Buying a low-price chameleon welding helmet

Rating table

* Prices are for August 2022

Main characteristics

During work, a specialist faces a large number of dangers and risks:

• Hot metal particles may come into contact with it.
• Hazardous thermal radiation.
• Optical radiation.
• Harmful substances and gases.

Therefore, masks are made of material that reliably protects the user from the listed aspects and from a number of thermal factors. The light filter located in the mask protects the user from optical radiation. The instructions also provide for the use of a respirator, which will prevent welding gases and harmful substances emitted by certain materials from being absorbed during work.

We will also list several more significant characteristics of welding helmets, namely automatic adjustment of the color of the glasses (including their darkening), turning off the filter, comfortable fixation on the head, ventilation system and respirator function, protection from external influences and mechanical damage.

How to choose a welding helmet

The main structural element of a welding helmet is a protective light filter. Its main purpose is to filter out light spectra harmful to vision. There are several types of filters used in welding helmets:

• Darkened - such filters are used in classic masks of an outdated type. The filter is made of glass with the addition of non-ferrous metals, in particular copper or nickel. This will reduce the level of light transmittance. The degree of darkening is marked both according to the Domestic system (C4 - C8) and the European system (9-13 DIN).
• Polymer darkened filters. Their characteristics are superior to glass ones. These are lighter, fairly durable, inexpensive models in terms of darkness and protection, comparable to glass filters.
• Chameleon is a light filter with automatic dimming. It can adapt to any welding method and power. When an arc occurs, the filter automatically darkens, and when it disappears, it brightens. Thanks to this, the master can wear a mask at all times. This is the main advantage of chameleons, significantly differentiating them from classic models. The latter must be removed or raised from time to time.

Chameleon masks with a liquid crystal screen are currently the most popular. The degree of darkness can be adjusted automatically or manually. To do this, the operator must turn the switch. These masks have many advantages:

• Soft fastening system;
• Lightweight heat-resistant case;
• Various designs;
• Quick and smooth adjustment of the degree of darkness.

The main disadvantage of such models is their high cost. In addition, crystals may not work well at low temperatures.

Which welding mask is best to buy?

There are simple masks (with a darkening filter of varying intensity) and “chameleon” masks (with automatic dimming). The latter are more convenient and safer, but they only work when the outside temperature is not lower than -5 degrees.

• For one-time work in a garage or country house, the cheapest model with a regular glass filter and a viewing window measuring 90x40 mm is sufficient.
• To weld sewer or water pipes, you need the same simple model, but with an enlarged viewing window 100-110 mm in length and 45-50 mm in height.
• When welding stainless steel, it is better to choose chameleon masks.

If work is performed in hazardous conditions, a model with additional ventilation will be required. It is selected according to the type of metal and working conditions.

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Criterias of choice

Before buying a welding helmet, pay attention to its technical parameters:

• Size of viewing window;
• Darkening degree;
• Chameleon response speed;
• Type of food;
• Material of manufacture;
• Self-test function.

The size of the viewing window directly determines visibility. For most models, this figure varies from 90x32 to 110x93 mm. The most popular masks are those with a window of 96×47 or 98×43 mm. Devices with a large window are called panoramic.

For cheap classic masks, the degree of darkness is indicated in units, ranging from 2 to 5. Models with maximum darkness can be used outdoors. It will not be possible to work indoors in them, since it will be difficult to see what is happening. For work in dark conditions, masks with a protective element marked 2 are used.

For chameleons, the degree of darkening is indicated in the range, for example, 5-13 DIN. The larger the specified range, the wider the list of tasks to be solved. So, for manual arc welding with a current of 100-125 A, the light transmission level should be 9-10 DIN. When igniting the arc, it should be higher - up to 13 DIN.

The response speed indicates how quickly the mask reacts. The transition to the dark state usually takes no more than 0.0001 seconds. Return to the enlightened state – 0.2-0.8 seconds. It is worth noting that in low temperature conditions the response speed may increase.

A classic welding helmet with a glass filter does not require a power source. It is only necessary for chameleons to operate the sensors and LCD screen. Welding helmets are usually powered by a battery, which requires periodic replacement, or a solar panel.

Masks can be made from various materials. The most inexpensive models are made of pressed cardboard. They are lightweight (about 1 kg), but due to high humidity they can swell and become deformed. Plastic masks are bulkier and heavier. However, such models also last longer.

The best high-end chameleon masks

Next, we will look at the best high-end automatic welding helmets.

Welding mask Fubag ULTIMA 5-13 Panoramic Black

The cost of this professional welder mask is almost 6 thousand rubles. At the same time, the mask has enormous functionality and the highest quality of workmanship. The degree of adjustment of the Fubag ULTIMA 5-13 Panoramic Black mask is from 5 to 13 DIN units. This contributes to the excellent performance of the filter even in the most difficult conditions.

