Welding is an activity through which one can break and create new materials. And there are many people who are hobbyist welders. It is important that they choose the best welders for themselves.
But, how would one know which welder is the best for them? The following list includes the best welders for hobbyists. They will be perfect for those who weld out of the fun and enjoyment they gain from welding. So, with no further ado, let us look into the list.
Best Welders for Hobbyists: 7 Top Picks by Experts In 2022
The following list includes the seven best welders for hobbyists, along with their best features, description, and a few possible drawbacks.
Table of Contents
- 1 1. Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder 115V (Overall Best)
- 2 2. LONGEVITY Migweld 140 (Most Intuitive)
- 3 3. LOTOS TIG200 (Most Feature-loaded)
- 4 4. Forney Easy Weld 299 (Best for Beginners)
- 5 5. ESAB 0558101694 MiniArc 161LTS Stick Package (Best for Advanced Use)
- 6 6. YesWelder MIG-205DS MIG/Flux Core/TIG/Stick Welder (Easiest to Use)
- 7 7. Forney Easy Weld 140FC-I Flux Core Welder (Most Lightweight)
- 8 What Should you Look for When you Buy a Welder for Hobbyists?
- 9 Final Words
1. Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder 115V (Overall Best)
If you are beginning to explore your welding hobby, this welder is the best for you. It is ideal for welders who have initiated their welding journey. You will always find a stable and smooth arc with this tool, no matter the thickness.
This is because of the 5-position voltage control selector. One can work very easily with this welder. It is because of the work cable, which is 10 feet long. Moreover, it also has a clamp, which helps determine a specific route for one or more cables.
This welder also integrates a dual-gauge regulator along with a gas hose. This tool can function on a 4000-watt generator. And thus, you can use this tool in any place you want.
The tool is not just ideal for beginners. Even professionals can work with it. It is because this tool welds industrial machines with the finest impeccability. It has a drive system that is three-groove.
The quality of welding that you get from this tool is next to perfect. And it also comes with a warranty of three years.
- Dimensions: 19 x 11 x 13 inches
- Weight: 57 pounds
- Input voltage:115 V
- Amperage range: 25 to 140 Amp
- Duty cycle: 20% duty cycle @ 90 Amps
- Materials weldable: aluminium, steel and stainless steel
What we like:
- Lightweight as it weighs 57 pounds only, and thus, easily portable
- Ideal for both beginners for ease of use and professionals as it welds industrial machines
- It has a warranty for three years
What we don’t:
- Quality is sometimes inconsistent
- One cannot adjust tension without a wrench
2. LONGEVITY Migweld 140 (Most Intuitive)
This welder is a robust one. It has the capability of mild welding steel up to a thickness of ⅜”. Additionally, it comes with a power plug already present in it.
Another attractive feature of this welder is its portability. You can carry it anywhere you want and wherever you want. The reason for it is its lightweight. And also, it is because of a strong handle that is present in it.
It is one of the best welders for hobbyists because it is solid and robust. Also, it is straightforward to work with. Figuring out how it functions and then using it for welding is not difficult.
This welder includes a wire with it as well. The wire is functional on glass. And it is applicable even without it, with the use of gasless flux-core welding.
One can use this welder anywhere because it plugs in at any place. This tool is ideal for welding purposes at your home, repairing or in shops.
- Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9.6 inches
- Weight: 54 pounds
- Operational outlet power: 110V
- Source of Power: corded electrical
- Method for installing: MIG welding
- Amperage: 140 amp
What we like:
- It has protection for thermal overload
- Ease of use and setting up or installation
- A great welder that is value for the investment
What we don’t:
- It may not be much suitable for welding heavy and industrial machines
- It lacks enough and exciting features
3. LOTOS TIG200 (Most Feature-loaded)
The features that come with this welder are huge. Out of the numerous features, some are dual-frequency and dual voltage. Additionally, you get a mask and a pedal with this welder.
The accuracy in work that one gets from this tool is inimitable. The reason for its precision is the square-wave inverter. There are many other factors in this welder that ensure absolute accuracy.
The aspects include the feature of welding with heat-control, control with hand-torch and foot pedal. And with all these good features, the welder also consists of the auto-detection element.
