1.4301 vs. 1.4404 Stainless Steel: Key Differences
Oct 28, 2025
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If you're looking for high-quality stainless steel for your next project, you've likely come across 1.4301 and 1.4404-two of the most widely used austenitic stainless steel grades. Both belong to the 300 series and offer excellent corrosion resistance, weldability, and formability, but they also have key differences that affect their performance and applications.
This article explains the differences between 1.4301 (AISI 304) and 1.4404 (AISI 316L) stainless steel grades and provides detailed datasheets, advantages, and frequently asked buyer questions to help you choose the right material for your needs.
What material is 1.4301 equivalent to?
| Grade | EN Designation | AISI Equivalent | UNS Number | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4301 | EN 10088-2 | AISI 304 | S30400 | Austenitic Stainless Steel |
| 1.4404 | EN 10088-2 | AISI 316L | S31603 | Austenitic Stainless Steel with Mo addition |
1.4301 vs. 1.4404 Stainless Steel: Chemical Composition
| Element (%) | 1.4301 (304) | 1.4404 (316L) |
|---|---|---|
| C (Carbon) | ≤ 0.07 | ≤ 0.03 |
| Cr (Chromium) | 17.5 – 19.5 | 16.5 – 18.5 |
| Ni (Nickel) | 8.0 – 10.5 | 10.0 – 13.0 |
| Mo (Molybdenum) | - | 2.0 – 2.5 |
| Mn (Manganese) | ≤ 2.0 | ≤ 2.0 |
| Si (Silicon) | ≤ 1.0 | ≤ 1.0 |
| N (Nitrogen) | ≤ 0.11 | ≤ 0.11 |
1.4301 vs. 1.4404 Stainless Steel: Mechanical Properties
| Property | 1.4301 (304) | 1.4404 (316L) |
|---|---|---|
| Density (g/cm³) | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| Tensile Strength (MPa) | 520–720 | 480–680 |
| Yield Strength (MPa) | ≥ 210 | ≥ 220 |
| Elongation (%) | ≥ 40 | ≥ 40 |
| Hardness (HB) | ≤ 215 | ≤ 217 |
| Working Temperature | Up to 870°C | Up to 870°C |
Corrosion Resistance: Key Differences
The primary difference between 1.4301 and 1.4404 is their corrosion resistance.
1.4404 (316L) contains molybdenum (2-2.5%), which significantly improves its resistance to chloride and pitting corrosion in marine, coastal, and chemical environments. 1.4301 (304) performs well in atmospheric and mildly corrosive environments but is not recommended for use in saltwater environments.
Can 1.4301 And 1.4404 Be Welded Together?
Yes, stainless steels 1.4301 and 1.4404 can be welded together using standard welding methods like TIG or MIG. It's important to choose a compatible filler metal, such as an equivalent to AISI 308L, to ensure the weld's integrity.
Which Is More Expensive, 1.4301 Or 1.4404?
1.4404 is generally 10–15% More Expensive due to the added molybdenum and improved corrosion resistance.
| Grade | Product Type | Price (USD / Ton) |
|---|---|---|
| 1.4301 (304) | Cold Rolled Sheet | $2,200 – $2,500 |
| 1.4404 (316L) | Cold Rolled Sheet | $2,600 – $3,000 |
| 1.4404 (316L) | Welded Pipe | $3,100 – $3,400 |
Prices vary based on thickness, width, and surface finish. Contact Gnee for a real-time quotation.
Why Choose Gnee as Your Stainless Steel Supplier
18+ years of stainless steel manufacturing & export experience
Over 2000 tons of 304 / 316L coil, plate, and pipe in stock
ISO, SGS, BV certified products with EN 10204 3.1 MTC
Custom services: cutting, slitting, polishing, forming
Delivery: 7–15 days for ready stock
Flexible payment: T/T, L/C, or trade assurance
Packaging & Shipping
Packaging: Export-standard wooden pallets, waterproof film, steel strip bundling
Surface: BA, 2B, No.1, HL, Mirror #8
Shipping Ports: Tianjin, Shanghai, Ningbo
Typical Product Forms Available at Gnee
| Product Type | Available Grades | Thickness / Diameter Range | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Rolled Coil / Sheet | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | 0.3 – 6 mm | EN 10088-2, ASTM A240 |
| Hot Rolled Plate | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | 6 – 50 mm | ASTM A240 / EN 10088-2 |
| Welded / Seamless Pipe | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | 6 – 530 mm OD | ASTM A312 / EN 10217-7 |
| Strip Coil | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | 0.2 – 3.0 mm | ASTM A240 |
| Round Bar | 1.4301 / 1.4404 | 3 – 200 mm | ASTM A276 |
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