Garrett AT Pro vs Garrett AT Gold – Which Metal Detector Should You Choose?

The AT series from Garrett has established a solid reputation among detectorists looking for a machine that can function in a range of settings. The Garrett AT Pro and the Garrett AT Gold are two of this lineup's most frequently compared detectors. 

These two detectors appear to be quite similar at first glance. Both are designed for usage both on land and in freshwater situations because they are a part of Garrett's All-Terrain range. They share several of Garrett's key technologies, including digital target identification, iron discrimination, and manual ground balancing, and are completely waterproof.

These detectors are made for distinct kinds of metal detection, despite their similarities.

• The Garrett AT Pro is a multipurpose detector designed for jewelry, coin, and relic searching.

• Garrett AT Gold was created especially for prospecting for gold and finding tiny targets.

Understanding the distinctions between these two devices can help you choose the one that best fits your detecting style.

Garrett AT Pro vs Garrett AT Gold: Quick Answer

The Garrett AT Pro is a multipurpose metal detector that may be used for general treasure seeking, coin hunting, and relic searching. The Garrett AT Gold is more appropriate for gold prospecting and finding very small targets because it runs at a higher frequency. While the AT Gold works better in gold-rich situations, the AT Pro offers more versatility for the majority of enthusiasts.

Garrett AT Pro vs Garrett AT Gold: Quick Comparison

Although both detectors are designed for all-terrain detection, their features are adjusted for distinct uses. Whereas the AT Gold concentrates on sensitivity to tiny targets, the AT Pro emphasizes adaptability.

Garrett AT Pro Overview

Among metal detectors, the Garrett AT Pro is one of the most well-liked models. It is made to be a true all-purpose detector that functions effectively in a variety of settings.

Detectorists commonly use the AT Pro for:

• Coin hunting

• Hunting for relics

• Detection of jewels

• Freshwater Detecting

The AT Pro's Pro Mode audio, which offers more precise sound responses for various targets, is one of its greatest advantages. This makes it easier for seasoned users to decipher what might be hidden beneath the earth.

Key Features

• An operating frequency of 15 kHz that strikes a balance between sensitivity and depth

• 8.5 x 11-inch DD search coil for extensive coverage of the ground

• To detect iron waste, use the iron audio feature.

• Using notch discrimination to filter undesirable metals

• Waterproof design up to 10 feet

The AT Pro is frequently regarded as one of the greatest detectors for enthusiasts looking for a device that can handle many kinds of detection due to its adaptability.

Garrett AT Gold Overview

The primary objective of the Garrett AT Gold's design was to locate small gold targets. Gold nuggets are frequently small and challenging to find. Garrett AT Gold is more sensitive to tiny, low-conductive metals like gold because it operates at a higher frequency of 18 kHz. Prospectors who are looking for gold in rivers, streams, and mineralized soil frequently use this detector.

Key Features

• Operating frequency of 18 kHz for enhanced gold sensitivity

• DD search coil, 5 x 8 inches, for improved target separation

• Maximum detection depth using the True All-Metal mode

• When managing mineralized soil, the ground balance window

• Waterproof design up to 10 feet

The AT Gold is especially useful in settings where tiny gold targets might be concealed among rocks and mineralized ground because of its smaller coil and higher frequency.

Key Differences Between Garrett AT Pro and AT Gold

Although the two detectors share many design elements, several important differences set them apart. Understanding these differences will help determine which machine better fits your detection goals.

Operating Frequency

The way a detector reacts to various metals is significantly influenced by its operating frequency.

15 kHz Garrett AT Pro

Garrett AT Gold 18 kHz

In general, small or low-conductivity targets are more susceptible to higher frequencies.

This indicates that while the AT Pro works well on bigger targets like coins and relics, the AT Gold has an advantage when looking for tiny gold nuggets.

Search Modes

The two detectors offer different search mode configurations.

AT Pro Modes

 includes Standard and Pro audio modes, each offering Zero, Coins, and Custom search options.

