Best Cheap Mig Welder Reviews & Buyer’s Guide: Table of Contents

• Reviews of the 9 Best Mig Welders Under $500
• Buyer’s Guide: How to Find the Best Budget Mig Welder for You

9 Best Cheap Mig Welders for Sale Under $500

In the reviews below, you’ll find detailed information for each Mig welding machine. This includes specs, advantages, possible disadvantages, price range, and links to all the best discount welders.

With a good 110V or 220V MIG welder, you’ll be able to handle almost any home welding job, including MIG aluminum welding positions.

The Best Cheap Mig Welder Under 500: Reviews of the Top 2

Hobart Handler 140
#1 Best Seller in MIG Welding Equipment on Amazon

With their strong reputation for quality and reliability, Hobart is one of the best MIG welder brands. The Handler 140 is among one of Hobart’s smaller welders. If you’re looking for the best cheap welder out there for light welding work, the Handler 140 might be for you.

Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: Both Mig & Flux Core
• Duty Cycle: 20% at 90A
• Input Voltage: 115v
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 40 to 700 IPM
• Welding Amperage Range: 25 to 140 IPM
• Weld Thickness: 24 ga – ¼”
• Weight: 57 pounds
• Height: 12 and 3/8”
• Length: 19 and ½”
• Width: 10 and 5/8”
• Hobart Handler 140 Wire Size: 0.030 -0.035”
• Hobart Handler 140 Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: Hobart 5/3/1 Industrial Warranty

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Handler 140 with built-in gas valve
• 10 ft. MIG gun with liner
• Dual gauge regulator & gas hose
• 10-ft work cable & clamp, 10-ft power cord
• Additional 0.030 contact tips
• Sample spool of.030 flux-cored wire
• 8 inch spool adapter
• Owners manual, set-up guide

Since the price includes almost all the necessary parts, this truly is a best MIG welder under 500 dollars.

Hobart 140 Review: Advantages

• Easy to use with simple controls
• Versatile enough for most light welding projects, maintenance, farm and automotive workshops
• Durable and made of quality reliable parts
• Portable and lightweight, considering that it’s a transformer-based welder

Hobart 140 Review: Special Considerations

• Incompatible with generators
• Short Leads
• Not compatible with SpoolRunner 100 for aluminum welding
• For increased portability, consider a cheap Hobart welder cart.

Overall Assessment

Overall, the Hobart Handler 140 is a long-lasting, quality welder. Users across the board agree that the Handler 140 is a welder for beginners on a budget. Arguably, it’s the best mig welder for the money.

Whether you are a farmer, home repairman, or auto enthusiast, this is one of the best options out there for all your light welding needs.

Hitbox MIG Welder Inverter 200Amp 220V DC Wire Welder
Best MIG Welder for Home Use

If you need more portability to MIG weld, the Hitbox MIG200 might be the right choice. It’s an inverter-based welder, so it’s great for welding mild steel, stainless steel, and many other metal materials. Furthermore, it’s capable of TIG welding with the right torch and gas.

Mig Welding Machine Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding, Arc Welding, TIG welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 30-200A
• Duty Cycle: 40%@200A
• Input Voltage: 220V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: adjustable
• Weld Thickness: up to 0.045”
• Weight: 12.35lbs
• Height: 12.8in
• Length: 17.6in
• Width: 7.2in
• Best Price: Check Current Discount

Parts Included

• MIG200, MIG torch AB-15 binzel with 3M cable
• 8.2ft Cable & Earth clamp
• 8.2ft Cable & Electrode holder
• 2lb,0.8mm flux-cored wire
• 2 pcs gas tub

Parts Sold Separately

• TIG torch (if you want the option of TIG welding)
• Argon gas

Hitbox Mig Welder: Advantages

• At a little over 12 lbs, this best home mig welder is lightweight.
• Variety of safety features, such as overheating protection
• Low power consumption
• It’s important to note that Hitbox delivers excellent customer service.

Special Considerations

• Not the best for more industrial work
• Incompatible with 120V outlets

Overall Assessment

Overall, the HitBox MIG200 is a contender for the best mig welder for home use.

• As an inverter welder, it is much lighter than other transformer-based welders, making it easy to transport. It’s also great for beginners because it’s ready to use right out of the box.
• Since this is a best 220v mig welder, the power enables you to do more than 110v welding machines
• Additionally, if you also want to TIG weld, it’s compatible with TIG welding torches and argon gas canisters. Except for industrial work, the HitBox MIG200 is a fantastic, affordable MIG welder.

It’s hard to go wrong with a dual purpose welding machine. (For more info, see Best Multi Process Welder: All in One Welder Reviews.)

Review of the Best Budget Welder for Mig Under 400

Sun Gold Power MIG Welder for Sale
Best 220V Mig Welder for the Money

At an even lower cost, this 220V MIG welder is a must-see. In a nut shell, the Sun Gold Power works for both MIG and ARC welding and features dual voltage and maximum performance.

