304 vs 316L Stainless Steel
A comprehensive comparison to help you choose the right grade for your project
| Property | Grade 304 | Grade 316L |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 18% Cr, 8% Ni | 16% Cr, 10% Ni, 2% Mo |
| Corrosion Resistance | Good — suitable for most indoor environments | Excellent — resists chlorides, acids & marine environments |
| Pitting Resistance (PREN) | ~18–20 | ~24–26 (significantly higher) |
| Tensile Strength | ≥515 MPa | ≥485 MPa |
| Yield Strength | ≥205 MPa | ≥170 MPa |
| Weldability | Excellent | Excellent (low carbon reduces sensitization) |
| Formability | Excellent | Good |
| Surface Finishes Available | Mirror 8K, Hairline, PVD, Etched, Embossed, No.4, BA | Mirror 8K, Hairline, PVD, No.4, BA |
| Typical Applications | Interior cladding, elevator panels, lobby décor, furniture, kitchenware | Coastal buildings, swimming pools, chemical plants, marine environments, medical facilities |
| Relative Cost | Standard (baseline) | ~20–30% higher than 304 |
| WJH Stock Availability | In Stock — All Sizes | In Stock — Common Sizes |
When to Choose Each Grade
Choose Grade 304 when…
Your project is in a dry or low-humidity indoor environment, such as hotel lobbies, office buildings, shopping malls, residential interiors, or elevator cabs. Grade 304 offers excellent aesthetics, workability, and value — it accounts for over 70% of all decorative stainless steel applications worldwide.
Choose Grade 316L when…
Your project is exposed to chlorides, salt air, moisture, or chemicals — such as coastal buildings, outdoor facades, swimming pool surrounds, food processing facilities, or marine structures. The added molybdenum in 316L provides significantly superior pitting and crevice corrosion resistance.
Not Sure Which Grade You Need?
Our technical team can recommend the right grade based on your project environment and budget.