If you are about to purchase a MIG welder, you may be wondering which voltage will be the best choice.
A lot hinges on what kind of power the welder will operate on, and many units are 120V that are available in the marketplace and are basically designed with the home improvement DIYer in mind who perhaps does small projects in home workshops.
This is due also to the fact that to use a more powerful welder such as a 240V, you’ll most likely need your garage or workshop rewired so that you can use it.
Even pros may use these 120V machines for their excellent portability, but if you must do heavier work, a 120V machine will collect dust.
Currently, however, dual voltage welding machines offer the option of doing both light and heavy work, but with only one welder as opposed to two. This will save time, and money, and improve portability wherever you require more power to get the job done.
We liked the Lincoln Electric MP 115/230V Power MIG 210 MP because it offers versatility with welding capabilities for MIG, Stick, Flux Core, and TIG. As a MIG welder, it is exceptional and with the extra welding capabilities, it’s more than exceptional. Manufacturer Lincoln Electric has an excellent reputation.
The Hobart Handler 500563 MIG 210 MVP Welder also caught our attention due to its more affordable price and dependable performance.
| Product | Applications | Weight | Amperage | Duty Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Electric MP 115/230V Power MIG 210 MP | MIG, Stick, Flux Core, and TIG | 40 lbs. | 15A to 200A | 40% duty cycle at 100A (120V) and 25% at 200A (230V) |
| Hobart Handler 500563 MIG 210 MVP Welder | MIG | 79 lbs. | 25A to 150A | 30%@150 amps 20%@90 amps |
| Miller 211 MIG Welder Millermatic® 120/240 VAC | MIG (GMAW) Flux Core (FCAW) | 38lbs. | 30A to 230A | 40% duty cycle at 150 A (240V) and 20% at 115 A (120V) |
| Yeswelder Digital Multi-process MIG-205DS Welding Machine | TIG, MIG, Stick, and Flux Core | 33.4 lbs. | 30A to 205A | 100% duty cycle at 154 amp and 60% @200A (220V) |
Our Favorite Best Dual Voltage MIG Welders
Best Overall Dual Voltage MIG Welder
1. Lincoln Electric MP 115/230V Power MIG 210 MP
- Dual Voltage Inputs (120V or 230V) means you can plug into any common power supply
- Lightweight and portable–just 40 lbs.
- Intuitive push-and-turn digital controls make setup a breeze
- Large color display guides you through the setup process
- Advanced options and settings are simple to access
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This is a pricey welding machine from Lincoln Electric but well worth the money. This optimal #K3963-1 welder offers versatility with welding capabilities for MIG, Stick, Flux Core, and TIG.
If you want a MIG welder, this is an exceptional choice. Thanks to the other welding functions, it’s more than exceptional. This is an investment for long-term welding and Lincoln Electric has an excellent reputation.
Machine construction and welding performance are both first class. A digital display for easy variables insertion and an easily operated user interface make this a convincing option.
Pros
-
-
- Excellent construction
- Lightweight
- Automatic settings
- Portable
- Digital display
- MIG, Flux Core, TIG, Stick capabilities
- Welder saves setting when shut off
-
Cons
-
-
- No AC TIG for aluminum welding
- Short power cords
- Inexpensive gas regulator
-
Best Value Dual Voltage MIG Welder
2. Hobart Handler 500563 MIG 210 MVP Welder
- Sized for you to easily transport the unit to the jobsite with the power to weld 3/8 in. mild steel
- Keeps wire electrically “cold” until trigger is pulled which gives you ease of use and keeps you safe
- Allows you to fine control the output parameters for improved arc performance with less spatter for a better bead appearance and less clean up.
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This is a versatile welding machine that will weld stainless steel, aluminum, mild steel, and cast iron with the appropriate gases and proper filler metals.
It is ideal for beginner welders and nonetheless, it has a welding capability of 24-gauge 3/8-inch stainless steel making it functional for professional tasks such as maintenance, repairs, and more.
