SS 202 vs SS 304
SS 202 substitutes most of the nickel in 304 with manganese and nitrogen, making it 20–30% cheaper. It looks identical to 304 but corrodes faster, especially in humid or salty conditions. It is widely used in low-cost kitchen utensils and decorative work.
Side-by-side comparison
| Attribute | SS 202 | SS 304 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | AISI 202 / IS 6911 | AISI 304 / IS 6911 |
| Chromium | 17–19% | 18–20% |
| Nickel | 4–6% | 8–10.5% |
| Manganese | 7.5–10% | ≤ 2% |
| Nitrogen | ≤ 0.25% | ≤ 0.10% |
| Corrosion resistance | Moderate | Good |
| Magnetic response | Slightly magnetic when cold-worked | Non-magnetic when annealed |
| Typical price | 20–30% cheaper than 304 | Baseline |
| Best for | Indoor decorative, low-cost utensils, railings | Food processing, wet environments, long-life products |
When to choose SS 202
Use SS 202 when budget is critical and the application is indoor, dry, and cosmetic — railings, decorative panels, low-cost cookware.
Buy SS 202 on MetaleMartWhen to choose SS 304
Use SS 304 when the part will be wet, salty, acidic, or expected to last decades — sinks, dairy equipment, food processing, outdoor use.
Buy SS 304 on MetaleMartFrequently asked questions
Will SS 202 rust?
In humid, coastal, or wet environments — yes, faster than 304. In dry indoor conditions it can perform adequately for years.
Can a magnet distinguish SS 202 from SS 304?
Sometimes — 202 is more likely to be slightly magnetic. But the only definitive test is PMI or chemical analysis.
Is SS 202 food safe?
It is used widely in low-cost utensils, but for daily food contact in wet conditions, SS 304 is the safer long-term choice.