Are you looking for the best welding helmet?
Read on as we take a look at what a welding helmet is, what it does and why you need to buy one.
What is a welding helmet?
A welding helmet is a type of headgear that is worn in order to protect the eyes, face, and neck from harmful radiation produced during welding.
What does a welding helmet do?
A good welding helmet will protect your neck and face from the flashes and flames produced when welding.
When were welding helmets first introduced?
The first kinds of welding helmets were developed around 1937 and were made by covering a window with a filter so that the welders eyes are protected from direct flashes from welding.
The filters were made from polarized lenses with variable densities.
The downside to these lenses were they could not protect the eyes from UV radiation, or they weren’t dark enough and in other cases they were too dark.
Auto darkening helmets were introduced in 1981 and features LCD windows of the helmets.
These electrical LCD shutters were photosensitive and would provide the user with the adequate darkness dependent on the intensity of the light.
What Are The Various Categories of Welding Helmets
- Variable Shade v/s Fixed Shade
- Auto Darkening Lenses v/s Passive Darkening Lenses
- Non-Replaceable Batteries v/s Replaceable Batteries
- Solar powered v/s Battery Powered Helmets
- External knobs v/s Internal knobs
- Important notes you need to know
If you are looking for a welding helmet that is capable for both welding and cutting, this Spargo welding helmet with auto-darkening is a great choice.
This welding helmet is designed to protect your eyes and face from violent sparks, harmful radiation and spatter which are common to welding.
The auto-darkening feature quickly changes to a dark shade once an arc is struck and returns to a light state once welding stops.
This welding helmet has grinding function and comes with a set of protective lens.
You do not need to about batteries as this helmet is solar powered.
Features
- Suitable to all kinds of welding and cutting modes except laser welding.
- Auto-darkening Filter. Response time is less than 1/25000S
- Adjustable shade from DIN 9 – DIN 13.
- Grinding function.
- The UV/IR protection of shade level DIN15.
- Dark to clear delay time automatically changes from 0.2s to 0.5s according to the welding condition.
- Adjustable sensitivity from low to high.
- Easily Adjustable headband.
- Comply with EN safety regulations and ANSIZ87 1-2003 standards
Positives
- Great performance
- Fits perfectly and comfortable
- Good value for its price
Negatives
- It does not feature lateral adjustment
Product Details
- Filter Cartridge Size: 110x90x0.9mm
- Viewing Area: 92x42mm
- Light State Shade: DIN4
- Dark Variable Shade: From DIN9 to DIN13
- Switching Time: Light to Dark: 1 / 25000S; Dark to Light: 0.2 to 0.5 S
- Sensitivity control : low or high
- UV/IR protection: up to Shade DIN15
- Welding / grinding function : YES
- Power Supply: Solar cells, no battery change required
- Power on/ off: Fully Automatic
- Operating Temperature: – 10C to + 55C
- Storing Temperature: – 20C to + 70C
- Gross Weight: 460gr
Conclusion
A fantastic welding helmet for its price, the Spargo offers comfort ability as well as great functionality.
The LEXPON Welding Helmet is an automatic solar powered welding shield that provides you with the protection you need for most type of welding applications.
While your eyes are adequately protected by the shade, you are also able to see clearly what you are welding.
You do not necessarily have to flip up and down the visor in order to get a view of your welds.
This Lexpon welding helmet features an eye catching design and finish, and is super lightweight yet durable.
Features
- Double filter, avoid harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation produced by the arc, and welding light damage to the eyes.
- High performance solar cells and lithium battery. Battery replaceable. Low battery display.
- Grinding and welding mode can be chosen. Sensitivity and delay time can be adjustable.
- Super lightweight and impact resistant plastic (polyamide) existing helmet with innovative design and durable shell, suitable for all types of welding (MIG, MAG, TIG, Oxy) except laser welding.
Positives
- It looks fantastic
- Fits quite perfectly and comfortably
- Great value
- Provides adequate filter against harmful light from welding
Negatives
- It is lacking in rigidity
Product Details
- Scope: Welding, gas welding, soldering etc.
