Arc welding was patented in 1890. Back then, it was a dangerous and challenging job only for the brave. Most welders used only black goggles to protect themselves. This crude equipment didn’t do a lot to protect them from fumes and sparks, making them prone to injuries. It was not until the 1930s that the first welding helmet was invented. However, the equipment lacked basic safety features such as UV radiation protection. Today, the tool is not even close to the best welding helmet for beginners in terms of quality and safety rating. Modern helmets have multiple sensors in various shades and are lightweight.
Novice welders looking for decent welding helmets have many options on the current market. It can be a daunting task to pick the right equipment for you. That’s why we have selected the top 9 best welding helmets for you, so you don’t have to spend a lot of time doing research. In our selection, we considered features such as durability, viewing area, comfortability, auto-darkening, optical clarity, and so forth.
More features: compatible with a magnifying lens, increased battery life, pivot style headgear
First on our list of the best beginner welding helmets is the YESWELDER True Color Solar Powered Auto-darkening Welding Helmet. It comes in five colors/styles: Bright Black, lightning, Fire female, Cyberpunk and Black. With a weight of1.87 pounds and measurements of 8.5 x 7.5 x 12.8 inches, this equipment is extremely portable and easy to store. One lithium-ion battery is included in the purchase to power this helmet.
This powered auto-darkening equipment is best for those novices looking for authentic color view helmets. This feature is made possible by its true color technology that preserves an optical clarity rating of 1-1-1-2. The technology also improves visibility and reduces your eye strain. With this helmet, you can forget about the traditional lime green color that most outdated equipment has. This helmet has been designed to provide maximum protection against all kinds of impacts regarding safety. It features foam padding on the inside and outer shell, which helps absorb shocks and protects your head from injury.
The YESWELDER helmet also provides an adjustable head strap, making it comfortable to wear. It comes with a quick-release buckle system to easily remove it when not using it. This helmet will fit comfortably on your head even if you have large heads with its lightweight construction. You can adjust the straps according to your size and shape. Other notable features include a rechargeable battery, two premium sensors, a cheater lens, and a magnifying lens. You do not need to manually recharge the batteries as they obtain their power via solar. Even if you are not directly under the sun, the UV rays created when welding will power your solar and charge the lithium-ion battery.
More features: adjustable ratchet headband, oversize sweatband for improved comfort
Next up on our list is the Lincoln Electric K3419 – 1 Helmet. This helmet comes in one color and is made of a high-impact plastic frame and a polycarbonate material, making it incredibly lightweight. This Lincoln equipment only weighs 1.5 pounds and measures 11.2 x 10.25 x 11.87 inches. You can use this equipment for TIG, Stick, Pulsed TIG, MIG, Pulsed MIG, and gouging welding.
This helmet is suitable for beginners who want to start welding without investing in expensive equipment. Thanks to its adjustable ratchet headband, it is easy to install and remove thanks to its elastic ratchet headband that can fit into any head. The helmet’s oversized sweatband provides extra comfort that makes it easier for you to learn welding for an extended period without getting fatigued. What’s more, this helmet is versatile. You can learn stick welding, pulsed TIG, pulsed MIG, MIG, flux-cored, and gouging without having to get new equipment for each type.
You get a full face shield that covers your entire face with this equipment. It offers excellent protection against flying sparks and debris. The helmet’s anti-fog coating keeps your vision clear even during long hours of welding. The glass lenses provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. The helmet’s inner lining is soft and breathable, which prevents heat buildup. Its ventilation design allows air to flow freely around your head. There are side vents located at the different sides of the helmet, allowing airflow into the helmet.
More features: adjustable shade range, auto-darkening shade range DIN4/9~13, suitable for industrial use
TOOOLIOM has designed a welders’ helmet that is both stylish and functional. This specific design is available in three styles which include TL-EF9242, Blue Eagle, and Flaming Skull. Each variation is constructed from durable ABS plastic material and compatible with all welding machines, including TIG, MIG and stick welding. The helmet is very lightweight and portable as it weighs just 1.65 pounds and measures 12.13 x 10.04 x 7.68 inches.
