Budget and economy of welding helmet usually worry a welder albeit a demand for a quality helmet. Suppose a welding helmet can provide good features within an economical range. In that case, it can be rightly claimed the best economic welding helmet.
The best budget welding helmets list is meticulously separated from piles of welding helmets currently available from various manufacturers and sellers on the internet. So this rise questions what criterion was used for selecting the best inexpensive welding helmet besides economic factor.
Well! Review the good features of listed helmets as under will provide sufficient satisfaction that painstaking aggregated. Care has been taken to search an excellent economic welding helmet with best features that aid welders’ needs.
Some of the features which were carefully observed before enlisting these helmets in this series are as under:
- Designs and colour patterns on the exteriors
- The material used for making the helmet
- Number of sensors
- Auto-darkening filters
- Lens reaction time
- Modes of operations
- Optical class
- Temperature adaptability
- Power sourcing
And many more exciting features that will really make reviewers happy.
12 Best Budget Welding Masks
Following ten helmets have been selected as the best inexpensive welding helmets.
Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
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Antra AH6-260-6218 | View area: 3.86 x 1.73 inches Sensors: 4 Rendundant sensors Optical class: 1/1/1/2 Reaction time: 0.00004s |
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Tooliom 3.97 x 3.7 | Weight: 2.25 Pound Sensors: 4 Optical class: 1/1/1/1 Shades: 5-9/9-13 Dimensions: 3.97 x 3.7 Inches |
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Lincoln Electric Viking, K 3175-4 | Weight: 1.32 pound View area: 3.83 x 2.44 inches Sensors: 4 Reaction time: 1/25000s |
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Deko Pro 980E (True Color) | Weight: 1.85 Pounds View area: 3.9 × 3.2 Inches Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Reaction time: 1/25000s |
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Antra Welding Helmet DP9-1X | Weight: 1.1 pound View area: 3.86 x 3.23 inches Optical Class: 1/1/1/1 Sensors: 4 Shades : 3-5/9-13 |
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Antra AH7-860-0000 | Weight: 1.1 pound View area: 3.86 x 3.5 inches Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Shades : 4-9/9-13 |
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TACKLELIFE -PAH03D | Weight: 1.15 Pound View area: 3.94 x 2.97 inches Reaction time: 1/20000s Optical Class: 1/1/1/1 Sensors: 4 Shades : 4-9/9-13 |
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Monster & Master MM-WH-002 | Weight: 1.83 pound View area: 3.86 x 2.71 inches Reaction time: 1/10000s Sensors: 4 Shades : 5-9 /9-13 |
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Tanox ADF 269-F | Weight: 2 Pound View area: 3.87 x 1.76 inches Reaction time: 1/25000s Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Shades : 4/5-9/9-13 |
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Tekware welder mask | Weight: 1.10 Pound View area: 4.33 x 3.54 inches Reaction time: 1/10000s Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Shades : 4/5-9/9-13 |
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Yeswelder LYG L500A | Weight: 1.94 pound View area: 3.64 x 1.67 inch Reaction time: 1/10000s Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Shades : 4/9-13 |
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Jackson Safety 46129 | Weight: 2.2 pound View area: 3.94 x 2.36 inches Reaction time: 1/10000s Optical Class: 1/1/1/2 Sensors: 4 Shades : 9-13 |
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1. Antra AH6-260-6218 – Top Rated
Antra AH6-260 with highest positive reviews at amazon with multi-grade applications has made it one of the dearest auto-darkening low budget helmets. The durability, multi-grade and heavy-duty applications are taglines of this fine piece of art.
First of all, an anterior is catchy and keeps the run with the growing demand for quality and economy. It provides both to customers. There are five essential attributes of this fine helmet
- Safety and protection: which are wide-ranged, facilitated through variable shades lens 4-13. It is also providing full-face coverage. 4 redundant sensors with 2 passive UV/IR sensors. Lens suppresses blue light effectively. It is giving crystal explicit imagery with variable shade range from 4-9/9-13.
- Comfort and convenience have been provided through lightweight, 1 Pound.
- Hard hat/cheater lens compatible: As Magnifying Lens/cheater lens, MSA V Guard Hard hat connector, Fiber Metal hard hat connector.
- Head Gear Mechanism is very flexible: lightweight, flexible adjustments and ratchet gear with fastening spring that eases multiple weld operations. The helmet can be held at up position due to retaining ability of the helmet.
- Interface management: ON/Off, ambient light can be detected really fast, and the lens is auto turned off within 15 minutes.