Welding Machine Specs

• Processes: MIG/MAG/Arc/MMA Welder
• Welding Amperage Range: 50-180A
• Duty Cycle: 60%@180A
• Input Voltage: 110V/120V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 1.5~16m/min
• Weld Thickness: 0.03~0.039 in
• Weight: 44lbs
• Height: 14.9in
• Length: 19.6in
• Width: 9.4in
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts

Parts Included

• 118″ Mig Torch
• Mask and brush
• 47’’ cable with earth clamp
• 71’’ cable with electrode holder
• 1lb Welding Wire Spool drive roll
• Dual nozzles; both gas and gas-less

Parts Sold Separately: Spool gun

Sungoldpower Mig Welder Review: Advantages

• Fantastic duty cycle
• Considering the price, this welder is quite powerful
• Suited for 120V and 220V outlets
• Also great for Stick welding

Special Considerations

• Not suited for aluminum welding

Sun Gold Power’s Best Cheap Welder: Overall Assessment

In sum, the Sun Gold Power MIG 200 packs a lot of power into such a low price. With a great duty cycle, this cheap MIG welder should be enough for most home welding needs and even a few light industrial applications. To be frank, it performs almost as well as more expensive welders.

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Reviews of the 3 Best Cheap Mig Welding Machines Under 300

Pro-Series MMIG125 Mig Welder Kit
Best Small Mig Welder Review

For even more affordable MIG welders, there are some great options under $300. In fact, we think they’re the best small MIG welders for sale. First, we’ve reviewed the Pro-Series MMig125, which is great for lighter duty work around the farm or house.

Pro-Series Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding, Flux-core Welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 80-125A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@80A
• Input Voltage: 120V 60Hz
• Wire Feed Speed Range: infinite
• Weld Thickness: 18ga to 3/16”
• Weight: 10.39lbs
• Height: 16.8in
• Length: 20in
• Width: 11.2in
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 90 days

Parts Included

• Ground cable with clamp
• Welding gun
• Face shield
• Brush hammer

Pros

• Lightweight & portable
• Ultra user-friendly
• Can accommodate a range of wire sizes
• Good for beginners
• Since all the welding machine parts come together, there aren’t hidden costs.

Special Considerations

• Unless you buy additional attachments, this isn’t ideal for welding aluminum.
• Simply put, this welding rig doesn’t pack enough power for larger projects.

Overall Assessment

At this price point, it can be tricky to find a decent MIG welder. On the other hand, the Pro-Series MMIG-125 offers amazing portability and performance for the cost. With it’s small size, it can fit in places large MIG welders can’t.

Basically, this Pro Series MIG welding machine performs beautifully on most light to medium welding work. For example, light fabrication, repairs, and even automotive body work.

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Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core
Lincoln Electric Handy Mig Review

Commonly, consumers recognize Lincoln Electric as a very respectable brand. And, for those looking for the best cheap MIG welder reviews, the Handy Core could be your new best friend.

Lincoln Electric Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding,
• Welding Amperage Range: 35-88A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@70A
• Input Voltage: 115V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: infinite
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/8”
• Weight: 45lbs
• Height: 11in
• Length: 15in
• Width: 10in
• Best Price: Check Current Price
• Warranty: 12 months

MIG Welder Parts Included

• Welding gun/cable assembly
• 10 ft Work cable/clamp
• 1-lb. spool of .035in. flux-cored wire
• 2 Contact tips
• Welding hand shield with #10 filter plate and clear glass cover plate
• Chipping hammer/brush

Parts Sold Separately: Utility Cart

Video: Unboxing My New Lincoln Electric Handy Mig Welder

Handy Core Small Welder Review: Advantages

• Very easy to set up
• Compact and relatively lightweight
• Good quality and durability
• 120V outlet-friendly
• Perfect for small projects

Special Considerations

• Not ideal for heavier projects
• No gas option

Overall Assessment

Lincoln Electric is one of the most trusted brands out there, and the K2278-1 Handy Core MIG welder doesn’t disappoint.

It takes mere moments to set up, making it an excellent option for beginners. Once it’s up and running, its ready to handle most light, do-it-yourself jobs around the home, shop, or farm. It’s not the most powerful MIG welder out there, but it’s a great hobby welder.

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Campbell Hausfeld WG216001AV MIG Welder for Sale
Best Dual Voltage Cheap Welding Machine

Finally, at just over $200 we’ve reviewed the Campbell Hausfeld WG216001AV. Now, this best budget MIG welder offers excellent quality and performance at an amazingly low price. Also, you can use it with gas.

Best Cheap MIG Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG welding, flux core welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 30-100A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@30A
• Input Voltage: 115V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: infinite
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight: 48lbs
• Height: 11.5in
• Length: 17.5in

  

• Width: 11in
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 5 year limited warranty

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Starter spool of flux core wire
• MIG regulator with hose
• Additional tips

Campbell Best Flux Core Welder Review: Advantages

• High “ease of use” rating
• Great duty cycle
• Excels at light duty work
• Lengthy warranty

Special Considerations

• Some reviewers state that the clamp is sub-par. (However, that’s part of paying such a low cost.)

Overall Assessment

If you’re looking for the best budget welder, the Campbell Hausfeld WG216001AV is a great machine. Powerful enough to weld steel up to 1/4 inch, it’s ideal for light welding work around the home or shop. Users are frequently satisfied with it’s performance and usability, and it performs well whether the job is light repairs or even making sculptures! Plug it in to any standard 120V outlet and start welding with ease.

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The Best Mig Welder Under 200

 Forney Easy Weld 299 125FC Flux Core Welder, 120-Volt, 125-Amp
The Best Mig Welder for Beginners

Now, the Forney Easy Weld is an all around best cheap welder for MIG, especially if you’re a beginner with home projects. Although technically a flux-core welding machine, it’s also great for MIG welding. Notably, gas may not be used with this welding rig.

