Best MIG Welding Wire – Reviews and Top Picks

July 11, 2024

5 min read

MIG WeldingBuyer's Guide
a collage of images of Best MIG Welding Wire – Reviews and Top Picks
Disclaimer: WeldWins only exists because of readers like you. That's why this page may contain links that earn us a commission if you follow them and make a qualified purchase. Consider visiting our Support Us page to learn more.

Ever had one of those days where nothing seems to go right in the workshop? You’re all set to weld, but the wire keeps jamming, the feed is inconsistent, and the welds look like they were done by a first-timer. Frustrating, right? We’ve all been there, and it’s often down to using the wrong MIG welding wire. Poor quality wire can turn a straightforward job into a nightmare, wasting both time and money. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you, sifting through the market to find the best MIG wires that promise smooth feeds, minimal spatter, and excellent weld quality.

In our quest for the top picks, we focused on ER70S-6 mild steel wire, the industry standard for most welding tasks. We evaluated 10-pound rolls of .030 size wire, ensuring a fair comparison. Our criteria included:

  • Material Quality: High-quality steel with or without copper coating
  • Performance: Consistent wire diameter, low-spatter performance, and excellent bead and penetration
  • Versatility: Compatibility with different gas mixtures and welding applications
  • Reliability: Smooth unwinding and minimal feed issues

We prioritize quality over just price, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Now, let’s dive into how you can make the most of the tools and content on this page.

We know your time is too valuable to waste, so we’ve made researching the best MIG welding wire super easy. You have the freedom to choose how detailed you want your research to be with the following options:

  1. Our Handy Selector Tool: Enter your preferences and get our top 3 picks tailored just for you.
  2. Detailed Product Reviews: Dive into the detailed information for each welding wire we’ve reviewed.
  3. Buyer's Guide: If you’re new to the research process, start here to understand what to look for in a welding wire.

Use the links in our table of contents at the top of the page to quickly jump to any section you want. Happy welding!

Your Personal Selections

Numerical Choices

Selecting a bigger value for any feature, will make products with higher values of that feature to rank higher.

Material Quality:
Strength:
Performance:

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.

Coating:
Gas Compatibility:
Application:
ImgBrandModelPriceLink
Image of INEFIL ER70S-6 from INEFIL
INEFILINEFIL ER70S-6$$$Check Availability
Image of Lincoln SuperArc L-56 from Lincoln
LincolnLincoln SuperArc L-56$$$$$Check Availability
Image of YESWELDER ER70S-6 from YESWELDER
YESWELDERYESWELDER ER70S-6$$$$Check Availability

Detailed Product Reviews

1. INEFIL ER70S-6

Image of INEFIL ER70S-6 from INEFIL
INEFIL ER70S-6

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The INEFIL ER70S-6 welding wire, crafted with high-quality steel and a light copper coating, offers exceptional performance for both professional and hobbyist welders. Its low-spatter performance and smooth unwinding make it a reliable choice for achieving clean, consistent welds.

  • Brand:

    INEFIL

  • Model:

    INEFIL ER70S-6

  • Price Rating:

    $$$

  • Material Quality:

    High-quality steel with copper coating

  • Manufacturing Process:

    High technology process control

  • Deoxidizers:

    Contains manganese and silicon deoxidizers

  • Origin:

    Made in Italy

The INEFIL ER70S-6 welding wire stands out in the market due to its high-quality steel construction and light copper coating. This combination not only protects the wire from rusting but also ensures a smooth feed performance, which is crucial for achieving consistent welds. Professional welders have praised its excellent bead appearance and penetration, which significantly reduces the post-weld cleanup time. The wire's consistent diameter further enhances its reliability, making it a preferred choice for both single and multi-pass welding applications.

One of the key advantages of the INEFIL ER70S-6 is its low-spatter performance. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who aim to produce clean and aesthetically pleasing welds with minimal effort. The inclusion of manganese and silicon deoxidizers in the wire's composition contributes to its superior wetting properties, ensuring that the weld pool flows smoothly and adheres well to the base material. This results in strong, durable welds that can withstand rigorous use.

Despite its numerous benefits, the INEFIL ER70S-6 does have a couple of drawbacks. It can be challenging to find in stock, which might be an inconvenience for those who need a steady supply. Additionally, it does not meet US MilSpec standards, which could be a limitation for welders working on government contracts that require compliance with specific regulations. However, for most other applications, this wire performs exceptionally well and is a cost-effective alternative to other high-end welding wires on the market.

