5-Second Answer
Get the Garrett for deeper waterproof rating (20ft vs 10ft). Get the Minelab for DIF technology that filters iron. Both are excellent choices.
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT vs Minelab Pro-Find 35
In-depth comparison with scores, field analysis, and expert verdict
Price difference: $10.99 (Minelab Pro-Find 35 is cheaper)
Head-to-Head Ratings
Our expert scores based on field testing and user data
Who Wins By Use Case?
Find your scenario instantly
20ft vs 10ft waterproof
Both handle beach conditions
DIF prevents interference
Ferrous tone indication
Bright orange is harder to lose
Both excellent all-around
The $10.99 Question
Similar price points with different strengths. Garrett goes deeper underwater. Minelab's DIF (Detector Interference Free) technology is unique. Neither is definitively better - different tools.
Category-by-Category Analysis
Expert breakdown of each performance area
Waterproof Depth
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT Wins20ft (6m) vs 10ft (3m). Garrett handles serious water hunting. Pro-Find is adequate for beach and shallow water.
Sensitivity
TieBoth excellent sensitivity to small targets. No clear winner in controlled tests.
Interference Handling
Minelab Pro-Find 35 WinsDIF technology prevents interference from nearby detectors. Garrett has basic interference filtering.
Durability
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT WinsGarrett's orange color and proven track record edge it out. Both are well-built.
Battery Life
Garrett Pro-Pointer AT WinsBetter battery efficiency. Both use single 9V but Garrett lasts longer in tests.
Ferrous Tone
Minelab Pro-Find 35 WinsPro-Find 35 can distinguish ferrous targets with special tone. Garrett has basic iron audio.
Full Specification Comparison
| Specification | Garrett Pro-Pointer AT | Minelab Pro-Find 35 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.99 | $99.00 |
| Rating | 4.8★ | 4.6★ |
| Reviews | 8,602 | 1,296 |
| Detection | 360° side and tip detection | 360° detection |
| Depth | Up to 3" tip, 1" side | — |
| Waterproof | 20 ft (6 meters) | 10 ft (3 meters) |
| Sensitivity | 3 levels | Auto-adjusting |
| Alerts | Audio + vibration | Audio + vibration + LED |
| Power | 1 9V battery | 1 9V battery |
| Battery Life | 30 hours | 30 hours |
| Length | 9" | 9.4" |
| Weight | 6.5 oz (184g) | 6.9 oz (195g) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Made In | USA | Designed Australia |
| frequency | 7 KHz | — |
| weight | 8 ounces | 6.4 ounces |
| batteryLife | — | 30 Hours |
| ipRating | IP8 | IP54 |
| coilSize | — | 9.3 Inches |
| dimensions | 9L x 2.5W x 2.5H | 3.54L x 2.36W x 18.9H |
| material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Iron Metal |
| powerSource | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| model | Pro-Pointer AT | 3226-0003 |
| Technology | — | DIF (Detector Interference Free) |
Pros & Cons Comparison
Pros
- Fully waterproof for beach and diving
- Fast and accurate pinpointing
- Proportional response helps gauge distance
- Lost alarm if left behind
Cons
- More expensive than non-waterproof models
- Orange color may not appeal to all
- 9V battery can be inconvenient
Pros
- DIF prevents interference with main detector
- Ferrous/non-ferrous indication
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Very sensitive to small targets
Cons
- Premium price
- Shallower waterproof rating than Garrett AT
- Auto-tune can be touchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Garrett Pro-Pointer AT vs Minelab Pro-Find 35
Upgrade Path
When you're ready for the next level
From Garrett Pro-Pointer AT:
Already top-tier for waterproof. Consider Garrett ATX or Sea Hunter Mark II for dedicated underwater detecting.
From Minelab Pro-Find 35:
Minelab Pro-Find 40 for maximum sensitivity and features, or stick with 35 - it's excellent.
Both are premium pinpointers that will serve you for years. The Garrett Pro-Pointer AT edges out for water hunters with its 20ft depth rating and high visibility orange color. The Pro-Find 35 excels in group detecting situations with DIF technology and offers ferrous tone identification. You can't go wrong with either. Pick based on your water hunting depth needs or whether you detect around others.
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