Budget Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: Gasless Flux Core Welding, MIG Welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 65-80A
• Duty Cycle: 20%@80A
• Input Voltage: 120V 60Hz
• Wire Feed Speed Range: N/A
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight: 32.6lbs
• Height: 18.5in
• Length: 24.6in
• Width: 12.6in
• Warranty: 6 month
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts

The Best Cheap Mig Welder for the Money Reviews: Video Tour

Forney Easy Welder Review: Advantages

• Amazingly portable, since it doesn’t use gas and fits compactly into tight spaces
• Works with common household 120V outlets
• Stellar spool storage
• Packs enough power to weld stainless steel

Special Considerations

• Due to limited amperage settings, the Forney Easy Weld isn’t ideal for experienced welders
• Short ground wires and wire feeder

Overall Assessment

Overall, the Forney Easy Weld 299 is easily a best 110v Mig welder. On the one hand, it doesn’t have as much “oomph” as a more expensive welder. However, it performs light welding beautifully.

So, if you’re a novice looking for an easy Mig welder for projects around the house, consider the Forney Easy Weld 299.

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The Best Cheap Mig Welders Under 100

Most importantly, we want to be honest in these Mig welder reviews. So, to put it bluntly, you aren’t going to find the best Mig welder for sale for less than $100. That being said, you can still find a good welding machine that won’t break the bank.

 Go Plus MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine
Best 110v Mig Welder for Penny Pinchers

First, we’ve reviewed the Goplus 130 Mig welding machine for sale. In a nutshell, this is a good portable welder for hobbyists.

Go Plus Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 50-120A
• Duty Cycle: 15%@105A
• Input Voltage: 110V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: Infinite
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight:  35lbs
• Height: 11.4in
• Length: 13.4in
• Width: 7.3in
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 90 day

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Welding gun
• Wire
• Weld mask
• Brush

Go Plus Mig Welder Review: Advantages

• Lightweight, easy to travel with
• Four idiot-proof amperage settings
• Comes with extras which are great for getting started

Special Considerations

• First, wire is always live in use, so you must be hyper vigilant for safety
• And to be frank, the duty cycle isn’t anything to write home about. But for less than $100, this is a steal of a deal.

Best Cheap Mig Welder Under 100:
Overall Assessment

Basically, if you’re a beginner with $100 or less, this is a great option! Since the Go Plus 130 comes with accessories like a welding mask, it’s the perfect Mig welding starter kit.

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Super Deal Commercial MIG 130 Automatic Feed Welder w/ Free Mask 
Best 110v Mig Welder Review: “Amazon’s Choice”

Yet another best cheap Mig welder with a welding mask included. Like the previous welding machines, this manages to be both cheap and great for beginners.

Superdeal Budget Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG Welding, Flux core welding
• Welding Amperage Range: 50-120A
• Duty Cycle: 10%@105A
• Input Voltage: 110V 60Hz
• Wire Feed Speed Range: variable
• Weld Thickness: up to 1/4”
• Weight: 38.1lbs
• Height: 14.9in
• Length: 20.2in
• Width: 14.9in
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 90 day

Welder Parts Included

• Welding Spool Wire
• Face Mask
• Chipping Hammer and Wire Brush
• 2.5M Torch
• Spare tips
• Ground Cord

Video: Super Deal Commercial Black MIG 130 AC Flux Core Automatic Feed Welder

Super Deal Budget Mig Welder Review: Advantages

• Easy to carry and travel with
• 4 no-fuss settings
• Thermal overload protection
• Plenty of parts included in the price

Special Considerations

It’s important to realize that there are 3 slight shortcomings to the Super Deal Mig 130. Here they are:

• Can’t function with gas
• Not for aluminum
• Interestingly, some reviewers report an unhelpful owner’s manual.

Overall Assessment

For such a cheap welding machine, the Super Deal 130 is a steal of a deal. Unsurprisingly, it can’t compete with more expensive models. For example, a 10% duty cycle prevents heavy duty work.

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Finding the Best Cheap Mig Welder for Any Budget: Shopping Tips

As can be seen, striking the right balance between cost and performance is challenging. Especially when you’re looking for the absolute best cheap Mig welder for sale.

Below, you’ll find 3 tips for selecting the best MIG welder under 500 dollars:

• For light home repairs, choose one of the best 100v MIG welders for the money.
• If you want versatility, opt for a 220v MIG welder.
• Likewise, be selective when buying a cheap aluminum welder. In other words, make sure it’s compatible with spool guns and can use the right gas.

Check out our handy “What to Look for in a Mig Welder” checklist for a more detailed guide.

For more inspiration, check out these blog posts:
2018’s Best Mig Welder Under 1000
The 12 Best Rated Welding Helmets for Mig

The post How to Find the Best Cheap MIG Welder Under 500 appeared first on Trades For Careers.

Additionally, a quick “How to Pick a Welder for Mig” checklist and helpful buyer’s hints along the way are here to guide you to the best fit for you.

Table of Contents:
On the Quest for the Best Mig Welder Under 1000

• The 9 Best Mig Welder Reviews
• What to Look for When Buying a Mig Welder: Buyer’s Guide
• More on MIG Welding Basics: Is this really the best process for you?

The Top 9 Mig Welder Reviews

Without a doubt, there are a lot of MIG welders to choose from, each with its unique feature. Whether you’re still in welding school, a beginner, a home welder, or looking to do automotive welding, there’s something here for you.

