Since their introduction in the early 1800s, MIG welders have been the most popular and commonly used welding machines. Best MIG welders are the most user-friendly, and while they don’t make as good welds as TIG machines, they do speed up complex tasks and save money on fabrication.
Because of these factors, it’s no surprise that they’re the most popular welder on the internet. There are undoubtedly three figures worth of machines to choose from, and with more possibilities comes greater risk.
So, how do you choose between the two? If you’re an experienced welder who’s tried a variety of MIG equipment, the job is slightly easier; nonetheless, for most people, it’s almost a guessing game without hours of research.
Based on years of MIG welding experience and hours of MIG welder research, we’ve selected the top ten MIG welders online. We’ve written detailed MIG welder reviews that explain what’s good and what’s not about each machine. We have no preference for one brand over another. The brief comparison guide gives you a quick overview, but you can also go through our MIG welder reviews to get a better understanding of which one is right for you.
Top 10 Best MIG Welders
Here are the top MIG welders without further bother.
- Hobart Handler 210 MIG Welder
- Forney 271 110v MIG Welder
- The Millermatic 211 MIG Welder
- LOTOS MIG175 MIG Welder
- Lincoln Electric K2698-1 Easy MIG Welder
- Weldpro Inverter Stick/Arc MIG Welder
- SUNGOLDPOWER 200A MIG Welder
- Reboot MIG150 DC 220V MIG Welder
- HITBOX Inverter MIG-Welder
- ESAB 120/230-Volt TIG/Stick/MIG Welder
Best MIG Welder Reviews
This article will go through the characteristics and benefits of the best MIG welders, which will surely justify their purchase.
We’ll also go through the pros and drawbacks of each welder so you can decide which is best for you.
Let’s get started with the best MIG welders in-depth reviews.
1. Hobart Handler 210 MIG Welder – Best Pick
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 25-210
- Duty Cycle 20% @ 90A
- Input Voltage 115/230
- Weight is 79 lb
- Dimensions 12.4 x 10.6 x 19.5
The Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder is the best MIG welder on the market right now. It has a good price-to-performance ratio, a wide amperage range, and high-quality components. It isn’t the cheapest machine on our list, but it offers the best value for money and has a proven track record of reliability.
It has a vast and growing range of amperage settings, as well as a vast and growing range of wire speeds. This gives you complete flexibility over the arrangement you choose for each job. Setting up and using the device does not necessitate a great deal of knowledge. It’s designed for a variety of uses, including industrial welding, but it’s also simple enough for beginners to use.
The 210 MVP is not ideal for on-site work or being moved to different sites on a regular basis because it is heavier than other 210-amp welders. It is, nevertheless, well-suited to a stationary workbench configuration and well-organized for ease of use. It produces an incredibly smooth and steady arc. It does not surprise you and has minimal spatter worries, unlike other lower-quality MIG machines.
This machine is great for beginners searching for a high-quality machine to learn on as well as fabricators looking for a low-cost, dependable machine. Many aspiring welders over the world prefer it, and it’ll most likely offer you all you need for a 210 amp machine.
Overall, this is one of the best MIG welders on the market right now for home use.
Pros
- Ample amperage range
- Simple to use
- A variety of wire speeds
- Adetailed welding diagram
- Reasonably priced for the level of quality
- It’s made up of high-quality components.
Cons
- Heavier than other
- An aluminum spool gun is not included.
2. Forney 271 110v MIG Welder – Best Value
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 10 – 140A
- Duty Cycle 30% @ 90A
- Output Voltage 12/23V
- Weight is 25.8 lb
- Dimensions 14.19 x 19.31 x 11.61
The Forney Easy Weld 271, 140 MP Welder is the best MIG machine you can get for the money. In terms of amperage, it’s a smaller machine than the Hobart 210 MVP, but it’s a lot less expensive and has a lot of great features.
It’s a high-quality machine that’s ideal for beginners who want to learn on a lower-amperage machine. Whether you have previous welding knowledge or not, the welder is simple to operate and comes with a full instruction booklet that makes the process even easier.
The 140 MP is one of the most popular MIG machines on the market, and it can also TIG weld if you purchase a TIG lead and want to expand your welding abilities. The leads on this machine aren’t as long as we’d like, but few stock leads are unless you buy a Miller Electric 907614 MIG Welder or something similar.
