Garrett Ace Apex: Upgrade Your Metal Detecting Experience

This article provides an overview of the Garrett Apex metal detector, highlighting its key features and benefits for both beginner and experienced detectorists. The Garrett Apex operates at multiple frequencies, enhancing its versatility in various environments, from parks to beaches. Its advanced search coil design improves target detection and depth range.

Included in the device package are user-friendly headphones, allowing for a focused detecting experience. The Apex boasts impressive battery life, enabling it to operate for up to 15 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for extended outings.

As we receive new information and updates, we will ensure that this article remains current, providing the most accurate details about the Garrett Apex and its functionality.

History

The Garrett Apex is an innovative addition to the metal detector market in 2020, belonging to the ACE product line. This model builds upon the best practices established by previous Garrett metal detectors, positioning itself as a strong contender for best-selling status worldwide.

Essentially, the Garrett Apex serves as a multifrequency version of the Garrett ACE 400 and may even be viewed as an upgraded iteration of the Garrett AT PRO. Both of these earlier models are well-regarded, and the introduction of multifrequency capabilities in the Apex is expected to enhance its popularity significantly.

Utilizing the new Multi-Flex technology, users can select from various operating frequencies tailored to improve detection quality for specific targets, such as precious metals or relics. Additionally, the Apex offers simultaneous multifrequency modes, ensuring effective detection across diverse soil types. This flexibility makes it an appealing option for detectorists searching for a wide range of targets in various environments.

Garrett ACE Apex Specifications

Model	Garrett ACE Apex
Weight	2.5 lbs (1.13 kg)
Length (Adjustable)	43″ to 56″ (1.09 m – 1.4 m)
Standard Searchcoil	6″ x 11″ DD Viper™ or 8.5” x 11” DD Raider™
Batteries	Rechargeable Lithium Ion, built-in; 7.5Wh, 30 g
Headphones	Yes, Z-Lynk Wireless Technology
Warranty	2 years

Operating Principle	VLF
Single Frequency Options	5, 10, 15 and 20 kHz
Multi-Frequency Options	Simultaneous Multi-Frequency and Multi-Frequency Salt
Standard Searchcoil	6″ x 11″ DD Viper

Water resistance	Rainproof control box
Submersion Depth	No

Discrimination	Yes, 20 selectable segments
Iron Discrimination Segments	8
Search Modes	6, with International and US Coins modes
Updatable Software	Yes
Large Digital Target ID	0 to 99 scale
Ground Balance	Auto, 175 pts
Audio Threshold	No
Sensitivity – Depth Adjustments	8
Electronic Pinpointing	Yes
VDI (0 to 99 scale)	Yes
Build-in flashlight	Yes

Best Choice No. 1

Garrett ACE Apex Metal Detector with 6x11' DD Multi-Flex Viper Search Coil, 20kHz

Garrett ACE Apex Metal Detector with 6×11″ DD Multi-Flex Viper Search Coil, 20kHz

Last update on 2024-11-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / Source: Amazon Affiliates

The review

The Garrett Apex metal detector is available in two package options: the Standard Package and the Wireless Package.

The Standard Package includes the essential components for metal detecting, while the Wireless Package offers additional features for enhanced convenience. This advanced package includes wireless MS-3 headphones, providing a more immersive experience without the hassle of cords. Additionally, it comes with a protective plastic cover for the device’s search coil, safeguarding it from damage during use.

The shaft

The Garrett Apex features a shaft identical to those used in the Garrett AT product line, including the AT MAX, AT PRO, and AT Gold models. This shaft has proven reliable in various conditions, offering a solid and durable design.

Key attributes of the shaft include a robust armrest, a comfortable handle, and secure collet clamps that prevent any loosening during use. These design elements contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient detecting experience, particularly during extended sessions. The adjustable length of the shaft accommodates users of varying heights, allowing them to find a comfortable position, which enhances the overall detecting experience.

The shaft is made from high-quality materials, contributing to its durability and resistance to wear and tear during outdoor use. Additionally, the combination of features in the shaft aims to reduce fatigue and strain on the user’s arms, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned detectorists. Furthermore, the shaft design ensures compatibility with a variety of Garrett search coils, offering users flexibility in their detecting setup.

The weight of the metal detector, including the Garrett 6×1 coil, is 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg). The adjustable size of the device ranges from 43 inches to 56 inches (1.09 m to 1.4 m), allowing users to customize it for optimal comfort and usability. The balanced weight distribution of the metal detector helps improve stability and control while detecting, which is essential for accurate target identification.

The search coil

The Garrett Apex metal detector is equipped with the Viper coil, which features an elliptical shape measuring 6×11 inches. This waterproof coil is well-suited for navigating trashy areas, as its elliptical design allows for better target separation, making it easier to distinguish valuable items from trash. While its smaller size may limit effectiveness in open fields, the Viper coil enhances usability in diverse environments, including shallow water areas.