Seven different voltage positions allow for better and more precise welding. There will be quality welds and less cleaning to do when you have finished welding. The ARC performance is excellent.
This Hobart welder performs equally well at 115V or 230V. The selected input power adjusts automatically.
Pros
-
-
- Easily setup
- Multiple welding application capabilities
- Can be used by both pros and beginners
- Outstanding ARC performance
- A spool gun is easy to change
- Metal gauge chart on the inside panel
-
Cons
-
-
- Still a bit pricey
- Heavier when moved or transported
- The ground clamp could be better quality
-
Best Dual Voltage Heavy-Duty MIG Welder
3. Miller 211 MIG Welder Millermatic® 120/240 VAC
- Features: Advanced Auto-SetTM, Auto Spoolgun Detect, Smooth-StartTM, Angled Cast-Aluminum Drive System, Quick SelectTM Drive Roll, Thermal Overload Protection, Fan-on-Demand Phase: 1 Input Voltage: 240VAC
- Application: Maintenance, Repair, Auto/Cycle Shops, Farm and Ranch Jobs, Hobby Welding
- Portability: Handheld Portable
- Welded Material: Aluminum, Steel Output Range: 30 to 230A DC Welding Processes: MIG/Flux Core
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
A heavy-duty, durable Miller Electric MIG welder that is perfect for DIYers involved in agriculture, ranch, racing, customizing, restoring, and art.
The manufacturer Miller Electric is a welding industry powerhouse, and this machine features all the necessary equipment to weld mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Unlike other heavy-duty MIG welders, it is relatively lightweight weighing in at less than 50 lbs. It is also incredibly quiet during operation.
Performance is consistent performance when welding aluminum, and mild metals with flux core, and MIG applications.
While a bit advanced for newbie welders with tools and functions that require more experience, it can be easily used by professionals at industrial and construction sites.
The mild steel welding thickness is 24 gauge to 3/8-inch. Aluminum welding thickness is 18 gauge to 3/8-inch. The Input voltage is 110/115/120 and 220/230/240 while the amperage ranges from 30A to 230A. Duty cycles are 20%@115A and 40%@150A.
Pros
-
-
- Inverter technology
- Weighs only 38 lbs.
- 30A to 230A
- Very quiet during operation
- Welds aluminum, steel, and stainless
- Cooling with a fan-on-demand
- compatible with Generators
- Material thickness auto set
- Excellent beads
-
Cons
-
-
- Some quality control problems reported
- Could use a longer ground cable
- Inexpensive ground clamp
- Expensive
-
Best Budget Dual Voltage MIG Welder
4. Yeswelder Digital Multi-process MIG-205DS Welding Machine
- IGBT inverter technology
- Synergic Control
- Designed MIG/MAG/ Flux Core/ARC/Lift TIG welding machine
- Safety, Automatic Protection Function for Over-current, Over-voltage and Over-heating
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Yeswelder offers a budget option in this welding machine for TIG, MIG, Stick, and Flux Core applications. Digital dual displays and an arc control distinguish this cheaper option. The arc control can be changed during MIG welding.
The manufacturer indicates this as synergic arc control. This technology aids in maintaining the arc quality while changing arc settings and conditions. The welding process can be selected using a digital button placed on the control button of the welder.
A MIG gun and a stick mode clamp come with the welder even though a TIG torch is not included. A flip-up plastic dust cover is also featured on the machine. A 2T/4T trigger lock aids in preventing hand fatigue.
This MIG welder cannot be used for aluminum welds as it is not compatible with spool guns. An aluminum electrode can be used for any aluminum welding. The duty cycle is an impressive 100%@154A and 60%@200A.
Pros
-
-
- Weighs only 33 lbs.