#1. Hobart Handler 190 with Spool Runner
Best Budget Mig Welder for Beginners

Overall, this is great for industrial performance, and it’s the best budget aluminum welder for sale. The Hobart Handler 190 with Spool Runner manages to be both powerful and portable. In fact, while many features cater to beginners, many professionals also prefer it.

For a review complete with information about the Hobart Handler compared to other rigs, with owners manual, and more, check out Hobart Handler 190 Review: Best Welder for Beginners?

Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG (GMAW) welding and Flux Cored (FCAW) welding
• Welding Amperage Range:  25 to 190 A
• Duty Cycle: 130A at 21.5 VDC @ 30%
• Input Voltage: 230V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 40 – 700 IPM and 50 – 740 IPM at no load
• Weld Thickness: 24 gauge up to 5/16-inch steel
• Weight: 68 lbs (31 kg)
• Height: 13.7 inches (315 mm)
• Length: 29.5 inches (495 mm)
• Width: 18.5 inches (270 mm)
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts on Amazon
• Warranty: Standard 5/3/1

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Gas valve that is built-in
• SpoolRunner 100
• 10-ft MIG gun
• Sample spool of .030 flux-cored wire
• Dual gauge regulator
• Gas hose
• 10 ft work cable and clamp
• 8-inch spool adapter
• 10-ft power cord
• .30 contact tips
• Set-up guide and owners’ manual

Hobart Parts Sold Separately

Although the Nozzle Gel and Multi-function welding pliers are sold separately, you can buy Hobart 190 Welder Kits to save money and get the accessories you need in one price.

Hobart 190 Review: Advantages

• Very easy to set up and use
• Has a set-up guide included
• Does not require any additional adapter or control box
• Powerful and versatile
• Has 7 voltage selections and superior magnetics
• Capable of both MIG and Flux Core

Video: Hobart Handler 190 MIG Welder with SpoolRunner 100 Spool Gun

Special Considerations for the Handler 190

• Not quite suitable for professional welding
• Has a short power cord

Overall Assessment of the Hobart Handler 190

The Hobart Handler, despite its few cons, is the best budget MIG welder under 1000. It offers exceptional value and a lot of convenient features and settings that will make welding safer and better.

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#2. LOTOS MIG175 175AMP Mig Welder Kit
Best 220v Mig Welder on Sale

According to our research, this is the best 220V Mig Welder on sale. Considering its ultra-low price, it has a lot to offer. Overall,the versatility and reliability makes the Lotos Mig 175 great for multiple welding processes.

Lotos Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG (GMAW) & Flux Core
• Welding Amperage Range: Maximum 175 A
• Input Voltage: 220 V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 18 Gauge – 1/4″; capable of welding 3/8″ or thinner aluminum
• Weight: 85 lbs
• Height: 10.5 inches
• Length: 18 inches
• Width: 12.5 inches
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 1 year

Lotos Welding Machine Parts Included

When you purchase this Lotos Mig welding machine, you’ll receive:

• Spool gun
• Mask
• Solid wires
• Aluminum welding wires
• Argon regulator
• Standard Mig gun

Lotos Mig Welder Review: Advantages

• Very powerful
• Very easy to use
• Works great
• Affordable and reliable
• Lightweight
• Great customer service

Special Considerations for the Lotos Mig 175 

• The drive motor is quite loud
• May be difficult to find replacement parts

Overall Assessment

Although it’s a bit loud, this welder has a lot to offer in terms of high performance and user-friendliness. With an included spool gun to weld your aluminum and killer durability, this is definitely a good welder for home use.

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#3. Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder
Best Mig Welder for Home Use

Great for welding mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum, this portable welder is the best welder for home use. It also offers a lot of free parts and they all function perfectly.

For a full blog post review, see Hobart Handler 210 MVP Mig Welder Review.

Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG
• Welding Amperage Range: 210 A
• Duty Cycle: 115V 20% at 90 A; 230V 30% at 150A
• Input Voltage: Dual – 115V and 230V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 24 gauge up to 3/8-inch mild steel
• Weight: 87 lbs
• Height: 18.6 inches
• Length: 13.2 inches
• Width: 24 inches
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 3 years limited warranty

Mig Welding Machine Parts Included

• Gas valve
• 10-ft. H100S4-10 MIG Welding Gun
• Dual gauge regulator
• Gas hose
• 10-ft. Work Cable and Clamp
• Power Cord and Plug
• Sample Spool of .030 flux-cored welding wire
• .030 contact tips
• 8-inch wire spool adapter
• Owner’s manual
• (1) 115V and (1) 230V multi-voltage plug

Parts Sold Separately

Once you’ve decided the Hobart 210 is the machine for you, all you need is two small accessories. Add Hobart brand nozzle gel and multi-function welding pliers to your cart.

Hobart 210 MVP Review: Advantages

• • Welds smoothly
  • Has multi-voltage ability
  • User-friendly, with 3 simple controls
  • Offers quality performance at an affordable price
  • Nicely built with the dependability we’ve come to expect from Hobart
  • Comes with a handy Mig welding chart

Video: New Welder & Building a Welding Cart – Hobart 210 MVP

For visuals, check out the video below.

Hobart Handler 210: Special Considerations

• Since it’s heavy, it may require a cart. (To save money, you can make one, as the video above shows!)
• Because of a limited duty cycle, this isn’t the welder for more heavy duty jobs.

