Both Garrett metal detectors are high-quality, waterproof devices with similar core features, but they’re optimized for different detecting purposes – the AT Gold specializes in gold prospecting (18 kHz frequency), while the AT Pro is a more versatile all-terrain detector (15 kHz frequency) better suited for general treasure hunting.
Key Wins
- Garrett AT Gold: ✓ Optimal gold nugget detection, high 18 kHz frequency
- Garrett AT Pro: ✓ Multi-terrain versatility, 6 search modes, precise metal discrimination
AT Pro - Ave. Rating 4.7
Overview
The Garrett A.T. Gold and Garrett AT Pro are both professional-grade metal detectors from the renowned American manufacturer Garrett Metal Detectors, designed to cater to different detecting specialties. The A.T. Gold is specifically optimized for gold prospecting with its higher 18 kHz frequency, making it ideal for finding small gold nuggets and jewelry, while the AT Pro is a more versatile, all-terrain detector targeting intermediate to advanced metal detecting enthusiasts seeking a robust, waterproof…
Features Comparison
| Feature | Garrett AT Gold | Garrett AT Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Garrett | Garrett |
| Release Year | 2011 | 2010 |
| Price Range | $639.99 – $699.99 | $582.99 – $685.82 |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
| Operating Frequency | 18 kHz | 15 kHz |
| Detection Technology | VLF | VLF |
| Weight | 2.8 – 3.03 lbs | 3.03 lbs |
| Adjustable Length | 42″-51″ | 42″-51″ |
| Search Modes | 3 | 6 |
| Waterproof Rating | IP541, up to 10 feet | Up to 10 feet |
| Specialized Use | Gold Prospecting | General Metal Detecting |
| User Rating | 4.3/5 | 4.6/5 |
Features Comparison
Key Observations
- Both detectors share many core Garrett technologies
- AT Gold is more specialized for gold prospecting
- AT Pro offers more search modes
- Slight frequency difference (18 kHz vs 15 kHz)
- Similar physical characteristics
- Comparable price points
Pricing Comparison
Price Difference: Approximately $36
Percentage Difference: ~5.7% higher for AT Gold
Garrett AT Gold
- Price Range: $639.99 – $699.99
- Average Price: ~$670
Price Difference: Approximately $36
Percentage Difference: ~5.7% higher for AT Gold
Garrett AT Pro
- Price Range: $582.99 – $685.82
- Average Price: ~$634
Price Difference: Approximately $36
Percentage Difference: ~5.7% higher for AT Gold
Pros and Cons
Garrett AT Gold Metal Detector
Pros:
– Optimal 18 kHz frequency for gold prospecting
– Fully waterproof up to 10 feet
– Lightweight with adjustable length
– Multiple search modes
– High-resolution Iron Discrimination
Cons:
– Not recommended for saltwater use
– Non-updatable software
– No wireless headphone compatibility
– Potential learning curve for beginners
Garrett AT Pro Metal Detector
Pros:
– Versatile multi-terrain performance
– Fully waterproof up to 10 feet
– 6 comprehensive search modes
– High-resolution Iron Discrimination
– Precise digital target identification
Cons:
– Potentially complex for novice users
– Higher price point
– Single frequency operation
– No wireless headphone support
Unique Benefits
Garrett AT Gold Unique Benefits
- Specifically optimized for gold prospecting
- More precise for finding small gold nuggets
- Includes specialized 5″x8″ DD Proformance coil
- 8 sensitivity levels for fine-tuning gold detection
- High-Resolution Iron Discrimination
Garrett AT Pro Unique Benefits
- 6 comprehensive search modes
- Proportional Audio and Tone Roll technology
- Higher recovery speed
- Designed for broader metal detecting applications
- More versatile across different detecting environments
Final Recommendation
Recommended Use Cases
- Gold Prospecting: WINNER — Garrett AT Gold
- Beach/Water Detecting: WINNER — Garrett AT Pro
- Coin and Relic Hunting: WINNER — Garrett AT Pro
- Beginner-Friendly: WINNER — Garrett AT Gold
- Advanced/Serious Detecting: WINNER — Garrett AT Pro
Final Verdict
Both detectors are high-quality Garrett products with strong performance. Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific detecting goals, budget, and expertise level.
Pro Tip: Consider your primary detecting environment and target objects when making your final decision.
AT Gold - Ave. Rating 4.3
