10 Ridiculously Handy Cheap MIG Welders To Weld Like Pro – Best Budget Mig Welder

No matter whether it’s DIY projects or professional touches, MIG welding is just unbeatable. Yes, you heard that right. MIG is literally a versatile welding method that has several practical applications.

What is the best part of mig welder? Plain and simple!

Just look at the application of MIG welding. It can be used on all thicknesses of aluminum, on steels, on stainless steel mig welding, and even on nickel, etc. Meanwhile, it is mostly used in manufacturing as well as in commercial fabrication settings.

And what’s the worse part? A bit pricey!!!!!

But if you consider productivity and speed, definitely it worth buying.  MIG welding was first introduced during World War II as a portable, fast process to create durable joints. Thus, today, it is widely used in many factory and shop applications and welding enthusiasts.

Stay along with this best budget MIG welder review article to get all teeny tiny detail about best MIG welder. Let’s get this show on the road. In a hurry? Feel free to check our quick navigation:

1. Best for beginners – Hobart handler 190
2. Good combo – LOTOS 175 MIG welder
3. Best 120v MIG welder – Forney start-up kit
4. Best for home use – Hobart handler 140
5. For professional welder – Lincoln electric K2185-1 handy
6. Best for household – Goplus MIG 130 welder
7. Best portable Mig welder – Sungold power 110/220V dual voltage
8. User-friendly – Hitbox 200 AMP
9. Compact and powerful – Super deal pro commercial Mig 130
10. Good Cheap Mig Welder – Forney easy weld 261

What Is The Best MIG welder?

Before anything else, you should have a clear idea of MIG welder. MIG refers to metal inert gas. In fact, the technical name of MIG is gas metal arc welding, and the slang name is wire welding. (Read about mig welding gas)

MIG welding is actually an arc welding method in which a continuous wire electrode is fed by a welding gun, joining the two materials together.

Have you wondered why it’s so popular or what is MIG welding used for? The MIG process enables the artist, home-hobbyist, farmer/rancher, DIY or motorsports enthusiast welder suit most types of maintenance/repair welds and fabrication on material from 24-gauge to 1/2-inch thick welding.

But you know what else? When it comes to flexibility, most people turn to MIG welding just because they’ve thought that it’s a simple process to learn.

Honestly speaking, it’s not quite that simple. But it is true that most people become comfortable with MIG welders just by following some easy basic advice.

After 84 Hours of Research – Best MIG Welders Comparison Table

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Hobart 500554 Handler 190 MIG Welder 230V	Output: 30%@130A Warranty: 2 years Voltage: 220/230/240V Input phase: 1 Phase	Check Price on AmazonCheck on Tractor Supply
	LOTOS MIG175 175AMP Mig Welder	Input: 22A@220V Efficiency: 80% Warranty: 1 Year Power factor: 0.73	Check Price on AmazonCheck on Tractor Supply
	Forney Easy Weld 261	Input: 120-Volt Output: 140 AMP Portable: 8.61 KG Duty cycle: 30% @ 90A	Check Price on AmazonCheck on Home Depot
	SUPER DEAL PRO Commercial MIG 130	Weights: 38 lbs Voltage: 110 V / 60 Hz Max open voltage: 37V Duty cycle: 10% at 105 AMP	Check Price on Amazon
	Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder	Max rating: 88 Duty cycle: 70A / 17V / 20% Output: 70A/17V/20% Warranty: 3 Years	Check Price on AmazonCheck on Home Depot
	Goplus MIG 130 Welder	Duty cycle: 35% Frequency: 60 HZ Output: 30-120A Voltage: 110V-120V	Check Price on Amazon

How Much Does a Good MIG Welder Cost?

When you’re on the market looking for a good quality MIG welder, you may get confused about the price. Well, the price range varies from model to model. The beginner MIG welders come up at a 250-500$ price range. You can do all things with the beginner series welders.

Hi, Looking for a pro-level welding machine?

Why don’t you go for a bigger one! A professional MIG welder will cost between 500$ to 700$.

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of MIG Welding

Before buying the machine, let’s see the real deal of MIG welder and welding so that you can take the decision.

