| Best Choice |
|
Dekopro MC238 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Best Value |
|
YesWelder LYG-L500A Auto Darkening Welding Helmet | CHECK LATEST PRICE | |
| Premium Pick |
|
Lincoln 3350 Welding Helmet | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
- 1. Dekopro MC238 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
- 2. YesWelder LYG-L500A Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
- 3. Lincoln Electric 3350 Welding Helmet
- 4. Instapark ADF Series GX-500S Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
- 5. Tacklife PAH03D Welding Helmet
- 6. Antra AH7-860-001X Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
- 7. Tooliom TL-M800D Welding Helmet
- 8. Tekware MOTO90 Spaceman Series Welder Mask
- 9. Tanox ADF-206S Welding Helmet
- 10. ESAB Sentinel A-50 Welding Helmet
While you may stumble across professionals who skip safety gear, you’ll never find one staring at a welding arc without a helmet. That’s because welder’s flash is a serious issue that physically burns the retina, potentially causing permanent damage and blindness. Besides, nobody enjoys taking sparks to the face.
Of course, welder’s helmets are nothing new. Not even auto-darkening models are groundbreaking technology anymore. But the levels of the convenience they bring to the table are still worth getting excited about. The auto-darkening feature allows you to free up both hands for continuous use of the welder and even enable it to be used for other projects.
The list of benefits can go on, but you already know the importance and benefits of these pieces of equipment if you’re reading this. You’re just looking for some pointers on which products you should consider and why. We’ve got them for you.
The Best Auto Darkening Welding Helmets
The Dekopro Welding Helmet is a perfect helmet for moderate to extended use at an affordable price point. That’s what makes it our top pick. Eye protection is guaranteed by the auto-darkening function’s ability to activate in 1/25,000 of a second. Additionally, this helmet offers a vast field of view that is complimented by three manual adjustments. With this helmet, you can adjust shade level, sensitivity, and delay to find the setting that best suits them. Additionally, this helmet is very lightweight and offers full protection of the head and neck.
We must note that the lightweight is partly on account of thinner materials. While this helmet may not be suited for professional use, it deserves our top pick because it gives entry-level welders and hobbyists access to superior function.
- Wide Lens
- Fast Auto-darkening Function
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Extended Shell Design
- Brand Deckopro
- Model MC238
- Weight 1lb
Affordable Price Point
Lightweight
Thin Shell Construction
Thin Straps
If you’re in the market for a decent welding helmet but want to save money, the YesWelder True Color Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet is a good option. Like most auto-darkening helmets, the system operates on solar power, which is very convenient for use outdoors. Three controls provide users the ability to fine-tune the settings. Two adjustments, sensitivity, and delay are inside the helmet while a shade control dial is located externally. The helmet’s view screen has the traditional green color, which works to eliminate eye strain making for a more enjoyable working experience.
This is a perfectly viable option for MIG, TIG, MMA welding, and grinding. It isn’t the best design for professionals, especially considering the weight of almost two pounds. However, it still works for beginners and is an excellent spare for pros to keep on hand.
- True-Color Lens
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Solar Powered
- Brand YesWelder
- Model LYG-L500A
- Weight 1.9lbs
Very Low Price
Heavy
This welding helmet from Lincoln Electric is a premium pick because it’s a heavy hitter in every way. Often, helmets feel “off-balance” as they tend to cater to a particular design. For example, many with exceptionally wide lenses feature lenses that offer second-best clarity levels. Or they provide excellent clarity but not enough coverage.
This model is an exception to the rule as it offers the best in every field. It has a very wide lens and top-notch clarity. That makes it very easy to see regardless of the position or lighting. Furthermore, it provides superior coverage of the neck and head. The shell may seem bulky on paper, but the head strap design ensures there is no fatigue on the neck.
- Wide Lens
- Top-Tier Optical Clarity Rating
- Extended Shell Design
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Brand Lincoln Electric
- Model 3350
- Weight 1.25lbs
Superior Field of View
Superior Optical Clarity
Premium Price Point
Hobbyists need a helmet they can depend on for quick tasks. The Instapark ADF Series GX-500S Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet is an excellent option for small projects as it offers ample protection and clarity and lands at a competitive price point. This helmet provides full coverage of the head and neck but weight isn’t compromised in doing so. It will fit most users comfortably, and the spacious design allows for users to wear glasses underneath. Additionally, this helmet’s auto-darkening feature works at just 1/25,000 of a second, which is comparable to professional-grade models. The large lens provides an excellent range of view, which can prove useful while working in tight spots.
