10 Best MIG Welder Under 500$ 2023 - Reviews & Buying Guide

10 Best MIG Welder Under 500$ 2023 - Reviews & Buying Guide

Last updated: 8 December, 2022

Models Considered 10 Models Considered
Hours of Research 62 Hours of Research
Experts Interviewed 8 Experts Interviewed
Reviews Analyzed 170 Reviews Analyzed
Was your last welding job a disaster because you faced metal burn through; could not get a good arc start; or there was too much sputtering resulting in an imperfect weld? By using one of the 10 best MIG welder under 500, you can resolve these issues without investing a huge sum.

Some of these best rated MIG welder under 500 come with the dual voltage feature, giving you a tool which can give you different output current ranges. Thus, you can work with different metals without worrying about buying an expensive heavy-duty welder.

10 Best MIG Welder Under 500 – Flux-Cored Wire or Gas Shield

Below is a quick comparison of the basic features of these 10 best MIG welder under 500.

Editor choice
DEKOPRO 110/220V MMA - 160A ARC Welder Machine With Electrode Holder

DEKOPRO abides by its low-cost and high-performance brand promise and makes sure the same is delivered to its customers.

Read Our Review
10
WoScoreTM
?
Premium Choice
Forney Easy Weld 261, 140 FC-i - 120V Powerful, Lightweight, And Portable Welder

Forney, a home-based business that started in 1932, continues to develop.

Read Our Review
9.9
WoScoreTM
?
Best Choice
Display4top Portable No Gas MIG 130 PLUS – Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine

If you are looking for a highly portable MIG welder for flexibility in working in smaller areas then this welder by Display4top is an ideal choice.

Read Our Review
9.8
WoScoreTM
?
Best Quality
MIG155GSV 155 AMP INVERTER – Compact, Versatile, Adjustable

The WeldPro MIG welder is one multifunctional welder that you need for your welding work.

Read Our Review
9.7
WoScoreTM
?
Best Budget
TOOLIOM 200A MIG Welder 3 In 1 – Multifunctional, Voltage Auto-adjusting, And Portable

Are you just a beginner and looking for a MIG welder? The Tooliom welder is just right for your needs.

Read Our Review
9.6
WoScoreTM
?
Best Performance
SUNGOLDPOWER MIG Welder 140A – Versatile Use, Adjustable, And Durable

Want a welder that adjusts according to your working? The SungoldPower welder is one that is simple to operate.

Read Our Review
9.5
WoScoreTM
?
Top Pick
Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder – Compact, Simple-Use, And Adjustable

The Lincoln Electric is an MIG welder that can be used for repairs around the house for enthusiasts and hobbyists for DIY projects.

Read Our Review
9.4
WoScoreTM
?
Top Quality
YESWELDER Digital MIG-205DS – Reliable, Automatic, And Powerful Performance
9.3
WoScoreTM
?
Top Choice
Hobart 500572 Handler 100 - Easy To Use, Safe And Secure

This Hobart welder is seamless to use as a beginner and for personal use too.

Read Our Review
9.2
WoScoreTM
?
Best Overall
Suncoo 130 Mig Welder Flux Core – Portable And Lightweight

This SUNCOO MIG Welder is gasless. The new version has two colors black and grey.

Read Our Review
9.1
WoScoreTM
?

1. DEKOPRO 110/220V MMA - 160A ARC Welder Machine With Electrode Holder - Editor choice

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Uses advanced IGBT technology
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Stable current
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: 40/60 % duty cycle
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Leading control feature
Check Price

DEKOPRO abides by its low-cost and high-performance brand promise and makes sure the same is delivered to its customers. Products by DEKOPRO are perfect for DIYers and at-home tool enthusiasts who require customized high-end tools. 

This 110/220V Welder by DEKOPRO has a sturdy design. Featuring a high-intensity build having durable and structurally strong characteristics. Moreover, it has a solid handle having multiple rock-solid frames making it easy to handle and store. 

It boasts advanced IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors) inverter technology with a distinctive control mode, improving its reliability. As a result, making it suitable for professional as well as daily household work. 

Furthermore, this MMA welder has the capability of welding cast iron, mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, weld steel, etc. Thus, it can be used to weld different metal materials easily, making it a perfect tool for beginners and welding professionals alike.

