A comparison of the composition, corrosion resistance, durability and price of 201 and 304 stainless steel, so you can choose the right material for gates, railings and staircases.
When you ask for a quote on a stainless steel gate or railing, the first question the fabricator usually asks is: do you want 201 or 304 stainless steel? The two look almost identical, but they differ quite a lot in composition, durability and price.
Differences in composition
304 stainless steel contains about 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 201 stainless steel has only about 1 to 2% nickel, with the rest replaced by manganese and nitrogen. Nickel is what makes stainless steel resist humidity and chemicals, so 304 resists rust far better.
Corrosion resistance
- 304 stainless steel: works well outdoors, in damp places and near water. It is the right choice for Long Xuyen and the Mekong Delta, where humidity is high all year.
- 201 stainless steel: works well indoors in dry places, such as indoor stair handrails and interior furniture. Left outdoors for a long time, it can develop rust spots, especially at the welds.
Hardness and workability
201 stainless steel is slightly harder, so it is harder to bend and can crack at sharp bends. 304 stainless steel is more ductile, bends and polishes well, and gives even, durable welds. For decorative, curved or round parts, prefer 304.
Price difference
304 stainless steel is usually about 25 to 40% more expensive than 201, depending on the nickel price at the time. For outdoor projects the difference is well worth it, because 304 can last twice as long.
Quick guide
- Gates, fences, balcony railings and outdoor canopies: choose 304.
- Industrial kitchens, sinks and food prep tables: choose 304 (or 316 near the sea or chemicals).
- Indoor stair handrails, shelves and decorative cabinets: 201 is enough if you need to save money.
- If your budget is limited, you can use 304 for the parts exposed to weather and 201 for the indoor parts.
Buying tips
Many products on the market are labeled 304 but are actually 201. Ask the workshop to put the material in writing and to run a stainless steel test reagent on site. At Inox Phu Phong, we state the stainless steel grade clearly in the quote and give a 12-month warranty.
Contact Inox Phu Phong on hotline 0913 706 536 (Mr. Phong) for a free survey and quote in Long Xuyen and the neighboring districts of An Giang.
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