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Head-To-Head Comparison

Garrett ACE 400 vs Nokta Simplex+

A quick, honest look at how the Garrett ACE 400 and the Nokta Simplex+ compare on specs, depth, price and real-world performance.
Garrett Ace 400 metal detector
Garrett

ACE 400

6.6/10
★ /5
£249
Full Review
Nokta Simplex Plus metal detector
Nokta

Simplex+

7.4/10
★ /5
£249
Full Review
🏆 Our Top Pick
Simplex+

This is a cracking head-to-head because they’re about the same money. The Garrett ACE 400 is a dependable, easy beginner machine, but the Nokta Simplex+ packs more in at the price. It’s fully submersible to 3m, with built-in wireless audio, a rechargeable battery and manual ground balance. For a newcomer who fancies a bit of beach or river work, the Simplex+ is the better-equipped buy. The ACE 400 still wins on Garrett’s huge support community, if that’s the sort of thing that reassures you when you’re starting out.

Side-By-Side Specs

Spec
ACE 400
Simplex+
Brand
Garrett
Nokta
Technology
VLF
VLF
Frequency (kHz)
10
12
Coil Size
8.5×11
11
Waterproof
No
Submersible 3m
Weight (lbs)
3
2.9
Display
LCD
LCD
Battery Life (hrs)
20
15
Warranty (yrs)
3
2
UK Price (£)
249
249
Overall Score
6.6
7.4

Pros & Cons

Garrett ACE 400

PROS
  • ✓DD coil as standard
  • ✓Improved depth and separation
  • ✓Electronic pinpoint
  • ✓0-99 numeric target ID
  • ✓Strong Garrett support community
CONS
  • ✗No ground balance (auto notch only)
  • ✗Not waterproof
  • ✗Single frequency limits versatility

Nokta Simplex+

PROS
  • ✓Fully submersible to 3m at this price
  • ✓Built-in Bluetooth wireless audio
  • ✓Rechargeable battery
  • ✓Strong performance-per-dollar
  • ✓Vibration alert for silent use
CONS
  • ✗Single 12 kHz frequency limits versatility
  • ✗Auto and manual GB but less sophisticated than premium machines
  • ✗Not as fast recovery as multi-frequency rivals

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Garrett ACE 400 and the Nokta Simplex+?
The Garrett ACE 400 (VLF, 10 kHz, 3 lbs) and the Nokta Simplex+ (VLF, 12 kHz, 2.9 lbs) differ most in technology, waterproofing and price. The Garrett ACE 400 is rated No; the Nokta Simplex+ is rated Submersible 3m. See the spec table above for the full side-by-side.
What is the price difference between the Garrett ACE 400 and the Nokta Simplex+?
The Garrett ACE 400 and Nokta Simplex+ sit at roughly the same UK price, so the decision comes down to features and feel rather than cost.
Which should I buy?
Our pick is the Nokta Simplex+, but the right choice depends on where you detect and your budget. Have a read of both full reviews before you decide.

Which should you buy?

Still weighing it up? Read both full reviews below, then back your gut.

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