by Natalie Edwards

Looking for a reliable auto-darkening welding helmet without breaking the bank? The Weldclass Promax series is designed to deliver quality at an affordable price. Let’s compare the top-selling models, the Promax 350 and Promax 500, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.

Meet the Weldclass Promax Series

The Promax series is known for its simplicity, reliability, and essential features that welders value. Unlike helmets with excessive features that can compromise durability, the Promax 350 and Promax 500 are built for practical use.

Key Features

    • Lens Assembly System: A “hinge and lock” design ensures a secure fit, protecting the electronic lens from spatter and allowing quick lens replacements.
    • Full-Laminate Lens Construction: Unlike edge-glued lenses, Weldclass lenses are fully laminated for better optical quality, increased durability, and reliability.
    • Headgear Design: Simple, robust, and comfortable headgear that’s built to last without unnecessary complexity.
    • After-Sales Support: Both models come with a 2-year warranty and quick support if any issues arise.

Who Are These Helmets For?

  • Professionals and hobbyists seeking a dependable, mid-range helmet.
  • Welders looking to spend under $200 without compromising safety or performance.

Promax 350 vs Promax 500: Key Differences

Both helmets meet safety standards and feature a 1/1/1/2 optical lens rating. Here’s how they compare:

 

Promax 350 (Blue Helmet)

Promax 500 (Black Helmet)
Cost RRP: $148.00+GST RRP: $223.00+GST
Viewing Area 100x53mm 98x87mm
Weight 480g 560g
Suitable Welding Processes MIG, MMA/Stick & TIG (>30 amps), Grinding MIG, MMA/Stick & TIG (>5 amps), Grinding, Plasma Cuting, Oxy Cutting and Brazing
Suitable Applications Light industrial & maintenance, Rural etc Industrial fabrication, Part-time & full time welding, maintenance welding etc.
Power Supply 1 x CR2032 replaceable battery & solar assist 1 x CR2450 replaceable battery & solar assist
Active Shade (weld) 9-13 Dual range 5-8/9-13
Inactive Shade (grind/off) Shade 4 Same
Arc Sensing 4 Sensors Same
On/Odd Ready to use at any time, no switching required Same
Sensitivity Low-High Same
Grind Mode Switchable On/Off Same
Switching Speed 1/30,000 (0.00003) sec Same
Magnification Lens Holder Yes Yes
Standards Compliance Lens: AS1338.1, ANSI Z87.1, CSA Z94.3
Shell: AS/NZS1337.1 High Impact EN 175 B, ANSI Z87.1, CSA Z94.3		 Same
Optical Rating 1/1/1/2 (Optical quality / Diffusion of light / Variation in luminous transmittance / Angle dependence) Same
Warranty 2 years (on auto darkening lens) Same
Temperature Range Operating -5ºC to +55ºC / Storage -10 to +65ºC Same

 

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose the Promax 350 for cost-effective, straightforward welding tasks.
  • Upgrade to the Promax 500 if you need a larger viewing area or advanced shade options.

Both helmets offer exceptional value and reliability, making the Promax series a standout choice for welders of all levels.

If your welding work is mainly for light industrial and maintenance, you may prefer to save yourself some $$$ and stick with the Promax 350!