One of the standout features of the Garrett Apex is its multifrequency capability, allowing the device to operate on several frequencies simultaneously. Users can choose to utilize a single operating frequency, similar to the Minelab Equinox. The available frequencies are 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 15 kHz, and 20 kHz.

The device offers two multifrequency modes: Multifrequency and Multi-Salt, the latter specifically designed for detecting in mineralized soils. Operating in multifrequency mode helps improve detection depth and sensitivity to different types of metals, providing a more comprehensive detecting experience. Each frequency also includes a frequency shift option, which allows the detector to function effectively in close proximity to other metal detectors. With eight independent channels or frequency shifts for each operating frequency, the Garrett Apex provides a total of 48 different frequency settings. This versatility enables the device to operate smoothly near other detectors while minimizing interference from various electric and magnetic noise sources.

The availability of multiple frequency settings allows users to customize their detecting approach based on specific site conditions, enhancing their chances of finding valuable items. Additionally, the Garrett Apex’s interface is designed to make it easy for users to switch between frequencies and modes, ensuring a user-friendly experience for both beginners and experienced detectorists.

Headphones

The Garrett Apex metal detector incorporates advanced embedded wireless technology known as Garrett Z-LYNK. This innovative feature enhances the user experience by providing a seamless audio connection. Each metal detector is equipped with a wireless unit; however, it will only function with the wireless headphones included in the Advanced package set.

Garrett Z-LYNK operates six times faster than standard Bluetooth technology, minimizing latency and ensuring that users receive real-time audio feedback while detecting. This rapid response allows for improved target identification and enhances the overall efficiency of metal detecting. The technology’s long-range functionality enables users to move freely without worrying about audio dropouts, making it ideal for expansive detecting environments.

Additionally, Z-LYNK is optimized for battery efficiency, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging, which is especially beneficial during long detecting sessions. This wireless technology may also be compatible with other Garrett accessories, further enhancing the versatility of the metal detector setup.

The integration of Z-LYNK technology simplifies the setup process, making it easy for users to connect the headphones and start detecting right away, thereby catering to both novice and experienced users.

Battery

The Garrett Apex features an internal rechargeable battery that provides up to 15 hours of continuous operation, depending on device settings and search modes. Users can conveniently charge the battery using the included mini USB cable, allowing for easy recharging between sessions.

Additionally, the device has a headphone jack (mini-Jack 3.5 mm) for added connectivity options. The Z-LYNK technology is optimized for battery efficiency, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging, which is especially beneficial during long detecting sessions. This wireless technology may also be compatible with other Garrett accessories, further enhancing the versatility of the metal detector setup.

Control unit

The Garrett Apex metal detector features a sleek black control unit with distinctive yellow edges. This control unit is designed for durability and is waterproof, allowing it to function in the rain. However, it should not be submerged in water. The LCD display is backlit, ensuring visibility of device settings and target identification even in low-light conditions.

The display provides essential information, including target detection depth and a 20-segment discrimination scale. The Visual Discrimination Indicator (VDI) values range from 0 to 99, with values from 0 to 39 designated for ferrous metals. Discrimination settings can be adjusted in increments of 5, offering a total of 20 segments to tailor the detection process.

A notable feature of the Garrett Apex is its audio gain control and separate iron volume control. This capability, which was lacking in many previous models, allows users to fine-tune audio settings for better identification of targets and improved convenience during use.

The user-friendly design of the metal detector is highlighted by its intuitive interface. Activating the device is straightforward—simply press the power button. Upon activation, the Garrett Apex remembers the last search mode used, allowing for a seamless transition into operation.

Users can easily switch between modes using the ‘select mode’ button, and device settings can be adjusted through a standard menu interface. The control panel allows adjustments to the following parameters:

Sensitivity
Volume
Volume exclusively for iron targets
Operating frequency
Backlight settings
Wireless operation mode

With these features, the Garrett Apex is designed to provide a streamlined and efficient metal detecting experience, catering to both novice and experienced users alike.

Search modes

The Garrett Apex metal detector features six distinct search modes designed to optimize performance for various detecting scenarios: All Metal, Coins, US Coins, Jewelry, Relics, and Custom. Each mode caters to specific target types and detecting conditions, making the Apex a versatile tool for both beginners and experienced detectorists.

