Based on experience and extensive research, I found that the 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01 is the overall best welding respirator.
I am a welder who researched the best welding respirator to help you find the best respirator for your welding needs.
To prevent breathing in chemical vapors, metal particles, and dust, you must equip yourself with a suitable welding respirator.
We put together this comprehensive list to minimize the troubles and confusion in your selection process.
This article will guide you in making the best choice.
Overall Best
3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01
- It comes with variable dark shades 5, 8-13.
- It comes with tack welding comfort mode.
- It is excellent for arc welding.
Best for Budget
Honeywell Home North 5500 Series Niosh-Approved Half Mask Respirator
- It provides strong support around your chin area.
- It comes with approval for use with a backpack adapter.
- It has a 5500 series air purifying respirator (APR).
Best for Comfort
Breath Buddy Respirator Mask Kit (Plus Safety Glasses)
- It offers double filters with a reusable mask respirator.
- It comes with safety glasses.
- It has zero-odor technology.
Top 9 Best Welding Respirators
1. 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01 (Overall Best Welding Respirator)
2. Miller ML00895 LPR-100 Respirator W/Filters (Runner-up for Best Welding Respirator)
3. 3M Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator Assembly 6391/07003(AAD), Large, P100 Respiratory Protection (Best Welding Respirator for Toughness and Lasting)
4. GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Dust Half Mask Respirator (Best Welding Respirator for TIG welding)
5. 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6501QL (Best Welding Respirator for Heavy-duty Flame Resistance)
6. Breath Buddy Respirator Mask Kit, Plus Safety Glasses (Best Welding Respirator for Comfort)
7. Honeywell Home North 5500 Series Niosh-Approved Half Mask Respirator (Best Welding Respirator for Budget)
8. Lincoln Electric XLR P100 Half Mask Respirator – Medium (Best Welding Respirator for Design)
9. Moldex 2400N95 Organic Vapor Respirator with Charcoal Filter, Medium/Large, Gray (Best Welding Respirator for Easy Maintenance)
Our Top Picks for Best Welding Respirator and Why
1. 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01
Brand
3M
Safety Standards
It complies with all OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
Airflow/Purification System
This respirator’s 3M’s Adflo air-purifying system is impressive. You can turbo-charge it.
Durability
The respirator is heavy-duty and has a long-lasting battery.
Maintenance
You should constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
21.7 x 12.7 x 10.8 inches.
The dark state of the 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Respirator G5-01 allows you to select different color saturation levels.
One fantastic feature is that your smartphone can adjust sensitivity, delay, and preferences with the 3M app. Such prevents you from taking your mask off while working.
The respirator’s filter box uses its net to protect the filter from sparks.
Also, the helmet comes with a switch on the left side that lets you control the amount of airflow between the side outlets and the top outlet.
This equipment offers the highest protection from harmful fumes and gases you can ever find.
The only problem with this masterpiece is its price.
2. Miller ML00895 LPR-100 Respirator W/Filters
Brand
Miller Electric
Safety Standards
It complies with all FDA guidelines.
Airflow/Purification System
It has strong filters that constantly resist oil and other chemical vapors.
Durability
It comes with an intelligent valve system that releases the heat built underneath. Such prevents you from suffocating.
Maintenance
Do well to replace and repair parts for the entire item to maintain a healthy functioning system.
Size and Fitting
7.36 x 4.02 x 3.82 inches.
The Miller ML00895 LPR-100 Respirator W/Filters is a perfect pick if you don’t want to draw much attention to your face mask.
It also enables you to wear safety glasses without any problem.
This mask does an excellent job of protecting you from spatters and dust when working.
One fantastic thing about the miller respirator is that it is excellent for persons with allergies.
It uses no silicone or latex in the making process. So you won’t find any unpleasant smell with this face shield.
Still, some buyers report it does not fit well under a helmet.
3. 3M Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator Assembly 6391/07003(AAD), Large, P100 Respiratory Protection
Brand
3M
Safety Standards
It has NIOSH approved 3M filters and cartridges. It also complies with all OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
Airflow/Purification System
This respirator has an incredible flow valve to help keep hot air and moisture outside the mask.
Durability
You can always replace the cartridges with new P100 Filter/Cartridges or 3M 2000 or 2200 Series Filters or 6000 Series Cartridges.
Maintenance
You should constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
8 x 7 x 3 inches.
This 3M Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator Assembly is super lightweight and comfortable.
The mask’s rubber effectively seals your mouth and nose to protect you from harmful dust and fumes. It is also flexible.
You can also ensure an excellent snug fit by adjusting the straps and making sure it is not too tight.
The filter can fit perfectly under a welding helmet.
Please note that if you receive this product without the filters, just contact the seller, and they will send you a pair.
4. GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Dust Half Mask Respirator
Brand
GVS
Safety Standards
NIOSH Approval TC-84A-6949.
Airflow/Purification System
It has a close pleated high-efficiency synthetic air filter. Such offers hydro-phobic protection greater than 99.97%.
