15 Best Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets Under $100 – Guide

Auto‑darkening helmets have become the standard for most welders. Not having to flip your hood up and down makes your welds more accurate and your neck less sore. The problem is that many cheap helmets under $100 can feel flimsy, react slowly, or give you a dark, green, blurry view.

This guide walks through some of the best‑reviewed auto‑darkening welding helmets that normally sit under $100, plus one classic passive hood as a benchmark. We’ll look at clarity, shade range, comfort, and real‑world limitations, then finish with simple recommendations so you can pick the right budget helmet for your work.

Short Answer: Best auto-darkening welding helmet under $100
For most welders, a true‑color, 4‑sensor helmet with a viewing area around 3.9″×3.6″ and a shade range of 4/5–13 is the sweet spot. Models like the YESWELDER LYG‑M800H, Sunstac large‑view and MIGVAN large‑view hit this balance well, offering clear optics, reliable switching and a comfortable window size while staying close to or under $100.

15 Cheap Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets (Under $100)

1. VILSIN Auto‑Darkening Welding Helmet – Compact True‑Color Budget Pick

Why it stands out
This VILSIN helmet gives you true‑color optics and a decent shade range in a compact shell that suits smaller workspaces and lighter‑duty welding, all at a wallet‑friendly price.

Key points

• Viewing area: approx. 3.78″ × 1.58″ window
• Optical class: 1/1/1/2 with 2 arc sensors
• Shade range: light DIN 4, dark DIN 5–9 / 9–13
• Switching speed around 0.06 ms
• Dual power: solar plus replaceable battery
• Typically priced well under $100

Pros

• True‑color view is clearer than old green lenses
• Lightweight shell is comfortable for longer sessions
• Shade range covers grinding, light TIG, MIG and Stick
• Simple controls, easy for beginners to set up

Cons

• Narrow viewing window compared with large‑screen helmets
• Only two sensors – can be less reliable in very awkward angles
• Plastic headgear is basic and may wear sooner with daily pro use

Best for
Hobbyists, DIYers and small‑shop welders who want a compact, true‑color auto‑darkening helmet that handles most everyday jobs without breaking the $100 mark.

2. YESWELDER LYG‑30800H – Auto‑Darkening Helmet with Fan and Light

Why it stands out
This YESWELDER model stands out by adding a rechargeable fan and light to a full‑size true‑color ADF, helping keep your face cooler and your work area more visible.

Key points

• Viewing area: about 3.93″ × 3.66″ large screen
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 true color
• 4 arc sensors for reliable detection
• Built‑in fan and LED light (rechargeable)
• Shade range around 3/5–9/9–13 (multi‑mode)
• Usually hovers around $100; can spike slightly above

Pros

• Large, clear view is excellent for detailed work
• Fan helps reduce fogging and heat build‑up under the hood
• LED light is handy in dark corners and garages
• Four sensors track the arc well in out‑of‑position welding

Cons

• More complex features mean more things to charge and maintain
• A bit heavier and bulkier than basic budget helmets
• Price can occasionally creep just over $100 depending on sales

Best for
Intermediate users and frequent hobby welders who want a comfort‑focused, full‑feature helmet for longer sessions and mixed TIG/MIG/Stick work on a modest budget.

3. Sunstac Large‑View True‑Color Helmet – High‑Clarity Budget All‑Rounder

Why it stands out
Sunstac combines a very large, crystal‑clear viewing area with four sensors and a wide shade range, making it one of the more capable under $100 helmets for people who value visibility.

Key points

• Viewing area: approx. 3.94″ × 3.27″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 with true‑color technology
• 4 arc sensors for better coverage
• Shade range: DIN 4/5–9/9–13
• Designed for Stick, MIG, TIG and cutting
• Typically in the sub‑$100 bracket with strong reviews

Pros

• Big window helps you see joints and surroundings clearly
• True‑color optics reduce eye strain and improve puddle detail
• Four sensors reduce the risk of flashing in odd positions
• Wide shade range makes it flexible for thin and thick materials

Cons

• Larger shell can feel bulky in very tight spaces
• Headgear is decent but not on par with premium brands
• Not designed for heavy, all‑day industrial abuse

Best for
Beginners and intermediate welders wanting a clear, wide view for mixed process work in a home shop, farm, or light‑industrial environment without overspending.