This Blue Eagle helmet is suitable for beginners who want significant control over their equipment. It is equipped with a sensitivity adjustment knob that allows you to control the helmet’s light sensors. For extra visibility, set this knob to the lowest setting possible. For maximum eye protection, set it to the highest value. A delay adjustment knob also comes with this equipment to help you get the perfect dimming settings. Use the lowest delay value for the best experience.
TOOLIOM Blue Eagle helmet also features an ergonomic design that gives you maximum comfort when working. It comes with a prominent forehead pad that reduces fatigue and discomfort. The top of the helmet is designed with a ventilating port that lets cool air enter the equipment. It is equipped with a clear light lens that provides extra clarity and vision in your workplace. This feature ensures that you can accurately locate your welding points without removing the helmet. It also has a UV/IR shade 16 that effectively blocks ultraviolet radiation and infrared red light from reaching your eyes. A cheater lens is available for welders who need any vision correction.
More features: better clarity, super large viewing scale, increased battery life
YESWELDER has created yet another welding helmet that not only protects your eyes but also makes you feel comfortable while using it. The welder’s helmet is made of strong yet lightweight materials. It is also easy to adjust and mount on your head. It is available in 6 different styles: A, B, CP, VK, and VM. All these variations have the same specs but differ in shape or color.
This YESWELDER LYG-M800H succeeded the LYG-500 model reviewed above. It is hence, packed with more features than the latter. Its unique features include a super large viewing area of size 3.93 x 3.66 inches. It also has four premium quality sensors that will never let you down under any circumstances. They will always coordinate and work efficiently to protect your eyesight. Talking of battery life, this model has a bigger capacity battery and solar to ensure you weld throughout the day without any fuss. It can also be used for Plasma applications, unlike its predecessor.
The YESWELDER welding helmet is compatible with all welder machines, including TIG, Stick, and MIG. It has a mode toggle that enables you to switch between grinding, welding, and cutting. Hence, you do not need to remove the equipment whenever you need to grind or cut a piece of metal for welding. Its anti-fog lens keeps your view clear regardless of whether you are cutting or grinding. The lens is also adjustable to ensure that you can see everything. The viewing screen is also equipped with a brightness control knob that lets you adjust the intensity of the lighting. This feature will ensure that you do not strain your eyes when doing welding. The helmet comes with three replacement lenses and one lithium-ion battery, so you don’t have to panic when any parts become unresponsive.
More features: adjustable shade range, auto-darkening hood, high practicality
DEKOPRO is another name to add to the list of best welding helmets for beginners. This helmet is available in three colors/styles: Black, orange/black, and round black. All the variations are made from anti-scratch and high-impact durable material. The helmet has been designed to provide maximum visibility while minimizing glare. Weighing just 1.54 pounds and with dimensions of 12.28 x 9.57 x 7.76 inches, this equipment is lightweight and can be stored in the most compact workplaces. You will also have no problem wearing it for long periods.
This helmet is the go-to for novices who want maximum and reliable eye protection equipment. Its auto-darkening filter can switch from light to dark in 1/15000 seconds. This feature provides you with a clear view and adequate protection against UV rays and IR radiation when needed. If the battery fails, you will remain protected from these rays and radiation. This helmet is also reliable and durable. It is made of robust PP components that are anti-aging and wear-resistant. Its battery is powered by solar, so you do not need to worry about replacing it after a few uses. It even has a long life of up to 5000 hours. This duration is more than enough to weld any prototype or item.
DEKOPRO helmet also has a unique design. It features an adjustable head strap that fits comfortably over your head. The adjustable headband ensures that the helmet stays snugly on your head. It is portable and designed with balance in mind. The helmet’s fashionable appearance sets it further from its competitors.
