Welding is a complex and skilled trade, with many variables and different types of welding to consider. However, for beginners, MIG welding is often the easiest and most versatile option to start with.

MIG welding is a popular choice for many people as it is able to fulfill all of their needs. These machines are also more affordable than some other types of welders, making it a great option for hobbyists who want to add it to their tool collection.

MIG welding is a versatile and popular welding method that can be used for a variety of projects. In our latest project, we set out to determine which MIG welders are the absolute best. We’ve written up the following best MIG welder for beginners to share our findings with you.

What is Mig Welder?

MIG welding is one of the most common types of welding for fusing metals together. These machines are dependable and effective, producing good quality welds.

MIG welding is easy to learn and some machines are suitable for beginners. This type of welding can be used for auto body work and metal equipment maintenance.

MIG welders are great for welding aluminum, mild steel, and stainless steel, and can weld steel around half an inch thick. They produce strong, clean welds that can weld anything from thin sheet metal, and can even weld carbon steel.

Best MIG Welders Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Since the MIG welder was invented in the early 1800s, they’ve become the most popular welding machines around. They’re much easier to use than other types of welders, and while they don’t produce the most attractive welds like TIG machines do, they’re much faster for complex jobs.

With so many different machines to choose from, it’s no wonder they’re the most common welder found online. With all the different choices out there, it’s easy to get confused.

So which one should you choose? If you’re an experienced welder who has tried multiple different types of MIG machines, then the task is slightly easier; but for most people, it’s almost a guessing game without spending hours doing research.

We’ve been MIG welding for years and have done our research, so we know which MIG welders are the best. We’re not biased towards any brand, and our reviews show the good and bad sides of each machine.

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110v Best MIG Welder Reviews

If you’re in the market for a MIG welder, check out the reviews below for some of the best brands and models in the industry.

1. YESWELDER Digital MIG-205DS MIG Welder
2. Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder
3. Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder
4. Eastwood 180 Amp MIG Welder
5. Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder
6. YesWelder FIRSTESS MP200 5-in-1 Welder & Cutter

If you’re in the market for a MIG welder, then be sure to check out some reviews before making your purchase. Keep in mind that all MIG welders serve the same purpose, so it really comes down to finding the one with the right features for your needs.

No #01 YESWELDER Digital MIG-205DS MIG Welder

Looking for a great value on a MIG welder? Check out the YesWelder MIG-205DS. It’s not going to outperform the top brands in terms of quality, but it’s a great option for the average hobbyist that won’t break the bank. This welder can do it all–MIG, flux-core, stick, and even TIG welding.

Mig welders that offer dual voltage options usually have limited amperage output at 110V. However, the MIG-205DS has enough power for standard MIG welding tasks. With 160A of output at 110V, it provides more power than the Hobart 140 and 210.

Some brands, like Hobart and Lincoln, offer better arc stability. But the MIG-205DS only provides a decent arc for basic welding needs. So expect some spatter, arc fluctuations, and similar. The MIG-205DS has a digital display, but its interface is a bit complex.

The best part is that you can adjust everything to your liking, thanks to the infinite adjustability knob. Plus, the Synergic-MIG automatically sets the voltage and wire feed speed according to your material thickness selection.

For some people, this is not an issue considering these are home and small shop welders. But it’s worth mentioning that more expensive MIG welders like Hobart 140 and 210 have “fixed voltage values.”

The downside is that it’s tough to fine-tune your settings. But if you can get past that, you’ll get infinite dial settings on YesWelder 205DS for half the price.

This welder is pretty darn light and portable for its size and power. The handle on top makes it easy to grab and go.

If you’re looking for a more portable welding machine, the Eastwood 180 is almost 10lb lighter. In terms of build quality, the YesWelder 205DS is hard to beat in its price bracket.

This machine has a full metal wire drive system, which is tough to find in entry-level models. For example, the Lincoln Handy MIG welder reviewed below has a plastic feed system, but significantly fewer features and less power. The 205DS can’t weld aluminum. It’s not spool gun capable.

If this is a deal-breaker for you, you should definitely read the rest of the reviews below. The other MIG Pro 250A machine from YesWelder can actually handle aluminum, and it’s also on this list. Overall, this is still a great choice for beginners, small projects, DIY hobbyists, artists, and weekend warriors.

This welding machine is a great value for the money. It has a 1-year warranty, decent arc stability, lots of welding power, and an excellent duty cycle.

Specifications of YESWELDER Digital MIG-205DS MIG Welder

This machine can handle MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, as well as flux core wire welding. It can weld plain-carbon steel up to 3/4 inches thick. Additionally, it can weld steel and stainless steel materials. Finally, it uses DC current.

This welder can use both 110 or 220 volt input, is single phase, and has a max wire feed speed of 590 inches per minute. The amperage range is 30-200 amps for 220 volt input, or 30-160 amps for 110 volt input. The max wire roll diameter is 8 inches, and the weight is 33 pounds.

Pros

Cheap, a bunch of features, really high-duty cycle, high-quality build, lift arc start for TIG, dual voltage machine, full metal wire feeder, portable, 1-year warranty.

Cons

TIG torch not included.

No #02 Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder

Now, the Hobart handler 140 offers better quality than YesWelder, but it doesn’t have the perfect price-to-quality ratio. This means that you’re effectively paying more than you would if you compare it to other beginner welders on the market.

This welder is pricey, but it’s a transformer welding machine with great quality control, a leading warranty, and a beautiful arc. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of this welder, keep in mind that it has some great features that justify the cost.

Welders that are Durable, have good arc quality and minimal spatter but are also heavier and have smaller duty cycles are said to have better quality than most cheaper MIG welders. Lotos, Forney, and Yeswel are some examples of cheaper MIG welders.

The Handler 140 has a higher duty cycle than the 205DS, but the arc isn’t as smooth and stable. The maximum output of 140A also limits the thickness of steel that can be welded to 1/4 inch, as opposed to the 3/4 inch steel that the 205DS can handle. The first thing I find frustrating with Handler 140 is its poor duty cycle.

I wish the welder had more output power. You are only able to use 20% of the power at 90 amps, which is quite low. This will cause downtimes while the machine cools down unless you are just tack-welding metal or running small beads here and there.

The limited adjustability range on the 5-position voltage knob can be good or bad, depending on what you’re looking for. If you want a simple setup, it’s good. But if you want to be able to fine-tune your arc, it’s bad. In addition, the width, penetration, and height of your weld bead may not be satisfactory because of other factors that can affect your weld.

Today, many companies use infinite adjustability knobs to account for factors like metal and environment temperature and humidity, metal’s cleanliness, and others. If you want a good product that comes with quality components, Hobart is a great choice, even if it costs a bit more.

Just keep in mind that it’s heavier than most beginner welders with its 57 lbs, thanks to the transformer inside. If you are just learning how to weld and you know you’ll get a more powerful welder down the line, it’s probably better to get a cheaper machine than the Handler 140, or just get a Handler 2 and make it sound completely different by using a casual tone.

If you’re a hobbyist looking for maximum reliability and warranty, the Handler 140 is a good choice for gas metal arc welding, especially thin sheet metal work.

Specifications of Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder

This welder can do flux core wire and MIG welding on plain-carbon steel from 24-gauge to 1/4-inch thickness, as well as welding steel, stainless steel, and aluminum with a spool-gun. The input voltage is 110/115/120 V, 60 Hz.

Input Phase: 1-Phase. Current Type: DC. Rated Output Power: 90 A @ 20% Duty Cycle. Amperage Range: 25 A – 140 A. Wire Feed Speed: 40 IPM – 700 IPM. Weight: 57 lbs.

Pros

The Hobart Handler 210MVP is a great welder for beginners and pros alike. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to use and store. The setup is quick and easy, and it’s Versatile, so you can use it for a variety of projects. Plus, it comes with a 5/3/1 Hobart warranty.

Cons

The MIG welder has a small voltage.

No #03 Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder

The Lincoln Electric Handy MIG Welder is more affordable than some of the other options on the market, but it doesn’t offer as many features. Forney 140 MP and YesWelder 205DS are both in a similar price range and offer more features. Lincoln Electric is a serious USA brand, but this is their most basic unit.