Best Mig Welder Under 1000: Overall Assessment

One of the most unique features of this welder is the fact that you can easily switch between 115V and 230 V input power. Its arc performance is superior to that of most welders under 1000. It is most loved for its portability which makes it the best welder for home use.

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#4. Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder
Best Cheap Mig Welder Under 2lbs

This handheld Mig welder is highly recommended in Lincoln Electric Welder reviews. It is commended for its outstanding performance, reliability and durability even when used everyday.  It works effectively for Mig and Flux core processes.

Mig Welding Machine Specs

• Processes: MIG & Flux Core
• Welding Amperage Range: 35 – 88 A
• Duty Cycle: 70A/17V/20%
• Input Voltage: 120VAC
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 50-500 IPM
• Weld Thickness: 24 ga. to 3/16 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds
• Height: 16 inches
• Length: 20 inches
• Width: 15 inches
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 1 year

Welder Parts Included

• Welding gun
• Cable assembly
• Work cable and clamp
• Gasless and gas nozzles
• Gas regulator
• Hose
• Chipping hammer and brush
• Welding hand shield with #10 filter plate
• Clear glass cover plate
• #3 .035″ and .025″ contact tip
• 1 lb. spool .035″ Innershield flux-cored wire
• 2 lb. spool .025″ SuperArc L56 solid MIG wire.

One separate item to add is quality nozzle gel.

Video: Basics of Welding with Lincoln Electric Handy Mig

Lincoln Electric Mig Welder: Advantages

• Offers good wire alignment
• Welds both gas and gasless wires excellently
• Easily adjustable and comfortable
• Hand-held
• Designed especially to reduce tangling

Lincoln Welder Review: Special Considerations

Here are just a couple of quirks to be aware of:

• Shuts down when used for long period of time on high setting
• Initially, it can be tedious to get the right wire feed setting.

Overall Assessment of this Best Mig Welder Review

This welder is an easy-to-use one suitable for beginners and professionals.  You will love the way it welds – even without a spool. It is safe and guarantees efficiency.

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#5. Forney 324 190-Amp 120V Mig Welder
Best Multi Process Welder

This welder is very suitable for Mig welding. A customer in Forney Welder Review describes this welder as “flawless, easy and fun to use”. It is well designed with metal mechanics and offers excellent value at a great price.

Multi Purpose Welder Specs:

• Processes: MIG (Gas), TIG, Flux Cored (No Gas), and Stick
• Welding Amperage Range: 190 A
• Input Voltage: 120V/230V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 
• Weight: 51.4 lbs
• Height: 16 inches
• Length: 20.25 inches
• Width: 10.25 inches
• Best Price: Check Current Discounts on Amazon
• Warranty: 5/3/1

Forney Welder Parts Included

• Flowmeter
• Gas hose
• Start-up guide
• Regulator

Welding Machine Parts Sold Separately

• Spool gun
• Foot pedal
• TIG torch

Forney Mig Welder for Sale: Advantages

• Suitable for different welding processes
• Has an inverter technology
• Suitable for use with multiple amperage or voltage inputs
• Can be easily changed to run stick electrodes
• Minimizes splatter
• Optimizes arc
• Very easy to use
• Accurately manages data and functions
• Displays output current and arc voltage digitally
• Offers a Euro-connect MIG gun for easy maintenance and repair

Special Considerations for the Forney 324

• The arc is not sustained for long
• The on/off switch is poorly located, away from the other controls

Forney Welder Review: Overall Assessment

This welder is well designed and well engineered to support all welding processes. It functions well and gets the job done. Definitely the best mig welder under 1000. 

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#6. Lotos Technology 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine
Best Mig Welder Under $500 with Plasma Cutter

This portable welding machine is the best cheap all in one welder. As a great welder for most welding processes, it gives you a lot of value for your money and is totally reliable.

Welder Specs

• Processes: TIG Welding, MMA/Stick Welding, Plasma Cutter, Non-Touch Polit Arc
• Welding Amperage Range: 50Amp (Plasma cutter), 15-200Amp (TIG welder) and 15-200 Amp (Stick/MMA welder)
• Duty Cycle: 60% at max amps on all processes
• Input Voltage: Dual – 220V/110V
• Weld Thickness: 1/2-inch
• Weight: 38.5 pounds
• Height: 11 inches
• Length: 17 inches
• Width: 8 inches
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts
• Warranty: 1 year limited warranty

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Power supply
• Cutting torch
• Tig torch
• Stick/MMA welder torch
• Consumables
• Ground clamp, air filter and regulator, connections, and argon regulator.

The Pigtail converter is sold separately.

Lotos LTPDC 2000D: Advantages

• Cuts different types of metal
• Has dual voltage
• Very easy to switch from cutting to welding
• Units and components of this welder work perfectly well
• Lightweight
• Quiet while welding
• Designed for Do-It-Yourself users
• Utilizes Pulse Width Modulation and V-MOSFETs inverter technology
• Does a good enough job for the money
• Reliable and very portable

Lotos LTPDC 2000D: Special Considerations

• Not as durable as more pricey models
• Does not cut steel

Overall Assessment

As the best cheap all in one welder, Lotos Technology uses some of the best welding technologies to make your welding smooth and easy. Lightweight and portable, this welder does a good enough job for the money.