4. MIGVAN Large‑View True‑Color Helmet – Big Screen, Solar + Rechargeable

Why it stands out
MIGVAN focuses on combining a generous viewing area and true‑color lens with a power system that uses both solar and a rechargeable battery, reducing the chance of the helmet dying mid‑job.

Key points

• Viewing area: around 3.9″ × 3.6″ (large screen)
• True‑color lens with high optical clarity
• 4 arc sensors, 1/10,000 s switching speed
• Shade range: about DIN 4/5–13
• Solar‑assisted with rechargeable lithium battery
• Commonly priced under $100 with very positive ratings

Pros

• Wide, bright view is easy to weld with for long periods
• Four sensors track the arc well even when partially blocked
• Solar + rechargeable battery extends run time and reliability
• Works well across TIG, MIG, Stick, cutting and grinding

Cons

• Shell is on the larger side, not ideal for very cramped work
• Slightly heavier than minimal budget helmets
• Requires occasional charging and care of the battery

Best for
Small‑shop and serious hobby welders who want a versatile, large‑screen helmet with strong optics and don’t mind a bit of extra weight for the added features.

5. ANDELI Panoramic 180° Helmet – Wide‑Angle View with LEDs (Often Above $100)

Why it stands out
The ANDELI helmet offers a 180°‑style panoramic view with true‑color optics and built‑in LEDs, giving a wraparound feel closer to high‑end hoods. Its price often sits near or slightly above $100, so watch pricing carefully.

Key points

• Main viewing area around 3.94″ × 3.74″ plus side panels
• Panoramic 180°‑style design
• 4–6 arc sensors (model‑dependent), very fast switching
• True‑color optics and wide shade range (around 4/5–13)
• Type‑C or similar rechargeable power plus solar assist
• Price can sometimes exceed $100 depending on seller

Pros

• Extremely wide field of view, great for complex welds
• True‑color lens and fast sensors help with precise work
• Integrated lights help in dark shops and corners
• Modern styling and lots of features for the cost

Cons

• Often pushes or exceeds the $100 mark
• Larger, heavier shell than simple budget helmets
• Extra electronics mean more potential long‑term failure points

Best for
Welders who want a panoramic, feature‑rich helmet and are okay if the price occasionally sits a bit above $100; best suited to frequent users rather than occasional weld‑once‑a‑month DIYers.

6. YESWELDER LYG‑M800H – Best Large‑View Budget Helmet

Why it stands out
The LYG‑M800H frequently shows up on best budget helmet lists because it combines a large, clear view, four sensors and a broad shade range at a price that usually stays under $100.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.93″ × 3.66″ large screen
• True‑color 1/1/1/1 or close optical rating
• 4 arc sensors, quick switching
• Shade range: typically 3/5–9/9–13, with grind mode
• Solar cell plus CR2450 battery (long life)
• Frequently below $100, sometimes on sale even cheaper

Pros

• Excellent field of view for a budget helmet
• Clear, bright optics make puddle control easier
• 4 sensors help prevent flashing in awkward positions
• Good for TIG, MIG, Stick and grinding in one hood

Cons

• Headgear is acceptable but can feel cheap for daily pro use
• Shell is medium‑large; not ideal inside very tight tanks or pipe
• Quality control can vary slightly between batches

Best for
Most home and small‑shop welders looking for a proven one and done budget auto‑darkening helmet that works well for almost any common process.

7. LIMXYZ 3.94″×3.15″ Helmet – Compact Large‑View True‑Color Hood

Why it stands out
This LIMXYZ helmet offers a good compromise between a large viewing area and a slightly more compact shell, with high‑definition optics and four sensors at a low price.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.94″ × 3.15″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/2 true‑color
• 4 arc sensors
• Shade range: typically DIN 5–8 / 9–13 plus grind
• Solar‑powered with backup battery
• Often well under $100 with solid user ratings

Pros

• Bright, natural‑color view of the weld puddle
• Good sensor coverage for out‑of‑position welding
• Shell isn’t as bulky as some extra‑wide helmets
• Great value for the feature set

Cons

• Slightly smaller window than the very largest models
• Headgear is basic and may need replacing for heavy use
• Not aimed at high‑amp industrial or code welding

Best for
Budget‑conscious welders who want true‑color, four sensors and a decent window without paying for a top‑brand name.