Its portable design allows you to easily carry it anywhere with its solid carrying handle. Also, its compact design adds more to your convenience. Thus, you can transport it wherever you want and use it almost anywhere. 

Additionally, it has a fully muted high-performance and efficient fan along with an instant cooling feature. Therefore, promoting structural heat dissipation. Also, its control system is synchronous providing a protection mechanism.

It also features a leading control function which makes it capable of preventing overload situations. Its closed-loop control makes its output voltage stable. Its voltage precisely matches and adapts to the current ensuring current stability for added safety and protection.

Hence, this 160A MMA arc welder by DEKOPRO enables you to achieve a perfect professional-grade finish in your welding tasks. It is highly energy-efficient in reducing the damage of Iron and Copper, eventually increasing the frequency of welding and energy conservation.

Its highly-efficient and low-cost technology makes it ideal for various purposes. For instance, plumbing work, automobile manufacturing, metal processing, site work, strict construction work, high-quality welding, and various thin steel soldering processes. Once you buy this welder you will easily experience the advantages of MMA welding firsthand.

The only thing you need to be careful about is its electrode holder as it might break while welding if not used properly. 

Pros
  • Energy-efficient 40/60 % duty cycle
  • Has multiple uses
  • Uses advanced IGBT technology
  • Stable current
  • Highly-efficient muted fan
  • Leading control feature
Cons
  • The electrode holder needs to be handled with care or it will break

2. Forney Easy Weld 261, 140 FC-i - 120V Powerful, Lightweight, And Portable Welder - Premium Choice

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: All metal rugged case
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: 1-year warranty
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: 30% duty cycle at 90Amp
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Flux-core/ gasless welding
Check Price

Forney, a home-based business that started in 1932, continues to develop and move ahead in creating welding and metalworking products. It continuously grows to provide its customers great quality products. For instance, personal protective gear, abrasives, shop tools, and welding tools.

Hence, Forney is steadfast in helping its consumers succeed irrespective of size, location, and need.

This 140 FC-i welder is one pretty impressive welder by Forney, with flux-core capability. Therefore, making this welding machine ideal for novices and welding professionals. It can be used for different purposes ranging from DIY projects, automotive work, farm and ranch, and general metal repair, fabrication, or maintenance.

In short, this MIG welder is simple to use. It makes use of 0.3 flux-core wire. Moreover, it features infinite voltage along with speed control for wire feed so that you can easily dial in a perfect weld every time. 

It is a sturdy and powerful 120V welding machine that gives an output up to 140A which is sufficient for welding mild steel equal to a ¼ inch plate.

Furthermore, it can be easily transported almost anywhere to assist you in any type of hobbyist and DIY projects. It is light in weight, weighing almost 19 pounds.

It features an all-metal rugged build that is capable of handling 2 pounds and 10 pounds spools of wire. Even though this budget-friendly welder is light in weight, yet it has a built-in fan for keeping components cool. Additionally, it boasts a thirty percent duty cycle at 90A and has a 15A-20A adapter.

It includes an integrated handle along with torch wrap, an 8-inch MIG gun, 15A-20A adapter, and an 8-inch ground clamp. Moreover, it has a 12-month warranty.

On the whole, this welding machine is ideal for all your welding needs that too keeping your budget in mind. However, since it cannot be connected to a spool gun, you cannot weld aluminum with this welder.

Pros
  • Lightweight and portable
  • 140Amp output enough for welding mild steel ¼ inch plate
  • Ease of use
  • All metal rugged case
  • 1-year warranty
  • Flux-core/ gasless welding 30% duty cycle at 90Amp
Cons
  • Only for flux-core welding, hence cannot weld aluminum

3. Display4top Portable No Gas MIG 130 PLUS – Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine - Best Choice

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Lightweight and portable
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Has an internal cooling fan
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Overload protection feature
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Includes various accessories
Check Price

If you are looking for a highly portable MIG welder for flexibility in working in smaller areas then this welder by Display4top is an ideal choice. It has a compact and portable design for ease of transportation and storage. Also, it has a convenient carrying handle for added comfort.

Display4top MIG welder makes use of convenient flux-core wire. This 110V welder has a duty cycle of 35% with an output of 30-120 Amp. Furthermore, it also has automatic thermal protection for safety making it suitable for welding aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, etc.

