Over the summer, Garrett released its newest addition to the AT Series of metal detectors; the Garrett AT Max. The Garrett AT Max joins the Garrett AT Pro and the Garrett AT Gold as the third installment in a series of excellent waterproof metal detectors. However, you may find yourself asking what exactly the difference is between all three of these metal detectors. This all depends on what you are looking to use your metal detector for: gold hunting, relic & coin hunting, jewelry hunting, or beach hunting, etc. There are several key differences between the three metal detectors that will help you narrow down which metal detector best suits your needs. Below is a side-by-side break-down of each metal detector's specifications and key features.
Garrett AT PRO / AT GOLD / AT MAX Comparison Chart
| SPECIFICATIONS | GARRETT AT MAX | GARRETT AT PRO | GARRETT AT GOLD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Output: | Built-In Z-Lynk Wireless Technology | Stereo/Mono Wired Headphones | Stereo/Mono Wired Headphones |
| Headphones: | Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones | MS-2 Headphones | MS-2 Headphones |
| Operating Frequency: | 13.6 kHz | 15 kHz | 18 kHz |
| Weight: | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs) | 3.03 lbs (1.4 kgs.) | 3.03 lbs. (1.4 kgs.) |
| Search Coil Type: | 8.5x 11″ DD PROformance | 8.5″ x 11″ DD PROformance | 5″ x 8″ ( 14x20cm) DD PROformance™ |
| Ground Balance: | Automatic, Manual | Manual | Automatic, Manual |
| Search Modes: | 4 (All Pro Audio) | 6 (3 Standard, 3 Pro Modes) | 3 |
| Search Mode Types: | All Metal, Custom, Zero Discrimination Modes | All Metal, Coins, Custom, Plus (3) Pro Modes | True All Metal Mode, 2 Discrimination Modes |
| Waterproof: | Yes (up to 10 feet) | Yes (up to 10 feet) | Yes (up to 10 feet) |
In summary, the Garrett AT Max has a feature that neither the Garrett AT Pro or Garrett AT Gold have: built-in Z-Lynk wireless audio technology. This technology is faster than old Bluetooth technologies and allows for a cordless connection from your headphones to your metal detector. However, the AT Max has a lower operating frequency compared to the AT Pro and the AT Gold. The Garrett AT Gold has the highest sensitivity (18 kHz), making it the best option for finding small gold pieces and other low conductors. However, the Garrett AT Pro is a more all-around metal detector with its Pro Zero Mode with the discrimination setting set at 31. The Garrett AT Max does not feature the "Pro Mode" but includes the same features within its normal search modes (tone roll, proportional audio, pulse with modulation). The Garrett AT Max and the Garrett AT Gold feature a True All-Metal Mode, which give them deeper modes than the AT Pro. The AT Pro & AT Max can ground balance to salt; the AT Gold cannot. If you're looking to hunt gold or low conductor metals (chains, buttons, etc.), the Garrett AT Gold is an excellent metal detector. If you're looking for an all-around metal detector with great performance, the Garrett AT Max and Garrett AT Pro are perfect options. Be sure to check out Serious Detecting's variety of bundles for the Garrett AT Max, Garrett AT Pro, and Garrett AT Gold metal detectors!
