stainless steel 203 vs 304

Overview of SS 201 and SS 304

• SS 201 (UNS S20100, 1.4372): A low-nickel, high-manganese austenitic stainless steel, often used as a cost-effective alternative to 304 in less demanding applications. It’s specified under ASTM A240 for plates, sheets, and strips, similar to SA 240 GR 201 (see our sa 240 gr 201).
• SS 304 (SA 240 GR 304, UNS S30400, 1.4301): A chromium-nickel austenitic stainless steel with excellent corrosion resistance, formability, and SA 240 304 non magnetic properties, widely used in food processing, chemical, and structural applications.

Both grades have a density of ~8.00 g/cm³, but SS 304 outperforms SS 201 in corrosion resistance and durability, while SS 201 is more affordable.

Chemical Composition Comparison

The primary difference lies in nickel and manganese content, affecting corrosion resistance and cost:

• SS 201: Higher manganese and nitrogen compensate for lower nickel, maintaining austenitic structure but reducing corrosion resistance. Higher carbon (≤0.15%) can affect weldability.
• SS 304: Higher chromium and nickel enhance corrosion resistance and SA 240 304 non magnetic properties. Lower carbon (≤0.08%) improves weldability.

For detailed specs, refer to our SS 304 data sheet.

Mechanical Properties Comparison

• Tensile Strength: Both have a minimum of 515 MPa in annealed condition, but SS 201 can achieve higher strength in cold-worked states (up to 1000 MPa).
• Yield Strength: SS 201’s higher yield strength (260 MPa vs. 205 MPa) makes it slightly stronger under initial loads, but it’s less ductile.
• Elongation: Both offer ≥40% elongation, supporting forming for plat SS 304 3mm or plate 2 mm SUS 304.
• Hardness: SS 304’s lower hardness (≤201 HB) improves machinability compared to SS 201.

Corrosion Resistance Comparison

• SS 304: Excellent corrosion resistance in atmospheric conditions, freshwater, and mild acids (food-grade), due to higher chromium and nickel. Less resistant to chloride pitting compared to SA 240 GR 316L. See sa 240 gr 316l.
• SS 201: Moderate corrosion resistance, suitable for indoor or dry environments. It’s prone to pitting and rust in chloride-rich or humid conditions (e.g., coastal areas), making it less durable than SS 304 (SS204 vs SS 304 is a misnomer; SS 201 is the correct comparison).

Weldability

• SS 304: Good weldability with ER308 or ER308L fillers, though SA 240 GR 304L is preferred for critical welds to avoid sensitization. See sa 240 gr 304l.
• SS 201: Fair weldability, but higher carbon (≤0.15%) increases sensitization risk, requiring careful heat control or post-weld annealing.

Cost Comparison

As of October 14, 2025:

• SS 304: $1.55-$3.50/kg globally (2B finish, 3-6mm), with Gangsteel offering $1.60/kg FOB (MOQ 1 ton) for sa 240 gr 304.
• SS 201: ~20-30% cheaper, ~$1.20-$2.50/kg, due to lower nickel content, making it cost-effective for non-corrosive applications.

Applications

• SS 304: Preferred for food processing (tanks, plat stainless 304), chemical equipment, SA 240 GR 304 pipe, and architecture due to superior corrosion resistance and hygiene.
• SS 201: Used in indoor applications (e.g., appliances, decorative trim, low-cost utensils) where corrosion resistance is less critical.

For high-temperature applications, explore sa 240 gr 304h; for chloride environments, see sa 240 gr 317l.

Which is Better?

• Choose SS 304for:
  • High corrosion resistance (e.g., food-grade, chemical, or outdoor use).
  • Better weldability and formability.
  • Applications requiring SA 240 304 non magnetic properties and durability.
• Choose SS 201for:
  • Cost-sensitive projects with minimal corrosion exposure (e.g., indoor decorative parts).
  • Applications where slightly higher yield strength is beneficial.

Why Choose Gangsteel?

Gangsteel provides certified SS 304 plates at competitive SS 304 plate price ($1.60/kg FOB) and can source SS 201 (see sa 240 gr 201). Our inventory includes sizes like plate 2 mm SUS 304. For quotes, visit our astm a 240 stainless plate page or email admin@gangsteel.com.