This welder is meant for limited hobbyist use because its maximum output is only 88 amps. It has a duty cycle of 20% at 70 amps and can’t weld thicknesses greater than 1/8 inch, making it mostly suitable for thin sheet metal welding.

If you’re looking for a welder with decent build quality, the Lincoln Electric Handy MIG Welder is a good choice. And if anything does go wrong, Lincoln’s customer support will take care of you. That’s important for many people, especially beginners.

This welder is also a transformer-based welder, like the Handler above. This makes it more durable than most inverter units. It’s also very affordable, which is probably why Lincoln decided to make this unit.

This welder is supposed to be durable like the expensive ones, but it doesn’t have many features and isn’t very powerful. I don’t like that the wire feed system is made of plastic. It’s not flimsy, but plastic is not the way to go. This is the only welder with a plastic drive on our list.

If you’re looking for a reliable, basic MIG machine from an industry-leading brand, the Lincoln Electric Handy MIG is excellent value for the money. Just don’t expect anything too fancy from it.

It’s a great welder for learning the ropes, and it’s relatively cheap compared to other transformers. You can do MIG and flux core welding with it, and as long as you’re careful with it, the plastic parts should last.

Specifications of Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder

This welder can do both flux core and MIG welding, on materials like steel and aluminum. The thickness range it can weld is up to 1/8 inch for plain carbon steel. It can run on 110, 115, or 120 volt power, is single-phase, has a rated output of 70 amps at 17 volts and a 20% duty cycle, and can handle an amperage range of 35-88 amps. The wire feed speed is variable from 0-300 inches per minute, and it weighs 46 pounds (20.9 kg).

Pros

This welder is super easy to use and set up. You don’t need to be a welding expert to operate it, which is great. It’s also compact and portable, which is awesome.

Cons

This welder is not intended for industrial use. It only welds low-carbon steel up to 1/8″.

No #04 Eastwood 180 Amp MIG Welder

When it comes to MIG welders, the Eastwood MIG 180 is on the more expensive end of things. But you’re paying for extra features, a longer warranty, and slightly better build quality. If you’re looking for something cheaper, the YesWelder 205DS is a good option. It has a similar 3-year warranty to the Eastwood MIG 180.

This MIG welder is pretty interesting because it’s dual-voltage. If you’re not trying to get the most value for your money, it’s a better choice than the YesWelder 205DS. Of course, if you’re not interested in other welding processes, the 205DS provides that.

It’s not as good as the 205DS, but it’s a lot better than the Handler 140A. Additionally, its 110V input performance is only good for 120A output, which is way lower than the 160A at 110V that the YesWelder offers.

The Eastwood MIG 180 allows you to weld up to 5/16 in. on 220V and 3/16 in. thick with 110V input, making it a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and versatile welding machine.

This welder is great for everyday shop work and hobbyists. It’s powerful and supports a spool gun, making it perfect for beginners who want a great welder without spending a lot of money.

However, it doesn’t work well with thin metal. The results can be inconsistent. Additionally, its minimum amperage output is only 30A. On the other hand, the Handler 140 has a minimum amperage output of 25A but provides more stable, consistent results.

The only problem with this Eastwood model is that the gas inlet valve is in the middle of the back panel. Usually, welders have the valve on the side of the back panel so that the gas hose doesn’t get kinked if you’re using the welder on a wheeled cart.

The problem with their cart is that it pinches the gas hose, but most other cars have this problem too. However, it’s a pretty good MIG welder worth considering because it has a full metal wire drive system, decent quality MIG gun, and good unit housing build quality. Plus, it comes with a 3-year warranty.

It also comes with a great instruction manual – one of the best I’ve seen in the affordable welder market. It’s a fool-proof machine that anyone can learn to use quickly to make quality welds.

Specifications of Eastwood 180 Amp MIG Welder

This welder can handle thin 24 gauge plates all the way up to 5/16 inch thick ones. It works with plain-carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. You’ll need a 120/240V input and 1-phase for it to work. It’s uses DC current.

This welder has an output of 110V at 30% and 90A, and 220V at 30% and 180A. The amperage range is from 30 to 180 amps, and the wire feed speed is from 110V at 80 to 280 ipm, and 220V at 80 to 551 ipm. The weight is 25.3 pounds.

Pros

This welder has some great features – you can get it in a 2T or 4T option, and it has a tack weld mode. IGBT inverter technology makes it compact and lightweight. You have infinite control of the voltage and wire speed. Plus, it comes with a Tweco-style torch. The ground clamp has a braided wire strap. And it can weld up to 1/8″ aluminum (with an optional spool gun). For the price, this welder is a great value.

Cons

This welder’s short leads may not be ideal for some projects. Additionally, it doesn’t have a knurled drive roller, so you can only use 11-pound rolls of wire.

No #05 Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder

The Forney Easy Weld 140 is a great machine for those looking for a welder that can do it all. Like the YesWelder 205DS, it can do MIG, flux-core wire welding, stick, and DC TIG. However, it does come at a higher price tag than the 205DS and Eastwood.

This welder is perfect for hobbyists and light welding work. It’s portable, light, and has the most basic rugged features like rubber points at all 8 corners. So, it can handle a bit more rough handling than most beginner welders on this list.

The Forney Easy Weld 140 uses the same metal wire feed system as the Eastwood 180. This is a good design found in quality, low-priced machines. The Forney 140MP is easy to use, with its two infinite adjustability knobs and a single switch for welding processes.

If you’re looking for a light and affordable multi-purpose welder, the YesWelder Firstess is a great option. It’s significantly lighter than the Forney model at just 24.8 lbs, but it still offers more power and better performance.

The Forney 140 MP welder is just like the Hobart Handler 140, except it has a duty cycle of 30% and outputs 90A for MIG welding. This machine is more rugged and portable than the YesWelder and East, making it ideal for someone who needs a bit more power on the go.

The downsides are the higher price and lower welding power, but in my opinion the price is a bit too high considering Forney only offers a one year warranty.

Specifications of Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder

We can weld using Flux Core (FCAW), MIG (GMAW), STICK (SMAW), or TIG (GTAW) processes. The thickness of the weldable materials ranges from 24 gauge to 1/4 inches. The weldable materials include plain-carbon steel. The input voltage is 120v.

This welder can be used with 1-phase current and has a DC output. It’s rated for MIG at 30% @ 90A, but can range from 10 – 140 AMP output. The wire feed speed is 79 – 197 ipm and it weighs 24.8 pounds.

Pros

• This Forney welder is really easy to use, the wire loads quickly and the feed speed is adjustable.
• It’s also compact and lightweight, and very efficient. You don’t need much skill to operate it, which is great.
• It’s really portable too, which is awesome.

Cons

The welder doesn’t come with a gas regulator or TIG gear, and there’s no spool gun support.

No #06 YesWelder FIRSTESS MP200 5-in-1 Welder & Cutter

You can’t go wrong with the MP200 if you’re looking for a MIG welder for home and garage use. It’s got all the bells and whistles you need, plus it’s affordable. Trust me, I know what I’m talking about.

This welder is great because it supports both gas and gasless wire, and you can adjust the settings manually or automatically. Plus, the synergic controls make it easy to adjust the wire feed and voltage based on the amperage input.

If you’re just starting out, you’ll find it much easier to use an arc welder with a full metal drive system like the ones made by Hobart, Miller, or other brand names. This machine is built to last– it feels more premium and durable than other YesWelder machines.

The MP200 can actually handle rougher working conditions pretty well. Your MIG arc will be stable and there won’t be too much spatter. The inverter technology is designed to handle the electricity flow efficiently so you’ll have a nearly flawless experience.

You’re getting a much better deal with this machine than with most other brands. For example, Hobart 210 only does 30% at 150A, while this machine does 60% at 200A.

The MP200 is a great machine for beginners, DIY hobbyists, and light welding shop use. The only downside is that it can’t weld aluminum. Otherwise, it’s a great machine with no spool gun support or AC TIG.

It’s unrealistic to think that AC to TIG aluminum would be possible at this price point, but it would be worth considering spool gun support. After all, there is a model available that can MIG weld aluminum due to the graphene hose liner- the YesWelder MIG 250 Pro.

Hey, it would be cool if they introduced this feature on the MP200. But, let’s be honest, for the price you’re paying for this unit, you’re getting an amazing value. Dual voltage, portable, easy to use, large digital screen, 5 processes including plasma… You’re not going to find a better deal for light use.