One thing keeping this helmet from taking our pick for best value is its head straps. Quality seems to be neglected here, and it is something worth being aware of.
- Extended Shell Design
- Wide Lens
- Solar Powered
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Fast Auto-Darkening Function
- Brand Instapark
- Model GX-500S
- Weight 1.6lbs
Very Low Price
Spacious Interior Design
Poor Quality Head Straps
Thin Shell Construction
The standard lens size, an abundance of features, and simple operation make the Tacklife PAH03D Welding Helmet our choice for experienced amateur welders. This helmet is designed for prolonged use. The fully adjustable headband with breathable straps makes for the most comfortable experience possible. The large lens complements the user experience, but is still of standard size, making it easy to locate replacement lens protectors. Furthermore, the top-tier optical clarity ratings make up for the limited field of view. Multiple adjustments and modes make this helmet a perfect choice for arc, TIG, and MIG welding, as well as plasma cutting and grinding.
What you should be aware of is that this model offers limited protection. It still covers your entire head—just not your neck. This is something many other models of a comparable price do offer.
- Wide Viewing Angle
- Top Optical Clarity Rating
- Breathable Straps
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Brand Tacklife
- Model PAH03D
- Weight 1.15lb
Affordable Price
Breathable and Lightweight
Limited Coverage
Many welders want the most extensive field of view possible. The Antra AH7-860-001X Auto Darkening Welding Helmet features a huge lens that measures at 3.86-by-3.5 inches, making it a worthy of attention. Despite the large lens, this helmet is very lightweight and specifically designed to reduce strain on the user’s neck. This allows the welder to forget they’re even wearing the helmet at all. Furthermore, this helmet offers full protection of the neck and head. All adjustments are located inside the helmet. This does mean making adjustments requires the helmet to be lifted or removed but makes working in tight spaces easy with no risk of bumping dials.
For the price, this helmet is hard to beat. However, the cost of replacement lens protectors is something to be aware of.
- Ultra-Wide Lens
- Lightweight
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Brand Antra
- Model AH7-860-001X
- Weight 1.18lbs
Superior Field of View
Affordable Price
Expensive Lens Protectors
Another contender for budget-minded shoppers is the Tooliom TL-M800D Welding Helmet. This model uses a true-color lens technology, which provides a far better sight of the weld puddle and surroundings. Furthermore, it has a very wide lens that provides an excellent field of view, even in tight spaces. Despite its low price, it has dial-operated adjustments. This offers far more control over the settings than traditional switch-based adjustments you could expect to find on a helmet of a comparable price.
It features a decent design for the head straps. However, it is constructed of thinner material and many reviews indicate a lack of attention to sharp edges that can cause discomfort. It may not be ideal for professional use.
- True-Color Lens
- Wide Lens
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Brand Tooliom
- Model TL-M800D
- Weight 2lbs
Very Low Price Point
Poor Strap Design
The Tekware MOTO90 Spaceman Series Welder Mask is another product on our list that comes close to snagging our top pick from the Dekopro. This model narrowly misses because it’s nearly double the price. However, the features and performance still make it a worthy investment. The term “Spaceman” is indicative of the overall shape of the helmet. While it does provide a unique look, it is also advantageous as it allows for superior maneuverability in tight spaces. It even features a wide lens to increase overall visibility.
It doesn’t stop there, as the lens itself has an exceptionally high visibility rating. While it is not the highest possible rating, it is far better than many masks in its price range. Overall, it is an excellent middle of the road option.
- Unique Shell Design
- Wide Lens
- Dial-Operated Controls
- Brand Tekoware
- Model MOTO90
- Weight 1.10lb
Lightweight
Superior Maneuverability
High Price
Here we find another great value option, the Tanox ADF-206S Welding Helmet. This model is a fantastic option for entry-level welders along with hobbyists. It offers excellent clarity, decent viewing, and superior protection. What we like the most about the model is the level of protection it provides the user. This design offers plenty of coverage to the top of the head and extends well past the chin, covering your neck. The wide lens complements this level of protection by reducing the need to reposition in tight spaces.
