Garrett Vortex VX5 Metal Detector Review UK

I’ve put the Garrett Vortex VX5 through its paces to see if it suits the average UK detectorist. Its telescopic, waterproof build and Multi-Dimensional Multi-Frequency tech offer distinct travel advantages.

The display is intuitive and the depth on coins is competitive, yet the nose-heavy ergonomics eventually take a toll. While capable, there’s a critical omission regarding recovery speed that you must understand before making a purchase.

Garrett Vortex VX5 Unboxing & Initial Setup: 8/10

Because the standout collapsible shaft design keeps the unit mostly pre-assembled, I found the initial setup incredibly fast and hassle-free.

You won't struggle with complex wiring or confusing pole sections unlike with other machines. I simply attached the submersible 8.5" x 11" Raider coil, secured the provided coil cover, and adjusted the armrest to fit my forearm. Inside the box, you’ll find a USB-C charging cable, essential for the rechargeable battery.

However, I noticed the package lacks headphones, which feels like a slight oversight for a complete starter pack. Fortunately, the included Quick Start Guide is clear and concise, letting me start detecting within minutes without needing the full digital manual immediately. The unit collapses down to 24.75 inches right out of the box, making it incredibly travel-friendly. Visually, it’s a massive leap forward from the older Ace series, offering a sleek, modern aesthetic that immediately impressed me.

Garrett Vortex VX5 Design, Build Quality & Ergonomics: 7/10

Backpackers will appreciate the fully telescopic shaft, a standout design feature that retracts easily for storage without requiring any disassembly. It collapses very quickly, saving you the hassle of managing loose cables. I’m also impressed by the rugged build; the camlocks are sturdy, and the armrest handles abuse well. Another definite plus is the complete waterproofing.

You can submerge the VX5 up to 16 feet, making it perfect for shallow diving or searching riverbeds. The backlit LCD screen is sharp, ensuring you can read the high-contrast display in bright sunlight or low light. However, I can’t ignore the balance issues. Although the total weight sits around 3 lbs, the detector feels distinctly nose-heavy. I found this uneven distribution causes noticeable forearm fatigue during long swing sessions. It’s a solid, durable piece of kit, but the ergonomics don't quite match the excellent portability, holding the score back slightly.

Garrett Vortex VX5 Key Features & Technology: 7/10

Powering the VX5 is Garrett’s "Multi-Dimensional Multi-Frequency" (MD-MF) technology, which improves accuracy by analyzing targets on both conductivity and ferrous scales simultaneously. Beyond this core tech, you access simultaneous Multi-Frequency operation alongside a single 13 kHz frequency option, providing decent versatility for varying ground conditions in the UK.

I appreciate the simplicity of the four preset search modes—Zero, Standard, US Coins, and Custom—which cover most detecting scenarios effectively.

The VX5’s distinct selling point, however, is its expandable upgrade path. The unit is hardware-ready, meaning you can pay to unlock VX7 or VX9 software later, adding frequencies and sensitivity tiers without buying a new physical machine. That said, as the base model, I find the feature set intentionally restricted.

You won’t find Garrett’s Z-Lynk wireless audio, adjustable recovery speeds, or dedicated multi-salt modes included. It’s a solid foundation, but it leaves clear space for those paid future digital upgrades.

Garrett Vortex VX5 In-the-Field Performance Review: 7/10

While the upgradable operating system draws headlines, the VX5 proves its worth by delivering respectable detection depth in neutral soil, reliably hitting coin-sized targets at 6–9 inches. The 0-99 Target ID scale generally remains stable, though I've noticed numbers get jumpy on deeper finds compared to high-end rivals. Its fixed "Fast" recovery speed effectively picks non-ferrous treasures out of trashy parks, but it isn't adjustable like the upper-tier models.

I definitely appreciate the Iron Audio feature here; hearing the distinct "grunt" of rusted bottle caps saves me from digging up unnecessary iron junk. For beach hunting, the detector handles wet salt sand reasonably well in Multi-Frequency mode.

However, you'll likely miss the dedicated "Multi-Salt" setting unless you pay extra to upgrade to the VX7 or VX9 tiers. Ultimately, it’s a capable performer for general use, but I can surely feel that it leaves some raw power in reserve.

Garrett Vortex VX5 User Experience & Learning Curve: 9/10

Why does the VX5 earn such high marks for usability? Simply put, Garrett designed this interface so you can grab the detector and go without needing an engineering degree. I found the plug-and-play nature fantastic; you just turn it on, select "Standard" search mode, and start swinging immediately. The menu is incredibly intuitive, ditching the overwhelming sub-menus found on rival machines for clear, easy-to-read icons.

I also appreciate the distinct three-tone audio feedback, which quickly taught me to distinguish between iron grunts and valuable high conductors like silver. You won't struggle with buying AA batteries either, thanks to the convenient USB-C charging port that delivers approximately 15 hours of runtime.

Even the PC-based update process is straightforward if you eventually decide to unlock the higher-tier configurations. It makes for a seamless, streamlined experience that co

mpletely removes the intimidation factor for beginners while satisfying seasoned hunters who want simplicity.

Garrett Vortex VX5 Value For Money: 7/10

The VX5 competes directly with the Minelab Vanquish 540 and Nokta Double Score, providing solid specifications for the dollar. The most unique value proposition here is the upgradeable software.

Unlike other machines where you're stuck with what you bought, the VX5 allows you to unlock VX7 or VX9 features later via a paid download. This future-proofing saves you cash in the long run since you won't need to purchase entirely new hardware to get advanced settings. However, I find the value takes a hit regarding accessories.

The base package lacks wireless headphones and, critically, Z-Lynk support is locked away. If you want a wireless setup, you'll need to spend extra immediately. Being a newer model with an upgradable OS, I expect it will hold its resale value well. Furthermore, Garrett includes a three-year warranty, which adds significant peace of mind to your investment compared to cheaper alternatives with shorter coverage.