Welcome to TFC‘s Ultimate 6 Best Multi Process Welder Reviews! The following post has two parts.
First, you’ll find detailed reviews of the best multipurpose welding machines for sale. Then, take advantage of the specialized Buyer’s Guide.
Both are designed to help you find the best rig to fit your budget and welding requirements.
Best Multi Process Welder Reviews: Table of Contents
- Reviews of the 6 Best Multi Purpose Welders
- Bonus Recommendation: Esab Welder for Sale
- Buyer’s Guide: Answers to All in One Welder FAQs
- Best Welder Brands
- How to Make Your Final Decision
The Top 6 Best Multi Purpose Welder Reviews
Forney 324 190 Amp Multi-Process Welder, 120/230-Volt
The following Forney welder review showcases a multifunctional welder with innovative, user-friendly features.
Forney All in One Welder Specs:
- Processes: Mig, Flux Cored, Stick, and TIG
- Welding Amperage Range: Max of 190 Amp
- Input Voltage: 120/230V
- Weld Thickness: ⅜” steel
- Weight: 43 lbs
- Height: 16 inches
- Length: 20.25 inches
- Width: 10.25 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discounts
- Warranty: 5/3/1 warranty against manufacturer defects
Welder Parts Included
- Flowmeter
- Gas hose
- Stick and MIG set-up
- Euro-Connect MIG gun
- 15 ft. power cord
- Grounds clamp
Parts Sold Separately
Only 3 parts will cost a little more: the spool gun, TIG torch, and foot pedal.
Advantages
- Very easy to dial in settings
- The 4 stage trigger is awesome
- Excellent customer service
- Easy and fun to use
- Very well designed and engineered
- Replaceable parts
Special Considerations
Here’s a pro tip: when using the highest settings, be aware that the power can trip. (Although this doesn’t happen to everyone, it’s a complaint from a small sub-group of reviewers.)
Overall Assessment
In a nutshell, the Forney 324 190 Amp MIG Stick TIG multipurpose welder comes with modern and awesome features. It is one of the highest performing multifunction welders under $1000.
Tweco Fabricator 141i
This particular Tweco 3 in Welder review showcases the Fabricator 141i’s lightweight system. Most importantly, the Fabricator 141i performs MIG, Stick and TIG welding processes in a league of its own.
Tweco All in One Welder Specs:
- Processes: MIG, Stick, and TIG
- Welding Amperage Range: 10 to 140 Amps
- Duty Cycle:
- 140A/19V at 15%
- 90A/18.5V at 20%
- Input Voltage: 115 Volts
- Wire Feed Speed Range: 100 to 600 IMP
- Weight: 32.2 lbs
- Height: 16.14 inches
- Length: 17.72 inches
- Width: 8.27 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discount
- Warranty: 3 years
Welder Parts Included:
- Electrode holder with 13 ft. lead
- Power supply, flow gauge regulator and 12.5 ft. hose
- Bonus contact tips installed
- V-groove installed
- Tweco Fusion 140A MIG Gun with 10 ft cable
- 4 multipurpose Stick electrodes
- Power adapter 115V, 20A to 15A
- Ground clamp with 10 ft. lead
- Shoulder strap
- User’s manual and CD
- 10 ft. power cord and 115V AC plug
Parts Sold Separately
As you can see, most parts are included in a single price. The only additional parts you might need to add are new set magnets for Arc, MIG, TIG welding.
Advantages
To summarize, there are four undeniable selling points. Because the Tweco Fabricator 141i:
- Offers excellent quality and support
- Comes with a fantastic MIG stinger gun
- Due to the all-inclusive package, you’re truly getting your money’s worth.
- Is lightweight
Special Considerations
Really, our only complaint is somewhat unclear instructions on the wiring.
Overall Assessment
All in all, this three in one fabricator offers the best value for the money. Put simply, it consistently delivers superior welds. We highly recommend this product because it is suitable for a wide range of user applications.
Everlast PowerPro 256S 250a Plasma Cutter Multi Process Welder
Unsurprisingly, you can never go wrong with trusting the Everlast brand. In fact, this is one of the best multipurpose welders in this entire post.