Durability
This mask is highly durable and can protect you from many things like:
- Oxide
- Titanium
- Coal
- Marble
- Gypsum, etc.
Maintenance
Do well to constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
5 x 4 x 4 inches.
The GVS SPR457 Elipse P100 Dust Half Mask Respirator is worth the attention it gets from many professionals. Such is because of its beautiful design.
I love this half mask because of how lightweight and compact it is. It also affords you convenience in extreme welding environments.
It has a non-slip strap, which lets you easily adjust the mask to four positions.
You can use this mask as a P100 respirator mask. Such maximizes your protection and is also oil-proof.
This respirator has a sizable built-in valve that helps lessen breathing resistance while avoiding breath condensation from amassing inside the respirator.
The only downside is its somewhat uncomfortable rubber seal.
5. 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6501QL
Brand
3M
Safety Standards
It has NIOSH approval. It complies with all OSHA standards and the (Canadian) CAN/CSA-Z94.4-18 requirements.
Airflow/Purification System
This mask has an innovative design with a valve cover to assist you in directly exhaling breath and moisture downward.
Durability
This facepiece is compatible with all other 3M bayonet-style filters and cartridges to give you the best respiratory protection from gases and hazards.
Maintenance
Be quick to replace and repair parts for the entire item to maintain a healthy functioning system.
Size and Fitting
7.15 x 3.95 x 8.05 inches.
The 3M Rugged Comfort Quick Latch Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator 6501QL helps protect you from airborne contaminants when working in harsh and dirty work environments.
This facepiece has a firm, light-textured silicone face seal with a robust body construction. Such makes it stable, durable, and comfortable.
Its quick latch removes the need to eliminate your face shield or hard hat when raising or lowering the respirator.
6. Breath Buddy Respirator Mask Kit, Plus Safety Glasses
Brand
Breath Buddy
Safety Standards
It complies with all OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
Airflow/Purification System
It has a built-in excellent air valve that effectively eliminates vapors and fumes when you wear it.
Durability
It offers dual-stage protection with a particulate filter and cartridges.
Maintenance
You should constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
8.15 x 5.71 x 4.76 inches.
This mask comes with safety glasses that provide fog-free vision. Such is a rear feature.
The Breath Buddy Respirator Mask Kit, Plus Safety Glasses, is known for eliminating all indications and traces of airborne pollutants that could affect your lungs.
It offers you a comfortable and perfect fit. Such lets you stay cool no matter how long you wear it.
Yet, it does have a somewhat tricky installation of the filters.
7. Honeywell Home North 5500 Series Niosh-Approved Half Mask Respirator
Brand
Honeywell
Safety Standards
It has NIOSH approval for use with a backpack adaptor for welding.
Airflow/Purification System
It has a reasonable breathing solution compatible with all Honeywell’s N-Series cartridges.
Durability
This half mask has strong support around your chin area. Such makes it very effective.
Maintenance
Do well to constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
7.15 x 3.95 x 8.05 inches.
The Honeywell Home North 5500 Series Niosh-Approved Half Mask Respirator is one of the most affordable welding respirators for welders.
One central talk point of this welding mask is its appearance. Welders of different ages and genders find it fitting.
This mask is an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor welding.
It also has an exhalation valve, half-face piece, and filter structure. Such does an excellent job in preventing hazards from your welding activities.
This mask has a water-resistant material that makes it very effective for welding in the rain.
You can also wear this mask underneath the welding shield.
Yet, some buyers complain about the thin straps.
8. Lincoln Electric XLR P100 Half Mask Respirator – Medium
Brand
Lincoln Electric
Safety Standards
It complies with all OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
Airflow/Purification System
It has a large filter size and an engineered air intake to help increase the mask life and save you time and money.
Durability
It offers a high-density nylon housing shield that protects you from:
- Debris
- Sparks
- Spatter, etc.
Maintenance
You should constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
10 x 9 x 4 inches.
The Lincoln Electric XLR P100 Half Mask Respirator – Medium is an excellent low-profile welding fume respirator that goes with your helmet.
It has a P100 XLR that can protect you from oil aerosols and particles.
This thermoplastic rubber mask comes with a 4-point suspension. Such makes this mask conforms to the shape of your face. It evenly distributes its weight.
Again, its compressify technology allows you to seal the respirator correctly when you wear it.
Still, it may not be well compatible with some hoods.
9. Moldex 2400N95 Organic Vapor Respirator with Charcoal Filter, Medium/Large, Gray
Brand
Moldex
Safety Standards
It has NIOSH approval. It also complies with all OSHA and ANSI safety standards.
Airflow/Purification System
It has an added carbon layer that helps filter nuisance levels of ozone and organic vapors.
Durability
This respirator is very durable as it can withstand higher temperatures and humidity levels.
Maintenance
Do well to constantly clean and disinfect this welding respirator.
Size and Fitting
7 x 6 x 0.5 inches.
The Moldex 2400N95 Organic Vapor Respirator with Charcoal Filter offers superior welding comfort.