More features: comes in a set with split welding gloves
Next up is the Forney 377 Welder Starter Kit. This kit includes a helmet, goggles, gloves, and earplugs. The helmet weighs 3.84 pounds and measures 19.25 x 14.5 x 13.25 inches.
The Forney 377 Welder kit is best for you if you are looking for an all-in-one helmet with all the welding accessories. With this kit, you won’t need to buy anything extra. It comes with split leather gloves for welding, a chipping hammer with a straight head, and a wire scratch steel brush. It is incredible how this kit comes with all these items, yet it is priced more reasonably than any helmet on this guide. Its pricing can be attributed to the fact that it doesn’t have advanced features such as sensors, precise lens technology, sensitivity adjusters, and so forth.
One thing we appreciate about this helmet is the fact that it doesn’t require manual adjustments. It doesn’t have any electrical parts, so a battery is not required. With this helmet, you won’t be running up and down to the nearest shop for batteries or lens replacements. It is made of a dark lens that always stays dark during welding. This feature might be an advantage and also a disadvantage. For starters, you do not have to worry about delays common with electrical helmets. Your eyes will always be protected. However, you will not be seeing your workstation clearly as the lens doesn’t change its shade automatically.
More features: auto-darkening, solar-powered, comfortable headgear, compatible with a cheater lens
TOOLIOM is another excellent option for beginners who want to start welding. It is suitable for TIG, MMA, and MIG applications. This helmet is a good choice if you are a beginner as it offers much value for the money. It is a high-quality product built to last and comes with a warranty if anything goes wrong. This TOOLIOM model weighs 2.2 pounds and measures 13.15 x 9.72 x 7.87 inches.
The TL-21600A model is a predecessor of the TL-21800F model. Despite being an older model, it has a state-of-the-art build and many useful features for beginners. The two models have similar specifications. They both have a switching time of 1/10000 seconds and 1/1/1/2 optical class for starters. However, model TL-21800F has a broader viewing area of 3.94”*3.67 inches (100*93 mm), unlike its predecessor’s 3.64 x 1.67 inches. It is also equipped with four premium sensors, two more than the TL-21600A model. The newer helmet also has DIN5~9/9~13 dark shade, which is superior to the former’s DIN9~13.
Nonetheless, the TL-21600A model is a must-buy for anyone who wants to learn to weld seamlessly. It is lightweight and easy to set up. You don’t have to worry about adjusting the height, sensors, and so forth. All this information is captured in the manual. Its butterfly-style sweat-absorbing designs make the helmet breathable and comfortable to wear even for an extended period. If you have eye defects, the cheater lens feature has covered you. Its lenses are made from heat-resistant polycarbonates that meet the ANSI regulations.
More features: auto-darkening, solar-powered, improved optics for 1/2/1/3 denomination
This welding helmet from Instapark is explicitly designed for beginners. It is very lightweight at only 1.63 pounds and measures 9 x 9 x 12.75 inches. The helmet is made of high-impact plastic that is durable and scratch-resistant. You can use this equipment for MIG, TIG, stick welding, and grinding.
The Instapark model is ideal for people who want to start welding using a compact, lightweight helmet. It is affordable and does not come with many extras. If you are new to welding, this is the perfect choice for you as it has a simple design that allows you to focus more on learning rather than worrying about technicalities. This equipment is also suitable for both indoors and outdoors. It is made of a high-quality material that protects your eyes from harmful UV rays. Its outer skeleton is also UV rays resistant and will not fade or become brittle when exposed to sunlight.
What we appreciated about this helmet is that it is very light. It is made of durable plastic, making it easy to clean and maintain. Wearing such a lightweight helmet will be comfortable as you learn welding for hours. For the best learning experience, the equipment is designed so that it doesn’t obstruct your view when you are working. This feature makes it easier for you to see what you are doing. Its lenses will only become dark when the arc is active. You can even adjust the shading to fit your eye specifications and the clarity you need. This helmet’s other notable features include a switching time of 1/25000 seconds, a low voltage indicator, two arc sensors, and a solar cell for power supply.