- Light states: DIN 4
- Dark states:DIN9-13 free adjustment(Outside Variable)
- Viewing area: 94 x 43 x 6mm
- Response time(bright to dark):<1/25,000 seconds
- 0.1-0.80s From Dark To Light Switching Time By Variable Adjustment Knob
- Sensitivity (welding based on current size):adjustable: low/high
- Battery: lithium battery (Replaceable )Battery+solar cells
- Auto Darkening Function (ADF) Self-Check
- UV/IR protection:16 levels
- Working temperature: -10°C ~ +60°C
- Storage temperature:-20°C ~ +70°C
Conclusion
If you are big in exciting looking tools then this welder helmet from Lexpon is for you.
It comes with all the features that you could want in a welder helmet.
If you are a hobbyist and you are looking for a budget welding helmet for light use, then the Expert Weld XWH7 is a good one to consider.
This basic helmet features a striking appearance with lightening patterns to add to the excitement of using it.
It is just not a nice looking welding helmet, but quite efficient for use in your garage or for welding In your DIY projects.
Like most modern welding helmets this Expert Weld helmet comes with all the features that are necessary.
Such features include auto-darkening, which is essential; grind function; solar power with a single replaceable Lithium ion battery.
It is also suitable for MMA, MIG/MAG, TIG welding as well as Plasma cutting.
Features
- Light State DIN 4 and Dark State variable DIN 9-13 + grinding mode.,
- Adjustable sensitivity (step less) and dark-to-light delay (step less).
- Solar powered with 1 replaceable lithium battery (low battery indicator).
- Ideal for MMA, MIG/MAG, TIG welding as well as Plasma cutting and welding.
Product Details
- Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
- Shades 9-13 + Grind Function
- Available in 3 graphics styles: Lightning, Eagle and Flame
- Viewing area: 52 x 100mm
- 2 arc sensors Light State: DIN 4 Dark State: DIN 9-13
- UV/IR protection: up to DIN 16
- Grinding mode Switching time (light-to-dark): 1/30,000s
- Dark-to-light delay: 0.1~1s
- Adjustable ratchet headband
- Adjustable sensitivity (step less
- Adjustable dark-to-light delay (step less)
- Solar powered with 1 replaceable lithium battery
- Low battery indicator for when the battery needs replacing
- Suitable for MMA, MIG/MAG, TIG welding as well as Plasma cutting and welding
- Weight: ~540g
- Warranty: 12 Months
Positives
- Very affordable
- Attractive finish
- Auto-darkening
Negatives
- The headband tends to slacken while in use
Conclusion
This is a nice looking welding helmet that does what it was designed to do.
It is very affordable and features a number of key features which makes it good value for its price.
Leopard offers a wide range of welding helmet as well as other welding accessories for better efficiency.
The LEO-WH86 is a feature packed welding helmet that expands the units of what you can do with it.
This solar powered helmet features the auto-darkening feature, grinding feature, and 9-13 shade.
The helmet is well constructed and built to offer the best fitting, which is an important aspect that ensures that the helmet is very comfortable.
It is battery operated and features a battery indicator that alerts you when the battery is low and needs to be charged.
Features
- Adjustable Headband: Press the button behind the headband, turn left to loosen, turn right to tighten
- Sweatband attached on the Headband: The sweatband is removable & washable
- Condition: Brand new in color box
- Fully Automatic Power On/Off.
- Stepless shift shade control DIN9 ~ 13
- Stepless adjustable Delay Time 0.2-0.8s By Switch Button
- Stepless adjustable Sensitivity(Low-High, By Switch Button)
- Replaceable battery: Open the battery cover from contrarotate,then take out battery.