This machine is great for anyone who doesn’t need to work with aluminum. It has excellent MIG capabilities and comes with everything you need to start welding.

Specifications of YesWelder FIRSTESS MP200 5-in-1 Welder & Cutter

This welder can handle MIG, TIG, MMA, and plasma cutting, with a metal thickness of .031″ to .27″ for MIG, .031″ to .098″ for TIG, and .059″ to .19″ for MMA. It can weld steel and stainless-steel materials.

This welder can be used with either 110 or 220V input power, and can handle either single-phase or three-phase power. DC current is the only type that can be used. The welder is rated for output of 60% at 68 degrees Fahrenheit, and 25% at 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The welder can handle an amperage range of 20-200A for MIG/FC/Stick/TIG welding, and 20-40A for plasma welding. Wire speed is adjustable from 2.2 to 16.4 yards per minute. The welder weighs 25 pounds.

Pros

The welder machine is really great because it comes with a plasma cutter and it’s dual voltage. The duty cycle is really high and the digital display is really large and intuitive. There are both automatic and manual controls which is really handy. Plus, there are 10 memory settings which is really useful. The wire feed system is also full metal which is great. Plus, everything you need comes in the box which is awesome. It’s definitely the best value for the money. And, the manufacturer war is only for one year.

Cons

Don’t recommend this welder machine for heavy-duty jobs. No option to weld aluminum.

220v Best MIG Welder

There are some great 220v MIG welders out there that pack a little more welding power. Usually, these models are more expensive, but they pack a lot more punch.

• YESWELDER MIG-250 PRO Aluminum MIG Welder
• Hobart – 500553 Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder
• Lincoln Electric Powermig 210 Mp #K3963-1
• MIG Welder, Handheld, 208/230VAC
• Hobart Ironman 240 with SpoolRunner 200

These machines can come in handy if you often weld thicker steel up to 1/8′ or aluminum. With more space to work with, you can focus on developing your hobby or profession.

When shopping for a MIG welder, be sure to check if the model is dual voltage (110V/220V). This feature makes the welder more mobile and versatile. Be sure to read reviews and compare features to make the best choice for your needs.

No #01 YESWELDER MIG-250 PRO Aluminum MIG Welder

This welder is powerful and can weld different materials. It’s especially good at welding aluminum without a spool gun.

Thanks to the graphene liner, U-type roller, and special A+ tips, it can join aluminum without needing a wire nest in the unit (no spool gun needed). This is an advantage over welders like the Hobart Handler 210 and Lincoln Power MIG 210.

If you want to weld aluminum with one of these machines, you’ll need to get a spool gun, which is an extra investment. The MIG Pro 250A is a more affordable option though, and it has an output of 250A.

You can’t go wrong with this 220V MIG welder. It’s got a decent build quality, digital display, and intuitive controls, and it can weld aluminum for less than $550. Plus, being an inverter welder from China, it’s a great value. However, keep in mind that it may not have flawless performance.

Lincoln’s Power MIG 210 produces a more consistent and smooth arc than this YesWelder unit, but it costs more than three times as much. You’ll need to weigh your options to decide which one is right for you.

The metal wire drive and good body build with sturdy plastic make this welder surprisingly well-made, much better than the YesWelder 205DS. The front panel is especially well-crafted, with a bigger screen and more resilient buttons.

Although it has the highest-rated duty cycle of any good quality cheap welder, keep in mind that you shouldn’t abuse it. It’s a sub $550 machine, so it’s not meant to be used all the time.

If you’re looking for a powerful welder that’s still affordable, and which can weld aluminum and has some advanced features, this is a good choice. You might sacrifice a little bit in terms of arc quality, but you gain portability and features like 2T/4T and synergic settings.

Specifications of YESWELDER MIG-250 PRO Aluminum MIG Welder

This welder can handle flux core (FCAW), MIG (GMAW), STICK (SMAW), and TIG (GTAW) processes, and can weld steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. It runs on 220/230/240 V, 60 Hz, and is 1-phase.

With a 60% duty cycle at 250 amps, this welder can handle most MIG welding jobs. For TIG welding, it has a maximum output of 220 amps and can weld at a 60% duty cycle. This welder can also handle SMAW welding at 250 amps and 60% duty cycle. The amperage range for MIG welding is 30-250 amps, for TIG welding it is 10-250 amps, and for Stick welding it is 20-225 amps. The wire range for MIG welding is 025”-.035” (0.6-0.9mm) solid steel, and .030”-.035” (0.8-0.9mm) Flux-Cored. The weight of the welder is 34 lbs.

Pros

This welding machine is way lightweight, welding is super smooth. Very affordable. Quality build. A ton of power and high duty cycle. Beginner-friendly. A spool gun is not needed to join aluminum. Provides lots of nice features like 2T/4T.

Cons

The TIG torch is not included in the package.

No #02 Hobart – 500553 Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder

If you’re looking for a great mid-range MIG welder, the Hobart Handler 210 is one of the best-selling options out there. And it’s not just because of the acronym MVP (which stands for “multi-voltage plug”), but because it’s truly a valuable player in the welding world.

Hobart’s weld quality, 5/3/1 warranty, and in this case, better amperage output and duty cycle compared to the Handler 140 make it a great choice for a transformer MIG welder. It’s more durable, but also heavier.

The Hobart Handler 210 is a heavy machine, weighing in at 79lbs. That’s almost twice the weight of the Lincoln Power MIG 210, so it’s not a good choice if you have to move it around a lot. The front panel is straightforward. It has infinite wire speed control but only seven preset values for voltage.

I hope Hobart updates this welder in the future and gives us infinite voltage control too. Almost every quality welder on the market has ditched the preset values in favor of fine-tuning the settings. The Hobart Handler 210 is built to last.

The premium price for this product is due to its high-quality features, including an industrial-grade cast aluminum wire drive, sturdy metal housing, high-quality plastics on the front panel, excellent gas valve quality, big fan blades for a high air-flow rate, and a transformer base.

This Hobart is lower on our list only because many people want affordable beginner welders. It’s a great MIG welder that’s often used for light professional work, not just DIY welding projects. Unlike YesWelder, Eastwood, and Forney, I wouldn’t be afraid to push this welder daily.

The Hobart Handler 210 is a great choice if you want excellent arc performance, outstanding durability, and a great welding experience. Plus, it has reliable thermal overload protection.

Specifications of Hobart – 500553 Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder

This machine can handle both Flux Core Wire (FCAW) and MIG (GMAW) processes, and can weld materials like plain-carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum (with spool-gun). Thickness range for welding is 24 ga. to 1/4 in.

The welder can be plugged into a standard 110/115/120 V outlet, and has a rated output power of 90 A at a 20% duty cycle. It can handle an amperage range of 25 A to 140 A, and has a wire feed speed of 40 IPM to 700 IPM. The whole unit weighs 57 lbs.

Pros

This welder is super easy to use, and it comes with a 5/3/1 Hobart warranty. It’s lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to use and store. And it’s versatile too!

Cons

Small voltage.

No #03 Lincoln Electric Powermig 210 Mp #K3963-1

This welder is great for arc quality, just like the Hobart above. It’s a professional welder offering many useful features.

The Hobart Handler 210 is an inverter, making it 50% lighter than other models. It also allows for infinite adjustability of voltage, wire speed, and amperage. This machine is extremely versatile and provides a great arc.

Although the Power MIG 210 costs twice as much as the Hobart Handler 210, it is a dual voltage multi-functional welder that supports MIG, Flux-core, TIG, and stick welding processes. The Hobart Handler 210 is only 220V and does not stick or TIG weld.

It’s a close second to YesWelder Firstness in terms of color and menu quality, thanks to its big digital display. The front panel also has three infinite adjustability knobs and two buttons arranged for easy use.

It’s tough to find many bad things to say about this MIG welder, other than the price, when compared to other welders in our comparison. However, since it’s pretty pricey, I have to take a closer look. First off, the spool gun for aluminum is sold separately.

The Lincoln Magnum PRO 100SG spool gun costs an extra $300, and if you want to TIG weld with it, you’ll need to buy a TIG torch and pedal separately. So the total cost of the welder will be significantly higher.

