Top 6 110v MIG Welders for DIYers

May 31, 2024

5 min read

Welding EquipmentMIG WeldingBuyer's Guide
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Ever found yourself knee-deep in a weekend project, only to realize your trusty old welder just isn't cutting it? Maybe it's a patio table that needs fixing or a motorcycle bracket that's seen better days. Whatever the case, you're here because you need a reliable 110-volt MIG welder that can plug into any regular wall socket and handle those small but essential tasks around the house.

When we set out to find the best 110V MIG welders, we focused on a few key criteria: power output with 110V input, machine build quality, brand reliability and support, and overall user satisfaction. We didn't just look for the cheapest options; we aimed for quality and reliability. After all, a welder that breaks down or has hard-to-find parts is more trouble than it's worth.

Now, let's talk about how you can make the most of this guide. We know your time is too valuable to waste, so we've made it super easy for you to find the best 110V MIG welder:

  1. Handy Selector Tool: Enter your preferences and get our top 3 picks tailored just for you.
  2. Detailed Product Reviews: Dive into the nitty-gritty details of each welder we've reviewed.
  3. Buyer's Guide: New to the research process? Start here to understand what to look for in a welder.

Use the links in our table of contents at the top of the page to jump to any section quickly. Ready to find your perfect welder? Let's dive in!

Your Personal Selections

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ImgBrandModelPriceLink
Image of Eastwood MIG 180 from Eastwood
EastwoodEastwood MIG 180$$$Check Availability
Image of Hobart Handler 140 from Hobart
HobartHobart Handler 140$$$$Check Availability
Image of Weldpro MIG200GDsv from Weldpro
WeldproWeldpro MIG200GDsv$$$$$Check Availability

Detailed Product Reviews

1. Eastwood MIG 180

Image of Eastwood MIG 180 from Eastwood
Eastwood MIG 180

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The Eastwood MIG 180 is a versatile welding machine that offers dual power options, making it perfect for both home and professional use. With its lightweight design and advanced features, this welder provides excellent value for money and is a great alternative to more expensive models.

  • Brand:

    Eastwood

  • Model:

    Eastwood MIG 180

  • Price Rating:

    $$$

  • Power Output:

    30-180 amps

  • Input Voltage:

    Dual input 110v or 220v

  • Material Thickness:

    24 gauge to 5/16-inch steel

  • Drive System:

    All-metal drive system

  • Generator Friendly:

    Yes

  • Spool Gun Ready:

    Yes

  • Weight:

    Under 26 pounds

  • Torch Type:

    Tweco-style torch

  • Trigger Lock:

    2T/4T trigger lock

The Eastwood MIG 180 Welding Machine stands out for its dual power capability, allowing it to run on either 110 volts or 220 volts. This flexibility means you can easily switch between home and professional settings without any hassle. The 110v input is perfect for home projects, while the 220v option provides the extra power needed for more demanding tasks. This dual input voltage feature makes the Eastwood MIG 180 a versatile tool that can adapt to various welding needs.

One of the significant improvements in the MIG 180 over its predecessor, the MIG 175, is the enhanced drive system. This new system addresses the inconsistent wire feeding issues that users experienced with the older model. Additionally, the MIG 180 offers a higher power output, ranging from 30 to 180 amps, and includes a tack weld mode for low-power operations. The infinitely adjustable controls allow for precise settings, making it easier to achieve the perfect weld. These features make the Eastwood MIG 180 not only more reliable but also more efficient.

The Eastwood MIG 180 is also generator friendly and spool gun ready, which means you can easily weld aluminum with the optional spool gun. This feature is particularly useful for those who need to work in remote locations or on materials that require specialized equipment. The machine's lightweight design, weighing under 26 pounds, makes it easy to transport and handle, adding to its overall convenience. Furthermore, the 2T/4T trigger lock is ideal for auto bodywork, allowing you to run long beads on sheet metal as thin as 24 gauge.

In terms of value, the Eastwood MIG 180 offers excellent bang for your buck. It competes well against more expensive models like the Hobart 210, providing similar, if not better, performance at a lower price point. The standard parts are easy to replace, and the torch parts are readily available, making maintenance straightforward. While the regulator may feel a bit cheap and the machine only offers 120 amps on 110v, these minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its numerous advantages. Overall, the Eastwood MIG 180 is a solid investment for anyone looking to tackle a variety of welding projects with ease and efficiency.

