Garrett Vortex VX5 Multi-Frequency Waterproof Metal Detector
The Garrett Vortex VX5 is the entry model in Garrett's waterproof Vortex series, a multi-frequency detector for coin, relic and jewelry hunters who want a simple, capable machine that can also go in the water. It runs Garrett's MD-MF multi-frequency technology with a 13 kHz single frequency and a simultaneous Multi-Frequency mode, and the whole detector is submersible to 16 feet (5 meters).
The VX5 keeps the controls straightforward. A single-tier MD-MF target ID scale runs 0 to 99 with three audio tones, and four search modes cover Zero Discrimination, Standard, USA Coins and Custom. Recovery speed is fixed and fast for clean separation of adjacent targets, and iron volume across eight levels lets you turn down ferrous trash. It balances across 175 points of ground resolution from ferrous soil to saltwater.
The VX5 reads on a backlit LCD and runs about 15 hours on its built-in lithium-ion battery over a high-speed USB-C cable. It weighs 3 lbs (1.38 kg) with the coil cover installed and collapses from 56.75 in (144.14 cm) down to 24.75 in (62.86 cm) for transport. Built-in Z-Lynk wireless pairs with Garrett MS-3 or CS-3 headphones with no cable.
Because every Vortex shares the same hardware, the VX5 is software upgradeable, so you can convert it to VX7 or VX9 features as your skills grow. GeoWork Supply ships the VX5 with the 8.5 in by 11 in DD Raider waterproof coil and charging cable, ready to assemble, with the user manual linked below.
What's Included:
- Garrett Vortex VX5 metal detector
- 8.5 in x 11 in DD Raider waterproof searchcoil with cover
- High-speed USB-C charging and data cable
- Armrest strap
- Quick start guide
- Access to Garrett online training videos
Features
Single and Multi-Frequency
Run a powerful single 13 kHz frequency, or switch to Vortex simultaneous Multi-Frequency for detection across all targets in most soils. Multi-frequency is what lets the VX5 stay stable in tough ground.

Single-Tier Target ID and Three Tones
A single-tier MD-MF target ID scale runs 0 to 99 with three audio tones, an easy readout for new and experienced hunters alike. Iron Audio helps you call out bottle caps and steel washers.

Four Search Modes
Choose from Zero Discrimination, Standard, USA Coins and Custom. Standard mode is set up for relics, jewelry and most international coins, while Custom lets you tailor the VX5 to your sites.

Submersible to 16 ft
The whole detector is submersible to 16 feet (5 meters), so you can hunt streams, lakes and the ocean coast. Add submersible headphones to take the VX5 fully underwater.

Lightweight and Collapsible
The VX5 weighs 3 lbs (1.38 kg) with the coil cover and collapses to 24.75 in (62.86 cm), then extends to 56.75 in (144.14 cm). A backlit LCD and a roughly 15 hour battery keep you hunting into the evening.

Upgradeable to VX7 and VX9
Every Vortex model shares the same hardware. As your skills grow you can convert the VX5 to VX7 or VX9 features with a Garrett software upgrade, adding frequencies, modes and target ID detail.

What's Included
Included with Your Purchase:
- Garrett Vortex VX5 metal detector
- 8.5 in x 11 in DD Raider waterproof searchcoil (PN 2238400) with cover
- High-speed USB-C charging and data cable
- Armrest strap
- Quick start guide
- Access to Garrett online training videos
- 3 year limited warranty
Specifications
| Technology | MD-MF multi-frequency |
| Operating Frequencies | 13 kHz plus Multi-Frequency |
| Search Modes | 4 (Zero Discrimination, Standard, USA Coins, Custom) |
| Target ID | Single-tier MD-MF scale (0 to 99) |
| Audio Tones | 3 |
| Recovery Speed | Fast, fixed |
| Iron Volume | 8 levels |
| Ground Balance | Hi-resolution, 175 points |
| Sensitivity | 8 levels |
| Searchcoil | 8.5 in x 11 in DD Raider, waterproof |
| Waterproof | Submersible to 16 ft (5 m) |
| Wireless Audio | Built-in Z-Lynk |
| Display | Backlit LCD |
| Battery | Built-in lithium-ion, about 15 hours per charge |
| Length | 24.75 in (62.86 cm) to 56.75 in (144.14 cm) |
| Weight | 3 lbs (1.38 kg) with coil cover |
| Warranty | 3 year limited |
FAQ
Q: Is the Garrett Vortex VX5 waterproof?
A: Yes. The VX5 is submersible to 16 feet (5 meters), coil and control housing sealed. For underwater audio you add submersible headphones, since the built-in speaker and Z-Lynk wireless are for above-water use.
Q: What frequencies does the VX5 use?
A: It offers two options, a single 13 kHz frequency and a simultaneous Multi-Frequency mode for detection across all targets in most soils.
Q: How is the VX5 different from the VX7 and VX9?
A: The VX5 is the entry model with a single-tier target ID, three tones and fixed recovery speed. The VX7 adds Multi-Salt, Beach mode and a two-tier scale, and the VX9 adds more frequencies, Thin Coins and Fast modes and a three-tier scale. All three share hardware.
Q: Can I upgrade the VX5 later?
A: Yes. Because the Vortex models share the same hardware, the VX5 can be converted to VX7 or VX9 features with a Garrett software upgrade, adding frequencies, modes and target ID detail.
Q: What coil comes with the VX5?
A: It ships with the 8.5 inch by 11 inch DD Raider waterproof searchcoil and cover. Other Vortex Raider and Reaper coils are available, including underwater-connector versions for diving.
Q: Does the VX5 have wireless audio?
A: Yes. Z-Lynk wireless is built in. It pairs with Garrett MS-3 or CS-3 Z-Lynk headphones, which are sold separately on the standard VX5.
Warranty
Garrett backs the Vortex VX5 with a 3 year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.