Top 10 Best Inverter MIG Welders 2023 – Tips and Guides

Are you planning to buy a welder anytime soon? Have you been searching online for a great welder but can’t seem to make up your mind because you are overwhelmed by the huge number of welders in the market? This is probably the best report you’ll come across. We are about to help you pick a fantastic welder with these best inverter MIG welder reviews.

However, for us to help you pick a great welder, we need you to do something for us. Read this report to the end. That’s all we need from you.  We assure you that you’ll be glad you were able to read it to the end.

Let’s explain why this report is important to you. We went in search of inverter welders and got so many of them. Our team began to test every one of them one after the other and took down notes on what we observed. Comparing their features, we narrowed the list down to the best ten that we are about to give some comprehensive inverter MIG welder reviews.

If you were conducting the search, you’d probably make do with the information you get online. By virtue of our experience, we observed that not all the information you see online is accurate. Some of them can be misleading.

This is why you should appreciate our report. We are not relying on only online information. This report is based mostly on what we found out about each of the inverter welders.

What is inverter MIG welding?

Inverter MIG welding is simply the art of welding metals with an inverter MIG welder. And what is an inverter MIG welder? It is an electronic piece of equipment that converts AC input to DC output and works with DC output. It has a way of reducing its power consumption.

It is gaining popularity fast because it has several advantages over the conventional MIG welding machine.

Our Picks of 10 Best Mig Inverter Welding Machines:

1. Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Inverter MIG Welder

First of all, this is the best MIG welder on our list. It has better features than the others.  We have listed the features that made us select it below. We found this welding machine quite easy to use. Any welding machine that non-welding experts like us can handle is quite easy to use.

It produces clean welds all the time. You can change your welding process quickly with its 3-position switch. One thing you can’t take away from this device is its ruggedness. This machine can withstand heavy usage. Its metal casing is one of the reasons for its toughness. The unit comes with a 1-year warranty.

In the pack, you’ll find an 8-inch ground clamp, an 8-inch electrode holder, and a 10-inch gun. This machine’s got infinite voltage, and it gives smooth control over the weld. We also noticed that it powers up so fast. Weighing 25.8 pounds makes it quite portable. We checked its current Amazon rating, and we are glad that it is 4.4 stars. The product speaks for itself. Honestly, these inverter MIG welder reviews won’t be complete without this very machine.

Features

2. Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder

This welding machine also produces high-quality welds. We need to thank Hobart for supporting this product with a 3-year warranty. However, most users didn’t need the warranty since the device never developed any fault within the first 3 years of purchase. This implies that the device is durable. An appliance that doesn’t break down in 3 years rocks.

The best thing about a warranty is that it shows the level of confidence a manufacturer has in its product. The device is pretty portable. Also, we were able to use this machine quite easily.

You should be able to set it up in a few minutes. The best feature of this workhorse is its seven voltage settings. So, you’ll have several voltage setting options.

The machine takes dual voltage inputs. Whether your outlets give 115V or they do 230V, this welder will swim easily in both oceans. Its Amazon rating of 4.5 stars confirms the quality of the welding machine.

Features

3. SUNGOLDPOWER 200Amp Inverter MIG Welder

This machine weighs 44 pounds, so you can still be able to move it around. Its quality is fair. It is sturdy and durable. You’ll also love its high amperage. It is easy to set up and even easier to use. It can weld through ¼ -inch thick plate. This device is versatile.

It is suitable for different types of metals like carbon steel, iron, aluminum, mild steel, stainless steel, and other metals. Its pack contains 71-inch cable with electrode holder, 47-inch cable with earth clamp, MIG torch, and a few other components. To cap it all, it has a current Amazon rating of 4.2 stars.

Features

4. Weldpro 200 Amp Inverter Multi-Process Welder

This is another fantastic welding machine that gives a wonderful welding experience. You’ll love its carry handle that makes it easier to carry around. Also, the casing is well ventilated for adequate airflow. This prevents overheating. Furthermore, its digital display unit gives you the necessary figures on its voltage and amperage. It looks simple to operate, and indeed, it is easy to understand.

The welder also produces neat welds without slag. We’ll like to talk about its versatility too. This machine can weld different types of metals. While it works well with a spool gun, it does not come with one. If you need to use a spool gun, you may have to buy one separately.

When you buy this device, you’ll enjoy its 2-year factory warranty. The pack contains a power adapter, flow meter, gas hose, earth clamp, quick connector, 10-foot cable, electrode holder, TIG torch, and MIG torch. It weighs 30.4 pounds, and that’s why it is portable. Most of all, users have given it an Amazon rating of 4.7 stars. That sums everything up.

Features

5. Amico MTS-205 205 Amp Inverter MIG Welder

This is a 3-in-1 welding machine that offers TIG, MIG, and stick functions. Also, it is capable of welding up to ½ inch thick metal. Being versatile, it can handle cast iron, copper, stainless steel, weld steel, mild steel, aluminum, alloy, and other types of metals. Also, it gets along well with flux cord wire, solid wire, and aluminum wire.