- Low battery state test: Press the”TEST”button,the lens will be dark. The low battery indicator light will be bright if it is low-battery state
Positives
- It has plenty of functionality
- A nice looking helmet
- Efficient auto-darkening feature
- Great value
Negatives
- A few complaints about a faulty tension dial
Product Details
- Light States:DIN4
- Dark States:DIN9 ~ 13 (adjust the switch button beside the outer lens from 9-13)
- Viewing Area:44mm*99mm
- Switching Time:< 0.5ms(From Bright To Dark)
- Delay Time:0.2-0.8s (Short-Long, By Switch Button)
- Sensitivity:Stepless Adjustment By Switch Button, Low-High
- Power On/Off: Fully Automatic
- Shade Control: Outer Control, Stepless shift
- Arc Sensors:2 Arc Sensors
- Power Supply: Solar Cells & Lithium Batteries
- Lens Control:15 Minutes(When Not On Welding)
- UV/IR Protection:DIN16
- Grinding Function: YES(turn the button beside the outer lens to”Grind”,you can use this function.)
- Working Temperature: -10°C ~ +60°C
- The Penetration of UV: <0.0003 at 313mm-365mm
- The Penetration of IR: <0.027 at 780mm-1300mm;
- <0.085 at 130mm-2000mm;
- UV/IR protection level: Meets standards of ASIN/CE
Conclusion
A decent welding helmet with loads of features and functionality.
It looks amazing and is sold at a reasonable price.
This is another Tacklife welding helmet that is quite similar to the previous model.
Unlike the PAH04D, the PAH04D does not feature a control dial, but it does not compromise in efficiency.
The Tacklife PAH03D is very reliable and functional, allowing users to fit it perfectly, and is quite comfortable.
This welding mask has a large viewing area which is always a great feature that let’s you have a full view of what you are welding.
It is suitable for a variety of uses whether DIY or professional.
Features
- In order to create a more clear and open vision when doing welding and grinding jobs, this auto-darkening welding helmet features a super large viewing area of 100x73mm.
- The Middle auto-darkening filter with supreme optical index of 1/1/1/1, which can better protect your eyes from injuring by the arc and reduces visual fatigue.
- 4 highly sensitive Arc sensors scientifically distributed, which can sense the arc from all angles and make the filter automatically darken within 1 / 25,000s.
- Easily switch between welding mode and grinding mode and choose according to shade range. 3 for grinding jobs and 4-8/9-13 for welding jobs.
- Top impact testing class for helmet: EN175 B CE
- 2 kinds of Battery Power – One CR2450 lithium battery (replaceable) with leak-proof, liquid corrosion protective cover, can be used for 3-5 years;
- A widescreen solar cell works when greatly prolongs the cell’s service life.
- Begin to Charge when being exposed to welding arc or sunlight, Full range coverage.
Positives
- Large viewing area
- Great performance
- Supplied with spare lenses
- Solar powered
Negatives
- There are no colour varieties
Product Details
- Viewing Area: 100x73mm(3.94″x2.87″
- Optical Class: 1/1/1/1
- UR/IR Protection: DIN16
- Sensors: 4
- Light State: DIN 3
- Variable Shade: From DIN4-8 to DIN9-13
- Switching Time: 1/25,000s
- Delay Time: 0.2s-1.0s
- TIG Amperage Rating: DC≥3Amp;AC≥3Amp
- Power Supply: Solar cells+Lithium Battery(1xCR2450 Replaceable )
Conclusion
This is a high performing welding helmet with a large viewing area, which allows you to see what you are welding without straining your eyes or awkward viewing angles.
A great welding helmet for hobbyist and professionals alike, the Dirty Pro Tools Auto-darkening Welding Helmet is a decent headgear with great cushioning and 5 point adjustment, making it comfortable to wear.
This solar powered helmet is fully automatic and comes with grinding mode lights with 4 functions.
The Dirty Pro Tools welding helmet comes with an early accessible shade control with an adjustable range from 9 to 13.
This helmet is equipped with a time delay knob with a 01 to 1 second delay.
There is also a sensitivity adjuster which makes it a great helmet to purchase.
Positives
- Fantastic cushioning
- Adjustable fitting
- Sensitivity adjuster
- Grinding mode light
Negatives
- Available in only one colour
Dirty Pro Tools Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Features
- Cushioned and Adjustable Head strap
- Grinding Mode Light Shade 4 Function. Variable shade control adjuster. With a top of the range comfortable headgear that is cushioned and adjustable to 5 points
- Solar powered fully automatic power on/off with grinding mode light shade 4 function.
