I love the ACE. I think a lot of people get attached to a particular machine or maker and then zealously support. I bought a 2nd Garrett machine because I was happy with my first Garrett machine , the ACE 250. I moved up to the GTI 2500. Like many I figured, correctly so, that it would reduce the learning curve and would make previous experience more relevent. So people who love Whites machines upgrade to better Whites and so on.
I wish I had the opportunity to try out every machine out there. If I do get another machine I will probably go for a different maker. Not because I am dissatisfied but because I want to learn more. Also I am sure some makers machines may shine in areas that others dont.
I cant speak for any other machine because quite frankly it must take 100 or more hours minimum to be able to fairly evaluate in my opinion.
I havent used a F2 so I cant speak about them. I have seen many happy F2 users on this forum who speak highly of it and I have no reason to doubt them. Same can be said for the ACE250.
As an ACE user I can say that it has found me thousands of coins and a pile of silver.
It is light and easy to use. I used mine for many many months without the benefit of a pinpointer- just using the pinpointing on the machine.
Bad points..... I broke the forearm supports on both of my aces ( I have one at home and one at my office ). I repaired on my own easily with duct tape...no problems since.
It is loud and you cannot change the volume. Some people wear the headphones around their necks
For people starting out the sniper coil is probably a good idea.