We have tried it, and we assure you that it is very easy to operate. You can use the machine, even if you are not a pro. You can adjust the settings of the device to the thickness of the metal you want to weld.Another thing we love about this machine is that it welds with fewer spatters. Offering voltage inputs of 100-240V means you can plug it into virtually all power outlets.

With an in-built cooling fan, chances of overheating occurring are very slim. The device is protected from overloads, high current, low voltage, high voltage, and voltage fluctuation. You’ll be glad to hear that an automatic control gas solenoid valve is already in it.

Since it is generator-friendly, you can use it with any inverter. It comes with a 1-year warranty in some select stores.  Finally, it weighs 25 pounds and has a rating of 4.1 stars.

Features

6. ARCRAFT Inverter Flux Core 140 Welder

This machine costs $179, and that makes it very affordable. It is one of the most cost-effective welders in the market. We got to appreciate the price more when we saw its output. Nothing about the machine shows that its cost is low. You’ll also see how sturdy and rugged it is.

Also, its case is well-ventilated. We also love its weight of 15 pounds. That takes its portability to another level. You can easily handle it even if you’re not a professional welder. Furthermore, the device has several safety features that you’ll love. It is protected from overloads and overheating.

It is also necessary to commend the welding quality of this device. This unit produces clean welds. With zero setup, you can use it right out of the box. It has an Amazon rating of 3.8 stars.

Features

7. Forney Easy Weld 299 125FC Flux Core Welder

This device is good for beginners because it is easy to operate. It is compact and fairly portable. While a weight of 51 pounds may not be impressive, it is not too bad for a welding machine of its caliber. We tried it with a couple of generators and found out that it gets along so well with generators.

It produces clean and strong welds. It can weld materials that are up to ¼ inches thick. In spite of its weight, you can easily move it around with its strong carry handle. The device is also well-ventilated. Some of its users have confirmed its durability. Although it has a user manual, you can also access its YouTube video guides.

Also, it has two voltage settings. In its pack, you’ll find welding gloves, helmet, leather driver gloves, and wire scratch brush. You’ll also love its 6-month warranty and its Amazon rating of 4.1 stars.

Features

8. Goplus MIG 130 Inverter MIG Welder

The first thing we noticed about this device is its long power cord. It has a 6-foot power cord. Its welding gun is also longer than 5 feet. The plastic handle makes it easy to carry it around. Its sturdy frame is an indication of its durability and toughness. This machine will withstand heavy usage.

We also love its four heat settings that give users numerous setting options.  Its thermal protection is worthy of mention too. The machine is protected from overloads, high voltage, and low voltage. In case it has become dark in your worksite, and you’re yet to finish your welding job. Its in-built torch is all you need.

Since it weighs only 35 pounds, you can easily move it around. Its current Amazon rating is 4.0 stars. The device is easy to use, even for beginners. Also, we noticed that its body is made of stainless steel.

Features

9. RazorWeld ViperMig 180amp Inverter Mig Welder

This machine has been able to earn an Amazon rating of 5 stars out of 5. The rating indicates that the machine is perfect. With its dual-voltage inputs, you can plug it into a 115V-outlet or a 220V-outlet. Also, you can set it up easily.

Besides, this machine has several safety features like its protection from overloads, overheating, low voltage, and high voltage. Also, this welding machine can be powered with a generator. When you see its welds, you’ll stop wondering why it has gotten a perfect rating of 5 stars.

The unit is also versatile. It can weld different types of metals. We also need to let you know that it has a ventilated and sturdy casing. Also, it has a 1-year warranty.

Features

10. Everlast PowerMIG 200 200amp Inverter MIG Welder

This welder looks simple, and indeed, it is very easy to use. Weighing 35 pounds puts it in the range of portable inverter welders. We love its ventilated casing and a cooling fan. You may not need to worry about overheating. The device is also protected from overloads, high voltage, and low voltage. It produces nice welds.

An Amazon rating of 4.6 stars speaks volumes about the quality of the device. Some of its users have also mentioned its toughness and durability.

Features

Are Inverter MIG Welders Any Good?

Yes, of course. They are great. They have several benefits over conventional welders. Some of the advantages have been mentioned below. One of them is lower power consumption. This is why metal fabricators and DIYers are shifting from conventional welders to inverter welders.

What is the Advantage of an Inverter Welder?

The appropriate question should have been, “What are the advantages of an inverter welder?”  This is because they have more than one benefit. The first advantage is that inverter welders are able to multiply their voltage input by ten times or more. That way, they can reduce their power consumption. Also, they are lighter and more portable than regular welders. So, you can easily carry your inverter welder around for outside jobs.

Another benefit is accuracy. Since you can control the performance of an inverter welder better, you’ll get higher accuracy from it. Because an inverter welder has a built-in cooling fan, it does not radiate, and it does not dissipate heat like normal welders. To sum it up, you can say welding is easier done with an inverter welder, and the result is better in all terms.

What Is the Difference Between Inverter and MIG Welder?