The Forney 271 110v MIG Welder is small and light, with a strong, heavy-duty casing. This makes it ideal for use outside of the office, where it is more susceptible to damage and must be carried. It can also run on 110 volts if you don’t have access to 240-volt energy.
Although, this machine lays a bead that is substantially identical to the Hobart 210 MVP in terms of quality, penetration, and smooth consistency. If you don’t need to fuse thick sections and want to save money without sacrificing quality, we recommend this machine because of its inexpensive price. Overall, this is one of the best MIG welders for the money right now.
Pros
- Superior quality
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- An easy-to-follow instruction book
Cons
- Low power consumption
- Short leads
3. The Millermatic 211 MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 30-230
- Duty Cycle 40% @ 150A
- Input Voltage 115/230
- Weight is 38 lb
- Dimensions 12.5 x 11.25 x 20.5
The Millermatic 211 MIG Welder is a high-end machine utilized by some of the best professional welders in the world. It’s a more expensive option, but it’s picked for its constant quality, exceptional performance, and mobility. It can be used in any workshop, but it’s especially effective outside of the workshop for high-level work.
It has a one-of-a-kind smooth start process that ensures no splatter or deformed bead profile when the wire first creates the arc, as many other machines do. Although this technology is found in other larger shop welders, it is unique to the Millermatic 211 in the compact MIG category.
On the market, there isn’t a more dependable welder. Despite the higher cost, the long-term value and high quality of the work completed making it a wise investment. Although the 10-foot gun lead reach isn’t as long as we’d like, stock leads are becoming increasingly scarce.
If you need more information, there’s a chart on the inside of the spool door and guidance around the voltage dial to assist you to figure out what amperage you should be using. If you’re considering purchasing this welder, keep in mind that Miller will give you a cash rebate if you purchase it through a recommended dealer, such as their own Amazon seller.
Pros
- Extra-durable
- The possible highest quality
- A wide range of settings
- Great MIG gun in stock
- Portable
- Long-term commitment
Cons
- Costly
- The ground clamp isn’t strong enough
4. LOTOS MIG175 MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 175 amp
- Duty Cycle 30% @135A
- Input Voltage 220/240V
- Weight is 85 lb
- Dimensions 18 x 12.5 x 10.5
If you don’t mind a lower-quality welder but want more MIG welding options, we recommend the LOTOS MIG175 175AMP Mig Welder. It comes with a number of essential features, including an aluminum spool gun. Aluminum can be welded with most MIG machines, but it requires a specially designed spool gun to feed the soft aluminum wire.
The spool gun that comes with it feeds the wire smoothly and prevents it from folding in the lead. Although the machine does not come with a long warranty, it is a cost-effective piece of equipment that has been known to outlast the warranty much beyond its expiration date.
The weld quality isn’t quite up to Miller’s standards, but it’ll generate some nice beads on any weld-able metal. As long as the welder is set to the right conditions, it also produces mostly spatter-free welds. There is usually a small amount of splatter as compared to other low-quality machines.
We’ve seen better welding guns and leads, but this isn’t one of them. Because it’s a rare type that won’t fit with normal firearms, replacing the connector is difficult. A high-quality aftermarket torch isn’t necessary because the equipment isn’t meant for industrial use.
If you’re a dedicated welder searching for a machine to use at home, the MIG175 is a machine we recommend checking into. This is especially true if you plan to MIG weld metal.
Pros
- A metal spool gun is included.
- Affordably priced for what it offers
- Produces clean welds
- Serious enthusiasts will love it.
Cons
- The MIG gun isn’t very effective.
- Not for daily use in the workshop
5. Lincoln Electric K2698-1 Easy MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 30-180 Amps
- Duty Cycle 30%
- Input Voltage 208/240V
- Weight is 66 lb
- Dimensions 14 x 10.15 x 18.6
Lincoln Electric is another manufacturer of high-quality welders. The LINCOLN ELECTRIC K2698-1 180 MIG Welder stands out among the competition, even though its level isn’t as high as Miller Electrics.
It comes with a decent guarantee that typically ensures you get your money’s worth, but it falls short of the Miller Electric Millermatic 211 MIG Welder in terms of performance. It does, however, come with a variety of attachments, unlike some other machines.