- Grinding and welding are controlled by an external switch. Lens will not respond when in grind mode.
These fine points make it the best budget welding helmet that can relieve your nerves when working either as a professional or student. Optical class is a bit weak, 1/1/1/2, but it would not be a wrong choice at such a budget. Overall, all these features are making it the best economic welding helmet.
Specifications:
- Models: 5 Color make-up: Black Matte, Bloody Skull, Grey Ghost, Carbon Fiber, Eagle Skull
- Material: High Impact Polyamide Nylon
- Weight: 1 Pound
- View area: 3.86 x 1.73 inches
- Sensors: 4 Rendundant sensors
- Lens: 2 UV/IR sensitive with ADR filters.
- Optical class: 1/1/1/2
- Dark to light: 0.1 -1 s
- Reaction time: 0.00004s
- Light shade: Shade DIN 4
- Dark Shade: 5-9/9-13
- TIG amperage: > 2 amps
- Battery type: Solar Cell + 2X CR2032 [replaceable]
- Operating Temp: -10ºc- (-55ºc)
- Meet Standards: ANSI Z87.1/EN379 CE/ CSA Z 94.3
- Use: Heavy Duty
- Welding Operations: TIG, MAG/MMA, Plasma, grinding
- Users: Professionals, Students, DIYers, Occassional Welders
Pros
Cons
2. Tooliom 3.97 x 3.7 – Best Under $50
Tooliom TL-EF 10494 is five-star inexpensive welding helmet which can make it a better choice for welding operations. Tooliom, a reliable manufacturer, has launched five other models in this series. Tooliom TL-EF 10494, with its features, is surpassing rest. The dazzling black made from plastic provides its solid grip to your head with its bandana. Thus, It is making helmet ultra-lightweight and added comfort through adjustable head suspension.
Besides these, it also has an external adjustable external knob.
It has an extra-large view, 14.689 SQI coupled with 4 arc sensors. Optics are premium quality carrying true colour filters with UHD/HQ and optical clarity 1/1/1/1. Lens reaction time is very fast 0.00003s which makes it faster than Antra AH6-260. Lens are variable ranging 5-9/9-13 which provides more instantaneous color change which arc flashes.
Further, the power source is through the battery and solar operations, making it really darling. Low power indication is possible along with battery changing facility. The plastic material some times create a problem though electronics are delicate enough. But these are manageable if used with care.
Overall it is good economic welding helmet for multiple operations and multi-users. For more details you can also check best auto darkening welding helmets
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Material: Polycarbonate Plastic
- Weight: 2.25 Pound
- Dimensions: 3.97 x 3.7 Inches
- Sensors: 4
- ADF Filter: Present
- Optical Class: 1/1/1/1
- UV/IR Protection: DIN 16
- Shades: 5-9/9-13
- Auto darkening: Yes
- Certification: ANSI Z87.1 APPROVED
- Power source: Battery and solar operated.
- Operations: MIG/MMA, TIG, plasma, welding, Grinding
- Users: Professionals, Welding School students
Pros
Cons
3. Lincoln Electric Viking, K 3175-4 – Best Value
Lincoln Viking 3175 is a good offer with three alternatives, Red blue, All American and Tail Camo, for various customers. It is a bit expensive but carries features which are quite astonishing. Viking 3175, all American has a price advantage over other models in this series. Let’s look at the features of this model:Lincoln K 3175 has premium optics with 4C lens technology, giving a true colour and close to natural imagery to the welders. It is also reducing straining of eyes.
The optical clarity is perfect, 1/1/1/1, which will avoid consistent brightness, lens blurring and angle performance. The care has been painstakingly taken about the comfort of the user. The X6 headgear can efficiently distribute weight at six points which can reduce strain on the welder’s neck.
Secondly, the view area is also significant, 9.3 SQI which gives a satisfactory view field and increases productivity and added safety.
Third, it is also giving elasticity in the performance between weld and grind mode. This has been facilitated through external grind button where you can easily and quickly switch between these two modes without removing Helmet or gloves.
The 4th generation Helmet is proving the same attributes in these model releases. The shade range is variable from 5-13, making it feasible for almost all types of weldings. With this switch, time is fast, 1/25000s. This is made possible through 4 arc sensors which really makes the job easier. It is good TIG amperage coverage: 2 Amps. It also has cheater lens compatibility. It has both batteries powering and solar powering, which is a bit more pricy, making a good option for professionals.
