Best 110v Stick Welders - 4 Top Picks for DIY Value
May 30, 2024
5 min read
Ever found yourself in the middle of a DIY project, only to realize that your trusty old welding machine just isn't up to the task? Maybe you're trying to fix a gate hinge or build a custom metal frame, and your current setup just isn't cutting it. We've all been there, and that's why you're here—looking for the best 110V stick welder that can handle your needs without breaking the bank.
When it comes to selecting the top 110V stick welders, we didn't just go for the cheapest options. Instead, we focused on quality and reliability. Our criteria included:
- Power Output: Ensuring the machine delivers the best possible performance on a 110V input.
- Rod Compatibility: How well the machine handles different types of welding rods.
- Build Quality: Assessing the durability and construction of each welder.
- Brand Reliability: Considering the reputation and support offered by the manufacturer.
- User Satisfaction: Taking into account real-world user reviews and experiences.
We purposefully avoided the cheapest options, especially those from less reliable manufacturers, to save you from the frustration of dealing with unreliable machines and poor customer support. Now, let's dive into the details.
To make your research as effortless as possible, we've organized the content on this page to suit your needs, whether you're a quick-decider or a deep-diver:
- Handy Selector Tool: Enter your preferences, and our tool will recommend the top 3 welders tailored to your needs.
- Detailed Product Reviews: Read in-depth reviews of each welder we've featured, covering all the essential details.
- Buyer's Guide: If you're new to welding or just need a refresher, start here to understand what to look for in a 110V stick welder.
Use the links in our table of contents at the top of the page to jump to any section quickly and easily.
Your Personal Selections
Numerical Choices
Selecting a bigger value for any feature, will make products with higher values of that feature to rank higher.
Max Output:
Weight:
Amp Range:
Categorical Choices
Selecting any option means that products with that option will rank higher. This will not filter out options, it will only make your desired options rank higher.
Input Power:
Material Thickness:
Welding Type:
| Img | Brand | Model | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Hobart | Hobart Stickmate 160i | $$$$ | Check Availability |
 | YesWelder | YesWelder Arc Pro 165A | $$$ | Check Availability |
 | Forney | Forney Easy Weld 100ST | $$ | Check Availability |
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Hobart Stickmate 160i
Hobart Stickmate 160i
4.8 WeldWins Rating
The Hobart Stickmate 160i is a versatile and lightweight DC stick welder that offers impressive performance with dual-voltage input and a wide amp range. Ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike, it provides excellent value for money with its industrial build quality and 5-year warranty.
Brand:
Hobart
Model:
Hobart Stickmate 160i
Price Rating:
$$$$
Input Power:
Dual 110v/240v
Max Output:
160 amps
Material Thickness:
24-gauge to 1/4-inch steel
Welding Type:
DC stick welder
Warranty:
5-year warranty
The Hobart Stickmate 160i stands out as a top choice for both hobbyists and professionals seeking a reliable and versatile stick welder. With its dual-voltage input power of 110v/240v, this machine offers flexibility and convenience, making it suitable for various welding environments. The lightweight design, weighing just 20 pounds, and the included shoulder strap make it incredibly portable, allowing you to easily transport it to different job sites or around your workshop.
One of the key features of the Hobart Stickmate 160i is its wide 20-160 amp range, which provides the capability to handle a variety of welding tasks. Whether you're working with 24-gauge sheet metal or 1/4-inch thick steel, this welder delivers consistent and smooth performance. The infinitely adjustable current setting ensures precise control, enabling you to achieve the perfect weld every time. Additionally, the Hot Start feature makes it easy to strike an arc, even for beginners.
Hobart is renowned for its industrial build quality, and the Stickmate 160i lives up to this reputation. It can handle most rod compositions, including 6010, 6011, 6013, and 7018 rods from various manufacturers. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of welding applications. Despite being manufactured in China, the Stickmate 160i is built to meet Hobart's stringent standards and is backed by an impressive 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of its durability.
While the Hobart Stickmate 160i is priced at the higher end, it offers exceptional value for money. Its performance and features rival those of more expensive models, making it a cost-effective choice for those who need a dependable stick welder. Whether you're a hobbyist looking to take on DIY projects or a professional in need of a reliable welding machine, the Hobart Stickmate 160i is a worthy investment that delivers on its promises.
Benefits
- Easy to start with Hot Start
- Lightweight at 20 pounds
- Wide 20-160 amp range
- Infinitely adjustable current
- Includes a shoulder strap
Complaints
- Made in China despite American brand
- Priced at the higher end
2. YesWelder Arc Pro 165A
YesWelder Arc Pro 165A
4.5 WeldWins Rating
The YesWelder Arc Pro 165A is a versatile and lightweight welding machine that excels in light-duty tasks, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and hobbyists. With its dual-voltage capability and user-friendly features, this welder offers great value for its price.
