Which welding mask to choose in 2021

How to choose a welding helmet among the variety of designs? Welders are people with practical talents as inventors, so many do it themselves. And even the best samples and popular models may not satisfy the scrupulous requirements of welders. The best manufacturers understand what to pay attention to in order to increase the popularity of their models. The article is intended to highlight which welding helmet is better, which company is better, the functionality and cost of popular products.

Types of welding helmets

Currently, there are 4 main types of welding helmets.

A welding shield is the simplest type of mask, but has a significant drawback. He takes one hand to hold it in front of his face. This creates inconvenience, and in many cases leads to the impossibility of its use.

Therefore, they use a traditional mask with a mechanism for raising and folding the shield. The front part, which is a shield, is raised and fixed by temporarily holding it above the head, so that by moving the head the mask returns to working condition. Despite the fact that such a mask has become widely used, it is not free from a large number of inconveniences and disadvantages. Firstly, “nodding” the head to return the mask to the state of protection disrupts concentration on the subject of the work. Secondly, in hard-to-reach places and in unusual positions, using this type of mask may not be possible.

There are also masks with lifting light filters, the advantage of which is not only the possibility of use in hard-to-reach places, but also the presence of a permanent transparent window that protects against ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

There are welding masks equipped with air filtration that protect the respiratory system from harmful gases and poisoning.

Recently, the “chameleon” type mask has become most popular. The advantage of this type of mask is the presence of a special electric filter. Which contains a liquid crystal layer with polarizing films that lose transparency when a control current passes through them. To increase the quality of dimming, more expensive devices use several layers of LCD.

The last, recently emerged species, the “chameleon,” will be examined in detail. It has the widest distribution and can vary greatly in characteristics, convenience and design.

The best welding helmets with a fixed filter

5 Mask SIBIN 110805

Mask SIBIN 110805

The SIBIN 110805 shield is designed for individual protection of the welder’s face and eyes from bright light, ultraviolet and infrared radiation, splashes of molten metal and sparks when performing welding work, cutting and soldering metal.

Briefly about the product

fixed filter
darkening degree of a conventional 10 DIN filter
design features: folding filter, changeable filter
protective properties: protection against splashes of molten metal, impact-resistant material, protection against UV / IR rays

4 Mask ISTOK MAS007 PRO

Mask ISTOK MAS007 PRO

The welding mask Istok MAS-007 has a classic “shield” type design. It is designed to protect the face and eyes while welding. This half-helmet is fixed on the head due to the headband. The accessory is made of black polyethylene, which makes it durable and reliable. Its design is equipped with a window measuring 110x90 mm with a traditional light filter and with a darkening degree of DIN 8-12. The window has a lifting design. Simplicity, convenience, traditional design are the main advantages of the Istok MAS-007 welding mask, as well as its low weight (460 g).

Briefly about the product

fixed filter
darkening degree of a conventional 9 DIN filter
design features: folding filter, changeable filter
protective properties: impact-resistant material

3 Mask ROSOMZ NN10 Premier FavoriT (11)

ROSOMZ NN10 Premier FavoriT mask (11)

The welder's mask HH10 PREMIER FavoriT is designed to reliably protect the eyes and face of the welder from direct radiation from the welding arc, splashes of molten metal and sparks in all sectors of the national economic complex of Russia and the CIS countries at industrial sites, in workshops during the manufacture of parts, components, mechanisms (automotive industry, shipbuilding, mechanical engineering), as well as during installation, repair and other work related to the use of electric welding in conditions of low and high temperatures.

The body of the FavoriT shield is made of heat-resistant material TermotreK, is resistant to burnout, high and low temperatures and allows you to most conveniently raise the shield up and down, fixing it in these positions. The light filter improves visibility, the design of the shield body protects the welder's head, face, neck and upper chest as much as possible and ensures good air exchange in the space under the shield. Universal RAPID head mount with continuously adjustable size. Light filter gradation code from 9 to 14, Eurostandard size (110×90 mm), protected on both sides with a polycarbonate cover glass and backing. The universal, simple and flexible mounting of the light filter unit allows for quick replacement of the cover glass, substrate and light filter without the use of tools. The optimal weight of the shield (no more than 360 g), the operating temperature range from -40ºС to +80ºС allow this model to be used in industrial premises and in open areas. The modern balanced body design, improved visibility and optimal shield width allow the welder to penetrate into confined spaces.