8. VORITO Large‑View Helmet – 1/1/1/1 Optics with 4 Sensors

Why it stands out
VORITO targets high optical quality at a low price, giving you 1/1/1/1 clarity and quick, 1/30,000 s response for a helmet that still usually falls under $100.

Key points

• Viewing area: around 3.94″ × 1.9–2.0″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1
• 4 arc sensors, 1/30,000 s switching
• Shade range: DIN 4/5–13 for weld, cut, grind
• Dual power: solar + battery
• Commonly sold under $100

Pros

• Very high optical rating for this price bracket
• Fast switching time protects eyes from arc flash
• 4 sensors handle various positions and obstructions well
• Good all‑round shade range for TIG/MIG/Stick

Cons

• Window is wide but not as tall as some competitors
• Shell design is fairly generic, nothing fancy
• Headgear comfort is adequate but not premium

Best for
Welders who prioritize lens quality and fast reaction over having the absolute largest screen and want a solid all‑rounder under $100.

9. YESWELDER Blue‑Light‑Blocking Helmet (3.64″×1.67″) – Compact Eye‑Friendly Option

Why it stands out
This YESWELDER uses a blue‑light‑blocking outer lens to filter out harsh parts of the spectrum, giving a softer, more comfortable view during long shifts or frequent tacking.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.64″ × 1.67″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 true‑color
• 2 arc sensors
• Shade range: approx. 3.5/9–13
• Power: solar with internal battery
• Usually comfortably under $100

Pros

• Very clear, low‑distortion view
• Blue‑light‑blocking design aims to reduce fatigue
• Lightweight, compact shell suits smaller workspaces
• Simple adjustments and controls

Cons

• Only two sensors; can be less reliable in extreme out‑of‑position work
• Smaller viewing window than large‑screen helmets
• Not ideal for heavy industrial or overhead slag‑fall environments

Best for
DIYers, light‑duty welders and beginners who want a smaller, comfortable helmet with excellent clarity and eye comfort.

10. Jackson Safety HSL‑100 Passive Helmet – Rugged Benchmark Hood

Why it stands out
Although not auto‑darkening, the HSL‑100 is a benchmark helmet: narrow shell, tough construction, and great for tight spaces. It’s useful as a reference point if you’re comparing passive helmet vs budget ADF hoods.

Key points

• Lens: 4.5″ × 5.25″ fixed shade 10
• Narrow shell design for tight‑space welding
• Material: ABS/polycarbonate blend
• ANSI Z87.1, CSA, CE certified
• Often under $100 depending on supplier

Pros

• Very rugged and simple – almost nothing to break
• Great for overhead and tight access thanks to narrow shell
• Works with a variety of lenses, including auto‑darkening 4.5″×5.25″ filters
• No batteries or electronics to fail

Cons

• Not auto‑darkening out of the box
• Constant nodding or flipping to start/stop welds
• Fixed shade 10 may not suit all processes or amps

Best for
Welders who prefer a tough passive hood or want a reliable shell they can later pair with a separate auto‑darkening cartridge.

11. YESWELDER Blue‑Light‑Blocking (Wide‑View Variant) – Larger Screen Version

Why it stands out
This listing typically refers to the same core blue‑light‑blocking technology but in versions that may include side windows or slightly larger viewing areas, improving situational awareness.

Key points

• Main viewing area around 3.9″ × 3.2–3.6″ depending on variant
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 true‑color
• Usually 2 arc sensors on the main cartridge
• Shade range: approx. 3.5/9–13
• Some variants add side‑view windows (non‑ADF)
• Generally under $100 with very high review counts

Pros

• Combines blue‑light filtering with a more generous field of view
• Clear optics and comfortable visual tone
• Good for TIG, MIG and Stick in general shop work
• Great value given the feature set and ratings

Cons

• Fewer sensors than some 4‑sensor large‑view competitors
• Side windows are not auto‑darkening; can be distracting for some
• Fit and features can vary slightly between sub‑models

Best for
Users who like the YESWELDER blue‑light concept but want more peripheral vision for bench, fab and general repair work.