Brand:
YesWelder
Model:
YesWelder Arc Pro 165A
Price Rating:
$$$
Input Power:
Dual-powered on 110v and 240v
Self Setting:
Self-setting by rod diameter
Synergic Welding:
Synergic welding technology
Vrd:
VRD voltage-reduction device
Tig Capable:
Lift-TIG capable (needs parts)
The YesWelder Arc Pro 165A is a surprisingly impressive welding machine, especially considering its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at under 11 pounds, it is incredibly portable, making it ideal for those who need to move their equipment frequently. The dual-voltage capability allows it to operate on both 110V and 240V, providing flexibility for various welding environments. This feature is particularly useful for hobbyists and beginners who may not have access to a 240V outlet.
One of the standout features of the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A is its self-setting technology. By simply selecting the rod diameter, the machine automatically adjusts the current settings, making it incredibly user-friendly. This is a fantastic feature for those who are new to welding, as it removes much of the guesswork involved in setting up the machine. The welder performs exceptionally well with 6013 and 7014 rods on 110V, delivering consistent and reliable welds.
However, the machine does have its limitations. It struggles with 6010 rods on 110V, and while 6011 rods perform slightly better, they are not ideal. Additionally, the quality of the ground clamp and electrode holder leaves something to be desired. Both components feel cheap and may need to be replaced for more serious welding tasks. Despite these drawbacks, the overall performance and features of the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A make it a worthwhile investment.
For those interested in TIG welding, the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A is also capable of running the TIG process, although additional parts such as a torch and regulator will need to be purchased separately. While it may not be the best option for TIG welding, its versatility in handling different welding processes adds to its appeal. Overall, if you are looking for a reliable, lightweight, and user-friendly welding machine for light-duty work, the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A is a great buy.
Benefits
- Works well on 110V with 6013 & 7014 rods
- Extremely light, under 11 pounds
Complaints
- Struggles with 6010 rods on 110V
- Cheap quality ground clamp
- Weak electrode holder, needs replacement
- Not ideal for TIG welding
3. Forney Easy Weld 100ST
Forney Easy Weld 100ST
4.6 WeldWins Rating
The Forney Easy Weld 100ST is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a compact and portable welding solution. With its lightweight design and versatile capabilities, this welder is perfect for small projects and home repairs.
Brand:
Forney
Model:
Forney Easy Weld 100ST
Price Rating:
$$
Output:
10-90 amp output
Material Thickness:
16-gauge to 1/4-inch steel
Weight:
Weighs 9.7 pounds
Rod Size:
Burns up to 1/8-inch rods
Duty Cycle:
30% duty cycle @ 80 amps
The Forney Easy Weld 100ST is a fantastic entry-level welder that offers a great balance of performance and portability. Weighing just under 10 pounds and with dimensions of approximately 12 by 10 by 6 inches, this welder is incredibly easy to store and transport. Whether you're working in a small shop or need to carry it around for various home projects, its compact size makes it a convenient choice.
One of the standout features of the Forney Easy Weld 100ST is its 10-90 amp output, which is sufficient for most beginner welding tasks. It handles 6013 and 3/32 7018 rods exceptionally well, providing smooth and consistent welds. While it struggles to reach the full 90A output, it still performs admirably for its size and price range. The adjustable current dial allows for precise control, making it easier for novices to achieve the desired results.
Another significant advantage of this welder is its TIG capability, which is quite rare in this price range. Although you will need to purchase additional parts like an argon regulator and a TIG torch, the ability to convert to TIG welding adds tremendous value. This feature makes the Forney Easy Weld 100ST a versatile tool that can grow with your skills. However, it's worth noting that the 8-foot leads are relatively short, and the ground clamp has a poor contact design. These minor issues can be easily fixed and shouldn't deter you from considering this welder.
Overall, the Forney Easy Weld 100ST is an ideal choice for beginners who need a reliable and portable welding solution. Its compact design, adjustable current dial, and TIG capability make it a versatile and valuable addition to any DIY enthusiast's toolkit. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the performance and features offered at this price point make it a worthwhile investment.
Benefits
- Handles 6013 and 3/32 7018 rods well
- Ideal for beginners
- Compact and portable
- True 110V model
- Adjustable current dial
- TIG capable (extra parts needed)
Complaints
- Struggles to reach full 90A output
- 8-foot leads are short
- Ground clamp has poor contact
- Stinger feels cheap and doesn't hold rods well
- TIG torch not included
4. Miller Maxstar 161 S
Miller Maxstar 161 S
4.9 WeldWins Rating
The Miller Maxstar 161 S is a top-tier professional welder, perfect for those who need reliable performance with 6010 rods. Lightweight and packed with features like anti-sticking and power factor correction, it's an excellent choice for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts.