The K2698-1 produces a beautiful bead with low spatter on moderate sections, but you shouldn’t use it for harder welding because it only reaches 180 amps maximum. In addition, the weld isn’t as consistent as we would have liked for the price. It’s a straightforward machine to set up, and it includes a user handbook as well as an e-manual if needed. It has a fine gun and ground clamp, but given the machine’s price, they’re not exceptional.
Lincoln Electric products, such as superb welding helmets and other high-quality welding equipment, are favored by some. If you like their look, this is the best MIG welder to go with. Otherwise, the Miller Electric Millermatic 211 MIG Welder is a better premium option at a similar price.
Pros
- Superior quality
- A wide range of settings
- Stock wire is included
- Portable
Cons
- Higher price
- The weld homogeneity isn’t perfect
6. Weldpro Inverter Stick/Arc MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 30-155 Amp
- Input Voltage 120/230V
- Weight is 34.4 lbs
- Dimensions 22.4 × 11.6 × 21.7 in
For amateurs and others searching for a low-cost solution, the Weldpro 155 Amp Inverter MIG Welder is a good choice. It’s one of the tiniest MIG welders on the market, and it’s extremely portable, as it can be plugged into both 110 and 220-volt outlets.
Also intriguing are the 2T and 4T switches. You can choose between manual and automatic wire feeding depending on the type of weld and your preferences. If you’re running lengthy beads or welding in tight spaces where you can’t hold the flame properly, you can let the torch feed itself.
Although the leads aren’t as long as we’d like, it’s a less-priced model that lets you install aftermarket parts, like a longer pistol lead, if necessary. Weldpro is a well-known welder manufacturer with lengthy experience in the field. They are known for using high-quality materials at a minimal cost. This 155-amp machine is a great example of what may be done.
You may save money while still getting a good welder if you get this equipment. It isn’t a Miller, and it lacks the diversity of the LOTOS MIG175, but it is perfect for beginners.
Pros
- It’s small and easy to transport.
- Beginners will find it simple to use.
- High-quality components
- Reasonably priced
- Different MIG settings
Cons
- Quick turnaround times
- Low power consumption
7. SUNGOLDPOWER 200A MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 200 amp
- Input Voltage 110V/220V
- Weight is 33 lb
- Dimensions 19.6 x 9.4 x 14.9
The Weldpro 155 Amp Inverter MIG Welder costs more, while the SUNGOLDPOWER 200A MIG Welder costs less and is of lower quality. However, it has a higher amperage and produces cleaner welds. It welds hot for a 200-amp welder, allowing you to weld a wide range of materials, including heavy-gauge parts.
Despite its size, the machine pales in comparison to Weldpro’s 155-amp Welder. It includes a number of attachments, none of which are especially useful. The gun isn’t very attractive, and there are only four different leads available. They’re all functional and weldable, but they’re on the low end of the accessory spectrum.
You may use the machine with other guns and clamps because all of the connectors are standard. Some low-cost machines have odd interfaces that make this impossible, whereas SUNGOLDPOWER products are built to be versatile.
This machine isn’t for you if you need to do a lot of welding. This is a nice machine to consider for most hobbyist activities, including semi-regular heavy-gauge plate welding.
Pros
- It’s small and easy to transport.
- Affordable
- Welds are hot enough for the amperage range.
- Solidly built machine
Cons
- The face shield is useless.
- A regulator isn’t included in the plan.
8. Reboot MIG150 DC 220V MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 30-140A
- Duty Cycle 70%
- Input Voltage 220 V
- Weight is 22.7 lb
- Dimensions 19 x 14.9 x 12.2
The Reboot MIG150 DC 220V Inverter MIG Welder is a good pick if you’re looking for a low-cost piece of equipment that nonetheless does a good job welding. The instruction handbook for the machine isn’t really helpful, but the welder is simple to use, so you shouldn’t need it if you have a basic understanding of welding machines.
Although there are less expensive machines available, they are unlikely to weld as well as this one. Although it’s a low-cost option, the bead is tidy and spatter-free for light welding. Because it welds at an average temperature, we don’t recommend buying it if you need to fuse anything thicker than 3/16-inch material unless you plan to weld numerous passes.
Only a 220-volt supply can power the MIG150, making it less appealing. Reboot MIG 150 is good if your garage only has 220 volts; however, we don’t recommend it if you need to use it in several locations or don’t have access to 220 volts.