Advantages of MIG Welding

• Much faster.
• High-quality welds.
• Only produce minor weld spatter.
• MIG welding is more versatile, can be used with a wide variety of alloys and metals.
• The MIG process can be operated in various ways, including fully and semi-automatic.
• Even a starter can operate the machine.

Disadvantages of MIG Welding

• A bit pricey.
• Not so great for outdoor welding.
• Took more time for metal preparation.
• Only allow a limited position.

10 Best Budget MIG Welder Review That Probably You Wouldn’t Want To Miss-Cheap MIG Welder

Love to weld? Here is some good MIG welder review that you can grab your hands on at a modest price. Let’s see the comparison review.

Best MIG Welder Under $1000

Do you freeze in the tracks, Higher Price, Better Product? Can’t blame you!

In most cases, it’s true. If you are one of them to whom budget won’t be a great problem, then this part is for you. Personally, I also think that a great product is worth some extra bucks. Let’s get STARTED…

1. Best for Beginner – Hobart Handler 190

If you are looking for a low-cost option to work with aluminum, 190 Hobart MIG welders could be a really good choice. Why am I saying this?

This welder has an amazing feature of the SpoolRunner 100 spool gun, which helps to eliminate the feeding problem of aluminum wire. Yes, it’s true!

My impression

Built with quality in mind, the Hobart welders 190 is operating off 230 volts with industrial PERFORMANCE. Each item is manufactured and designed in Troy, OH USA.

What’s included in the Box? The best thing about this big machine is it’s easy to set and can adjust for different materials. The Hobart Handler 190 is backed by the company’s 5/3/1 Industrial Warranty.

Hobart 190 vs. 210, which one is right for you? The Hobart 210 machine is the more versatile welding tool that can work fine on both voltages.

Wow Feature of Hobart

7 voltage selections, infinite wire control, and enhanced magnetics offer fine control of the output parameters with less spatter. The handler 190 control by infinite wire speed.

The simple design handler 190 is easy to use beginner to advance welder. Generator-powered welder you can use this welder anywhere with your generator. (Read more about welder generators).

What I like most

• Improved arc performance.
• Dual groove.
• 7 voltage selections.
• 30% duty cycle.

What could be better?

The spool is not satisfactory.

2. Best 220 V MIG Welder – LOTOS MIG175 175AMP

If you are an amateur, it’s not the machine for you. Don’t even DARE! It is capable enough to weld aluminum with the spool gun. This lotos welder is counted as one of the best professional MIG welders on the market right now.

Why am I saying this? Its transformer technology was established to be trustworthy and durable.

My impression

Gosh, such as welding capacity!

• Aluminum: 3/8″ or Thinner
• Mild/Stainless Steel: 1/4″

It’s a multi-use tool, suitable for mild welding steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other metal material. The durable top-quality aluminum wire offers a better welding experience.

What about the wire range? It’s 0.6-0.8mm wire range for solid steel and 0.8-0.9mm for flux-cored.  It handles incorporates resettable overload security to assure a long operating life.

Wow Feature of LOTOS MIG175

Buy with confidence — lotos Offer 100% Satisfaction and 1 Year Limited Warranty for their products.

What I like most?

• Spool Gun Included.
• Aluminum Wire Feeder.
• Most versatile welders.
• Setup quickly.

What could be better?

• Heaviest power supply.
• Entry-level units.

3. Best 120v MIG Welder – Forney 309 140-Amp

Fed up with hunting craigslist ads that actually well for nothing? Then this is the perfect welder for you! Believe it or not, it encourages doing it yourself. Forney has been dominating this industry for over eight decades.

Who should buy this? The Forney 309 140-Amp Welder is full of features that make this welder apart from the rest of the others.

My impression

It’s true, Forney isn’t as giant as Lincoln, but this welder ensures as top-grade welds. Undoubtedly it is a solid piece of kit.

At only 62lbs, it’s not too bulky and can be carried easily by using the handle on top. Still, it’s going to be quite bulky for some as its transformer design might be convenient to place on a wheeled cart.

