Do you want to repair metal items in your home? Or you’re a part-time welder or a professional welder? Then, buying a welding machine is very important to do your job quickly because a welding machine helps to join metals.
When you look at welding machines in today’s market, you will get plenty of options to buy. Thus, buying a welding machine is not a matter at all. But, if you want to choose the best welding machine, it should be a time-consuming task only.
Many welders need clarification about choosing one with a wide range of options. Therefore, I created this buying guide to help you people. At the same time, this is not only for a part-time or professional welder but also to help people who are newly entering the welding process.
Before buying a welding machine, it is better to know the basics of the welding process and different types of welding machines too. So, in this buying guide, I will give you the fundamentals of welding and various types of machines with features.
If you’re experienced in the welding process and machines, you can skip this and buy a machine with your own experience. But I hope this section helps you become an expert in the welding process. However, this guide is beneficial for a newbie.
Are you ready to know about various welding machines and which is best for you? Let’s start!!
What is a welder?
First of all, what is welding? There are many definitions for the welding process, but a commonly understandable one is joining 2 metal parts to make strengthened joints. To join the metals, the surface of the metal heats up. Meanwhile, there are so many methods to do the welding process.
The tool used to heat the metals and make highly strengthened joints is called a welder. The word “welder” is used not only to call a person who takes over the welding process but also for the tool used to do this process.
So, a welder is a tool used to accomplish all forms of the welding process. Some welding processes require only one tool, whereas others need more than one tool.
Benefits and Features of Welders
We all know that various types of welders are available in these days market. Thus, basic knowledge about each type of welder is important. It is because welders are used based on materials, purposes, and other variants. At the same time, the operation of various welders differs from one to another. Thus, the important benefits and features of each welding machine help buyers to make the right decision on choosing a welder among more options.
No worries, I’m here to help you with this. Here, I will share the benefits and features of different welders for you to know.
1. MIG welder
In MIG welding, two or more metal pieces are joined by creating an electric arc between the pieces.
Benefits and features of MIG welder:
- It is effortless to learn, so beginners can start with this welder.
- This tool is suitable for stainless steel, aluminum alloys, and other materials.
- With this welder, you can do all welding processes, including overhead.
- No slag removal is needed in this welding process because of using gas for shielding.
- Compared with other welders, it offers various speeds to weld metals.
- By using this welder, you can weld metals even in thin sizes.
2. Flux-cored welder
The flux-cored welder does the same process as the MIG welder, but the only difference is the flux-cored welder doesn’t use gas for shielding.
Benefits and features of the flux-cored welder:
- It’s mainly used for outdoor applications.
- Compare this with the MIG welder. It performs well in the outdoor welding process.
- There are no risks associated with this flux-cored welder.
- You can weld even dirty materials with this welder.
- It is a portable welder because it doesn’t need a gas bottle.
3. TIG welder
It’s a Tungsten Arc welding tool and uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create an arc between metals in shielding.
Benefits and features of TIG welder
- It’s an ideal choice for welding with a vast range of materials.
- You can use this tool for stainless steel, cast iron, brass, copper, steel, and more.
- It’s suitable for all positioning welding.
- You can use this welder on both thinner and thicker metals.
- You can control the input heat using a foot pedal in the welding process.
- It doesn’t require slag removal.
4. Stick welder
It’s also used for metal arc welding but requires a consumable and a flux-core electrode for shielding.
Benefits and features of stick welder
- This welder is best for stainless steel, cast iron, and welding steels.
- It’s best for outdoor applications.
- You can do welding in any position.
- It doesn’t require any additional tools.
- It’s a less expensive welder.
These are the benefits and features of each type of welder.
Wired vs. Portable Welders, Which is better?
We all know there are various types of welders, but you know all those types of welders come underwired or portable welders only. So, from wired and portable welders, which is better? It’s the question asked by many people looking to buy a welder.
If you’re one of such people having this same doubt, then keep continuing to find a solution.
When I tested these 2 kinds of welders, I decided a wired welder was better. And many professional welders also agreed. And portable welders are also called stick welders.
Why is a wired welder better? To answer this question clearly, I want to tell how wired and portable welder works for the welding process.
How do portable welders work?
The portable welders use rod-shaped electrodes for the welding process. So, if you touch the rod-shaped electrode on the metal pieces, then you can able to weld the metal pieces. In this process, a high temperature is created to melt the rod that, makes flux coating on the metal.
Advantages:
The most significant advantage of the portable welder is it is easy to switch from various electrodes. And you can use this even on dirty materials, which is perfect for outdoor applications.
Disadvantage:
The disadvantage of this stick welder is that it is challenging to learn how to use it.
How does a wire feed welder works?
Mechanically, the process of wire feed welder is complex, but it is easy to learn and operate. This welder works with a thin wire electrode and cable to the welding gun.
