An ideal welding helmet will allow you to see the colour better and adjust the lighting to do your work better and comfortable. Some of the latest models come with high-tech features and lightweight design. Being an important safety gear, it is important to choose the right one. For the same, we recommend considering the below factors while making the purchase.
View Area: If looking to weld without distraction from your helmet, then prefer to buy one offering a large and wider viewing angle of about 4X6 inches, rather than a helmet with a small viewing area. Also, a big viewing helmet is helpful while performing welding at odd angles and in restricted space. Shade Range: Most welding helmets offer a range of dark shade they provide against the bright sparks from welding. This range will be DIN 5/9 to DIN 9/13 (or) DIN 4/5 to DIN 9/13. A welding helmet with a larger shade range will offer precise control to the welder and thereby considered the better option.
Other factors are mentioned clearly in the “Buying Guide”. Read the information thoroughly to narrow down the best option. We have also picked the best-selling welding helmets for your reference.
Best Welding Helmets Table
Top Welding Helmets: Reviews
1. YESWELDER Darkening Welding Helmet
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Yeswelder is one of the most popular brands of welding tools and related accessories. You can even find welding helmets from Yeswelders that come in all shapes and sizes. The Yeswelder LYG-M800H welding helmet is present in the 1st position in this article as it is the best performing option present in this article. It comes with a large viewing area of 3.94-inch x 3.66 inch that is much higher when compared with other options present in this article. You also get a wide shade range of 4~5/9-9/13 in this welding helmet that makes it perfect for using with TIG, MIG, MIG arc welding or grinding that can be handy for a lot of users. A great thing about this welding helmet is that it is powered using solar energy. Due to this, you do not have to replace its CR2450 battery once it runs out. While this welding helmet only has the amazon replacement battery, it offers a great build quality to the user that is always great to have. You also get various safety standards with this helmet that include ANSI Z87.1, EN379 CE, and CSA Z94.3 that make it a highly safe welding helmet. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.94-inch x 3.66 inch Shade range of 4~5/9-9/13 30-day replacement policy Great build quality DIN 16 UV and IR protection 1/1/1/2 Optical Clarity ANSI Z87.1, EN379 CE, and CSA Z94.3 safety standards Inbuilt solar cell for power Replaceable CR2450 battery Easy to use control scheme
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
2. Antra Welding Helmet
Antra is a brand of welding accessories that has a high user rating because of all the features and options you get. This is also true for their AH6-260-0000 welding helmet. Antra’s AH6-260-0000 welding helmet is present in the 2nd position in this article as it is the cheapest option present in this article. Even though this is an affordable helmet, you get various features in it that makes it a high value for money product. Despite its entry-level price, you get a 1-year warranty that is always great to have. As for the shade range, this helmet has a wide range of 4/5-9/9-13 that can be easily adjusted using its controls. You also get a total of 7 extra lens covers in this welding helmet that make it compatible with TIG, MIG, MMA, and plasma welding machines so that all users can use it. The viewing area offered by this helmet is also quite decent since you get an area of 3.86-inch x 1.73 inch. It comes with a lightweight design due to which it weighs just 455 grams with dimensions of 9-inch x 9-inch x 12 inch that make this helmet quite compact and practical. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.86-inch x 1.73 inch Shade range of 4/5-9/9-13 1-year warranty Weighs 455 grams Dimensions of 9-inch x 9-inch x 12 inch Compatible with hard hat adapter Works with TIG, MIG, MAG, Flux Core, MMA, and Plasma cutter Passive UV and IR filter Comes with 7 lens covers
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
3. Lincoln Electric Welding Helmet
