Get where you're coming from on this because the preheat thing is real and people act like you're crazy for doing it. Your sister isn't totally wrong though, since some stuff truly doesn't care, like reheating pizza, toasting a bagel, or warming up leftovers that are already cooked. But frozen breaded stuff and anything you want crispy on the outside? Skipping the preheat is just asking for sadness. The whole point is that the basket and the hot air need to hit the food fast to seal that crust before the inside steams itself. Three minutes is nothing compared to the microwave texture you get without it. You were right and she knows it, she's just mad about it.

I've got a Viking 3350 and honestly haven't had much to complain about. I've used it for MIG and stick and the lens is still nice and clear. Can't really speak for the other helmets because I haven't used them.