Briefly about the product

fixed filter
darkening degree of a conventional 11 DIN filter
design features: installation of protective glass, change of filter
protective properties: protection against splashes of molten metal, impact-resistant material, protection against UV / IR rays

2 Mask SANTOOL 070202

Mask SANTOOL 070202

The welding helmet “SANTOOL 070202” belongs to the passive class (with permanently darkened glass). It is designed to protect the welder from all misfortunes associated with welding work.

Briefly about the product

fixed filter
design features: folding filter
protective properties: protection against splashes of molten metal, impact-resistant material

1 ESAB Eco-Arc II mask

ESAB Eco-Arc II mask

The new Eco-Arc II welding helmet is our latest development in welding helmets with a folding shield. The lightweight polypropylene body provides full face protection, allowing the helmet to be used in any welding position. The new Eco Head Gear is adjustable in 5 positions. The mask comes complete with a 90 X 110 mineral glass protective lens with a 11 DIN shade.

Briefly about the product

fixed filter
darkening degree of a conventional 11 DIN filter
design features: folding light filter, installation of protective glass
protective properties: protection against splashes of molten metal, impact-resistant material

What you need to know about "chameleons"

The time from flash of light to dimming in chameleon masks is less than 1 millisecond. Since the light molasses of a welding arc has different brightness, light filters with adjustable darkening levels are very convenient. And since welding work can be carried out both in areas well lit by sunlight, and in closed rooms with poor lighting. Then it is appropriate to adjust the initial dimming.

Meaning of basic adjustments

Blackout

This adjustment allows you to adjust the degree of darkness so that the subject is clearly visible. Increasing the dimming may be necessary when working with constant bright sunlight or artificial lighting.

Delay

This is the time it takes for the filter to actually brighten after the welding arc stops. Adjustment may be necessary when welding different types of metals. Ferrous metals cool quickly and the delay time can be selected to a minimum. But when welding cast iron, stainless steel and non-ferrous metals, the brightness at the welding site can last up to 1 second and turning off the light filter earlier can cause damage to the organs of vision.

Sensitivity

This adjustment allows you to adjust the filter threshold. This is necessary for various types of welding work.

What affects battery discharge and failure of the electronic unit?

Welding helmets from branded manufacturers are manufactured taking into account the above-described points. But some have one significant drawback. They are equipped with non-removable power supplies that do not have switches. On the one hand, this is reliable operation due to the absence of terminal oxidation. On the other hand, when the battery is discharged, replacing it is difficult and sometimes impossible. Electronic board chips may need firmware.

Most often, battery discharge occurs due to violation of the operating conditions of the device. In cases of low temperatures, the current consumption in idle mode increases sharply. At elevated temperatures, the quiescent current of shunt electrolytic capacitors increases, which even leads to their failure or rapid discharge of the battery.

High humidity can cause leakage between the micro-assembly conductors of the board, electrolysis with mechanical destruction of electronic parts and not only battery discharge, but also complete failure of the electronic unit. Therefore, the operating conditions must not only be read at the time of purchase, as characteristics, but also observed as conditions for the safety of the device.

The best models and manufacturers of welding helmets

The ratings of high-quality welding helmets are presented by both foreign and domestic manufacturers. Chinese manufacturers also present inexpensive and high-quality products. When considering the main characteristics of welding helmets, you can use various criteria for selecting the required product.

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor mask

This mask is from a German manufacturer, Fubag, founded in 1973. Since 1996, it has been known on the Russian market. The company pays great attention to the appearance of products, their packaging, the quality of materials and their storage. This company, one of the few, uses the method of acceptance testing of goods, which has won a high rating for the quality and durability of its products.

The mask has adjustable filter sensitivity, lightening time and degree of darkening. Shade range: 4 DIN – minimum; 13 DIN – maximum. Has 2 light sensors, 2 removable batteries. In any position, the filter protects against ultraviolet and infrared rays.

Available in three colors: light gray, more of a metallic color; red with graphic patterns and black with graphic designs. It is also possible to adjust the mask to fit on your head. Wide range of adjustment, comfortable in all positions. The mask material is impact-resistant plastic/polyamide, also called nylon.

The viewing window has dimensions of 100 × 65 mm. There are 4 sensors, which eliminates the possibility of shadows appearing on the sensor and reduces the likelihood of light protection not working, at the same time, to a minimum.

