miller welding helmet

7 Best Welding Helmet Reviews of 2024 | Is Auto Darkening Feature #1?

Welding helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment for beginner and experienced welders alike. Although older helmets were quite simple, modern options combine a comfortable fit with the latest technology. You can now choose from numerous extra features like auto-darkening, arc sensors, and general optical class. If you are in the market for the best welding helmet, take a look at these seven excellent options.

Editor's Rating: 4.9/5

Welding helmet by Miller
  • Four operating modes
  • Wide lens
  • Auto-darkening sensors

Editor's Rating: 4.5/5

Image of Jackson Safety Welding Helmet
  • Lightweight
  • Responsive arc sensors
  • Adjustable auto darkening

[Best Battery AND Solar Powered] Lincoln Electric VIKING

Editor's Rating: 4.8/5

Image of Lincoln Electric Welding Helmet
  • Battery and solar powered
  • Wide lens
  • Comfortable interior

What to Look For When Shopping For A Good Welding Helmet

There are several key characteristics which contribute to the quality of a great welding helmet. Check out the following features before making a decision.

Helmet Weight & Comfort

The ideal weight for a welding helmet is 20 oz. It should have a moderate amount of padding along the interior. The welding hood should not feel uncomfortable or like it is placing too much pressure on the neck.

Remember to not purchase a welding helmet which is too big or too small. You need to be able to weigh it without frequent adjustment since you have to handle your welding equipment.

Auto-Darkening Feature

Many contemporary welding hoods have an auto-darkening feature which reacts to the light of the welding arc. It darkens accordingly to protect the eyes from the increased brightness with requiring adjustment.

There are several different levels of auto-darkening. Most best auto darkening welding helmets need to darken to an adjustable shade that ranks between 10 and 13 on the lens darkness scale. Some best welding helmets will also have controls that allow you to adjust when the lens darkens based on personal preferences.

Viewing Area

A welding mask needs a wide enough viewing area to accommodate the wearer. Most best welding helmets have an area for the eyes which measures between 10 and 14 inches. You should make sure you have reasonable periphery vision in your mask of choice.

If you have a small or narrow face, then you will be able to use a welding helmet with a small viewing area.

Best Welding Helmet Reviews

Editor's Rating: 4.9/5

Welding helmet by Miller

The best welding helmet overall is the Miller Digital Infinity. This model is a personal favorite of mine because it has protected my vision more times than I can count. There are several key notable features, but one of my favorites is the broad viewing area, which is coincidentally the same as pi – 3.14 in.

I have excellent peripheral vision and the lens itself uses ClearLight Lens Technology, which means the wearer is able to see more colors than normal. 

This is great for someone like me who is red-green colorblind! There is also a short twilight period in the darkening feature so you don’t have to worry about unwanted stress on your eyes.

Some other notable features are that there are four sensors – so the Miller Digital Infinity welding helmet meets industry standards – and also four operating modes. The controls are clearly labeled and easy to use even when wearing gloves. The auto-darkening feature kicks in quickly at 10 but can be adjusted to not turn on until conditions are brighter.

This is a battery-powered, best auto darkening welding helmet which requires 2 C batteries. These are automatically included and are not an additional expense for the user. Full dimensions are around 12.2 x 10.7 x 10.4 inches.

One potential complaint is the size of this best welding helmet, which makes it heavier than I like. The average industry welding helmet is a little under 2 lbs., but this one weights 3. However, a larger welding helmet means more protection in dangerous situations.

As another note, the batteries do not last long and require replacement sooner than I prefer. However, they are long-lasting compared to other options and surprisingly easy to replace. This welding helmet has all the features you need!

Things We Liked

  • ClearLight Lens Technology
  • Four operating modes
  • Wide lens
  • Accurate auto-darkening sensors

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Heavier than average

Editor's Rating: 4.5/5

Image of Jackson Safety Welding Helmet

Not everyone can afford to spend more money on a welding helmet, but you still deserve quality. If you are looking for an affordable welding helmet that is still safe, reliable, and comfortable, then I recommend the Jackson Safety Insight Variable Auto Darkening helmet.

As the name of this model suggests, it is another auto darkening helmet with four sensors and easy to use controls. The auto darkening feature automatically kicks in at a light rating of 9, but there is the option to adjust this sensitivity to your personal preferences. I personally enjoy using the auto darkening at 11 since I find 9 and 10 are still tolerable.

If you are looking for an industry compliant helmet, you will be glad to know this Jackson welding helmet meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards and is CSA compliant. Since meeting this standard is considered optional in the United States, it is always satisfying to see a welding helmet which cares about the welder’s safety. Another great feature is that the welding helmet is compatible with the HLX100 and HSL 100 shells so you can make adjustments as you desire, and make it a right welding helmet for you.

