Best MIG Welders for the Money – Top Picks & Reviews

Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welders are otherwise known as gas metal arc welders (GMAW). They are popular for many good reasons. Ask random professionals what method they prefer, and chances are most will answer MIG or TIG. 

Why do many welders prefer MIG over most tools? For starters, MIG gets the job done most efficiently. It doesn’t matter whether at home or in an industrial setting. Moreover, they are so versatile that there’s a piece of equipment for every skill level. It’s the same way there’s a plasma cutter that is better, depending on your individual needs. 

The biggest advantage with these is the speed with which it gets the job done. As far as productivity goes, most stick welding and TIG units can’t hold a candle against most low-end options. It’s for this very reason that they are recommended in industrial settings. If steel industries can produce metalwork faster, profits naturally get a big boost. 

They are also very accessible to novice welders. You can order one online or buy it from a nearby supply store. It’s easy to use because the operations are pretty straightforward. It only takes a moment to hook it up. If you haven’t operated a MIG before, you’ll find that it doesn’t take much to learn how to use it properly.

While they are great, no machine is created equal. If you want to make the most of this metal-fusing method, you have to buy one that fits your needs and budget. We understand how difficult it can be to do that, considering the number of selections available out there. This is even more, the case if your budget is limited.

To help you out, here are our recommendations that will give you a bang for your buck. We understand that what’s ideal for one person may not be for another. We tried our best to be diverse in our picks. We wrote a comprehensive review for each to help you pick the best MIG welder for the money that fits your needs.

Ready? Dive right in!

1. Millermatic 141 (907612)

Our first pick on the list of the best MIG welders, the Millermatic 141 is a tool that is as powerful as it is reliable. It has an amazing auto-set feature that lets you automatically adjust the tool’s parameters with minimal effort. Thanks to its intuitive interface and all-aluminum drive system, it’s just as impressive in manual mode. 

This machine is a dream to set up.  It has a quick-select drive roll and an auto-set mode to set it up on the fly. This same feature also protects your unit from short circuit hazards.

As already mentioned, the Millermatic 141 packs quite a punch. With a maximum output of 140 amps, this unit can work on materials up to 3/16” in thickness.

Despite this unit’s extensive functionality, it comes with a minimalist design that is easy on the eyes.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps
Input	110/115/120V
Weight	51 pounds
Dimensions	20.5 x 11.25 x 12.5

2. Hobart Ironman 230 (500536)

The Hobart 500536 Ironman is a machine that deserves its name. This unit packs quite a wallop with an input of 230 volts in terms of power. Moreover, its 60% duty cycle is nothing to sneeze at. The Ironman is more than capable of handling steel and aluminum. It also has no issues with stainless steel. It can fuse steel with a thickness of up to ½”. Thanks to its twelve voltage settings, it can be relied on for multiple power outputs. It also comes with wire-speed adjustment, which allows you to make speed adjustments with minimal effort. 

You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that this unit can be purchased for $2,500. While that’s not exactly cheap, this machine’s amazing power and wide range of features are sufficient.

Specs

Duty Cycle	60% at 175 Amps.
Input Power	230V
Weight	224 pounds
Dimensions	36 x 19 x 32

3. LONGEVITY Migweld 140

For its low price of $400, it’s amazing how the LONGEVITY Migweld 140 has established itself. It is one of the best all-around machines on the market. It has everything a novice will need to start working like a pro in no time.

This machine can run ten different voltage settings, not to mention that it can fuse up to ¼” of steel. It comes with Flux core functionality, giving you all the benefits that a full-scale arc welder can provide. This unit weighs 54 pounds, making it well-suited for light use. To top it off, it comes with thermal overload protection. This ensures you don’t need to worry about the unit overheating even if you’ve been using it for long stretches. 

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps.
Input	110 Volts
Weight	54 pounds
Dimensions	24 x 13 x 17

4. Hobart Handler 190 (500554)

If you want a machine that’s powerful & portable, the Hobart Handler 190 (500554) is a tool that delivers on all fronts. It’s also easy to use. It doesn’t hurt that it has a compact, sleek design that makes professionals and hobbyists alike swoon. 

The Hobart Handler 190 is capable of handling all types of jobs. Whether working on metal sculptures or building farm equipment, this tool can help you do the job most efficiently. You can also fix roof sheets with it.

How powerful is the Hobart Handler 190? For starters, it can fuse 24-gauge up to 5/16”. It normally runs at 230 volts, but you can switch to 115 volts through a simple plug switch. Hooking up this unit is easy, with extensive but intuitive controls that allow you to adjust its settings and parameters. The unit’s operation controls are pretty straightforward. Just follow the instructions on the manual, and you’ll weld like an expert in a few hours.