Still not CONVINCED? The Forney welder has a 120V input power, which means it’s perfectly designed for household use not only that it is capable of flux-cored welding and MIG.

What about output? The output is from 30A-140A with a decent duty cycle of 35%, which is a fair amount and even better than some 140 welders

Wow feature of Forney

There are 4 separate voltage settings for its transformer which maximize in 1/16 inch increments from up to 1/4 inch in the highest setting.

What I like most

• Smooth/ stable arc.
• Easy access.
• Torch wrap included.
• Euro type connector.

What could be better?

• Not great for heavy duty projects.
• Poor quality flux core.

Best Cheap MIG Welder Under $500

Do you FEEL you’re banging your head against a wall just to find the best MIG welder under 400 or 500?

Quite LEGIT! It’s won’t to so easy to find a reliable one in this range. Let me help you to find the right one for you, even on a tight budget. Have a look.

1. Best for Home Use – Hobart Handler 140 Cheap MIG Welder

Are you looking for, MIG welder?

A cool choice for the smartest welder! Yes, you heard that right. Just a few minutes for arrangement and you are ready to weld, the quickest tool even for the first-time welder. A weld set-up guide is included on the inside of the cover to set your welder properly.

My impression

Great for DIY welding projects!

No matter what type of welding it is, it could be a cool gadget for autobody panels, mower decks, exhaust systems, tool carts, trailer frames & hitches, gun/bow racks, lawn and garden equipment.

I just love it! Now let’s talk about its technical part. It welds 24 gauges, operates off 115 volts, runs by 25 to 140 output amperage when it comes to duty cycle, its satisfactory – 20% at 90 amps. If you compare Hobart 140 vs Lincoln 140, this Hobart 140 is damn good in all consideration.

Wow feature of Hobart 140 welder

Built with a proven cast aluminum drive system along with a heavy-duty work clamp – this handler 140 amp is absolutely a wire welding package with superior performance.

What I like most?

• Manufacturers limited warranty.
• Quick set up.
• No extra kit required.
• Easy to transport.

What could be better?

• Poor system for Speed adjustment.
• Only recommended for the small job.

2. Best Budget Welder – Best Professional MIG Welder – Lincoln Electric K2185

Dare to try your hand at challenging wire welding?

Lincoln Electric has got the welder for you. Yes, this portable compact and lightweight wire feed is extremely user-friendly. It’s great for hobby projects/ home repair on light gauge around most households.

My impression

Before anything else, allow me to discuss the technical part. Its wire feed speed adjustment helps you weld mild steel, from 24 to 1/8″ thick. It needs to be Plugged into 20-amp outlet, household 115V.

But wait that’s not all! It comes with a spool of self-shielded, contact tips, flux-cored wire, and chipping hammer, you can use your MIG® to weld with flux-cored wire, gasless too. As a result, it’s easy to get started as practically everything you need to weld is in the box. (Read more about Lincoln Handy MIG Review).

Wow feature of Lincoln electric

Cold contactor safety helps to keep welding wire“cold” until the gun trigger is manually pressed. We can run with this machine with flux core wire.

What I like most?

• Long life expectancy.
• Portable.
• Lightweight construction.
• Included wire feed welder.

What could be better?

• Flux core is quite annoying, so the auto-darkening mask is a must.
• Takes hell amount of time on set up.

3. Best Cheap Welder – Goplus MIG 130 Welder

It looks like a solid mig from the specs – loads of duty cycle. This will surely surprise you what you can do with Goplus 130 Welder unless you’re directly trying to weld automotive applications.

My impression

If you notice the stats and specs for the MIG, you’ll discover that this is a multifunctional, well-rounded machine that can tackle a wide range of projects. 

No doubt about it. The 110V/60HZ voltage with an impressive cord with the length up to 72.5 inches allows you to weld sheet metal, tubing, and similar materials effortlessly. But make sure the metals are clean.

Mini size yet practical, it’s gonna ensure a professional finish. This stuff is ideal for welding thin steel and iron, good enough for home DIY and any repairing work. 

But remember this: Before using this welder, make sure you take enough to prep the surface of the materials. From my experience I notice, there isn’t decent power available to push anything out of the way.