It has a good quality inside liner and nose cushion made of soft foam.
This mask’s material is environmentally friendly, and you wear it comfortably under your welding helmet.
Buyer’s Guide – What You Should Look for When Buying a Welding Respirator
Below are some crucial factors you must consider when buying a welding respirator:
The Respirator Purification System
Your welding respirator must have the right level of filters.
Different respirators have different sets of filtering pieces and cartridges. Such determines the purification system.
But remember that those with more filtering pieces and cartridges are usually more expensive.
Durability
Your welding respirator should be very durable. Such is vital in the long run and would also help in keeping your lungs safe.
Also, you could be spending money now and then if your respirator isn’t durable enough.
Comfort and Breathability
Always make sure that your shield is breathable. You would be very uncomfortable if you felt like suffocating while welding.
Confirm if the feature of the item has much built-up heat inside it.
The valve system of your welding respirator also plays a vital role in determining the airflow of your mask.
Materials
Your welding respirator’s material is also another critical factor.
Silicone is one very prevalent material for welding respirators. Such material makes a respirator very strong and effective for high-temperature and humid environments.
Mesh material is also very good at offering comfort when welding. Such allows you to breathe well when welding.
Masks with water-resistant fabric are also suitable for outdoor welding.
It is important to note that most welders do not like masks that have latex or PVC in their material. Such do produce weird smells and could cause allergies.
Price Vs. Budget
The higher the quality of a welding respirator, the higher the price.
Thus, it is advisable to spend more on respirators with higher durability. Such respirators typically have a longer lifespan.
Also, do pay attention to a respirator filter replacement price. Such makes a big difference in the long run if you change the filter regularly.
Filter Range
If you engage in multiple types of welding, it’s essential to consider a respirator with a wider variety of filters and cartridges. Such will allow you to change only the filter and not the whole respirator.
Design and Fit
The design and size of a welding respirator will suit you or not.
Do consider respirators that you can quickly put on and take off.
Also, consider respirators that would fit under your helmet if you were wearing the same under a helmet.
What is a Welding Respirator, And How Does It Work?
A welding respirator is a critical piece of personal protective equipment for welders. You wear such over your nose and mouth.
Some respirators can cover your whole face. An example of such is the 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01.
Welding respirators are essential because they protect you from inhaling poisonous and toxic substances that come with welding. Respirators keep you healthy!
Welding respirators function by:
- Filtering particles in the air
- Purifying the air from gases and chemicals
- Providing clean and safe air from a different source
It is important to note that the functions of a respirator depend on its actual type.
Types of Welding Respirators
Below are some of the best kinds of welding respirators:
Reusable Respirator
You can use these kinds of respirators repeatedly. It mostly has a sturdy textile material.
It also comes with a filter you often replace when it’s dirty. It is lightweight and easy to use.
Disposable Respirator
You can only use this kind of respirator once, after which you discard it. Such does not require cleaning or maintenance.
A disposable respirator is often a good choice for those using a welding helmet.
It is usually thin and lightweight. Still, it does not offer the best protection.
Full-mask Respirator
A full-mask respirator offers complete coverage.
In most cases, it comes with a face shield that prevents contaminants from entering your face and eyes.
It covers your whole face and protects you from toxic gases and fumes.
NIOSH usually recommends a full-mask respirator.
Half-mask Respirator
A half-mask respirator is tight-fitting and covers from your nose to your chin.
It’s a good choice if your welding environment isn’t very hazardous.
Powered Air-purifying Respirator
This kind of respirator comes with a hose that connects to a helmet.
It also comes with a blower. Such help force quality air into the purifier or filter into the respirator.
A powered air-purifying respirator is the best welding respirator by all standards.
Review Summary
The 3M Speedglas Heavy-Duty Welding Helmet G5-01 is our overall best welding respirator because of its 99% efficiency.
But if you feel that the 3M Speedglas exceeds your budget, then you can go with the Miller ML00895 LPR-100 Respirator W/Filters, the second most effective welding respirator on the market currently.
If comfort is your biggest priority, then the Breath Buddy Respirator Mask Kit, Plus Safety Glasses, is your best pick.
FAQ
How Harmful is welding smoke for you?
Very bad. If you directly inhale welding smoke for long, the fumes could result in dizziness and nausea and could harm your:
- Kidney
- Nervous system
- Larynx or
- Lungs.
What are the trusted brands for welding respirators?
There are a lot of excellent respirators to choose from for welding. Every brand has its strength.
Some of the most reliable brands are:
- 3M
- Miller
- Honeywell
- Moldex
What type of respirator is suitable for stainless steel welding?
Stainless steel welding exposes you to fumes with chromium and nickel particles. So you will need a powered air respirator with a particle filter feature.
How long do welding respirators last?
There is no specific time for which a welding respirator should last. Such is because of the many determining factors.
The best rule is that you should do away with your welding respirator as soon as you sense the dust or fumes passing through when welding.