12. Omolith 3.64″×1.67″ Helmet – True‑Color with Optional Light

Why it stands out
Omolith focuses on high optical quality, adding a 1/1/1/1 lens and optional integrated light in a compact shell that stays under $100.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.64″ × 1.67″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 true‑color
• 2 arc sensors, fast switching
• Shade range roughly 4/9–13
• Solar + lithium battery power
• Usually under $100 with good user feedback

Pros

• Very clear, sharp view for the price
• Optional light helps when working in dim corners
• Small, light shell is comfortable and maneuverable
• Easy to store and carry for mobile welders

Cons

• Smaller viewing window than large‑screen options
• Only two sensors – care needed in heavily obstructed positions
• Light is another component that can fail long‑term

Best for
Mobile welders, hobbyists and small‑shop users who want a compact, clear helmet with a bit of extra lighting help, rather than a huge face‑covering shell.

13. TOOLIOM TL‑8500‑Style Helmet – Compact True‑Color Budget Workhorse

Why it stands out
This TOOLIOM model is one of the better‑reviewed classic layout budget helmets, pairing a small‑to‑medium window with excellent optical clarity and quick reaction time.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.64″ × 1.67″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/1 true‑color
• 2 arc sensors, 1/25,000 s switching
• Shade range: DIN 4/9–13
• Weight: about 18.3 oz (lightweight)
• Regularly under $100 with thousands of ratings

Pros

• Very light and comfortable for long use
• Clear lens makes it easy to see joint and puddle
• Shade range covers most hobby/repair applications
• Great price‑to‑performance ratio

Cons

• Only two sensors – not ideal for very complex angles
• Small view compared with panoramic helmets
• Headgear is basic plastic, may loosen over time

Best for
Beginners and budget‑minded welders who want a trustworthy, light helmet for learning TIG/MIG/Stick without overspending.

14. VILSIN K23‑5022‑LY – Large‑View True‑Color Helmet

Why it stands out
Compared with VILSIN’s smallest helmets, this large‑view version offers a bit more horizontal space while keeping the same 1/1/1/2 rated lens and budget‑friendly pricing.

Key points

• Viewing area: 3.78″ × 1.58″
• Optical class: 1/1/1/2
• 2 arc sensors
• Shade range: light DIN 3–4, dark 5–9 / 9–13
• Solar and battery powered
• Usually under $100 with strong reviews

Pros

• True‑color optics for comfortable vision
• Slightly larger window than many entry‑level helmets
• Good all‑round shade range for TIG/MIG/Stick
• Reasonable weight and balance for longer welds

Cons

• Still not as large a view as full panoramic models
• Only two sensors limit extreme‑position reliability
• Generic headgear is functional but unremarkable

Best for
Users who like VILSIN’s value but want a bit more viewing space than the smallest helmets offer, while staying within a tight budget.

15. TOOLIOM Large‑View with Light – Big Screen, True‑Color, Rechargeable

Why it stands out
This TOOLIOM is one of the largest‑view helmets in the budget range, adding side windows and LED lighting to a 4.31″×3.81″ true‑color screen while usually sticking close to the $100 line.

Key points

• Main viewing area: 4.31″ × 3.81″ (≈16.4 sq in)
• True‑color optics with high optical class
• Side windows (non‑auto‑darkening) for peripheral vision
• Shade range: approx. 4/5–9/9–13
• Solar plus rechargeable battery power
• Often near but generally under $100, depending on sales

Pros

• Very large main view improves comfort and accuracy
• Extra side vision for better awareness in the shop
• Integrated light is helpful in dark corners
• Flexible shade range for most processes and thicknesses

Cons

• Bigger and heavier than compact budget helmets
• Side windows can be distracting or let in more glare for some users
• More electronics and moving parts than basic shells

Best for
Regular welders who want maximum visibility and a feature‑rich helmet without stepping into premium price territory, and who mainly weld in reasonably open spaces.

How to Choose the Best Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets Under $100

Choosing a good auto-darkening welding helmet under $100 is about focusing on the features that actually affect safety, visibility, and comfort, rather than paying for brand names or extras you may not need. Many budget helmets today perform surprisingly well if you know what to look for. you can find best welding helmets in my guide.