Related Guide: Best Expensive Welding Helmets
Specifications:
- Color: Black, Red, all American, Tail camo
- Material: Plastic
- Weight: 1.32 pound
- View area: 3.83 x 2.44 inches
- Number of arc sensors: 4
- Reaction time: 1/25000s
- Shades: 5-13
- TIG amperage: 2 Amps
- Optical class:1/1/1/1
- Power: Battery and solar powered
- Standards: ANSI Z87.1, CSA Z 94.3, EN 379
- Use: Professionals
Operations: TIG, MIG/MMA. Plasma, weld and grind.
Pros
Cons
4. Deko Pro 980E (True Color) – Best for Multiple Operations
If you are looking for an excellent and economical helmet, then MZ980E is the best option for you. DekPro with three models in this range provides a reliable TIG welding partner to you if you have to work for a longer duration. DNS 980E offers intense attention for safety and protection with its permanent passive lens with wider ranger variable shades with auto-dimming LCS shutters. So all your vision is kept as maximum safety and comfort level. DNS 980E provides complete neck protection through its full coverage.
Second, DNS 980E provides comfort in view through efficient manipulation of incoming light rays. It is also equipped with LED digital display which facilitates adjustment of shade, sensitivity and delay according to different environments with rapid switching from dark to light.
Further, DNS980E uses interference suppression technologies. Thus it is providing decreased sensitivity to light without effect on response to the welding arc. Indeed, it is providing more effective eye protection as compared to some of the model given above. With this MZ 980E is added with varying shades of 4-9/9-13. Filter illumination is DIN4 with auto-darkening activating within 0.1-1.0 s.
In addition to this, DNS980E is designed for use in multiple processes like plasma cutting, grinding, cutting, DC & AC TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA/Stick Welding and many more.
Specific problems have been detected while using DNS980E such as abrupt fluctuations in shades while welding processes for longer durations.
Specifications:
- Color: Blue
- Material: plastic
- Weight: 1.85 Pounds
- Viewing area: 3.9 × 3.2 Inches
- Optical Class: 1/1/1/2
- Light States: DIN4
- Shades: Variable 5-8/9-13
- Response time : 1/25000s
- UV Protection: DIN 16
- Sensors: adjustable
- Response time: 0.1-1.0s
- Battery Timing: > 5000 hrs.
- Power: solar and battery operated.
- Operations: plasma cutting, grinding, DC/AC TIG, MIG,MAG, MMA, Stick weld
- Use: heavy infrastructure
Pros
Cons
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5. Antra Welding Helmet DP9-1X – With 3 mode
Don’t consider it as a promotion for Antra as three models have been selected as the best budget welding helmet in a row. It is only because they provide the most economical welding helmets with all the features you are looking after.DP9-1X is released in three models which are fascinating. Let’s look at the features of the helmet.
First, comfort level:They are designed for industrial purposes to meet ANSI Z87.1 standards with Shade 14 to UV/IR radiations. Plastic made helmet is giving safety and maximum comfort with convenience.
The variable shade range is just impressive 3/5-9/9-13 to visible light which makes weld puddle crystal clear. The view area is larger 12.5 SQI.
The helmet has 4 redundant sensors which are highly responsive towards detecting arc. This is reinforced by super fast switching time and interference suppression technology.
The shades are amazingly variable 3-5-9/9-13, which makes it much better than Antra 260 and Toolium. Shades can be memorized. They can be used in tight spaces.
It is thus a great welding helmet that can be used with reliability in multiple operations.
Specifications:
- Model: Antra DP9-1X
- Colors: Black Matte, Carbon Fiber, Fancy Skull
- Weight: 1.1 pound
- Material: Plastic
- Area: 3.86 x 3.23 inches
- Optical class: 1/1/1/1
- Shades : 3-5/9-13
- Sensors: 4
- TIG amperage: 2 amp
- Power: battery and solar operated
- Operations: DC TIG, AC TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA /Stick, weld and grinding
- Users: Professionals and students
Pros
Cons
6. Antra AH7-860-0000 – Best Auto Darkening
Antra AH7-860-000 has been selected because of multiple features within medium range price. Two models have been launched by Antra in this category of the best budget welding helmet.First comes to safety and protection associated with a good quality economic helmet. Plastic made material provides complete protection and neck region. This is coupled with a filter of permanent shade range of 13 to UV/IR rays emitting from weld arc. This also has two-layered auto-dimming LCD shuttering facility with a wide range of shade range viz. 4-9/9-13. This is a primary requirement of ANSI Z87.1.