The MIG gun and ground clamp that come with the welder are 10ft. long, which should be fine for most hobbyists. However, I would have liked it to be at least 12ft long for the price. The MIG gun is slightly better than Hobart’s, but I prefer the additional protection of the lead near the connector on Lincoln’s.

While it’s still portable at 40lbs, it’s nearly double the weight of the YesWelder Firstess MP200. Both offer pretty much the same level of multi-process abilities and adjustability. However, Lincoln’s superior arc and build quality come at the price of increased weight.

This isn’t a criticism, but something you should keep in mind as you weigh your options. It has a maximum output of 210A, but the minimum output is worth mentioning too. With 20A on the low side, you can confidently weld thinner metal without worrying about burn-through.

However, it’s not the best at 25% duty cycle with 200A output. That’s not too bad considering the weld quality. You can’t find machines with high duty cycles and a beautiful arc made by industry-leading brand names for less than 2-3000 dollars.

So you either make a compromise on one of those things or get something that costs twice as much. The build is superior to every welder in our comparison.

The sheet metal body is thick and sturdy, the plastics don’t feel flimsy, the knobs offer a good tactile experience, and the screen is only beaten by YesWelder MP200. Power MIG 210 and Ironman 240 (reviewed last) are the most professional welders in our MIG welder reviews.

This machine has an angled cast aluminum wire feed system for better wire feeding and durability. Plus, it has two cooling fans on the back to keep it from overheating.

The Lincoln 210MP has better fans than the YesWelder MP200, which is in line with its price.

Lincoln Electric Powermig 210 Mp #K3963-1 Specifications

Weld up to 5/16″ mild or non-rusting metal alloys with MIG, or weld aluminum* up to 3/16″ with Flux-Cored (self- and gas-shielded) welding. For the big jobs, use DC Stick welding to handle up to 5/32″.

The DC TIG welding process is made possible by Touch Start TIG technology, and it can be used on materials like steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. The input voltage for this machine is 115/230/1/60Hz, and it is a 1-phase machine. DC current is used for this welding process.

Output rating: 120V at 100A and 19.0V, 40% duty cycle; 230V at 200A and 24V, 25% duty cycle. Amperage range: 120V at 20-140A DC, maximum OCV 56; 230V at 20-220A DC, maximum OCV 56. Wire speed: 50-500 inches per minute (1.3-12.7 meters per minute). Weight: 40 pounds.

Pros

This welder is super easy to set up and use. The digital controls and large color display make it a breeze. It only weighs 40 lbs, so it’s very lightweight and portable. It has lots of great features and options that are easy to access.

Cons

The downside is that it can’t handle mass production, and the welding gun lead is a little short for the price.

No #04 MIG Welder, Handheld, 208/230VAC

Lincoln’s PowerMIG 180C is a more affordable option than the Power MIG 210MP, but it doesn’t have as many features and isn’t as powerful. It’s a 220V welder, so you can’t use it with a 110V outlet.

This welder’s got five pre-set voltage values and a limited range of adjustability. The wire feed and amperage, on the other hand, have an infinite adjustability knob. The front user interface is pretty similar to the Hobart Handler 210. It’s easy to use but can be limiting if you need more arc modification.

This welder is a bit on the heavy side at 64lbs, but it makes up for it with a longer lifespan and better weld quality. With an output range of 30-180A and a duty cycle of 30% at 130A, it’s comparable to other welders on the market.

The Power MIG 180C from Lincoln Electric has a cast aluminum drive system that’s similar to what you’d find on the 210MP model, although it’s not as high quality. This welder also has a feature that allows you to feed wire at an angle, which is something that other brands like Eastwood and YesWelder don’t offer.

This welder’s MIG gun is of modest quality and looks like something you’d find on a much cheaper machine. For a similar MIG gun, you can check out the Eastwood 180 or YesWelder 205DS, both of which cost less than half of the Lincoln Electric Power MIG 180C.

This is a good transformer-based MIG welder, but it’s not the best value for the money. That’s okay; not every welder will be. Just make sure you get it for the right reasons.

If you’re a welder who’s looking for a machine that’s reliable and has a good arc quality, this is a good choice for you. It’s not as adjustable as some other machines, and it’s a little heavier, but it’s worth it in terms of quality.

MIG Welder, Handheld, 208/230VAC Specifications

We can weld steel, aluminum, and other non-rusting metal alloys using MIG (GMAW) or self-shielded Lincoln Innershield® (FCAW-S) wires. For MIG welding, we can weld 24 gauge up to 3/16 in (4.8 mm), and up to 1/2 in. (12.7 mm) for steel using self-shielded Lincoln Innershield® (FCAW-S) wires.

This welder can run on 208, 230, or 1-phase power at 60Hz, and has a rated output of 130A at either 17V (for 208 power) or 20V (for 230 power), with a 30% duty cycle. The amperage range is 30-180A and the wire speed is 50-500 ipm (1.3-12.7 m/min). It weighs 80 lbs.

Pros

The welder is great for industrial use, with a sturdy build and high-quality accessories. It can weld up to 1/2″ thick materials, and is spool gun ready. The cast aluminum wire drive mechanism ensures a stable arc and smooth wire feed. And it comes with a 3-year warranty.

Cons

Not recommended for heavy-duty jobs, high-end welder, heavy, can be hard to move without a welding cart.

No #05 Hobart Ironman 240 with SpoolRunner 200

The Hobart IronMan 240 is a heavy duty transformer welder that is big and difficult to move, but provides an impeccable Hobart’s arc, lasts a lifetime, and provides massive power output. The IronMan 240 is a successor to the extremely popular IronMan 230 MIG welder from Hobart.

It’s got more welding power and infinite adjustability voltage control, which is why I hope Hobart’ll improve the Handler 210 in the future.

This welder can output up to 280A and has a wire feed speed of 700 IPM, so you can weld thicker metal and fill in large openings if needed. The Hobart Ironman 240 also has a 60% duty cycle at 200A.

I feel confident in pushing IronMan to its limits daily, unlike some of the cheaper machines out there with a similar duty cycle. This unit is way more durable than any other welder on the list, especially inverters, so you can count on it to get the job done.

This welder requires a 70A fuse if you’re inputting 240V, or an 80A breaker if you’re inputting 208V. Keep in mind that breakers like these usually aren’t installed, so you might have to make an additional investment. Also, this welder weighs almost 190lbs, so it’s not exactly portable.

This welder has built-in running gear that’s great for small movements around the shop. Plus, it has a spool gun for welding aluminum, which makes it a great choice if you’re welding aluminum regularly.

If you’re looking for a great MIG welder that will last a lifetime, the Hobart IronMan 240 is a great choice. It’s not the most portable option, but it’s more than capable of handling most aluminum welding needs thanks to its excellent heat dissipation.

The 240 is a great machine–powerful, with a great duty cycle and arc stability. It’s also built really well, making it worth the price tag. It’ll be as popular as the 230, if not more so–good luck finding one in stock!

Hobart Ironman 240 with SpoolRunner 200 Specifications

This welder can output 60% of its rated power at a 200A duty cycle. Its amperage range is from 30A to 280A, and it can weld at speeds of 0 to 700 IPM. It weighs 186 lbs.

Welding processes: Flux Core (FCAW), MIG (GMAW). Metal thickness: Low-carbon steel 24 GA. (0.8 mm) – 1/2 in. Weldable materials: Steel, Aluminum, inox. Input voltage: 220/230/240V. Input phase: 1-Phase. Current type: DC.

Pros

• The machine is easy to use and gives a professional quality arc.
• It has an infinite wire speed and voltage dial, which makes it easy to adjust.
• It also has a built-in cooling system, which keeps the machine running smoothly.
• The machine is also very durable, due to its high-quality build.
• It is a transformer-based professional welder, which makes it very powerful.

Cons

The welder is on the heavier side, weighing in at 186lbs. Additionally, the power and ground cables are on the shorter side. Lastly, you’ll need a 230v or 240v outlet to use this welder with household outlets.

Basics of MIG welding for the newer welders as they get started

We’ve decided to add a section on MIG welding basics. This will be helpful for new welders as they get started.

