If you’re looking for an affordable yet high-performing metal detector under £300 (or the best metal detector under £300), the Garrett ACE 300i is a standout option in this price range. This entry-level detector is packed with impressive features that make it a fantastic choice for beginners and hobbyists without breaking the bank. In this review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, and overall value that the ACE 300i offers.
Design and Build Quality:
The Garrett ACE 300i boasts a sturdy, ergonomic design that’s both lightweight and comfortable to use for extended detecting sessions. Weighing only 2.5 lbs (1.13 kg), it’s easy to handle and carry around. The adjustable shaft can accommodate users of all heights, ensuring a comfortable fit for both adults and younger users.
Its design is simple yet durable, featuring a weather-resistant construction that can withstand light rain or wet conditions, making it suitable for a variety of environments. While it’s not fully waterproof, the 8” x 11” DD coil is designed to handle some exposure to the elements, giving it versatility for use on beaches or in parks.
Performance and Sensitivity:
The Garrett ACE 300i delivers solid performance for its price point. Equipped with a VLF (Very Low Frequency) operating system, it offers impressive sensitivity to a wide range of metals, from coins to jewelry. The detector offers 4 search modes (including Coins, Jewellery, Relics, and All-Metal), making it versatile enough for a variety of environments and hunting scenarios. The Sensitivity Adjustment also allows users to fine-tune the detector to suit different ground conditions, ensuring optimal performance.
Its True Tone Audio provides clear audio feedback that helps you easily distinguish between different targets. The ACE 300i also includes Target ID numbers that display on the screen, helping you identify the probable type of metal detected, which is incredibly useful for deciding whether to dig.
Target Identification and Discrimination:
One of the most significant benefits of the ACE 300i is its advanced target identification system. The detector features a digital target ID system that assigns a numerical value to each target, ranging from 0 to 99. This allows you to better assess the potential value of the target before you decide to dig. Additionally, the discrimination settings help filter out unwanted metals like iron and trash, which reduces the number of false signals and increases your chances of finding valuable targets.
For beginners, the visual display on the screen shows a target depth indicator along with the target ID, which helps you gauge whether the target is shallow or deep, giving you more confidence before you start digging.
Ease of Use and Features:
The Garrett ACE 300i is incredibly user-friendly, designed with both beginners and experienced detectorists in mind. The simple interface and intuitive controls make it easy for new users to get started right away. The LCD screen provides all the essential information, including target ID, depth, sensitivity, and mode, in a clear and easy-to-read format.
The Iron Audio feature is another helpful addition, allowing users to hear iron targets at a lower tone, making it easier to distinguish between valuable items and junk. The ACE 300i also includes volume control, so you can adjust the sound according to your preference.
Battery Life:
The ACE 300i runs on 4 AA batteries, which provide up to 20-25 hours of detecting time. Battery life is generally solid, and because the detector runs on standard AA batteries, they’re easy to replace, and you won’t have to worry about special charging equipment.
Final Thoughts:
The Garrett ACE 300i is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance metal detector under £300. It combines ease of use with advanced features like target identification, adjustable sensitivity, and Iron Audio to ensure you get the most out of your detecting experience. The solid performance in a variety of conditions, paired with its lightweight design, makes it perfect for beginners and hobbyists who are just starting their treasure-hunting journey.
While the ACE 300i may not have all the high-end features of more expensive detectors, it offers great value for the price. If you’re looking for a reliable, user-friendly detector that won’t break the bank, the Garrett ACE 300i is one of the best options available in the under £300 category.
Pros:
- Excellent target identification with digital ID and depth display
- User-friendly with simple controls and intuitive interface
- Adjustable sensitivity for different ground conditions
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Good battery life (up to 20-25 hours)
- Features like Iron Audio and Discrimination to reduce unwanted signals
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof (coil is water-resistant but the control box is not)
- Lacks some advanced features (like multi-frequency) found in higher-end models