Brand:
Miller
Model:
Miller Maxstar 161 S
Price Rating:
$$$$$
Input Power:
Dual 110v-240v
Amp Range:
20-160 amp range
Weight:
Weighs 13 pounds
Rod Setting:
Specific setting for 6010 rods
Anti Sticking:
Cuts power if stuck
The Miller Maxstar 161 S is a premium professional machine that stands out for its industrial build quality and exceptional performance. One of its standout features is the specific setting for 6010 rods, addressing a common issue with lightweight inverter-type welders. This ensures that you can run 6010 rods with ease, making it a reliable choice for demanding welding tasks. Additionally, its CSA certification means it's qualified for government jobs, adding an extra layer of credibility and trustworthiness.
Weighing in at just 13 pounds, the Miller Maxstar 161 S is incredibly portable, making it ideal for professionals who need to move their equipment frequently. Despite its lightweight design, it doesn't compromise on power, offering up to 90 amps output on 110 volts. The anti-sticking feature is another highlight, preventing issues with sticking electrodes when running low current. This feature not only enhances the welding experience but also extends the lifespan of the machine by cutting power if you do get stuck.
The Miller Maxstar 161 S also boasts a power factor correction feature, ensuring consistent arc characteristics and current levels when switching between 110 volts and 240 volts. This makes it versatile and adaptable to various power sources, a crucial factor for professionals working in different environments. While the digital controls may pose a risk of failure under hard use, this is a minor drawback compared to the numerous benefits it offers. For the average DIY enthusiast, this is unlikely to be a significant concern, making the Miller Maxstar 161 S a worthwhile investment for both professionals and serious hobbyists.
Benefits
- Perfect for 6010 rods
- Lightweight at 13 pounds
- Power factor correction for consistent performance
- Anti-sticking feature prevents issues
- Lowers voltage when idle
Complaints
- Digital controls may fail
- Expensive for an industrial welder
Your Buyer's Guide
What Should You Consider When Buying a 110v Stick Welder?
When it comes to welding, having the right equipment can make all the difference. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, a reliable 110v stick welder can solve your immediate welding needs, offering portability and ease of use. Many in the welding community are turning to these versatile machines for their ability to handle various tasks with efficiency. Let's dive into the key features you should consider before making your purchase.
Features to Consider
Input Power
The input power of a welder determines its versatility and usability in different environments. Dual-voltage welders, like the Hobart Stickmate 160i and YesWelder Arc Pro 165A, can operate on both 110v and 240v, offering flexibility for various job sites. Single voltage models, such as the Forney Easy Weld 100ST, are typically lighter and more straightforward, making them ideal for beginners.
Amp Range
The amp range of a welder determines the thickness of the material it can handle. For instance, the Hobart Stickmate 160i offers a wide 20-160 amp range, making it suitable for both thin sheet metal and thicker steel. In contrast, the Forney Easy Weld 100ST has a 10-90 amp output, which is sufficient for most beginner tasks but may struggle with thicker materials.
Weight and Portability
Portability is crucial, especially if you need to move your welder frequently. Lightweight models like the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A, weighing under 11 pounds, are incredibly portable and easy to transport. The Miller Maxstar 161 S also offers excellent portability at 13 pounds, making it ideal for fieldwork.
Welding Rod Compatibility
Different welders handle various rod types with varying degrees of efficiency. The Hobart Stickmate 160i excels with rods like 6010, 6011, 6013, and 7018, making it versatile for multiple applications. On the other hand, the YesWelder Arc Pro 165A performs well with 6013 and 7014 rods but struggles with 6010 rods on 110V.
Additional Features
- Hot Start: This feature, found in the Hobart Stickmate 160i, makes it easier to strike an arc, which is particularly beneficial for beginners.
- Anti-Sticking: The Miller Maxstar 161 S includes an anti-sticking feature that cuts power if the electrode sticks, preventing damage and making the welding process smoother.
- Self-Setting Technology: The YesWelder Arc Pro 165A’s self-setting technology adjusts the current based on the rod diameter, simplifying the setup process.
Wrapping it Up
Choosing the right 110v stick welder depends on your specific needs and budget. Here are our top three recommendations:
- Hobart Stickmate 160i: Best overall for both hobbyists and professionals, offering dual-voltage input, a wide amp range, and a 5-year warranty.
- YesWelder Arc Pro 165A: Best value for light-duty work, featuring self-setting technology and excellent portability.
- Miller Maxstar 161 S: Best for fieldwork and professional use, with specific settings for 6010 rods and anti-sticking features.
Each of these welders brings unique strengths to the table, ensuring you can find the perfect match for your welding needs.
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