Search Modes Overview

All Metal: This mode detects all types of metals but is not recommended for use in areas with a lot of trash or iron debris. It is best utilized in cleaner locations where the likelihood of unwanted signals is low.
Coins: Once this mode is activated, the detector is optimized to identify small-sized metallic objects, making it ideal for searching in parks, old homesteads, and similar areas.
US Coins: Tailored for the American market, this mode focuses on detecting coins that are commonly found in the United States, enhancing the likelihood of success for users in this region.
Jewelry: This mode is perfect for treasure hunters looking for chains, earrings, and other jewelry items crafted from precious metals. It improves detection accuracy for these specific targets.
Relics: Designed for those who enjoy searching for historical artifacts, this mode provides sufficient detection depth, allowing users to find larger targets buried deeper in the ground.
Custom: This mode caters to professional users who need the flexibility to adjust their settings for specific digging conditions. It allows for tailored detection strategies based on the user’s preferences and the environment.

In addition to these search modes, the Garrett Apex also includes a pinpointer function for precise target location, both manual and automatic ground balancing, and an IRON AUDIO function that enhances the detection of iron targets. The device employs a 5-tone sound response system, providing audio feedback that varies with different types of targets, thereby aiding in effective identification.

Pinpoint

Another useful feature of the Garrett Apex is its pinpoint function, which comes in handy after a target has been detected and identified. This mode allows users to determine the exact location of a target, saving both time and effort during excavation.

To activate the pinpoint mode, simply press and hold the pinpoint button. Once engaged, the display will show the signal strength of the detected target. To narrow down the location, slowly move the metal detector coil left, right, back, and forth in a cross-like pattern. The signal strength will increase as you approach the target, and when the display shows the maximum value, you’ll know that the target is directly beneath the coil, marking the ideal spot to begin digging.

By using the pinpoint function, detectorists can avoid the frustration of digging in multiple areas and missing the target, as this feature ensures precise and efficient location identification.

Recovery speed

The recovery rate of a metal detector is a critical parameter, as it directly impacts how efficiently and quickly new targets are detected. The Garrett Ace Apex boasts a high recovery rate, allowing it to perform well even in mineralized soils or trashy areas. This makes it highly effective in challenging environments where many detectors might struggle, ensuring that users can still locate valuable targets amidst cluttered or mineral-heavy ground.

Sound identification

This time, Garrett has made significant strides in addressing user feedback, resulting in a more user-friendly experience. One notable improvement is the addition of a convenient volume control, allowing users to adjust sound levels based on their individual preferences. Additionally, the device now features a separate iron audio adjustment function, which was absent in previous models.

The Garrett Ace Apex also includes 5-tone sound identification and a hybrid audio system with 2-tone proportional output. This advanced audio system enables users to identify key target characteristics based on the type of audio signal they hear. This level of audio feedback helps detectorists decide whether to thoroughly investigate a specific area or move on to a new location, making the detection process more efficient and intuitive.

Iron Audio

This function is especially useful for detectorists who want to avoid the constant low tones associated with iron targets, which can become annoying and distracting, particularly in trashy areas. By adjusting the iron audio volume, you can minimize the sound of these unwanted targets while maintaining the standard audio level for non-ferrous finds.

Garrett Ace Apex provides eight levels of volume control, offering one of the most flexible systems for managing iron audio in this price range. This feature allows for a more focused and enjoyable treasure hunting experience, as you can better distinguish valuable targets from iron clutter.

Discrimination

Discrimination is one of the key features that enhances a metal detector’s ability to distinguish between valuable targets, like gold nuggets or copper coins, and unwanted items, such as iron trash. Garrett Ace Apex offers a 20-segment discrimination scale, allowing you to fine-tune your searches by including or excluding certain types of metals.

Using the “+” and “–” buttons on the control panel, you can easily adjust the discrimination settings. This feature is particularly helpful when detecting in trash-laden areas, such as old homesteads, where iron objects like nails are common. If you frequently encounter unwanted targets made of the same metal, you can exclude them from your search range to avoid unnecessary digs. This system of adjusting discrimination helps you focus on finding valuable targets more efficiently.

The 20-segment discrimination system allows for precise adjustments, making Garrett Ace Apex suitable for a variety of treasure hunts, including searches for relics, coins, and jewelry. Additionally, the ability to switch between detecting specific metals without resetting the device ensures seamless transitions between different hunting environments, improving efficiency.

Sensitivity

Garrett Ace Apex offers eight adjustable sensitivity levels to optimize your metal detecting experience based on specific conditions and target types. When adjusting sensitivity, it’s essential to keep a few key factors in mind:

For small objects, like earrings or thin jewelry, it’s recommended to set the sensitivity to lower values. This will help focus on finding these delicate items without overwhelming the detector.
In areas with highly mineralized soil, decreasing the sensitivity helps reduce the occurrence of false signals caused by the minerals in the ground. This adjustment ensures smoother detecting and more accurate target identification.
If your goal is to search for deeper iron targets, setting the sensitivity to a higher level will improve the detector’s ability to reach deeper into the ground, increasing your chances of detecting objects buried at significant depths.
In situations where you rarely receive signals during the search, it’s a good idea to increase the sensitivity level. This will enhance the detector’s ability to pick up more subtle targets and improve the overall search efficiency.