- 5 Lens Covers and Additional Sweatband. Accessible variable shade control from 9 to 13,
- Grinding Mode Light Shade 4 Function. Variable shade control adjuster. Suitable for ARC/MIG/TIG/ Stick welding. Equipped with a time delay knob.
Dirty Pro Tools Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Product Details
- Optical Class: 1 / 2 / 1 / 2
- Viewing Area: 92×42mm
- Cartridge Size: 10×90×9
- Arc Sensor: 2
- Light State: DIN 4
- Dark State: Variable shade, 9 ~13
- Shade Control: External, Variable
- Power On/Off: Fully Automatic
- Sensitivity Control: Low – High, by infinitely dial knob
- UV/IR Protection: DIN 16
- Power Supply: Solar cells.re- changeable battery No battery change required
- Switching Time: 1/25000S,from Light to Dark
- Dark to Light: 0.1-1.0S by infinitely dial knob
- Low Amperage TIG – ?10amps(DC),?10amps(AC),
- Grinding Function: YES
- Operating Temp: -5?~+55? *C
- Storing Temp: -20?~+70?
- Weight: 490g
Dirty Pro Tools Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Conclusion
If you are looking for a welding helmet that comes with a good number of features and is reasonably priced or budget friendly, this Dirty Pro Tolls helmet is a good one to consider.
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Antra is one of the popular brands in the helmet manufacturing sector and they have produced a range of welding helmets over the years.
The Antra AH6-260 is an addition to their range of welding helmets with auto-darkening feature.
This AH6-260 Series welding helmet features a smart chip controlled 4 sensor auto darkening lens, which responds extremely fast to electric arc from a variety of welding applications including MIG, TIG, MMA, and plasma.
This welding helmet is lightweight and versatile, allowing you to use it on grinding, welding and cutting applications.
Antra AH6-260 Series Welding Helmet Features
- Fully automatic power ON/OFF.
- Knob to adjust sensitivity and delay setting.
- UV/IR Protection: Permanent Shade DIN16.
- Hard hat adapter (Sold separately).
- Battery indicator and testing.
- Power off delay 10 minutes, the filter keeps alive for 10 minutes in dark environment before it goes to sleep.
Positives
- Extremely responsive auto darkening
- It is lightweight and comfortable
- Control knob for adjusting delay and sensitivity
Negatives
- The glass is prone to scratches
Antra AH6-260 Series Welding Helmet Product Details
- Viewing Area: 98mm x 44mm / 3.86″ x1.73″
- Cartridge Size: 110mm x 90mm x 9mm / 4.33″ x 3.54″ x 0.35″
- Optical Class: 1/2/1/2
- Reaction Time: 0.00004(1/25,000) Seconds
- Dark to Light: 0.1-1 Seconds
- Light State: Shade DIN 4
- Dark State: Shade DIN 5-9/9-13
- DC TIG Amperage Rating: >2 Amps
- Battery Type: Solar Cell + 2X CR2032 (Replaceable)
- Helmet Material: High Impact Polyamide Nylon
- Operating Temperature: -10°C- 55°C (14°F-131°F)
- Storage Temperature: -10°C- 55°C (14°F-131°F)
- Meet Standards: ANSI Z87.1 / EN379 CE / CSA Z94.3
Antra AH6-260 Series Welding Helmet Conclusion
We like everything about this welding helmet from Antra right from performance to the general quality of this product.
It is highly recommended.
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If you are looking for a welding helmet with features that supports all-round use, then you need not look any much further.
The Tacklife Auto-darkening welding helmet is a great choice.
This welding helmet comes with a number of features that you can find in most modern welding helmets such as auto-darkening feature, a solid and fun looking design, impressive vision with full shade range, and compatibility with cheater lenses, magnifying lenses and so on.
It also features an adjustable ergonomical shade and sensitivity knob which is easy and comfortable to use.