Settings: The controls are installed inside the mask and are small in size. This somewhat increases the inconvenience due to the impossibility of operational regulation. But it increases the safety of controls from damage, which is more important.

Weight: 0.5 kg. Average price: from 3,750 to 4,200 rubles, depending on the color and features of the model.

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor mask

Advantages:

many adjustments and everything works;
good visibility even in poor lighting;
Availability of CE certificate and requirements.

Flaws:

gets dirty;
Only one protective glass included.

Resanta MS-4 mask

This is a mask from the Latvian manufacturer Resant, well-known on Russian markets. The range and functionality of Resanta brand products is expanding, increasing the quality of manufactured products. The increase in the market for this brand contributes to the availability of spare parts for devices of this brand, and their reduction in price. Resanta products have a quality certificate.

Resanta MS-4 mask

The headband is of a rack type, the Resanta MS-4 mask has 3 adjustments for the fit on the head. Permanent protection against ultraviolet and infrared rays is 15 DIN. The degree of lightness and darkness are fixed and not adjustable, respectively: 4DIN and 11DIN. The delay for turning on the lightening after the darkening mode is also not adjustable and is half a second. Constant, unadjustable sensor sensitivity. The response time of the light filter when a welding arc occurs at a temperature of +23⁰С is 0.0001 seconds.

The case is made of high-strength plastic with protection against sparks and hot metal particles. The filter window is set exactly at eye level, but its position can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the headband.

Very convenient for amateur welding with electricity or gas. For long-term welding work, it is recommended to use a different welding helmet with a higher shade factor. This welding helmet is designed for short continuous working hours. With prolonged use, the turn-on time of the brightening can greatly increase, and with even more use, it simply stops brightening. After some time of “rest,” the filter “comes off” and is ready for further use.

There is a solar battery element for recharging the built-in lithium battery, consisting of 2 CR 927 batteries. The operating temperature range of the welding helmet is from –5⁰С to +55⁰С.

The window has dimensions: 90 × 32 mm. Weight 0.43 kg. Price 1,240 rubles.

Advantages:

budget option with good characteristics;
convenient fastening.

Flaws:

no grinding mode.

Mask Kedr K-202

The main equipment of the KEDR company is designed in Russia and manufactured at the Riland Industry CO plant. The company was founded in 1993 and became the pioneer welding equipment manufacturer in China. Has close cooperation with global manufacturers.

Mask Kedr K-202

The welder's mask Kedr K-202 has a unique shading system from 9DIN to 13DIN. The actual response time of the light filter after the arc appears is very short and amounts to 0.000 03 seconds. To check whether the filter is ready for operation, there is a “Test” button. A very comfortable headband ensures a good fit to the ergonomic shape of the mask. Comfortable conditions in the space inside the mask are created thanks to the heat-reflecting properties of the mask. The rounded and form-fitting shape of the mask minimizes the penetration of harmful welding gases and aerosols under the mask. Material – impact-resistant plastic.

A budget option for a welding helmet is suitable not only for welding enthusiasts, but also for professional long-term welding work. It has both external and internal polycarbonate protective glass, between which there is an automatic light filter.

The Kedr K-202 uses a solar battery with a built-in non-removable battery as power supply. The screen size is 96 × 39 mm, the cartridge size is 110 × 90 × 9 mm. The dimming off time is adjustable from 0.1 to 1 second. There is a grinding mode.

Welding masks Kedr K-202 are available in 3 colors: blue; red and black. Weight: 460 grams. Price: from 1,760 rubles - black, up to 1,950 rubles - blue and red models.

Advantages:

convenient, budget option.

Flaws:

not found.

ESAB Aristo Tech HD mask

One of the most famous manufacturers of welding equipment is Esab, Sweden. Leader in the development of innovative technologies in this area. The company constantly introduces new developments, while maintaining experience and classic technologies.

Even welding helmets with a folding light filter, not a “chameleon” from the Esab brand, are widely used by professionals as an auxiliary tool. These tools are valued for their simplicity, reliability, durability and convenience.

The ESAB Aristo Tech HD welding helmet has a high level of reliability with the highest optical class. This is a professional mask designed for multi-mode use. Grinding mode is activated automatically at minimum sensitivity.

ESAB Aristo Tech HD mask

The sensitivity control and dimming control are located outside, conveniently located on the side. Shading range from 5DIN to 13DIN, filter window 100 × 60 mm. There is an internal clearing delay regulator.