There are 4 premium redundant sensors which have really fast switching time and accurate auto shading. The lens has a vast view area of 13.5 SQI which in the end gives you much better weld joints. This beautiful helmet is lightweight, which makes it comfortable while using it. It can also be light spaces.
Finally, it has optical clarity of 1/1/1/2 and better TIG amperage of 2 amps. It is better because it almost costs nothing when compared to its multiple operations capacities.
Specifications:
- Model: AH7-860-0000
- Color: Black Matte
- Material: plastic
- View area: 3.86 x 3.5 inches
- Optical clarity: 1/1/1/2
- Shades range: 4-9/9-13
- Sensors: 4
- Auto darkening: yes
- Reaction time: not mentioned
- TIG Amperage: 2 amps
- Power: Battery and Solar Power Operated
- Operations: DC TIG, AC TIG, MIG/MAG, MMA/Stick, Weld, Grind
- Users: Professionals, Welding school students
Pros
Cons
7. TACKLELIFE 3.94 x 2.87, -PAH03D – Lightweight
TACKLIFE is another good quality economic helmet whose features are attractive.Plastic made helmet is highly qualified with temperature resistant quality and is also super lightweight., 1.15 pound, which is really strained reducer while working.
4 sensors are present, lens quality is 1/1/1/1, which makes a good choice as the price is good with better features. View area is 3.94 x 2.97, and four sensors makes reaction time faster 1/20000s.Tacklelife is both power and battery operated it.
Specifications:
- Model: TACKLELIFE
- Material: plastic
- COLOR: Black
- Weight: 1.15 Pound
- Sensors: 4
- Reaction time: 1/20000s
- Optical class:1/1/1/1
- View area: 3.94 x 2.97 inches
- TIG amperage: not mentioned
- Power: battery and solar
- Welding: DC IG, AC TIG, MMA/Stick, MIG/MAG, Welding and Grinding
- Use: Professionals and DIY Hobbyist
Pros
Cons
8. Monster & Master MM-WH-002 – Best Under $100
Monster & Master is not a well-known brand compared to Lincoln, Antra or Yes welder. Still, they are sufficiently good at manufacturing good quality economic welding helmets that can serve your needs. This relatively more minor market leader has the advantage that they provide economical prices with eyes protection, first priority. The lens is fast-acting with milli of seconds with liquid crystal technology, and also the lens is specially coated. Second MM-WH-002 with its modern outlook and comfortability is an outstanding catch for the user. It makes your presentation stylish.
Internally it is also providing better protection with its comfortable production. In the small group of welder material design, some times create problems. Another notable feature is that it can be used with googles which makes it useful in aged users. Reaction time is faster, 1/20000s to deal with dangerous UV/IR rays emitting from the weld.
Some times lighting might cause interference which has been appropriately disabled by interference suppression technology.
It has been designed for use in multiple industries like transport, beverages, military, metal production and fabrications, repair and operations with multipurpose design. In the last price, advantages are also making it a good economical choice for both welders who can be professionals as well as student or DIY hobbyists.
Specifications:
- Color: Black
- Material: plastic
- Weight: 1.83 pound
- View area: 3.86 x 2.71 inches
- Sensors: 4
- DARK SHADE: 5-9 /9-13
- Optical class: not mentioned
- Light shade: DIN4
- UV/IR Protection: DIN16
- Reaction time: 1/10000s
- Power: solar powered
- Battery indicator: present
- Operations : TIG,MIG,MMA
- Use: military maintenance, operations and repair
Pros
Cons
9. Tanox ADF 269-F – Cheap Solar Powered
Tanox ADF 260 SPF with as much low price as less than 100 bucks is unbelievable. So many qualities with such meagre price are astonishing. Tanox ADF 260-ADF is a bit heavy compared to other models but carries good features within its framework.
First, a helmet is made from high-quality plastic which can be used at high temperature. Just like MM-WH 001, it is also focusing on eye protection. It provides a more extensive view area and optical clarity 1/1/1/2, which is a bit weaker. But this weakness is masked by faster reaction time 1/25000s. View area is smaller, a bit disappointing 6.67 SQI.
Second: 4 premium sensors are adjusted into the framework and adjustable know, which provides shade change within 0.1-0.5s. The ADF reinforces this attempt to protect the eyes. With these shades are variable 4/5-9 9-13, which will make you happy.
