Garrett ACE 400 Review

Garrett ACE 400

The Garrett ACE 400 metal detector is arguably one of the best detectors for beginners, as well as intermediate metal detectorists on the market today.

This budget friendly metal detector was built to perform with excellence at a great price! Continue reading to learn more about the features and benefits of the Garrett ACE 400.

Operating Frequency

The Garrett ACE 400 runs at an operating frequency of 10 kHz, which is a great frequency. Essentially, the higher frequency is, the more sensitive the machine is, but it gives up some detection depth.

The lower the frequency is, the more detection depth you will get, but the less sensitivity. The 10 kHz operating frequency is great for an all-around, utilitarian metal detector, and we believe this will suit most detectorists just fine!

Search Modes

The 400 comes with five different search modes, as well as a pinpointer mode. These modes include jewelry mode, coins mode, relic hunting mode, zero discrimination (all-metal) mode, and a custom mode.

We love the custom mode, as you can set whatever settings you want, and the detector will always keep those settings while in custom mode. In addition, the pinpointing mode helps cut down target recovery speeds by large margins.

Exclusive Features

The ACE 400 features 12 segment notch discrimination, making it easy to save time by not digging metals you do not want to find.

In addition, the ACE features Iron Audio, a Garrett exclusive feature, that allows you to hear the discriminated iron in order to be able to hear whether a signal is good, or if it is a washer or bottle cap.

Ground balancing is always a big issue when it comes to metal detecting, particularly in highly mineralized soils that cause much magnetic and electrical interference.

The Garrett ACE 400 features a fixed ground balance set up, which is perfectly suitable (and more simple) for most treasure hunting environments.

The Garrett ACE 400 features a weatherproof control box, but the control box is not submersible and cannot be put underwater.

With that being said, the search coil and stem are waterproof, so they can be submerged for any treasure hunting by the water’s edge. Waterproof coils are always a nice feature!

Search Coils

The Garrett ACE 400 is the only metal detector in the original ACE series that comes stock with an 8.5″ x 11″ PROformance DD search coil. We love DD PROformance search coils because they provide an increased detection depth, and also allow treasure hunters to cover more ground in less time.

There are many additional search coils that are compatible with the Garrett ACE 400 for certain scenarios.

Armrest/Ergonomics

Our favorite ergonomic feature of this detector is its light weight! Weighing in at only 2.9 pounds, we believe most metal detectorists will have no problem swinging the 400 all day long!

Beyond the weight, the armrest of the Garrett ACE 400 is adjustable, allowing you maximum control over the length you work with.

The elbow support piece has a soft foam coating on it, making it comfortable to use for long periods of time. The texturized rubber grip provides great grip even in wet conditions.

Battery Life

This Garrett metal detector runs on 4 AA batteries, and generally provides anywhere from 20-40 hours of battery life. We love being able to run this for many hunts and not have to change the batteries!

Garrett ACE 400 vs Garrett AT Max: Which Metal Detector Is Best for You?

When trying to decide between the Garrett ACE 400 vs AT Max, there are many variables to keep in mind that could make the difference between you enjoying your metal detecting experience or not! Making this decision depends on what you are looking for in a metal detector.

In most cases, experienced detectorists would likely be better suited with the Garrett AT Max, to where newer hobbyists might want to pick up a Garrett ACE 400.

Enjoy our in-depth review of each metal detector, along with a section that will help you weigh out the features and benefits of each detector.