More features: passive filter, straightforward internal settings, two premium redundant arc sensors, Interference Suppression Technologies
Last on our list of the best welding helmets for beginners is the Antra True Color Auto-darkening Welding Helmet. This equipment weighs 1 pound and is compact. It comes with 6 + 1 extra lens covers that can handle any kind of welding, grinding, and cutting.
If you are looking for a welding helmet that is easy to use and is frustration-free certified, then this one is worth considering. Antra, a certified manufacturer, made this helmet. The manufacturer designed this tool to offer maximum comfort while protecting your eyes from harmful UV radiation. It is equipped with two variable intensity sensors that automatically adjust to the surrounding environment’s brightness. The helmet also has a wide field of vision that helps you see what you’re welding clearly.
When it comes to safety, this helmet has an auto-darkening feature that keeps the lens clear, so you don’t have to worry about getting burned by the intense glare of the welding arc. In addition, the helmet’s passive UV/IR filter combined with a double-layered automatic dimming LCD shutter will provide you with added safety. Another great thing about this product is that it comes with an anti-fog coating. Hence, there won’t be any fogging up of the lens when you wear it. It also has a high level of durability. It is made of strong ABS plastic that is flexible enough to withstand daily wear and tear. Its full neck covering ensures that spatters and harmful radiation from welding doesn’t reflect or enter the helmet.
Do you need a welding helmet Trusted Source The History of Welding | MillerWelds Welding can trace its historic development back to ancient times. The earliest examples of welding come from the Bronze Age. Small gold circular boxes were made by pressure welding lap joints together. It is estimated that these boxes were made more than 2,000 years ago. During the Iron Age the Egyptians and people in the eastern Mediterranean area learned to weld pieces of iron together. Many tools were found that were made in approximately 1000 B.C. www.millerwelds.com ? Can’t you just weld without this equipment? Well, here are some of the reasons why this tool is inevitable in any kind of welding.
During welding, the heat generated can cause severe damage to your eyes. It can lead to burns and other severe defects. A welding helmet protects your eyes from these hazards. It prevents heat and sparks from entering your eyes or coming into contact with your face.
Welders who do not wear a welding helmet may suffer from eye disorders Trusted Source Pattern of eye diseases among welders in a Nigeria community Two hundred and seventy five (67.9%) of the respondents were arc welders, 99(22.5%) were gas welders while 39(9.6%) utilized both welding techniques. The age of the respondents ranged from 16 years to 80 years with a mean of 38 ± 13 years. Conjunctival degenerative disorders like pingueculum (50.1%) and pterygium(17.5%) constituted the commonest eye disorders among the welders. There were 6 blind eyes of 5 welders with pigmentary maculopathy accounting for the single case of bilateral blindness. There is a greater odd in developing pingueculum and Pterygium (OR=1.015, 1.039 respectively) in arc welders than in gas welders. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov . These include corneal abrasions, cataracts, retinal tears, and even blindness. When working without wearing a helmet, you should take precautions such as using goggles instead.
UV rays are known to increase the risk of skin cancer Trusted Source How does the sun and UV cause cancer? | Cancer Research UK Too much UV radiation from the sun and sunbeds can damage DNA in your skin cells and cause skin cancer. Getting sunburnt increases your cancer risk. www.cancerresearchuk.org . If you spend long hours at a welding station, the chances are that you might get exposed to harmful UV radiation. By wearing a welding helmet, you reduce exposure to these dangerous rays.
Hearing loss caused by loud noises is a common problem among welders. They often complain about hearing loss after they’ve been doing their job for some time. Over time, prolonged exposure to loud sounds can result in permanent hearing impairment. Welding helmets help prevent this issue as they come with ear protection. When grinding or cutting metals, you won’t be negatively affected.
