Garrett Ace 300i Metal Detector Review UK

I've spent weeks testing the Garrett Ace 300i across various UK terrains to see if it lives up to its reputation. While its lightweight frame makes it easy to handle, the 8 kHz frequency truly changes how you'll scan for hammered coins.

I've broken down every feature and field test result, but one specific setting proved more critical than I initially realized.

Garrett Ace 300i Unboxing & Initial Setup: 8/10

While unboxing the Garrett Ace 300i, I found a impressively complete kit that includes the 7" x 10" waterproof PROformance search coil, ClearSound headphones, a coil cover, an environmental cover, and four AA batteries. I love that Garrett provides everything you need to start hunting immediately. Putting the unit together feels like a breeze. I simply connected the adjustable stem and secured the camlocks, which instantly tightened the poles for a wobble-free experience.

The manual offers clear, jargon-free instructions for the power-on sequence. I popped the batteries into the housing and held the power button for one second to get things moving. Since it features last-mode memory and an automatic ground balance, I didn’t have to waste time fiddling with complex calibrations. I just adjusted the sensitivity using the intuitive buttons and chose my mode. It’s a fast, beginner-friendly setup that got me into the field within minutes.

Garrett Ace 300i Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 7/10

When I first picked up the Garrett Ace 300i, I noticed its 2.8-pound frame strikes a decent balance between durability and portability. While it’s light enough for short excursions, I found the weight becomes noticeable during marathon hunting sessions. The adjustable stem, ranging from 42 to 51 inches, accommodates different heights comfortably, and the added camlocks provide impressive stability. These locks stop the frustrating rod wobble I’ve experienced with cheaper models.

The build relies on sturdy plastics, though the handle lacks a premium padded grip, which can lead to hand fatigue over time. I appreciate the clear LCD display; it’s easy to read in direct sunlight, though it lacks a backlight for evening hunts. Its 7" x 10" PROformance search coil feels rugged, and the included cover adds essential protection against scrapes. Overall, it’s a solid, functional design that prioritizes reliability over high-end materials.

Garrett Ace 300i Key Features & Technology: 8/10

The Garrett Ace 300i packs five distinct search modes—All Metal, Coins, Jewelry, Relics, and Custom—that give you plenty of versatility right out of the box. I’m particularly impressed by the enhanced 8 kHz frequency. It’s a noticeable step up from older models, offering much better sensitivity to low-conduction metals like gold and lead. To help you filter out trash, I use the digital target ID system, which ranges from 0 to 99, alongside 12 discrimination segments.

The inclusion of iron resolution is a game changer for me when I’m working through iron-heavy ground. I can easily adjust the eight sensitivity levels to match the soil conditions I’m facing. Plus, the electronic pinpointing feature saves me heaps of time by centering the coil directly over my target. I also appreciate the pulse-width modulation audio; it delivers sharp, responsive signals that make distinguishing between different metal types much simpler.

Garrett Ace 300i In-the-Field Performance Review: 8/10

Although I’ve used many entry-level machines, the Ace 300i’s field performance stands out because it strikes a great balance between coverage and precision. Its 8 kHz frequency effectively sniffs out low-to-medium conductivity targets, making it a reliable companion for coin shooting in local parks. I’ve found that the 7" x 10" PROformance coil covers ground quickly while maintaining impressive sensitivity. When I’m hunting in "trashy" sites, the iron resolution really shines, preventing iron masking from hiding valuable jewelry.

The electronic pinpointing is a game-changer for speed; it centers targets instantly, so I’m not digging massive holes. While its depth capacity might struggle with tiny relics buried deep in mineralized soil, it consistently hits coins several inches down. Even on dry sandy beaches, the auto ground tracking keeps signals stable. It outperforms the older Ace 250, providing a confidence-boosting experience that delivers solid finds without frustrating false signals.

Garrett Ace 300i User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

Since I’ve guided many beginners through their first hunts, I can confidently say the Ace 300i offers one of the shallowest learning curves on the market. You won’t feel overwhelmed by complex menus because the interface relies on intuitive, dedicated buttons. I simply cycle through the five search modes with one press. The digital target ID, ranging from 0 to 99, provides immediate visual feedback that’s easy to interpret alongside the three distinct audio tones.

I love how it remembers my last settings, so I’m ready to swing the moment I power it up. Mastery comes quickly; after just an hour, you’ll distinguish between trash and treasure using the notch discrimination. The electronic pinpointing is a standout for me, as it centers targets precisely to minimize digging time. It’s a straightforward, "switch on and go" machine that empowers you to hunt effectively without a steep technical climb.

Garrett Ace 300i Value For Money: 9/10

One major reason I recommend this machine is the sheer amount of kit you get for the price. When you buy the Garrett Ace 300i, you aren't just getting the detector; the box includes ClearSound headphones, a search coil cover, and an environmental housing cover. These extras save you a significant amount of cash upfront since you won't need to purchase them separately to protect your investment.

Beyond the accessories, the tech upgrades over the older Ace 250 justify every penny. I find the larger 7" x 10" waterproof coil and the enhanced iron resolution offer performance that rivals much pricier models. You're getting professional-grade features like digital target ID and frequency transparency at an entry-level cost. While serious enthusiasts might eventually crave more depth, the price-to-performance ratio for a beginner is unbeatable. It’s a robust, feature-rich package that provides genuine utility and longevity for any hobbyist.