When comparing 304 stainless steel and 316, they both have advantages and disadvantages when deciding which one to use for different applications. For example, 316 stainless steel is more resistant to salt and other corrosives than 304. Therefore, if you are making a product that will be exposed to chemicals or marine environments on a regular basis, 316 is the better choice. On the other hand, if you make products that do not require high corrosion resistance, 304 is a practical and economical choice. For many applications, 304 and 316 are virtually interchangeable.