Do you prefer to use a spool gun? This unit is built for it. Turn the selector switch on for spool gun mode, and you’re off to the races. Better yet, this helps you do away with any feeding issues that usually occur when you’re working with aluminum wire. 

Bottom line? The Hobart Handler 190 has a lot going for it. If you want an all-around machine you can use for a wide range of jobs, this unit won’t let you down.

Specs

Duty Cycle	30% at 130 Amps.
Input	220/230/240V
Weight	68 pounds
Dimensions	19.5 x 10.625 x 12.4

5. Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy

The Lincoln Electric Handy is great for those who are just getting started. For one, it’s not expensive. It makes it the perfect choice for novice craftsmen who don’t want to make a huge financial commitment. The unit’s interface is a cinch. As soon as you familiarize yourself with the intuitive controls, you’re well on your way.

Another reason why this is perfect for beginners is its extensive safety features. It’s got a fan-cooled design that prevents the likelihood of overheating, which in turn increases its longevity. It also has a cold contactor safety feature, meaning that the unit stays cold even if it’s not being used. Now that’s safe for you!

That’s not to say that the Lincoln Electric Handy is not great for more experienced individuals. This unit packs quite a punch (up to 88 amps). It allows you to make quick and precise work. It’s not powerful enough to perform heavy-duty jobs. Other than that, this unit is a good companion for people who are always out and about.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 70 Amps.
Input Power	115V
Weight	46 pounds
Dimensions	12.8 x 8.8 x 18

6. Forney 309 140A

The Forney 309 140 is a machine that offers a lot for smaller jobs. It’s packed to brimming with features that set it apart from the new wave of products currently being released. This unit is perfect for households with a power outlet of 115 volts. With a max output of 140 Amps, this piece of equipment is no slacker. Thanks to the built-in gas hose and regulator, it’s easy to take around with you. 

The Forney 309 140 comes with Flux-core functionality, adding to its versatility. You can use it on various metals, including:

• cast iron
• stainless steel
• aluminum
• and many others.

This unit weighs only 62 pounds and sports an ergonomic handle to top it off. It makes it easy to take everywhere with you.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 115 Amps/35% at 90 Amps
Input	115V
Weight	56 pounds
Dimensions	19 x 9.5 x 16.5

7. Weldpro 155 AMP Inverter MIG/Stick

If you want a good piece of equipment that’s affordable as it is versatile, you can’t go wrong with the Weldpro 155 Amp option. Even at its low price, it’s fully capable of plugging into two voltage settings (110 and 220). It’s compact and portable to boot!

How versatile is this machine? It allows you to switch between 2T and 4T (between manual and automatic wire feeding) with ease. If you ever struggled to feed with long beads and awkward corners, this automatic wire feeding makes the process a lot easier. 

Granted that the leads could be longer, you can compensate for it by buying additional accessories if required.

If your budget is limited, buying this machine is a safe investment that will get you on the right track. 

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 115 Amps/35% at 90 Amps
Input	115V
Weight	56 pounds

8. Hobart Handler 210 (500553)

The Hobart Handler 210 has a lot to offer regarding amperage and affordability. It’s also great in terms of functionality. Sure it’s not exactly cheap, but this machine brings so much to the table that it more than makes up for it. 

If you’re impressed by how extensive this machine’s amperage settings are, wait till you learn how many wire speeds it offers. It’s from 40 to 680 IPM! The infinite wire speed control makes this one a joy to work with. With 7 voltage settings and variable power outputs, it helps you perform a wide range of jobs with great efficiency. There are no (or minimal) spatters involved, so there is no need to clean up after every job. 

Simply put, the Hobart Handler 210 offers much in the way of versatility and power. It sets the standard for versatility and controls within this price range.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps
Input Power	115/230V
Weight	79 pounds
Dimensions	19.5 x 10.6 x 12.4

9. Hobart Handler 140 (500559)

The Hobart Handler 140 is another homerun for the Hobart line. This MIG/Flux-core beast boasts an excellent user interface and the highest manufacturing standards as its predecessors.

With a duty cycle of 20% at 90 amperes, the Handler 140 is more than capable of handling any household or workshop project. This unit can work on thin stainless steel and aluminum. For steel, it feels like a hot knife through butter. If you want to work on thicker materials, the Handler 140 has a reliable flux-core option that can help you pull it off. And with five voltage settings, it allows you to switch it up as you go along. It results in smoother arcs even when working on different thicknesses.

It is lighter than most professional machines, allowing easy transport and handling. If you’re a craftsman who frequently works on different projects, you can do no wrong by taking this with you. 

