A Product is made from different Manufacturing Processes starting from Metal Casting, Joining to Machining. Of all the Manufacturing processes, the joining process is the most performed process. In the Joining process, Welding is used frequently due to its popularity and ease of use. If you are a Welder, you have to wear personal protective Equipment (PPE) which includes welding boots, welding goggles, Jackets, gloves, helmets, etc.
The Welding helmet is an essential part of your daily life to perform any welding operation. In Order to have a good helmet for your need, it is necessary to have some basic understanding of the factors considered while choosing a Welding Helmet. This article will list down all the parameters and some of the best available Welding helmets in the Market you can choose from.
After reading many Welding Helmets reviews and watching many videos on YouTube, we have prepared a list of the top 10 best Welding Helmets that would be a good deal to have one of them for your Work.
Here is the List of the Top 10 Welding Helmets for Welders in 2024:
| Name of Product | Image of Product | Sensors | Weight | Viewing area | Optical Clarity | Price |
| 1. Lincoln Electric K3034-4 VIKING 3350 |  | 4 (Arc Sensors) | 3 Pounds | 3.74 x 3.34 (in2) | 1/1/1/1 | Check price |
| 2. ESAB 0700000800 Sentinel A50 |  | 4 (Grind Buttons) | 1.4 Pounds | 3. 93 x 2. 36 (in2) | 1/1/1/2 | Check Price |
| 3. Hobart 770890 Auto-Darkening |  | 4 (Independent Arc Sensors) | 1.25 Pounds | 9.3 (in2) | 1/1/1/1 | Check Price |
| 4. Miller Electric Shade 3 and 8-12 |  | 2 (Arc Sensors) | 2 Pounds | 5.2 (in2) | 1/1/1/1 | Check Price |
| 5. Miller 280045 Black Digital Infinity Series |  | 4 (Arc Sensors) | 2.99 Pounds | 13.4 (in2) | 1/1/1/2 | Check Price |
| 6. 3M Speedglas 9100, 06-0100-30iSW, with ADF 9100XXi |  | 3 (Shades Adjustment) | 1 Pounds | 2.8 x 4.2 (in2) | 1/1/1/2 | Check Price |
| 7. Antra Wide Shade Range 4/5-9/9-13 Auto Darkening |  | 4 (reductant Arc Sensors) | 1 Pounds | 3.86 x1.73 (in2) | 1/1/1/2 | Check Price |
| 8. Jackson Safety Ultra-Lightweight Insight Variable Auto Darkening Filter |  | 4 | 2 Pounds | 3.93 x 2.36 (in2) | 1/1/1/1 | Check Price |
| 9. YESWELDER True Color Solar Power Auto Darkening |  | 4 (Arc Sensors) | 2.2 Pounds | 3.93X3.66 (in2) | 1/1/12 | Check Price |
| 10. DEKOPRO Auto-darkening and Solar Powered |  | 4 | 0.6 Pounds | 3.85 x 3.15 (in2) | 1/1/1/2 | Check price |
Use this Link to learn more about Optical Clarity and how is it coded.
What is a Welding Helmet, its types and Needs?
Welding helmet comes in Headgears Category, worn during Welding works to protect our Face, eyes, and neck from flash Burn. Wearing a welding helmet is necessary for the person performing Welding work (also called Welder).
Types of Welding Helmets:
| Name of the type | Definition | Advantage(s) | Disadvantage(s) |
| Passive Helmet | Simple with no Extra feature. | • Tougher and Stronger Material • Very affordable • Easy to Use | • It is not effective as Other Modern Helmets |
| Auto-darkening | Detect the Light emitted and adjust the Lens automatically to get the clear view | • Adjustable Lens helps to see clearly through all the conditions • Easy to Use • Increases the | • Not affordable |
| Solar-powered lens | Auto-Darkening lens are Solar Powered | • Use of Solar Powered Lens is Economical • Easy to Use • Increases Productivity | • It is very Costly • It is not ready to use |
| Battery-powered | It consists of Lens that is Battery Powered. Other components, such as Sensors may also be battery Powered | • Easy to Use • Increases Productivity • Contains additional features that reduces the Manual efforts during Welding | • It is very costly • It is not Economical than Solar Powered Helmets • Need to replace the Battery many times |
| Fixed-shade lens | It comes with lens with conventional shade level 10, and is not adjustable | • It will be advantageous if you work on only one type of Project • Good for New welders and will help them learn things in easy way • It is not costly and affordable | • It might reduce Productivity • We can’t use this Helmet for different Projects |
| Variable-shade lens | It is just the Opposite of Fixed Shade lens Welding helmets, consist of adjustable Lens to help work in different Projects | • It will help you work on different Projects • Increases the Welders visibility tenfold • Increases the Productivity | • Costly and not affordable |
The following list Summarizes the need/reason for the use of Welding Helmets during Welding works:
- Protect Eyes from Sparks and Burns because it can cause severe pain to eyes if Openly exposed
- Protection of Face and neck from Burns, from the flames, generated
- It also helps to adjust with the change in the surroundings and to see the metals Joining area, which We can’t see from the naked eyes
Factors to be Considered While Choosing a Welding Helmet
There are varieties of Welding Helmets available in the Market at different prices with different features. It is essential to select the Right One for you if you are involved in any welding work. In this heading, we will be listing various factors to be considered while choosing the right Helmet for your need.