Reboot’s customer service is adequate. They care about their customers and do their best to assist you; but, their English isn’t flawless, and they don’t have as much welding knowledge as they should. Overall, it’s not our favorite welder, but it’s a fantastic pick if you’re searching for a low-cost alternative to one of the top 220v MIG welders.
Pros
- Reasonable price
- A nice and tidy weld profile.
- Easy to use
Cons
- A manual that isn’t up to par.
- Low-current range
- Poor-quality welder
9. HITBOX Inverter MIG-Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 40-170A
- Duty Cycle 60% @ 150A
- Input Voltage 110V/220V
- Weight is 36.5 lb
- Dimensions 18.9 x 15.35 x 11.81
The HITBOX Multifunction Synergic 200Amp Inverter MIG Welder is a great starter or backup machine. It does, however, have a number of flaws that have put it to the bottom of our list.
For the services it provides, it is cost-effective. It has a 200-amp rating and creates a hotter arc than typical 200-amp units. If you purchase a lift TIG torch, you will have the option of connecting a TIG welder to the machine. It is, however, a synergic welder with a limited set of preset parameters. The synergic machine is pre-programmed with precise welding conditions based on the wire size and amperage you pick.
HITBOX Multifunction Synergic 200Amp Inverter MIG Welder is useful when learning because it eliminates the need to calculate the correct wire speed to amperage rate based on wire and plate thickness. It does, however, have only two metric wire sizes and no flexibility for adding slightly more or less wire-speed if required, unlike most synergic machines.
The welder can run for significantly longer than practically any other piece of equipment this size before maximizing the duty cycle. This is advantageous, but it is possible that a lower-quality computer may not last as long as other computers as a result of this.
Despite the fact that we don’t recommend this machine as highly as other smaller 200-amp welders, it does make beautiful welds and is reasonably priced for what you get.
Pros
- Multi-function machine
- Adjustable synergic parameters that are pre-programmed
- Affordability
Cons
- Limited warranty.
- Average-quality product
10. ESAB 120/230-Volt TIG/Stick/MIG Welder
Key Features:
- Amperage Range 5-240 A
- Duty Cycle 25%
- Input Voltage 120/230 V
- Weight is 40 lb
- Dimensions 23 x 9 x 16
The ESAB EMP215IC 120/230-Volt MIG/TIG/Stick Welder is the tenth machine we’ve looked at. Another synergic machine with a range of features, including a TIG torch. In theory, this is one of the best MIG welders on the market.
It contains programmable synergic settings that make welding and setting adjustments simple and straightforward for anyone of any skill level. It comes with a digital display that clearly shows all of your options, which are numerous. A powerful internal computer learns your welding style and adjusts the welder to work best for you based on your specific welding techniques.
While all of this sounds fantastic, the EMP215IC is rather expensive, and it’s known to have a computer fault that stops it from working properly, if at all. Although the equipment is improved, it may not yet be free of defects, which can have a detrimental impact on your welding experience.
ESAB’s customer service also falls short of expectations, causing numerous consumers to get angry. This is too low for a high-end system, which is why it ranks last in our list. You may realize that the machine has no defects after purchasing it; if this is the case, the machine is well worth your money. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that there’s a potential it could end up being a costly failure.
Pros
- Adjustable synergic parameters that are pre-programmed
- Multiple functions
- Casing that lasts a long time
- A user-friendly digital display
Cons
- Inefficient customer service
- Is known to have common defects in the manufacturing process.
Best MIG Welder – Buyer’s Guide
1. Multifunction MIG/Flux-Cored Welders
Welders can be flux-cored, gas cylinder-required, or both. Flux core welding is exciting because it eliminates the need for a gas cylinder to be connected to your cylinder, but it leaves a slag layer that must be chipped away.
The majority of welders on the market can perform both MIG and flux core operations, however, a few can only perform one. I would get a welder that can do each of these things to ensure you have the most adaptability.
2. Input Voltage
MIG welders use a variety of input voltages, therefore they could not work with the outlet where you’re welding. The majority of welders operate at 110/115/120V or 220/225/230V, but some can operate at both voltages.
110 Volt Welders
Because they can be plugged into a conventional wall outlet, these lower input voltage welders are suitable for hobby welders. The sole disadvantage is that it limits output power, preventing you from welding thicker metals without increasing power and amperage.