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps
Input Power	115V
Weight	57 pounds
Dimensions	19.5 x 10.6 x 12.4

10. Millermatic 141 (907612)

The Millermatic 141 is the Miller line’s quintessential 120V MIG welder. This machine truly delivers to provide beginners with a fantastic user experience. The auto-set control allows you to get comfortable with the process in no time. Thanks to the unit’s serviceable manual settings, long-time pros can still stick to how they do things. It has wire feed settings and infinite voltage control you will love. It’s also got a quick-select drive roll—the whole works. What more could you ask for?

This unit is no slacker in the power department. It boasts an amperage range of 30A to 140A and a duty cycle of 20% at 90 amperes. It also comes with thermal overload protection to protect your unit from overheating incidents.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps
Input Power	120V
Weight	51 pounds
Dimensions	22 x 11 x 12

11. Lincoln Pro MIG 140 K2480-1 Review

When it comes to power and versatility, not many machines can keep up with the Lincoln Pro MIG 140. It is why our review of this piece of equipment is so positive. Whether you’re working at home or in a shop or a factory, it has everything you need and more.

Case in point: the excellent 2-knob control system allows you to switch between different modes with the least amount of effort. And no matter the type of material you’re working on, the unit’s gas-shielded mode should help you get the job done. You can easily work on aluminum or stainless steel. If you need to work on thicker metals, switching to the flux core mode will help you penetrate deeper to get it done. How deep? Well, this unit can work on 4.8 mm of sheet metal in a single pass. 

It is packed to brimming with features that ensure you’re consistently working at a high level. These features include the easy-turn tension indicator and a fully adjustable drive system. You also get brass to brass gun connections for better conductivity and more.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 Amps
Input Power	120 volts
Weight	50 pounds
Dimensions	13.7 x 10.15 x 17.9

12. Lincoln Pro MIG 180 K2481-1

If you value consistency in your work, regardless of the project or task you’re working on. You’d be wise to consider buying the Lincoln MIG 180. 

It is perfect for both novices and professionals courtesy of its wide variety of useful features. It has a simple control knob that lets you change output levels with minimal effort. Moreover, its 120 settings allow you to work efficiently on aluminum and light steel. It’s also equally effective for heavy-duty jobs since its 208/230-volt settings allow deeper penetration of thicker metals.

While it packs some serious power, it has adjustable settings that ensure you won’t melt thinner materials like aluminum.

Thanks to its portable and lightweight build, this dual-voltage machine is also easy to take with you anywhere. Whether you’re welding in a factory or on the farm, the Lincoln Pro MIG 180 is a companion you can always count on.

Specs

Processes	MIG, Flux-Cored
Input Power	208/230 V
Weight	66 pounds
Dimensions	14 x 10.15 x 18.6

13. Miller Millermatic 211 (907614)

If you want a dual voltage beast with many features that help you produce precise work, the Millermatic 211 hits the sweet spot. It is easy to set up because of its Advanced Autoset feature. It allows you to adjust your unit’s parameters and arc settings easily.

The Millermatic 211 also comes with a quick-select drive roll that enables you to change spools with the flick of a finger. It’s not only dual-voltage. It also has a ring on the back that you can twist to switch from one mode to another with minimal effort. 

Another great thing about the Millermatic 211 is its lightweight design. If you’re always working in different locations, you won’t have any difficulties lugging this machine around with you.

Specs

Duty cycle	40% at 150 amps
Input Power	230V
Weight	38 pounds
Dimensions	20.5 x 11.25 x 12.5

14. Eastwood 175 Amp

Eastwood MIG 175 might be an oldie but goodie, but it’s still one of the best options on the market. 

This unit runs at 220V and has a rated amp of 175A. Thanks to the unit’s adjustable wire feed speed control, wire feeding is effortless. But what sets this one apart is its ability to handle a wide range of metals, including aluminum and steel.

The Eastwood 175 is a great choice for beginners because of the many accessories. It includes a spool gun and aluminum wires. You’ll also get a gas regulator and hose & tips.

It weighs only 62 pounds. If you’re a pro who’s always out and about, you won’t have any issues taking this unit along with you.

One major drawback of this product is its made of flimsy material. You might end up breaking the access panel if you’re not careful.

Despite that one flaw, it is a great machine to have if you want a versatile offering that’s easy on the wallet.

