To the untrained eye, 201 and 304 stainless steel appear very similar. There is only a small difference in colour, and this is due to the slightly different chemical makeup of the two types of stainless steel. However, the properties of the metals can be quite different, as is the cost of manufacturing them.
201 stainless steel (201SS) is a more affordable product to manufacture as it uses less nickel and chromium in its makeup, and instead uses more manganese. 201SS was developed in the 1950's in response due to a shortage of nickel.
304 stainless steel (304SS) is a more expensive product to manufacture, as it uses more nickel and chromium, and less manganese. 304SS was developed in the 1930's.
The Typical Chemical Composition of 201SS and 304SS
201SS:
- Carbon: 0.15 max.
- Manganese: 5.50-7.50 max.
- Phosphorus: 0.06 max.
- Sulfur: 0.03 max.
- Silicon 1.00 max.
- Chromium: 16.00-18.00
- Nickel: 3.50-5.50
- Nitrogen: 0.25 max.
- Iron: Balance
304SS:
- Carbon 0.08 max.
- Manganese 2.00 max.
- Phosphorus 0.045 max.
- Sulfur 0.03 max.
- Silicon 0.75 max.
- Chromium 18.00-20.00
- Nickel 8.00-10.50
- Nitrogen 0.10 max.
- Iron Balance
Which Type Should I Pick for My Home Hardware?
This depends on what you are trying to achieve. Are you looking for more expensive hardware that will last the longest amount of time, even in areas of higher humidity and/or saltier air (such as near the sea)? Or, are you happy with a less expensive product that should only be used inside and will last a shorter amount of time before showing signs of rust? If the former, then 304SS is for you. If the latter, then go for 201SS.
Why Does 201SS Last a Shorter Amount of Time When Compared to 304SS?
The lower amount of nickel and chromium in 201SS is what makes it an easier metal to rust when compared to 304SS. This does not mean that it is poor quality, merely that it is more limited in its use.
For the average person, 201SS will work fine in the home. It can be used for door knobs, hooks, handles, pulls, hinges, and so on without issue. However, you should consider 304 stainless steel for hardware inside bathrooms (due to the increased humidity from running hot water for long periods of time), as well as in homes that are subject to salty air (if you live on the coast for instance). 304SS should always be used for tapware, sinks and basins. Whilst lower grades can be used for these fixtures, it is not recommended due to the risk of rust.
In cases where you plan on using the products outside, you should always go with 304SS. Lower grades will not withstand the environment outside of the home, and rust will likely show within months. You may even wish to go with 316SS for use outside, to ensure a rust-free finish for many years.
New Builds vs Renovations
If you're building a new home, or installing new cabinetry, doors, furniture etc. then we recommend going with 304SS over 201SS for your hardware. The increased cost is marginal, and probably worth it as you can be sure the hardware won't rust or otherwise tarnish for a very long time (perhaps as long as the house remains standing).
If you're renovating an older home, and just looking to replace the hardware on your cabinetry or furniture, then 201SS may be a better option. The lower price will save you money and the 201SS hardware can be expected to last quite a long time. The handles may even last as long as the remaining life of the cabinetry/furniture, or until the house is demolished and rebuilt.
What About Electroplated & Painted Stainless Steel?
Electroplating or painting stainless steel effectively coats it in a protective layer. If you are buying hardware that is electroplated, powder coated, or otherwise finished (such as by PVD) then choosing between 201SS or 304SS is irrelevant, except for the price. There will not be any difference in the life expectancy, as both metals won't rust until the finish is worn away. Once the finish is worn away, then the hardware will need to be replaced or recoated so as to maintain the overall appearance, meaning the base metal will never have the chance to rust.
Examples include, but are not limited to, stainless steel hardware with a matte black finish (powder coated) and hardware with a brass finish (PVD).
Points of Interest
What Finishes Does Stainless Steel Hardware Come In?
In general, stainless steel hardware comes in matte black or brass. Note that the brass finish is not actual brass, it is merely a brass lookalike.
A wider range of finishes can be found with aluminium and zinc based hardware.
Is a Brushed Stainless Finish the Same as Brushed Nickel?
No, the two finishes are different. A brushed stainless finish is achieved by simply polishing the stainless steel. Whereas, a brushed nickel finish is achieved by polishing the nickel plating that has been applied over a base metal. Usually, the base metal used with nickel plating is a zinc alloy.