Metal shavings could fly off the tip of the welding rod and hit you on the face. The best way to avoid this hazard is to wear a welding helmet.
If you’re a welder who spends most of his time outdoors, then you know how much your hair suffers from the harsh weather conditions. Exposure to UV and IR radiation, sunlight, wind, dust, humidity, and welding sparks can contribute to premature greying and baldness. A well-fitting welding helmet helps shield your hair from these elements.
Now that you know why you need a helmet, it’s time to pop into physical or online stores and get one for yourself. So, which features should you emphasize? Well, here are the essential factors to consider when purchasing a helmet.
You don’t want to buy one and then discover later that it has a small viewing area that doesn’t fit your specifications. Make sure that the viewing area is large enough to see what’s going on around you. A large viewing area is also beneficial for you as a novice as you will learn quickly without straining. Our guide’s best helmet with the largest viewing area is the YESWELDER Large Viewing Screen Welding Helmet. This equipment will make your learning experience simple and easy for you to get used to being in a helmet.
Do you know how distorted images look in a liquid such as water? Well, optical class is just a number representing the level of distortion when looking through your helmet.
A status of 1 means no distortion, and a 3 is like almost looking through water.
Hence, it would be best to go for the helmet that has a lower class. In our case, this is the TOOLIOM TL-21600A Welding Helmet which has a 1/1/1/2 optical class. You will always see clear images through this equipment.
Another factor that you should consider is the switching time. The least the switching time, the better your equipment will be. A helmet that switches from a clear screen to a dark one in less time offers you the best eye protection. For this, we recommend the DEKOPRO Welding Helmet covered above. This equipment can switch to darkness in less than 1/25000 seconds. What’s more, it stays dark until the arc goes off.
Arc sensors record emitted radiation and pass it to the helmet mini-processor to calculate the best shade. Our choice is the best helmet with top and non-arc sensors, YESWELDER Large Viewing Screen Welding Helmet. It is equipped with four premium sensors that will actively and accurately detect arc for the perfect auto-darkening.
A dark shade is what prevents heat and light from entering your eyes. For a helmet to be safe, it must have a dark coloring that protects your eyes. For beginners, we recommend choosing a helmet with an adjustable dark shade.
This feature will ensure you select the most suitable shade for clarity and protection during welding.
The best helmet with an adjustable dark shade is the TOOLIOM Blue Eagle Welding Helmet covered above.
As a beginner, go for the helmet that offers you an accurate color view. This feature will simplify your learning experience since you will see what you are welding. For this, we recommend the YESWELDER True Color Solar Powered Auto-darkening Welding Helmet covered above.
The last factors you need to consider are size and weight. You do not want to have a big bulky helmet as a beginner. You need one that is light and compact. Such equipment can be worn for a long time without straining your head or neck. They are also easy to store and use. In our case, the most compact and lightweight model is the Antra True Color Auto-darkening Welding Helmet which measures 12 x 8 x 7 inches and weighs only 1 pound.
Welding is a skill that takes years of practice and dedication, but it can be learned in no time at all with the right equipment. The most important part of your welding gear is the helmet. It’s what protects your eyes from sparks, molten metal, and other hazards while you work. The helmets we have covered above are novice-friendly and effectively protect you from all those hazards.
Our Editors Pick, the YESWELDER True Color Solar Powered Auto-darkening Welding Helmet offers outstanding performance, clarity, and eye protection. It is powered by solar hence you do not have to worry about changing batteries now and then. Our Premium Pick, the Lincoln Electric K3419-1 Helmet, is arguably the best welding helmet for beginners. It is versatile equipment that can be used for almost all types of welding and grinding. It features an adjustable ratchet headband and an oversize sweatband, which offer improved comfort.
The helmet that offers you the Best Value for money is TOOLIOM Blue Eagle Welding Helmet. It is affordable but packed with lots of helpful novice features. It has an adjustable shade range, auto-darkening shade range of DIN4/9~13, and can even be used in industries.