AT Gold Modes

• All-Metal Mode

• Disc 1

• Disc 2

The AT Gold’s All-Metal Mode is particularly useful for gold prospecting because it maximizes detection sensitivity.

Search Coil Size

Target separation and detection depth are both affected by the search coil.

The AT Pro Coil

• 8.5 x 11-inch DD coil

• More coverage of the ground

• More depth on bigger targets

The AT Gold Coil

• 5 x 8-inch DD coil

• Improved target separation

• Perfect for mineralized or rocky areas

In difficult situations, the AT Gold's smaller coil aids in isolating small targets.

Gold Detection Performance

Here's where the AT Gold really shines.

Because of its specific all-metal mode and higher frequency, it is particularly sensitive to:

• Little bits of gold

• Delicate gold jewelry

• Small, non-conductive targets

Although it was mostly intended for broad detection rather than specialized gold prospecting, the AT Pro can nevertheless detect gold.

Water and Beach Performance

Both detectors are appropriate for watery settings like rivers and lakes because they are waterproof up to 10 feet.

But there is a significant distinction.

• AT Pro performs better than AT Gold in salt environments, but like most single-frequency VLF detectors, it still performs best in freshwater and dry sand.

• For saltwater beaches, AT Gold is not the best option.

As a result, the AT Pro is typically the superior choice for beach detection.

Performance Comparison in the Field

Different settings are better for different detectors.

This is a comparison of the AT Pro and AT Gold in typical metal-detecting scenarios.

Coin Hunting

Garrett AT Pro was the winner.

Reasons:

• Modes of coin detecting

• Notch discrimination

• Bigger search coil

Gold Prospecting

Winner: Garrett AT Gold

Reasons:

• Higher frequency

• Better sensitivity to small targets

• True all-metal mode

Relic Hunting

Winner: Garrett AT Pro

Reasons:

• Better versatility

• Deeper detection for larger relics

Mineralized Soil

Winner: Garrett AT Gold

Reasons:

• Ground balance window

• Better sensitivity in difficult soil

Pros and Cons

Garrett AT Pro

Pros

• Versatile all-terrain detector

• Excellent for coins and relics

• A larger coil provides better coverage

• Works better on saltwater beaches

Cons

• Less sensitive to tiny gold targets

• Not designed specifically for prospecting

Garrett AT Gold

Pros

• Excellent sensitivity to gold

• True all-metal prospecting mode

• Smaller coil improves target separation

Cons

• Fewer search modes

• Not ideal for saltwater environments

Which Detector Should You Choose?

The type of detection you intend to undertake will play a major role in your decision between the AT Pro and AT Gold.

Select Garrett AT Pro if you want:

• An adaptable detector

• The ability to hunt coins and relics

• Performance of beach detection

• An all-purpose device

Select Garrett AT Gold if you want:

• A specialized detector for gold prospecting

• Increased sensitivity to tiny targets

• Improved performance in soil that has been mineralized

Although both detectors are top-notch devices, they are made for slightly different types of detection.

FAQ’s

Is the AT Gold better than the AT Pro?

Not necessarily. The AT Gold is better for gold prospecting, while the AT Pro is more versatile for general metal detecting.

Can the AT Pro detect gold?

Yes. The AT Pro can detect gold jewelry and small gold items, but it is less sensitive to tiny nuggets compared to the AT Gold.

Which detector has better depth?

The AT Pro generally performs better on larger targets like coins and relics due to its larger search coil.

Are both detectors waterproof?

Yes. Both detectors are waterproof up to 10 feet, making them suitable for freshwater detecting.

Final Verdict

The Garrett AT Pro and Garrett AT Gold are both top-notch detectors made for various kinds of detection. The AT Pro is a unique all-purpose detector that is useful for general treasure seeking, coin hunting, and relic searching. In contrast, the AT Gold is a specialist device made for finding very small targets and panning for gold. The AT Pro is typically a superior option if your primary objective is to locate coins and artifacts. The AT Gold provides the sensitivity required for searching for gold nuggets in mineralized ground. The kind of treasure you want to find will ultimately determine which detector is best for you.