Review: Garrett Vortex VX9 Metal Detector

Review: Garrett Vortex VX9 Metal Detector

I must admit, I was a little intimidated to try out the new Garrett Vortex VX9. I joined some Facebook groups to learn more about it before it was released. There were a lot of comments, some complaining about how long it was taking to be released, while others praising Garrett for waiting to release it until all the bugs were worked out.

The Machine

But I still wanted to try it because per the website, it's "The world's first fully upgradeable waterproof detector series! As your skills increase, you can opt to convert your VX5 to a VX7 or VX9 model with software updates. Each Vortex model upgrade includes additional operating frequencies, more advanced features, and more power!" 

I think it's a great idea that a person can buy one machine and then upgrade it through downloads (for a fee) instead of buying a new machine as skills progress. So, in addition to the VX9, there are two "prequels" – the VX5 and the VX7, but only the VX9 has been released until recently. I appreciate Garrett sending me this version to review.

One of the different features of the Vortex VX9 is that instead of one line showing the target display like most machines, it has three lines. With every metal detector, it takes the owner a bit of time to get to "know" their machines and with the VX9 it might take a little longer to really discover the intricacies of this new feature. I think experienced detectorists are going to have a lot of fun working with it.

The Garrett Vortex VX9 is fully waterproof, submersible to 16 feet. It can extend to 56.75 inches and collapses down to 24.75 inches for transportation. It is also lightweight at only three pounds, including the coil cover.

I was also happy to see it has the built-in Z-Lynk so it works with my MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones and Wireless Pro-Pointer so nothing new was needed (although submersible headphones are now available, MSRP: $176.99).

Updating the Software

Now that the machine has been released to the public, the updating aspect has also been a bit controversial. Some people say they are still having issues, that the machine is dead after they update it, and they have to send it back to Garrett to be repaired. 

However, those customers have nothing but rave reviews about Garrett customer service. Everyone who sent their machines in after trying to update said that Garrett fixed them quickly and got them right back out to them.

The update downloads are available for both Windows and MacOS. I used the PC version because I think that is what most people will use. I sat down and held my breath and went through the update process. 

I can happily report that the entire process was easy, smooth and fast, taking less than five minutes. The directions were clear. But the most important part was that the machine worked as normal after the install. I had no issues at all.

I was a bit concerned about the Garrett Vortex VX9 from what I had been reading online for many months (which only pertained to updating it, no other issues with the machine) but now after going through the update process myself, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the VX9 for experienced detectorists who are excited to try out the new features.

Who Should Buy the VX9?

Garrett advertises the VX9 as "The Professional's Model," and I agree it is for the experienced detectorist. 

So now it's the perfect time of year to get the new Garrett Vortex VX9 and start enjoying the fun of trying out all the new features! 

MSRP: $599.99

Source: Review: Garrett Vortex VX9 Metal Detector