In this article we’ll be comparing the technical specs of the new Garrett ACE Apex to those of the Nokta Makro Simplex. The ACE Apex and SIMPLEX Comparison is solely based on the tech specs that each company releases. Look for addition reviews once we start seeing unbiased tests of Garrett’s ACE Apex.
The ACE Apex Unveiled.
Garrett Metal Detectors recently unveiled its new metal detector called the Garrett Ace Apex. This presents a big shift from the original Ace Series and gives enthusiasts a look into future of where Garrett may be heading with their current line up of sport metal detectors. For more information on the Apex, check out the 2 videos below.
ACE Apex Offers New Technology.
Garrett surprised many of us with its addition a 6″ x 11″ DD Viper coil. But what was more surprising is Garrett’s new Multi-Flex or muli-frequency technology. That was a big surprise that many of us didn’t see coming.
However, many enthusiasts were hoping that the Apex would be a 100% waterproof machine. Unfortunately, the coil and shaft are the only waterproof items on the Apex. The control box is only considered to be “Rainproof“.
ACE Apex Competitors.
Two of Garrett’s main competitors for this line of metal detectors is the Minelab Vanquish and Notka Makro Simplex. In this article we will be comparing the Simplex against the Apex based ONLY on technical specifications.
The Apex doesn’t ship until July of 2020. However, by looking at both of the technical specifications for each machine, you can quickly see which features set these 2 machines apart.
ACE Apex and SIMPLEX Comparison Table.
Please note that this comparison is solely based upon the literature that each company provides about their detector or listed from the firmware updates listed on Nokta’s web site.
| FEATURE | ACE Apex | Simplex |
| Multi Freq | Yes (5, 10, 15, 20 kHz) | No 12 kHz |
| Frequency Shift | Yes | Yes |
| Audio Tones | 5 | 3 |
| Backlight | Yes | Yes |
| Iron Audio | Yes | Yes |
| Iron Volume Control | Yes | Yes |
| Iron Disc | Yes (8 Segments) | ??? |
| Notch Disc | Yes | Yes |
| Search Modes | 6 | 5 |
| Target ID Scale | 0-99 | 0-99 |
| Sensitivity Adjustments | Yes | Yes |
| Ground Balance | Yes | Yes |
| Depth Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Search Coil | 6 x 11″ DD Viper | 11″ DD |
| Pinpoint | Yes | Yes |
| Waterproof | Coil Only | 100% to 10 ft. |
| Weight | 2.5 lbs | 2.9 lbs |
| Power | Lithium recharageable | Lithium rechargeable |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 2 Years |
| Vibration Indicator | No | Yes |
| LED Flashlight | No | Yes |
| Retractable Shaft | No | Yes |
| Firmware Updates | No | Yes |
MSRP Price Comparison
| Without Wireless Headphones | With Wireless Headphones | |
| ACE Apex MSRP = $499.95 | ACE Apex MSRP = $579.95 | |
| Simplex MSRP = $299.00 | Simplex MSRP = $399.00 | |
Check the latest prices for the Nokta Makro Simplex or to Pre-order the Garrett ACE Apex.
It All Boils Down to These Factors.
Clearly both metal detectors offer something that the other one doesn’t. Based on what we see it boils down to these key factors.
- Waterproof – The Ace Apex comes up short but the Simplex answers the demand.
- Price – The Simplex is the obvious winner.
- Multi-Frequency – The Apex wins the day in this category pending field tests.
- Firmware Updates – Simplex outshines here. Maybe Garrett will come out with this feature in the future. Based on the Simplex updates they are clearly listening to their customers. There have been 3 updates as of the date of this article.
One other factor to consider is the type of metal detecting you plan on doing. If you are a water hunter then there is a clear choice based on the table above. However, multi-frequency technology has been proven to have its advantages over single frequency VLF metal detectors especially in high trashy areas and on wet sandy beaches.
What type of hunting do you do? Your answer will help you decide which machine is right for you.
ACE Apex Field Tests Needed.
For now comparing technical specs is all we can do pending field tests from unbiased owners. The next few months will be interesting to see how Garrett’s new Multi-Flex technology and their new Viper coil will perform.
Did Garrett do enough to lure buyers back and entice new customers? Only time will tell but Garrett is clearly planning for the future and it will be interesting to see what they do with their popular AT Series of detectors.
Thanks for reading – Mental Metal Detecting.
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