9 best welding helmet with variable shades

A welding helmet with variable shades is a type of headgear used in welding processes to provide protection for the face and eyes from the hazards associated with welding. The key feature of such a helmet is the ability to adjust the darkness or shade of the lens to varying levels, depending on the welding application and the intensity of the welding arc.

Here are the main aspects related to welding helmets with variable shades:

  1. Auto-Darkening Filter (ADF): The core component that enables variable shading in the welding helmet is the auto-darkening filter. This filter contains liquid crystals that respond to the intensity of the welding arc. When the arc is struck, the filter automatically darkens to a specific shade to protect the welder's eyes from the bright light.

  2. Variable Shade Levels: Welding helmets with variable shades offer a range of shade levels, typically from #9 to #13. The user can adjust the shade level based on the welding process, material being welded, and the brightness of the arc. Lighter shades (#9-#11) are suitable for lower-intensity welding, while darker shades (#12-#13) are used for high-intensity welding.

  3. Shade Adjustment Controls: These helmets have controls that allow the wearer to adjust the shade level according to the specific welding requirements.This feature enhances adaptability and versatility in various welding applications.

  4. Sensitivity and Delay Controls: Adjustable sensitivity and delay settings enable the welder to customize how quickly the auto-darkening filter reacts to the welding arc and how long it stays dark after welding. This customization enhances user comfort and reduces eye strain.

  5. Grinding Mode: Welding helmets with variable shades often include a grinding mode that allows the wearer to use the helmet for grinding and other non-welding tasks. In this mode, the lens remains in a lighter state for better visibility.

  6. Comfort and Ergonomics: These helmets are designed for comfort during prolonged use. They typically have adjustable headbands, padding, and a balanced weight distribution to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

  7. Power Source: The auto-darkening feature is powered by batteries, solar cells, or a combination of both. Solar-powered helmets use sunlight to recharge the batteries, ensuring consistent functionality.

In summary, a welding helmet with variable shades is a crucial piece of personal protective equipment used in welding. Its ability to adjust shade levels automatically or manually enhances the welder's safety and comfort by providing optimal visibility and protection during welding tasks.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best welding helmet with variable shades on the market
  

Weldmark Variable Shade Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet - BLACK WM8VS9-13H

Unknown

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Shade: 9-13
  • Solar powered with 2 replacement AAA battery back up (Included)
  • Lightweight, high impact resistant nylon shell
  • Viewing Area: 3.82" x 1.79"

User questions & answers

Question: can you adjust the auto darking setting
Answer: if it screws on yes
Question: What does the 3 year lens warranty mean exactly? The clear plastic lenses or what
Answer: No , it is held on by three little screws shown in picture . The knob goes onto which ever adapter is needed and then tightened with he allen wrench also shown

Jackson Safety Ultra-Lightweight Insight Variable Auto Darkening Filter Welding Helmet, Nylon, Halo X, Black, Universal Size, 46131

Jackson Safety

Based on 378 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Jackson Safety Ultra-Lightweight Insight Welding Helmet is built with four auto dimming sensors with easy-to-use controls, positioned to reduce possibility of blockage during welding. This ADF helmet has a viewing area of 3.93" x 2.36" and offers an un-obstructive view during all stages of the welding process, without lifting the hood. With variable shades from 9 to 13, this helmet has sensitivity and delay adjustments for different tasks and durations, enabling welders to adapt to various working environments by controlling the shade of the lens. Jackson Safety W40 INSIGHT Variable Auto Darkening Welding Helmet is compatible with the HLX100 and HSL 100 shells, meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards and is CSA compliant. Established in 1933, Jackson Safety has built a century long reputation for delivering the most innovative safety solutions in the welding and personal protective equipment industries. When it comes to providing safety solutions with long-lasting value, durability and comfort, Jackson Safety has set the standard. Whether the need is for welding protection in a steel fabrication environment, head protection on a construction site, or hearing protection at an airport, Jackson Safety provides the widest range of safety choices to meet the needs of every job and every worker.

