Auto-darkening helmets: what the numbers mean and what to spend

Shade range 9-13 covers everything a hobbyist does; variable is better than fixed. Switching speed 1/10,000 s or faster; slower ones flash you. Sensors: 4 is noticeably better than 2 when something blocks the view, like TIG at low amps. Optical class 1/1/1/1 is the best; 1/1/1/2 is fine. Viewing area matters more than you think for out-of-position work.

The $40 helmets have improved a lot, but their lenses are often green-tinted and the headgear is bad. A $120 to $180 helmet with a true-color lens and decent headgear is the sweet spot. Buy a stack of clear cover lenses whichever you get; spatter pits them fast.