Equipment Preparation

Before you start welding, it’s a good idea to check everything and make sure your equipment is properly set up. This means:

• Checking the cables – making sure they’re tightly fitted and free of fraying;
• Selecting electrode polarity – DC electrode or reverse polarity for MIG welders.
• Set the gas flow to 20-25 cubic feet per hour by turning on the gas cylinder valve
• Check that the tension is not too loose or too tight, as this can affect wire feeding performance
• Inspect the consumables, such as contact tubes and tips, for any excess spatter or wear and tear.

Metal Preparation

To get the best welds, start by cleaning the area with a wire brush or grinding stone. Remove any dirt, debris, or corrosion from the weld groove and around 0.7 inches from it. You’ll want to clean the metal until it’s shiny on both sides of the plate.

If you’re welding, it’s also a good idea to preheat the area you’re about to weld. This will remove moisture and make for a better metal join and a more stable arc.

The fact that these welders work on 120v and 220v household current instead of industrial grade MIG Welders is actually a good thing, since they have less power and ability to remove dirt from the weld pool.

Selecting the Wire

Thin wire (.023 or .030 in.) is less likely to cause burning through light materials, while thicker MIG wire (.045 in.) is better for fusion when welding more abundant metals. The two most common wire types are ER70S-3 and ER70S-6. ER70S-3 is a good all-purpose welding wire.

The ER70S-6 wire is usually for welding on dirty or rusty surfaces, when more deoxidizers are needed.

The size of wire you use for gas welding won’t necessarily dictate which machine you buy, but the machine you choose will affect the size and type of wire you’ll need.

The push or pull technique

When it comes to welding, one of the greatest questions is whether to use the push or pull technique. The push technique, or forehand, means moving the gun away from the weld puddle. This creates a flatter and wider bead but with less penetration.

The pull technique, whether you’re using a drag or backhand motion, means pointing the welding gun back at the weld puddle and dragging it away. This will create a narrower bead with more buildup, but deeper penetration.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to which technique is best. The best approach varies depending on the material, equipment, and process you’re using.

Travel Angle and Work Angle

The travel angle is the angle of the gun in relation to the surface you’re welding. In most cases, the angle should be 5 to 15 degrees, because a 20 to 25 degree angle will create more spatter and less penetration.

The work angle is the angle formed by the gun position and the angle of the welding joint. This angle varies based on the position and configuration of the joint. Therefore, the butt weld should be kept at a 90-degree angle to the workpiece, the T-joint should be kept at a 45-degree angle, and the lap joint should be kept at a 30-degree angle.

Voltage and Amperage

There are a lot of factors to consider when deciding on the voltage and amperage settings, such as the thickness of the metal, welding position, joint configuration, wire diameter speed, and welding gas.

Buyer’s Guide for Choosing the best MIG welder

Our team has put together a buyer’s guide with all the info you need to find the perfect MIG welder for your needs. We’re confident it’ll help you out in your search.

Wire setting up your MIG welder

When welding with a MIG welder, there are two things you need to keep in mind – the wire feed speed and the voltage. The wire feed speed is important because it controls the amperage. You can usually find the wire feed charts on the MIG machine itself.

The best way to set your wire feed speed is about 10% lower than the recommended settings. If there are no charts on the machine, just do a test run on a piece of scrap metal.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you hear a sizzling sound, like when you’re frying bacon in a pan.

Check the Voltage Settings

You’ll want to make sure your voltage settings match your wire feed speed settings. This will help ensure efficient metal transfer. Keep in mind that voltage also affects arc length, and too much voltage can cause your wire to melt off.

If you don’t balance the wire feed speed and voltage correctly, you won’t get good penetration. For example, if you keep the voltage the same but lower the wire feed speed, you’ll get more spatter and less penetration.

Focus with input power

The main focus of input power is that it has to be matched to the type of primary power available. You don’t see many DIY welders working on pieces of metal thicker than ¼ inches very often, because it requires 100 amps for welding and 20 amps for plasma cutting.

A lower-voltage MIG welder can provide you with these parameters, but for thicker pieces of metal, a machine that covers a wider range of voltages works better.

Choose your input power source carefully – a single-phase input (like in a home or garage) produces 115, 200, or 230 VAC, while a three-phase (industrial work) creates 230, 460, or 575 VAC.

You can find some machines that accept both single and three-phase power – with multi-voltage and no manual re-linking.

Determining output power

When welding, you need to factor in the thickness of the metal and the diameter of the wire. As a general rule of thumb, use one amp of power for every .001 inch of mild steel.

Welding 1/8 inch of low-carbon steel would require around 125 amps. Stainless steel would need about 10% less power while aluminum would require about 25% more.

The diameter of a wire electrode is determined by the amount of current it can carry. Larger electrodes can carry more current than smaller ones.

The duty cycle of a welding machine

The duty cycle is basically the percentage of time in a 10-minute period that you can weld with a specific amperage. So, for example, if you have a welder that’s rated for a 30% duty cycle at 200 amps, that means you can weld continuously for 3 minutes at 200 amps before you need to take a break for 7 minutes to let it cool down.

The whole story is pretty simple, but there’s more to it than that. Welding machine duty cycles depend on multiple factors, but the big one is the quality of the machine. So let’s discuss duty cycles in more detail.

Calculate Duty Cycle In Welding

To find the duty cycle, check the welder’s spec sheet or the spec plate at the back of the welder. You’ll usually see something like 20% at 140A, for example, or multiple values.

Some welders can handle more output amperage than others, and some nicer brands will include a whole duty-cycle amperage curve diagram in the instruction manual.

The image above depicts the duty cycle chart of the Hobart Ironman 240 MIG welding machine. As you can see from the diagram, the 200A output horizontal line intersects just below the 60% duty cycle line. In other words, the welder is capable of outputting 200A at a 60% duty cycle.

This MIG welding machine can weld continuously for 6 minutes at a 200 amperage output, which is the equivalent of 10 minutes of welding at a lower amperage.

The Purpose Of A Duty Cycle Rating

Welding machines have a duty cycle limit to prevent sensitive internal components from heat damage. Most welders will experience significant damage if their duty cycle is breached. Even if the machine continues to function as usual after it cools down, this is still true.

Many welding machines can breach their duty cycle many times before breaking, but many manufacturers place a dire warning in their instruction manuals saying not to exceed the duty cycle. Sometimes continuously breaching the duty cycle limits will void your warranty.

Factors that Affect the Duty Cycle

The duty cycle is affected by nearly everything, making it tough to get a welding machine that perfectly matches real-life conditions. The actual welding time can be off by a little or a lot, depending on various factors.

Ambient Temperature

Most welding machines are rated for duty cycles at a specific ambient temperature. The industry standard is usually 104 F, but it’s always a good idea to check your machine’s instruction manual just in case.

If you weld at a higher temperature than the welder is rated for, you’ll get a lower duty cycle. The same goes for welding in a cooler environment – you’ll get more welding time before the machine needs to cool down.

It’s harder to hit the duty cycle limits in autumn/winter than in spring/summer, which is especially true when welding outdoors. Hot climates like in California, Texas, and Florida, or even worse in Australia, take a toll on the welder.

If you want to weld when it’s hot, it’s always a good idea to buy a machine with a higher duty cycle.

Amperage Output

The duty cycle of a welder is determined by its power output – the higher the power output, the shorter the duty cycle. Conversely, if you lower the amperage output, the duty cycle increases. Some machines are rated with a 100% duty cycle at a lower amperage output.

You can weld forever with this thing. Check out the Hobart Ironman 240 graph—it can run at about 140A without needing to cool down. But, of course, that all depends on the ambient temperature.

You can avoid hitting the duty cycle by lowering the amperage below the welder is rated. This will give you more welding time.

Welder Quality

So, what happens if those thermocouples aren’t placed near the sensitive components inside the welder? There could be a delay between the moment the critical part breaches its maximum allowed temperature and when the thermocouple senses the heat and sends a signal to shut down the machine. Or, what if the thermocouple isn’t sensitive enough to pick up on the heat?

Well, that’s not good. That’s why you should buy welders from tried and tested brands. There is a reason why a random, imported brand will die sooner than quality machines from Miller, ESAB, or Hobart. Better brands have more access to quality parts and have qualified engineers.

If You Need A Welder, Do You Need A High Duty Cycle Welder?

