When looking for your next best MIG welder it is important for you to understand exactly what you are getting with each machine. You have decided to use the MIG continuous wire-feed versus the TIG wire rod feed, and are now looking for a reliable machine that gives you versatility. The good news for you is that there are plenty of MIG welders out in the market, at plenty of different price points to meet any budget.
Obviously if money is not a concern for you then you can afford to spend a little extra cash and get a machine that has extreme customizable features and can operate on any metal with no problems. If money is a concern, you will be happy to know that we have included many affordable options that are still more than capable of getting the job done. Even if you are completely new to welding and are in the market to learn, there is a machine designed for your skill level.
We want to make sure you find the right welder that matches your needs and desires. Whether you are a professional that needs a new MIG out on a job site or a do-it-yourselfer that could use a new machine around the house, we have a welder for you.
Our Picks For The Best MIG Welder
Hobart Ironman 230
The Hobart Ironman 230 is a professional grade MIG welder that delivers elite power and performance. It is larger than the other the other MIG welders on this list but it packs the most features and can handle any variety of job. The Ironman operates on a 230-volt capacity and has 12 settings that allow you to adjust the output depending on the job. It delivers 30-250 amps of power and is optimized to deliver a flawless weld every time.
It can also weld 24 gauge up to ½ inch in a single pass with the option Hobart DP-3545-20 spool gun. The spool hub can hold 2, 10, 33, and 45 lb wires. It is easy to spool with a tool-less brake tension know and automatic wire alignment. The drive wire system delivers 0 to 700 IPM wire feed speed. It also allows you to do gas and flux welding. You don’t have to be a professional welder to be able to use this machine, its advance features are easy to use and require a low to moderate skill level to operate.
Advantages of the Hobart Ironman 230
- Operates on a 230-volt capacity
- Has 12 voltage settings for easy control
- Can weld 24 gauge to ½ inch in single pass
- Spool hub holds 2, 10, 33 and 45 lb wires
- Gas and flux welding
Disadvantages of the Hobart Ironman 230
- Expensive model
- Large body, not easily portable
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Hobart Handler 210 MVP
Coming in second on our list is another Hobart product, the Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder. Unlike its Ironman big brother, it has a smaller body and easily portable. The Handler 210 MVP operates on dual-voltage at 115V and 230V with seven voltage settings to aid with precision welding. The 115 V has an output of 25 to 140 amps. The 230V has an output of 25 to 210 amps. Although it is smaller than the Ironman, the Handler 210 MVP is a rugged machine packed in a small case weighing only 87 lbs.
Similar to the larger model, the Handler 210 MVP also has an optional spool gun, the SpoolRunner 100. The Handler 210 MVP welds 24 gauge up to 3/8 inch mild steel. This MIG welder is perfect for any DIY project at home and is only requires a low skill level to operate.
Advantages of the Hobart Handler 210 MVP
- Easily portable
- Seven voltage settings
- Ideal for beginners
- Welds 24 gauge to 3/8 inch steel
- Welds stainless and aluminum
Disadvantages of the Hobart Handler 210 MVP
- Expensive compared to similar models
- No flux welding
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Lotos MIG175
The Lotos MIG175AMP MIG Welder delivers power and performance with high voltage in a 175-amp motor. With the MIG175 you can operate between 200 and 240 volts, which is equivalent to other expensive models. The efficiency of this welder allows you to work with mild and stainless steels, as well as aluminum. The welding capacity for mild and stainless steel is 18 gauge to ¼ inch. The welding capacity for aluminum is 3/8 inch or thinner. Included with the MIG175 is a high-speed MIG spool gun for aluminum welding.
Similar to the Hobart Handler 210 MVP, the MIG175 is easily portable and only weighs 85 lbs. You are given ten settings to customize both your voltage settings and wire speed. The MIG175 also comes with thermal overload protection which is an impressive safety feature.
Advantages of the Lotos MIG175
- Operates between 200 and 240 volts
- 10 voltage settings
- Can work with mild and stainless steels, as well as aluminum
- Weighs 85 lbs
- Thermal overload protection
Disadvantages of the Lotos MIG175
- Does not display exact values for each setting
- Cannot weld 24 gauge steel
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MIG Welder Inverter MIG Welding 200Amp
The MIG Welder Inverter MIG Welding 200Amp from Hitbox delivers a lot of power in a compact design. It has an incredible range of 160 to 270 volts, which should be plenty for any of your jobs. Unlike the LOTOS model above, this Hitbox allows you to use digital customization to get your desired results. It also comes with an LED display that tells your precise voltage and wire speeds. If the unit is close to overheating, it will indicate that to you through warning lights and has an automatic shutdown after a certain point to ensure the best overall safety for you.