Another noteworthy aspect is the wire's versatility with different gas mixtures. While INEFIL rates this wire for an 80 percent argon/20 percent CO2 mix, it also works effectively with a 75 percent argon/25 percent CO2 mix. This flexibility can lead to cost savings on gas bottles, making it an economical choice for both professional and hobbyist welders. Overall, the INEFIL ER70S-6 offers a blend of quality, performance, and value that is hard to beat.

Benefits

  • Low-spatter performance
  • Suitable for single or multi-pass welding
  • Wire unwinds smoothly without tangling
  • Consistent wire diameter
  • Excellent bead and penetration

Complaints

  • Can be hard to find in stock
  • Does not meet US MilSpec standards

2. Lincoln SuperArc L-56

Image of Lincoln SuperArc L-56 from Lincoln
Lincoln SuperArc L-56

4.9 WeldWins Rating

The Lincoln SuperArc L-56 is a premium-grade welding wire that stands out for its exceptional quality and reliability, making it the top choice for mission-critical applications. With its strict chemical quality control and compliance with military and shipbuilding standards, this wire ensures safety and performance in demanding environments.

  • Brand:

    Lincoln

  • Model:

    Lincoln SuperArc L-56

  • Price Rating:

    $$$$$

  • Coating:

    Copper-coated for durability

  • Diameter Consistency:

    Consistent diameter for reliable performance

  • Material Composition:

    High manganese and silicon content

  • Application:

    Handles medium to heavy mill scale

  • Standards Compliance:

    Meets military and shipbuilding standards

The Lincoln SuperArc L-56 is renowned in the welding industry for its unparalleled quality and reliability. This premium-grade wire is copper-coated for enhanced durability and features a consistent diameter, ensuring reliable performance in every use. Its high manganese and silicon content make it particularly effective in handling medium to heavy mill scale, making it a versatile choice for various welding applications.

One of the standout features of the Lincoln SuperArc L-56 is its strict adherence to chemical quality control, which exceeds both US and EU standards. This wire is not just about meeting the minimum requirements; it is about surpassing them. This level of precision and quality control is why it is the preferred choice for NASCAR, Formula 1, and NHRA racing teams, as well as roller coaster and thrill ride manufacturers. When safety and performance are paramount, professionals turn to Lincoln SuperArc L-56.

While the Lincoln SuperArc L-56 may be more expensive than some of its competitors, the value it provides justifies the cost. Its excellent wetting performance and versatility for both short-circuit and spray methods make it a reliable tool for professionals. Whether you are working on a trailer tongue, suspension components, or building a roll cage, the assurance that this wire meets stringent standards and is inspected for safety-critical applications is invaluable. Many professionals also appreciate how well this wire feeds, allowing them to fully utilize their skills and achieve the best possible results.

Benefits

  • Premium grade wire from Lincoln
  • Strict chemical quality control
  • Exceeds US and EU standards
  • Versatile for short-circuit and spray methods
  • Excellent wetting performance

Complaints

  • More expensive than competitors

3. YESWELDER ER70S-6

Image of YESWELDER ER70S-6 from YESWELDER
YESWELDER ER70S-6

4.7 WeldWins Rating

The YESWELDER ER70S-6 MIG welding wire offers exceptional feed quality and effective splatter control, making it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional welders. Its high manganese and silicon content ensures strong welds with good penetration, providing excellent value for its price.

  • Brand:

    YESWELDER

  • Model:

    YESWELDER ER70S-6

  • Price Rating:

    $$$$

  • Coating:

    Copper-coated for rust protection and smooth feeding

  • Material Content:

    High manganese and silicon content

  • Gas Compatibility:

    Made to run on 100% CO2

  • Performance on Materials:

    Good on steel with light rust or scale

  • Availability:

    Available in .030" & .035" sizes

The YESWELDER ER70S-6 MIG welding wire is quickly becoming a favorite among American welders, thanks to its consistent quality and reliable performance. This copper-coated wire not only protects against rust but also ensures smooth feeding through the torch liner, making your welding experience seamless and efficient. Users have praised its excellent feed quality, which is crucial for achieving clean and precise welds.

One of the standout features of this welding wire is its high manganese and silicon content. This composition allows for strong welds with good penetration, even on steel with light rust or scale. The wire is designed to run on 100% CO2, making it versatile and compatible with various welding setups. Available in both .030" and .035" sizes, it caters to different welding needs and preferences.

Despite its origins in Hong Kong, the YESWELDER ER70S-6 has garnered positive reviews for its performance and quality. While it may not meet specific EU or US government specifications, it excels in everyday welding tasks, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive American brands. Users have reported no issues with spattering, crushed wire, or inconsistent diameter along the spool, highlighting the product's reliability and consistency.