Wow feature of goplus mig 130 welder flux core wire automatic feed welding machine

The four levels of flow settings is a big plus. However, this machine includes an adjustable rotary knob. The ten levels of wire feeding speeds allow you to choose whatever you want.

What I like most?

• Multifunctional Control Panel.
• Adjustable heating system.
• Long-last life-span.

What could be better?

• The mask is a joke.

4. Best For 110/220V Dual Voltage – Sungold Power 200 AMP

A portable MIG machine is almost difficult to trace. Don’t even try to deny it.

Most tools in this category hanker after weigh upwards of 80 Ibs. That’s not the case with the SUNGOLDPOWER 200Amp MIG. Coming in at just 33 pounds, this welder is definitely one of the portable go-to welders that you can use for various work.

How? The Dual Voltage 110V/220V welder allows you to try MIG/MAG/ MMA/ ARC multifunction welding.

My impression

First and foremost, it comes with everything you need! Want to see what’s you gonna get? Check this out:

• MIG/ARC welding.
• MIG Torch.
• Flux-cored wire.
• 47’’ cable.
• Electrode holder.
• Mask and Brush / Drive roll.
• Gas nozzles.

The transformer technology has been proven to be reliable and durable. Welding stainless and aluminum is such a pleasant experience for me. 

And you know what? This beast can provide industrial type power on both 110 and 220v. The top-notch transformer and full-bridge circuit board ensure more stable working and longer working life. 

So what’s not to like? If you have more outdoor projects like rusty metal, repairs, farm or road equipment, and maintenance, then this would be your reliable weapon.

Wow feature of SUNGOLDPOWER 200Amp MIG

Adjustable wire feed speed allows you to control it to fit your application and different thicknesses.

What I like most?

• Spool gun connection.
• Simple to operate.
• Little spatter.

What could be better?

• No setting charts.

5. Best For Multifunction MIG Welder – Hitbox 200 AMP

The size is good; so far, it welded flawlessly. For the price and functionality of this machine, I have been awed by the thickness of steel it can produce. This welder can be used with an extra power generator. That means convenience for beginners.

My Impression

I absolutely love the fact how Capable this machine is for the 5kg-15kg roll of welding wire. In the meantime, this one can touch 100% duty cycle when using 0.8mm wire.

While the maximum rod diameter for welding is up to 4.0mm, this can be a multifunctional welder with TIG, MIG, and ARC function.

And guess what? This hitbox is able to offer definitely a nice welding seam. 

Let me say this straight: Along with vast functionality and high expectations of the capacities, the price range is still in economy Class. When you tend to try a 1kg welding wire, I recommend taking off the wire feeding shaft.

Wow Feature of hitbox

This stuff contains all the necessary accessories. That means ready to be used right from the box.

What do I like most?

• 4 in 1 Multifunction MIG Welding Machine.
• Lightweight.
• More portable.

What could be better?

• The volt locks up procedure is non-adjustable.

6. Best For Bigger Project – Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130

Let’s be honest:

This machine may not be the world’s best mig machine, but for the price, it is a great deal. But it’s pretty sure; super deal Welder is a top-of-the-line household welder.

Here is why: A user-friendly interface allows anyone to set up a snap, surprisingly easy to access. So, handle big projects with confidence.

My Impression

“Fits in everywhere”

Yes, you heard that right.

The relatively small size is superb for convenient storage. This portability feature allows the user to tackle a bigger project that will require constant repositioning.

You can keep it on the shelf, in your toolbox, garage, or in the back of your car, or anywhere you want. That’s not all; the carrying handle makes it more handy and compact.

Still not convinced?

Equipped with a metal tip, this machine is sturdier. The copper tip protects from slags when you are welding. The soft key control panel is fully digitalized and offers a clear overview at all times. The best part, the display is readily accessible and super simple to operate. This display reduces the risk of operating errors.

Wow Feature of super deal pro mig 130

Features thermal overload protection to help protect you and your welder. 

What I like most?

• Comes with Welding Face Mask.
• Step-regulated.
• Uses convenient Flux.

What could be better?

• Poor ground clamp.

