier one doesn’t cause any significant shaft looseness during treasure hunting. It takes several minutes to assemble the metal detector; no special instruments are required for this.
The armrest is now reinforced with ribs to enhance durability, as previous models experienced breakage. Additionally, a polyurethane padding covers the inner armrest, and a velcro strap ensures a secure fit.
Weighing 2.75 lbs (1.25 kg), the shaft adjusts from 40″ to 53″ (1.06 m – 1.29 m), making it suitable for users of varying heights.
The coil
The Ace 200 features an oval PROformance coil measuring 6.5 x 9.0 inches, designed using mono technology. This coil is fully waterproof, making it suitable for various detecting environments.
The coil’s cable is double-shielded to prevent accidental damage, and it connects to the control box via a threaded plug for a reliable connection. While the coil is dependable, some users may prefer to upgrade to a DD coil. However, consider whether investing in a higher-level detector may be a better option.
Headphones
While standard headphones are not included, they are commonly found in expanded packages. If using third-party headphones, it’s essential to remember that the Garrett Ace 200 lacks a volume control feature. Opt for headphones with built-in volume adjustments to avoid discomfort during use.
I have tried to use headphones without it, and it turned out to be impossible to go treasure hunting with them. The sound was very loud, so I took the headphones off and wore them on my neck and only this way it was convenient to work.
The battery
The battery compartment, located beneath the top cover, houses four AA alkaline batteries. The device boasts a runtime of approximately 40 hours under normal conditions. For frequent users, investing in rechargeable batteries is advisable.
The control unit
The control box design remains unchanged, featuring the same color scheme, a power supply from four AA batteries, and a large 6.3 mm headphone jack. To use more common headphones with a 3.5 mm jack, a separate adapter is necessary.
Control of the Garrett Ace 200 is facilitated by three buttons: the left button selects the search mode, the middle button adjusts sensitivity, and the right button powers the device on and off. The second row of indicators displays active segments based on the chosen search mode, providing preset discrimination for each program.
Users can only adjust sensitivity, while the detector manages the rest, aligning with the concept of an easy-to-use first metal detector—just turn it on and start searching.
Modes of operation
The Ace 200 features three search modes:
- Zero Mode: Detects all metals, providing no discrimination.
- Coins Mode: Excludes certain targets to focus on coin detection.
- Jewelry Mode: Ignores iron trash, ideal for jewelry hunting.
The first mode allows detection of all metallic objects within the coil’s range. The second mode excludes unwanted targets, while the third further filters out iron debris. This basic functionality is sufficient for beginners; those seeking advanced features may want to consider higher-level detectors.
In general, the metal detector provides the required minimal functionality. This is quite enough for beginner detectorists, but if you want more, you should buy another metal detector of higher level.
Conclusions
Overall, the Garrett Ace 200 is a solid entry-level detector that offers good value for its price. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to explore whether treasure hunting is the right hobby for them.
However, Bounty Hunter Tracker IV will also do to take one’s first steps in treasure hunting, and this device costs less. But if you need a metal detector with more functions and not very expensive one – there is a wide choice in this case. For example, Nokta Simplex or Fisher F22 offer much more functionality for the same money.