It features an exquisite and compact design. Its body is made up of stainless steel. Moreover, it has red paint on its exterior which is durable and ensures its longevity. Thus, you can consider purchasing this durable and strong welder for long term usage.

Additionally, it sports an overload protection feature. This feature automatically turns the welder off in case it becomes excessively hot, or when the voltage or current exceeds its range. Hence, providing an added safety feature that keeps you harmless.

Besides, it also has an internal fan that keeps the welder cool while working, to promote the dissipation of heat. 

It comes with various accessories included that you will be requiring for your welding projects. For instance a grounding clamp, a brush, a protection mask for your safety, a welding gun having an on/off switch for safety control, and various other accessories.

Taking everything into account, this welding machine is a budget-friendly option that can easily be used for a wide variety of applications like DIY home projects or general maintenance and repairing work. However, it will not be suitable for industrial and heavy-duty projects.

Pros
  • 35 % duty cycle with an output of 30-120 A
  • Easy carrying handle
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Has an internal cooling fan
  • Overload protection feature
  • Sturdy and durable built
  • Includes various accessories
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty use

4. MIG155GSV 155 AMP INVERTER – Compact, Versatile, Adjustable - Best Quality

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Energy-efficient
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Stable wire feed
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Adjustable wire feed
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Deep welding
Check Price

The WeldPro MIG welder is one multifunctional welder that you need for your welding work. This is because the welder can be truly versatile adjusting to different electricity inputs as well as different uses.

First and foremost, the welder is very compact making it portable. Therefore, storage and traveling with the welder is quite easy. Furthermore, it gives efficient output with limited electricity input. It can run on 220-230 volts as well as 110-115 volts which is commendable. At a 220 volts input, you can weld a 0.25 inches mild steel quite easily. 

Talking about electrical input, the welder has a protection feature from overheating and overcurrent input. The welder is designed with an IGBT inverter, so it remains protected, therefore, increasing the longevity of the welder. 

Not just this, with optional accessories, the welder can be converted into a TIG welder too! Therefore, for jobs that require strong welding, this welder can be used quite effectively. Furthermore, it can do the tasks of MIG welding, stick welding, and flux-core welding. Now that’s versatility in such a compact welder!

Also, another notable feature is adjustable heat and wire speed settings which are not present in many other machines. It allows you to adjust the speed according to the work and your own preferences. The wire feeding settings range from 78 to 472 inches per minute which is a wide range to adjust your settings. 

Additionally, it also has two modes of 2T and 4T. So, when you have to weld for a longer duration, the 4T mode refrains you from straining your hand due to holding the trigger for a longer duration. It also helps if you are welding in a difficult position and cannot hold down the trigger. That’s a useful function indeed!

It has an easier arc initialization and less spattering compared to other welding machines. Also, its high cycle duty gives greater performance and completes the welding job in no time. Its welding pool is deep which allows you to efficiently do the job. The wire feed is stable which adds to the efficiency of your work. 

Furthermore, it does not have the hassle of assembling the parts. It comes pre assembled and ready to use. One final point that makes this welder a great value for the price is its 3-year warranty! 

However, some might find that the spring that holds the spool of wire might be too tight constricting the wire feed. However, you can adjust the spring to assure that the welder gets the wire feed continuously so your work is not hindered.

Pros
  • Energy-efficient
  • 3-year Warranty
  • Deep welding
  • Adjustable wire feed
  • Stable wire feed
  • Versatile Modes 2T and 4T
Cons
  • Spool holding spring might be too tight

5. TOOLIOM 200A MIG Welder 3 in 1 – Multifunctional, Voltage Auto-adjusting, and Portable - Best Budget

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Wire-feed adjustment
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Portable
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: 5-in-1 functions
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Overheating protection
Check Price

Are you just a beginner and looking for a MIG welder? The Tooliom welder is just right for your needs. Initially, you might have faced some issues with the adjustment of voltage values if you began with an expert-level machine. 

This welder automatically adjusts the voltage through software control. There is no display of the voltages as well, so you are not confused or worried about the voltage. 

However, if you are an expert, it includes a voltage knob through which voltage can be micro-adjusted. It helps in fine-tuning to reduce splatter and increase welding efficiency. You can also adjust the wire speed according to your requirements. 