Everlast Welder Specs
- Processes: 250A TIG/ 200A STICK / 60A PLASMA CUTTER COMBO
- Welding Amperage Range: Up to 250 Amp
- Duty Cycle:
- TIG:
- 250A/20V @ 60%
- 200A/18V @ 100%
- Stick:
- 200A/28V @ 35%
- 160A/26.4V @ 60
- 130A/25.2V @ 100%
- Plasma:
- 60A/104V @ 35%
- 50A/100V @ 60%
- 40A/96V @ 100%
- TIG:
- Input Voltage: Up to 240V
- Weld Thickness: ⅝ inch
- Weight: 60 lbs
- Height: 9 inches
- Length: 22 inches
- Width: 17 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discounts
- Warranty: 5 years (parts and labor) and 30 days money back
Welder Parts Included:
- Everlast foot pedal
- Argon regulator for TIG
- Stick electrode holder with 10 ft. cable and DINSE 35 style connectors
- Consumable starter kits for TIG and Plasma
Parts Sold Separately
Basically, all you’ll want to add is a TIG finger heat shield.
Advantages to this All in One Plasma Cutter
- Plasma cutting is excellent
- The TIG arc is very stable and stylish
- Well laid out controls
- Excellent customer service and support
- It delivers on promise
Everlast Welder Review: Overall Assessment
Overall, this multi process welder is great for use at the farm or ranch, for factory maintenance, HVAC, and light fabrication projects. Since it can weld several metals such as steel, aluminum, titanium, stainless and chrome-moly, it gives versatility a whole new meaning.
To summarize, the Everlast brand is remarkable and delivers an attractive multifunction plasma cutter that is worth every penny.
Lincoln Multipurpose Welder Review
Next, the Lincoln Electric Powermig 210 Mp #K3963-1 wins this level as the best welder for home use. At just over 40 pounds, it’s ultra-portable. And its features exceed most of the other 3 in 1 welders on the market.
Lincoln Welder Specs
- Processes: MIG, Flux-Cored, DC Stick and DC TIG
- Welding Amperage Range: 20 – 210 Amps (230V), 20 – 140 Amps (120V)
- Duty Cycle: 40% @ 100A, 25%@ 200A
- Input Voltage: 120V or 230V
- Wire Feed Speed Range: 50 – 500 imp
- Weld Thickness: 24 ga. – ⅜ inch
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Height: 14 inches
- Length: 19 inches
- Width: 10.8 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discount
Welder Parts Included:
- Gun cable liner
- Dual voltage input cables
- Adjustable gas regulator and hose
- Spindle adapter
- Gun cable liner
- Electrode holder and lead assembly
Parts Sold Separately:
- Spoon gun
- Lincoln small canvas cover
- .023 – .025 contact
- Lincoln power MiG 210 Tig accessory kit
Advantages
- Portable and flexible
- Features dual input voltage
- Very easy to use
- Works as expected
- Very versatile and powerful
Special Considerations
Most notably, there is no AC for TIG aluminum.
Overall Assessment
In sum, the Lincoln 210 MP is a powerful welding machine with off-the-charts durability. Although it is not a perfect welder for TIG, it is very easy and portable, and it is a great way to start with the basics of TIG.
Lotos Technology 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
Next, the Lotos LTPDC2000d review highlights the cheapest multi process welder available on the market. Looking for the best plasma cutter under 500? This is probably the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow!
Specs:
- Processes: Plasma Cutter, TIG and Stick
- Welding Amperage Range: 50A (Cut), 200A (weld)
- Duty Cycle: 60%
- Input Voltage: 110V/220V
- Wire Feed Speed Range:
- Weld Thickness: ½ inch
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Height: 14 inches
- Length: 17 inches
- Width: 8 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discounts
- Warranty: 1 year limited warranty and 30-day money back guarantee
Lotos Welder Parts Included:
- Power supply
- Cutting torch
- Tig torch
- Stick/MMA welder torch
- Consumables
- Ground clamp
- Air filter and regulator
- Connections
- Argon regulator
Parts Sold Separately
As you can see, most vital components come included in the price. However, some shoppers add the pigtail type 1 and a foot pedal to enhance their experience.
