Garrett AT Max vs Garrett AT Pro – Which Metal Detector Is Better?

Garrett's AT series is one of the most trusted metal detector brands for enthusiasts who need a machine that works in a variety of settings. The Garrett AT Pro and the Garrett AT Max are two of the most often compared devices in this group.

Both detectors are part of Garrett's All-Terrain (AT) line, which means they can be used in a wide range of environments, including parks, fields, rivers, and shallow freshwater areas. Each detector also has features like being waterproof, being able to tell the difference between iron and other metals and being able to identify digital targets.

Even though these machines are very similar, the AT Max is a newer generation detector with more features, like wireless audio and better ground balance.

Knowing the distinctions between the two models will help you choose the one that works best for the way you like to detect.

Garrett AT Max vs Garrett AT Pro: Quick Answer

The Garrett AT Pro is a metal detector that can be used for finding coins, relics, and other treasures. The Garrett AT Max has updated features like wireless audio, a lighted screen, and better ground balance.

The AT Pro is a great choice for most hobbyists because it works well and costs less. The AT Max has more functions and a slightly better detection depth.

Garrett AT Max vs Garrett AT Pro: Quick Comparison

Here’s a simple overview of how the two detectors compare.

Both detectors are waterproof and designed for all-terrain metal detecting, making them suitable for land and freshwater hunting. 

Garrett AT Pro Overview

For many years, hobbyists have loved the Garrett AT Pro metal detector, one of the most popular all-terrain metal detectors for coin and relic hunting.

It is made to be a general-purpose detector that can find coins, jewelry, relics, and other metal artefacts in a wide range of places.

Key Features

• 15 kHz frequency of operation for balanced depth and sensitivity

• Pro Mode audio that gives you clear target tones

• The Iron Audio function for finding iron rubbish

• Notch discrimination to get rid of targets you don't want

• Design that is waterproof up to 10 feet

The AT Pro is commonly suggested for detectorists who want a machine that can do a lot of different kinds of detecting because it is both affordable and high performing.

 

Garrett AT Max Overview

The Garrett AT Max came out in 2017 as a better version of the AT Pro. It builds on what the old model had and adds new technology to make it work better and easier to use.

The AT Max is for enthusiasts who want a more advanced machine but don't want to spend a lot of money on professional detectors.

Key Features

• Operating frequency of 13.6 kHz for better depth

• Z-Lynk wireless technology is built in for wireless headphones.

• LCD screen with a backlight for seeing in the dark

• True All-Metal mode for the most sensitivity

• Ground balance can be done automatically or by hand

These improvements make the AT Max a great choice for detectorists who desire better performance and updated features.

Key Differences Between Garrett AT Max and AT Pro

Although the two detectors look similar, several key differences separate them.

Operating Frequency

The frequency at which a metal detector works affects how it reacts to different types of objects.

15 kHz AT Pro

13.6 kHz AT Max

Higher frequencies are usually better at picking up tiny targets, whereas slightly lower frequencies can help find larger items deeper.

This means that the AT Pro may be better at finding little targets, whereas the AT Max can sometimes find things deeper.

Wireless Technology

One of the biggest upgrades in the AT Max is Z-Lynk wireless technology.

This allows the detector to connect to wireless headphones without noticeable delay.

Benefits include:

• No headphone cable while detecting

• Improved comfort during long hunts

• Faster audio response

The AT Pro does not include built-in wireless technology.

Display and Night Detecting

Another improvement in the AT Max is the backlit display.

This allows the detector screen to remain visible during:

• Early morning hunts

• Evening detecting

• Low-light conditions

The AT Pro uses a standard LCD without backlighting.

Ground Balance System

Both detectors include automatic and manual ground balance. However, the AT Max also includes ground balance window adjustments, which help improve performance in difficult soil conditions such as mineralized ground or salt environments. 

Performance Comparison in the Field

Different detectors perform better depending on the environment.

Here’s how the AT Max and AT Pro compare in common detecting scenarios.

Coin Hunting

Winner: Garrett AT Pro

Reasons:

• Excellent sensitivity to coin targets

• Strong target identification

• Reliable Pro Mode audio

Relic Hunting

Winner: Garrett AT Max

Reasons:

• Improved detection depth

• Better performance in difficult terrain

Freshwater Detecting

Winner: Tie

Both detectors are fully waterproof up to 10 feet, making them suitable for rivers, lakes, and shallow water hunting.

Mineralized Soil

Winner: Garrett AT Max

Reasons:

• Improved ground balance system

• Slightly deeper detection capability

Pros and Cons

Garrett AT Pro

Pros

• Affordable price

• Excellent all-purpose detector

• Strong performance for coins and relics

• Easy to learn for beginners

Cons

• No wireless audio

• No backlit display

• Slightly older technology

Garrett AT Max

Pros

• Wireless Z-Lynk technology

• Backlit display

• Improved depth

• More advanced features

Cons

• Higher price

• Slightly more complex settings

Which Detector Should You Choose?

Your budget and how you want to detect can help you decide between the AT Max and AT Pro.

Choose the Garrett AT Pro, if you want

• A metal detector that works for anything

• Great for coins and relics

• An option that costs less

Choose the Garrett AT Max, if you want

• The ability to play sounds wirelessly

• Better depth of detection

• A more advanced metal detector

The AT Pro is still one of the greatest deals in metal detecting for many hobbyists. But detectorists who desire modern features and wireless technologies might think the AT Max is worth the extra money.

FAQ’s

Is the Garrett AT Max better than the AT Pro?

The AT Max includes newer technology such as wireless audio and a backlit display, but both detectors offer similar overall performance.

Which detector has better depth?

The AT Max may provide slightly deeper detection due to its lower operating frequency and improved ground balance system.

Are both detectors waterproof?

Yes. Both the AT Pro and AT Max are waterproof up to 10 feet, making them suitable for freshwater detecting.

Is the AT Max worth the extra price?

If wireless audio and newer features are important to you, the AT Max may be worth the upgrade. Otherwise, the AT Pro offers excellent performance for a lower price.

Final Verdict

Hobbyists have found that both the Garrett AT Pro and Garrett AT Max are great metal detectors that work well on all types of terrain.

The AT Pro is still a very popular pick because it works well and doesn't cost too much. The AT Max improves on that base with modern technology, wireless capability, and better depth. The AT Pro is a great choice if you want a metal detector that works well for finding coins and other items. The AT Max is a great upgrade if you want a newer detector with more capabilities.

Garrett AT Pro vs Garrett AT Gold

Have Questions? Speak With Our Team

If you still have questions or would like personalized guidance, you’re welcome to speak directly with our team. We work with these detectors every day and can help you choose the right model based on your location, experience level, and goals. Call us anytime at 844-344-4465 and we’ll be happy to walk you through your options with honest, practical advice.