Adjusting sensitivity levels in line with these considerations allows for a more targeted and successful metal detecting experience, enabling the device to perform well in various terrains and for different target types.

Ground balance

The Garrett Ace Apex features 175 ground balance values, providing a wide range of adjustments for different soil types. This function is crucial for efficient operation, as soil mineralization affects the detector’s ability to find metal targets. To maintain productivity and accuracy, ground balance can be adjusted in two ways:

Manual Ground Balance: This method is ideal for experienced users who prefer to fine-tune settings based on their specific location and conditions. By manually adjusting the balance, users can ensure optimal performance in challenging terrains.
Automatic Ground Balance: The device also offers an automatic option, where the detector analyzes the soil parameters and adjusts accordingly. This is especially helpful for beginners or when transitioning between different types of ground.

The Garrett Ace Apex excels in diverse environments, including saltwater beaches and highly mineralized soils, where ground conditions can be tricky. To perform ground balance, simply press and hold the ‘balance’ button while moving the search coil about 2-3 inches above the ground. This process allows the device to adjust and optimize its detection capability, ensuring that it works efficiently even in difficult soil conditions.

Conclusions

The Garrett Ace Apex represents a significant leap forward for Garrett, a company that had begun losing ground to competitors due to a lack of innovation in its product line. The Ace Apex addresses many concerns raised by users, such as the need for multi-frequency technology, enhanced discrimination features, and a more versatile coil. The introduction of the Garrett Z-LYNK wireless technology and a range of sensitivity and ground balance options also show that Garrett has been listening to its customers’ feedback.

Despite these advancements, the Ace Apex still faces challenges in competing with rival models, especially those from Minelab, such as the Vanquish and Equinox series. These competitors offer similar technologies but at a more affordable price point, raising the question of whether the Ace Apex can truly compete in the long run.

Strengths

Multi-Frequency Technology: The introduction of multi-frequency functionality is a major upgrade, making the Ace Apex competitive with models like the Minelab Vanquish and Equinox. This feature allows users to search in various environments, including saltwater beaches and mineralized soil, which is crucial for treasure hunters who work in different terrains.
Z-LYNK Wireless Technology: The inclusion of Garrett’s Z-LYNK wireless technology, which is six times faster than standard Bluetooth, is a notable improvement. It enhances user comfort by reducing lag and offering a more seamless detecting experience.
Viper Coil Design: The Viper coil is versatile, combining features of both larger and smaller DD coils. Its narrow profile makes it ideal for detecting in trashy areas, while still covering enough ground for efficient metal detecting in cleaner environments.
Advanced Discrimination Features: With 20 discrimination points, users can more accurately filter out unwanted signals, which is particularly useful in areas littered with iron trash. This flexibility makes it easier to focus on valuable targets.
Ground Balance Versatility: Offering both manual and automatic ground balance ensures that both beginners and advanced users can optimize their settings for different soil types, making the Ace Apex versatile for various environments.

Weaknesses

Not Fully Waterproof: While the control unit is rain-resistant, the fact that it is not fully submersible limits its use for more serious water detecting, a feature that competing models like the Minelab Equinox 600 and 800 provide.
Small Coil for Field Detecting: The 6×11-inch Viper coil, though excellent for trashy areas, is somewhat small for large open fields. Users looking for broader coverage in such environments may find this coil inadequate.
Lack of Interchangeability with Older Coils: While Garrett is developing additional coils for the Apex, the fact that existing coils from previous models are not interchangeable may be a drawback for users who own older Garrett models.

Competitors

Minelab Vanquish Series: The Vanquish series, particularly the Vanquish 540, offers multi-IQ technology at a competitive price. Minelab’s experience in multi-frequency detection gives it an edge, making Vanquish models a solid competitor.
Minelab Equinox Series: The Equinox 600 and 800 models are more advanced with fully waterproof designs and multi-frequency technology, offering strong competition to the Ace Apex. They are priced higher, but their additional features may justify the cost for serious detectorists.
Nokta Makro Simplex: Another rival is the Nokta Makro Simplex, which offers a fully waterproof design, wireless capability, and excellent detection features at a more affordable price point. This makes it attractive to beginners and intermediate users who want high-end features without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

Garrett’s Ace Apex is a highly capable and versatile metal detector that will appeal to a broad range of users, from beginners to seasoned hobbyists. Its multi-frequency technology, Z-LYNK wireless system, and improved discrimination features show that Garrett has been paying attention to the market. However, the lack of a fully waterproof design and the small coil size may deter some users, especially when compared to its closest competitors from Minelab. Whether the Ace Apex will maintain its competitive edge will depend largely on how well it performs in real-world conditions and its pricing strategy relative to the competition.