  • Features: This Jackson Safety Ultra-Lightweight Insight Welding Helmet is built with four auto dimming sensors with easy-to-use controls, positioned to reduce possibility of blockage during welding
  • Design: This ADF helmet has a viewing area of 3.93" x 2.36" and offers an un-obstructive view during all stages of the welding process, without lifting the hood
  • Clean View: With variable shades from 9 to 13, this helmet has sensitivity and delay adjustments for different tasks and durations, enabling welders to adapt to various working environments by controlling the shade of the lens
  • Gives you the compliance you're looking for, since it meets ANSI Z87.1+ standards and is CSA compliant

User questions & answers

Question: my questions were answered,question; where do I get more lens
Answer: Will no work on my miller helmet.
Question: What's the warranty on this helmet
Answer: They will light up your welding zone very well but they do eat batteries.
Question: what size are the clear lenses? also, are they on amazon
Answer: I don't have a battery tester at home but as soon as I received it, I tried using one of these to replace my existing battery for our smoke alarm and it didn't work. So I had to fully charge it first before using it and it finally worked. Therefore to answer your question, for sure it is not at its full capacity and also not sure if it has some power left but I'd rather charge it first before using it. Hope this helps. good luck!
Question: How much shading does the helmet do when it's not activated? Grinding mode is level 4. Is that as light as it gets
Answer: Yes made in China. Didnt hold a charge as long as American made batteries. We would not buy again.

Product features

Jackson Safety Insight Variable Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

The Jackson Safety Insight Welding Helmet is the perfect fit for both your professional needs and your budget. The helmet features a variable auto-darkening filter, easy-to-use digital controls, and an ultra-light weight shell.

Dimensions

The helmet has a viewing area of 3.93 x 2.36 inches, offering unobstructed views during all stages of welding process, without lifting hood.

Adaptable

With variable shades from 9 to 13, this helmet features sensitivity and delay adjustments for different tasks and durations.

Modes

Choose from grind and weld modes (used for mig welding, tig welding, and arc welding) on this value-centric welding mask.

Metal Man ATEC8735SGC 9-13 Variable Shade Professional Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet, Techno Skull

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Metal Man Welding Helmet is an upgrade from the Original Techno Skull Welding Helmet. The ATEC8735SGC features the same great looking graphics with upgraded lens features. This solar powered helmet uses CR2450 replacement batteries. It features 4 arc sensors and an increased viewing area of 3.78 in. x 2.05 in. Adjust your shade control from 9 to 13 or put it in Grind mode to prevent darkening while grinding. Made to fit right, the 5-point adjustable head gear allows you to make it fit your way. With ANSI and CSA approval, the Metal Man ATEC8735SGC Auto-Darkening helmet is safe, functional, and attractive to users.

  • Extremely fast response to light from electric arc. Keeps your eyes safe during TIG, MIG, MMA or plasma applications
  • 4 Arc Sensors. Ensures lens will darken even when partially blocked by object.
  • Wide Lens. Allows you to easily see your work area.
  • Shade Control adjustable. Optimize welding mask for any project.
  • Five point adjustable helmet. Personalize fit for working comfortably!
  • Two year warranty. No worry purchase!
  • 3.78 in. x 2.05 in. viewing area

User questions & answers

Question: does this have the green or blue lens technology
Answer: Not stickers.
Question: Is this helmet good for tig, mig, flux, oxyacetylene, and stick
Answer: Easy. Throw it in the washing machine, then hang it up to air dry. I would not put it in the dryer.
Question: What size are the inner and outer clear replacement lenses ? Can you buy them at a local weld supply or have to special order them
Answer: Yes. Just hang it up to air dry afterwards.
Question: Are the flames stickers or airbrush
Answer: Yes

LINCOLN ELECTRIC 2x4 C-Series Auto-Darkening Welding Lens Variable Shade 8-13 KP3775-1

Lincoln Viking

Based on 426 reviews Check latest price

Product description

World renowned lens technology provides crystal clear view of the arc and puddle. The exclusive liquid crystal lens broadens the color range & hues which can be seen in both light and dark states. Eliminates color saturation for a true color view. Reduces eye strain for all day comfort. High quality and consistent performance which minimizes blurriness and distortion. Compatible with most pipeline and pancake style helmets. Shade control for seamless process & amperage changes. Sensitivity control for optimized performance based on application. High temperature ABS lens housing to lens failures due to heat deformation. 2 Height x 4.25 Length. Two year warranty from date of purchase covering internal defects. Package of 1

  • World renowned lens technology provides crystal clear view of the arc and puddle
  • The exclusive Liquid crystal lens broadens the color RANGE & hues which can be seen in both light and dark States
  • Eliminates Color saturation for a true Color view
  • Reduces eye strain for all day comfort
  • High quality and consistent performance which minimizes blurriness and distortion

