MSA Millennium vs Advantage 1000
People often ask about the differences between the Millennium and Advantage 1000 respirators from MSA, so here’s a summary of their similarities and differences.
For the most part, the millennium and advantage are mostly the same, most importantly they are:
- Aesthetically very similar
- Similar weight and comfort
- Constructed of the same materials
- Compatible with the same outserts and visors
- Compatible with the same VPU (clip on voice amplifier)
However, there are several differences to consider that would make one a better choice than the other given your needs:
| Feature | Millennium | Advantage 1000 |
|---|---|---|
| Port count | 1, or 2 if modified | 2 |
| Port connector | 40mm thread | Bayonet |
| Drinking tube | Yes | No |
| Exhaust port | Drinking tube holder | Circular outlet |
| Shipping Issues | Possible | None |
The most visually striking difference is that the advantage lacks a drinking tube and its holder. On the millennium this tube holder also serves as the exhaust, the area is replaced with a simpler circular exhaust on the advantage.
The main thing that will impact compatibility between them and other gear are the connectors at the inlets, the millennium uses standard 40mm threads and the advantage uses a proprietary MSA bayonet connector. The bayonet connector on the advantage is only a mild inconvenience for gear comparability, there are plenty of sources for DIY and commercial adapters between the two standards (although these may impact the aesthetic).
The other main difference to consider between the inlets on the two models is the number of inlets. Both have two, although most millenniums usually have one blocked unless modified which requires sourcing more parts.
Finally, it’s worth considering that, depending on where you live, a millennium might be much harder to obtain than an advantage. Many distributors will only sell them to government organisations, and there are various reports of shipments being stopped at the US border because of export restrictions. Make sure to ask your seller about these before buying a one if you’re outside of the US, and ideally pay with a service that has buyer protection!