Furthermore, you can not only do MIG welding, but also gas MIG, MMA, flux, MIG, and lift TIG with the welder. Now that’s the versatility that allows you to adjust according to the job at hand. So, five functions in one! That’s amazing, right? However, for TIG, you would need to purchase additional accessories that are not included in the basic kit. 

Even selecting the welding method isn’t difficult. You can select the type of welding you want with one button and viola; you’re set. The welding wire diameter that’s compatible with the machine is 0.3 inches if it’s a solid core or 0.35 inches if it’s a flux core. 

The wire feeder is heavy duty and can accommodate 4 inches or 8 inches diameter MIG wire rolls, also known as the D100 and the D200. Additionally, it can weld a 4mm mild steel plate. 

Also, for a longer welding duration or shorter, you can switch between the modes. The 2T mode is for precise welding and shorter welding cycles. However, the 4T mode will allow you to free your fingers from the strain of holding down the trigger. This is especially useful for a longer duration of welding.

Talking about longer duration, the machine ought to heat up if you weld for long. However, the heavy-duty fan helps in cooling down the machine. The inner side of the machine also comes equipped with overheating protection! 

Also, you can connect it to the regular power source in the household giving 110 volts, or change it to a 220 volts circuit as well. It has an easy-grip aluminum handle which makes the welder portable as well!

The voltage value is not displayed which might be an issue for some. If you are an expert-level welder, this might seem a bit off to you in the beginning. However, looking at the performance of the welder, you will adjust to this feature as well. 

Pros
  • 5-in-1 functions
  • Overheating protection
  • Voltage micro-adjustment
  • Portable
Cons
  • Voltage is not displayed which might be a hassle for experienced welders

6. SUNGOLDPOWER MIG Welder 140A – Versatile Use, Adjustable, and Durable - Best Performance

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Adjustable wire feed
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: High-quality wire-feeder
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Adjustable voltage
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Minimizes noise pollution
Check Price

Want a welder that adjusts according to your working? The SungoldPower welder is one that is simple to operate. 

This is because it allows you to adjust the voltage quite easily. Not just voltage, the welder allows you to set the wire feed for setting welding parameters quite easily. Therefore, giving you great welding results. 

Different jobs require different welding needs, the adjustment can allow you to adjust the thickness of the weld, therefore, allowing you to do the job precisely. 

Furthermore, the wire setting does not waste gas because of its easy feed wire inch. In the end, the wire is burned back so it is ready to use for next time.

Also, it enables welding flux without gas. Furthermore, in the case of welding wires, it uses gas. The inverter technology allows multiple functions in this single welder. 

Multiple uses and functionality mean more work. For this, the welder allows usage of different voltage inputs (110 and 220 volts). In case of heating, the fan cools it and the inner side of the machine is protected in case of overheating. 

The working frequency is such that it minimizes noise pollution. This is because of the frequency being beyond the audio range. 

Furthermore, the wire feeder is of high quality making the welding process stable, and the welding more efficient. It can feed on 0.023 to 0.039 inches of solid as well as the flux-core wire. The large diameter variance is perfect for the welder to accommodate different types of wires. 

So, whether you are welding stainless steel, iron, mild steel, carbon steel, or other materials made up of metal, this welder is compatible with all types of jobs. The jobs include repairing, maintenance, outdoor repairs, road and farm equipment, and rusting metals. One welder, multiple uses, now that’s versatile. 

Since the transformer technology efficiently converts voltage input into welding performance, it makes the welding reliable as well as durable. 

Also, the welder is completely portable which allows you to move while doing the job or go to the place where the welding job is required. 

If you are a beginner in this field, I suggest that you take someone’s help in setting up the welder initially. This is because it might be difficult to set up in the beginning. However, once you get the hang of it, it works like a charm. 

Pros
  • Versatility
  • Durable performance
  • Adjustable voltage
  • Adjustable wire feed
  • High-quality wire-feeder
  • Minimizes noise pollution
Cons
  • Might be difficult to set up initially if you are not a professional.

7. Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder – Compact, Simple-Use, and Adjustable - Top Pick

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Safe
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Adjustable
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Complete kit
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Warranty
Check Price

The Lincoln Electric is an MIG welder that can be used for repairs around the house for enthusiasts and hobbyists for DIY projects. This is because this lightweight and handy welder is quite simple to use. Firstly, it doesn’t require any shielding gas, so you are free from that hassle. 