Lincoln can be a great option if you are looking for highly reliable and durable accessories like its welding helmet options, including the one mentioned in this article. This Lincoln K3034-4 welding helmet is present in the 3rd position in this article as it is the most durable and reliable option present in this article. This is due to the reason that it offers excellent build quality. You also get a 3-year long warranty with it that is much better than other options providing a 1-year warranty. While this welding helmet is a bit on the expensive side, it comes with premium optics that have a clarity of 1/1/1/1, which is one of the best out there. You also get a 12.5 square inch auto-darkening lens in this helmet that has a size of 3.74-inch x 3.34 inch. Apart from being large, this lens has a shade range of 5-13 that is more than enough for most users out there. If you want to use this helmet for a long time at once, you can easily do it due to its comfortable design. Its X6 headgear contours to the user’s head for an optimum fit. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.74-inch x 3.34 inch Shade range of 5-13 3-year warranty Excellent build quality 1/1/1/1 optical clarity 5 square inch lens size X6 headgear adjusts to the user’s head for optimum comfort Easily switch between welding and grinding modes as per needed Solar cell and CR2450 battery for power source
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
4. Dekopro Solar Powered Welding Helmet
Dekopro is another popular brand of welding accessories that includes things like various welding helmets. Thus we have mentioned one of the best options from Dekopro in this article. Dekopro’s welding helmet is one of the cheapest options available out there that makes it a great option if you are on a budget or want a value for money option. This welding helmet is fully solar-powered, which means that you do not have to charge it again and again. Despite its lower price tag, you get a decently large 3.85-inch x 3.15-inch viewing area in it that allows for welding quite easily and ergonomically. You also get a large 4/9-13 shade range in this welding helmet that can be adjusted quite easily. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.85-inch x 3.15 inch Shade range of 4/9-13 30-day replacement policy Decent build quality Change lens state within 0.1 to 1.0 second Weighs 1 pound Easy to change settings Solar panel with a life of up to 5000 hours
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
5. ESAB Welding Helmet
Esab can be another great option if you are looking for power tool accessories like a welding helmet. It offers various kinds of welding helmets that offer different features and options to the user. The ESAB 0700000800 Sentinel A50 welding helmet is one of the more premium options out there. It comes with a large viewing area of 3.93-inch x 2.36 inch that is more than enough for most users out there. Just like the previous Lincoln welding helmet, this one also offers a shade range of 5-13 that is quite decent. As for the optical clarity, this welding helmet is quite clear, as it is rated at 1/1/1/2. This means that you can precisely work and weld while wearing this helmet. Since this is a premium welding helmet, it offers a great build quality. You also get a 3-year long warranty with it that is always great to have in a helmet. You get a color touch screen control panel in this helmet that is quite advanced. It can store up to 8 users settings in its memory that allow you to quickly and easily change the settings. Its Halo headgear offers a 5 point contact design that is highly comfortable and ergonomic for using it for a long time. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.93-inch x 2.36 inch Shade range of 5-13 3-year warranty Optical clarity of 1/1/1/2 for clear vision Lightweight and compact design Color touch screen control panel for ease of use Save up to 8 user settings in its memory 5 point Halo headgear for comfort and ergonomics Great build quality
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
6. Miller Electric Welding Helmet
Miller is one of the latest brands out there that makes power tool related accessories. They also make a welding helmet that comes with various features and options. This Miller 281000 welding helmet comes with a Clear Light lens that offers a large size viewing area. You also get a shade range of 3-13 in this welding helmet that is quite high when compared with other options. As this helmet is quite expensive, it comes with a 3-year long warranty that ensures that you do not face any issues with it over time. You get a total of 3 shade modes in this helmet that can be quite handy while using it for welding or grinding. A great thing about this helmet is that it comes with a free helmet bag. This helmet has a unique headgear design and shape that makes it highly comfortable and ergonomic to use for a long time. Best Features:
Large viewing area ClearLight lens Shade range of 3-13 3-year warranty Great build quality Comes with free helmet bag Includes a total of 3 shade modes Comfortable and ergonomic headgear Lightweight design
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
7. Lincoln Electric Welding Helmet