Four high-quality photo sensors provide stable and reliable protection of the welder's eyes from ultraviolet rays, from any angle. They are powered by two replaceable batteries and a solar photocell. Fubag ULTIMA 5-13 welding helmets are available in various colors. In general, the top ranking of the best high-end chameleon masks is occupied by this product from.

Advantages of the Fubag ULTIMA 5-13 Panoramic Black mask:

• Huge visor;
• Wide range of filter adjustments;
• Beautiful design.

Flaws:

• The mask does not have external sensitivity adjustment. The filter ranges are switched internally.

Rating of the best welding helmets in terms of price-quality ratio

The TOP 3 includes welding masks costing up to 3,000 rubles.

3

FoxWeld Varteg black (6327)

FoxWeld Varteg black (6327) is a budget welding helmet with a built-in darkening function.

Welding helmet with manual darkening adjustment FoxWeld Varteg black (6327)

Characteristics:

• Price – 1,152 – 1,265 rubles;
• User rating – 4.2;
• Type – chameleon with manual adjustment;
• Shading degree – DIN 4/9-13;
• Viewing window – 95×31 mm.

The device is compatible with a filter with dimensions of 110x90x9 mm of optical class 1/1/1/2. The design provides two independent infrared sensors that provide high-speed response. Four types of headband adjustment (height, distance to the eyes, lowering angle and diameter) allow you to adjust the mask. A combined power supply system is provided, from a solar battery and a lithium battery.

Advantages:

• Low cost;
• Filter class;
• Suitable for argon arc welding;
• Manual setting.

Flaws:

• There is no provision for locking the product in the desired position;
• Flimsy headrest adjustment screw.

2

RESANTA MS-2

The protective welding helmet RESANTA MS-2 reliably protects the worker from harmful radiation.

Reliable welding helmet RESANTA MS-2

Characteristics:

• Price – 1,940 – 2,714 rubles;
• User rating – 4.5;
• Type – chameleon;
• Shading degree – DIN 4/9-13;
• Viewing window – 92×42 mm.

The weight of the model is only 470 g, which greatly simplifies work and transportation. The filter throughput varies from 4 to 12 DIN. Its response time is only 0.02 ms. The device runs on a CR2450, CR2032 battery or solar panel. There is a grinding mode, adjustment of sensitivity and delay time.

Advantages:

• Light weight;
• Sits comfortably on the head;
• Low price;
• Fast dimming.

Flaws:

• Insufficient transparency of the filter;
• There is no adjustment wheel on the outside.

1

Fubag Optima 9-13

Fubag Optima 9-13 is a welding helmet that reliably protects the operator in two modes: during welding and grinding.

Comfortable welding helmet Fubag Optima 9-13

Characteristics:

• Price – 1,983 – 2,890 rubles;
• User rating – 4.5;
• Type – chameleon with manual adjustment;
• Shading degree – DIN /9-13;
• Viewing window – 95×36 mm.

A special fastening system significantly reduces the load on the neck. When open, the center of gravity of the mask shifts to head level. It is possible to adjust the degree of sensitivity of the delay time

Advantages:

• Wide temperature range, can be used in frosts down to -5 degrees;
• Fast response;
• Fixed in a raised position;
• Goes down smoothly.

Flaws:

• Difficult battery replacement.

The best budget masks for welders

These are the simplest models with a minimal range of settings or no settings at all. Masks of this class are used for short-term welding work under normal conditions.

Resanta MS-6 - an inexpensive chameleon

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

89%

buyers recommend this product

The product weighs 430 grams and has a small visor size of 90x35 mm. The shade in the light state reaches 4 DIN, in the dark state – 11 DIN. Switching takes 1 millisecond and the delay is 0.6 seconds.

Advantages:

• Automatic filter;
• Ease of use;
• Adjustment for tilt and head circumference;
• Light weight – 430 grams;
• Compliance with the price-quality parameter.

Flaws:

• During welding, smoke may penetrate under the mask.

The sensitivity adjustment on Resanta MS is set in accordance with the lighting and the presence of light interference.

Stavr MS-1/12 – good optical class

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

This welder protection is equipped with a light filter measuring 110x90 mm and a viewing window of 88x30 mm. The darkening is manually adjustable: in the dark state it reaches 12 DIN, and in the light state it is 3 DIN.

Without adjustment, two ASF sensors operate at a speed of 0.4 s, and the filter brightens after 0.2 s. The body of the mask is made of durable polyvinyl chloride, so it weighs 400 grams.

Advantages:

• Optical protection class 1/1/1/2;
• Ease of use;
• Powered by solar cell and CR2032 batteries;
• Operates at temperatures -10..+65 °C.