Furthermore, the wire speed can be controlled to let out the amount that you need according to the job type. It can run on household outlets of 120 volts giving an output of 20 amperes. 

The voltage range as well as the wire speed can be controlled. So, you can precisely run the welder according to the job’s requirements. 

Also, on plugging in the machine, the safety feature called the cold contractor enables the wire to be electrically cold. This allows overheating until the trigger is pressed to begin working. Once you begin, the fan allows cooling of the welder so you can work freely without having to worry about it being overheated. 

Additionally, it can use both MIG as well as flux-cored wires. It can accommodate 0.025 diameters of MIG solid wire in a 2-pound spool. Also, it can accommodate a 0.035 diameter flux wire of a 1-pound spool. It has three contact tips each of the two diameters that it can accommodate. 

Apart from the tips, the kit comes with a hand-shield, lens, hose, gas nozzle, gas regulator, clamp, work cable, and a spool of flux-cored wire. Therefore, this makes a great starter kit for beginners because of the accessories that it includes. 

Furthermore, the welding thickness is 1/8th inch and 24 gauge which is perfect for small jobs and light welding on mild steel. 

Also, the manufacturer gives a one-year warranty which is quite generous. So, you don’t need to worry about the performance. 

However, since it is designed for light work around the house, it would not perform well in jobs that require heavy-duty welding. Though for light repairs around the house and DIY projects, this welder is a steal at this price. Therefore, it doesn’t have the multifunctionality required for professional use. 

Pros
  • Complete kit
  • Simple use
  • Warranty
  • Adjustable
  • Safe
Cons
  • Not for professional use
  • Not multifunctional

8. YESWELDER Digital MIG-205DS – Reliable, Automatic, and Powerful Performance - Top Quality

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Good quality
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Multifunctional welding
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Digital display
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Extra accessories
Check Price

Yesweleder Digital is a multi-purpose welder. It has an automatic synergic control system that incorporates the change of voltage. Also, adjustments to the speed of wire feed by the amperes or choosing altered thicknesses.

The weight of this welder is 33lbs and the dimensions are 18.5x14.2x7.9inches.

Moreover, it has the synergic controller expertise of technology IGBT inverter which displays minimum 30 to maximum 205 AMP in a solid unit consisting of 33 lbs. This makes it having a stable quality and consistent performance. The supply voltage it possesses is 110v/ 220v, 50/ 60 Hertz.

In addition to this, it will go best with hardware related work, modification of cars, decoration purposes, and maintenance for factories and many pieces of equipment. They also are proficient in doing other sorts of welding.

Likewise, it has a design which includes the selection from one button to choose welding modes according to requirements like MIG, Stick, Gas or Gasless, Lift Tig. They also have 2T and 4T design for simple work, spot joining, and for non-stop long- term work and relieves your bits.

Furthermore, this unit can handle up to 2 to 10 lbs of wire rolls. For gas MIG, it’s suggested to use .030’’ which is 0.8mm, and .035” which is 0.9mm. And for gasless it’s advised to use .035” which is 0.9mm of wire.

Besides, it can also run electrodes sticks. Also, a ground clamp and a stinger are included with this machine for this operation to carry. It can weld electrodes 7018/6011 at 220v on 5/32’’. However, the Lift TIG remains elective as you will need to buy an extra torch lift which is not included. But the flux wire is existing.

So, what does the whole package hold for you?

It contains MIG gun10’, Electrode holder10’, a quick connector Cable 35t50, Earth clamp 10’, gas hose American, additional 1 contact tip .030’and.035’, an adapter of 110v to 220v, brush, and hammer.

In future, you will have to buy an additional torch lift for the flux wire for an extra performance. 

Pros
  • Good quality
  • High in power
  • Extra accessories
  • Digital display
  • Multifunctional welding
Cons
  • If not used carefully, it won't provide the favorite results.
  • A lot of parts can make you confused.

9. Hobart 500572 Handler 100 - Easy to Use, Safe and Secure - Top Choice

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Easy to use
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Can run on a small initiator making it handy
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Good for home and personal use
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Affordable
Check Price

This Hobart welder is seamless to use as a beginner and for personal use too. Perfect to repair and maintain your car and household items. It runs on the input of 115v and welds up the 4.8mm or 3/16 inches of materials like flux-cored and steel only.