One gets a guarantee of getting the money back within 30 days of purchase if they are not satisfied with the welder tool. Additionally, the device comes with a three years warranty as well. So, you can buy this welder with utmost confidence and reliability.
Another handy feature is its Papst advanced cooling system. This feature ensures that the plasma cutter undergoes an effortless, smooth and long-lasting, most acceptable level of performance.
- Dimensions: 28 x 13 x 17 inches
- Weight: 58 pounds
- Voltage: 240.00 volts
- Maximum amperage: 200 amp
- Power Efficiency: 80%
- Materials that it can weld: steel, aluminium and thinner gauge materials
What we like:
- High-precision welding
- Warranty for three years and refund policy for 30 days after purchase
- Packed with most effective features
What we don’t:
- A pretty large and heavy welder may not fit everywhere. Not easily portable.
- The torch is bulky too, and the tool lacks the pulse feature
4. Forney Easy Weld 299 (Best for Beginners)
If you have initiated welding, and have found it becoming your hobby, then this welder is the best for you. It is the welder that includes all the necessary levels of basic welding. So, if you are planning to enhance your hobby from the initial point, this is the tool you must opt for.
It looks after safety measures as well. And that is why the tool integrates a ground clamp. And it doesn’t require shielding glass for welding.
The welder comes with a warranty for six months. It assists anyone who wants to explore and delve deep into the different aspects of welding. One can weld lightweight and heavy materials with the same level of precision.
It is pretty lightweight. And also comes with a fancy handle. It is not just its handle that is fancy. This welder has a unique and beautiful appearance as well.
- Dimensions: 12 x 18 x 24 inches
- Weight: 51 pounds
- Output amperage: 125 amp
- Input voltage: 120V
What we like:
- Small, compact and lightweight. Thus, easy portable
- Unique and attractive design
- Perfect for the beginner hobbyists
What we don’t:
- The warranty period is just six months, which is not long enough
- Not much applicable for advanced welding purposes.
5. ESAB 0558101694 MiniArc 161LTS Stick Package (Best for Advanced Use)
If you dwell in advanced tasks, this tool is perfect for amplifying your hobby skills. You can efficiently utilize this tool for welding tasks that one can not perform with a MIG welder. Be it any advanced welding task. You will get fine precious work with this welder.
It is highly compact. Also, its weight is just 18lbs. Thus, you can easily carry it anywhere you find necessary. Additionally, this welder works ideally for house and industrial welding purposes.
The features that are present in this tool are numerous. They envelope different spheres of the device that are essential for welding. You can readily utilize both the current options in the household and industrial welding tanks.
The precision of welding sustains even if you are working on rust, slag or old paint. And, you get all of these highly advanced and effective features at the most reasonable prices.
- Dimensions: 15.75 x 5.75 x 10 inches
- Weight: 18lbs or 28.8 pounds
- Amperage: 5A to 160A for welding on DC supply
- Voltage: 115V or 230V
- Welding cable: 10ft
What we like:
- Extremely lightweight, weight 18lbs only
- Ideal for any advanced welding work
- It has a warranty period of 3 years
What we don’t:
- It does not come with a handle to carry
- Lacks a TIG torch or a regulator
6. YesWelder MIG-205DS MIG/Flux Core/TIG/Stick Welder (Easiest to Use)
One can perform a variety of welding functions with this welder. It integrates the features of an LCD screen digital display. And the MIG mode of welding has a collaborative arc control.
You can perform four different welding functions with this tool. And with just a single button, you can readily switch from one position to another. Thus, it has an ease of usability as well.
The maintenance requirements also come with the tool itself because a flip-up cover of plastic protects the LCD screen, the buttons, and the other essential parts of the welder.
There are dual spools. One is 2pounds, and the other one is 10 pounds. If you work for long hours, you do not need to buy it manually. This is possible because of the feature of the 2T/4T trigger lock.
It weighs 33 pounds. And thus, it is pretty lightweight. It also comes with a firm handle. Therefore, both its grip and lightweight make it easily portable.
The quality of performance is highly durable and stable. Thus, you can rely on its performance and effectively nurture your welding hobby.
