VX5 gives new and returning hunters the Vortex platform at the most accessible price.
A smart first detector that still feels serious.


Why VX5 is the smart first Vortex
Fast, fixed Recovery Speed helps VX5 respond quickly when targets are close together.
Good for parks, yards, and everyday coin hunting.Iron Volume helps you manage unwanted iron audio while still hearing the site.
A cleaner hunt for newer detectorists.VX5 is submersible to 16 feet, lightweight, and easy to pack for weekend hunts.
Take it from the yard to the waterline.Get the entry Vortex model with waterproof protection, MD-MF Technology, and Garrett performance at the best starting price.
Find your best hunting mode
Park hunters
VX5 is a strong everyday choice for parks, yards, and public spaces where coins, jewelry, and modern trash all live together.
- Fast, fixed Recovery Speed for nearby targets
- Iron Volume to help control unwanted noise
- Simple enough for new hunters to enjoy quickly
Coin and jewelry hunters
VX5 keeps the hunt approachable while giving you the target response and multi-frequency power needed for common finds.
- Good for coins, jewelry, and everyday targets
- MD-MF Technology with single and multi-frequency options
- Four search modes for quick setup
Field hunters
For open ground and weekend exploring, VX5 gives you a lightweight, waterproof Vortex platform without the top-tier price.
- Lightweight and collapsible for longer hunts
- Waterproof design for changing conditions
- Garrett reliability in a simpler package
Family hunters
VX5 is approachable enough for casual hunts and capable enough to keep the adventure interesting as skills improve.
- Easy entry into the Vortex family
- Collapsible design for transport and storage
- Great fit for weekend treasure hunts
Waterline hunters
VX5 is submersible to 16 feet for freshwater edges and shallow water hunts. For regular saltwater beach work, VX7 or VX9 is the better step-up.
- 16 ft waterproof protection
- Good for freshwater and shallow water hunts
- Step up for dedicated saltwater performance
Choose your Vortex
VX5 is the entry Vortex model: the most affordable way into Garrett’s waterproof, collapsible, MD-MF platform with the core tools new hunters need.
| Feature | Vortex VX5 Current Model | Vortex VX7 | Vortex VX9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MD-MF Target ID Scale | One Target ID Scale (0-99) | 2-tier Target ID Scales | 3-tier Target ID Scales |
| Frequencies | 13 kHz, Multi-Freq. | 5, 13 kHz, Multi-Freq., Multi-Salt | 5, 9, 13, 18, 25 kHz, Multi-Freq., Multi-Salt |
| Search Modes | Zero, Standard, USA Coins, Custom | Zero, Standard, USA Coins, Beach, Custom | Zero, Standard, USA Coins, Thin Coins, Beach, Custom, Fast |
| Bottlecap Reject (MF function) | Fixed | Yes – 4 Settings | Yes – 6 Settings |
| Iron Boundary (MF function) | Fixed | Yes – 4 Settings | Yes – 6 Settings |
| Notch Discrimination | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| High-Resolution Iron Discrimination | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sensitivity settings | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Variable Recovery Speed | Fixed | Yes – 2 Settings | Yes – 3 Settings |
| Z-Lynk Wireless | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Channel (EMI Reduction) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Increased sensitivity/depth | N/A | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Ground Balance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Tones | 3 | 3,5 | 2,3,5 |
| Volume Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pinpoint | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| LCD Backlight | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Condition Indicator | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Length (Adjustable) | 24.75″ to 56.75″ (62.86 cm – 144.14 cm) | 24.75″ to 56.75″ (62.86 cm – 144.14 cm) | 24.75″ to 56.75″ (62.86 cm – 144.14 cm) |
| Total Weight (with 8.5″ x 11″ coil) | 3 lbs (1.38 kgs) | 3 lbs (1.38 kgs) | 3 lbs (1.38 kgs) |
| Fully Waterproof to | 16 ft (5m) | 16 ft (5m) | 16 ft (5m) |
| Warranty | 3 Years, Limited Parts/Labor | 3 Years, Limited Parts/Labor | 3 Years, Limited Parts/Labor |
Quick answers before you buy
Is VX5 a good first detector?
Yes. VX5 is the entry-level Vortex model and is designed to be approachable while still giving you serious Garrett performance.
Why choose VX5 instead of VX7?
Choose VX5 for the lowest Vortex starting price, fast fixed Recovery Speed, Iron Volume, MD-MF Technology, four search modes, and a lightweight collapsible build.
Should I step up to VX7?
Step up to VX7 if you want more power, Beach Mode, Multi-Salt operation, dual Target ID scales, recovery speed control, and five search modes.
Is it waterproof?
Yes. VX5 is submersible to 16 ft. For frequent saltwater beach hunting, VX7 or VX9 is the better fit because they include Multi-Salt operation.
Everything you need to hunt with confidence
What’s in the box

Detector, 11″ DD coil, USB cable, strap, quick-start guide, warranty.
Complete Your VX5 Kit


Garrett PRO-Pointer AT Z-Lynk Wireless
Sync your PRO-Pointer AT to your Z-Lynk-enabled detector. Hear both detector and pinpointer alarms in your headphones. Submersible to 20 feet.

Garrett All-Purpose Carry Bag
Carry any Garrett detector in this budget-friendly bag.

Garrett Diggers Kit
Recover your own treasure today with these essential Garrett detecting accessories!


Garrett Razor Relic Shovel
Heavy-duty relic shovel for the field, forest, or farm.

Garrett All Terrain Dig Pouch
Ideal treasure pouch for both water and land hunting.


Garrett Vortex 6″ x 11″ DD Viper Searchcoil
This narrow DD-format coil provides excellent maneuverability, target separation, and depth.


5″ x 8″ DD Vortex Ripper™ Searchcoil
Perfect size for tight spaces and iron-infested sites.


Garrett Vortex 14″ x 11″ DD Reaper Searchcoil
This large DD-format coil is designed for deeper detection depth and for covering more terrain with each sweep.


Reviews
FAQ
Yes. VX5 is the entry Vortex model, built to be easy to start with while still giving you room to grow.
A friendly first step into serious detecting.Yes. VX5 is submersible to 16 ft for freshwater edges and shallow water hunting.
For regular saltwater hunting, step up to VX7 or VX9.Use compatible Garrett wireless headphones or Garrett-approved audio accessories.
Pair it with the right audio setup for a cleaner hunt.VX5 gives you the Vortex platform, MD-MF Technology, Iron Volume, waterproof protection, and a collapsible design at the best entry price.
The most affordable Vortex launchpad.