Lens clarity and viewing area

Start with optical clarity. Look for helmets that advertise true color or high-definition lenses, as these make the weld puddle, edges, and heat zone easier to see. A larger viewing window is helpful for MIG and flux-core welding or when working in awkward positions, while a standard window is usually enough for stick welding and basic shop work. Under $100, prioritize clarity over size if you have to choose.

Shade range and adjustment

A good budget helmet should offer a variable shade range, usually between shade 9 and 13. This covers most stick, MIG, and TIG welding tasks. Make sure the helmet has external or easy-to-reach controls for shade, sensitivity, and delay. Being able to fine-tune how fast the lens darkens and how long it stays dark improves comfort and reduces eye strain during long sessions.

Number of arc sensors

More sensors generally mean better arc detection, especially when welding out of position or in tight spaces. Helmets with four sensors perform more consistently than two-sensor models, but some well-designed two-sensor helmets still work reliably for flat and horizontal welding. If you often weld overhead or around obstacles, prioritize models with four sensors.

Power source and reliability

Under $100, most helmets are solar-assisted with replaceable batteries or rechargeable lithium batteries. Solar plus replaceable batteries is often the safest choice long term, since you are not dependent on charging ports or internal cells that may fail over time. Check that the helmet reliably darkens instantly every time the arc starts.

Comfort, weight, and headgear

Comfort matters more than many beginners expect. A lighter helmet reduces neck fatigue, especially if you weld for long periods. Adjustable headgear with multiple contact points helps balance the helmet and keeps it from slipping when you nod it down. Even budget helmets can be comfortable if the headgear is well designed.

Grind mode and versatility

A dedicated grind mode is very useful, allowing you to switch the lens to a light shade for grinding or prep work without removing the helmet. This feature is common even in affordable models and adds real convenience in a shop or garage setting.

Safety standards and real-world use

Make sure the helmet meets basic safety standards and provides full UV and IR protection at all times, even when the lens is not darkened. Almost all modern auto-darkening helmets do this, but it is still worth confirming. For under $100, these helmets are best suited for hobbyists, DIY users, farm repairs, and light professional work rather than extreme industrial environments.

By focusing on lens clarity, reliable darkening, adequate sensors, and comfort, you can find an auto-darkening welding helmet under $100 that performs well for everyday welding and offers excellent value without sacrificing safety.

Key Factors That Define the Best Auto‑Darkening Welding Helmets Under $100

When you’re shopping in the sub‑$100 range, focus on:

• Optical clarity & true color
  • Look for lenses rated 1/1/1/1 or 1/1/1/2 where possible.
  • True‑color or HD lenses give a more natural view than old green filters and reduce eye strain.
• Viewing area
  • Small windows (≈3.6″×1.7″) like on TOOLIOM TL‑8500 and YESWELDER compact are lighter and cheaper.
  • Large windows (around 3.9″×3.6″ and up) like YESWELDER LYG‑M800H, Sunstac, MIGVAN, and TOOLIOM 4.31″×3.81″ give better visibility but add size and weight.
• Number of sensors
  • 2 sensors: fine for bench and straightforward positions.
  • 4 sensors: better in awkward angles, pipe corners and when part of the arc is blocked (Sunstac, MIGVAN, VORITO, some TOOLIOM models).
• Shade range & modes
  • A typical good range is DIN 4/5–13 with grind mode.
  • Ensure it covers the amperages you actually use (low‑amp TIG vs heavy Stick).
• Power system
  • Solar + replaceable battery is ideal; pure solar can be okay but check reviews for reliability.
  • Rechargeable systems (MIGVAN, TOOLIOM, ANDELI) add convenience but need charging.
• Comfort & weight
  • Under a kilo (~2.2 lb) is usually fine; very light helmets feel better for long days.
  • Headgear quality matters more than many beginners think; budget straps may need upgrading.
• Build quality & use case
  • Budget helmets are generally fine for home, farm and light fab.
  • For heavy industrial, long‑term daily use, consider budget helmets as backups rather than primary PPE.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a Budget Auto‑Darkening Helmet