Moreover, it has a broad window for operating with each wire, with easy and quick adjustments for the selection thickness and joints. The four voltages of the range feature allows you to change the arc of altered thicknesses. Also, it has a 20% cycle for duty and a 30 to 100 amperes range.

In addition to this, it has an assembly spool hub that provides accommodations for 4 to 8 spools. That bids more elasticity to use for big or small rolls of wire whichever suits the welding needs. Well, isn’t that a great thing to look for?

Furthermore, there is an integral contactor for the safety determination keeping the electrical wire cool until the trigger is dragged. This quality makes it easy to use and handle. And also, good enough for light manufacture and patch-up!

So the package includes that unit itself, attached wires, and a gun with a liner .030 to .035 inches.

Therefore, it is not suitable for extensive repairing objects.

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Good for home and personal use
  • Can run on a small initiator making it handy
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Doesn’t fit for long-term or heavy fusing

10. Suncoo 130 Mig Welder Flux Core – Portable and Lightweight - Best Overall

Features
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Wide applications
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Good for personal use
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Easy to carry
  • ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: Easy to use
Check Price

This SUNCOO MIG Welder is gasless. The new version has two colors black and grey. With a solid, stainless steel figure, attractive design, and painted with long-lasting black color. It’s rust free and has life-long durability and strength.

So, if you have recently developed an interest in welding work then this is a good piece to give a try. 

Moreover, this being user-friendly benefits you attain a professional finish to get progress with the welding operation. It can be taken anywhere and everywhere due to its portable quality. Also, it's easy to use and operate.

Furthermore, it works conveniently with the wire of Flux-cored 0.6 and 0.9mm. It releases gas of metal-inert when welding. And averts oxidization to the repaired part. This has a Control Speed Variable Feed which adjusts the current flow with 4 switches for Max, Min, and1/2.

Also, has a varied feature adjusting for the speed of wire feeding revolving knob up to 10 levels. A torch with continuous safety control. Similarly, it contains space for storage and easy, to begin with, perfect combining work for iron, steel, and repair work.

Besides, with more corresponding provisions it has 2 air- outlets to help reduce heat overindulgence. Also, has an American Standard trio ground flex and thermal automatic safeguard. With these qualities, it makes it very unique and appealing to use.

Thus, the package has a welding machine, a welder gun, a mask, a welding cable, 2 fuses, a brush, 2 columns, and a user guide.

Yet, it won’t help you with bigger welding projects like for factories and auto parts, sadly!

Pros
  • Wide applications
  • Easy to use
  • Good for personal use
  • Enhanced safety features
  • User friendly
  • Easy to carry
Cons
  • Not suitable for factories and auto parts repairing

Buying Guide

To take care of your welding tasks yourself, without spending a fortune on them, you should opt for the best MIG welder under 500. Not only does it save your money, but these offer various other benefits too. 

Some of these are:

  • You can get your welding job done quickly and neatly. Since these contain gas shielding, spatter is limited and you do not waste your time in clearing up during and after the welding task. 

  • You can use these even if you are a beginner.

  • The user has greater control.

  • You can use these with so many different metals, hence, these are versatile.

  • Produces a good quality weld

But before you go welder picking from one of the top rated MIG welder under 500, you should be clear on what you are looking for. Ask yourself the following questions, and these will take you one step ahead:

  • What materials are you planning to work with? 

  • What is your skill level?+

  • Will you use it outdoors or inside your house?

  • How long are you going to use it in one go?

Once you have thought along these lines, you will be better able to pick on the features that best suit your needs. We have summarized some of these features in this guide to give you a fair idea about these MIG welders.

Best Table Saw

The Basics - Power, Volts, and Amperage

When we are talking about MIG welders, it is not just about how powerful your tool is. The voltage and the amps are an important consideration. It is the combination of these three which makes a welder effective.

Picking on the voltage, you have a choice between 120V and 240V. The main constraint here is the price. Most of the welders under 500 are 120V. Also, welders with a high voltage are more suitable for DIY tasks around the house.

The required amperage depends on the thickness of the metal that you are working with. With 110/120V, you can expect an output of 140A. And this combination is powerful enough to weld a steel sheet with a thickness of a quarter inch. For thicker metals, you need a greater amp welder.