The following list contains the factors for selecting the right Helmet for your need:
1. Viewing Area:
It is the most important factor to be taken into account while buying one for your need. The Specification of the Manufacturer indicates the viewing area, which depicts the available area your eyes can see during the Welding. Hence, it becomes crucial to see the Viewing area according to your need before buying.
2. Optical Clarity:
It depicts how you can see through the Helmet. Knowing the Optical clarity according to your needs is very important. The Specification contains coding that depicts the Optical clarity. If you are going to buy a helmet, use this Link to learn the coding of Optical clarity, which will help you to choose the Right One according to your need.
3. Comfort:
A Welder works for a long time in a day. Hence, it requires to have comfort while wearing the Helmet. While buying the One for your needs, check the comfort either from the Product video or the Customers review.
4. Cost:
It may be the most important factor for someone, but due to the availability of a variety of Welding helmets at various prices, this may be less preferable for many. Do check the cost and compare it with Others you have selected in the list.
5. Powering the Helmet:
Some advanced Helmet contains Battery or Solar Power system. Do check the Power specification to choose the best ones for your need.
6. Quality Standards:
The Helmet you choose should meet ANSI z87.1 – 2003 (also referred to as ANSI Z87+) or European BS EN 175:1997 standards.
7. Lens Reaction Time (Switching Time):
The lens reaction time Indicates the time it takes to adjust the lens to see the spark through it comfortably. The time should be minimal, as the slightest delay may cause your eye to the pain and make it red.
Following the above factors will help you choose the right Welding helmet for your need. Moreover, we have listed down some of the best available ones in the Market. Do check it out to prepare the list and start searching for the best available according to your need.
Best Welding Helmets: Review
1. Lincoln Electric K3034-4 VIKING 3350
Our list’s first product is from Lincoln Electric, ranked number 9 in Welding Helmets on Amazon. It is the best available considering all the factors mentioned in the article. It consists of various features, having advantage(s) and disadvantage(s).
- Auto-darkening filter glass
- 4 Arc sensors
- Rating: 4.8/5
Features:
- It consists of an Auto-darkening filter glass
- Contains 4 Arc sensors
- Have Continuous light Sensitivity control
- Large viewing area of 12.5 square Inches
- It consists of 4C lens technology for accurate color viewing
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Lincoln Electric |
| Part number | K3034-4 |
| Item Number/Model number | K3034-4 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 3 Pounds |
| Product Dimension | 12.6 x 10.6 x 10.4 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Auto-darkening lens can adjust according to any condition
- Large Viewing area
- 4 Arc sensors for quick response and proper use
- Active grind mode
- Very High Quality and Professional Helmet
- Power Option consist of both Battery and Solar
- It contains Helmet bag, bandana, 5 outside lenses, 2 inside
- It contains dial inside, to change senstivity and shade level
Cons
- According to some customers review, the product is not much comfortable on wearing
- There is no proper protection to stop the light and it may come from any direction
- The Product may be costly for some peoples
2. ESAB 0700000800 Sentinel A50
- Color touch Screen control
- Large viewing area
- Rating: 4.8/5
Features:
- It has Nylon shell design of the Helmet
- 3. 93 x 2. 36 Square Inches Large viewing area
- Color touch Screen control with 8 separate memory settings
- Optical clarity of 1/1/1/2
- Infinitely adjustable to provide comfort at all the Positions
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | ESAB |
| Part number | 0700000800 |
| Item Number/Model number | 0700000800 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 1.4 Pounds |
| Product Dimension | 21.65 x 13.78 x 13.78 inches |
| Material | Nylon |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Color touch Screen control with 8 separate memory settings
- Large Viewing area
- Very Light Weight
- It is very good for car welding applications
- Very High Quality and Professional Helmet
- Power Option consist of both Battery and Solar
- Infinitely adjustable to provide comfort at all the Positions
Cons
- Replacing the front curved lens is costly
- Glass may suffer from glare issues
- The Product may be costly for some peoples
3. Hobart 770890 Auto-Darkening
- Auto-darkening lens
- 4 Independent Arc Sensors
- Rating: 4.7/5
Features:
- It consists of Auto-darkening lens
- Have Grind mode
- It consists of variable shade level, from 8-13
- It consists of 4 Independent Arc Sensors
- Large Viewing area of 9.3 Square Inches
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Hobart Welding Products |