220 Volts Welders
If you want to make some more powerful welds on thicker metals, you’ll need a 220-volt welder. A 220V power outlet must be installed for this to work. If you’re undertaking industrial welding or working on a remote site without access to a 110V outlet, these welders come in handy.
3. Output Power
You’ll need a different output power depending on what you’re trying to weld. Many manufacturers include a chart with the welder to help you choose the ideal settings for the best weld.
Below is a graph depicting an estimate of metal thickness and the required output power to achieve it.
| Gauge | mm | Required Amps |
| 8 | 4.2 | 165 |
| 10 | 3.4 | 135 |
| 12 | 2.7 | 105 |
| 14 | 1.9 | 75 |
| 16 | 1.5 | 60 |
| 18 | 1.2 | 48 |
| 20 | 0.9 | 36 |
| 22 | 0.8 | 30 |
| 24 | 0.6 | 24 |
4. Dimensions and portability
When choosing a welder, consider how easy the equipment will be to transport, as well as its size and weight. Weight may not be an issue if you want to keep it in your workshop. If you’ll be working in multiple locations, a welder with a lightweight handle is a good idea. If you need a large, powerful welder, you can keep it in a wheeled cart, but even two people will struggle to move the heaviest welders on concrete.
Only the tiniest high-quality MIG welders weigh less than 25 pounds. These have inverter technology, which considerably reduces the weight when compared to larger transformer kinds. Large industrial welders frequently use machines weighing more than 200 pounds.
5. Use a Spool to Fire
You’ll need a welder with a spool gun if you’re planning to MIG weld metal. This is a feature that many smaller welders lack, so keep an eye out for it. For example, the Hobart 140 is a superb welder that lacks this function. A spool gun with a rapid-release mechanism is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for one.
6. Duty Cycle
When deciding how long you want to weld, the duty cycle is an important factor to consider. If you need to use your MIG welder for a long period of time at once, you’ll need a welder with a high duty cycle. The duty cycle is calculated as a percentage of a 10-minute time during which the welder can work without overheating. For example, a 40% duty cycle would run for 4 minutes before requiring a 6-minute cooldown.
The lower the duty cycle, the higher the output power of your welder because it takes longer for the welder to cool down. Small welders without a cooling system have a low duty cycle. Fortunately, many large welders include powerful fans to speed up the cooling process.
If you’re worried about overheating, search for a welder with thermal overload protection, which shuts off the operation if the duty cycle is exceeded, protecting the welder from harm.
7. Brand & Warranty
You should choose a reputable and reliable brand for your welder. Welder manufacturers offer varying levels of support, but in terms of quality and durability, Hobart, Miller, Everlast, and Lincoln are the best.
Always examine your welder’s warranty and don’t buy a cheap welder with a poor warranty. Hobart and Longevity welders come with a fantastic 5-year warranty; they’re already high-quality, but the warranty gives you further peace of mind. If you’re considering purchasing a welder from a lesser-known manufacturer, check all of the reviews and testimonials first.
8. Price
Select the welder that best suits your needs and fits your budget. Don’t go into your purchase thinking that “the most expensive is the best,” because this is rarely the case. If you know what you want and have a budget in mind, you may pick the welder that will save you the most money while simultaneously giving you the best results. Our advice will help you choose the best welder for your needs.
Conclusion
There are a lot of good MIG welders on the market, but these ten are the best MIG welder 2022. Every machine will almost certainly provide you with a good time, but we hope that the genuine drawbacks for each machine shed light on their true performance for you.
Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder is our top pick. It’s a high-quality machine that can weld almost any material just as well as any other machine, yet it’s reasonably priced. Despite having a longer warranty than most welders, it consistently outlasts them.
The Forney Easy Weld 271, 140 MP Welder is a tiny machine, but it’s the best value welder if you’re on a budget yet still want to perform a nice job.
We appreciate you taking the time to go over our Best MIG welder reviews. We hope they assist you in determining the true value of each machine so you don’t have to waste time researching the different welders available on the internet.
With 8 years of experience a senior welding instructor and safety equipment researcher and writes articles, reviews and guidelines on helmets and other welding and safety gears at Welder Choice, and other written works have been published in various publications.