Specs

Duty cycle	30% at 130 amps
Input Power	220V
Weight	62 pounds
Dimensions	10.75 X 17 X 15.75

Pros:	Cons:
Offers a wide range of accessories for the full MIG experience	Made of thin material
Lightweight and ergonomic build
Can handle many metals, including aluminum and stainless steel
Big bang for your buck
Serviceable for both professionals and beginners

15. Hobart Handler 130 (500568)

The Hobart Handler 130 is a robust option that is versatile and user-friendly. It’s not as powerful as its 210 and 140 counterparts. It’s got a wide range of useful features that more than compensate for that one flaw. With that said, it’s capable of penetrating 1/4 “ steel and handling many kinds of metals. You won’t have any issues with stainless steel and iron. 

If you want your work to be more productive, the Handler 130’s Flux-cored functionality will come in handy. Also worth mentioning is its patented EX-Mode. A knob can easily switch settings based on the thickness of the material being worked on. 

Do you struggle with controlling gas input when you work? The Hobart Handler 130 solves that problem for you with its built-in gas valve. It gives you a better handle on gas mixes as you do the work. No more spatters!

Weighing 51 pounds, this machine can be carried around with no sweat. 

Specs

Duty cycle	20% at 85 amps
Input Power	115V
Weight	51 pounds
Product Dimensions	13 x 10 x 17 inches

16. Lincoln Electric Easy 140

If you want to produce high-quality work on many projects, the Lincoln Electric Easy 140 won’t let you down. It is equipped with a straightforward 2-knob control system. This multiple process unit lets you manage your gas shields while working on various materials. And thanks to its robust flux core functionality, it can penetrate deep when fusing thicker materials.

It has a fully adjustable drive system coupled with its numeric-drive tension indicator. The Lincoln Electric Easy lets you change the settings with the least effort. It prevents wire tangling and cable breakage. 

Whether you’re an old hat at this by now or still learning the ropes, you’ll get the hang of this machine in no time. It is courtesy of its intuitive controls and streamlined design. It comes with a calibration chart as a guide as you hook up the machine and use it for the first time.

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 amps
Input Power	120V
Weight	50 pounds
Dimensions	13.7 in x 10.15 in x 17.9 in

17. Eastwood MIG 135A

Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the Eastwood MIG 135 is a machine that hits many sweet spots. It can be counted on to produce precise welds, even delicate tasks. Sporting a lightweight and compact design, this unit can be carried around with little effort. 

It comes with many accessories that will come in handy on any project and in any setting. Wire feeding requires little effort thanks to the unit’s switchable drive roller and precision-drive motor. 

If you want an affordable option that ticks all the right boxes, you can count on this machine to truly deliver. 

Specs

Duty Cycle	20% at 90 amps
Input Power	120V
Weight	57 pounds
Dimensions	9.5 X 16.1 X 14.5

18. Everlast Power i-MIG 200

The Everlast Power MIG 200 boasts the Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT) inverter technology. It produces a higher output even with low input power. Calling this one a MIG welder is limiting because it offers stick and flux-cored functionality. 

It offers many advantages, including a high duty cycle. It comes with a multi-processing and dual voltage option. On top of that, it has high power output. With all these features at your disposal, you can produce high-quality work with stunning consistency.

Switching from the spool gun to stick has never been easy, courtesy of this machine’s Eurostyle Quick Coupler. This nifty feature lets you use generic spool guns instead of expensive branded ones, allowing you to cut costs dramatically.

This unit’s best feature is the highly convenient induction control, allowing you to switch between MIG and Stick with little effort. Newbies will find this handy, making them produce work like a pro even if they haven’t used a welding machine before.

Specs

Duty Cycle	35% at 125 amps
Input Power	110/220V
Weight	53 pounds
Dimensions	24 x 9 x 14

19. Hobart Handler 125 (500573)

The Hobart Handler 125 500773 is the latest offering in the company’s Hobart 125 series. And this one’s a doozy, folks.

Performance-wise, this is as good as a 125 MIG machine gets. With an output range of 25-130 Amps, this machine can weld up to ⅛ inches of steel. It’s easy to work on metals with variable thicknesses courtesy of the machine’s four output voltage settings. Switching from flux-cored wire to MIG is effortless. The durable feed head and the quick-release drive roll lever allow you to thread new wire with no sweat. 

Despite the abundant features, the Hobart Handler 500573 is easy to use. You’ll find it easy to produce clean and non-porous weds even if this is your first time handling a piece of equipment like this.

Specs

Duty Cycle	25% at 80 amps
Input Power	110/115/120V
Weight	57.5 pounds
Dimensions	19.4 × 10 × 13.5

Hungry for more reading? Check out our guide on the best mini metal lathes out there.

It’s easier to purchase a MIG welder than to learn how to use it. But we’ll go over a few steps for the beginners to get the ball rolling.

FAQ