What is the difference between
the Speedglas G5-01VC and G5-01TW welding helmets?
The G5-01VC and G5-01TW are the PAPR (powered air purifying respirator) helmets from 3M Speedglas' 5th generation of welding helmets (their newest range). Launched to continue Speedglas' domination of the welding helmet space, the G5-01 has been built based on real welders' feedback and the result is the most comprehensive helmet on the market.
Designed for professional welders, the G5-01 has a number of notable improvements on the previous 9100 series (which had been the leading respiratory welding helmet in the market for ~15 years prior to the G5-01 being released).
In appearance, the G5-01VC and G5-01TW are identical, so we've taken the time to break down what features are shared across both helmets and what are unique to each helmet.
The World's Best Heavy Duty Welding Helmet
The G5-01 range at a glance
- Brand:
- Summary:
Heavy-duty flip-up welding helmet designed for professional use.
- Powered Air Respirator:
Comes with the 3M Adflo PAPR system, which provides respiratory protection by filtering the air and supplying it to the user.
- Flip-Up Functionality:
Flip-up mechanism with clear grinding visor underneath that allows the user to quickly switch between welding and non-welding tasks without removing the entire helmet.
- Designed for safety and comfort:
The G5-01 range is designed to protect welders as well as provide them a super comfortable experience during use.
Features |  3M Speedglas G5-01 TW | 3M Speedglas G5-01 VC |
|---|
| Shades | (8-13) | (8-14) |
| Delay (50 – 1300 ms) | | |
| Bluetooth with use analytics | | |
| 73 x 109 mm viewing area | | |
| 3M Speedglas True-View4 | | |
| Comes with HD (12 hour) battery | | |
| Easy to detach lens (reduced weight)3 | | |
| Air flow control2 | | |
| Thinner than 9100XXi FX Air1 | | |
| Available with task light (optional extra) | | |
| Tack mode (to reduce eye fatigue when tacking) | | |
| Variable colour mode (3 colour options to best view welds)5 | | |
5
VARIABLE COLOUR TECHNOLOGY
So which one is right for me?
The decision of which G5-01 welding helmet (the G5-01 TW or the G5-01VC) is right for you really depends on 2 things; budget and what you're using the helmet for.
If money was no object, we would always recommend the G5-01VC, because of how good the variable colour technology is.
However for welders tacking all day, the tack mode is very handy and will help reduce eye fatigue over the course of the day (and you'll save a few dollars compared to the G5-01VC)
Both helmets are the high quality you would expect from Speedglas, and we rate the G5-01VC and G5-01TW as the two best welding helmets with PAPR currently in the market (by quite a long way).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the 3M Speedglas G5-01VC and G5-01TW welding helmets?
Both helmets are part of 3M Speedglas's 5th generation range and are identical in appearance, but they differ in two key areas. The G5-01VC features Variable Colour technology, which gives welders three colour options (normal, cool, and warm) to better view their welds - making it the premium choice. The G5-01TW instead includes a dedicated Tack Mode, which reduces eye fatigue for welders who spend long periods tack welding. Both come with the 3M Adflo PAPR system, a 73 x 109 mm viewing area, Bluetooth connectivity, True-View technology, and a detachable lens.
Which Speedglas G5-01 helmet is better for tack welding?
The Speedglas G5-01TW is specifically designed for welders who perform a lot of tack welding. Its dedicated tack welding mode uses an intermediate shade before returning to the light state, helping reduce eye strain during repetitive welds.
Do the G5-01VC and G5-01TW use the same spare parts and accessories?
Yes. All spare parts and accessories are compatible across the Speedglas G5-01 range , including cover lenses, head harness components and Adflo PAPR parts. This makes maintenance easier and ensures replacement parts are widely available.
Which Speedglas G5-01 helmet should I buy, the VC or the TW?
The right choice comes down to your budget and the type of welding you do most. If budget allows, the G5-01VC is generally recommended for its Variable Colour technology, which enhances weld visibility. However, if you spend most of your day tack welding, the G5-01TW's Tack Mode is specifically designed to reduce eye fatigue in that scenario - and it comes at a lower price point. Both helmets are widely regarded as the two best PAPR welding helmets currently on the market.
Do both the G5-01VC and G5-01TW come with PAPR respiratory protection?
Yes. Both the Speedglas G5-01VC and G5-01TW come standard with the 3M Adflo Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR). The Adflo system works by filtering the surrounding air and supplying it to the welder inside the helmet, providing respiratory protection from welding fume - which is classified as a Group 1 Carcinogen. The helmets also feature adjustable airflow control so welders can direct air to the position they prefer inside the helmet.