For more Mig welding machine reviews in this price range, check out How to Find the Best Cheap Mig Welders Under $500.

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#7. SÜA ionMig 200 Multiprocess MIG/TIG/STICK Welder
Best Mig Welder for Aluminum

Specially designed to meet the needs of professional or trained welders, SÜA ionMig 200 is the highest quality Mig welder for sale. This multiprocess welder is great for MIG, TIG and Stick welding processes.

Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG/MAG, MMA and Lift TIG
• Welding Amperage Range: 200 A
• Duty Cycle: (40^oC, 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
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 
• Weight: 51.3 pounds
• Height: 10 inches
• Length: 17 inches
• Width: 5 inches
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts

Welding Rig Parts Included

• Power cord with a NEMA 6-50 plug
• MIG torch
• Electrode holder with a 9-ft welding cable
• Ground clamp with a 9-ft welding cable
• Argon regulator.

Optional accessories include the SUA spool gun and TIG torch.

Overall Best Welder for Mig: Highlights

• 3-in-1 multi-process welder
• Provides digital display for both current and voltage
• User-friendly
• Generator-friendly
• Very reliable with built-in protection circuit
• Saves a lot of energy
• Comes with high quality accessories
• High quality connections

Special Considerations

• There may be some issues with the power connection.
• When used with a generator, it draws it hard when it is striking up an arc.

Overall Assessment

This high quality welder gives you all-round welding solution. This is one outstanding product that is user-friendly, generator-friendly and spoon gun ready. SUA multipurpose welder sets the pace as the best highest quality welder.

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#8. Tweco W1003141 Fabricator with 141I 3-in-1 MIG/Stick/TIG Welding System
Best Mig Welder for Beginner

This welder is an excellent compact multi-process one. Well designed and packaged, this welder is portable, reliable and efficient. It sure gets the job done and will far exceed your expectations as the best welder under 1000.

Tweco Welder Specs:

• Processes: MIG, TIG and Stick
• Welding Amperage Range: 10A – 140 A
• Duty Cycle (at 40^oC): For MIG: 140A/19V at 15% and 90A/18.5V @ 20%; For Stick: 90A/23V at 15% and 80A/23.2V at 35%; For TIG: 140A/15.6V at 15% and 100A/14V at 20%.
• Input Voltage: 115 volts
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 100 – 600 IPM
• Weld Thickness: 3/16 inches (4.8 mm)
• Weight: 32.2 lbs (14.6 kg)
• Height: 16.14 inches
• Length: 8.27 inches
• Width: 17.72 inches
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts on Amazon
• Warranty: 5/3/1

Video: 5 Reasons to Choose a Tweco 3-in-1 Welding System

Welding Machine Parts Included

• Fabricator 141i power supply
• MIG gun
• Victor Argon Flowgauge regulator
• 12.5 ft hose
• Electrode holder
• Ground clamp
• 4 general purpose stick electrodes
• Owner’s manual and setup DVD
• Power cord
• NEMA plug
• Shoulder strap
• V drive rolls
• Contact tips

  

Parts Sold Separately: TIG Torch

Best Budget Mig Welder: Advantages

• Very flexible, portable and lightweight
• Very easy to use
• Utilizes trigger control
• Digitally displays current and voltage values
• Replaceable parts
• Utilizes a remote receptacle
• Has a well-detailed setup chart
• Offers quick change polarity
• Offers excellent quality and support

Special Considerations

• Has no pedal option

Tweco Fabricator Review: Overall Assessment

This high performance and well-built welder is one of the best welders under $1000. It is useful in most welding applications, and will get the job done easier, faster and with little or no spatter.

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#9. Everlast PowerMIG 200 (Spool Gun Ready)
Overall Best Mig Welder for the Money

When it comes to excellent features and performance, Everlast PowerMig 200 is the Best 220V Mig Welder for the Money. There are a lot of quality features that make this welder stand out from other welders on sale.

Mig Welder Specs

• Processes: MIG, Stick
• Welding Amperage Range: 200 A
• Input Voltage: 240 V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 
• Weld Thickness: 24 gauge 120/240V
• Weight: 35 lbs
• Height: 15 inches
• Length: 16 inches
• Width: 7.5 inches
• Best Price:  Check Current Discounts on Amazon

Everlast Welder Parts Included

• Spare consumable starter kit
• Euro style quick connector
• Ar/CO2 regulator
• 10 ft. series 15 MIG gun
• Work clamp with cable

Everlast Welder Parts Sold Separately

• Feed gun
• Nozzle gel
• Welding pliers

Everlast Welder Review: Advantages

• Minimal splatter arc performance provided by the digital IGBT inverter design
• Uses arc force control to adjust arc characteristics
• Flux core capable
• Utilizes a eurostyle quick couplet
• Offers excellent power and versality
• Has a dual voltage design
• Has dual digital display
• User-friendly

Everlast Mig Welder Review: Special Considerations

• Analog knobs
• Features may be a bit touchy some times

Overall Assessment

The Everlast PowerMig 200 is in a class by itself when it comes to modern and effective technologies, as well as features and performance. At such a fair price, this welder is an investment you will not regret.

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The Best Mig Welder Under 1000:
Which Mig Welder Should I Buy?

Now, the fun part: shopping. But the ball is in your court, and we want to make sure you’re comfortable investing in such an important piece of welding equipment.

