stick welding with fixed lens

[3Ts]

I don't know who copies who or who actually fabricates the electronics in the auto helmets.
At one time I had a close look at one of the high price helmets and they looked suspiciously like my $40.00 one.

I am suspecting that many if not all share the same electronic circuits but with fancier and or more rugged molded helmet. (fancy paint jobs)

The "circuit" may be the same but the components may not perform the same. I worked for a company making integrated circuits, we would test each and every one of them before shipping to be sure they met spec. Then the rejects were tested again for another company's product and we'd package those and ship them off to that company.

 

[JK22]

Why??? Learning to weld is difficult enough. Why make it harder and refuse an ADH??

 

[MoArk Willy]

The best thing about auto darkening helmet is the adjustable shade. I find that makes a world of difference depending on both amperage and ambient lighting.
I too learned how to weld with a fixed / flip helmet and once you get going it is fine. It's the "getting going" part that gave me trouble.
If you are doing little short welds then the auto helmet is less frustrating. If you are doing long beads then the fixed shade isn't that big of a deal.
For tacking, the auto is the best bet, hands down in my honest opinion. But a hand held would be next for those applications.