7. Good Cheap MIG Welder – Forney Easy Weld 261

A good, basic MIG welder uses 0.30, flux core wire. Lightweight 19 lbs, you can easily move it to any Do-It-Yourself, Repair, Metal Fabrication Maintenance, and Hobbyist project.

My Impression

The forney easy weld 140 mp is the lightest welder we came across. That’s why I love this so much, especially when I have outdoor projects.

The wire feed speed control and infinite voltage allow you to dial in the perfect weld! I would rather say it’s an ideal entry-level welder.RUGGED case, meant to last the day today. Another great thing, is it’s decent enough to tackle 2 and 10-pound rolls of wire.

A word of caution: Gasless/flux-core welding only.

Wow Feature of Forney easy weld

POWERFUL enough allows Up to 140 Amp output to weld mild steel up to 1/4 on the plate.

What I like most?

• Backed by a 1-year warranty.
• All metal case.
• Value for money.

What could be better?

• Create a lot of porosity.

#7 Golden Rules to follow while buying a MIG welder

Hell man!!!!! Choosing the best MIG welder is a bit tough task to deal with.

When you’re choosing your welding machine from a thousand, you may get confused easily. Let’s take a look at the guide to learn about what you need to check while you’re buying a welding machine.

The first thing you need to pay attention to is……..

Power supply

The most important thing you want to check on a MIG welder is the power supply. The power supply is important as it determines your welding type. Or you can say your weld type will decide which power options you should go for.

Well, when you’re welding thinner material and dealing with thinner welds, you can go for a 100 amp power. The mid-range power supply for a welder is 140-200 amp.

And guess what?

You can buy this range power supply option reliably. Make sure your power supply part works well, as it’ll be dealing with the powerful alternative current.

Weld type or nature

Deciding what kind of welding you’ll be doing is essential. If you’re a hobbyist, you need something that offers versatility. The specs of the welder change according to the weld type. Simple repair welding requires 1/16” thickness or 1/8” thickness. It would be best if you decided for which thickness you’ll be going.

Feed speed

Next, determine which feed speed will be suitable for you. If you’re buying a welder with slow feed speed, the arc wire will disappear at a glance when you’re welding. On the other hand, if you choose a welder with high feed speed, too much arc wire can cause a mess.

But first warning:

It’s always essential to make sure that the machine has the appropriate feed speed. You just need to choose the right one that suits your style and techniques.

Functionality

Make sure the machine you’re buying is versatile and comes up with a comfortable controlling system. This controlling system allows you to operate the machine perfectly.

When you’re welding, you must make sure that the machine comes up with a display, good quality knobs, easy installation feature, long power cord, suitable storage, and everything.

Safety tools

Safety tools for such machines are a must. When you’ll be dealing with a high flow of electricity and heat, you need to maintain the safety issues. Make sure your device comes up with thermal overload protection. Welders tend to overheat so easily and to reduce overloading; you need thermal protection installed in your welder.

…I know, bummer right? 

Inbuilt contractors are great as they keep the wires cold. They also switch the power supply when you’re trying to trigger the machine.

Extras and accessories

There are several extras you can get with a MIG welder. You can check if your MIG welder has those extras or not. Having a LED with the welder will be a blessing. You can also check if your MIG welder comes up with a welding helmet.

What is the best brand of MIG welders?

Well, if you ask about the best brand that gives you durability and performance at the same time, the first name that will come in the scenario is the brand Hobart.

Hobart

Hobart has been making different welding tools for a long time now. This brand originated in the USA that makes the tools high quality and long-lasting. They offer so much on a short budget. Besides Mig welders, they have a variety of products to choose from.

The Hobart handler Mig welder from them is pretty awesome and perfect for home-based welding activities. You can use it for heavy tasking as well. It comes up with superior power and mechanism to provide you everything.

Forney

The brand Forney industries are also based in the USA. This brand is pretty older as well. It was established in 1932, a long ago from this time. This brand has its reputation of serving the highest quality gas metal arc welder.

Wait, wait, wait……

If you’re looking for a welder that’ll do the welding process gently, last longer, and come up with a decent price tag, you can go for Forney’s easy weld machine to help you.