Advantages to this All in One Welder:
- Stable and consistent arc
- Very effective plasma cutter
- Offers great value for money
- Very quiet when working
- Compact and portable
- Quite easy to use
Special Considerations
Although they aren’t deal breakers, here are two possible disadvantages:
- First, the ground cable is a bit short.
- Second, you not be able to cut up to a depth of 1/2″.
Overall Assessment
Altogether, this is the cheapest 3 in 1 welder that still delivers decent quality. So, if you’re looking for a good budget welder, consider making this the next step in your welding endeavors.
SÜA ionMig 200 Multiprocess MIG/TIG/STICK Welder
Best Portable Welding Machine for Experienced Welders
If you want the best of the best, the SÜA ionMig 200 is the highest quality Mig welder for sale. Actually, it’s more than just a MIG welder: it’s also great for TIG and Stick. This is the portable welder for welders who want to invest in premium equipment.
Best Portable Welding Machine Specs
- Types of Welding Processes: MIG, Stick, Lift TIG
- Welding Amperage Range: 200 A
- Duty Cycle: (40oC, 10 mins) MIG at 110V 30% at 140A, MMA at 110V 30% at 110A, TIG at 110V 40% at 150A, MIG at 220V 30% at 200A, MMA at 220V 25% at 200A, TIG at 220V 35% at 200A
- Input Voltage: 90 – 270 V
- Weight: 51.3 pounds
- Height: 10 inches
- Length: 17 inches
- Width: 5 inches
- Best Price: Check Current Discounts
Portable Welding Machine Parts Included
- Power cord with a NEMA 6-50 plug
- Argon regulator
- MIG torch
- Ground clamp with a 9-ft welding cable
- Electrode holder with a 9-ft welding cable
The only accessories sold separately are the SUA spool gun and TIG torch.
SUA ionMIG 200 Portable Mig Welder: Highlights
- 3-in-1 multi-process welder
- Provides digital display for both current and voltage
- User-friendly
- Generator-friendly
Click here for more pictures of the SUA inoMIG 200. - Very reliable with built-in protection circuit
- Saves a lot of energy
- Comes with high quality accessories
- High quality connections
Special Considerations
Before investing in the SUA portable welder, consider how often you plan to arc weld. According to some, it can be difficult to strike an arc when you’re using it with a generator.
That being said, since this is a multi process welder, it’s naturally more complex. That’s why it’s harder for beginners to master.
For this reason, we recommend it for more experienced welders.
Overall Assessment
Clearly, the SUA ionMig 200 portable welding machine is a quality piece of welding equipment. At about 50lbs, it definitely isn’t the lightest of the bunch.
Additional Recommendation: Esab Welder for Sale
Buyer’s Guide: Answers to All in One Welder FAQs
Above all, this buyer’s guide is here to ensure you have the best information to find the best overall welder for your purposes and budget.
The Honest Truth: Advantages & Disadvantages of a Multi-Use Welder
Like all welding supplies, different types have their upsides and downsides. Most importantly, a multi process welder is suitable and economical for those who perform multiple types of welding regularly.
Advantages
Here are some of the key benefits of these types of welding machines:
- First of all, they save space. With a multi process welder, you don’t have to litter your workshop with varied equipment any more. In other words, the best multipurpose welders are so all-encompassing that you don’t need as much extra equipment.
- Without a doubt, it’s more economical to buy an all-in-one welder that can perform related multiple tasks rather than purchasing different machine for each similar task.
- Another benefit it offers is a superior level of versatility. Unlike more specialized welders, such as the Hobart Handler 140, multi process welders allow you to perform far more tasks with varying degrees of intensity. The potential ranges from simple repairs around the house to industrial-standard jobs, all with the same welder.
Special Considerations
Even the best multi purpose welders aren’t for everyone. In general, there are two potential disadvantages to consider.
- One major limitation of multi purpose welders is excess weight. Some of these machines weigh more than 85 pounds. As a result, it takes more effort to re-position the equipment in order to reach certain angles to carry out some work.
- Another disadvantage is that some of these types of welding machines aren’t able to perform a particular welding process as much as a a more specialized welding rig. For instance, a specific multi-welder might be great with plasma cutting but sub-par when it comes to mig welding.
