Garrett Ace 150 Metal Detector Review UK

I've spent weeks testing the Garrett Ace 150 across various UK terrains to see if this budget-friendly machine actually delivers. While its lightweight frame and simple interface make it an attractive pick for newcomers, performance in the field is what truly matters.

I found a few surprises during my time with it that might change how you view entry-level gear.

Garrett Ace 150 Unboxing & Initial Setup: 9/10

One look at the Garrett Ace 150’s packaging and you’ll see why it earns a 9/10 for setup. I found the process incredibly streamlined because Garrett includes four AA batteries right in the box. I didn't have to hunt through my junk drawer before heading outside. The 6.5x9" Rhino Tough PROformance searchcoil comes ready for action, and I put the entire unit together in just a few minutes.

The "Touch-n-Go" technology really impressed me. I just tapped the power button, and the large LCD sprang to life instantly. Navigating the three search modes—All Metal, Jewelry, and Coins—is totally intuitive. I didn't need to study a dense manual to understand the interface; I simply adjusted the sensitivity and started swinging. It’s perfect if you want to skip complex menus. This hassle-free experience means you spend your time hunting treasures rather than fumbling with assembly or settings.

Garrett Ace 150 Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 8/10

While it feels incredibly lightweight at just 2.7 lbs, the Garrett Ace 150 doesn’t sacrifice any ruggeness for its portability. I’ve found its sporty, bright yellow chassis surprisingly "built like a tank." The S-shaped handle fits naturally in my hand, and the padded grip ensures I don't suffer from arm fatigue during long sessions in the park. Its adjustable length, ranging from 42 to 51 inches, makes it versatile enough for me to share with my kids without hassle.

The 6.5x9" PROformance searchcoil is epoxy-filled, meaning it handles impacts against rocks or roots with ease. I appreciate the large, clear LCD screen that stays visible even when the sun hits it directly. While the stem locks could be slightly tighter for rougher terrains, the overall balance feels excellent. It’s a sturdy, well-engineered machine that proves entry-level gear can still offer professional-grade durability and comfort.

Garrett Ace 150 Key Features & Technology: 7/10

Simplicity drives the Garrett Ace 150, but don't let the three-button interface fool you into thinking it's underpowered. I've found its 6.5 kHz VLF technology provides a stable foundation for finding coins and jewelry. You’ll navigate across three distinct search modes—All Metal, Jewelry, and Coins—which use pre-set discrimination patterns to filter out common iron junk. The LCD includes a five-segment Graphic Target ID cursor that helps you visualize what’s beneath the coil before you dig.

I appreciate the three-tone audio ID system; a high "bell" tone signals high-conductivity targets like silver, while lower pitches identify iron or foil. You can also adjust sensitivity across four levels to manage ground interference. While it lacks a dedicated pinpoint button and manual ground balance, the visual depth indicator accurately tracks targets down to six inches. It’s a focused, effective tech suite that prioritizes ease of use over complex menu diving.

Garrett Ace 150 In-the-Field Performance Review: 7/10

Although it lacks the raw power of professional rigs, the Garrett Ace 150 delivers surprisingly reliable results in the field. I’ve found it remarkably accurate when hunting for coins and jewelry in local parks or dry sandy beaches. It consistently hits targets at depths of six to eight inches in stable soil. The cursor and three-tone ID system work in harmony, helping me identify silver and copper effortlessly.

However, the lack of a dedicated pinpoint button means I have to "X" over targets to find the center, often resulting in larger plugs than I’d like. While it manages moderate mineralization well, it gets chatty in trashy areas or highly conductive ground. It lacks manual ground balance, so I sometimes struggle with false signals near the surf. Despite these limitations, it successfully discriminates against iron nails and pull tabs, making my sessions productive and genuinely rewarding for a budget-friendly machine.

Garrett Ace 150 User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

The user-friendly interface makes this machine an absolute breeze to master, even if you’ve never held a detector before. I found that I could navigate the entire system using just three simple buttons: Mode, Sensitivity, and Power. Within five minutes of unboxing, I was already swinging away with total confidence. The large LCD screen provides clear visual cues, featuring a target ID legend and a depth scale that intuitively teaches you how different metals react.

I love the auditory feedback; the clear speaker emits distinct tones that distinguish between iron and coins instantly. This feedback loop quickly trains your ears, flattening the learning curve for beginners or children. While it lacks a dedicated pinpoint button, necessitating a bit of practice to center targets, the overall experience remains incredibly rewarding. I’ve enjoyed long sessions without any frustration, thanks to the impressive battery life and the machine’s straightforward, reliable nature.

Garrett Ace 150 Value For Money: 9/10

Finding a detector that doesn't sacrifice build quality for a budget-friendly price point is a rare win, yet the Garrett Ace 150 delivers exactly that. I’ve tested countless entry-level machines, and this one consistently punches above its weight. For under £150, you're getting a rugged, American-engineered tool rather than a flimsy toy. Garrett even includes a two-year warranty and a pair of AA batteries to get you started immediately, which I reckon is a massive plus for your wallet.

While it lacks a dedicated pinpoint button, the sheer durability of the Rhino Tough coil ensures you won’t be spending extra on repairs or replacements anytime soon. It's an upgradable platform, too, meaning you can swap coils as you grow. If you're looking for the best bang-for-your-buck entry into the hobby, I truly believe you'll struggle to find a more reliable investment than this iconic yellow machine.