You don’t need a high-duty cycle welder unless you do a lot of welding. Even if you’re a professional, you can manage with the low-duty cycle machine. The duty cycle will just be a bottleneck for your business.

It’s always better to have a longer duty cycle, but it usually comes with a higher price tag. But you’ll have less downtime. Hobby welders don’t need more duty cycles. However, if there’s a welder with a better duty cycle at the same price as the welder with a lower duty cycle, it’s better to go for the one with the longer duty cycle.

How To “Extend” The Duty Cycle of a Welder?

You can’t really extend the duty cycle, but you can help prevent thermal overload by keeping the welding machine away from other objects and walls so that its ventilation openings are not obstructed. Additionally, ventilate the room you are welding in.

You’ll need good ventilation anyway because welding fumes are dangerous, but it also helps keep the machine cool. Try not to weld continuously unless necessary; continuous operation doesn’t let the machine cool down between welds, and the power supply will eventually overheat.

Wire Feeder Mechanism Durability

Some of the best wire feeders are made out of metal or aluminum. The three main types are push, pull, and push-pull. It’s important not to skimp on the wire feeder, as the better quality ones can withstand more wear and tear.

If you’re going to be MIG welding a lot, avoid the ones with a plastic mechanism – they’re not built to last. Also, remember to replace the drive rolls every now and then. You’ll find them in the push and push-pull feeders.

When you’re welding, it’s important to use the right drive rolls to ensure that your wire is fed correctly and constantly. The most common types are V-knurled, V-groove, and U-groove.

Non-Industrial (110v and 220v MIG Welders)

When it comes to choosing the right wire, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Both flux core and MIG welding have different characteristics that welders need to take into account.

There are a few things a welder has to consider when choosing the right wire for the job: the thickness of the material being welded, voltage and wire feed speed control, the correct protective gas, location, and weld appearance.

It’s really just a matter of what you’re trying to achieve and what you’re using it for – there’s no need to get hung up on whether solid wire or flux core wire is better.

Solid wire is best for deep penetration and minimizing spatter. Flux-core wire produces less spatter, but has a larger ball-type transfer. Both self-shielded flux-cored wire and gas-shielded flux-cored wire are effective. The main thing to focus on is how you apply it and for which type of work.

Weight and Portability

When choosing a MIG welder, performance is key. But you also want to think about the size of the machine – especially if you have limited space, or don’t want to lug around a huge one. Welders can range from 40lbs. to several hundred pounds. It all depends on the features and power you need.

If you’re gonna be movin’ your welder around a lot, ya might wanna consider gettin’ one of them carts. They make it a whole lot easier.

In terms of auto bodywork, a welding cart is ideal for moving around a car smoothly. Alternatively, you could weld up your own welding cart. You can find the wheels for this at Harbor Freight or on Amazon, or potentially even in your local store.

You can use ticker material and stronger metal pipes to build a cart that will never fail you. Note: if you plan on this, don’t forget to build in a gas cylinder rack on it with room for removing the gas valve (a box for welding tools would be nice too).

The role of branding in choosing the MIG Welders

When it comes to brands, the welding industry has a few staples that are commonly recognized. However, it’s unclear if there’s an “iPhone” equivalent among MIG welders.

Welding brands come in all shapes and sizes, but Miller Electric and Lincoln Electric are two of the most popular in the US. If you’re looking for a TIG welder or shielded arc welder, Lincoln Electric is your go-to product. And when it comes to durability, industrial welders can’t be beat.

Hobart is known for making lots of reliable non-industrial GMAW welders, and is the parent company of Miller Electric. If you want a machine that’s built to last, ESAB is your best bet.

Branding may not be as important for welders intended for home use. Home hobbyists who are looking for welders for smaller projects and repairs can find good value in a less expensive machine.

It’s usually better to go with a bigger, more well-known brand when it comes to industrial machines. However, for smaller jobs, lesser known brands work just as well and can help you save some money.

So, if you’re looking for a GMAW welder, brands like Hobart or Miller are always a safe bet. But if you do your research, you can find great machines from less well-known manufacturers that are just as good – and often more affordable.

Selecting Gas Cylinder and Gas

If you’re using a solid welding wire for MIG welding, you’ll need shielding gas to make it work. And to get everything running smoothly, you’ll want to use the right gas combination for your shielding.

The most commonly used gas mix for welding is 75% argon and 25% carbon dioxide, known as 75/25 or C25. This mix is great for welding carbon steel, as it creates nice-looking beads, doesn’t cause too much spatter, and won’t burn through thinner materials.

If you’re looking for better MIG gun cooling and slightly deeper penetration, a 100% CO2 gas is your best bet. However, the bead won’t look as good and you’ll end up with more spatter. These gas mixtures usually come in 40, 80, or 125 cubic feet cylinders.

You’ll need to choose a welder depending on how much welding you plan to do. For home use, either type of welder will work fine unless you’re planning on working on a really big project.

The 80 and 125 cubic feet versions of the cylinders are too heavy to move around, except for the first one. You’ll need a cart for your welder in that case.

Spool Gun For Aluminum

Welding aluminum is a bit more tricky than other materials. You need to use specific equipment for aluminum welding, which is especially important for the aluminum wire being fed. This wire is soft and can easily break if you don’t have the right equipment.

If you want to MIG weld aluminum, you’ll need a welder with a spool gun attachment. Or, even better, get a machine that comes with a MIG spool gun.

Spool guns are a lot easier and more convenient to use, especially if you’re welding softer or smaller-diameter wire. They’re also a good choice for people who often switch between welding steel and aluminum.

MIG Welder Safety

MIG welders are exposed to hazardous elements every day, which can pose risks like electric shock, fires, and other illnesses. These risks are present as soon as you enter the workplace.

If you want to avoid the risks associated with MIG welding, make sure to follow the safety tips provided by welding safety organizations. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the potential dangers and give you some tips on how to prevent them or what to do if they occur. If you follow the precautions listed below, you should be able to stay safe while welding.

Basic safety measures and best practices in the workplace or garage

There are some things you won’t be told about welding that you really should know. It might cost you if you don’t, but luckily we’re all friends here so I’m going to share some safety tips that could keep you from harm.

Always keep a soap water bottle close to the gas regulator

If you’re working in a noisy workshop or construction site, it can be tough to notice a gas leak. So, it’s helpful to have a water bottle with some soap handy.

If you’re not sure if your regulator is functioning properly, just pour some soapy water on it. If you see bubbles, that’s a clear sign that it’s faulty and you’ll need to either tighten it or replace it.

Always Keep the Power Cables and Gas Hose Away from the Sparks

Organize your work area so that the power cables and gas hoses are not under the table or stacked around it. Basically, keep them away from the sparks and spatter area. Flying sparks can damage the cables and hose, particularly the hose as it can easily get ruptured. Be extra careful when using oxy-acetylene welding, as the sparks could easily ignite the gas.

Keep a Safe Distance For Gas Cylinder Always

Just make sure to store your gas cylinders upright and away from the welding area. Position them as far from the working area as possible to avoid any sparks, hot slag, or flame.

If you can’t place them far enough away, put a fire-resistant shield between them. You also need to position them so they can’t be part of an electrical circuit. Don’t hit electrodes against a cylinder, or you’ll risk creating an arc.

Don’t Use Old Power Breakers Always Use New Power Breakers

MIG welders need a lot of power, so you need to have good wiring. Make sure your breakers are either new or in good condition. The size of the breaker depends on how much current the machine needs.

A welder that operates on 27 amps requires a 30-amp circuit breaker. The wire gauge must also be considered when deciding on the appropriate circuit breaker size. For example, a circuit that has a 20-amp circuit breaker will require a minimum of 12-gauge wire. In other words, a 220v welder will require a 30-40 amp circuit breaker while a 115v machine will need a 20-30 amp circuit breaker.

Pre-Operation Safety

Welding hazards can occur before you even start welding. But there are a few things you can do to stay safe. Being organized is key, and all you need to do is follow welding safety practices and use the proper safety equipment. This will help ensure a safe welding environment.

Provide a Clean Workspace

A clean work area is important for reducing the chances of accidents during arc welding, including MIG welding. Be sure to get rid of any dirty plates that could contaminate unknown substances.

Be sure to remove any grease, paint, or coating from your workpiece, and flammable items from your area before starting an arc. This will reduce potential injuries, and fire and create a protected area.