Coming to the end of this article, we have another welding helmet option from Lincoln mentioned in this article. This one is quite similar to the previous one as it is welding helmet from the same 3350 series. Lincoln’s 3350 series welding helmet is slightly on the expensive side when compared with other expensive options out there. But you get an excellent build quality for the money that you pay to get this welding helmet. It even comes with a 3-year long warranty that means that you can keep using this helmet for a long time without facing any issues. Because of this helmet’s sturdy construction, it weighs 3.2 pounds, which might be a bit high for some users. Thankfully, the inner headgear of this welding helmet is quite comfortable and ergonomic. You get a large viewing area of 3.74-inch x 3.34 inch in this helmet that allows you to see everything while using this helmet for either welding or grinding. This also has a shade range of 5-13 that is similar to the previous Lincoln welding helmet mentioned in this article. It uses solar cells to power its lens that comes with the auto-darkening feature. It can switch the color of the lens within 1/25000 seconds. You also get a total of 4 arc sensors in this welding helmet that are quite useful to have. Best Features:
Viewing area of 3.74-inch x 3.34 inch Shade range of 5-13 3-year warranty Excellent build quality Switch shades within 1/25000 seconds Includes a total of 4 arc sensors Weighs 3.2 pounds Comfortable and ergonomic headwear Comes with an auto-darkening feature Easy to use controls Uses solar cells for power
Components:
Welding helmet User manual Warranty card
How to Choose the Best Welding Helmets:
A welding helmet is the most essential things for a welder to use at welding different metals for the safety of your face, especially for the eyes. To learn more about these helmets, you have to go through this detailed buying guide that includes all the essential information to know how to pick the right welding helmets. Let’s look into the factors to consider while shopping for welding helmets.
1. Style:
There are two main types of styles available for welding helmets – Passive and Auto-darkening. Let’s get into its details. Passive Style – This is a standard style helmet that usually has a shade #10 lens that won’t darken or lighten. It cannot be used for certain welding processes, yet one has to remove this helmet to inspect the work in between the welds. It is affordable and lighter weight and its lens has to be lifted and lowered (change) every time you start a new weld Auto-Darkening Style – It is an essential feature found in modern welding helmets. The mask’s lens can detect the produced light automatically (usually in the #8 – 13 shade range) while welding and can be adjusted to block it out for performing the welding task effectively. After finishing your welding and the sparks stop, then the lens will return to light setting automatically to make you see without lifting/opening the mask.
2. Viewing Area Size:
Do you need visibility over a wider area (or) welding out of position? Then this viewing area size is essential to consider. A few models offer a longer and a few come with a wider viewing area. For instance, a welding helmet with 4″ X 3″ is measured as a large viewing area, whereas 3.5″ X 1.75″ is a small viewing area. If you want to see everything while welding even wearing a helmet, then check for the helmet with a large viewing area. This large viewing area will ensure the user view is not obstructed and allow them to view everything clearly at the same time. So, the bigger the viewing screen of the helmet, the more the user can see and aids in the quality welding. This is a key feature for beginner welders, as observing the work area will make them complete the welding project quickly and easily. Also, a big viewing window is helpful for those who do a lot of out of position welding with odd angles. A few advanced helmets offer side lenses to provide 180° visibility. The viewing angle of a helmet depends on your personal preference and the project you are dealing with. For instance, if working in a restricted space, then you need a possible large viewing area of the helmet, as it is hard to adjust the body to see through clearly.
3. Lens Shade Options – Fixed Vs Variable:
A wide range of shades is available in auto-darkening welding helmet lens. A general rule is that helmet having more shades, then the more flexible you can perform various applications, especially gets benefitted while changing the settings and processes constantly. For instance, a helmet with a 9-13 shade is quite normal to use. While a 6 – 13 shade is your best option if working on low amperages where it is a bit harder to see the arc. Fixed Shade Helmet – It is your perfect option while performing a single type of weld with one type of material. Also, they provide only the maximum shade of #10 (fixed), which means that your welding won’t need something darker than this shade. Variable Shade Helmet – It is the best option for people performing different kinds of welds with different materials. This type of shade is much more expensive than a fixed one. It is the most common and widely used shade by most welders.
