The Garrett Ace range has been a favorite among entry-level detectorists for years, known for their robust design and ease of use. The top-of-the-range model, the Ace 400i, is the most expensive in the range but still one of the more affordable options. With more features and customization options than the 300i and 200i models, it’s perfect for beginners or kids.

The build quality of the 400i is solid and it has a comfortable design. It comes with an inbuilt pinpointer and pre-bundled wired headphones, and has a larger search coil than the other models in the range. The introduction of “Iron Audio” makes it easier to identify unwanted iron targets, reducing the likelihood of digging them up.

The 400i is not the best-balanced machine and may feel heavy after extended use. It’s not recommended for use on beaches, so it’s best used as a land detector.

Overall, the Garrett Ace 400i is a good starting machine, but it’s not the best option for the price. The 300i offers similar performance for nearly £100 less and there are other machines that perform better for a little more money. The Iron Audio is a welcome addition, but it’s a standard feature on many other brands. For other starter options, consider the Nokta Makro Simplex and Minelab Vanquish range.

Check out our handy comparison chart for a comparison of the different Garrett models. For detailed technical specifications, visit the Garrett website.