Temperature, ⁰С	–10	25	65	Clearance time, s
Response time, seconds	0,000 8	0,000 1	0,000 085	0,1 – 0,8

The forehead pad used in the mask protects the skin when worn for a long time and sweat occurs. Adjustments allow you to move the mask closer and further away from your face. You can separately purchase a special adapter for attaching the mask to the helmet. Equipped with hearing protection and magnifying lenses. There is also an automatic air supply unit. Operating temperature range: from –10⁰С to +55⁰С.

Built-in X-TIG function

Esab has developed a new tungsten inert gas welding process. This mode is called X-TIG, the welding current reaches only 5 Amps, it has the highest characteristics. In this mode, the radiation from the magnetic field of the welding arc is used and is captured by the electromagnetic sensors of the mask.

This eliminates the effect of sunlight and other welding radiation on the mask sensors. Especially when several welders are working together. Also in cases of shadow formation on sensors in inconvenient places, when welding pipes, shields, for reliable operation of the dimming system.

Weight: 0.52 kg. Price: 22,000 rubles.

Advantages:

high definition;
good and clear overview;
ease of adjustment, digital control;
There is a replaceable sweat band.

Flaws:

the price is high.

Welding mask Svarko ASF 777

This is one of the cheapest chameleon-type welding helmets at the price of classic Chinese-made welding helmets.

The mask is suitable for fans of welding with stick electrodes. There are 3 smooth adjustments: sensitivity, dimming and delay time. The dimming adjustment is set on the outside, and the sensitivity and delay time are set on the inside of the mask. The delay time adjustment range is from 0.1 to 1 second. Permanent eye protection against ultraviolet and infrared radiation is 13DIN. Electronic protection response time is 1/30,000 seconds.

A replaceable lithium battery is located in the inside of the mask, where the light filters are installed. It is removed by dismantling the filter strip. There are 2 photo sensors, independent of each other. The protection is triggered when light hits any of them.

The temperature range for storing the mask is from –20 to +70⁰С, and you can work in the range from –5 to +60⁰С. The ASF 777 light filter has dimensions: 110 × 90 × 9 mm. And the size of the viewing window: 100 × 41 mm. There is no grinding mode.

Weight: 505 grams. Price: about 800 rubles.

Welding mask Svarko ASF 777

Advantages:

low price;
the presence of smooth adjustments;
convenient adjustment of the light filter and headband;
made of durable parts;
It does its job and doesn't hurt your eyes.

Flaws:

not found.

POWERSHIELD EWM mask

EWM was founded near Cologne, Germany, in 1957 by Edmund Chesney. It was here that the world's first inverter welding was developed. This company is a leader in the market of welding technologies and instruments.

The POWERSHIELD EWM welding helmet is essentially an automated helmet. Available in 2 types. The first is POWERSHIELD 5-13, which has 2 ranges: 4/5-9 and 4/9-13. The second is POWERSHIELD 9-13, which has one range of 9-13.

POWERSHIELD EWM mask

The power system contains a solar battery element and a 3 V lithium battery. There is a smooth adjustment of sensitivity and adjustment of the clarification delay time. The two-range model has a sensor flap that increases the opening angle of the sensors, convenient for ceiling welding work. The single-band model has automatic adjustment of the protection level. A permanent filter protects your eyes from infrared and ultraviolet radiation.

Additional glass is available for sale for this manufacturer's mask. It is compatible with both EWM Powershield II 5-13 and EWM Powershield II 9-13 masks. Its price is 2,270 rubles.

The viewing glass of the helmet mask is quite durable, sealed with elastic material to reliably prevent smoke and aerosols from entering the mask. The convenient design of the mask allows you to fully customize all its modes without removing it through the satellites located outside.

Corundum-5 mask

The FoxWeld trademark is the largest manufacturer of electric welding equipment, tools and consumables from manufacturers in Europe and Asia. The brand belongs to Italy, the products are made in China. All equipment of this brand is certified and confirmed by Russian and European certificates. The products of this brand have an optimal quality/price ratio.

Corundum-5 mask

Korund-5 is a series of welding helmets with a picturesque design. In addition, it has a convenient, dust-proof, highly durable housing. Inside which there is a smooth sensitivity adjustment. The fade time delay control is mounted on the outside on the left side for easy adjustments without distracting your right hand. 2 independent photosensors are used as sensors of light radiation from the welding arc.