When it comes to the lens, there is a large viewing area which measures 3.93" x 2.36". There are two separate operating modes: grind and weld. The weld mode is suitable for MIG welding, TIG welding, and flux core and stick welding. Again, if you are on a budget, having such a versatile auto dark welding helmet is an excellent choice since you don’t have to worry about switching between headgear.

The Jackson 370 ergonomic headgear is built with a three-position slider to adjust the distance between the eye and the lens. The crown strap adjustment is responsive and easy to use while the large ratcheting dial is easy to reach and manipulate with gloves on. Finally, the auto darkening welding helmet meets the industry average by weighing around 2 lbs.

So, what are the potential downsides of this safety equipment? The first and foremost is the lens itself is smaller than I prefer and does not offer great peripheral vision even if I can see out of the corners of my eyes. Second, the primary material of the welding helmet is flimsier than I like, but this does make the headgear super light and easier to adjust than most options. If you are small or not particularly muscular, the Jackson Safety Insight Variable Auto Darkening helmet is a great option.

Things We Liked

  • Lightweight
  • Meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards
  • Suitable for multiple welding types
  • Responsive arc sensors
  • Adjustable auto darkening

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Bigger  lens would be appreciated

Editor's Rating: 4.8/5

Image of Lincoln Electric Welding Helmet

Are you someone who doesn’t like to choose? Would you rather have both options and reap the benefits of flexibility and versatility? If this sounds like you, then you would be interested in the Lincoln Electric VIKING welding helmet, which manages to win prizes for being the best battery and solar powered option currently on the market.

This is not a joke. The Lincoln Electric VIKING utilizes a CR 2450 battery and a solar cell so you can choose whichever power source best suits your working style and preferences. 

You can switch between power systems if one runs low, and the battery is included with the welding helmet upon purchase. 2 CR5 batteries are required and included.

Now, for more about the quality of the welding helmet itself. It is worth mentioning the helmet meets a broad range of industry standards, including ANSI Z87.1, CSA Z94.3, and EN379. The outer material of the welding mask is thick, durable, and not flexible like more cheap welding helmets which seem to compromise on safety against cracks in the exterior shell.

The lens is auto-darkening and does so without an issue. This is because the 3350 Series, to which this welding helmet belongs, features the exclusive 4C lens technology that creates a crystal clear, true color view of the arc and puddle. Again, I enjoy the improved lens because of innate colorblindness which can be a hazard when working with the arc. The lens measures 12.5 square inches, making it larger than the majority of modern welding helmets.

There is one other major feature to brag about, and that is the optical clarity of this welding equipment. The Lincoln Electric VIKING is one of the best welding helmets because it has a 1/1/1/1 optical clarity rating. This means there is little to no distortion and blurring while you work.

How about comfort? If you find that most welding helmets are uncomfortable, then you will be happy to know the interior of the Lincoln Electric VIKING is more comfortable than the majority of hoods out there. This is because the interior uses the X6 Headgear quality design. The X6 Headgear contours to the operator’s head to evenly distribute weight across six key contact points. This improves balance, eliminates common helmet pressure points, and provides a personalized fit for maximum comfort.

Finally, there is one more feature to brag about: the 3-year manufacturer’s warranty. This warranty is automatically included upon purchase and includes basic wear and tear that might occur from welding. You can get a brand new welding helmet and don’t have to worry about buying another for at least three years – how could you lose?

If there is one major downside, it is the size of the helmet. Because the interior features extra padding and the lens is wider than average, the helmet has full dimensions of 12.6 x 10.6 x 10.4 inches and weighs 3 lbs. However, I think the size is a great feature even if it could be detrimental to those with smaller heads or weaker necks.

Things We Liked

  • Battery and solar powered
  • 3-year manufacturer’s warranty included
  • Wide lens
  • 1/1/1/1 optical clarity rating
  • Comfortable interior

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Heavier than usual

Editor's Rating: 4.7/5

Image of Optrel Crystal Welding Helmet

The Optrel Crystal 2.0 welding helmet checks off a lot of boxes. It is sleek, modern, and utilizes contemporary technology to create a comfortable experience for the wearer in even the most intense of welding situations.

It utilizes crystal lens technology with shade 2.0 light state which makes it easy to see your surroundings no matter how bright or dark they are. This technology functions in tandem with the auto-darkening feature, which can be full automated to adjust between shades ranging from 4-12. 

While the Optrel Crystal 2.0 does not darken as much as other options, the controls are some of the easiest to use and are clearly labeled for beginners.

Speaking of the darkening, the Optrel welding helmet has one of my favorite features of all time. This is the twilight feature, which slows the transition from dark to light to reduce eye strain and tension. I personally enjoyed this because my eyes often hurt when the welding helmet too quickly makes the transition from 13 to 3 in a short period of time.

