SUS304 vs 18/10 Stainless Steel: What’s the Difference ?

If you're searching for the difference between SUS304 and 18/10 stainless steel, you're likely choosing materials for cookware, food processing, or industrial applications that require excellent corrosion resistance and hygiene.

While these two names are often used interchangeably, there's a subtle but important distinction:

What is SUS304 stainless steel?

SUS304 is the official name for austenitic stainless steel in the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS), equivalent to AISI 304.

What is 18/10 stainless steel?

18/10 stainless steel is a type of stainless steel containing approximately 18% chromium and 10% nickel. Compared to other grades of stainless steel, it offers superior corrosion resistance, durability, and luster. Chromium prevents rust by forming a protective oxide layer, commonly used in high-end tableware, cookware, and industrial applications.

 

SUS304 vs 18/10 Stainless Steel:  Chemical Composition 

Element	SUS304 (JIS G4304)	18/10 Stainless Steel (Typical)
Carbon (C)	≤ 0.08%	≤ 0.08%
Chromium (Cr)	18.0 – 20.0%	~18%
Nickel (Ni)	8.0 – 10.5%	~10%
Manganese (Mn)	≤ 2.0%	≤ 2.0%
Silicon (Si)	≤ 1.0%	≤ 1.0%
Phosphorus (P)	≤ 0.045%	≤ 0.045%
Sulfur (S)	≤ 0.030%	≤ 0.030%
Iron (Fe)	Balance	Balance

 

SUS304 vs 18/10 Stainless Steel:  Mechanical and Physical Properties

Property	SUS304	18/10 Stainless Steel
Density (g/cm³)	7.93	7.9
Tensile Strength (MPa)	≥ 520	500–600
Yield Strength (MPa)	≥ 205	~210
Elongation (%)	≥ 40	35–40
Hardness (HRB)	≤ 90	≤ 90
Melting Point (°C)	1400–1450	1400–1450

 

Corrosion Resistance and Durability

SUS304/18/10 stainless steel contains sufficient chromium to form a passivating oxide film, protecting the metal from corrosion. The 10% nickel content improves acid resistance and prevents pitting corrosion in chloride environments. It is ideal for humid, high-humidity, or slightly saline environments such as kitchens, breweries, and chemical plants.

Compared to 18/8 stainless steel, type 18/10 (SUS304) offers better oxidation resistance and higher gloss retention, which is why most high-end tableware and surgical instruments use 18/10.

 

18/10 stainless steel vs 316
18/10 stainless steel is a common term for 304 stainless steel, while grade 316 is a higher-end version of stainless steel that includes a small amount of molybdenum, making it more resistant to corrosion. 316 is better for harsher environments like marine or chemical processing, while 18/10 (304) is generally more affordable and sufficient for most everyday uses like kitchenware.

 

18/10 Stainless Steel vs. 430 Stainless Steel

18/10 stainless steel is a high-end non-magnetic alloy. Due to its 18% chromium and 10% nickel content, it offers superior corrosion resistance and stain resistance, making it ideal for manufacturing high-quality cookware and medical equipment. In contrast, 430 stainless steel is more affordable, magnetic, and easier to process. It contains 16-18% chromium and very low or no nickel, and is widely used in household appliances and automotive trim.

 

What's the difference between 18/8 and 18/10?
18/10 has a slightly higher nickel content (10% vs. 8%), which gives it better corrosion resistance and more shine.

 

What is the price of 18/10 (SUS304) stainless steel per kg?
Prices vary by finish and thickness, typically ranging from US$2.8 to US$4.2 per kg (FOB China) depending on order volume.

 

If you have any project requirements for SUS 304 stainless steel, please feel free to place an order. GNEE has a large inventory of popular products for you to choose from. It can be processed into both seamless and welded forms. For detailed chemical composition and free samples, please contact our factory immediately. We offer competitive prices and excellent service.Email: sales@gneestainless.com

 

Packaged with waterproof paper and steel strapping, meeting standard export sea freight packaging requirements, suitable for various shipping methods, or customized according to customer requirements.

SUS304 / 18-10 Stainless Steel Plate

Parameter	Specification
Standard	JIS G4304 / ASTM A240 / EN 10088-2
Grade	SUS304 / 18-10
Thickness Range	0.3 mm – 100 mm
Width	1000 mm – 2000 mm
Length	2000 mm – 6000 mm
Surface Finish	2B, BA, No.4, Mirror
Delivery Condition	Annealed and Pickled
Test Certificates	EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2
HS Code	7219 (Cold Rolled), 7220 (Hot Rolled)