The dark state is 9-13DIN, the light state is 4DIN. Permanent protection against ultraviolet and infrared rays is approximately 16DIN. The power source is a solar battery with a built-in lithium cell. There is no power switch.

The cartridge window measures 110 × 90 mm. Filter brand 2100V. There is a grinding mode. The operating temperature range of the mask is from –5 to +55⁰С, and the storage temperature range is from –10 to +70⁰С.

The average price is from 2,980 to 3,430 rubles, with a 2100V filter, there are copies with other filters at a price of 2,180 rubles.

Advantages:

a good mask even for professional work;
operational adjustments for various types of welding;
a large number of colorful designs to choose from.

Flaws:

If you use it rarely, it will not justify its price.

Kemppi mask

The Finnish company Kemppi, founded in 1949 by the Kemppi brothers, produces high-quality welding equipment. The company has certificates: ISO 9001 and ISO 14001, all products of this company are CE marked.

The Kemppi helmet provides excellent protection for the face, chin, neck, ears, eyes and respiratory organs from damage during welding work. The lightweight and balanced design has an adjustable fit on the head. Decorated in a high-quality and interesting design.

Kemppi mask

Kemppi mask models

Alfa

It has good protection against radiation and burns, effectively protecting the welder’s face. Even with the tinted glass curtain up, it protects against small particles getting into your face. Not a "chameleon".

Beta 60

Also has good face protection. A distinctive feature is the low weight and high strength of the mask. There are 2 glasses: transparent and darkened. The latter has a size of 110 × 60 mm.

Beta 90

It has the same technical characteristics as the previous one. But the window size is larger: 110 × 90 mm, the darkening degree of which is EN-8-14.

Beta 90A chameleon

Structurally, it differs little from its predecessors, only an auto-dimming cartridge has been added. The permanent dark filter window measures 110 x 90 mm, but the viewing area measures 95 x 46.5 mm. The response time of protection against light radiation from the welding arc is 0.000 5 seconds, and the LCD brightening time is fixed at 0.2 seconds.

Beta 90X chameleon

This model differs from its predecessor only in the parameters of the filter cartridge. The protection activation time reaches 0.000 15 seconds, and the brightening time is increased and adjustable from 0.2 to 0.8 seconds.

Despite the variety and great demand, there are no significant and distinctive advantages and disadvantages of this product model. Only complaints about the high prices of some copies. Although the prices for all products of this brand of goods are quite reasonable.

The average price of a Kemppi non-chameleon model mask is 5,500 rubles, a Kemppi Beta 90A chameleon type mask is approximately 25,000 rubles, and a Beta 90X mask is 25,500 rubles.

Advantages:

a folding window makes it possible to knock down slag without removing the mask;
fits well to the size of the head.

Flaws:

poor heat dissipation; in winter, frost appears near the fastening;
relatively high price.

The best professional masks

6. Aurora Sun-9 Max Expert

Despite the fact that this model belongs to the class of professional products, it is characterized by a not very high price, so a home craftsman can afford such a product. The mask is characterized by a light filter developed using the latest technology. It differs from most in its superior optical class qualities in terms of light dispersion, transmission uniformity and angular dependence. The mask's battery is removable and has a fairly long service life. If necessary, the welder can replace it on his own. There are special connectors that allow you to additionally install magnifying glasses. You can also connect a respirator to the mask. There are fasteners that allow you to connect it to a construction helmet.

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The light filter operates on liquid crystals, which makes the mask very effective when working with all types of welding. The headband has a soft forehead, and there is an adjustable distance from the mask to the welder’s face. The mask has four optical sensors at once and is distinguished by an increased area of the light filter. The removable battery itself is supplemented with a solar panel. The model has a certificate of compliance with the highest European and American standards. The mask is made from high-quality non-flammable polyethylene, which is additionally covered with a special protective film.

Advantages:

Very fast dimming;
Wide viewing angle;
Can be attached to a construction helmet or connected to a respirator.

Flaws:

Quite a decent mass.

Aurora Sun-9 Max Expert

ROSOMZ NN12 Crystaline Standart FavoriT

This product is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors, including in the cold season. In particular, it can work at temperatures from -20 to +70 degrees. The body is made from non-flammable material SUPER Termotrek, which perfectly withstands not only the effects of high and low temperatures, but also their significant differences. The degree of darkness is adjusted manually. The mounting on the head is quite comfortable, so the size of the mask can be easily adjusted to the diameter of the head. The light filter is powered by a solar battery, but the mask has a lithium-ion battery.