How Do Multi Process Welders Work?
Multi process welders come with “all in one” features that are usable for varied types of welding processes such as MIG, TIG, Stick and Plasma Cutting.
The amazing quality of a multifunction welder is that it can switch welding modes.
- For instance, if you want to carry out MIG and Stick processes, the welder works with a consumable electrode.
- For Plasma Cutting and TIG welding, you’ll switch to using a non-consumable tungsten electrode.
- When it’s time to MIG weld, the multipurpose welder continuously feeds a spool of wire to the MIG welding gun to weld two pieces of metal together.
- For TIG welding, your “3 in 1” welder combines an electric torch with tungsten electrode to offer current to the welding arc. Next, you’ll feed a filler rod by hand into the weld puddle. But it isn’t so simple; you’ll be busy holding a torch with your other hand.This welding process is usually required for positions that are more difficult to weld.
In summary, a multi process welder works in the same manner as a dedicated welder, when switched for such a process.
How do I use my new best multi process welder?
Although multi-welders work the same way their more specialized counterparts will work, the following steps are generally worth following:
- First strike the arc by attaching the electrode to the base metal.
- Next, form a bead with your wire or consumable rod while keeping the arc in place. Move the arc along the space to be filled.
- If the arc shakes off the track, wipe off the slag and continue.
- To create a larger bead, try to move the bead in a zig-zag form.
- Apply a rust-proof primer when done.
How to Make Sure They’re Truly the Best Welders for the Money
Overall, there are 5 key qualities to look for.
Combination of Welding Processes
Many multifunction welders have MIG in their mix. But the most common combination is MIG, TIG and Stick welding. A good multi-welder should be able to handle alloy, steel, aluminum and stainless steel. Other popular combinations are TIG/PLASMA/STICK and MIG/TIG/CUTTER.
Amperage Range
The capacity of this unit always depend on the type of your project. Now, amperage range is the most important specification to take into account. It’s essential to consider the thickness of metals you will be using. Ideally, an amperage range between 150 Amp to 230 Amp can weld a quarter inch aluminum to 24 gauge steel, while a machine with 200-300 Amp is enough for regular repairs at home or any project.
AC and DC Capability
A multi process welder that has capacity to use both AC and DC output provides maximum versatility. When you’re working with a sturdy metal, like steel, you’ll need a DC capability. But when it comes to self-oxidizing metal such as magnesium or aluminum, you’ll need AC capability.
Lightweight
Some welding processes will demand you moving and adjusting the machine in order to have a better position to work. A lightweight multi purpose welder will offer you greater portability and flexibility to move or transport easily.
Simple and User Friendly
Most welders, especially beginners, want to avoid hours studying manuals on how to operate or setup some ridiculously complicated machine. That’s why you should choose models you can easily operate, setup and adjust to fit a particular task. Simply put, look for that welder that possesses user-friendly interface and control panel.
On the flip side, the following three qualities might send you running for the hills:
- Heavyweight – Unfortunately, a heavyweight welding machine will slow your work down and will not be practicable to perform some tasks without using the welding cart.
- Lack of Warranty – Without a warranty, a repair or replacement part will cost you a fortune. Coupled with the cost, your work may be delayed while waiting for the machine to be repaired.
- Uncommon/Unknown Brands – Some multi process machine brands are new in the market, imported or manufacturer unknown. Even though they’re cheap, they’re risky. Because if something goes wrong, it’s difficult to find affordable replacement parts.
Best Welder Brands
While keeping in mind the tips discussed above, simplify shopping by selecting a product from the most reputable welding equipment brands.
Here are 11 best welder brands to start with:
- Tweco
- Forney
- Everlast
- Lincoln
- Lotos
- SUA
- Esab
- Miller
- Hobart
- Thermal Arc
- PanelTech
Best Multi Purpose Welder Reviews: Making that Final Decision
As can be seen, we’ve covered a lot of ground! After a diverse selection of reviews and a buyer’s guide, you’re exactly where you need to be. Now it’s time to take the next step. When comparing your needs with the strengths of each welder, it’ll soon become clear which one is best for you.