In addition to its technical merits, YESWELDER has also received good marks for customer service, further enhancing the overall value of this product. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional welder, the YESWELDER ER70S-6 MIG welding wire provides a dependable and high-quality option for your welding projects, ensuring strong and durable welds every time.

Benefits

  • Excellent feed quality
  • Effective splatter control
  • Strong welds with good penetration
  • Consistent quality throughout the spool

Complaints

  • Does not meet EU/US government specifications due to Hong Kong origins

4. Hobart ER5356

Image of Hobart ER5356 from Hobart
Hobart ER5356

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The Hobart ER5356 aluminum welding wire is a top choice for professionals, offering excellent corrosion resistance and high shear strength, making it ideal for marine applications and heavy-duty projects.

  • Brand:

    Hobart

  • Model:

    Hobart ER5356

  • Price Rating:

    $$

  • Corrosion Resistance:

    Excellent resistance to salt water

  • Warranty:

    30-day warranty

  • Strength:

    High shear strength

  • Alloy Type:

    5356 alloy for 5000 series aluminum

  • Shielding Gas:

    Uses 100% argon shielding gas

The Hobart ER5356 aluminum welding wire stands out as one of the best options available for those looking to weld aluminum. With its 5356 alloy, it is particularly versatile for welding 5000 series aluminum, making it a favorite among professionals. One of the key features of this wire is its excellent resistance to salt water corrosion, which makes it highly suitable for marine welding applications. This means that whether you're working on boat repairs or other marine equipment, you can rely on the Hobart ER5356 to deliver durable and long-lasting welds.

Another significant advantage of the Hobart ER5356 is its high shear strength. This makes it an excellent choice for heavy-duty projects such as truck bumpers and toolboxes, where strength and durability are paramount. Users have reported that the wire feeds well and produces clean, solid welds with good wetting action. Additionally, the bright finish of the welds requires less cleanup, saving you time and effort in the post-welding process. These features collectively make the Hobart ER5356 a reliable and efficient choice for a wide range of welding tasks.

However, it's important to note that using this wire requires some specific equipment. For instance, a Teflon liner and 100% argon gas are necessary for welding aluminum. While this might seem like an extra step, it ensures that the welds are free from contamination and maintain their integrity. Changing the liner in the torch lead and using a spool gun to shorten the electrode distance are also recommended practices to achieve the best results. By following these guidelines, you can maximize the performance and longevity of your welds.

In summary, the Hobart ER5356 aluminum welding wire offers exceptional value for both professional and hobbyist welders. Its combination of corrosion resistance, high shear strength, and ease of use makes it a standout product in the market. Whether you're tackling marine projects or heavy-duty applications, this wire provides the reliability and performance you need to get the job done right.

Benefits

  • Feeds well according to users
  • Produces clean and solid welds
  • Good wetting action
  • Less prone to welds cracking
  • Bright finish requires less cleanup

Complaints

  • Requires a Teflon liner and argon gas for aluminum

5. Harris E70S6E5

Image of Harris E70S6E5 from Harris
Harris E70S6E5

4.6 WeldWins Rating

The Harris E70S6E5 welding wire, crafted by the reputable Harris brand under Lincoln Electric, offers exceptional value with its copper-coated design and low spatter performance. Ideal for welding on dirty steel, this wire provides an extra pound at a competitive price, making it a smart choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

  • Brand:

    Harris

  • Model:

    Harris E70S6E5

  • Price Rating:

    $$$

  • Coating:

    Copper-coated

  • Gas Compatibility:

    Formulated to run on 100% CO2

  • Deoxidizers:

    Contains manganese and silicon for welding on dirty steel

  • Value:

    11 pounds for the price of 10 pounds

  • Performance:

    Designed for low spatter performance

The Harris E70S6E5 welding wire stands out in the market for its impressive blend of quality and affordability. As a product under the esteemed Harris brand, owned by Lincoln Electric, it carries the assurance of a reputable name in the welding industry. This wire is copper-coated and formulated to run on 100% CO2, making it versatile and efficient for various welding tasks. One of its standout features is the inclusion of manganese and silicon deoxidizers, which enhance its performance on dirty steel, ensuring cleaner and stronger welds.

Users have consistently praised the Harris E70S6E5 for its smooth feeding and low spatter rate, particularly at lower current settings with 100% CO2. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to achieve high-quality welds without the hassle of excessive cleanup. The wire's ability to handle light rust and moderate mill scale further adds to its appeal, making it suitable for a range of applications from repairing fencing to fixing engine brackets and machinery. The added value of receiving 11 pounds of wire for the price of 10 is a significant bonus, providing more material for your money.

