Best Portable Welders (2023) – Reviews & Top Picks

A portable welder is a tiny machine yet packed with power. It’s suitable for use at home for DIY projects and industrial applications.

This incredible machine works best in outdoor welding, especially in situations where you need to work out the workshop, which can be a challenge. There are various portable welders out there in the stores.

These vary in terms of price, size, and features. If you need one for your projects, it can be a challenge to pick the best portable welders that will suit your specific needs.

Worry less; here we have a roundup of these machines to help you choose the right welder for your product. Keep scrolling.

Quick Reference: Portable Welders Comparison

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Pitbull Ultra-Portable 100 Amp	Weight 28 pounds. Perfect for home use & light duty. Voltage: 110V.	Check Price!
	VIVOHOME MIG Welder 130	110V voltage. Frequency 50-60 HZ. Overheating protection.	Check Price!
	HZXVOGEN 110/220V Welder	Duty Cycle: 60%. Input power: 110V/220V. Weight: 8.45 pounds.	Check Price!
	Lincoln K2278-1 Handy Core	Output: 35-88 amps Easy to set Weight 45 pounds	Check Price!
	ZENSTYLE Arc Welding Machine	Output: 35-88 amps Dual voltage Weight 17.88 pounds	Check Price!

1. Best for Arc Welding – Pitbull Ultra-Portable 110 V Arc Welder

Making it to the top of our list is the C.M.T Pitbull welder. Although it has been around for a short time, it has won the heart of many DIY enthusiasts.

If you’re wondering, how much is a portable welder? We highly recommend this machine for anyone looking for an affordable welder for home use.

With a power voltage of 100 amps, it can excellently weld materials of up to ¼ inch thickness. Additionally, the amp control oscillates between 45 and 100 amps, whereas, for a single-phase, it requires a unit of 26 Amps.

The CMT is a versatile welder that works on different types of metals, such as steel and other sturdy surfaces. With an overall dimension of 18x13x1 inches, this welder weighs only 28 pounds, and therefore it’s extremely portable for outdoor use.

The welder is easy to use and only takes a short while before you can get used to it. The good thing about it is that it comes with everything to get you started.

PROS

• Lightweight and portable.
• Easy to use.
• Versatile for use on different metals.
• The package comes with everything to get started.
• Can weld ¼ thicknesses.

CONS

• Only for use on DC.

2. Best For DIY Welder – VIVOHOME 110V Flux Core

Up next is the VIVOHOME, which is an impressive portable welder. It’s a good bargain if you’re looking for a functional machine for home use. The package has all accessories needed for welding. Inside, you’ll find a ground clamp helmet, wire brush, and more.

The machine is consistent and runs on a 155v therefore; a 15amp break can supply power to weld a metal thickness of up to 1/4 inches. Consequently, you can cut thin metal such as steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and even thick steel metals for flux-cored welding.

The build of this portable welding machine is adorable, and the outer surface is coated with a stylish black matte that will give you value for a long. It features a compact design with in-built storage. Thus, you can store it conveniently.

The machine is flexible to use since the front side features switches for setting your desired speed and current requirements.

PROS

• Has a built-in storage.
• Portable design for use at home.
• Stylish coating.
• Can cut a variety of metal sizes.
• Adjustable settings.

CONS

• It doesn’t have a contractor for use to power the flux core wire. Therefore, this becomes a challenge of working on large projects.
• Only for DC use.

3. Best for Easy to Carry – HZXVOGEN 110/220V Dual Voltage

The main reason why we settled on the HZXVOGEN is the high duty cycle, and hence it gets protected from damage. This makes it absolutely useful for home use, garages, and small shops. It’s also a perfect fit for small farm machinery where you have access to a generator.

This remarkable machine is suitable for use in stick welding. It’s has a dual voltage of 100v/220v, which boosts its efficiency levels and performance.

The welder is a money saver and comes with all the accessories to make your work easier. Inside the package, you’ll find an electrode holder, 30A cord, and earth clamp.

The welder weighs only 1.95 kg and has a handle that makes it easy to carry around. Therefore, you can use it anywhere with many conveniences.

PROS

• It’s a dual voltage welder.
• The package has everything you need.
• Comes in a compact size and lightweight design.
• Has a carry handle for easy transportation.
• Affordable option.

