What Shade Do I Need for Different Welding Processes? (2025 Guide)

Choosing the correct welding shade level is one of the most important steps in protecting your eyes from arc flash. Whether you’re MIG, TIG, MMA or plasma cutting, selecting the right welding helmet shade ensures you can see the weld pool clearly while staying safe. In this 2025 guide we’ll break down exactly what shade numbers you need for different welding processes and what to look for when buying a modern auto-darkening welding helmet.

Why Welding Shade Levels Matter.

Welding produces intense ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. Using the wrong shade can lead to eye strain, poor visibility or even photokeratitis (welder’s flash).

Modern auto-darkening helmets make shade selection easier, but it’s still crucial to understand the correct range for your process.

Recommended Welding Shade Levels by Process

MMA (Stick) Welding – Shade 9–13.

Stick welding creates a bright arc and heavy spatter, so darker shades are essential.

• 40–80 amps: Shade 9
• 80–200 amps: Shade 10–12
• 200–400 amps: Shade 13

For variable amperage work, an auto-darkening helmet with a full Shade 9–13 range is ideal such as the Parweld XR935H Black Light Reactive Welding & Grinding Helmet.

MIG/MAG Welding – Shade 10–13

MIG welding produces a consistent, bright arc. Shade requirements depend on metal thickness and amperage:

• Low-amp MIG: Shade 10
• Medium MIG (around 200A): Shade 11–12
• High-amp MIG (300A+): Shade 13

Look for helmets with fast reaction time and adjustable sensitivity for workshop environments such as Parweld XR942H Panoramic Welding & Grinding Helmet.

TIG Welding – Shade 8–13

TIG welding has a lower, more focused arc but requires greater visual clarity.

• Below 50 amps: Shade 8
• 50–150 amps: Shade 9–11
• 150+ amps: Shade 12–13

A helmet with true colour technology and excellent low-amp response is vital for TIG such as Parweld XR938H Blue Large View Light Reactive Welding and Grinding Helmet, also available in red, silver and graphite.

Plasma Cutting – Shade 5–9

Plasma cutting varies with the type of machine and material thickness.

• Handheld light cutting: Shade 5–6
• Medium cutting: Shade 7–8
• Heavy industrial cutting: Shade 9

Ideal to pair with helmets that feature a dedicated cutting mode such as Parweld XR942H Panoramic Welding & Grinding Helmet.

Grinding – Shade 3–4

Shade 3 or 4 is recommended for grinding, allowing clear visibility while still providing basic eye protection. Many auto-darkening helmets offer a grind mode so you can swap tasks instantly without taking the helmet off.

What to Look for in a Quality Welding Helmet

To stay safe and productive, choose a welding helmet with:

• Auto-darkening filter with Shade 9–13 range
• True Colour lens technology
• Variable sensitivity and delay controls
• A large viewing area
• Comfortable headgear for all-day use

Explore our full range of welding helmets, including the XR938H and XR942H to find the perfect option for your setup.