Benefits

  • Excellent value for money
  • Great alternative to the Hobart 210
  • Standard parts are easy to replace
  • Tack weld setting for longer runs
  • Generator friendly
  • Spool gun ready
  • Lightweight
  • Easy-to-find torch parts

Complaints

  • Only 120 amps on 110v
  • Regulator feels cheap

2. Hobart Handler 140

Image of Hobart Handler 140 from Hobart
Hobart Handler 140

4.7 WeldWins Rating

The Hobart Handler 140 is a reliable and robust 110V MIG welder, perfect for both beginners and seasoned welders. Its solid build quality and excellent support make it a worthwhile investment despite its higher price point.

  • Brand:

    Hobart

  • Model:

    Hobart Handler 140

  • Price Rating:

    $$$$

  • Power Output:

    25–140 amps

  • Input Voltage:

    110v

  • Material Thickness:

    24 gauge to 1/4-inch steel

  • Duty Cycle:

    20% at 90 Amps

  • Welding Type:

    MIG and flux core

  • Generator Friendly:

    Yes

  • Drive System:

    Aluminum wire drive

  • Torch Type:

    High quality MIG torch

The Hobart Handler 140 is a staple in the world of 110V MIG welders, and for good reason. This machine has earned its reputation as a reliable and durable tool, capable of handling a wide range of welding tasks. With a power output of 25 to 140 amps, it can weld anything from 24 gauge sheet metal to 1/4-inch steel, making it incredibly versatile. The transformer-based design, while heavier, ensures that the machine can withstand tough environments, providing consistent performance over time.

One of the standout features of the Hobart Handler 140 is its build quality. Manufactured by Hobart, a company known for its industrial-grade welding equipment, this welder is built to last. The aluminum wire drive system and high-quality MIG torch contribute to its durability and reliability. Additionally, the industrial-grade ground clamp and easy-to-find consumables make maintenance and repairs straightforward, ensuring that you can keep your machine in top condition with minimal hassle.

While the Hobart Handler 140 does come with a higher price tag compared to some of its competitors, the value it provides is undeniable. The machine's robust construction and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about welding. Moreover, the excellent support and warranty offered by Hobart add an extra layer of assurance, giving you peace of mind that you're backed by a reputable company. The only significant drawbacks are its weight and the need for a wrench to adjust tension, but these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall benefits.

In summary, the Hobart Handler 140 is a top-tier 110V MIG welder that offers exceptional value for its price. Its combination of power, durability, and support makes it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals. While newer inverter models like the Eastwood MIG 180 may offer some advantages in terms of weight and advanced features, the Hobart Handler 140 remains a solid and dependable option that won't disappoint.

Benefits

  • Reliable transformer-based machine
  • Solid build quality
  • Industrial-grade ground clamp
  • Easy-to-find consumables
  • Excellent support and warranty

Complaints

  • Expensive for a 110V MIG machine
  • Heavier due to transformer
  • Requires a wrench to adjust tension

3. Weldpro MIG200GDsv

Image of Weldpro MIG200GDsv from Weldpro
Weldpro MIG200GDsv

4.6 WeldWins Rating

The Weldpro MIG200GDsv is a versatile multi-process welder that offers MIG, TIG, flux-core, and stick arc capabilities in one compact and lightweight package. With dual-voltage input and a robust all-aluminum wire drive system, this welder is perfect for both hobbyists and professionals looking for reliability and performance.

  • Brand:

    Weldpro

  • Model:

    Weldpro MIG200GDsv

  • Price Rating:

    $$$$$

  • Welding Type:

    MIG, TIG, and stick

  • Power Output:

    25-200 amp

  • Input Voltage:

    Dual 110-240v

  • Drive System:

    All-aluminum wire drive

  • Display:

    Digital display

  • Torch Type:

    Includes MIG and TIG torches

  • Warranty:

    2-year warranty

The Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process Welder is a game-changer for anyone in need of a versatile and reliable welding machine. This welder offers MIG, TIG, flux-core, and stick arc capabilities all in one compact unit, making it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals. The inclusion of both MIG and TIG torches, as well as a MIG gas regulator, adds significant value right out of the box. Weighing only 30 pounds, its lightweight design ensures that you can easily transport it to different job sites without any hassle.