This welder can join all materials from thin to thick sheets. In addition, this is made to overcome all difficulties in stick welding.
Therefore, a wire feed welder is best for everyone, from newbies to experienced ones.
Main Kinds of Welders
As said before, different types of welders are available in these days’ market. But, those welders are only used by some welders. Instead of that, only a few types of welders are commonly used by almost one and all welders.
What are those main kinds of welders? Below are the most commonly used kinds of welders in a detailed manner for you to know the fundamentals of those welders so that you can choose the right one for your welding process.
MIG welders
The MIG welders are mainly used for applications related to repairing, home needs, ranch applications, general maintenance, and auto-body workshops. Apart from that, this welder features protection from thermal overload.
The output power of 140A is more than enough for home-based purposes and industrial applications; a MIG welder with 230A is required.
Flux-cored welders
When the appearance of welding is not essential, then using a flux-cored welder is more than enough. You can use this welder to substitute the MIG welder in all applications. But, the flux-cored welder is an ideal choice for outdoor metal shielding and repair. At the same time, you can use this for auto-body workshops too.
TIG welders
When it comes to TIG welders, the materials that are related to aluminum are good to weld. Apart from that, if you need high-quality welding frequently, then TIG welders are an excellent choice. However, the TIG welder is most commonly used for auto-body workshops, home repairs, frame fabrications, metal art, and more.
Stick welders
The stick welders are used in general maintenance, repair shops, plant fabrications, ranch applications, construction applications, various sites, and more. In addition to that, you can use this stick welder with either AC or DC power supply.
These are the main kinds of welders that are mainly used. This section shows you the types of welders and where to use those tools. Now, it is easy for you to choose a welder based on your needs, right!!
How to maintain a wire feed welder?
So, have you decided to buy a wire feed welder? If so, before paying for a wire feed welder, it is essential to know how to maintain it. The wire feed welders are available from low to expensive rates. On the other hand, there is no matter whether you’re buying either a cheap or costlier welder, maintaining a wire feed welder is crucial to increase durability and as well as to avoid performance issues.
Here, I will share a few tips for maintaining a wire feed welder.
- You have to use the welder as per the specifications.
- You must clean the welder and remove dust and debris each week.
- An excellent way to keep your welder away from dust is to cover it while operating.
- Sometimes welder requires grease to operate well, so you need to clean the grease.
- You can approach shops to service your welder every month.
- Some equipment requires replacing after a particular period, so do this.
- You have to replace the liner based on the usage for smooth wire feeding.
Following the methods mentioned above, you can maintain the wire feed welder and get more durability and better performance.
Popular wire feed welder brands
There are so many manufacturers to introduce various forms of wire feed welders. Like the best wire feed welder, you must find the best brand. It’s because purchasing a welder is a kind of investment. So, by choosing the best brand, you can save some money and get more durability.
At the same time, you also need to ensure the brand that you have chosen offers service in all areas so that you can repair the welder and make use guarantee.
I have looked at many brands and will share with you popular wire feed welder brands for you to prefer. A few popular brands for wire feed welders are as follows:
- Lincoln Electric Welders
- Miller Electric Welders
- Hobart Welders
- Thermal Arc Welders
- ESAB Welders
While buying a wire feed welder, prefer the above-listed brands to ensure the right welder is for your project.
Price Range of wire feed welder
There are 2 options to buy wire feed welders: retail shops and online stores, where you can look for wire feed welders from low price to costlier. So, you can purchase a welder based on your budget.
At the same time, spending more money is unnecessary to buy the best wire feed welder. Yes, there are the best wire feed welders at low prices too. You know, some top brands of wire feed welders provide special offers, bonuses, or free shipments.
When purchasing wire feed welders online, you will find more offers. In this way, you can save some more money. Thus, you have to worry about the cost of a wire feed welder. But buying a welder is an investment, so pick the right tool.
Top Recommendations on wire feed welder
I have looked at a wide range of options of wire feed welders available in these days’ market and have taken a list of top recommended wire feed welders. After reading the review part of all welders, I concluded some wire feed welders are best to buy.
Below are the top 5 recommendations on wire feed welders available from low to high prices for people from newbies to professionals. Let’s see!!
Forney 299 125FC Flux Core Welder, 120-Volt, 125-Amp
The Forney 299 125FC Flux Core Welder is designed only for gasless flux core welding. This welder accepts 2 to 10 pounds spools and operates on 120-volt input and 125-amp output. And some of the features of this welder are as follows:
Highlights:
- This welder welds 24-gauge up to ¼”.
- It consumes a larger area to store.
- It works without using a gas setup.
- It’s a plug and plays unit.
- Spools in this welder make it a versatile system.