Also, some of these come with dual voltage settings. As a result, you get a wide range of output current and, hence, you can work with many metals.

The Duty Cycle – Your Uninterrupted Working Time

Duty cycle is a measurement of the time for which you can use the welder, without stopping. After this duration, it starts to get heated up, and you need to stop and let it cool

It is mentioned in percentage, and dividing this by 10 minutes tells you how long you can use the welder without stopping.

For instance, a 30% duty cycle indicates that you can use the machine for three minutes without interruption.

Those with a high amperage will have a shorter duty cycle. This is because a higher amp level means more heat and power is transferred and, hence, your tool will heat up in a short time. 

Inbuilt Safety Features Are Essential

Since welders are all about running on power and heating up during the process, safety features are a key design component. It should be protected against overheating as well as power surges and an unexpected spike in the voltage.

You should also check if it comprises a guard in case a short circuit occurs. Some MIG welders are also fitted with fans for cooling them down quickly. 

Do You Want It to Be Portable?

It depends on your usage situation. If you are planning to use it at home or in your workshop, then you do not have to worry much about its weight and size.

Conversely, if the nature of your tasks is such that you will have to carry it around, then the weight is a critical point to be considered. Not only should it be very heavy, but there are some models which include a carrying handle to make it more portable. 

An innovation is the welders that work on the inverter technology. Mostly these are the small ones that are used at homes, for small scale tasks and are lightweight. You can move them around conveniently, and these perform well too.

Flux-Cored vs Gas Shield

A MIG welder can use either a gas shield or the flux wire. The former gives you better results in terms of the neatness and the quality of the weld, but it is more expensive. Also, gas shields cannot be used outdoors, as the wind blows away the gas. 

Flux wire does not work well with thin metals, but costs less and can be used in open-air areas too.

Using a Spool Gun

These add precision to your welding tasks. Not only do they give you a better result, but they will save you time by preventing wires from tangling around the rolls. 

Accessories Included in the Package

Almost all the MIG welders available come with some accessories which are essential for use when you are working with these. The important ones are:

  • A gas cylinder - the type of gas can vary, depending on your welder. Usually, carbon dioxide and argon are preferred.

  • To control the gas flow and monitor its levels in the cylinder, you would need a regulator.

  • A torch or a flashlight is vital.

  • A helmet, mask, and protective glasses are crucial to keep you safe from the sparks.

 Choose the one which includes most of these instead of purchasing these separately.

 Taking Care of Your Welder 

A well-maintained welder will give you better results and stay with you for a long time, giving you a higher return on the money you invested in it. To keep it working for a long time, do the following:

  • Keep it covered to protect it from dust. 

  • The drive rolls should be brushed and cleaned frequently.

  • Spatter sticks on the tips every time you use the welder. If you don't clean it regularly, it would keep building up and hinder the flow of gas. Therefore, it is better to use a nozzle for covering the tip.

  • Check the diffuser for any clogged spatter by removing the cone, and getting rid of all that is stuck inside.

FAQ

Can I use an MIG welder for aluminum?

You can but it won't be an easy task. Aluminum can burn through easily. Thus, if using a MIG welder, it is recommended that you use argon.

Is it necessary to use a regulator?

It helps you save money spent on buying gas because it controls the flow of gas. Also, you can stay aware of when you would need the next refill. Pick the welder which includes the regulator in the package.

Which is better, MIG or TIG welding?

TIG uses tungsten and works faster. Therefore, these are more appropriate for users who are more experienced at welding. For beginners, MIG is a better option.

Why do I see holes in my weld?

It is most likely due to porosity. When the gas gets trapped inside the metal and a sufficient flow is not maintained, you will face this issue.

Conclusion:

If you have a tight budget then you must go through this list of the best MIG welder under 500 to assist you in finalizing your decision. Whether you are an amateur or a welding professional, it is highly significant to spend some time researching the various types of welding machines that are available in the market at different prices. 

By and large, the MMA 110/220V welder by DECKPRO is the perfect choice for any sort of welding project. It makes use of its highly efficient and low-cost technology to deliver great performance allowing you to achieve a professional finish always.

THE TEAM THAT WORKED ON THIS REVIEW

Adriana

Adriana

(Writer)

Elyse

Elyse

(Senior Editor)

Jennifer

Jennifer

(Content Writer)

Merry

Merry

(Research Writer)

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