One of the standout features of the Weldpro MIG200GDsv is its dual-voltage input, allowing you to plug into either a 110-120 volt or 220-240 volt power source. This flexibility means you can weld a wide range of materials, from 24 gauge sheet metal to 3/8-inch thick steel, depending on the power source. The digital display and all-aluminum wire drive mechanism, which accommodates both 4-inch and 8-inch wire spools, further enhance its usability and durability. Whether you're working on small projects or tackling more substantial tasks, this welder has you covered.

While the Weldpro MIG200GDsv excels in many areas, it's worth noting a couple of limitations. If you plan to use the TIG function, you'll need to purchase a TIG gas regulator separately, as it's not included. Additionally, the machine is not foot pedal capable, which might be a drawback for some users. However, it does feature a 2T/4T trigger lock for long TIG weld runs and uses a lift-type arc start for TIG, which helps maintain control and precision during your work. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall performance and versatility of this welder make it a worthwhile investment.

In summary, the Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process Welder offers exceptional value with its multi-process capabilities, dual-voltage input, and robust construction. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, this welder provides the flexibility and reliability you need to tackle a variety of welding projects. Its lightweight design and comprehensive feature set make it a standout choice in the market, ensuring that you get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Benefits

  • Includes MIG gas regulator
  • Comes with MIG and TIG torches
  • 13-foot TIG connection
  • Mounts 4 and 8 inch rolls
  • Lift-type TIG start

Complaints

  • TIG gas regulator costs extra
  • Not foot pedal capable

4. Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i

Image of Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i from Forney
Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i

4.5 WeldWins Rating

The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists looking for a versatile and affordable welding machine. With its wide power output range and ease of use, this flux core-only welder offers great value and performance for various welding tasks.

  • Brand:

    Forney

  • Model:

    Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i

  • Price Rating:

    $$

  • Power Output:

    10-140 amps

  • Input Voltage:

    110v

  • Material Thickness:

    32 gauge to 1/4-inch

  • Welding Type:

    Flux core only

  • Weight:

    19 pounds

  • Drive System:

    All metal wire drive

  • Torch Type:

    Tweco-style MIG torch

The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is a remarkable welding machine that stands out for its versatility and affordability. Designed specifically for flux core welding, this machine offers a wide power output range from 10 to 140 amps, making it suitable for a variety of welding tasks. Whether you're working on thin sheet metal or thicker materials up to 1/4-inch, this welder has you covered. Its lightweight design at just 19 pounds makes it highly portable, allowing you to take it wherever your projects lead you.

One of the standout features of the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is its user-friendly nature, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The machine is generator friendly, which means you can use it in remote locations without worrying about power availability. Additionally, it supports both 4-inch and 8-inch wire spools, giving you flexibility in your welding projects. The all-metal wire drive system ensures durability and reliability, while the Tweco-style MIG torch provides a comfortable and efficient welding experience.

While the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is not gas-capable, it excels in flux core welding, which is particularly advantageous for outdoor projects where wind can be an issue. The infinitely adjustable power level control and wire feed speed adjustment allow for precise control over your welding process, ensuring high-quality results every time. Although the machine comes with short 8-foot connections, this minor drawback is easily outweighed by its numerous benefits and overall performance.

In summary, the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i offers excellent value for its price, making it a top choice for those new to welding or looking for a reliable secondary machine. Its ability to handle a wide range of materials and thicknesses, combined with its ease of use and portability, makes it a versatile tool for any welding enthusiast. Despite its limitations, such as the lack of gas capability and shorter connections, the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i remains a highly recommended option for anyone seeking a dependable and efficient welding solution.

Benefits

  • Great for beginners
  • Generator friendly
  • Handles thin to thick materials
  • Excellent value
  • Supports 4 and 8 inch spools
  • Easy to find consumables

Complaints

  • Not gas-capable
  • Short 8-foot connections

5. Lincoln K2278-1

Image of Lincoln K2278-1 from Lincoln
Lincoln K2278-1

4.4 WeldWins Rating

The Lincoln K2278-1 is an affordable, high-quality flux core welder perfect for beginners. With its easy setup and versatile capabilities, it's ideal for quick household repairs and small projects.