Of course, in this price range, you can expect to find some limitations. The head strap is the Achilles heel of this model. It can be challenging to set just right. Dropping the helmet down before welding typically requires one to push it down manually, which isn’t ideal when both hands are needed to start welding.
- Extended Shell Design
- Wide Lens
- Dial Operated Controls
- Brand Tanox
- Model ADF-206S
- Weight 1.6lbs
Offers Excellent Protection
Stiff Joints on Straps
It’s time we break out the big guns and take a look at the ESAB Sentinel A-50 Welding Helmet. This is no budget-level entry offering. However, it features some design implements many professionals will appreciate.
The shell design looks excellent but is put in place to offer maximum maneuverability and save weight. Despite the use of high-impact nylon, it retains a weight of just over a pound. This is a little more than many others, but the well-thought-out head straps work to reduce strain on the neck.
- Unique Shell Design
- Heavy-Duty Construction
- Touchscreen Controls
- Premium Strap Design
- Wide Lens
- Lightweight
- Brand ESAB
- Model Sentinel A-50
- Weight 1.4lbs
Very Comfortable
Superior Maneuverability
Premium Price Point
Best Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Buying Guide & FAQ
So, what should you be looking for in a helmet? Before we begin, it’s important that we preface our discussion by stating that professionals should invest their money in the best helmet they can afford. Even if there are affordable options with desirable features, setting yourself up with a top-of-the-line helmet offers a level of insurance for daily use that many cannot.
That isn’t to say there aren’t ways to save money. There are many “low-buck” welder’s helmets that function just as well as any professional will need them, too. With that in mind, let’s talk about some of the defining features of a good helmet.
Benefits of an Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet
When auto-darkening helmets made their debut over 20 years ago, they brought a few major benefits to the table. With them being the standard for head and eye protection for welding today, it’s easy to take them for granted. Still, these benefits are still relevant.
Like all protective gear in this segment, they are designed specifically to protect the head and the eyes. But to really appreciate them, you should compare them to designs that feature lenses with a fixed shade setting. While they are still useful, they have more than a few shortcomings compared to those with the auto-darkening feature.
- Enhanced Safety: The auto-darkening feature allows you to see at all times, providing you the ability to be positive of the diode’s position.
- Free Hands: By not having to lift or lower the helmet between welds, you free both hands for continuous use.
- Versatility: The auto-darkening feature is almost always adjustable, which allows a single helmet for use with many projects, including cutting and welding.
The Most Common Types of Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets
The auto-darkening feature functions on behalf of electrical power, and how this power is supplied can vary. Luckily, there are only two primary power sources for welders helmets, and you can easily differentiate the characteristics of either. Unfortunately, neither offers distinct advantages and disadvantages. That means which you decide to work with comes down to personal preference.
Solar-Powered
Solar-powered helmets are far more common. They, too, have a built-in battery, but it is constantly recharged by solar power. This is particularly advantageous to welders that regularly weld outdoors, especially considering it will charge the battery when the helmet is in use.
These helmets also tend to be a bit lighter than those that rely solely on a battery. While it may only be a minor amount, any weight savings can significantly reduce fatigue during prolonged projects.
Unfortunately, the batteries typically are not replaceable by normal means. That gives these types of helmets a limited lifespan. While most last six to eight years, opting for premium models can add up to a considerable expense over time. However, there are means to replace the battery, so long as you’re brave enough to cut into the housing.
Battery-Powered
Helmets that rely solely on battery power are designed to work with a replaceable or rechargeable lithium battery. While solar-powered models offer a level of convenience, this design does have its advantages.
For one, if the battery is dead, you can simply replace it and not have to wait for the solar panels to charge it. Additionally, they have a much longer lifespan because the battery is replaceable. So long as the mask is properly maintained, it should outlast a solar-powered one by a considerable amount of time.
The primary disadvantage is that you actively need to monitor the battery levels to prevent flashing yourself. Also, one should note that many battery-powered models feature an on/off switch. Again, there is a risk of flashing yourself if you forget to turn the power on before use.