CONS

• Short cord.
• For optimal performance, you’ll need to put the machine on 168 amps.

4. Best for Beginner Portable Welder – S7 220V ARC Welding Machine

Another perfect choice is the S7 220V ARC Welding Machine, which is one of the cheap welders available on the market. The first thing you’ll discover about this portable welder is its compact and lightweight design.

With an average weight of 9.65 pounds, the S7 is lightweight and portable for your welding projects. Further, there is a handle that makes it easy to carry. We also love the fact that it’s energy-saving, and this keeps your energy bills at bay.

The welder runs on a 190-220-240 input voltage and offers balance protection in case of overheating or over current. It has adjustable settings with an easy-to-start process. The power gradually decreases when the arc sticks on your workpiece.

There are several components that accompany the package, and these include a rod holder, ground clamp, quick plug, and user manual.

PROS

• Has a compact and lightweight design.
• Has a handle for carrying.
• Energy saver.
• Overload protection.
• Has a wide range of accessories.

CONS

• The puddle not very smooth.

5. Best for Lightweight – Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core

The Lincoln Electric K2278-1 is not only a money saver but also heavenly sent for beginners looking for affordable solutions. Indeed, this welder was designed to meet the welding needs of uses, especially for DIY projects. It’s one of the best welding machine brands.

This welding machine has several accessories. First off, you’ll get a cord, earth clamp, and electrode holder. Secondly, the machine is significantly smaller when you compare it to other models. It comes in a lightweight yet the portable design that makes it convenient for your outdoor projects.

It’s a dual voltage machine, and this makes it a versatile option for cutting different metal sizes. When it comes to performance, this welder will not disappoint since it can weld up to 1/8 inches thickness. Its output range is 35 to 88 amps but can be of use on 70 amps at a 20% duty cycle.

PROS

• It’s easy to set up and use for beginners.
• Has a lightweight, compact and portable design.
• Safe for use at home.
• Perfect build and durable.
• Comes at an affordable price.

CONS

• Not suitable for large projects.
• The ground clamp doesn’t last long.

6. Best for Stick Welding – HITBOX ARC Welder 160A

The HITBOX model is a small and stylish welding machine for DIY tasks. The main reason why we recommend this welder is it’s a durable machine, pretty tough, and will give you value for money.

Although most welding projects require the use of electrical power, the good news is that this machine can be powered by a generator. Hence, this makes it suitable for your outdoor projects.

Further, there’s a control panel that lets you adjust your settings depending on your needs. This machine comes versatile with lift and MMA arc and will work on most metal pieces. Besides, it has a longer duty cycle of 60%.

It has a TIG welding function that prevents contamination with metals such as steel when hot.

This portable welder machine works on a 220 voltage and has protection against overload and overheating. It’s a money power that’s equally portable and lightweight.

PROS

• Lightweight and portable.
• Has a longer duty cycle.
• Multi-functional unit.
• Protects against overload.
• Will give you value for money.

CONS

• The welding cables are shorter.
• The amperage is high.

7. Best for Automotive Welding – ZENSTYLE Dual Voltage

The ZENSTYLE Arc Welding Machine us a dual voltage of 115V / 230V that uses both AC as well as DC current. Thus this makes it a versatile machine that you can use to cut various metals such as aluminum and stainless steel.

Additionally, it comes with built-in features that merge for a consistent arc and high-quality weld. The machine has voltage protection against any overload or undercurrents. There’s also a step-down transformer that’s greatly beneficial in converting the voltage.

You’ll love the compact and lightweight design of this welder, not forgetting the handle that makes it easier for transport.

We can’t forget to mention that the ZENSTYLE is a power saver and uses little energy, mainly due to IGBT technology.

PROS

• Portable and compact design.
• A dual voltage that ensures versatility.
• Easy to use, and easy start and stable arc.
• Uses energy efficient.
• A high duty cycle of 60%.

CONS

• Does not have a hot-start feature.
• The material doesn’t feel durable.

8. Best for Novice – Forney Easy Weld 298

The Forney is a small yet powerful welding machine that can cut heavy metal. It may not perform like the high-end welding machine, but you’ll surely get value for money.