4. Shade Range:
Since the electric welding helmets can easily change their shade as per the convenience and requirement of the welders. So, they offer a wide range of shades and you should know the range of how dark the helmet can get. One can find options like 5 – 13 or 4 – 9 shade range. A higher range means that the given welding helmet is flexible and can be adjusted to the user’s need. Some of these helmets even offer automatic dimming features to change the current shade automatically by using sensors.
5. Lens Clarity:
Besides viewing window size, one should check the level of clarity a helmet lens offers before making its purchase. It let you know how clearly you see what you are working on. Usually, lenses are tested in 4 areas and their rating will be given in 1 – 3 (each), in which 1/1/1/1 is considered the best score than 1/1/1/2 and offers better optical clarity to have a clear vision. Premium or higher-end welding helmets offer this top score in lens clarity for better vision.
6. Lens Reaction Time:
The lens changing speed from light to dark after the arc is started is termed the lens reaction time. So, the faster the lens changing speed, the better it performs and helps you to complete the task quickly. This reaction time is measured in thousandths of a second. For instance, an entry-level model will react in 1/3600th of a second, while a professional model reacts quickly in 1/3200th of a second. While expecting repetitive exposure to the brighter light of an arc, then this lens reaction time becomes an essential factor to consider. A slight delay in darkening is equal to getting exposed to the glare of a photographic flashbulb. Though 1 or 2 flashes won’t cause much retinal damage, yet the effect of hundreds of these flashes done on prolonged time will cause cumulative damage.
7. Arc Sensors:
One should consider the number of arc sensors in an auto-darkening welding helmet while shopping for this type of welding helmet. These arc sensors will detect the flashes while working and helps to darken/dim the helmet quickly in a fraction of a second to protect the user’s eyes. Usually, less expensive helmet models offer 2 or fewer sensors, while more advanced models have 3 – 4 sensors. A helmet with 2 sensors will work well but it raises the risk of not detecting the flash while welding out of position. So, use a helmet model having 4 sensors will reduce the risk of helmet catching flashes that arise when sensors obstructed by few objects like pipes.
8. Sensitivity Control:
Generally, the auto-darkening welding helmets can easily set the minimum/lowest brightness level that triggers darkening. This manual feature is quite useful for those welding at low amperage, in which the welder requires increased sensitivity. Also, it is the best option while working in an environment with other welders & lots of arcs. Here it allows you to either decrease or increases the sensitivity, and thereby it won’t be triggered by other welder’s arcs.
9. Helmet Power Source for Auto-Darkening Helmets:
One has to consider the power supply while purchasing an auto-darkening helmet. These are powered by either lithium batteries, solar power, or both (in some cases). A helmet using both these power sources (a combination of these two) is considered the best option. The reason is that, if one power source runs out then you can still work by relying on another one, which means it extends the battery life of the helmet. Battery – Powered: If the welding helmet works on batteries, then check whether the power source is replaceable or not. The helmet using replaceable batteries are perfect than not replaceable one, why because it let you attach the batteries and use the helmet instantly. So, ensure that you have replacement sets of batteries along with you. Solar – Powered: A welding helmet that works on solar power is cost-effective, as you won’t have to worry about replacing batteries. Yet it is a bit challenging to use these solar-powered helmets in low-light situations. Auto-off is another useful feature that works well and found in most auto-darkening helmets. This feature will turn off the power automatically to save the battery’s life while not using the helmet.
10. Adjustable Delay Settings:
As the name implies, this feature will determine the amount of time your lens will remain active (dark) after finishing the welding arc. For instance, track welding has a short delay that helps you to do your work quickly. while welding at high amperage, it is best to have a long delay to stay the working/welding area bright longer, even the arc finished.
11. Safety Standards:
Welding helmets made with ANSI standards will offer full and adequate safety and protection to the users. A welding helmet should pass various rigorous testing to reach ANSI national safety standards, which includes protection from infrared, temperature, impact, and ultraviolet.