Remove All Nearby Flammable Materials

Keep in mind that MIG welding involves hot work, sparks flying all around, and molten metal even several feet away. If it comes into contact with flammable materials, it could cause a fire.

You can minimize the risk of fire by removing any flammable liquids from the workspace and by checking the flame retardant qualities of the walls. Using a concrete floor in your workshop will also help to reduce the risk of fire.

Check the Ventilation System

Toxic fumes are a byproduct of welding, but you can take measures to keep them out of your breathing area. However, it’s important to remember that vapors can cause severe damage to your respiratory system.

Ventilation is important in the workplace. If recommended, use respiratory protective equipment and local exhaust ventilation. Be careful when working with carbon dioxide, and use a higher percentage of argon during pulse-spray transfer to reduce the risk of gas-related problems.

Remove all jewelry and loose items before welding

Before starting a welding protection course, you will learn to remove all jewelry and loose items, as well as to tie back long hair. This is to prevent any accidents that may occur.

The main risk with loose clothes, welding equipment, and long hair is that the grinder can grab hold of them if you’re not careful. That can cause some serious damage.

Weld spatter can really ruin your jewelry and clothes, and it can also burn you. To avoid these injuries, it’s best to tie up your hair and remove loose items and jewelry. Having a clean nozzle also helps to reduce spatter.

Inspecting connections and gas lines is essential

Before you start welding, make sure to check all the lines and connections. MIG welding uses high-pressure shielding gas, which comes out of the bottles or cylinders.

There are a few things you should keep in mind when working with cylinders: always keep them chained up, don’t cap them, and make sure they’re tested and up to OSHA standards. Plus, position them away from potential hazards. And when using a high-pressure bottle, be extra careful.

Safety Equipment for MIG Welding

Welding safety equipment is not so different from other protective clothing. Here is a quick list of welding safety equipment you need to provide before actually welding.

No #01 Welding Helmet

Welding helmets protect your eyes and keep you safe from harmful UV rays. A shade 10 or 11 lens auto-darkening helmet will provide the proper eye protection you need.

No #02 Welding mask

This welding hood will keep your face and head safe from UV rays and arc flash burns. You can wear it underneath your welding helmet for extra protection.

No #03 Welding Safety glasses

When you’re doing any kind of welding or grinding, it’s important to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from sparks and flying spatter.

No #04 Welding gloves for safety

Gloves made of leather with insulation can protect you from electrical shock and burns caused by heat, sparks, or molten metal. Some welding gloves even have a reflective coating to protect against the intense heat of welding heavy plates.

No #05 Using Long pants

Cotton, leather, and fire-retardant materials are the best choices for pants fabric. Denim is also a good choice for pants fabric because it helps protect your body from arc radiation.

No #06 Use Leather boots

Leather boots are a great way to protect your feet from sparks and falling objects. One of the best ways to protect your feet from sparks and falling objects is to wear leather boots. Leather is a natural material that is extremely durable and resistant to fire. This makes it an ideal material for boots that will be exposed to high temperatures and potential sources of ignition.

No #07 Wear Welding jacket

A leather welding jacket is an important piece of gear for anyone who plans on doing welding work. Not only do they look cool, but they also serve an important purpose in protecting your body from harmful sparks, spatter and weld arc radiation.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a welding jacket. First, you’ll want to make sure it is made from high-quality leather that is thick enough to protect you from heat and sparks. Second, the fit should be snug but not too tight, as you don’t want it to restrict your movement. And finally, make sure it has a good length – you don’t want it to be too short and expose your skin to dangerous welding materials.

A few specific concerns that you should be aware of

When it comes to MIG welding safety, there are some particular issues you need to be aware of. Some of these concerns can affect your health slightly, but others can even cause death without any notice. So MIG welders should always pay close attention to things like Wire feeders, Shielding Gases, Welding Fumes, and Allo.

No #01 Wire Feeder Safety Issues

When you’re welding, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers of the hot metal droplets that can come from the electrode stick-out. If these droplets come into contact with your skin, they can cause serious burns.

If you change your MIG welding gun tips or wire, you might accidentally press the trigger and give yourself a little shock. Or, if you have the auto-feed feature enabled, you might accidentally press the trigger and cause a problem.

If you’re not careful, the gun can keep feeding the wire and shielding gas, which usually causes a hot wire bird nest. Keep an eye out, because if the autofeed reaches flammable liquids or combustible materials, it can cause a fire, short circuit, or shock you.

No #02 Shielding Gas Safety Concerns

MIG welding uses gases that aren’t active, mostly argon, to keep the welds clean. In some situations, helium can help keep the weld from being oxidized because of oxygen from the outside.

Most shielding gases will rise up and fill your welding area like water from the bottom. Once it reaches your breathing zone, you could suffocate without even knowing. Welders usually start to feel tired before they pass out without any notice.

No #03 MIG Welding Fumes

MIG welding doesn’t produce as many fumes as Stick welding and TIG welding, but there are still some risks involved.

When welding aluminum, dangerous fumes containing aluminum oxide are released. This oxide can cause harmful dust deposits in the respiratory tract and lungs.

While welding aluminum, dangerous fumes containing aluminum oxide are released. This oxide can cause harmful deposits in the respiratory tract and lungs. In addition, when welding aluminum alloys, ozone can be created.

MIG welding produces ten times more ozone than any other welding process. Inhaling ozone can cause acute irritation of the lungs, mucous membranes, and edema.

No #04 Nickel Alloys as Auxiliary Metals

The biggest risk with auxiliary materials is nickel and nickel-based alloys. When MIG welding them, the fumes can contain up to 87% of nickel oxide, which is a carcinogen.

If copper is present in nickel-based alloys, more vapors are created than in alloys with chrome or cobalt. As a result, copper oxide becomes the main component, which can be toxic and cause metal fever and a burning sensation.

Ways to Maintain Your MIG Welder For Peak Performance

Welders should keep their machines in check to save money and time. Maintenance is not as complicated as it seems and can vary depending on the welding process and type of equipment.

Properly maintaining your MIG welder can be slightly more challenging, but it will allow it to perform better, last longer, and have better safety features. So be sure to read this MIG welding maintenance article to learn how to properly maintain your welder.

MIG and Flux-cored welders have more parts and accessories than Stick welders. You’ll need to take care of dust, a complex wire drive system, a MIG welding torch, cables and connections, and shielding gas cylinder concerns.

Paying attention to your equipment is key to ensuring many years of high-quality welds and easy welding. Always unplug your machine before performing any maintenance tasks!

Cleaning Equipment

It’s important to keep your welding equipment clean – it’s the foundation of proper welding. Make sure to include cleaning in your regular maintenance schedule for the best results. To clean your MIG welding machine, first unplug it and remove all the covers. Then use the dry air hose to remove any dirt, dust, and debris from the power.

Dirt and dust can clog your cooling fans and cause overheating. In addition, dirt and debris can cause wear on equipment parts, which you will eventually have to replace or repair. So, all you need to do is occasionally clean the dirt, dust, and debris, and you can avoid these problems.

By maintaining wire feed mechanisms, birdnesting can be prevented

If dirt or dust gets into your wire feed mechanism, it can cause problems like birdnesting. If your steel drive rolls are getting clogged with dirt, just use some dry air to blow it out once a week. This will keep the wire feed mechanism working properly.

Cleaning Drive Rolls

If you’re still having issues with the wire feed after cleaning the wire feed mechanism, you may need to take out the drive rolls and clean the grooves that are responsible for wire feed. This will help prevent birdnesting and ensure smooth thin MIG wire feed.

If your machine has a marked tensioner, be sure to follow the recommendations—too much tension pressure on the drive rolls can cause birdnesting.

Maintenance MIG Welding Gun

The gun nozzle on your MIG welder is important for shielding the weld. But it can get clogged with spatter, which you’ll need to clean. This will keep gas flowing regularly and protect your weld.

The best way to keep your nozzle clean is to use a nozzle dip. This will not only clean it but also prevent any spatter from sticking to the nozzle. You should also screw in a diffuser to the gun tube so that the shielding gas is dispersed properly.

If you notice spatter building up on the diffuser, it’s probably time to unscrew the cone and check if it’s clogged. If it is, use a rag or brush to wipe it clean.