Besides these basics, the helmet has two separate modes. You can switch quickly and easily between weld mode and shade 2.0 Grind mode using the external controls. You do not need to remove the welding helmet to grind. The interior also has an integrated particle auto darkening filter which is of the highest Safety Class (TH3).

This is a battery operated model. 2 CR2 batteries are required and included, and a warranty from the manufacturer is available and covers a year of basic wear and tear. The full product dimensions are 11 x 10.8 x 9.2 inches and the welding helmet weighs 1.7 lbs., making it lighter than normal, even the lightest helmet on our list.

One potential con is the Optrel Crystal 2.0 is not as affordable as other options despite lacking some safety features included in the other most durable helmets on this list. However, you get what you pay for and quality is one of the best characteristics of the Optrel Crystal 2.0. At the same time, the welding helmet does run small, making it great for welders with more narrow faces.

Things We Liked

  • Weld and grind modes
  • Twilight feature for sensitive eyes
  • Great auto darkening
  • Easy to use controls

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Expensive for tight budget

Editor's Rating: 4.7/5

Image of ESAB Sentinel A50 Welding Helmet

The ESAB SENTINEL A50 is one of the most popular welding helmets on the market for a reason. It features an ergonomic halo headgear design which allows it to sit comfortably around the skull.

The interior padding is placed in such a way that I didn’t experience the usual head and neck stress and pressure points, and the low profile design means I still have plenty of head clearance when the mask is up. There have been way too many times I accidentally bonked my head in bulkier welding helmets because they were simply too wieldy when not over the face.

When it comes to features, the ESAB SENTINEL A50 packs a wallop. The auto darkening lens is quick and responsive with a basic yellow tint to better protect against UV and IV radiation. The lens measures 3.93 x 2.36 in. and provides adequate peripheral vision to complete tasks.

The optical clarity is excellent with a full rating of 1/1/1/2 –5-13 ADF. When I was wearing the helmet, I experienced almost no distortion or wavering. This welding helmet has all the features you need.

The Grind button can be activated externally and is easy to reach. One of the main things I enjoyed about this welding helmet was it came with several clear lens covers for extra protection as well as a helmet bag for helmet storage. Lenses for magnification are also available.
The ESAB SENTINEL A50 is a battery powered and requires and includes 2 CR2450 batteries. These are easy to replace and last a reasonable amount of time. The batteries control four arc sensors which detect the light from the arc while you work. The auto darkening lens can switch from a rating of 3 or 4 up to a rating of 13. The controls to make adjustments are simple and easy to use.

When it comes to size, the A50 has full dimensions of 11.9 x 10.4 x 9.9 inches and weighs 4 lbs. It is heavier than expected which can be an issue for those with smaller heads or faces, but the increased size is great for those with a larger frame.

The only other potential problem I noticed was how easy the lens is to smudge from the inside. While you should be able to wipe it clean, the smudges always come back and can be annoying. On the plus side, the lens is so wide that I barely noticed them.

Things We Liked

  • Excellent auto darkening
  • Includes extra lenses
  • Great peripheral vision
  • Good overhead welding clearance

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Easy to leave fingerprints

Editor's Rating: 4.7/5

Image of Hobart 770890 welding helmet

The Hobart 770890 is one of the most affordable welding helmets that still includes a quality auto darkening feature and does not require the wearer to sacrifice quality on a budget.

This welding helmet is made from reinforced and durable polyamide nylon and includes 9.3 square inch viewing lens with excellent peripheral vision and rapid shade adjustment to suit intensive welding processes.

I think the viewing lens is the perfect size for someone like me who has a small face since I have adequate vision on all sides without having to worry about the helmet being too large for my frame. The darkening feature is adjustable from shades 3 to 12. The welding helmet is battery powered and includes 1 CR2 battery.

This is a professional grade helmet with four included sensors that are rapid at detection. There are two separate modes included: weld and grind. Once the Hobart 770890 is switched to grind, the feature of auto darkening is switched off so you don’t have to worry about losing vision.

Besides these basics, I found the auto darkening welding helmet surprisingly comfortable for the price. The inside has enough padding to reduce the strain on certain pressure points in the skull, and the mask was easy to move and adjust. I did struggle a little to move the back strap when wearing the helmet, but I eventually got used to it.

For some potential cons, the Hobart 770890 is an extremely lightweight helmet at 1.2 lbs. and has full dimensions of 11.8 x 14 x 12 inches. I appreciate the low weight, but it might be strange for wearers expecting something heavier. The exterior nylon is also more flexible than I like, but this could mean improved versatility for another.

Things We Liked

  • Lightweight
  • Responsive auto dark welding helmet
  • Two separate modes
  • Comfortable interior

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Flexible exterior

Editor's Rating: 4.3/5

Image of Antra True Color Welding Helmet

Finally, there is the Antra AH7-860-000. This auto darkening welding helmet is designed to offer superior protection while still being a great budget option.