Again, the best MIG welders are great assets whether you’re a beginner or professional welder. Furthermore, the 9 reviews above offer a wide range of affordable welding rigs. Since the price range is roughly $500-1000, you’re getting better quality than the cheapest models. However, check out Reviews of the Best Mig Welder Under 500 if you’re really in a cash bind.

Selecting the Best Mig Welder to Buy: Shopper’s Checklist

First, here’s a quick cheat sheet.

• First, the best MIG welder should reduce splatter while giving a smooth weld.
• Also, they’re more valuable if they work for additional welding processes, like Flux Core welding. Making sure the machine has a spool gun is essential for Flux Core.
• In general, the reviewed rigs below are between $500-$1000. Unsurprisingly, the more expensive ones do offer better quality/durability. That being said, a cheaper MIG welder is just fine if you don’t plan on frequent projects.
• Another tip is to pay attention to special features. If you want the best MIG welder for a beginner, we recommend the rigs with the easiest-to-use controls.
• Taking a second to look at the amount of power you need for your projects is a must. For example, a 110v Mig welder is great for home use/hobby projects – but you’ll need something more powerful for bigger projects.

For more details, see How to Choose the Best Mig Welding Machine.

Everything You Need to Know About MIG Welding

For MIG welding tips, advantages/disadvantages, and plenty of information videos, check out The Ultimate Guide to Mig Welding for Beginners. Here, you’ll learn everything you need to know about MIG, including its advantages and disadvantages.

Conclusion

Well, we’ve definitely covered a lot of ground in this post, haven’t we? In your search for the best budget welder, we invite you to take advantage of all of TFC’s welding machine reviews. The 9 welders above are just the beginning; don’t stop until you find the best machine for your purposes.

Thanks for stopping by!

Looking for more Mig welding supplies? Check out:
Reviews of the 12 Best Rated Welding Helmets for Mig

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The post Best Mig Welders Under 1000 Reviews: The Top 9 in 2019 appeared first on Trades For Careers.

Hobart 210 MVP Review: Table of Contents

• Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder Review: Specs, Pros, & Cons
• Hobart 190 vs 210
• Is this the Best Welder for Home Use?
• Budget Friendly Hobart Handler 210 MVP Parts List
• Owner’s Manual for Hobart 5005533 Handler 210 MVP
• Different Welder Brands: Hobart Handler 210 MVP vs Millermatic 211 [Video]
• Overall Assessment: And the verdict is…

Hobart Handler 210 MVP Review: Overview

Overall, the Handler 210 MVP is a feature-packed, top rated MIG welder for sale. For example, one of its best features is that it works with both regular home 120V outlets and 220V outlets. In fact, it comes with plugs that fit both outlet types. Additionally, the Handler 210 MVP works well with a variety of gauges and wire types.

With just a couple of examples, you can see how Hobart has designed one of the best welders for home use. As a matter of fact, most users consistently give this welding rig 5 out of 5 stars.

Hobart 210 MVP Review

In the following review, we’ll get into the specifics: what exactly does this rig have to offer? Below, you’ll find specs, advantages and disadvantages, and special considerations for this popular welder.

Hobart Machine Specs

•Accommodates These Types of Welding Processes: Both MIG & Flux Core
• Welding Amperage Range230V: 25 to 210 A
• Welding Amperage Range 115V: 25 to 140 A
• Duty Cycle: 20% at 90A
• Input Voltage: 115/230 V
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 40 to 680 IPM
• Weld Thickness: 24 ga. – 3/8 in.
• Weight: 79 pounds
• Height: 12 and 3/8”
• Length: 19 and ½”
• Width: 10 and 5/8”
• Hobart Handler 210 Best Price: Check Current Price
• Warranty: 5/3/1 Industrial Manufacturer Warranty

Pros and Cons of the Hobart Handler 210 Mig Wire Welder

Below, you’ll find descriptions of the advantages and disadvantages of the Hobart 210 wire feeder welding machine. This is broken down into 5 parts: usability, versatility, reliability, utility, and disadvantages.

How User Friendly is the 500553 Handler 210 MVP?

Specifically, the Handler 210 stands apart from its competition because it’s easy to set up and use.

• First of all, the controls are extremely simple. In total, there are just 3 controls: the on/off switch, a voltage switch, and an amperage switch. Since the knobs are so user friendly, you won’t even have to take off your gloves to change the voltage or the amperage.
• To make things even easier, the Hobart 210 Mig welder comes with a handy chart to explain what settings to use depending on the type of gas, metal, and wire you’re using to weld.
• Don’t know how thick your metal is? Hobart even threw in a gauge that you can use to find out.

Versatility of the Hobart Handler 210 MVP

Another feature that sets the Handler 210 MVP above other welders is the wide range of voltages it can handle. Usually, only more expensive welders work with 220V outlets. As you’re probably aware, most homes don’t have many 220V outlets.

• However, the Hobart Handler 210 is compatible with both standard 120V outlets and 220V outlets. The plugs attach easily to the power cable and the Handler 210 can adjust to the one you’re using.
• If you’re hooked up to a regular 110V outlet, the Handler 210 can use a maximum of 140A and weld 1/8th” steel in one sweep. If that’s not enough power, simple swap out the plugs and connect to a 220V outlet.

Reliability

Since Hobart has been manufacturing American industrial equipment for over 100 years, the brand has really established a strong reputation. The Handler 210 MVP is no exception.