User questions & answers

Question: I’m not sure if these are water resistant or not, I’m hoping so!!! Please give a comment back
Answer: Requires 2 Batteries Lithium - CR1025
Question: Whats the auto dark switch speed numbers
Answer: Sorry, I do not know the answer.
Question: How does it compare to the singles 240 hd lens
Answer: No. Tig, might, n stick. To dark for gas
Question: What are the numbers to replace the button batteries
Answer: You can get the other lens at Tractor Supply the inter and you have to order

Product features

LINCOLN ELECTRIC 2x4 C-Series Auto-Darkening Welding Lens Variable Shade 8-13 KP3775-1

Top Features

  • 4C Lens Technology eliminates imperfections and color saturation to create a clear view of the base material, arc & puddle while reducing eye strain.
  • Variable shade range of 8 - 13 for personalized shade control and seamless welding application changes
  • Variable sensitivity for optimal lens performance based on application
  • Shade 3 light state for setup or inspection work

Weldmark Variable Shade Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet - BLUE FLAMES BF8VS9-13

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price
  • Warranty: 3 years
  • Shade: 9-13
  • Solar powered with 2 replacement AAA battery back up (Included)
  • Lightweight, high impact resistant nylon shell
  • Viewing Area: 3.82" x 1.79"

User questions & answers

Question: What color do you see when you weld
Answer: The ArcOne HD Singles have better clarity in my opinion.

Solar Auto-Darkening Welding Filter Lens, Welding Helmet Lens Filter Shade, Variable Shade Horizontal Filter 4-1/4" x 2" Mask Lens Filter Shade 3-11 ab, Pack of 3

Based on 61 reviews Check latest price

Product description

▲Features:

Automatic ON/OFF easy and safety to operate.

It fits all standard welding helmet window opening.





▲Specifications:

Light State:3

Variable Shade:11

Power Supply: Solar Cell, 1 pcs Li-Mno2

Rate of UV transmittance: < 0.0001%(210-365nm)

Rate of IR transmittance: < 0.01%(780-2000nm)

  • ▲Shade Automatically: It can shade automatically in welding states and filter out the bad light.q
  • ▲High clear view filter: Use high quality LCD and multilayer optical interference filter.
  • ▲Good Protection: You will have a good protection with it at working and precent occupational disease.
  • ▲Universal Fit: it fits all standard welding helmet window opening, helmet/mask.
  • ▲Warranty - Refund Service For 30 Days. 12-Month Warranty, If There'S Any Problem With Our Product, Please Contact Us. You Can Get A Replacement Or A Full Refund Immediately.

Jackson Safety Insight Welding Helmet ADF Cartridge, 46128 - Digital Variable Auto Darkening Filter Replacement with Sensitivity and Delay Adjustments, Variable Shades 9-13, Digital Controls

Jackson Safety

Based on 36 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Jackson Safety ADF Cartridge for Insight Welding Helmets (sold separately) has been newly updated with industry leading 1/1/1/1 optical clarity and True Color. It is built with four auto dimming sensors with easy-to-use controls positioned to reduce the possibility of blockage during welding jobs. It offers a viewing area of 3.93" x 2.36" and an un-obstructed view during all stages of the welding process, without having to lift the helmet's hood. With variable shades from 9 to 13, it has sensitivity and delay adjustments for different tasks and durations, enabling welders to adapt to various working environments by controlling the shade of the lens.

  • UPDATED MODEL: This Jackson Safety Lightweight Insight Welding Helmet with a Stars & Scars design is built with 4 sensors to reduce possible blockage; It’s been newly updated with industry-leading 1/1/1/1 optical clarity and True Color
  • SOFT PADDING: Its triple layer, 3/4" thick, closed cell foam pad provides the ultimate protective layer, plus the best comfort you’ll find; Sold as a pair of 2 knee pads
  • NO PRESSURE: Soft elastic woven straps are positioned well above and below the knee and have a speed clip for quick attachment; Adjustable, unisex design can be worn by adult men and women
  • FLEXIBLE MOVEMENT: Knee pads are constructed with a metal rivet hinge, which offers ease of movement when walking or kneeling; Its non-marking grip strip can be safely used on any floor or surface
  • PROFESSIONAL USES: Heavy duty knee pads are a must-have for many jobs, including military/tactical, flooring, tiling, roofing, landscaping, and HVAC work; Comes with a mesh carry bag for portability

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a payment plan for this
Answer: Yes, that's what I have and it works great. The added benefit is that You can go with the old school one for a larger view on all day jobs and the Insight on quick change fixture jobs and etc. Kind of a twofer deal!
Question: Will this fit a Jackson Nexgen helmet
Answer: Depends what welding unjt you are doing I mostly see blue
Question: What is the difference between the two options
Answer: As long as you don’t keep it submerged it will work well. I was tig welding under a cooling tower and was constantly being rained on and it never lagged out or anything. My lense is also protected by a clear lense on both sides and a gasket in the front.
Question: Will this lens fit my Jackson hood, it has a standard 4.5 by 5.25 lens
Answer: Switching speed is at 1/10,000 sec.