Tacklife PAH04D Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Features
- Made from high impact polyamide nylon as, lightweight and protective.
- Contoured frame edges to deflect particles and splashes.
- Comfortable Headband with Balanced Design- Adjustable headband provides a comfortable no-slip fit.
- The auto Darkening cartridges undergo evaluation in four important categories, fully automatic power and 4 arc sensors combine to auto-darkenin 1/25,000 seconds.
- 1/1/1/1 top optical clarity according to European standard EN 379 1/1/1/1, ensuring clear and secure welding process.
- UV/IR protection up to DIN 16 all the time, protecting your eyes from damage by any intensive lights.
- Full shade range 4/4-8/9-13, ideal for welding, grinding, cutting and any other applications.
- Accommodates cheater lens, magnifying lens, headgear compatible design( buy additionally), meet different jobsite applications needs of different people.
Positives
- Auto-darkening feature
- Full shade range
- It feels robust and well made, but lightweight
- Great value
Negatives
- It won’t stay open when lifted
Tacklife PAH04D Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Product Details
- Viewing Area: 98mm x 43mm
- Cartridge Size: 110mm x 90mm x 9mm
- Optical Class: 1/1/1/1
- Reaction Time: 0.00004(1/25,000) Seconds
- Dark to Light: 0.3~0.9 Seconds
- Light State: Shade DIN 4
- UV/IR Protection: DIN16
- Dark State: Shade DIN from 4-8 to 9-13
- DC TIG Amperage Rating: >3 Amps
- Battery Type: Solar Cell + 1X CR2450 installed (Replaceable)
- Helmet Material: High Impact Polyamide Nylon
- Operating Temperature: -5°C ~ +55°C
Tacklife PAH04D Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Conclusion
This is generally a great welding helmet that does what it was designed to do.
The only downside is that the lid won’t stay up when it us lifted.
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This Silverline adjustable welders helmet is simple helmet with a traditional design.
This helmet does not come with all the added features that most of the other helmets on this list have, but it is very functional and reliable.
It is a wraparound head shield that offers neck and face protection against sparks.
The flip-up lens offers great vision and is suitable in restricted spaces.
It feels quite robust but lightweight, allowing you to move freely without feeling there is a heavy box on head.
It is durable and promises a high performance.
Silverline 868520 Welders Helmet Features
- Suitable for MIG, TIG & Arc (MMA/GMAW) electric welding
- Durable, wraparound head shield for face & neck protection
- Flip-up lens for improved vision
- Face shield certified to EN175 / green infrared lens (DIN 11) certified to EN169
- Spatter shield certified to EN166
Positives
- Simple design
- High performing
- Easy to use
- Offers full protection
- Offers good vision
Negatives
- Does not have a variety of features
Silverline 868520 Welders Helmet Product Details
- Brand Name: Silverline
- Colour Multi
- Item Weight: 380.0 grams
- Model Number: 868520
- Number of Items: 1
- Part Number: 868520
- Size: N/A
- UPC: 002147483647
Silverline 868520 Welders Helmet Conclusion
If you are looking for a back up or a budget welding helmet, you should consider this Silverline wraparound head shield.
It does not come with features such as auto-darkening and a range of shades, but it is quite reliable.
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Silverline is a relatively popular manufacturer of welding equipment including helmets, which possess a high quality and are reasonably priced or affordable.
The Silverline 934295 model is a helmet built for both professional welders and hobbyists.
It is not as attractive as some of the other welding helmets we have reviewed, therefore, if you are less concerned about appearance and more concerned about performance, then is welder helmet makes a good choice.
This welding helmet is suitable for a variety of applications including MIG, TIG, Arc (MMA/GMAW) electric welding.
It is solar powered, generating just enough to carry out simple welding.
It sits comfortably on your head and has a 4 way adjustable padded headband.
Silverline 934295 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Features
- Suitable for MIG, TIG and Arc (MMA/GMAW) electric welding
- Solar-powered with comfortable 4-way adjustable padded headband for better fit.