It can be used for multiple operations like TIG, MIG, MMA.
Specifications:
- Model: TANOX ADF 269SPF
- Weight: 2 Pound
- Color: Grey Black
- Material: Plastic
- View area: 3.87 x 1.76 inches
- Sensors: 4
- Reaction time: 1/25000s
- Optical class: 1/1/1/2
- Shades: variable : 4/5-9/9-13
- ADF : Yes
- Battery: power and solar operated
- UV/IR Protection: DIN16
- Tig amperage: >5 amperage
- Weld operations: TIG, MAG/MMA, Weld and Grind
- Use: Professional
Pros
Cons
10. Tekware welder mask– Best Budget
Tekware WH-009 is selected as the best low priced helmet because it is the first welding mask with a welder mask facility. Let’s see its attributes. The best part of the helmet is its unique hemispherical enclosure which can protect from all sides with an extra-large viewing area of 12.8SQI. Better double-layered liquid crystal display with its true colour technology can provide adequate weld protection for more than 8 hours. The optical clarity is better, 1/1/1/2 with ADF filter that can switch within 1/10000s and safety is guaranteed even if an electrical failure occurs.
This is a reasonable claim which is also caring. Variable shades are used which ranges according to ANSI 87.1 specifications. This safety is increased by 4 robust sensors which react faster to an electric arc.
Helmet just like other models in this list is environment friendly working on solar and battery which can be beneficial. Conclusively, the list launched under economic tag is more extensive, ranging from as low to high—so better option to choose a financial and a helmet that suits according to your budget.
Specifications:
- Model: Tekware WH-009
- Material: Plastic
- Color: Black
- Weight: 1.10 Pound
- View area: 4.33 x 3.54 inches
- No of sensors: 4
- Optical clarity: 1/1/1/2
- ADF filter: PRESENT
- SWITCH TIME: 0.1-0.8S
- Reaction time: 1/10000s
- Shades : 4-9/9-13
- Uv/IR: protection DIN16
- Welding operations: TIG,MMA/MAG, plasma grind and welding
- USERS: Professionals and new comers
Pros
Cons
11. Yeswelder LYG L500A – Cheap Welding Hood
Yeswelder LYG L500A has same other alternative L500A-A which has a slightly different colour, but both models are the same price. Some of the features make your darling. First of all, LYG L500A is providing superior comfort with pivot styled headgear. Second stylish black colour shows resilience towards scratch and larger view area. It also carries a magnifying lens compatible design. Dual sensors are lesser than expected, 2 Nos with better clarity with its optical class 1/1/1/2. Third, more secondary sensors’ reaction time is more excellent than 1/10000s with varying shades lens 9-13 and auto-darkening.
Finally with such features like true colour technology, multiple operational options, better optical class, and faster reaction time and a reasonable price makes it an excellent economic welding helmet..
Specifications:
- Model: Yes welder LYG L500A
- Material: Plastic
- Weight; 1.94 pound
- View area: 3.64 x 1.67 inch
- No of sensors: 2
- Optical class: 1/1/1/2
- Shade range: 4/9-13
- Response time: 1/10000s
- Power: battery and solar
- Users: Professionals and New comers
- Operations: TIG, MIG, MMA , Plasma, weld and grind
Pros
Cons
12: Jackson Safety 46129 – Overall Good Mask
Jackson Safety Ultra-weight insight HSL-100 has easy to use digital controls and more extensive unobstructed viewing feature. It is not much equipped but is digital, which can make a better low-budget welding helmet. They are featured for use at intimate spaces and variable lighting environment. It is not much massy, 2.2 pounds. Nylon made helmet provides 3.94 x 2.36 inches with an unobstructed view for a user, reducing work environment related injuries.
The ADF filter protects eyes against harmful UV/IR radiations emitting from the welding arc. .
Jackson safety has varying shades ranging from 9-13, making it especially useful for TIG weldings. Finally, it fulfils ANSI Z87.1 requirements albeit it is a bit expensive to other helmets in this class.
Specifications:
- Model: Jackson safety ultra weight HSL-100
- Material: Nylon
- Color: Black
- Weight: 2.2 pound
- View area; 3.94 x 2.36 inches
- No. sensors: 4
- ADF Filter: Present
- Optical clas: not mentioned
- Shade range: 9-13
- UV/IR protection: DIN16
- Power source: Battery and solar powered
- Welding operations: TIG, MMA/MAG, Weld and grind
- Users: Professionals and new comers
Pros
Cons