Product features

Jackson Safety Shade 9-13 Insight Digital Variable Auto Darkening ADF Cartridge

The Jackson Safety Insight Digital Variable Replacement Cartridge is designed with the consumer welder in mind, featuring a variable auto-darkening filter, easy-to-use digital controls, and four independent sensors.

Dimensions

This replacement cartridge has a viewing area of 3.93" x 2.36" and offers an un-obstructed view during all stages of the welding process, without lifting the hood.

Adaptable

With variable shades from 9 to 13, this replacement cartridge has sensitivity and delay adjustments for different tasks and durations.

Design

This cartridge is built with four independent sensors.

Holulo Solar Power Variable Face Shade Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet Blue Arc Tig Mig Mask Welder Shield View size 93 mm X 43 mm(3.66" X 1.69")(Blue)

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price
  • *Color: Blue; Material: PA/PP; View size: 93 X 43mm(3.66” X 1.69”); Auto-Darkening welding helmet are designed to protect the eyes and face from sparks, spatter, and harmful radiation under normal welding conditions.
  • *Filter dimensions: 110mm X 90mm X 9mm; Light states:DIN4.8, welding helmet.Our welding helmet is featured with a huge viewing size auto lens, which is extremely fast responsive to electric arc from TIG, MIG, MMA or Plasma applications. Can be used on grinding, cutting and welding applications.
  • *Dark states:DIN8-12 ;Dark states:DIN11 ; Variable optical response time: 1/10000s
  • *Recovery time: 0.1s/0.8s; Power supply: Solar cell and lithium batteries, lithium batteries capacity: 60mAH; Arc number of sensors: 2; Arc number of sensors: 2
  • * It is a perfect upgrade from goggles and fixed shade glass welding helmet, or from a small size old auto lens helmet at a very reasonable cost. Note : If you have any questions about the use and installation of the product, please contact us for the freely , we will promptly reply to you

User questions & answers

Question: Is there any replacement clears for this hood... inside and out
Answer: To be honest I have no idea, but it fits a Miller elite hood. I got one in my hood and it works just fine. If it doesn’t fit yours, just sell it to a coworker
Question: I need a replacement lens for this helmet. How do i order one
Answer: $11, near as I can tell. Been wondering the same thing.

Metal Man ASF8700SG 9-13 Variable Shade Professional Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet, Silver Flame Pattern

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Metal Man Professional Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet has all the features the professional welder expects and customized graphics for a look that they want. This fully automatic helmet gives the user the ability to make adjustment to important controls such as shade, sensitivity, and delay. The grind feature also allows the user to wear the helmet while grinding. With ANSI and CSA approval, the helmet features a5-point adjustable ratchet style head gear with a removable/washable sweat band.

  • 3.86 in. x 1.87 in. viewing area
  • 9-13 variable shade control with auto darkening lens
  • Grind mode
  • 5-point adjustable head gear
  • Removable/washable sweat band
  • Solar powered, plus two replaceable batteries, with auto on/off

User questions & answers

Question: description states 2 replaceable batteries but further in description states batteries included? no & batteries required? no. Which is it
Answer: Dear friend, it is a pity that there is no replacement lens for this helmet, any questions, welcome to email us. Have a nice day!
Question: Which hard hat adapter fits this hood best
Answer: No

Product features

Features + Benefits

  • Large 3.54in. x 1.57in. viewing area makes it easy to see your work
  • Solar-powered, variable shade DIN 9-13 auto-darkening lens delivers hands-free protective performance
  • Rugged, lightweight, flame-retardant construction
  • Grind mode adds versatility
  • Very fast 1/20,000-second switch time
  • 2 independent arc sensors
  • Large lens design allows welder to see clearly at different angles
  • Comfortable, fully adjustable head suspension system reduces operator fatigue
  • Fully automatic On/Off power
  • Equipped with external knobs to provide easy adjustment of sensitivity and delay settings

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