With fume exposure standards tightening and welders increasingly prioritising comfort, clarity and respiratory protection, Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) are now the go-to for professionals working long hours in heavy-duty environments.
Two top contenders in this space? The 3M Speedglas G5-01TW and the Weldclass Promax 850R. Both offer premium respiratory protection and cutting-edge lens tech, but their features, price points, and extras cater to slightly different users.
So which one deserves a spot in your gear kit? Here’s how they stack up.
The Speedglas G5-01TW is no stranger to workshops, mine sites and fabrication floors. Designed by 3M for demanding conditions, it comes paired with the Adflo PAPR system — a name that’s earned serious trust in the industry.
What stands out immediately is its robust, compact build and flip-up front, giving welders a full-face clear visor when grinding or setting up. The TrueView lens, available in TW or VC options, offers colour-accurate visuals, while Bluetooth integration lets you tweak settings from your phone – a game-changer for welders who want more control without breaking seal.
Airflow sits at 170 or 200 L/min, and alarms alert you when battery or airflow is low. It’s built with long shifts in mind, with an ergonomic suspension that reduces pressure points. The battery gives up to 12 hours of runtime, and while it doesn’t come with a second battery as standard, the full-face, high-impact protection meets every major Australian PPE standard.
Ideal for: Heavy-duty welders who want rugged durability, seamless grinding transitions, and Bluetooth-enabled customisation.
Weldclass might not carry the same global brand weight as 3M, but in the Promax 850R, it has delivered a helmet that punches well above its weight.
Designed with everyday Aussie welders in mind, it’s equipped with a massive 95cm² viewing area, side shade 5 windows for peripheral vision, and an ultra-clear V1-rated (1/1/1/1) auto-darkening lens. The flip-up front reveals a panoramic clear visor for grinding, while the controls — complete with illuminated LCD — offer both manual and automatic settings.
But what really sets the Promax apart is the extras: it ships with a second battery, 3 airflow speeds (170/200/230 L/min), memory settings, and advanced functions like gradient return and tack mode, designed to reduce eye fatigue between welds.
Its 7-year helmet warranty, replaceable batteries with solar assist, and comfort-driven headgear show the brand understands what welders want: a high-performing helmet that doesn’t break the bank.
Ideal for: Versatile welders who want high-end features, more airflow control, and exceptional value for money — plus a huge viewing area for all-day clarity.
So, which helmet wins?
The answer depends on what you value more.
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Want a tried-and-tested industrial workhorse with app control and globally trusted respiratory tech? The Speedglas G5-01TW is for you.
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Prefer a feature-packed helmet with class-leading optics, airflow flexibility, and more included gear? The Promax 850R ticks the boxes — especially for value-focused buyers.
