The microstructure of two sets of 316L alloys (SLM and wrought structure) is determined using SPECTROMAXx stationary metal analyzer, FE-SEM/EDS and XRD. The physical–chemical properties of the passive films are also investigated by means of XPS, Auger after sputtering and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. Differences and similarities between the two sets of alloys are then identified. The corrosion behavior of alloys is investigated in NaCl solution at the macro- and microscale (microcapillary technique). It was found that the inclusion/particles cleanliness is the first-order parameter explaining differences between 316L(WS) and 316L(SLM). In the absence of particles (pure matrix), the two sets of alloys have the same corrosion behavior. Residual stresses, the average grain size, the PREN and the passive films properties are of second order.