Why is it that people only want the CHEAP helmets???? I don't understand that way of thinking at all, You have one set of good eyes and you want to cheap out on the only protection they will receive from what would normally be blinding light rays. You really need to re-think your priorities. If you can not afford to protect your only set of eye's, then don't weld !!! it's just that simple. Welding is harmful enough with good protection, an if you don't believe me, then go ask any welder that has been in the trade for more then 14 years...
I have been welding since I was 10 years old, how I got started so young? My father was a welder, and he was always gone, so I kept myself busy in the shop making things to show him once he returned. I had absolutely no supervision at all, but my father always stressed the need for proper welding precautions.
I have been using automatic darkening helmets and Shields for the last 23-24 years. back then they cost about $600.00 for a good welding helmet, one like Miller, Hobart or Lincoln. I have never used a cheap welding helmet in my life, except to inspect some junk some dumb person bought, thinking he was getting a bargain. Some bargain, you save a few dollars and go blind 10 years sooner.....You do the math on that one.
Good equipment cost good money. I have seen the junk Harbor Freight sells, and it's just that junk. Now days there is no reason to purchase a junk welding helmet, the price of a brand name like Lincoln, Miller ..so on, has gotten to the level that it makes no sense to not buy their products. I guess there will always be a market for crap, there always seems to be a line at those places, but the wise welder or mechanic will fore-go the cheap stuff and spend there money more wisely. That way maybe they get to work a little longer in the trade they love, or get to see the sights in focus a little longer. If you think welding won't hurt your eyes your an idiot. All welding degrades your eyes, it's a fact. The key is to use the best equipment available and try to midi-gate the damage. I always weld what ever it is I'm working on, like it's the most precious single important thing I can do at that time, because I know each and every weld reduces my vision, and if I'm going to mess with something as dear as sight itself, I'm going to give that project my up-most attention. I never weld anything half-***-ed, just like I never take my sight for granted, and you should show the same respect for your vision. My Father had to give up welding many years ago, his eyes just got to bad. But while he was welding, he was one of the best, he kept us kids warm, feed and clothed with money he made from welding, and I'll never forget that. I know many older welders, and none of them can see very well, they don't complain, but each and every one will tell PO to value your sight while you still have it, it's sorely missed once it's gone.
What's all this mean to you and your original question?.? I'm not sure, but I hope you change your priorities around and stop looking for the cheapest equipment, and in stead, ask a few questions, and the first should be, How well will this welding helmet protect me and my eyes. Once you cross that bridge, the rest will just come along naturally.
Good Luck