• Although cast aluminum drive systems often wear out quickly in many MIG welders, this best aluminum welding machine offers unparalleled durability. Because the drive system feeds wire from the machine to the spool gun when welding, it helps prevent problems so common in other welder drive systems.
• Coupled with Hobart’s solid industrial 5/3/1 warranty, you can be sure you’ll be using your Hobart Handler 210MVP for a long time.

Utility

Whether you need to fix a toolbox, attach a trailer hitch to your truck, or weld some sheet metal, the Hobart Handler 210 has got you covered.

• Due to its dual spool hub assembly that can fit both 4 and 8 inch spools, the Handler 210 can be use with a variety of wire types and gauges from flux core steel to aluminum.
• Additionally, the Handler 210 makes it easy to change the type of wire you’re using with a three-groove quick select feature.
• Combine those features with its ergonomic and comfortable spool gun with 10 foot lead, and you’re ready to handle most lightweight fabrication welding at home or in the shop.
• For trickier aluminum wire welding, the Handler 210 comes ready-to-use with Hobart’s SpoolRunner 100 spool gun. This makes aluminum welding more efficient and almost splatter free.
• Best of all, you don’t even need to buy extra kits or tools to attach the SpoolRunner 100. Simply hook it up to the Handler 210’s special spool gun circuitry and weld away.

Hobart Handler 210 MVP Review: Special Considerations/Potential Disadvantages

Although the Hobart aluminum welder is fantastic, here are 4 potential drawbacks:

• Since it’s 79lbs, the Handler 210 is not as portable as other welders. However, a Hobart cart helps immensely. (You can even learn how to build your own cart.)
• Also, the work clamp and ground wire can be a little stiff.
• A limited duty cycle is another thing to consider.
• In terms of cost, the SpoolRunner 100 for aluminum welding is sold separately.

Hobart 190 vs 210

Next, it’s worth comparing the Hobart Handler 190 vs 210. Below, we’ll look at both the advantages and disadvantages of the Hobart 190 vs 210.

Here are the benefits of the Hobart 190:

• In one sense, the Handler 190 is great for beginners and home welders, since it’s powerful enough for most light fabrication.
• Since it’s significantly cheaper, it’s a much better budget welder option.

However, the Hobart Handler 210 has some major advantages over the Hobart 190:

• First of all, the Handler 210 has a higher duty cycle.
• It also features a better ground clamp and is compatible with the SpoolRunner 100 spool gun. With the Spool Gun, MIG welding aluminum is much better.
• Finally, it runs on both 110V and 220V outlets.

Hobart 190 vs 210: And the Best Welder Is…

In reality, the verdict is that these are both great welding machines for sale, and it depends on the type of welding machine that best suits your needs.

For those looking to build a business around welding or who frequently require more powerful welding should buy the Handler 210. Also, if you want the best aluminum welder, you should really invest in the Hobart Handler 210 and the compatible spool gun.

However, the Handler 190 is still a good budget option due to its lower price, ease-of-use, and versatility.

Hobart 210 MVP Review: Is this the Best Welder for Home Use?

If you’re a home welder, the Hobart 210 welder is a great contender. But it also has some flaws. Here are the ways this is one of the best welders for home use:

• Hobart Dual Voltage MIG Welder: Usually, welding machines are only compatible with 120V outlets or rarer 220V outlets. But the Handler 210 allows you to use both. So, if you want to weld at home, this welder eliminates the expensive and time-consuming process of installing more 220V outlets.
• Portability: However, the Handler 210’s weight does limit its portability. Because of this, you should consider purchasing a cart or even a lighter inverter welder if you need to change locations frequently.
• Limited Duty Cycle: The Handler 210 also has a limited duty cycle, so for heavy duty welding tasks, you should consider a more powerful welder.

All in all, the Handler 210 MVP performs beautifully for home welding. Especially when you consider the versatility and reliability you’re getting for less than $1000.

Hobart Handler 210 MVP Parts: Get the Most Bang for Your Buck

Without a doubt, the Hobart Handler 210 MVP bundle is a great deal.

In addition to the welder itself, it comes with additional parts included.

• Roll of 0.030″ Aluminum Welding Wire
• Hobart Nozzle Gel
• Multi-Function Welding Pliers

Hobart Handler 210 MVP Manual

Hobart includes a comprehensive and informative owner’s manual for the Handler 210 MVP. Here are some links featuring free online versions of the manual:

• https://www.hobartwelders.com/om/6digit/o227978b_hob.pdf
• https://www.manualslib.com/manual/820418/Hobart-Handler-210.html

Hobart Handler 210 MVP vs Millermatic 211

Many users compare the Miller 211 vs Hobart 210. Now, the Millermatic 211 has a few features worth considering over the Handler 210.

• While the Handler 210 has a 7 position voltage selector switch, the Millermatic has continuously variable voltage. In other words, the Millermatic 211 can automatically set voltage and wire feed speed.
• Another advantage is that Millermatic 211 has more power, which is worth the extra cost for some people,
• However, some users claim that the Handler 210 MVP’s voltage selector switch is more precise and this makes it easier to make the right weld.
• Another comparison is that the Millermatic is heavier, making it less portable than the Handler 210 MVP.

Video: Millermatic 211 Mig Welder Review

Let’s take a step away from the Hobart 210 vs Miller 211 comparison to take a deeper look at the Miller 211.

The post Hobart Handler 210 MVP Review: To Buy or Not to Buy? appeared first on Trades For Careers.