I personally like the auto darkening hoods for 99% of my use. They run anywhere from around 89 bucks to over 400. Overall quality will generally follow the price line.
The auto hoods are a real benefit when doing a lot of repetitive tack or stitch welding on metals, particularly expanded metals.
They are no adverse visual affects related to the auto hoods that I am aware of. I've been using them for 35+ years and my vision is still excellent.