| Part number | 770890 |
| Item Number/Model number | 770890 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 1.25 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 11.8 x 14 x 12 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Switch for Sensitivity and delay control
- Auto Shut off available
- Battery charge Indicator
- According to some Customers review, it has good Optical clarity
- Helmet offers side and Top adjustment
- Presence of Sensors makes it easy to Operate
- Product is cheaper compared to Others
Cons
- May darken in Shop lightning
- Battery needs to be replaced and recharge every time
4. Miller Electric Shade 3 and 8-12
- variable shades
- 2 Independent Arc Sensors
- Rating: 4.7/5
Features:
- It consists of variable shades, which helps to adjust in different situations
- Switching speed of 1/10000 seconds
- Variable shades consisting of shades 3, 8-12
- It consists of 2 Independent Arc Sensors
- Viewing area of 5.2 Square Inches
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Miller Electric |
| Part number | 251292 |
| Item Number/Model number | 251292 |
| Type | Battery powered, Variable shade |
| Item Weight | 2 Pounds |
| Product Dimension | 11.1 x 10.2 x 9.4 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Low switching time for least stress on Eyes
- Variable shades help in application for different Projects
- Nylon material is highly durable
- 2 Sensors present to change the shades of the lens
- Grind Mode
- Both Battery and Solar Powered available
- Product is cheaper compared to Others
Cons
- Viewing area is smaller than Other Options available
- Since, it is made of Nylon. Glass may suffer from glare issues.
5. Miller 280045 Black Digital Infinity Series
- aAutomatically On and Off facility
- 4 separate arc sensors
- Rating: 4.7/5
Features:
- Contains automatically On and Off facility
- Various Modes available including, Weld, grind, cut, X-Mode
- Contains 4 separate arc sensors
- Automatic adjustable setting for better fit and comfort
- Switching time of 1/20000 seconds
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Miller Electric |
| Part number | 280045 |
| Item Number/Model number | 280045 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 2.99 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 12 x 12 x 10 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- X-mode electromagnetically senses the Arc and eliminate Sun triggering
- Customer reviews says that the Headgear is comfortable
- LCD Screen is used for adjustment
- Contains true color filter
- Improved digital mode allows user to easily adjust modes and setting
- Switching time is very less
- Very large viewing area as compared to Others
Cons
- Product is costly and not affordable for everyone
- Customer reviews says that it slips forward sometimes
6. 3M Speedglas 9100, 06-0100-30iSW, with ADF 9100XXi
- Auto Darkening Filter
- Auto-On facility
- Rating: 4.6/5
Features:
- Improved Optical characteristics makes it easier to see different colors
- It Meets ANSI Z87.1-2010 impact standard
- Contains Auto-On facility
- External Grinding mode activation
- Snap adjustable for 9 different Helmets angles
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | 3M |
| Part number | 06-0100-30iSW |
| Item Number/Model number | 70071688561 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 1.00 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 11 x 11 x 10 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Professional graded Welding Helmets
- Meets ANSI Z87.1-2010 impact standard
- External Grinding mode activation
- Auto-On facility for quick start
- It provides good vision for different conditions
- Switching time is very less
Cons
- Product is very costly and not affordable for everyone
- Customer reviews says loosening of headgear at the starting
- Little heavier than some of other in the class
- Small viewing area as compared to Other Product in the List
7. Antra Wide Shade Range 4/5-9/9-13 Auto Darkening
- Auto-darkening filter glasses
- Passive UV/IR filter
- Rating: 4.6/5
Features:
- Passive UV/IR filter work perfectly and continuously
- Consist of Auto-darkening filter glasses (Shades 5-13)
- Adjustable delay and sensitivity
- Contains Quick grinding Option
- Can be used for cutting, grinding and Welding Operations
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | Antra |
| Part number | AH6-260-0000 |
| Item Number/Model number | AH6-260-0000 |
| Type | Battery and Solar powered, Variable shading |
| Item Weight | 1.00 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 9 x 9 x 12 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- The Helmet is very light-weight
- Variable shading for different project Works
- Switching time is very less (1/25000 seconds)
- Consist of Solar as well as battery charging
- Contains Auto shutoff
- Price is very less as compared to Other in the List
Cons
- Not good for Overhead and Industrial use
- Customer reviews says there is flash during the Welding