Whether you’re a DIY hobbyist or have a small workshop, the Forney will give you quality cuts, and you’ll be impressed by its performance. You can use it for small and major fixes around the house. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have an easy time trying your hand on this machine.

One good thing about this welder is that it can plug to AC and DC outlets as it has a dual voltage of 120/90 amp. It has TIG capabilities that you’ll need to buy separately.

Other than the compact design, it also features a handle for easy carriage. There’s also a long handle that can stretch across the room, and thus it’s a convenient device to use.

PROS

• It’s a powerful welder that can cut a variety of metals.
• It can use both AC and DC currents.
• Compact and portable.
• Impressive performance.
• Has a handle for easy carriage and long handle.

CONS

• You must buy the TIG capable separately.
• Has a shorter duty cycle of 20% at 80 amps.

9. Best for Entry-Level Welder – Forney Easy Weld 261 – 120V MIG Welder

The Forney Easy Weld 261 is a popular welding machine for home use and professional use. It features all features necessary for simple operation.

The flux core wire makes it easy for you to set your preferred wire feed and amount of voltage. Also, this incredible machine has a 140 amp that makes it versatile to weld different metals such as ¼ inch steel effortlessly.

One more feature that makes this Forney model is the lightweight design. Therefore, it’s incredibly portable for use in your workshop, and some fabrication works in your garage or outdoors. It’s a durable machine since the outer metal is made of premium material that will last long.

The package comes with a ground clam, 20A to 15A adapter, and a handle. However, there are some accessories, such as tips, nozzles, and diffuser, which you’ll need to purchase separately.

PROS

• The cost of acquisition escalates since you’ll have to buy other accessories for optimum performance.
• Not suitable for very heavy use.

CONS

• Not suitable for very heavy use.

10. Best for Automatic Feed Welder – Super Deal PRO Welding Machine

Our last product on our recommendation list is the Super Deal PRO Welding Machine. This is a fantastic welder that comes with various features at a great price.

This model comes with flux-cored wire and inert metal gas to use when you’re welding. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about oxidation.

The machine is easy to use and comes with variable controls you can use to set the speed. Indeed, you can adjust up to ten varying wire speeds depending on your preference.

You’ll have an easy time using the Super Deal Pro unit since it has a sleek design for easy transport and storage. Since it weighs 38 pounds, it’s ideal for home use and outdoors. It’s a good value for money and comes with a hammer, extra tips, ground clamp, mask, and more.

Finally, we recommend this machine since its versatile for welding stainless steel and mild steel.

PROS

• Versatile machine.
• Compact and portable.
• Easy to use.
• Have adjustable settings.
• Quality work.

CONS

• Uses AC current only.
• The face mask is poor quality.

What To Look For When Buying A Portable Welder?

What is a good portable welder? Most people will tell you of bad experiences using cheap welders. In some instances, beginners are skeptical about trying a new machine for their DIY jobs. However, for small jobs, it’s a no-brainer to get a good machine that will perform exceptionally.

Below here, we look at the things to consider when buying a portable welder.

Compact and lightweight

As the name suggests, a portable welder is suitable for use at home and outdoors. As such, you should find one that’s compact size and lightweight. This greatly solves transport problems, and you can tuck it in your trunk for some outdoor projects.

Additionally, consider one with a carry handle for easy transport.

Dual voltage

A dual voltage machine gives you the flexibility of using the home currently. You’ll not need to buy converting devices, and this saves you some money. In the same breath, consider a machine that is energy efficient that ensures your power bills are kept minimal.

Versatility

A versatile machine will weld several metals and give you value for money. Likewise, a unit made of durable materials will last long. Quite too often, a multi-functional machine comes with adjustable settings that let you set your speed options.

Accessories

A package that comes with accessories is a money and time saver. This should be a top consideration since it can be tiresome running back to the store.

Conclusion

There you have it, our honest review of the best portable welders. Top among the factors that we put into consideration are:

• Lightweight and compact design
• Ease of use and versatility.
• Durability
• Dual output and optimum performance

Whereas a portable welder is a small machine, it has extensive use around the house, garage, and other small fixes that don’t require calling in a professional welder.

For a beginner, the choices can be overwhelming more so if it’s the first time you’re using this machine. Hopefully, you can now shop with confidence and get yourself an excellent machine for your projects.