  • Brand:

    Lincoln

  • Model:

    Lincoln K2278-1

  • Price Rating:

    $$

  • Power Output:

    35-88 amp

  • Input Voltage:

    110v

  • Material Thickness:

    Welds up to 1/8-inch

  • Welding Type:

    Beginner’s flux core machine

  • Warranty:

    12 month warranty

  • Drive System:

    Cold electrode wire

  • Torch Type:

    MIG gun included

The Lincoln K2278-1 Handy Core is an excellent entry-level flux core welder designed for beginners. One of its standout features is the straightforward setup process, which allows users to start welding within minutes of unpacking. The machine comes with factory-connected leads and a MIG gun that's ready to use, making it incredibly user-friendly. This ease of use is a significant advantage for those new to welding, as it eliminates the often daunting setup process associated with more complex machines.

This welder is particularly well-suited for quick household repairs and small projects. Whether you're fixing torn metal on patio tables, repairing brackets and exhausts on motorcycles, or handling automotive repairs, the Lincoln K2278-1 can handle it all. Its ability to weld metal up to 1/8-inch thick makes it versatile enough for various tasks, from assembling angle iron for tables and plant stands to repairing pool fencing. The multiple settings ranges also provide flexibility, allowing users to adjust the machine according to the specific requirements of their projects.

Despite its many advantages, the Lincoln K2278-1 does have a few drawbacks. The duty cycle is relatively low at 20% for 70 amps, which means it may not be suitable for extended welding sessions. Additionally, some users have reported that the ground clamp is of lower quality, but this is a minor issue that can be easily and inexpensively resolved by replacing the clamp. However, these minor cons are outweighed by the machine's overall performance and the value it provides. Lincoln is a reputable brand in the welding industry, known for its reliable products and extensive network of dealerships, ensuring that you have access to support and replacement parts when needed.

Benefits

  • Easy to set up
  • Ideal for sheet metal
  • Factory-connected leads
  • Multiple settings ranges
  • Welds up to 1/8-inch

Complaints

  • Low duty cycle at 20% for 70 amps
  • Ground clamp quality could be better

6. Titanium MIG 170

Image of Titanium MIG 170 from Titanium
Titanium MIG 170

4.5 WeldWins Rating

The Titanium MIG 170 by Titanium is a versatile and powerful MIG welder that offers dual-voltage input, making it perfect for both home and professional use. Its lightweight design and easy setup make it a must-have for anyone looking to tackle a variety of welding projects with ease.

  • Brand:

    Titanium

  • Model:

    Titanium MIG 170

  • Price Rating:

    $$$

  • Power Output:

    30-170 amp

  • Input Voltage:

    Dual voltage 110v / 240v

  • Material Thickness:

    24-gauge to 3/8-inch steel

  • Welding Type:

    MIG and flux core

  • Weight:

    24 pounds

  • Drive System:

    All-metal wire drive

  • Torch Type:

    Spool gun ready

The Titanium MIG 170 MIG Welder is a standout choice for both hobbyists and professionals alike. With its dual-voltage input power, you can easily switch between 110-volt and 240-volt settings, providing you with the flexibility to work in various environments. This feature alone makes it a versatile tool that can adapt to your specific needs, whether you're working in your garage or on a job site. The welder's power output ranges from 30 to 170 amps, allowing you to handle a wide range of materials, from thin 24-gauge sheet metal to 3/8-inch steel.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Titanium MIG 170 is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 24 pounds, this welder is incredibly easy to transport and maneuver, making it ideal for those who need to move around frequently or work in tight spaces. The all-metal wire drive system ensures durability and reliability, while the tool-free wire changes make it simple to switch spools quickly. Additionally, the welder supports spools ranging from 2 to 12 pounds, giving you the flexibility to choose the right size for your project.

The Titanium MIG 170 also comes equipped with a digital display, which makes setup and monitoring a breeze. This feature is particularly useful for beginners who may not be familiar with the intricacies of welding settings. The welder is spool gun ready, allowing you to easily weld aluminum up to 1/4-inch thick without any additional modifications. This makes it an excellent choice for those who work with a variety of materials and need a reliable, all-in-one solution.