The Hitbox MIG200 is extremely flexible, allowing you to do gas or flux-core welding. Included with this welder is an MB15 MIG gun. The Hitbox MIG200 is a super compact machine, weighing only 22 lbs. It has an energy-efficient motor that allows you to plug it into a generator, which makes it convenient when you are out in the field or don’t have immediate access to electric power.
Advantages of the MIG Welder Inverter MIG Welding 200Amp
- High voltage capacity
- Gas or flux-core welding
- Lightweight model
- Adjustable voltage settings, with digital display
- Energy-efficient design
Disadvantages of the MIG Welder Inverter MIG Welding 200Amp
- Not designed for aluminum welding
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Lotos MIG140
The Lotos MIG140 Amp MIG is the smaller version of the Lotos MIG175. It operates at 110 volts and allows you to work with regular and stainless steels, as well as aluminum. Unlike other models on this list, the Lotos MIG140 does not come with a spool – you will need to purchase this separately. The MIG140 is capable to weld 18 gauge to 3/16 inch stainless and mild steels, and 1/8” or thinner for aluminum. It does not have as much versatility as other options on this list but it is still an overall solid machine.
The MIG140 also gives you 10 different settings and a 2T/4T switch that allows you to customize how fast the welder heats up. To ensure you get precise results every time, there are two displays that show the current voltage and percentage.
Advantages of the Lotos MIG140
- 10 variable voltage settings
- Lightweight (54 lbs)
- 2T and 4T switch built-in
- Works on stainless and aluminum
- Easy to transport
Disadvantages of the Lotos MIG140
- No spool gun
- Operates at 110V
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Everlast PowerMIG 200
The Everlast PowerMIG 200 is a compact model that delivers enough power to take care of any job. This model is popular among users because it doesn’t generate as much of a spatter arc as other models with similar specs. The PowerMIG 200 has a digital IGBT Inverter design that aids in the low spatter arc performance by providing a stable weld distribution. Another feature to help with the spatter arc is the arc force control where you can adjust the arc.
The PowerMIG 200 is a 200amp MIG stick welder dual voltage at 110V and 220V – this gives you the option to weld most metals, including aluminum. This is an extremely powerful and versatile machine filled with plenty of features to fully customize your weld. A dual digital display gives both volt and amp readouts allowing for precise parameters dependent on each job. You can also do both gas and flux-core welding. The PowerMIG 200 also comes with safety features including thermal overload warning.
This machine has a lightweight design and weighs only 35 lbs. The PowerMIG 200 is a great machine for both beginners and professionals, capable of meeting any of your welding needs.
Advantages of the Everlast PowerMIG 200
- Dual-voltage design
- Low spatter arc
- Gas and flux-core welding
- Operates between 110-220 volts
- Lightweight design (35 lbs)
Disadvantages of the Everlast PowerMIG 200
- More expensive compared to similar models
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Everlast MIG140
Another impressive lightweight option for those looking to go portable, is the Everlast MIG140. This machine operates up to 120V of power and is designed for gas operation. You can also adjust to flux-core welding if you want. The MIG140 is designed for beginners and everyday do-it-yourselfers. Although it is a beginner’s machine, it does provide you with enough customization options to fit any job. It is also extremely lightweight and weighs only 25 pounds – the perfect size for having around the house.
The MIG140 comes out of the economy line of inverter MIG welders from Everlast but is promised to not skimp on delivering power and performance capability. Its IGBT inverter design allows it to put out a higher amp output compared to transformer based MIG welders. It also comes with a 15 Series MIG gun, work clamp, Ar/CO2 regulator and consumable start kit. This is a great machine for those trying to learn or just have something extremely portable and easy to get to when the job calls.
Advantages of the Everlast MIG140
- Extremely portable and lightweight (25 lbs)
- Gas and flux-core capabilities
- Good starter kit
- IGBT inverter design
- Easy to use
Disadvantages of the Everlast MIG140
- No aluminum spool provided
- Not designed for high-performance use
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Longevity MIGweld 140
The Longevity MIGweld 140-140AMP is another extremely portable and compact designed welder. It operates on 110V standard outlet power so it can be used just about anywhere. It also comes with gas or flux-core welding capabilities. This machine can some steel but if you want to expand to other metals you have the option to get another spool gun with more metalworking capability. Although the Longevity 140 only has a 110 volt capacity, you have the option to adjust the settings to your custom job.
