Best MIG Welding Machines - Top Picks
Just getting started welding or looking to replace an existing welder? Check out the following guide for our picks for the Best MIG Welders available today. There are a lot of different MIG machines on the market today and comparing features isn’t always easy or intuitive.
For those just starting to learn, most of these welders feature easy controls and adjustment. They make finding that perfect setting easy with just a little bit of practice.
We’ve carefully looked over the different MIG welders on the market and have chosen these seven as our top picks. Check out the comparisons below to learn more about these MIG welding machines to help you find the perfect welder for your needs.
Hobart Handler 210 MVP
Hobart is one of the most established names in the welding equipment industry with 100 years of experience. The Handler 210 MVP is the culmination of their experience and is one of the company’s best sellers. It’s designed to be a heavy-duty tool with all of the features you need to complete just about any project. This welder is fast, it’s flexible, and it’s a good welder for many tasks. Though primarily designed for experienced users and professionals, a beginner can learn how to use the Handler 210 MVP fairly easily. If you’re ready to invest in a MIG welder, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Welds many different metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, and iron.
- Has an optional spool gun that is highly rated.
Cons:
- Heavier than many other options, decreasing its portability.
- The spool gun is extra, so you have to include that in your budget.
- It’s a little too powerful for some very delicate projects.
Miller Electric Millermatic 211
The Miller Electric Millermatic 211 MIG welder is a great choice if you’re mostly working with soft steel or aluminum. It can operate at two voltages (120 and 240, as the name suggests) and can handle metal up to 3/8th inch thick. While it can be used in professional auto body workshops, this welder is also perfect for the DIY hobbyist. It features an auto-set element that makes it easy to consistently make precise welds and allows new welders to quickly begin working.
Pros:
- The multi-voltage options allow you to use this welder in many places.
- Lightweight and smaller than some other options.
- It can be used to weld both fairly thin and fairly thick metals.
Cons:
- It’s often priced higher than other options.
- It’s easy for new welders to use, but it may have more features than they currently need.
Hobart Handler 190 with SpoolRunner 100
The Hobart Handler 190 is a very affordable MIG welder that still delivers everything you could need. It’s ideal for welding aluminum and steel, has an output of up to 190A, and offers seven different voltage options for flexibility. It has a built-in wire feeder and can handle metals up to 5/16th inch thick. This means you can use it for everything from working on metal fencing and equipment to DIY projects and household items.
Pros:
- Easy to use, making it a great option for beginners.
- Voltage options from 25A to 190A.
- SpoolRunner for welding aluminum
- The regulated wire feed feature is usually not found on welders in this price range.
Cons:
- Needs a 220V outlet to use.
- There are cheaper options out there if you’re looking for a basic MIG welder to get started with.
Forney 318 190
If you’re looking for a basic, easy to use, and reliable MIG welder, the Forney 318 190 is your go-to piece of equipment. It’s not going to have all the bells and whistles that some models do, but if you’re new to MIG welding and want something that’s going to let you jump right in, this Forney model does just that. This welder is designed for light projects using metal 3/8” inch thick. It uses 220V of power, so it’s more powerful than some other beginner welders. The Fourney 318 is also very affordable and is easy to take with you to the job site.
Pros:
- Features six different voltage options.
- Very easy to use.
- Designed to be durable.
Cons:
- It does lack some features that you may later need.
- Not as powerful as some of the other 220V welders on the market.
Hobart Handler 140
The third Hobart brand welder on this list, the Hobart Handler 140 is just as reliable. It uses a 110V outlet, so you can use it just about anywhere. The welder is fairly compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to take it wherever you go. Out of the three Handler welders on the list, this is the least powerful one, but it still provides 140A of power and is perfect for many different projects. It can weld aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, in addition to other thin materials. The Handler 140 includes built-in wire feeding and has four voltage options.
Pros:
- Runs on a 110V outlet.
- Less spatter than some other welders.
- Great for beginners.
Cons:
- Not ideal for larger projects.
- Has no direct AC power supply, so it may not work with some generators.
- Not the welder for pros or those who will be welding a lot.
Forney Easy Weld 140 MP
When it says “easy” in the name, you expect the product to be fairly simple to use, and the Forney Easy Weld 140 MP doesn’t disappoint in that area. It’s a very good welder for beginners. Being a multi-process welder, the Easy Weld 140 will also do TIG and stick welding, though you’ll need to buy some extra accessories for TIG. It’s got it all, which means it can be the go-to welder for those just getting started.
Pros:
- You get three welders in one.
- It’s easy to get started and change settings.
- It has a number of accessories included.
Cons:
- It’s more expensive than a base MIG welder
- You do need to buy some additional items for TIG welding.
- It’s 140 amp power output is a little low for some tasks.
Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core
Last but not least is the Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core welder. It’s designed to be the welder for everyone. While it’s great for beginners and most hobbyists, of course it may be a little lacking for pros or those who weld all the time. That said, it’s very affordable, lightweight, and reliable. You can start welding within just a few minutes of getting it out of the box.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Uses a 110V outlet.
- Great welder for the price.
Cons:
- Not the best option for large projects.
- Does not use shielding gas, which is limiting.
Conclusion
All seven of these MIG welders are great options for beginners, though some may fit your needs or your budget better than others. Compare what they offer and make your final decision based on your welding needs.
