304 vs 316 Stainless Steel
304 and 316 are the two most common austenitic stainless steels. They machine and weld similarly and have nearly identical mechanical properties — the real difference is molybdenum. 316 adds 2–3% Mo, which buys substantially better resistance to chlorides and harsh chemicals, at a higher price.
| Property | 304 | 316 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Austenitic 18/8 | Austenitic, Mo-bearing |
| Chromium | ~18% | 16–18% |
| Nickel | 8–10.5% | 10–14% |
| Molybdenum | — | 2–3% |
| Density | ~8.0 g/cm³ | ~8.0 g/cm³ |
| Yield (ASTM A240 min) | 205 MPa (30 ksi) | 205 MPa (30 ksi) |
| Tensile (ASTM A240 min) | 515 MPa (75 ksi) | 515 MPa (75 ksi) |
| Corrosion resistance | Good (general) | Better — chlorides, marine, chemical (Mo) |
| Magnetic (annealed) | No | No |
| Relative cost | Baseline | ~20–30% higher |
| Typical uses | Kitchen, architectural, general fab | Marine, coastal, chemical, medical |
Composition ranges per common AISI/ASTM specs; mechanical values are ASTM A240 annealed minimums (typical stock exceeds them). Confirm against the mill certificate for your material.
Choose 304 when…
Indoor or architectural use, kitchen and food equipment, general fabrication, and anywhere chloride exposure is low. It is the cost-effective default and the most widely stocked stainless.
Choose 316 when…
Marine or coastal exposure, salt or chemical contact, and many medical and food-processing applications. The molybdenum resists pitting and crevice corrosion that would attack 304.
Sourcing 304 or 316? Find U.S. stainless steel suppliers, or get a part quoted.
Find suppliersFrequently asked questions
- What is the main difference between 304 and 316?
- 316 contains 2–3% molybdenum, which sharply improves resistance to chlorides (salt, seawater, de-icing) and many chemicals. 304 has no molybdenum. Mechanically the two are nearly identical; the choice is almost always about corrosion environment and cost.
- Is 316 stronger than 304?
- Not meaningfully. Both meet the same ASTM A240 minimums (205 MPa yield, 515 MPa tensile, annealed). 316 is chosen for corrosion resistance, not strength.
- When should I pay for 316?
- Use 316 for marine/coastal exposure, chloride or chemical contact, and many medical/food applications. For indoor, architectural, and general fabrication, 304 is usually the cost-effective choice. 316 typically runs 20–30% more.