Flaws:

• The light filter may not work if the angle of incidence relative to the arc is more than 120°.

Stavr MS is a certified product for which the manufacturer provides a three-year guarantee.

Rating of premium welding masks

The TOP 3 includes reliable welding helmets with a flexible adjustment system. The cost of the model starts from 3000 rubles.

3

RESANTA MS-5

RESANTA MS-5 is a welding mask for reliable protection of the eyes and face of the craftsman.

Welding helmet RESANTA MS-5

Characteristics:

• Price – 3,390 to 4,341 rubles;
• User rating – 4.5;
• Type – chameleon with manual adjustment;
• Shading degree – DIN 9-13;
• Viewing window – 100×60 mm.

The device protects the face and neck from visible light, ultraviolet and infrared radiation. The model features a flexible filter adjustment system. The operator can adjust the degree of sensitivity and delay time. Additionally, the device provides cutting and grinding modes.

Advantages:

• Availability of grinding mode;
• Lightweight but durable body;
• Comfort at work;
• Flexible adjustments;
• Ergonomic headrest;
• Trouble-free operation of automation.

Flaws:

• The two upper arc sensors are a sham, only the two lower sensors work.

2

Aurora A-777 Heavy Metal

Aurora A-777 Heavy Metal is a welding helmet equipped with an automatic light filter.

Welding helmet with a bright design Aurora A-777 Heavy Metal

Characteristics:

• Price – 3,388 to 4,120 rubles;
• User rating – 4.8;
• Type – chameleon with manual adjustment;
• Shading degree – DIN 9-13;
• Viewing window – 99×45 mm.

The model has an original design. It is suitable for both amateurs and professionals. The design includes a special film that protects against the adhesion of splashes of hot metal. Has a good viewing angle. The fastening adjustment system allows you to adjust the mask for the most comfortable fit.

Advantages:

• Stylish bright design;
• Easy to put on;
• Flexible adjustment system;
• Suitable for different types of welding;
• Guarantee period;
• Convenient fastening system;
• Lightweight, weighing only 400 g;
• Reliable housing made of durable polyethylene.

Flaws:

• None.

1

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor is a professional Chameleon welding mask that allows you to safely carry out welding work.

Welding helmet for safe work Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

Characteristics:

• Price – 3,105 to 4,690 rubles;
• User rating – 4.7;
• Type – chameleon with manual adjustment;
• Shading degree – DIN 4-8/9-13;
• Viewing window – 100×65 mm.

There is a welding and grinding mode, the design has internal adjustment of the degree of darkness, delay time and sensitivity. The light filter automatically reacts to the ignition of the arc, moving from a light state to a dark state. When raised, the center of gravity moves lower to reduce stress on the head and neck. The mask can be used at temperatures down to – 10 degrees. It runs on a replaceable lithium battery and a solar battery.

Advantages:

• High quality filter;
• The controls are located under the mask, which protects them from accidental contact during welding;
• Comfortable headband;
• Shockproof housing;
• High protection efficiency;
• Flexibility of tinctures;
• Fast filter clarification;
• Minimum response time;
• Powered by lithium or solar battery;
• Manufacturer's warranty 2 years;
• Suitable for argon welding;
• Durable;
• Reliable protection of the cornea from light radiation with a class 1/1/1/1 filter
• Wide view.

Flaws:

• None.

Which brand of welding mask is best to choose?

Such accessories are produced mainly by the same companies that produce welding equipment. The list of the most reliable of them includes the following companies:

• Resanta is a brand recognizable on the Russian electrical equipment market, whose tools and products have become the standard for the ratio of high quality and optimal cost. It sells welding equipment and accessories for it, including chameleon masks.
• Fubag Ultima is a specialized German manufacturer of products for construction and renovation. His offers are interesting because of the packaging; the sets always come with additional lenses. The company's masks provide ideal protection from emitted light and are recommended for both short-term and long-term welding work.
• ESAB is a company dedicated to providing comfort, safety, convenience and efficiency when working with welding equipment. To this end, it provides chameleon masks and shields to protect the face and head. Among them there are models with a large viewing area, a folding screen, and an air supply unit. The products provide reliable protection against infrared and ultraviolet radiation.
• Zubr is a Russian manufacturer of a wide range of power tools and equipment. He has a series of masks and shields with folding glass, auto-darkening, and a fixed light filter. There are models with adjustable lightening speed and the ability to work with a welding machine in grinding mode.
• Interskol is one of the leaders of the best manufacturers of equipment and accessories for welding. They have few masks for operators, but they are versatile - they are used to protect against splashes of hot metal, bright flashes, sparks, UV and IR radiation arising from an arc or plasma.