The handle responsible for the degree of darkening is located outside, which is very convenient during operation. The mass of the mask is small - it is only about 0.5 kg. The viewing window is quite large, 110x90 mm. The light filter is reliably protected from all possible damage using plastic glass.

Advantages:

Very comfortable;
Made from high-quality and durable materials;
Easy to adjust.

Flaws:

From time to time it is necessary to purchase protective glasses.

ROSOMZ NN12 Crystaline Standart FavoriT

Esab Warrior Tech

The Swedish company has been producing its products for quite a long time; it has been present on the Russian welding equipment market for about 17 years. The body of the mask is made of lightweight, high-strength plastic, which will retain its original shape and beautiful appearance throughout the entire period of operation. All adjustment elements are located directly above the viewing window. The mask has a large number of settings that allow you to tightly fit it to your head size. All this is done by rotating special regulators. The product is quite light - its weight is just over 0.5 kg.

The mask is a universal product: it can be used for almost all types of welding work, and in any conditions. It reliably protects the skin of the face and organs of vision from negative influences. The picture in the viewing window is as clear as possible, largely due to the excellent optical characteristics of the filter, which can automatically darken when the arc is ignited. The degree of darkness can be changed. If necessary, you can purchase a mask equipped with lenses with diopters. The functionality of the product is very high, the same can be said about the performance characteristics. The mask is of high quality and meets all operator comfort and safety requirements.

Advantages:

The headband is very comfortable during use;
Good eye protection;
Advanced functionality.

Flaws:

Quite expensive;
It will not be possible to change the battery if necessary.

Esab Warrior Tech

Fubag Optima 5-13 Panoramic

The mask has become widespread among professional welders largely due to its versatility, however, there are two types of welding that are not suitable for it - laser and oxygen-acetylene. However, they are quite expensive, so they are rarely used in production, and never at all in everyday life. The standard weight of the product is 510 grams. The body is made from high-quality polymer material, which is flexible but quite durable. Such a mask can fall from a great height without any consequences. The manufacturer recommends using such products indoors or outdoors if the ambient temperature is not lower than -5 degrees. On the front of the product there are four autonomous sensors in the corners, which ensures instant dimming. You should carefully monitor their condition and remove dirt in a timely manner, otherwise they will operate with a delay.

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The overview is simply perfect thanks to the large size of the viewing window 100x90 mm, while the thickness of the filter is 9 mm. The degree of sensitivity and level of darkness can be adjusted from within the mass. Moreover, all adjustments are smooth, and not stepped, like most products included in our review of the best welding helmets. The delay time can also be changed - this indicator will allow the filter to turn off a few seconds after the completion of welding. Accordingly, the afterglow of the bath will have time to go away. The range in this case is from 0.15 to 0.8 s. The light filter operates on the basis of a solar battery or a replaceable lithium-ion battery.

Advantages:

The viewing window is very large;
Combined power supply system;
Unique body;
Long period of operation.

Flaws:

Expensive;
The main controls are located inside the mask.

Fubag Optima 5-13 Panoramic

Fubag Optima 9-13

A very convenient design that is perfect for both home craftsmen and experienced welders working in various areas of industrial production. The sensitivity adjustment is external; it is possible to change the darkening of the mask in the range from 9 to 13 DIN units. This model is equipped with a rotating system, that is, it is not necessary to remove it at all - you just need to lift it up. Like all similar designs, this mask can be adjusted to fit your head size. There is a mode switch - grinding or welding. In the first case, the light filter is simply turned off; the mask can be used as usual eye protection when working, for example, with an angle grinder.

This model operates on the basis of solar panels, so before the first direct use it will need to be charged for about half an hour. The sensitivity of the light filter is quite high: with certain settings it can react to the light of a bright lamp. The kit comes with a replaceable outer lens. The manufacturer provides a very long warranty period - two years.

Advantages:

For professional products it is quite cheap;
The case is shockproof;
The filter works instantly.

Flaws:

Quite modest functionality.