While the Harris E70S6E5 does not meet US or European government or military standards due to its Chinese manufacturing, this does not detract from its overall quality. It meets AWS standards for ER70S-6 quantities of silicon and manganese deoxidizing compounds, ensuring reliable performance. For those who do not require certification for specific regulatory standards, this wire offers a cost-effective alternative to higher-end, highly inspected wires. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from users highlights its reliability and effectiveness, making it a worthy addition to any welder's toolkit.

Benefits

  • Welds comparably to big-name brands
  • Owned by Lincoln Electric, a reputable company
  • Feeds smoothly according to buyers
  • Offers an extra pound at a great price

Complaints

  • Made in China, does not meet US or EU government standards

Your Buyer's Guide

What Should You Consider When Buying a MIG Welding Wire?

When it comes to welding, the quality of your work often hinges on the materials you use. MIG welding wire is a crucial component that can make or break your project. Whether you're a professional welder or a DIY enthusiast, choosing the right MIG wire can solve immediate issues like poor weld quality, excessive spatter, and feeding problems. Moreover, using the same high-quality wire that other skilled welders prefer can boost your confidence and ensure your projects meet industry standards.

Features to Consider

Feed Quality

The feed quality of MIG wire is paramount. Different MIG machines and torch leads handle wire differently, and a wire that feeds smoothly can prevent jams and kinks, which can damage your equipment and reduce productivity. Look for wires that have a reputation for smooth feeding, as endorsed by reviews and welding forums. For instance, the INEFIL ER70S-6 is praised for its smooth unwinding and consistent diameter, making it a reliable choice for achieving clean, consistent welds.

Spatter and Flow

Spatter refers to small bits of metal that spray around the welding area. High-quality wires produce less spatter, reducing cleanup time and improving weld appearance. Flow characteristics are also crucial; some wires melt quickly and flow predictably, making it easier to control the weld puddle. The Lincoln SuperArc L-56 is known for its excellent wetting performance and low spatter, making it ideal for both short-circuit and spray methods.

Material Quality

Material quality affects the strength and durability of your welds. High-quality steel with a copper coating, like that found in the YESWELDER ER70S-6, ensures rust protection and smooth feeding. This wire's high manganese and silicon content contribute to strong welds with good penetration, even on steel with light rust or scale.

Gas Compatibility

The type of shielding gas you use can affect the performance of your MIG wire. Some wires are designed to run on 100% CO2, while others work best with an argon/CO2 mix. The Hobart ER5356 requires 100% argon gas, making it suitable for welding aluminum and offering excellent corrosion resistance, especially in marine environments.

Standards Compliance

For professional welders working on government contracts or critical applications, compliance with specific standards is essential. The Lincoln SuperArc L-56 meets military and shipbuilding standards, making it a top choice for safety-critical applications.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right MIG welding wire can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your welding projects. Here are three top recommendations:

  1. INEFIL ER70S-6: This wire offers low-spatter performance and smooth unwinding, making it ideal for both single and multi-pass welding. Its high-quality steel construction and light copper coating ensure consistent welds and excellent bead appearance.

  2. Lincoln SuperArc L-56: Known for its premium quality, this wire meets stringent military and shipbuilding standards. It offers excellent wetting performance and is versatile for both short-circuit and spray methods, making it a reliable choice for professionals.

  3. YESWELDER ER70S-6: This wire provides exceptional feed quality and effective spatter control. Its high manganese and silicon content ensure strong welds with good penetration, offering excellent value for its price.

By considering these features and recommendations, you can make an informed decision and achieve the best possible results in your welding projects.

Sharing is Caring

Feedback

At WeldWins, we know we aren't perfect which is why we're always looking for ways to improve. You can help us do better by taking 2 minutes to fill out our simple feedback form.

Any and all feedback is welcome. It could be a complaint, an idea, or even just a comment, we'll always be grateful to hear what you think.

Readers like you also liked:

Mastering MIG Welding - A Comprehensive Guide

April 28, 2024

15 min read

Disclaimer: The content appearing on this webpage is for informational purposes only. We always try to provide you with the most accurate general information. However, WeldWins makes no representation or warranty of any kind, be it expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or validity of the information. Please refer to our Disclaimer page to learn more.

WeldWins

Copyright © WeldWins 2024. All Rights Reserved.

Navigate

  • Home Page
  • About
  • Support Us
  • Categories

  • Without You, WeldWins would not exist. Some of our pages contain referral links, and if you follow these links and make a qualified purchase we may earn a commission. Consider visiting our Support Us page to learn more.

    As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from any qualifying purchases.