- Button select mode
- Resistant metal case
- Lift start TIG arc
- Digital display
- Flip-up protective dust cover
-
Cons
-
-
- TIG and MIG Torches are not included
- Mounts only 4-inch wire spools
- Not appropriate for aluminum welding
- Instructions could be improved
- Without a chart of welder settings
- Without wire-speed control
-
Why Consider a Dual Voltage MIG Welder?
There are a lot of great things about a dual voltage welder. Some of the multiple benefits include
-
-
- Efficient welding with both voltages used
- Economic savings because you will not need to buy separate machines
- The voltage needed to work regardless of the task
- Portability
-
These attributes make these machines great not only for weekend hobbyists but also for professionals on the move, even if the dual voltage MIG welder offers somewhat less than in an industrial shop, it is suitable for powering for those quick jobs required by house visits.
What to Look for in a Dual Voltage MIG Welder?
1. Welding Machine Type
MIG welders will be flux core machines or need shielding gas. Some machines will permit you to do both. Flux core welding is very common since you do not need to use shielding gas and transport a gas cylinder around.
The drawback is that flux core welding leaves slag that needs to be removed once the weld is finished.
Many MIG welders now offer both MIG and flux core options, although some only feature one of the two. A machine will be more versatile with both.
The wire feed speed should also be considered if using flux core welding. A slow speed will amount to an ugly weld, an overly fast speed will create spatter.
2. Brand
Rand should always be a consideration when purchasing a power tool. Selecting a dependable welding equipment manufacturer will afford peace of mind when evaluating machine durability and performance.
Consumables, accessories, and parts will be more readily available. Industry names like Everlast, Hobart, Lincoln, and Miller are synonymous with quality and these industries usually offer very good customer service.
3. Duty Cycle
The duty cycle can be the deciding factor when choosing. If your project requires welding for long periods, a higher duty cycle is best.
The duty cycle percentage specifies how long a welder can run within a ten-minute period without overheating. A 60% duty cycle indicates that the welder will operate for six minutes before requiring cooling for four.
Several welding machines feature lower duty cycles with higher power outputs. These machines require longer cooling. Other welding machines contain fans to reduce the necessary cooling period.
Also, welders may feature protection from thermal overload. The welder will shut off automatically if the duty cycle is exceeded.
4. Expense
Always purchase the best quality welder that you can afford. Expensive welders will not always be better for your welding projects. Select a welder that offers the best ratio of quality to price. Look for performance in relation to what you can spend.
5. Portability
If you will need to transport a welder to various job sites, you need portability. Size and weight will matter. When moving it, a welder with a comfortable weight and handle can make a difference. If you select a heavy-duty welder, select one featuring a cart and wheels for easy transport.
A MIG welder of good quality will weigh approximately 25 to 30 lbs. Lighter machines often come with inverter technology to reduce weight. Professional industrial-grade machines can weigh as much as 200 lbs. on up.
6. Power
The amount of power depends on what you intend to weld. Most MIG welders have indications for metal thickness settings.
7. Spool Gun
If you need to weld aluminum, a spool gun will be necessary. Many small welding machines do not weld aluminum. If you need to weld aluminum, check for one. Spool guns featuring a quick-release function are convenient.
8. Voltage
Dual voltage machines offer the greatest versatility. 110V Welding Machines can be plugged directly into a home socket, but it limits the power output.
Thick metal pieces cannot be welded without increased amperage and power such as with a 220V welding machine but you must have a 220V power outlet which is more common with industrial welding.
9. Warranty
Warranties can be important when purchasing any power tool. Many major manufacturers give three-year or five-year warranties.
Substantial warranties demonstrate that a manufacturer backs its product. With lesser-known brands, read customer reviews and terms before you buy.
Conclusion
Any of these dual voltage MIG welders merit your attention and are worth the money you will spend.
Apart from dual voltage, you need to decide your priorities regarding your welding projects. All the brands are reliable and offer quality products.
If you are on a very limited budget, the Yeswelder Digital Multi-process MIG-205DS Welding Machine will not disappoint. If you are able to invest more any of the other three choices are worthy options.