The lens features a passive filter with a permanent shade of 13 to combat UV and IR. This is combined with a double-layered auto dimming LCD shutter, which provides a sufficient and accurate shade range within 4/5-9/9-13 for visible lights. The lens itself is 13.5 square inches, making it larger than average.

The Antra welding helmet is a comfortable helmet which features interior padding that alleviates strain on notable pressure points. The mask is long and seems to be of durable plastic. While the exterior is more flexible than I enjoy, it is versatile and lightweight without feeling flimsy. This helmet does meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard.

When it comes to performance, I found the helmet to be responsive and easy to use. Included are four premium arc sensors which are great at detecting light.

These automatically trigger the darkening feature and have a short twilight period which reduces eye stress and strain. Further included are several interference suppression technologies which minimize false triggering when in sunlight or underneath high-powered workshop lights. It can also completely eliminate sunlight interference.

When it comes to size, the full product dimensions of the Antra AH7-860-000 are 12 x 8 x 7 inches. While the listing said it would weigh 2 lbs., I discovered it actually only weighed 1. This is lighter than expected and can be potentially detrimental for the user.

My main complaint is with the battery life. This best welding helmet requires 2 lithium metal batteries which are included upon purchase. I hoped the helmet would be able to last, but it burns out after a couple of hours and requires constant battery replacement. On the plus, the helmet is still powerful and affordable.

Things We Liked

  • Affordable
  • Responsive arc sensors
  • Large lens
  • Rapidly switches between modes

Things We Didn't  Like

  • Shorter battery life than some models

Other Important Features To Look For in a Top-Rated Welding Helmet

Optical Class

The optical class of a helmet refers to vision clarity, or how easily you can see through the lens. Optimal clarity is classified as 1/1/1/1, but most helmets have not reached this standard. The first number is the optical class, which is how accurate or undistorted your vision is. You can find best welding helmets that have an optical class of 1, but you will need to sacrifice another form of clarity to achieve this ranking.

Arc Sensors

The arc sensors detect the electromagnetic frequency of the welding arc to eliminate interference problems. Some sensors are also capable of triggering the auto-darkening features of the mask.

The number of welding arc sensors varies based on the intensity of your desired work. A hobby helmet typically only has two high end welding helmets while an industry model requires four. Always check the number of sensors before purchasing a helmet.

Helmet Power Source

Most modern welding hoods require a power source to ensure proper function. Contemporary options might need to be powered with replaceable batteries or solar energy. Each one has its own pros and cons, including energy efficiency and the strength of the helmet’s sensors.

Sensitivity Control

The sensitivity controls are used to change at what point the auto-darkening features of the lens are kicked on. Welding helmets with these controls mean the wearer can adjust the features to best suit their work and not worry about being unable to see.

Lens Shade Options & Reaction Time

Best welding helmets possess multiple lens shade options. These are identified by a number. The average welder needs to wear a helmet with a number between 10 and 13 to prevent flash burn of the eyes. Some individuals might choose to go darker if they are working in intense situations. The reaction time, meanwhile refers to how quickly the lens will switch from its natural light state to the darkened shade after the welding process begins. Faster reaction times are preferable.

Welding Safety Standards

There are several basic safety standards all welding hoods need to meet in order to be used in the United States. The industry standard is ANSI Z87.1+ and covers a broad range of eye protection. All auto-darkening helmets need to provide full protection against both UV and IR even when not darkened. Otherwise the lens must be polarized and the helmet itself must not have any cracks as these leave the wearer at risk to injury.

FAQs

1. How do I choose a welding helmet?

Here are 5 crucial factors to take into account while selecting a welding helmet.

  • Do I require a lens with a single fixed shade or a variable shade?
  • How about changing the speed?
  • Solar power, batteries, or both?
  • How important is helmet weight?
  • Where does personal preference fit in?

2. Are Chicago welding helmets any good?

Yes, Chicago welding helmets are good. They has a very quick reaction time of 1/20,000 second, solar power, auto on/off, and external shade level adjustment.

3. How do you test an auto-darkening welding helmet?

You test an auto-darkening welding helmet in the sun. Simply put on your helmet and venture outside. For a few minutes, face the sensors toward the sun while standing in the sun. Now, concentrate on the lens to see if anything happens. A decent helmet will have reactive lenses that will darken.

4. Is there a difference in welding helmets?

There are several different types of welding helmets, and it's vital to know what's out there so you can get the job done right. Best welding helmets must meet ANSI protocols, requiring lenses on every best welding helmet to protect against UV light, infrared light, and heat.

5. What shade is best for MIG welding?

For MIG welding, for instance, welders often require lenses in the shade range of 10 to 13. Compared to a lens with a lower shade number, such shades tend to filter the majority of radiated light.