What’s the Difference Between 201 and 304 Stainless Steel?

When purchasing stainless steel products, you’ll often come across two common grades: 201 and 304.They are widely used in kitchen equipment, home hardware, architectural decoration, and industrial structures.—————Hermdeco stainless steel

 

When purchasing stainless steel products, you’ll often come across two common grades: 201 and 304.They are widely used in kitchen equipment, home hardware, architectural decoration, and industrial structures.However, many people don't fully understand the differences between them and mistakenly assume they offer similar performance with only price differences.

 

In reality, 201 and 304 stainless steels differ significantly in chemical composition, corrosion resistance, durability, price, and areas of application.This article offers an objective and comprehensive comparison to help you make the right material choice.

 

1. Chemical Composition: The Nickel Makes the Difference

 

 

 

Key Point:
201 is a low-nickel, high-manganese steel, while 304 is a high-nickel stainless steel, leading to major differences in corrosion resistance, ductility, and long-term performance.

 

2. Corrosion Resistance: 304 is Superior

 

304 Stainless Steel: The higher nickel content gives it excellent resistance to corrosion, particularly in humid, salty, or acidic environments. It is widely used in food-grade, medical-grade, and coastal applications.

 

201 Stainless Steel: While it offers some corrosion resistance, it tends to rust more easily when exposed to water, salt, or acidic substances over time.

 

Recommendation:
If you're in a coastal or humid area, 304 is the safer and longer-lasting option.

 

 

3. Mechanical Properties and Workability

 

 

For processes like bending, welding, or stamping, 304 performs more reliably with a higher yield rate.

 

4. Price Difference

 

201 stainless steel is cheaper, often 30%–50% lower in price than 304, making it popular in cost-sensitive applications such as display racks or decorative items.

304 stainless steel is more expensive but delivers better long-term value in terms of lifespan, lower maintenance, and safety.

 

Conclusion:
Low price doesn’t always mean low cost. The longer service life and lower risk of 304 may lead to real savings over time.

 

5. How to Tell Them Apart?

 

They may look similar at first glance, but you can identify them by:

Magnet Test: 201 is often slightly magnetic; 304 is typically non-magnetic (may become weakly magnetic after welding).

Chemical Spot Test: Specialized testing liquid can instantly identify the grade.

Spark Test or Spectrometer: More precise methods for industrial applications and quality control.

 

6. Application Recommendations

 

 

 

7. Summary: Which One Should You Choose?

 

 

Final Thought:

If your main concern is price, 201 may suit your needs.

If you care more about safety, durability, and long-term performance, 304 is a smart investment.

 

If you’re unsure which material to choose for your project, feel free to contact HengChoi Steel’s technical team.

We provide free sample testing and professional material recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

The right material means longer product life and greater peace of mind.