- Sunlight causes Auto darkness
- Smaller viewing area as compared to Other Product in the List
8.Jackson Safety Ultra-Lightweight Insight Variable Auto Darkening Filter
- Digital Filter and Shade control
- Auto-dark mode
- Rating: 4.6/5
Features:
- It has Digital Filter and Shade Control
- Contains Auto-dark mode
- Have Grind mode
- It Meets ANSI Z87.1 Impact standard
- Un-obstructed view during welding without taking out the hood
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | SureWerx |
| Part number | 46131 |
| Item Number/Model number | 46131 |
| Type | Battery powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 2 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 1 x 1 x 1 inches |
| Material | Nylon |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Easy to Use auto-dark controlling mode
- It is most widely used in Industry
- The Current product is easily interchangeable with Other Jackson shell
- Large Viewing area
- Contains variable shade from 9-13 for variety of Applications
- Used for grinding and Welding
Cons
- Slightly Heavier as compared to Others
- The covered face has no region to get fresh air
9. YESWELDER True Color Solar Power Auto Darkening
- 6 Auto-darkening sensors
- Auto-darkening side view ports
- Rating: 4.5/5
Features:
- Lens provides 180 degrees view
- Auto-darkening side view ports
- Viewports at the face darken Independently
- 6 Auto-darkening sensors for better control
- Switching time less than 1/10000 seconds
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | JingsuMexin Optoelectronics Technology Co.Ltd |
| Part number | LYG-M800H |
| Item Number/Model number | 5 |
| Type | Battery and Solar powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 12.5 x 7.9 x 9.75 inches |
| Material | Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Large Viewing area
- Side lens provide better view up to 180 degrees of vision
- Fits into tight area
- All the lens works Independently for better vision
- Solar Powered and Hence no exchange of batteries
- 6 Auto darkening helps in true color display
- Cheaper as compared to others products with the given features
Cons
- Slightly Heavier as compared to Others
- Customer reviews says there is Inadequate Shade levels
10. DEKOPRO Auto-darkening and Solar Powered
- Auto-darkening and Solar Powered
- UV/IR with Shade 16
- Rating: 4.3/5
Features:
- Auto-darkening and Solar Powered
- Switching time of 1/25000 seconds
- Protects from UV/IR with Shade 16
- Viewing area of 3.85 x 3.15 Square Inches
- Variable shade for variety of Project Works
- Recommended for Automotive and construction Works
Specifications:
| Manufacturer | DEKOPRO |
| Part number | FBA-NBRQ-WAB |
| Type | Battery and Solar powered, Auto-darkening |
| Item Weight | 0.6 pounds |
| Product Dimension | 8.66 x 10.24 x 9.06 inches |
| Material | PP, Plastic |
| More detail(s) | Click here |
Pros
- Large Viewing area as compared to Other
- Less Switching time protects the Eyes
- Contains variety of Shades for different project Works
- All the lens works Independently for better vision
- Solar Powered and Hence no exchange of batteries
- Recommended for Industrial Uses
- It is the lightest of all the product in our List
Cons
- Sunlight causes Auto darkness
Conclusion
The Products mentioned in the article are the best Product currently available in the market. We would highly recommend taking them as your starting choice. Following is the summary of the factors that are needed to be considered before buying any Welding helmet:
- The viewing area of the lens should be large, as this will provide a better view of the surrounding
- Find the correct Welding helmet with proper Optical clarity according to your Application
- Cost and comfort are also One of the Important Factors to Look into
- Power Mechanism of the Sensors and lens
- Switching time, which should be as small as possible
- The Product must meet the ANSI Standard
We recommend you make an excel sheet and write down all the selected factors and names of all the Welding helmets and give them points according to the features. Select the Welding helmet with the maximum points.
FAQs
Q 1: How to use the Welding Helmets?
Ans: Welding Helmets are worn on the face and tighten with the head during the Welding Operation. It contains various shades, which we can change with the button available. You can also On and off the lens at your face with the help of Buttons.
Q 2: How to choose the best Welding helmets?
Ans: Choosing the best products includes certain factors, such as viewing area, comfort, Switching time, Optical clarity, Etc.
Q 3: Which material is better, Nylon or Plastic?
Ans: Nylon is better than Plastic, but it has certain shortcomings. It is less Anti-glare than Plastic, and we can form scratch easily on them.
Q 4: What is ANSI Z87.1 – 2003 Impact standards?
Ans: It is a standard that aims at the Protection of Eyes. All the Welding helmets need to go through a certain test to get the certifications. You can find more information at this Link.
