Independently researched Detector Comparison
Garrett AT Pro vs Minelab Equinox 700
Equinox 700 is the stronger new all-terrain purchase: Multi-IQ, 119 IDs, carbon shaft, wireless audio and 5 m waterproofing. AT Pro remains a credible inland/freshwater machine for buyers who specifically prefer Garrett proportional audio.
Bottom line
Equinox 700 wins breadth; AT Pro wins familiar simplicity
Choose Equinox 700 for wet salt, lower weight, compact transport, 119 IDs and current Multi-IQ hardware. Choose AT Pro only when Pro Mode audio, direct Garrett controls and a mature coil ecosystem matter more than SMF. Both can submerge, but Equinox is rated to 5 m versus AT Pro’s 3 m.
Decision table
The differences that change the decision
| Factor | Garrett AT Pro | Minelab Equinox 700 |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency system | 15 kHz single-frequency VLF | Multi-IQ plus selected single frequencies |
| Waterproofing | 3 m / 10 ft | 5 m / 16 ft |
| Best fit | freshwater and relic hunters who value proportional audio | serious all-terrain users who do not need Gold Mode |
| Main advantage | Pro Audio, Iron Audio and 40 iron-discrimination segments | modern shaft, 119 target IDs and strong separation |
| Primary limitation | older single-frequency platform without built-in wireless | less gold and audio control than Equinox 900 |
Specific recommendations
Choose by terrain and operating style
Garrett AT Pro
Pro Audio, Iron Audio and 40 iron-discrimination segments; best suited to freshwater and relic hunters who value proportional audio.
- 15 kHz single-frequency VLF
- 3 m / 10 ft
- Limitation: older single-frequency platform without built-in wireless
Minelab Equinox 700
modern shaft, 119 target IDs and strong separation; best suited to serious all-terrain users who do not need Gold Mode.
- Multi-IQ plus selected single frequencies
- 5 m / 16 ft
- Limitation: less gold and audio control than Equinox 900
Decision analysis
What actually changes the purchase
AT Pro uses 15 kHz single-frequency VLF with Pro proportional audio and 40 iron-discrimination segments. Equinox 700 provides Multi-IQ plus 4, 5, 10 and 15 kHz selections with Park, Field and Beach profiles.
Equinox 700 weighs about 1.27 kg, collapses to 61 cm and is IP68 to 5 m. AT Pro is about 1.37 kg, extends less compactly and is rated to 3 m. Both require compatible waterproof audio underwater.
The 700’s three recovery levels and 119-segment scale improve adjustment and display resolution, not certainty. AT Pro’s nuanced tone shape remains useful where an experienced ear matters more than numerical granularity.
FAQ
Targeted questions answered
Which detector is better on wet salt beaches?
Equinox 700 because Multi-IQ Beach profiles address conductive salt more effectively.
How waterproof are they?
Equinox 700 is rated to 5 m; AT Pro to 3 m.
What frequency does AT Pro use?
15 kHz single frequency.
What frequencies does Equinox 700 offer?
Multi-IQ plus selectable 4, 5, 10 and 15 kHz in applicable modes.
Does Equinox 700 have Gold mode?
No. Equinox 900 adds Gold mode and 20/40 kHz single choices.
Why still choose AT Pro?
For Garrett Pro Mode audio, straightforward controls and familiarity at a strong discount.
Which is easier to transport?
Equinox 700; its carbon shaft collapses to about 61 cm.
Continue researching
Related detector guides
Metal Detector Comparisons
Continue with the related guide and compare the equipment for your terrain and targets.
Metal Detecting Guides for Beginners
Continue with the related guide and compare the equipment for your terrain and targets.
Garrett AT Max vs. Nokta Legend
Continue with the related guide and compare the equipment for your terrain and targets.
Garrett AT Pro vs. Nokta Legend
Continue with the related guide and compare the equipment for your terrain and targets.
Buy for the sites you actually hunt
For Garrett AT Pro vs Minelab Equinox 700, the correct choice is the one whose ground handling and controls solve the conditions you face repeatedly.
Check Prices