Vortex Series

Vortex with 8.5" x 11" DD Raider searchcoil with coil cover, USB-C charging cable, and quick start guide. Comes ready for serious treasure hunting, whether on land or during underwater search sessions.
Transform a VX5 to a VX7 to a VX9
World’s first fully transformable metal detector series!
As your skills increase, transform your VX5 to a VX7 or VX9 with paid software upgrades.

This upgradeable metal detector platform supports a growing range of advanced features to match your experience level and terrain. The Vortex series is an innovative and highly-performing underwater metal detector designed for all-terrain use, including scuba diving and shallow water detection. Its advanced technology ensures reliable performance in various conditions, such as saltwater beaches and underwater terrains. Enhance your metal-detecting experience with the ultimate waterproof metal detector for detecting precious metals, hidden coins, and other metal treasures.


Vortex VX5 with Single-tier MD-MF Target ID scale

VX5


The entry Vortex model includes an array of advanced features that provide fast, fixed recovery speed on adjacent targets. Fully waterproof to 16 feet (5m), it's perfect for both beginner and more advanced treasure hunters exploring dry sand or underwater use.

Single and Multi-Frequency options, Single-tier MD-MF Target ID scale, and three audio tones allow users to differentiate between different types of metal objects in dry sand and underwater.


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Vortex VX7 with Two-tiered MD-MF Target ID display

VX7


MORE POWER THAN VX5

An advanced waterproof metal detector with more frequency and search modes than VX5, including the powerful Multi-Frequency Salt mode for wet sand and saltwater beach detection.

Two-tiered MD-MF Target ID display has separate ferrous and non-ferrous target scales for more precise identification of metal objects. Additional audio tones, adjustable Recovery Speed, and an ergonomic design make this high-performance unit ideal for finding hidden treasures in diverse environments.


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Vortex VX9 with full three-tiered MD-MF Target ID display

VX9


MORE POWER THAN VX7

The Professional's model includes full three-tiered MD-MF Target ID display with two ferrous scales to identify unwanted iron trash. Includes Multi-Salt mode, additional frequency choices, and additional Recovery Speed controls for optimal performance.

Features FAST Mode for competition hunts and THIN COINS Mode for fine, lower conductive coins (hammered silver and thin gold coins).


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MD-MF Technology




Garrett's Multi-Dimensional Multi-Frequency (MD-MF) Technology provides deeper and more accurate target analysis and identification. This advanced technology detects and analyzes targets using simultaneous multiple frequencies, as well as multiple dimensions of conductivity and ferrous (iron) content.

The MD-MF Technology is integrated into all three Vortex models, with the most advanced analysis on the VX9's multi-axis Target ID display. Ideal for metal detecting in various environments, this technology offers precise identification and improved detection depth.




MD-MF Technology Explained
The world's first fully upgradeable underwater metal detector series! As your skills increase, you can transform your VX5 to a VX7 or VX9 with paid software upgrades. Each Vortex model upgrade includes additional operating frequencies, more advanced features, and more power to enhance your treasure-hunting experience!


Thin Coins Mode (VX9)
Perfect setting made specifically for going after small, thin coins -- hammered silvers, tiny ancient gold coins, etc. -- ensuring precise identification of metal targets.

  • Faster recovery speed on adjacent targets.
  • Enhanced response on select Target ID range.
  • Reduced target response for common ferrous items and high-tone targets.
  • Ideal for use in underwater search patterns or shallow water detecting



Vortex VX9 shown with full three-tiered MD-MF Target ID display

Garrett Vortex Fully Waterproof to 16 feet (5m)
Vortex Basics



Click to Explore the Vortex
Find out more about key features and the technology behind this new metal detector by clicking on the buttons below.
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FIRST FIND - Ancient gold coin discovered with the Vortex VX9











Vortex Series Comparison
Vortex VX5 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 Yes
Iron Boundary (MF function) Fixed Fixed Yes
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 3, 5
Volume Control Yes Yes Yes
Iron Audio™ Yes Yes Yes
Iron Volume Yes Yes Yes
Button Lock (Dive Mode) 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
 
Updateable / Upgradeable Yes Yes Yes
Vortex Searchcoils
Vortex waterproof search coils have a unique connector that is not compatible with other Garrett detectors.
Garrett 5 inch by 8 inch DD Vortex Ripper Searchcoil
5" x 8" DD Vortex Ripper™ Searchcoil
PN: 2238500

COMING SOON
Garrett 6 inch by 11 inch DD Vortex VIPER Searchcoil
6" x 11" DD Vortex Viper™ Searchcoil
PN: 2238300

GARRETT DIRECT
Garrett 8.5 inch by 11 inch DD Vortex Raider Searchcoil
8.5" x 11" DD Vortex Raider™ Searchcoil
PN: 2238400

Included with Vortex Metal Detector
14 inch by 11 inch DD Vortex Reaper Searchcoil
14" x 11" DD Vortex Reaper™ Searchcoil
PN: 2238600

GARRETT DIRECT
Vortex Headphone Options
Garrett CS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones
PN: 1635510

GARRETT DIRECT
Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones
Garrett MS-3 Z-Lynk Wireless Headphones
PN: 1627710

GARRETT DIRECT
Garrett Vortex Submersible Headphones with 1/8 inch (3mm) headphone jack
Garrett Vortex Submersible Headphones with 1/8" (3mm) jack
PN: 2202150

GARRETT DIRECT
Garrett ClearSound Easy Stow Headphones with 1/8 inch (3mm) jack and in-line volume control
Garrett ClearSound Easy Stow Headphones with 1/8" (3mm) jack and in-line volume control
PN: 1612750

GARRETT DIRECT
READY TO EMBRACE THE STORM?
Prepare for the ultimate treasure-hunting experience with the Vortex series. Whether you're searching for old coins, relics, or buried treasure, the Vortex offers unmatched versatility and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth rating of the Garrett Vortex metal detectors? All Vortex models, including the VX5, VX7, and VX9, are fully waterproof with a depth rating of up to 16 feet (5 meters), making them ideal for shallow water detecting and underwater use, including scuba diving.

Can I use the Vortex underwater metal detector in saltwater? Yes. The Vortex series is designed for all terrains, including saltwater beaches. The VX7 and VX9 models include Multi-Frequency Salt modes to minimize interference and maximize target accuracy during underwater search sessions in saltwater environments.

What’s the difference between a waterproof detector and an underwater metal detector? A waterproof detector can handle splashes or rain, but an underwater metal detector like the Vortex is engineered for full submersion. With its rugged waterproof design and sealed searchcoil, Vortex is built for consistent underwater performance.

Do I need waterproof headphones for underwater detecting? Yes. For underwater metal detecting, waterproof headphones are highly recommended to maintain audio clarity and prevent damage. Garrett offers waterproof headphone options compatible with the Vortex series.

Accessories

Standard and optional searchcoils for Garrett’s Vortex detector series, and protective searchcoil covers.
Digging tools, treasure pouches, Keepers finds box, and sand scoops.
Garrett Z-Lynk wireless kits, headphones, and accessories.
Gear up for the field with Garrett daypacks and protective detector bags.
Standard use, fully submersible, and wireless headphone options.
Garrett branded shirts, caps, and informative treasure hunting books.