Thread: Help me choose a MIG

I apologise in advance, I know this subject comes up all the time. I am really struggling to pull the trigger on a new Welder.



I am in the market for a new MIG welder, only need MIG but if multifunction is the better option I am all for it.



Don't need portability, but all things being equal an inverter would be nice. I have a dedicated 240v 15a power point for the unit (actually its 20A), looking to run it on gas as well.

Usage will be serious hobbiest use, mainly thinner stuff <4mm Mild Steel.



Budget is under $2000 but I have a little room to move on that.

What would the more experienced members recommend?

My gut is leaning toward the Token Tools 210s:

https://weldingstore.tokentools.com.au/synergic-mig-welder-multi-process-mig210s

The Kemmpi EVO 200 looks awesome, but I have seen some mixed reviews:

https://www.nationalwelding.com.au/m...evo-200-p-9329


The lincoln 180c also looks suitable but my local supplier doesn't have stock and they actually recommended I buy something else:

Lincoln - Power MIG 180C - 180A MIG Welder - K2668-1 | Total Tools





Thanks
Joez

Lots on here rave about the token tools welders, not a fan of a multi function tool, been burnt in the past. Not sure if Token do a stand alone mig only.

Kempii are expensive and in saying saying that I don't know how much is the model you have posted.

The Lincoln is a transformer style mig, its heavy, and is best suited on a fixed stand.

I use mine on gasless wire only, can't afford the rent on the bottle, gasless wires these days are tops compared to the early stuff made in the 1970's.

Ensure whatever you buy has both functions gas and gasless wires, stay clear of the cheap Ching welders bought at Bunnys and other auto shops, will only bring you tears.

DD

Originally Posted by joez

My gut is leaning toward the Token Tools 210s:

https://weldingstore.tokentools.com.au/synergic-mig-welder-multi-process-mig210s

I have that welder, along with a tokentools spool gun. I haven't had any issues at all with it - feel free to ask any specific questions.
Cheers
- Mick

$2k should get you an awesome little mig.

keep shopping around and don't forget to ask for free shipping/ courier : )

lincoln speedtec 200 would be something i'd look at but it only takes 200mm spools.

meadow

If portability is not a concern, then why do you have a preference for an inverter based machine? An inverter is more efficient and uses less power for a given output for sure, but the difference is negligible for your service. If you include transformer machines in your search then I would not be against a machine such as a Fab Gear 270T or 270T Remote (same machine, but with portable feeder). An interesting feature of these machines is that the power source has a 4 roll wire feed unit fitted as well as the portable feeder, meaning that potentially, you could set the machine up with two different wires and swap at will, albeit while losing the portable wire feed with one of the wires. You will need a genuine 15 or 20A supply, (preferably with D curve breaker, which all circuits running welders should run), to do the machine justice, but the one we have at work runs well.
To be honest, I think Kemppi has a far bigger reputation than they deserve. They are good, but in my opinion do not justify either their cult following or the price premium they attract. Avoid BOC. They are cheap and are built cheap. You could buy the same standard of machine of Ebay and pay less. Cigweld make some reasonable machines and some real shockers.
The best advice I can give is to buy a solid machine with only the features you actually need. Every extra feature means a compromise elsewhere given similar pricing points. Generally speaking, transformer machines will outlast inverters and be more repairable (many circuit boards are now non repairable, so once spare parts dry up, that's it for your machine).