ANSI Z87.1 is the best current safety standards, which you have to purchase to ensure safety and protection while wearing a helmet and performing welding tasks. The manufacturer has to provide the specifications on their helmet on the package. Also, they need to confirm shade settings, changing speeds, and other specifications for their compliance. When done independent laboratory tests that undergo high impact speed tests from flying objects, in which its performance is checked in temperatures within 23°F – 131°F. This ensures steady protection from infrared and ultraviolet rays.
12. Headgear Comfort:
Comfort while wearing a welding helmet is another key feature that not to overlook while shopping for this helmet. It is better to pick a helmet having an adjustable harness that fits properly to the size of your head. Also, it let you adjust the helmet up, down, back or front to make it fit and allow you to work comfortably. For best experience and comfort, choose the helmet that allows you to tighten around the head to make it stay while bending your head at work. Choosing a lightweight, padded helmet will let you enjoy your welding work more comfortably and effectively.
13. Helmet Weight:
Are your professional welder and welding several hours by wearing a helmet? Then welding helmet’s weight is essential to consider. Wearing heavier weight welding helmets will cause more strain on the neck and may cause pain as well, though it won’t make you feel heavy when you place it on initially. Lighter helmets minimize the chance of causing stress injury even while wearing the helmet for a longer time and let you perform your welding task quickly and easily.
14. User-Friendly Controls:
Do you want to pick a helmet with manual controls? Then there are two options available – Internally positioned controls and Externally positioned controls. Each type has its own set of pros and cons. Let’s know about them in detail. External Positioned Controls – Having knobs on the outside of the helmet (external), you can adjust them easily without removing the helmet, thereby saves your energy and time. Most helmets feature bigger knobs that make it comfortable to do the adjustments, especially if you are wearing gloves. Internal Positioned Controls – While adjusting the internal knobs, you have to remove/take off the helmet. This lets you see what you are adjusting without unknowingly touching any knob by mistake. This feature is quite useful while welding in a confined space, like under a car. Though both external control and internal control are the best user-friendly controls, you can choose either one based on your requirement and convenience.
15. Grind Mode:
In some welding cases, you require a mask to protect your face, even though it won’t block out the light. For instance, you will make a great deal of dust and flying debris while using a grinder. Then wear a mask and keep it in the lowest setting, though it is unable to block bright sunlight or sparks. In such cases, most masks come with a grind mode. This grind mode feature is quite useful in both cases – while you are grinding (or) not grinding, as it let you see without lifting the mask constantly. It is a button-activated mode found on most helmets, which allow you to use it simply without removing the hood. Most of the welding helmets on the above products list have this grind mode feature.
16. Cheater Lens:
This cheater lens is quite useful when you need a little magnification to observe clearly what you are working on. It is a small magnifying lens that clamps inside the helmet’s viewing window used to enlarge what you are looking at. Also, to make it easy to get in and out of the mask, most manufacturers include a mounting system for cheater lenses.
17. Personalization:
You can choose a welding helmet with some artwork to show your personality from various styles of welding helmets available in the market. Instead of just classic black or grey, there are so many different colors available for welding helmets. Also, you can get graphic designs like eagles, flags, or flames on the flames to show your personality and passion. So, instead of wearing a normal helmet, you can add these features to make it much more attractive.
18. Accessories:
Are you looking for extras to enhance your welding experience? Then check out for accessories like a replacement lens cover, cheater/lens/hardhat compatibility, respiratory protection from welding fumes, and other accessories in your welding helmet, which you think quite useful for your welding work before buying.
19. Price:
One has to spend $100 or more to get a safe, durable welding helmet. But make sure to check whether the helmet meets minimum safety requirements set for the worksite along with ANSI protection standards or not while shopping at this price range. The price of expensive helmets will range from $200 – $500 (or above), which offer the best quality features like highly adjustable headbands, impact protection, larger viewing windows, a wider range of shade levels, and more light sensors to minimize the lens reaction time. So, check out the features and purchase the right one that comes under your budget range.