The Most Important Features of Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
It can be hard to tell the difference between welder’s helmets if you only take things at surface value. However, there are plenty of features that can vastly separate them from one another. Of course, there is some wiggle room based on your specific needs. However, you should pay careful attention to some key factors.
Shell Design
A welder’s helmet is designed to protect your eyes and your head. Most provide coverage from the top of your head to your chin. However, some feature extended designs to provide additional coverage.
For example, it is not uncommon for the lower portion of the mask to have a lengthened design to protect your chin and neck. Furthermore, many models provide just a little more coverage of the sides and top of your head.
Of course, these designs typically drive up the price point, but they are worthy of investing in, especially if you do work that requires you to weld in positions that will leave the top of your head or chin exposed.
Lens Size
How well you can see out of the mask is just as important as protection. Many designs feature a lens that allows you to see directly in front of you and not much else. That is perfect for projects that provide you with a stationary position and ideal placement of the workpiece, but many welders will often venture from this setting.
Performing welds in awkward positions are part of the job for many, and in those positions, you may not be able to easily move your head. For this reason, it can be beneficial to select a helmet that has a wider lens to increase your field of view.
Adjustment Controls
Any auto-darkening helmet features the ability to make adjustments to the lens. How these adjustments are made can make a major difference in your experience using it.
Lower buck helmets typically feature “high/low” switches to control settings such as sensitivity and delay functions. They certainly work but don’t offer the ability to fine-tune the mask’s settings. Dials are far more desirable by many because they do allow you to set each function exactly as needed.
Today, you will also find models with a touchscreen that controls these settings as well. However, you can expect this option to be limited to high-dollar options.
Head Strap Design
This may seem like a luxury, but it is far more important than you may initially perceive it to be. You will be wearing your helmet for long periods, and even the slightest design flaw can become a major problem.
You want a helmet that you can adjust so that it feels natural on your head. Proper strap design, placement, and adjustments can vastly reduce strain on the neck during extensive projects. You also don’t want anything to dig into the sides of your head. All in all, you really want to select a helmet that is comfortable enough so that you hardly notice it’s there.
Care and Maintenance for Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
One of the most important things you can do for your helmet is to care for it properly. The manufacturer is going to supply cleaning instructions, and you should follow them. Each helmet’s routine is subject to the design, which means each will have a unique cleaning process.
However, there are some other things to keep in mind. Just cleaning it can’t prevent or remedy other issues. Luckily, there’s nothing complicated about proper care for your helmet. In fact, it all comes down to using common sense and being mindful of what you subject the helmet too.
- Proper Storage: You never want to leave it where other items can damage it, and manufacturers often supply you with storage bags to aid with this.
- Change Shields Regularly: Over time, scratches will accumulate on the lens protector, reducing vision quality, and they should be replaced.
- Be Mindful of the Environment: Always be careful to prevent content with sharp or abrasive objects because one bump can cause permanent damage to the lens.
Best Auto Darkening Welding Helmet FAQs:
Now it’s time to answer some questions. We’ve selected some of the most frequently asked questions about auto-darkening welding helmets from the web to answer. Even if it may seem like common knowledge to you, the answers to these questions may prove useful when you are trying to decide which helmet is best for you.
Cleaning a helmet requires proper steps to be taken for both the lens and the helmet itself. For the best results, you must refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
They are and are far better than using nothing at all. However, more expensive alternatives often have design features that make them far safer.
The most likely issue is a dead battery. Try replacing the battery or placing it in direct sunlight if it is a solar-powered model.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick goes to the DEKOPRO MC238 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet. While it may not be the absolute best choice for professionals, it serves hobbyists and entry-level welders well. The fast functioning and wide lens offer performance characteristics typically reserved for higher-priced models. It also features a design that offers extended coverage for protection. Again, we understand professionals would likely want to invest their money in something with a little more of an edge for extended use, but we still believe this to be a solid choice for most welders.
Final Thoughts
Our favorite model is the DEKOPRO MC238 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet. A more affordable option that still performs is the YESWELDER True Color Solar Powered Auto Darkening Welding Helmet. As for professionals, we find no better choice than the Lincoln 3350 Welding Helmet.
