Unfortunately really the only person that can find out whether a detector personally suits you, is yourself. Choosing a detector, particularly in the starter/mid range can be a bit of a lottery on which will fit the bill, mainly due to the sheer numbers out there with different levels of ability and feature sets. Personally I think going from the 305 to the 200i is a bit of a backward step with respect to performance, as for ease of use, once again something you will have to find out for yourself.
Strangely enough I originally went from a multi-tone x-terra 305 to a single tone Tesoro Vaquero, of which I found the easier and more fun detector of the two to use. First time I walked into an extremely junky park with the 305, it was simply a case of information overload, combined with a lack of knowledge/experience on that detector at the time which made for not a very enjoyable detect. Given more time, I'm sure I would have enjoyed using te 305, guess I was a bit impatient on finding the "right" detector for me. What I did learn via the Vaquero, is how much easier it was detecting using tones vs relying predominantly on target ID's, and that knowledge and experience has since carried over to other detectors that I currently use.
A cheaper detector with lesser ability may be easier to use on shallower targets, though at the same time frustrating to use when progressing on to deeper pre-decimal targets, hence why a mid range detector with good all-round ability might be less frustating to use. How do you know whether it suits with regards to tones, ease of use use, ergonomics etc, pretty much the only way to find out is to make a purchase and give it a good go. If it doesn't suit (as with the 305), move it on and try something different - that's how I landed with a select few detectors that I really enjoy to use.
You really need a number of months to get your head around any given detector, even if it does seem overwhelming at first. Stick to factory programs/settings a first and try not to overcomplicate things too much, dial back the sensitivity and start off on the shallower targets before progressing to more problematic deeper/older targets. The beach would have to be one of the best places to learn a detector (dry sand), even if it means planting some coin and junk targets at varying depths to see how your detector responds.
Also don't be afraid to look at a more upmarket second hand detectors, I've purchased quite a few used VLF's in the past with absolutely zero mechanical or electrical issues cropping up over the years, look for detectors that have had little useage or have been well looked after by the owner.