Among these are the ability to customize the speed of your wire as well as the voltage level. As-is the machine is able to weld up to 3/8 inch of mild steel. It is a little bit heavier than some of the other compact designs but is still readily accessible, weighing just under 62 lbs. The Longevity 140 is primarily geared towards beginners and smaller DIY projects, but it is a great welder to learn on until you are ready for a more advanced model with additional features.
Advantages of the Longevity MIGweld 140
- Gas and flux-core welding
- 110V capacity
- Adjustable voltage
- Adjustable speed
- Great starter welder
Disadvantages of the Longevity MIGweld 140
- Aluminum spool not included
- Not great for advanced projects
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Mophorn MIG MMA Arc Welder 200 Amp
The Mophorn MIG Welder 200 Amp is a multifunction machine that is great for working with several metal types. It is suitable for welding low-carbon steel, alloyed steel and stainless steel. It operates on 220V and has a stable wire speed. The motor is extremely efficient and power saving. The MIG MMA comes with an automatic voltage pulsation compensation capability which provides good arcing and limited spatter. Long welding time is ensured through the built-in fan that keeps the motor cool while running.
The MIG MMA 200 Amp also comes with an anti-stick function that controls the welding current after sticking. This is a great machine for do-it-yourselfers who want a little bit more power than other budget models on this list.
Advantages of the Mophorn MIG MMA Arc Welder 200 Amp
- Multifunctional
- Good arcing
- 220V capability
- Great for more advanced DIY
Disadvantages of the Mophorn MIG MMA Arc Welder 200 Amp
- Limited scope
- Can pay a little more for better quality
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Forney Easy Weld 29901 125FC
The Forney Easy Weld 299 125FC is a great budget option for those looking to save some money and get started on their next welding project. It does have flux-core capabilities and is great for welding mild steel. It is primarily designed for smaller jobs and has a 120V capacity. You do have the option to adjust the wire speed though depending on your desired weld. It is another awesome lightweight option and weighs only 35lbs. The Easy Weld 299 can handle wire diameter up to 0.03 inches and can weld a plate thickness of 24 gauge to ¼ inch.
It is extremely easy to use so if you are new to welding, this is a great tool to start with. It doesn’t have a lot of fancy features but that should be expected at this price point. This is an affordable budget MIG welder that can introduce you to welding and get your started. It also comes with flux-core wire, black leather welding gloves, and a Premier Series CamoADF helmet.
Advantages of the Forney Easy Weld 29901 125FC
- Great starter kit
- Cost-effective
- 120V capacity
- Adjustable wire speed
- Perfect for DIY
Disadvantages of the Forney Easy Weld 29901 125FC
- Novice model
- Not designed for large jobs
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Finding The Best MIG Welder For Your Needs
Picking your next, or first MIG welder, should be dependent on your needs and desires of what you want to get out of your machine. If you have larger industrial jobs you probably want to spend the extra cash and invest in a machine that gives you elite power and performance. We recommend the Hobart 500536 Ironman 230 if you are looking for a machine with plenty of power and tons of customization offerings.
It will be able to provide exactly what you need on the job site and can handle any task you put in front of it. It also weighs almost 225 lbs so it is not the most portable but it does come with wheels so you can move it around your shop with ease. If you are looking for a machine with similar capabilities but also more portable, the Hobart Handler 210 MVP is a great option.
If you want to have a welder with similar specs but don’t want to pay the Hobart prices, look into the Lotos machines. The Lotos MIG175 is going to have more power than the Lotos MIG140, but both have comparable specs. The Lotos MIG175 is going to be a larger model of the Lotos MIG140 so if the smaller fits your needs, you may not have to spend the extra money unless you want the larger model.
The MIG Welder Inverter MIG Welding 200Amp from Hitbox is another great option if you want a machine that has some flexibility as well as power. It has gas and flux-core capabilities, but the only drawback is that it is not designed for aluminum welding.
Two extremely lightweight and compact designs can be found in the Everlast MIG140 and Everlast PowerMIG 200. Both machines have low spatter arc and are capable of adjusting voltage and wire speeds – the PowerMIG 200 is simply more powerful than the MIG140. If you are looking for a welder to learn on you may want to start with one of our budget friendly options, either the Longevity MIGweld 140-140AMP, Mophorn MIG Welder 200 Amp, or the Fourney Easy Weld 299 125FC.