• Chasing the lowest price only
  • Ultra‑cheap unbranded helmets can have slow switching, inconsistent sensors or poor optics that strain your eyes.
• Ignoring optical class
  • A big screen with poor clarity is worse than a smaller, sharp lens. Look at optical ratings and user comments on clarity, not just size.
• Overlooking number and placement of sensors
  • For out‑of‑position work, 4 sensors are noticeably more forgiving than 2, especially on big, awkward parts.
• Buying a huge panoramic helmet for tight spaces
  • Panoramic designs like some ANDELI/TOOLIOM models are great in open shops but can be annoying inside pipe racks, tanks, or tight machinery.
• Not considering your main process and amps
  • If you weld low‑amp TIG a lot, ensure the helmet is stable at low currents and has a shade range that goes low enough.
  • If you mainly run heavy Stick, make sure it can handle higher shades and feels robust.
• Forgetting about headgear
  • Uncomfortable headgear leads to headaches and constant re‑adjusting. Sometimes upgrading straps is almost as important as the lens itself.

Long‑Term Use and Eye Safety Considerations

• Fast switching time
  • Look for switching speeds in the 1/10,000–1/30,000 s range. The faster it goes from light to dark, the less chance of eye discomfort.
• Consistent UV/IR protection
  • Even if the auto‑darkening fails, quality helmets still block UV/IR at a fixed safe level (usually up to DIN 16). This is essential for long‑term eye health.
• Regular inspection and maintenance
  • Replace front and inner cover lenses when scratched or pitted.
  • Check and tighten headgear, and clean sweat bands and padding.
• Battery health
  • For solar‑assist models, store the helmet where it occasionally sees light to keep the cells topped up.
  • For rechargeable units, don’t run batteries to absolute zero repeatedly.
• Know your limits
  • Budget helmets like the ones in this list are fine for hobby and light‑to‑moderate pro use, but for high‑amp, all‑day industrial work, a higher‑end helmet can be a better long‑term investment for your eyes and neck.

FAQs

Are budget auto‑darkening welding helmets under $100 safe?

Yes, as long as they meet basic standards and have proper UV/IR protection, they can be safe for hobby and light‑industrial use. Look for good user reviews, clear optics and a reputable brand. Avoid unbranded ultra‑cheap models with little feedback.

Is a larger viewing area always better?

A larger window (like on YESWELDER LYG‑M800H, Sunstac, MIGVAN, TOOLIOM 4.31″×3.81″) is more comfortable for long welds and complex joints. However, larger shells can feel bulkier and may not fit into tight spaces as easily as compact helmets.

How many sensors do I really need?

For bench work and simple positions, two sensors are usually fine. If you do a lot of out‑of‑position work, tight corners or pipe, a helmet with four sensors gives more reliable triggering and fewer flashes.

Can I use these helmets for TIG?

Many of these helmets are advertised as TIG‑capable, but performance at very low amps can vary. If your TIG work is mostly mid‑to‑high amperage, you’ll be fine; for ultra‑low‑amp precision TIG, consider models with strong TIG reviews or a more specialized helmet.

How long should an auto‑darkening helmet last?

With reasonable care, changing cover lenses, not dropping the hood, and keeping the power system healthy, a decent budget helmet can last several years in hobby use. For heavy daily professional work, expect faster wear on headgear and possibly batteries.

Conclusion – Which Budget Helmet Should You Choose?

If you want the best all‑round value under $100, it’s hard to go wrong with:

• YESWELDER LYG‑M800H – Large, clear view and 4 sensors, excellent for most processes.
• Sunstac Large‑View Helmet – Great optics and big screen, ideal for mixed Stick/MIG/TIG in home or small‑shop settings.
• MIGVAN Large‑View True‑Color – Big window, 4 sensors, and solar + rechargeable power for frequent users.

If you prefer a lighter, more compact budget helmet, look at:

• TOOLIOM TL‑8500‑style or Omolith – Small‑to‑medium window, excellent clarity, very light shells.
• YESWELDER Blue‑Light‑Blocking compact – Gentle on the eyes, good for shorter, frequent jobs.

If maximum screen size and features appeal to you and you’re okay sitting near the top of the budget:

• TOOLIOM 4.31″×3.81″ with Light or the ANDELI panoramic are strong choices, especially for shop work in more open spaces.

Think about where and how you weld, tight spaces vs open benches, occasional repairs vs weekly projects, low‑amp TIG vs heavier Stick, and choose a helmet whose optics, sensor count and size match that reality. That way your under‑$100 helmet feels like a smart investment, not just the cheapest option on the page.