While the Titanium MIG 170 has many strengths, it's worth noting a couple of minor drawbacks. The MIG gun lead is quite stiff, which can make it a bit challenging to maneuver in certain situations. Additionally, the ground clamp feels somewhat cheap, which may be a concern for those looking for a more robust setup. However, these issues are relatively minor compared to the overall performance and value this welder provides. With its combination of power, versatility, and ease of use, the Titanium MIG 170 is a top-tier choice for anyone in need of a reliable welding solution.

Benefits

  • Ready for spool gun
  • Easy inductance control
  • Lightweight at 24 pounds
  • Tool-free wire changes
  • Supports 2- to 12-pound spools

Complaints

  • MIG gun lead is very stiff
  • Ground clamp feels cheap

Your Buyer's Guide

What Should You Consider When Buying a MIG Welder?

When it comes to finding the perfect MIG welder, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to tackle DIY projects or a professional needing a reliable tool for heavy-duty tasks, the right MIG welder can make all the difference. The right welder can solve immediate and urgent problems, such as repairing broken metal parts or creating new structures. Moreover, many welding enthusiasts and professionals are turning to MIG welders for their versatility and efficiency, so you're in good company.

Features to Consider

Power Output

Power output is a crucial factor when choosing a MIG welder. It determines the thickness of the material you can weld and the types of projects you can undertake. For instance, the Eastwood MIG 180 offers a power output range from 30 to 180 amps, making it suitable for both light and heavy-duty tasks. On the other hand, the Hobart Handler 140 provides 25 to 140 amps, which is ideal for most home and small workshop projects. Higher power output allows for welding thicker materials, but it also requires more robust electrical infrastructure.

Input Voltage

The input voltage of a MIG welder determines where you can use it. Welders like the Weldpro MIG200GDsv and the Eastwood MIG 180 offer dual input voltage (110v or 220v), providing flexibility for both home and professional settings. Single voltage welders, such as the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i, are typically limited to 110v, making them more suitable for home use but less versatile for industrial applications.

Material Thickness

The thickness of the material you can weld is another important consideration. For example, the Eastwood MIG 180 can handle materials from 24 gauge to 5/16-inch steel, while the Hobart Handler 140 is suitable for 24 gauge to 1/4-inch steel. If you need to weld thicker materials, you'll require a welder with higher power output and the appropriate settings.

Drive System

The drive system affects the welder's reliability and ease of use. An all-metal drive system, like the one in the Eastwood MIG 180, ensures durability and consistent wire feeding. The Titanium MIG 170 also features an all-metal wire drive, which is known for its robustness and longevity. In contrast, aluminum wire drives, such as the one in the Hobart Handler 140, are lighter but may not be as durable.

Weight and Portability

If you need to move your welder frequently, weight and portability are significant factors. The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i weighs just 19 pounds, making it highly portable. Similarly, the Eastwood MIG 180 is lightweight at under 26 pounds, making it easy to transport between job sites. Heavier models, like the Hobart Handler 140, offer more stability but are less convenient to move.

Additional Features

Additional features can enhance the usability and versatility of a MIG welder. For instance, the Eastwood MIG 180 is spool gun ready, allowing you to weld aluminum easily. The Weldpro MIG200GDsv includes both MIG and TIG torches, offering multi-process capabilities. Features like digital displays, trigger locks, and generator compatibility can also make a significant difference in your welding experience.

  1. Eastwood MIG 180

    • Pros: Dual input voltage, spool gun ready, lightweight, excellent value for money.
    • Cons: Only 120 amps on 110v, regulator feels cheap.
    • Why: This welder offers professional-grade power and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of welding tasks.
  2. Hobart Handler 140

    • Pros: Reliable transformer-based machine, solid build quality, excellent support and warranty.
    • Cons: Expensive for a 110V MIG machine, heavier due to transformer.
    • Why: Known for its durability and reliability, this welder is perfect for both beginners and seasoned welders.
  3. Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i

    • Pros: Great for beginners, generator friendly, excellent value, lightweight.
    • Cons: Not gas-capable, short 8-foot connections.
    • Why: This budget-friendly option is ideal for beginners and hobbyists looking for a versatile and portable welding machine.

By considering these features and options, you can make an informed decision and choose the MIG welder that best suits your needs. Happy welding!

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