Product specifications:
- Item model number: 299
- Size: 125FC
- Color: Green
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Amperage Capacity: 125 A
- Cord Length: 6 Feet
- Special Features: Tweco Consumables
- Batteries Required: No
- Warranty Description: 6 months
“If you want to buy a gasless flux core welding machine at a reasonable price, then Forney 299 125FC Flux Core Welder is the right choice for you.”
Goplus® MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine w/ Free Mask
It is another recommended flux core wire feed welding machine designed with a handle size of the handle is 12″. Below are some of the highlights of this flux core welding machine.
Highlights:
- You will get excellent experience in MIG welding using this tool.
- It results in professional finishing in welding.
- You can make use of this welder for thin sheets and car bodywork.
Product specifications:
- Material: steel frame and plastic handle
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Dimension: 13.4″ x 7.3″x 11.4″
- 4 adjustable heating
- Size of mask: 7.87 “X9.5”
- Voltage: 110V/60HZ
- A cord with welding gun: 65″
- Length of power cord: 72.5″
- Circuit breaker: 10A
- Mains fuse:13 A
- Max open voltage: 37V
- Max absorbed power:3.6 KVA;
- Max output current:15% at 105 AMP
What’s in the box?
Goplus® MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine is packed with the following items.
- 1X welder machine
- 1X welding gun
- 1X Welding Wire
- 1X weld mask
- 1X brush
“If you’re looking welder for MIG welding at a cheap rate, then Goplus® MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine is an ideal choice for you.”
Hobart 500559 Handler Wire Welder
The Hobart 500559 Handler Wire Welder is designed with high quality and portability, making it easy to transport. Some of the highlights of this welder are as follows:
Highlights:
- It is easy to set up and use.
- It doesn’t require any additional kit for welding.
- It’s available in ready to use manner
- You can use this welder for almost all applications.
- It provides 5-position tapped voltage control settings.
What’s in the box?
The package of Hobart 500559 Handler Wire Welder includes the following items.
- Handler 140 with built-in gas valve
- 10 ft. MIG gun with liner
- Dual gauge regulator and gas hose
- 10-ft work cable and clamp
- 10-ft power cord
- Extra .030 contact tips
- Sample spool of .030 flux-cored wire
- 8-inch spool adapter
- Owner’s manual
- Setup guide
“If you’re wondering for high quality and portable welder for your DIY project, then Hobart 500559 Handler Wire Welder is an ideal option for you.”
Super Deal Black Commercial MIG 130 AC Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder
Do you want to buy a welder for mild welding steel? Then, why you didn’t buy Super Deal Black Commercial MIG 130 AC Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder because this is mainly designed for mild steel welding.
Highlights:
- You can use this welder with various speed controls
- It offers 4 adjustable heaters.
- It requires a maximum 37-Voltage.
- It includes a torch with full-on and off safety control.
Product specifications:
- Voltage: 110 V / 60 Hz Single Phase
- Welding Current: 50-120 AMP
- Duty Cycle: 10% at 105AMP / 35% at 60 AMP
- Max open voltage: 37V
- Weld able wires: 0.023” to 0.035” steel and stainless steel, 0.030” flux-cored
What’s in the box?
The Super Deal Black Commercial MIG 130 AC Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder comes to your hand with the following items.
- MIG-130 Main Unit
- Welding Spool Wire
- Welding Face Mask
- Chipping Hammer/ Wire Brush
- 2.5M Torch, Xtra 2 Tips
- Ground Cord
“Super Deal Black Commercial MIG 130 AC Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder is the best choice if you’re looking for cheap rated welder for welding mild or stainless steel.”
Campbell Hausfeld MIG Flux Core Wire Feed Welder
The Campbell Hausfeld Flux Core Wire Feed Welder comes under power welders and is designed for outdoor applications. Keep continuing your reading to find some highlights of this welder.
Highlights:
- It provides more durability, so it lasts for years.
- This welder offers portability, so easy to transport.
- Its infinite wire speed control allows you to adjust the smooth welding process.
- To avoid overheating, it includes thermal overload protection.
- It automatically shuts off melting to prevent overheating.
- It is made with a torch for ease of the process.
- It comes to your hand with 5 years limited warranty.
Product specification:
- Product Dimensions: 19.5 x 15.1 x 11 inches
- Item model number: WF2150
- Color: Blue
- Power Source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 115 volts
- Installation Method: arc-welding
- Batteries Required: No
“If you want a welder for outdoor applications with high quality, then Campbell Hausfeld Flux Core Wire Feed Welder is an excellent choice for you.”
Decision Time
After reading this buying guide, now, you should know the fundamentals of various welders and the benefits and features of each. From this guide, you also know that wire feed welders are the best to buy, right!!
Among various options with wire feed welders, choosing the best one depends on your budget, purposes, the environment where you use it, and more. But, knowing the purpose of different welders, benefits and features ease the buying process.
So, before fixing with any one of the welders, refer to this guide to ensure the best buy!!