- Dual light sensors switch from light to dark in 1/5,000 second
- DIN 11 (dark) / DIN 16 UV and IR protection
- Certified to EN379 and 175.
Positives
- Affordable
- High performing
- Padded headband for Comfortable fit
Negatives
- It is not as durable as advertised
Silverline 934295 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Product Details
- Finish Smooth
- Product Weight 0.45kg
- Material – Secondary Construction Polypropylene
- Cartridge/Refill Size 110 x 90 x 9mm
- Operation Temperature -5°C~+55°C
- Storage Temperature -20°C~+70°C
Silverline 934295 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Conclusion
A simple looking welder helmet with most of the features that you can find o most models.
Does the job well and customers are satisfied with it.
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Another great welding helmet is the KKmoon Solar Energy Welding Helmet with auto darkening.
There are more similarities rather than differences among most of the welding helmets in this review, with slight differences that eventually makes it slot easier to choose your ideal product.
This welding helmet is suitable for professional welding and it provides you comprehensive protection against common hazards associated with welding.
Asides from its features, this helmet comes in a striking finish that features a flaming skull design, giving it an attractive and fashionable look.
It is powered by solar and lithium batteries.
Kkmoon Solar Energy Welding Helmet Features
- Full range UV/IR protection up to shade DIN 15 all time,Darkness Variable shade control (DIN) from 9-13, Clear shade 4.
- Auto-Darkening welding Helmets are designed to protect the eyes and faces from spark, spatter, and harmful radiation under normal welding conditions.
- Can be used for TIG, MIG, MAG, Adjustable sensitivity and delay time, grinding and welding mode can be chosen.
- Made of high quality fire retardant material with high intensity and light weight, durable and safe to use
- Large view window with seeing the welding conditions clearly when welding the goods, convenient to use.
Positives
- Attractive and exciting appearance
- Ultimate protection
- High performance
- Great value
Negatives
- It does not feel as durable as advertised
Kkmoon Solar Energy Welding Helmet Product Details
- Sight Glass Size: 93 x 43 x 6mm
- Filter Frame Size: 110 x 90mm
- Active Viewing Area: 93 x 43mm
- Solar Battery Area: 90 x 20mm
- Helmet Size: 230 x 300 x 200mm / 9.06 x 11.81 x 7.87in
- Helmet Weight: 477g / 16.84oz
- Package Size: 30.5 x 23.5 x 23cm / 12.01 x 9.25 x 9.06in
- Package Weight: 750g / 26.44oz
Kkmoon Solar Energy Welding Helmet Conclusion
A nice looking welding helmet that does the job.
It does a great job with protecting your eyes and give g a good level of comfort and mobility.
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If you are a professional welder a metal craftsman and you are looking for the ideal welding helmet, the Draper 12034 is one to consider.
This solar powered helmet comes with great features that make fit for purpose as well as keeping your eyes safe while welding.
The Draper 12034 comes with an automatic shading facility or auto-darkening that kicks into action the moment the weld is struck.
It also comes with sensitivity control that is adjustable using the knob on the helmet.
The shading can be adjusted from 9-13.
Draper 12034 Auto Varioshade Welding Helmet Features
- Professional users helmet with solar powered automatic shading facilities when weld is struck
- It features a sensitivity control
- Adjustable shading from 9 -13EW
- Adjustable headband.
Positives
- Adjustable headband
- Great fit
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Great value
Negatives
- It does possess a quality as high as most welding helmets on the list
Draper 12034 Auto Varioshade Welding Helmet Product Details
- Item Weight: 721 g
- Package Dimensions: 29 x 28.4 x 24.8 cm
- Shading: 9-13
- Item model number: XWH5
- Size: N/A
- Colour: Flame2
- Material: Plastic
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Batteries included?: Yes
- Solar powered: yes
Draper 12034 Auto Varioshade Welding Helmet Conclusion
When it comes down to what it was designed to do, the Draper 12034 is high performing welding helmet.
It is lightweight and easy to use, however, it does feel like its of a lesser quality that most in this review.
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