Garrett Ace 250 Metal Detector Review UK

I've spent years testing gear across the UK's diverse landscapes, and the Garrett Ace 250 consistently stands out as a reliable companion. It balances sophisticated features with a remarkably low price point, making it a staple for local enthusiasts.

However, a device's true worth isn't just in its specs, but in how it handles the harsh realities of the field. Let's see if this machine actually delivers on its reputation.

Garrett Ace 250 Unboxing & Initial Setup: 9/10

One simple unboxing reveals why the Garrett Ace 250 remains a beginner favorite. I’ve found the process incredibly streamlined, providing everything you need to start hunting right away. Inside the box, you’ll find the 6.5x9" PROformance waterproof searchcoil, the S-handle assembly, and an instructional DVD to guide your first steps. I appreciate that Garrett often includes four AA batteries, which I discovered pre-installed or tucked inside, letting me skip a trip to the shop.

Assembling the three-piece stem is tool-free and takes me less than five minutes. I just slide the control box cover off to check the power source, then hit the one-touch buttons. Since the five search modes are factory-preset, I can literally power it on and go. While basic bundles don’t include headphones, the setup is so intuitive and beginner-proof that I’m always impressed by how quickly I can start swinging.

Garrett Ace 250 Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 9/10

Weighing in at just 2.7 lbs, the Garrett Ace 250 feels remarkably light and balanced, making it a dream for long hunts in the field. I’ve found the adjustable S-handle particularly impressive; it extends from 42 to 51 inches, allowing me to find the perfect length for my height. The padded elbow rest provides excellent stability, ensuring my arm doesn't fatigue during a full afternoon of sweeping across the turf.

The build quality is surprisingly rugged for a budget-friendly machine. Its weather-resistant control housing feels solid, and the push-button pads are within easy reach of my thumb for quick adjustments. I also appreciate the large, clear LCD screen, which remains easy to read while I'm on the move. Every component fits together tightly without any annoying wobbles. It’s a tough, ergonomic piece of kit that’s built to withstand the rigours of regular outdoor use.

Garrett Ace 250 Key Features & Technology: 8/10

While it operates at a modest frequency of 6.5-7.2 kHz, the Garrett Ace 250 packs an impressive array of technology into an entry-level frame. I'm particularly fond of the five preset search modes: All-Metal, Jewelry, Relics, Coins, and a Custom setting that lets me save my preferred tweaks. The 12-segment notch discrimination and Visual Target ID cursor allow me to accept or reject specific metal types, saving time on bottle caps and nails.

The three-tone audio ID provides clear signals, while the eight sensitivity levels help me manage interference. I find the electronic pinpointing button indispensable; holding it down activates signal strength bars on the LCD to reveal a target’s exact center. Additionally, the continuous coin depth indicator accurately tracks items up to eight inches deep. Although it uses a factory-preset ground balance, these integrated tools provide sophisticated control for any beginner looking to master the basics.

Garrett Ace 250 In-the-Field Performance Review: 8/10

Although the Ace 250 sits at a budget price point, its performance in parks and on beaches consistently surprises me with its depth and accuracy. I regularly pull silver coins and relics from depths exceeding eight inches. The 6.5 x 9" PROformance coil slices through soil, while the three-tone audio ID provides clear signals before I even look at the screen. I find the electronic pinpointing exceptionally precise; it centers targets quickly using the signal strength bars, which saves me from digging oversized holes.

While I love its power, I’ve noticed the machine struggles slightly in highly mineralized ground. To combat falsing in trashy areas, I usually drop the sensitivity to roughly 60%. This adjustment stabilizes the detector without sacrificing much depth. The discrimination settings effectively ignore iron pull-tabs, allowing me to focus on high-conductivity treasures. It’s a reliable workhorse that hits hard on most targets.

Garrett Ace 250 User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

One of the biggest advantages of the Garrett Ace 250 is how effortlessly you can master it within your first few outings. I’ve found that the intuitive push-button interface removes the intimidation factor often associated with hobbyist electronics. You aren't bogged down by complex manuals; instead, the clear LCD guides you through five pre-set search modes with instant visual feedback.

Mastering the pinpointing function and sensitivity settings happens quickly through trial and error in the field. I appreciate how the three-tone audio ID and 12-segment discrimination cursor work together to teach you what’s beneath the coil before you even dig. If you want a tailored experience, the Custom mode lets you save your preferred settings for future hunts. It’s an incredibly engaging machine that provides a shallow learning curve. While you’ll need to tweak sensitivity to avoid falsing in tough soil, the overall experience remains straightforward and fun.

Garrett Ace 250 Value For Money: 9/10

Since it delivers features like electronic pinpointing and a 12-segment depth meter at such a low price point, I consider the Garrett Ace 250 a reigning king of budget detectors. You won't often find this level of sophisticated notch discrimination or a dedicated pinpoint mode in other entry-level machines. It's rare to see a device that balances cost so effectively against actual field utility.

I'm impressed by the inclusion of a two-year warranty, which provides long-term peace of mind that's often missing from cheaper alternatives. While it lacks the high-end tech required for mineralised ground, the return on investment for a beginner is massive. You're getting a waterproof searchcoil and five versatile search modes without a pro-level price tag. It outperforms its peers by offering reliable performance that lasts for years. For anyone starting their detecting journey, this machine offers an unbeatable balance of affordability and essential features.