- Dimension: 20 x 16 x 11 inches
- Weight: 33.9 pounds
- Amperage: 30Amp to 205 Amp
- Adapter: 110V/ 220V
- Dual voltage: 110V/ 220V
What we like:
- It has a digital LCD screen display
- One button switches among the four welding functions
- Lightweight and thus, easily portable
What we don’t:
- It does not come with a TIG torch; it lacks heat for MIG welding
- It takes not more than 2 pounds spools of wire
7. Forney Easy Weld 140FC-I Flux Core Welder (Most Lightweight)
This is a very lightweight welder. It weighs just 19 pounds. It also has a very compact design. Thus, one can easily carry it anywhere they want.
It is an ideal welder tool for beginners. So, if you want to begin with your welding hobby, this welder tool can assist you ideally.
The durability of this tool is commendable. The reason for this is its live exhaust fan. It effectively keeps the temperatures in the machine low and thus enhances its longevity.
Additionally, when the temperatures are expected. The fan stops working automatically. Thus, we can see the features of this tool are pretty advanced as well.
The quality of performance of this tool is the finest. It leaves small footprints, which is excellent for the environment as well. The durability, simple way of functioning, and reasonable prices make it one of the welders that will never disappoint you.
- Dimensions: 16.7 x 12 x 8.1 inches
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Output amperage: 140 amp
- Input voltage: 120V
- Duty cycle: 30% @ 90A
- Adapter: 20A to 15A
What we like:
- Lightweight and easy portable
- Adjustable feed is infinite
- It comes with a warranty for one year
What we don’t:
- It is not capable of gas MIG welding
- Feeding with hard wire is quite difficult
What Should you Look for When you Buy a Welder for Hobbyists?
There are certain aspects that determine whether a welder is appropriate for a hobbyist or not. So, we have put forward the following list. It will help you buy the welder for a hobbyist.
The factors that you must consider while buying a welder for hobbyists are as follows.
i. Materials that it can weld
Ensure how many materials the welder you choose can weld. It is better if the welder welds a larger number of materials. Then, you can use it on any material whenever the necessity arises.
ii. Frequency of use
If you use the tool quite frequently, then choose a strong and durable welder. Some welders can not withstand excess or intense welding tasks. Thus, choose accordingly.
iii. Determine the welding process
There are different welding processes available. It includes MIG welding, TIG welding and the like. Which one do you prefer more?
Choose the welder tool that specifies or facilitates the welding process you prefer performing. Also, you may want to perform all of the welding processes. And you have appropriate welders for that as well.
iv. Specification of use
Ensure that the welder you choose is apt for which welding purpose. There are welders that are ideal for household purposes. And there are welders that are ideal for industrial purposes.
Also, you will find welders that can work any and every welding task. So, ensure which one you specify. And choose accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that are commonly asked relating to hobbyist welding.
What do I need to start my welding hobby?
You would need some tools or the basic welding types of equipment. The most basic tool you would need is a MIG welder; or a stick welder. It would be enough to begin as a hobbyist welder.
How can I teach myself welding in the form of a hobby?
There are a few aspects that can help you learn welding as a hobby. They are as follows.
- Start working in an area that has enough ventilation. Ensure to wear your safety gear.
- There are four different styles of welding. Choose the one you would want to start with.
- Start by practising on any scrap metal before welding on the actual project.
- Get in touch with the welding community and classes.
What is the easiest welding style to learn?
MIG welding or Metal Inert Gas welding is the easiest style of welding that you can learn. It is because, in TIG welding, you need more precision. Also, TIG is a relatively slower process than MIG welding.
What are the three basic types of welding processes?
One is MIG welding, which is Metal Inert Gas welding. It has the other name of GMAW or Gas Metal Arc welding.
The second type is TIg welding, which is Tungsten Inert Gas welding. And the last type is arc welding.
Can I weld without any prior experience?
Yes, definitely. You need to follow the safety guidelines and always have your safety gear on. And lastly, you must know the basics of welding which you can assess from the Internet tutorials or from advice from an experienced welder.
Final Words
These are the seven best welders for hobbyists. Pursuing your hobby to the next level gives a sheer feeling of satisfaction and happiness. And for that, you must always choose the best.
And for choosing the best, we have put forth the seven best welders that will ideally help you nurture your hobby to the fullest.
If you are yet to decide on which one to buy, let us help you a little further. If you want an overall best welder, then go for Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder 115V.
And if you are looking for the cheapest hobbyist welder, then, Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-I Flux Core Welder is the best fit.