Anybody can go out and buy a MIG welder, but not anyone can buy a good MIG welder. This is because selecting a MIG welder can be a very confusing task. To help eliminate some of the confusion, I will discuss the important components of a MIG welder. I will also tell you what to consider when buying a welder and some of the best welders on the market today.
Below are the MIG welders that’re going to be reviewed
| Product Name | Customer Reviews | Editor Rating |
|---|---|---|
 |
4.2 /5 Stars | |
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4.1 / 5 Stars | |
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4.4 /5 Stars |
What factors should you consider when you’re purchasing a MIG welder?
Input and Output Power
The amount of power that you require will be dependent on the type of project that you will be working on. If you plan on working on smaller, DIY, home-based projects, then I recommend that you select a 115V welder with an output of 140A. But, if you are planning on working with larger, more complex projects, then a 220V welder with an output of 180A would be better suited for your project.
Power
Consider the amount of power that you would need on the thickness of the materials that you use. If you plan on welding material that is 1.0 mm thick, then it’s recommended that you select a MIG welder with a minimum of 30 amps. Go for less than 30 amps if you plan on working with thinner sheets. Or, go for more than 30 amps if you work with thicker sheets. Remember the thirty rule in this case.
Duty Cycle
If you plan on using your MIG welder for long periods during the course of a single day, then consider the duty cycle. A duty cycle at 20 percent would work non-stop for two consecutive minutes. Remember that by putting more power in the output, the duty cycle will be shorter.
Wire-Feed Speed
Every MIG welder works at a different wire-feed speed. Every different material requires a different wire-feed speed in order to ensure an accurate welding. This is why every MIG welder comes with various speeds choices to accommodate various materials.
Spool Gun
Spool guns are often used with aluminum materials. If you decide to go with a spool gun, then I recommend that you select one that has special features for better welding. One important feature on spool guns is the euro-connect. Now that you know five of the most important characteristics involved in choosing a MIG welder, I will now discuss some of the best MIG welders on the market.
These are the MIG Welding Reviews
Lotos MIG 140
If you are a beginner to welding, then I suggest that you select the Lotos MIG 140. This welder is the best on the market for beginners because it has easy to use buttons and has enough power for a wide range of home-based DIY projects.
Everlast Poweri-MIG 140E
But if you are not new to welding but looking to use it for the home, then I suggest that you go with the Lincoln Easy Mig 140 with an input power of 120V. But if you plan on welding outside the home, then consider the Everlast Poweri-MIG 140E. This welder’s unique feature is its ability to invert power so that you can use it in remote sites where there might be a shortage of power.
Lincoln Electric K2185-1
If you are watching your budget, then I suggest that you choose the Lincoln Electric K2185-1. This extremely affordable welder is a powerful 115V tool with an output of 88A.