An inverter welding machine converts AC power to a lower voltage output. It could convert 240V AC power to 20V DC output. This is because it uses electronic parts to transform power. Furthermore, an inverter welder increases the primary power supply frequency from about 50Hz up to about 20,000 – 100,000Hz. Some electronic buttons in the device are responsible for its power conversion. That’s why the size of its transformer is much smaller.

On the other hand, conventional welders require a huge power supply. In fact, they need to be connected to the main power supply. This type of welder allows users to choose the output current by moving a winding away from or closer to a secondary winding. Also, a conventional welder can move a magnetic shunt inside and out of the transformer’s core.

Due to their different designs, inverter MIG welders offer 93% power efficiency, while regular welders can only offer about 60% power efficiency.

Can You Weld Aluminum with an Inverter Welder?

Yes, it is possible to weld aluminum with an inverter welder. Since an inverter welder can generate AC, it can weld aluminum easily. Remember, its arc voltage never really goes through zero. So, the AC arc is more stable. Furthermore, the arc is able to remove oxides from the surface of aluminum metals, and that makes welding even easier. While other metals are welded with DC current, aluminum is welded with AC current.

Inverter MIG Welder Vs. Transformer MIG Welder:

When it comes to inverter VS transformer MIG welder, it is a little difficult to say one is better than the other. In fact, both of them have their strengths and flaws. So, we will say it is a matter of suitability. We will discuss their differences so that you can choose the one that is suitable for you.

1. In terms of portability

Inverter MIG welders are smaller and more compact than their transformer counterparts. So, if you will be moving your welder around, you’ll be better off with an inverter welder because it will be more portable.

2. In terms of welding depth

Transformer welders are heavier and can handle heavy-duty welding tasks. So, if you will be working on heavy welding projects, you have no choice but to go for a transformer MIG welder.

They attain welding miles that inverter welders can’t just match. This is why we are quite reluctant to recommend inverter welders to professional welding technicians.In terms of efficiency

Here, we will give it to inverter welders.  They consume less power, and that makes them more efficient. According to a reliable source, they can save up to 10% of your monthly electricity bill. So, if efficiency and stability top your priority list, an inverter welder will cut it for you.

3. In terms of durability

This is a difficult one. Transformer welders have been around for more than 50 years. Technically, the technology has proved its longevity, while the appliances have also proved to be durable. Now, you may be wondering why we said it is a difficult one.

The inverter welder technology is not so old. So, the technology hasn’t proved its longevity.  That does not mean that the technology is durable either.

Of course, this has rubbed off on the appliances. If you say inverter welders are durable, then you should agree that transformer welders are even more durable. We have to give this one to both of them.

4. In terms of cost

By cost, we are talking about both purchase cost and maintenance cost. As a matter of fact, transformer welders are less expensive to buy. However, they consume more power, and they are more expensive to maintain.

On the other hand, inverter welders are more costly to buy, but they are less expensive to maintain. In fact, they have little or no maintenance cost. In the long run, you’ll spend more on a transformer welder than on an inverter welder.

To wrap up our piece on inverter VS transformer MIG welder, we will say both of them are great, and they both have their ups and downs. Choose the one whose ups are more significant to you.

How to Use Inverter Welder? 5 Easy Steps

1. Plug the welder

The first step is to restrict anyone from coming to the area. This will prevent anyone from barging into you suddenly when you’re welding. You could get startled and make a blunder. Thereafter, you can now plug the inverter welder.

2. Strike the arc

This step does not require much explanation. Strike the arc.

3. Prepare the metal to be welded

Now place the metal that you want to weld in the right position. Consider your comfort as well.

4. Attach clamps on workpieces

Now, you should attach clamps to your tools, and you must also ground your welding machine to prevent electrocution. After that, you choose the right rods and set it to the right amperage range for the job. Set the rod to the right angle and arc length.  You have to maintain both the arc length and lead angle through the welding process.

5. Take care of the slag

If you use any of the inverter welders in this review, you won’t have much slag. So, you can easily grind it off and smoothen things.  When you’re done, switch off your welder and unplug it. Then, you can detach the tools and arrange them back. Make sure you store your welder properly.

What is the Best Inverter MIG Welder?

We have reviewed ten fantastic welders. Choosing the right inverter MIG welder among them isn’t easy. However, after several hours of deliberation, we agreed that the best welder on this list is the Forney Easy Weld 140 MP Inverter MIG Welder. The inverter welder is the easiest to use among them. It was so easy that we didn’t need the user manual to understand how it works.

You will love its clean welds. The welds had very little slag. With it, we were able to weld metals like a pro. Since we only test devices for only a few weeks, we may not be able to determine their durability.

So, we checked what the users of this welder are saying. Based on some of the user reviews, we can assure you that this welding machine is rugged and durable. In spite of its durability, this machine comes with a 1-year warranty.

Since it is easy to use, beginners can quickly get the hang of it. We are beginners in welding, but we were able to find our way around the machine easily. A weight of 25.8 pounds makes it very portable.

The accessories that come with this masterpiece include a 10-inch MIG gun and an 8-inch electrode holder. To crown this king of welders, we’d like to add that it starts up very fast. You’ll agree that an Amazon rating of 4.4 stars sums up all the features quite well.