20. Warranty:
The length of the warranty period offered by a manufacturer is a reflection of their product quality. The longer the warranty, the better will be the product working efficiency. Though the welding helmet is just an accessory, yet you have to check the warranty on it when purchasing. Since it ensures you do not face any issues with the automatic features or control over time. Most companies offer a 1 – 2-year warranty on their product. It is best to find a helmet with a longer warranty period like 5 years, to make it more reliable, durable, and last longer.
How to make a welding helmet fit correctly?
In case if your newly purchased welding helmet won’t fit right and thereby not doing its job efficiently. Then here are some tips to help you get the best fit and allows you to do your work comfortably.
It is essential to wear a welding bandana (made with flame-retardant material) while fitting your helmet to protect your ears and head. Make sure to have a snug fit from the helmet. Ensure that there is sufficient space between the face and the front part of the helmet. If there is no space and you are too close to the lens, then you feel uncomfortable, sweat a lot, and may experience moisture-related issues. Choose the lightest helmet to wear, yet it should meet all of your specifications, as it provides the most comfort and less neck strain particularly if you welding for a longer period. The helmet has to move only whenever you move your head. After wearing the helmet and tightened comfortably, then check for a stable fit by leaning your head back and forward.
What to do with a welding helmet?
A quality welding helmet will provide safety and protection in various ways. Let’s know what are those benefits we get from these welding helmets. Eye Protection – The welding helmet lenses, especially having an auto-darkening feature designed to protect the welder’s eyes from the intense light of a welding arc. If using the helmet without this feature, then welders will suffer from serious retinal damage due to constant exposure to a brighter light source. Skin Protection – A shower of hot debris is created while welding. Also, small pieces of welding flux will penetrate an eye or burn the welder’s skin easily. So, wearing a helmet will protect your skin and face from that debris. Fatigue Reduction – In older days, welders used to suffer from painful neuromuscular problems due to the usage of heavy welding helmets. Even modern models are lighter in weight, they still let welders tilt their head down to lower the mask into position, yet they can wear the masks comfortably for a longer time till they complete the welding task.
Tips for Proper Care and Maintenance of Welding Helmets:
Purchasing the best product is not enough, you have to take proper care to protect and keep it running safely and thereby prolong its working life. So, here are some maintenance tips to follow to take care of your welding helmet. Follow Manufacturer’s Cleaning Instructions – Make sure to know how to clean the hood. Most of the modern helmets offer different features, in which your past cleaning routine may not work out for a new purchase. So, it is essential to check out the user manual or official website to know how to take proper care of your helmet and what cleaning products to be used. Must Clean After Use – Clean your helmet after using it every time, as it will not keep them in better shape, but it let you notice if the helmet has any cracks, scratches, or defects. Remember that cleaning after several uses will make it becomes major and hard to clean the helmet. Regular Inspection – Do a regular inspection of the helmet in detail before and after its use. Check out the helmet lens for any cracks or dents. If found any faulty, the helmet won’t protect you from the IR and UV rays. If found crack and scratch, then replace it with a new one. Thorough inspection after not using it for a prolonged time will help for its better performance. Create the inspection routine to make it work out faster and in a safer way. Proper Storage – It is best to store the helmet properly after completing your welding work. While not using, it requires protection from any potential risks. So, keep the helmet in a bag and store it away safe (away from kids & pets, areas having a lot of movement). Also, be cautious with the lens to provide proper protection and to serve you better for a longer time. Repairs & Replacements – In case if you find some helmet parts require repair or replacement after inspection. Perform it to clear injuries than for a replacement. Using a damaged helmet will reduce its lifespan. So, make sure to do the repairs and replacements quickly and don’t use the helmet until it is fixed. Want to replace yourself but don’t know how to do it, then hire a professional.
Conclusion:
If you are familiar with welding, then you must know that a welding helmet is quite important to have. You can even find electronic versions of these welding helmets that offer precise control to the user in terms of its shader level. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best welding helmets in this article, along with their details, including features and options. The detailed buying guide present in this article has all of the important details regarding welding helmets. Although, if you are still confused and not able to buy a welding helmet, you can choose one from our recommendations: Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any! Comment * Name * Email * Website
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