Garrett Vortex: The Illusion of Optional Software Upgrades

Garrett’s Ongoing Challenges: A Pun Intended

Garrett just cannot seem to dig themselves out of a hole these days—and yes, that is an intended pun. It feels like ages since the Vortex was introduced in June 2024 as the first fully upgradeable detecting platform. No need to replace machines—just update the firmware, albeit for a price.

The Early Backlash

Following its announcement, the Vortex faced significant criticism for its limited features and high price tag. Many speculated that it was merely a rehashed Apex with a new colour scheme—and perhaps that assessment wasn’t far off. At the time, the Apex offered better specifications, could be purchased with headphones included, and had a clearer value proposition.

In contrast, the Vortex was priced much higher, required separate purchases for wireless headphones, and had the wireless functionality locked down in the base VX5 model.

Delayed Release and Questionable Strategy

It took another six months for the Vortex to finally start shipping, but only in the premium VX9 format. This decision raised eyebrows. If Garrett’s promise of an upgradeable platform were genuine, releasing the VX5 model initially would have made more sense, allowing customers to decide later whether to upgrade to VX7 or VX9. After all, it’s the same machine.

The Latest Marketing Issue

Fast forward to the present, and we encounter yet another marketing issue—this time involving one of Garrett’s UK dealers, Crawfords. A quick Google search for the Vortex will likely lead you to one of Crawfords‘ adverts, prominently displaying a price of £476.95. Clicking on the advert takes you to their website page for the Vortex, which indeed lists it at £476.95—the standard price for the VX5 version.

On the checkout page, however, things take a slightly misleading turn. There’s an “option” to upgrade to VX9 software for an additional £153. Yet this so-called “option” is anything but optional. The system doesn’t allow you to purchase the VX5 base model on its own—you’re required to add the VX9 update to your cart to proceed with the checkout process. Effectively, you’re forced into purchasing the VX9 version, despite the advert appearing to offer the VX5 pricing.

It’s worth noting that Crawfords lists the product as simply “Garrett Vortex,” without specifying which version. However, given that £476.95 aligns with the list price of the VX5, it’s reasonable to draw conclusions about their intended marketing approach.

Of course, Crawfords are not the only ones to list the Vortex at £476.95 as several dealers also do this but, so far, Crawfords are the only ones showing the apparent “optional” software upgrade.

Smoke and Mirrors

This entire approach undermines Garrett’s claims of the Vortex being a revolutionary upgradeable platform. It’s almost as though the company never intended to release the VX5 or VX7 versions. The promise of flexibility was all smoke and mirrors.

To make matters worse, the VX9 version doesn’t come with wireless headphones. Since Bluetooth isn’t available, customers must buy Garrett’s proprietary MS3 wireless headphones, costing £113.95. This brings the total price to £743.90.

The Broken Promise of Upgradeability

The Garrett Vortex was pitched as a groundbreaking platform that allowed users to start with a base model and upgrade as their finances or experience dictated. So, what happened to this much-vaunted promise? The reality seems to fall far short of expectations.

Comparing Value: Is the Vortex VX9 Worth £743.90?

At £743.90 for the Vortex VX9 with headphones, it’s hard to justify the price when there are far better machines available for less—offering richer features and even including headphones as standard.

Consider the Minelab X-TERRA ELITE, priced at £479.00. Not only is it more affordable, but it also includes Minelab’s ML85 wireless headphones, delivering excellent value for money.

For those looking for more, the X-TERRA ELITE Expedition Pack offers an extra 8″ coil along with the ML85 headphones for £629.00. Even with these added features, it remains significantly cheaper than the Vortex VX9.

Then there’s the Nokta Triple Score Pro – Seasoned Searcher Pack, priced at £499.95. This comprehensive bundle includes two coils, Nokta wireless headphones, a Nokta pinpointer, a finds bag, a carrying bag, a digging tool, and even a Nokta baseball cap. It’s a compelling package that undercuts the Vortex VX9 by a considerable margin.

Conclusion: A Heritage Undermined

Garrett, a brand with a storied history and a reputation for excellence in the metal detecting industry, seems to have stumbled in both marketing and product execution with the Vortex. What should have been a revolutionary platform offering flexibility and choice has instead become a frustrating case of forced upgrades and misleading tactics.

This departure from customer-centric principles raises the question: what happened to empowering the consumer with genuine choice? For a company celebrated for innovation and reliability, this misstep is a disappointing turn. Here’s hoping Garrett takes this as an opportunity to reassess and realign with the values that made its name legendary in the first place.