Fubag Optima 9-13

3M SpeedGlass 9100XX

This is one of the largest masks in our entire review of the best similar products. However, the product came out in first place not only for this reason. First of all, this mask is very easy to use. The light filter is very reliable; everything is visible through it in an unshaded format just fine, although in greenish-yellow tones. Darkening is provided instantly, regardless of the angle at which the light from the welding arc falls on the light filter. The viewing angle is quite wide. It has a permanent dimming 5 DIN. The headband is very comfortable, and a system for comfortable exhaust air removal is also provided.

The mask has excellent strength against mechanical stress. In addition, it is resistant to exposure to high-speed particles, and protects the eyes well from ultraviolet and infrared radiation, regardless of the welding mode used. The size of the viewing window is 107x73 mm - quite enough for comfortable work. The weight is slightly higher compared to other similar designs - 591 grams. The light filter is powered by a solar battery or replaceable batteries.

Advantages:

Expanded functionality;
The product uses only high-quality modern materials;
It is possible to provide a high level of comfort during all work.

Flaws:

Except for the high price was not found.

3M SpeedGlass 9100XX

Some recommendations when buying a welding helmet for amateurs and professionals

Masks of the “chameleon” type are necessary for both professionals and beginners. Professionals choose the necessary model depending on the type of work and operating conditions. Which can not only last a long time, but also protect the organs of vision, hearing and breathing to the maximum extent during operation. At the same time, it should be convenient and have a wide range of applications.

For amateurs and welding practitioners, chameleon type masks are also required. For this purpose, manufacturers produce cheaper options. But if a person is simply learning to weld, then he needs a device with a wide range of adjustments.

And if you need a mask as a tool that is not often used, then a budget option is suitable. At the same time, to increase the service life, it is necessary to comply with the storage conditions of the device.

Also, to avoid buying a counterfeit when choosing a branded model, you need to check the availability of a certificate from the seller’s store. To ensure warranty service, you must keep the warranty service document and the store receipt. The number specified in the warranty agreement must match the product number and the number indicated on the sales receipt.

What to look for when purchasing

When choosing a welding helmet, you must first take into account the type of work being performed and the conditions in which it is carried out.

A welding shield will provide minimal protection: it may be convenient to move it aside and put it on, but such a product does not cover the neck area or ears. A set of replacement glasses with different tints is also required.
A similar mask with attachments for a helmet or head is made of more durable materials. The multilayer structure of the shield consists of darkened and heat-resistant elements. The light filter in some models is not attached to the protective shield, which better protects against splashes.
Chameleon is a type of mask with a light filter of the same name. The peculiarity is that it is automatic, that is, there is no need to manually lift the glass to check the completed seam. The degree of darkening is selected mechanically depending on the brightness of the arc. So far, chameleons are considered the most versatile and reliable type, which provides excellent protection from heat and fragments, is easy to use, and has a long service life.
When working with toxic metals or when there is insufficient ventilation during work, it is important to provide additional respiratory protection. For this purpose, models with forced air supply are chosen. The built-in fan uses a blower on the mask to supply purified air to the worker; the structure is powered by a battery.

The more reliable the welding mask, the more expensive it is. In order to choose a quality option, you should pay attention to individual components.

– Light filters
. The goal is protection from heat, all types of radiation (ultraviolet, infrared), and mechanical fragments. More imperfect and affordable are masks with replaceable glasses: in such traditional models, the degree of shading is not adjustable, but it is possible to install the desired glass depending on the work being performed. In some cases, they are used at low temperatures, since automatic light filters often do not have time to adjust in the cold. Chameleons have become more popular, because one device can be used for all work - it will automatically adjust the degree of darkness. Versatility, of course, results in a slightly higher price.
- Frame
. The main thing is a tight fit to the face, dielectricity, and heat resistance. It is made of fiber or plastic, and the former does not provide the necessary protection from high temperatures. Plastic is more reliable, especially if it is made of impact-resistant materials that do not allow heat, splashes, or electric current to pass through.
– Dimensions
. During the welding process, the head is tilted almost all the time; the load on the neck only increases if the mask is heavy. It is better to choose not only lightweight, but also adjustable options to customize the product individually. All fastenings and straps must be strong.
– Documentation
. You can only trust products with a certificate of conformity, a warranty card, full technical specifications, and information about the manufacturer.

Stores now offer many types of masks for welders from various manufacturers, both domestic and foreign. The average cost of budget class models varies from 700 to 3000 rubles, medium – from 5000 to 9000 rubles, and high-end masks reach 20-30 thousand rubles.