Miller

Another master-class brand for high-quality MIG welder is the Miller. This brand is on the field for a long time now. This brand started its journey by making different tools that can deal with metals and rough objects.

The Miller Electric MIG welder is pretty awesome. You can do anything with it. You can go for this brand undoubtedly and rely on them.

Are MIG welders good?

Yes, it is. It doesn’t matter if you are a beginner or a professional welder, MIG welders are always convenient to use in any project.

Should I buy a MIG or stick welder?

Buying a MIG or Stick welder actually depends on your project. If you are working with thicker materials and need deep penetration, buy a stick welder. You will be able to weld stainless steel, iron, steel, nickel or aluminium.

But if you are welding on steel, aluminum, copper, or alloy, then go for a MIG welder.

Is MIG welding as strong as a stick?

According to the penetration power during welding, MIG does not penetrate as deep as a stick. MIG is designed to get less penetration to work on sheet metals while it is better to use Stick welding to work on thicker metals.

Therefore, they both can be strong if the welding is done with perfection and with proper supervision. But the main thing is to consider which material is the workpiece.

Can MIG Welder Weld Aluminum?

It’s the question you secretly dread, right?

Listen:

The skill level of the welder, fit-up/positions, joint types, — as well as the power supply — all have a great influence on the weldability of the aluminum.

Does it make any sense?

Aluminum in the pure form is the comparatively soft metal that has various uses, which actually requires many alloys to increase its strength.

Despite these major issues, when it comes to aluminum MIG welding isn’t that difficult when you are using the right tools and maintaining the proper procedures.

Want to learn about best welders for exhaust pipe: How do choose? (Important!). Click here.

How thick can a MIG welder weld?

Gas metal arc welding or GMAW is also called MIG welding.

This welding method is popular all over the world, and people use this method to weld things widely. It’s basically a high arc welding process. With this process, the welding person basically feeds a solid wire electrode through the welding gun in order to weld properly. The welding gun also sends in a shielding gas to make your weld more durable and zero contaminated.

The MIG welding process is called the metal inert gas process.

It’s ideal for people from any stage. There is another benefit of MIG welding. It’s super easy to learn. You can learn it easily.

Hobbyist or a DIY person?

No worry, you can choose MIG welding for your home-based jobs. You can weld 24 gauge to 1 or 2 inches thick metal with MIG welding.

Are gasless MIG welders any good?

Yes, they are actually. Gasless welders are popular among consumers because they are convenient to use, fast and better arc control and are the perfect tool for welding outdoors.

But since this does not contain any shielding gas, the exposure of toxic gases can cause health hazards and the positioning is limited as well.

What is a good MIG welder for home use?

Hobart Handler 140 can be a good welder for home use because it does not require any extra tool kit and the setup for this lightweight machine is really quick.

What is the Ideal MIG welder for a beginner?

The ideal MIG welder for a beginner is Hobart Handler 190. 7 voltage selection options, wire speed, and wire control as well as enhanced magnetic provide the welder with improved arc performance.

How To Use MIG Welder?

Step 1: Take a clear idea about the background of MIG and how it works.

Step 2: safety comes first. So arrange the safety gear.

Step 3: Prepare for the welding.

Step 4: Set up the beads.

Step 5: Welding the metal together.

Step 6: Grind down the weld.

Wrapping Up and Decision Time

Based on our research and testing, your choice of the first-rate MIG welder will ultimately depend on your job nature and preference. But no wonder budget is a great concern.

With that in mind, we tried to pick the best of the best MIG welder from the market at a modest price range. Each of the welders enters our list for their great performance.

From the Best Budget Welder list, Hobart handler 190 (Click for details) is our personal favorite and we highly recommend it. This is literally a solid little MIG welder that does an amazing job in portable situations.

Happy welding!

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• Best Small & Mini Welders Review For Your Bussiness
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References

• MIG Welding: The Basics for Mild Steel
• How to Weld – MIG Welding
• Why MIG Welding is Better Than TIG Welding
• How NOT TO Weld: Most Common MIG Welding Mistakes
• MIG Welding for Beginners