Maintenance Contact Tip

The best way to keep your gun’s contact tip in good shape is to avoid touching the workpiece with it. If the tip comes into contact with the workpiece, it can get damaged from the electricity.

Even if you’re trying your best, the hole diameter of the contact tip will eventually elongate after significant usage. So it’s best to replace them from time to time.

Be sure to let the MIG gun cool before changing the contact tip

Before changing the contact tip on your MIG gun, make sure it’s cooled down first. Rushing to change it can result in burns, since it can get pretty hot.

Use the Right Contact Tip Size

If you use the wrong size contact tip, you can cause a lot of problems, especially with the wire feed. If the contact tip hole is too narrow, it can cause friction with the wire and cause all kinds of problems while welding.

The same problem can happen if the contact tip is worn out, the hole gets bigger, and the wire starts moving around the contact tip, breaking the arc stability and consistency. Having a spare contact tip around is a good idea for welders.

Tighten the Contact Tip Properly

The same problems mentioned above can also happen if the contact tip isn’t screwed in properly. This can damage the wire, hamper the wire feed, and affect the electrical current transfer and overall electrical conductivity.

Check The Gas Nozzle and Gas Diffuser

The gas nozzle on a MIG welder directs the shielding gas into the weld puddle in the most effective way possible. The gas diffuser prevents atmospheric air from entering the liner.

If you use your welder a lot, you’ll eventually need to replace the consumables. But since you’re not doing any heavy-duty work, you don’t need to replace them as often. You can get cheaper consumables as long as you take care of them.

Cleaning the Liner

MIG welding wire comes from the spool, through the drive roll mechanism, and into the MIG torch liner. If there’s dirt or dust build-up and you don’t clean it, the liner can get clogged.

To keep your welder working well, blow out dirt from the tip of the contact tip with compressed gas at least once a week. If you’re not using your welder regularly, do this each time before you weld. In addition to dirt, wire feed issues may occur if the liner size is improper.

If your liner is too short, dirt and dust will build up between the liner and the retaining head. Make sure you don’t flatten the liner by rolling heavy carts over it, or you’ll have to replace it.

Connections and Cables

Before you start welding, always check your cables for damage. Damaged cables can affect the arc stability, which will result in poor welds. In addition, make sure the connections are tight. Loose connections can lead to a heat buildup in cables, which could eventually damage your MIG gun or components.

You should check your ground before you start welding. Bad ground will cause your welds to be erratic, so you’ll have to adjust the voltage constantly to get a decent quality weld. Luckily, you can fix bad ground quickly, and the results will be satisfactory.

Just checking your welding cables before you start welding will save you time later trying to figure out why your arc is inconsistent or why your welds are poor, if the settings worked fine yesterday.

Shielding Gas Cylinder Concerns

You need to be extra careful with the cylinder when using your MIG welder – you’ll need a shielding gun. Always chain it up, either to the machine or in a safe place in the shop, to make sure it doesn’t fall.

If your cylinder falls over and lands on a regulator, the gas will try to escape and could cause a cloud that might hurt nearby welders. So, when you’re not using the gas, remove the regulator and put a protection cap on the top of the bottle. This will prevent rupture.

If you notice your gas tank emptying faster than usual, check your hose for holes or kinks. Make sure to coil it tightly and store it properly to avoid any damage.

Maintenance Tips and Troubleshooting for MIG Welding

The best way to keep your machine clean is to keep a cover on it when you’re not using it. Therefore, the cover is essential if you’re using your welder occasionally. If you can’t maintain a MIG gun correctly, you can always ask a licensed technician to inspect it periodically.

MIG welding may require slightly more maintenance than Stick welding, but MIG wire is copper coated, so you don’t need to worry about rust. Plus, you don’t need to buy a separate rod oven.

One way to tell that something is wrong with your equipment is if you notice weld porosity – small holes in your weld. This can be a sign that you’re out of gas, that your nozzle is clogged, or that there’s a hole in your shielding gas line.

If your arc is inconsistent, check the ground or cables. If your gun isn’t feeding wire well, check the wire drive mechanism.

Spare Parts Warranty And Availability

When it comes to choosing a MIG welder, most people will opt for the machine with the longest warranty. However, it’s important to consider other factors as well, such as the brand and the availability of spare parts.

Some brands are more helpful than others and will send you extra parts if you need them. It’s a good idea to choose a machine whose spare parts are readily available. Good customer support is important, so choose a brand that is known for being polite.

If you give a thorough explanation of the problem, you might be able to get the spare parts you were talking about sooner than expected. For example, one of my colleagues bought a MIG welder from YesWelder, which is the best budget option.

The wire feed speed control PCB wasn’t working, and it made the machine do the opposite of what it was supposed to do. But it wasn’t the PCB itself that was the problem, just the connector was plugged into the wrong place. But no one saw it.

They send him a new PCB and a new wire feeder, just in case the problem wasn’t properly diagnosed. So, it’s important to pick a welder from a company that’s willing to go the extra mile to help out their customers, and avoid any bad reviews.

How much does a MIG welder cost?

When you’re looking at welders, the price is definitely something you’ll want to keep in mind. It really depends on what you’re hoping to use it for. If you want to learn quickly and do a lot of welding, you’ll probably have to pay more. But that isn’t always the case.

The Weldpro 200 Amp Inverter Multi-Process welder is great for beginners and can handle more than most machines. The price is low, especially considering the quality, making it a top all-around welder.

The more you want out of a welder, the more you’ll have to pay for it. Cheaper welders will save you money at first, but in the long run, they’ll end up costing you more.

You can’t beat the price on the Amico TIG 160 Amp Torch ARC Stick DC Welder. But don’t expect it to last forever, it might eventually break and need replacing. It’s worth thinking about what you need a welder for before you make your purchase, so you can decide what’s best for you.

FAQs

We hope this information has answered many of your questions about MIG welders and their features. During our research, we came across a number of queries of a more general nature, so we have gathered those here along with their answers that we hope will be useful.

What is the difference between MIG and TIG welding?

MIG welding uses a metal filler wire, which melts and becomes part of the two pieces being joined. TIG welding uses a non-melting electrode to fuse the two pieces directly into each other. MIG is faster, but TIG is neater.

What is a MIG welder best used for?

MIG welders are versatile tools – perfect for beginners. They can weld a variety of metals, but work best with steel.

Which metals can I meld with a MIG welder?

Some MIG welders can only weld steel, but the better models can weld most metals successfully. However, professionals often prefer the greater precision offered by TIG welding for so-called “exotics” like magnesium and titanium.

How do I set up a MIG welder?

There are several elements to consider when welding, including voltage, wire-feed speed, and gas supply (if required). Actual settings will vary depending on the metal being welded and the capabilities of the machine.

What is the best welder for a beginner?

The Hobart 500559 Handler is a great choice for beginner welders. It’s a powerful welder that’s easy to move around, making it perfect for those new to welding.

What is the correct amperage for MIG welding?

There are a few things to think about when you’re choosing the right amp welder. First, you need to pick a MIG welder that has enough amps for the job you’re doing.

This will depend on the thickness of the materials you are welding and the limitations of your electrical outlets.

Our Final Verdict to Finding the Best MIG Welder

When you’re looking to buy a welder, it’s important to know what your needs are. Doing your research beforehand will help you make a wise investment that will last for years. Keep in mind what you’ll be using the welder for most often, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for you.

If you’re looking for a MIG welder that can handle anything you throw at it, you’ll want to get one with a high voltage rating for 220v household outlets. These puppies have plenty of power to get the job done right.

If you don’t have a 220v power outlet, you can start with a 110-voltage MIG, but you should upgrade to a 220v as soon as you can. You can also buy a dual voltage machine, but be warned that they are more expensive.

Our top pick is the Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder. It’s a great machine that can weld most materials, and it’s offered at a great price. It usually lasts longer than their warranty period, even though it’s a longer warranty than most welders.

If you’re tight on budget but still want a quality welder, go for the Forney Easy Weld 271, 140 MP Welder. It’s not as powerful as the Hobart 210 MVP, but it’ll get the job done and won’t break the bank.

We hope our reviews helped you get a better understanding of each welder so you don’t have to spend hours researching them online. Thanks for reading!