Best Welder for Beginners: Top 4 Picks
No matter how much beginners are equipped with technical knowledge about welding, they need a welding machine to implement what they have learnt and practice their skills.
Welding is similar to art, and beginners need to master the right welding technique. It requires partial experience to achieve perfect welds.
That’s the reason beginners should have a welding machine to achieve perfection. But the next challenge is selecting the right machine, something that’s beginner-friendly and budget-friendly.
We’re here with the best welder for beginners. We have picked the top 4 welding machine with which beginners can practice different welding processes. Let’s take a look at why they are beneficial for beginners and what they have to offer.
Best Laser Welder for Beginners: xTool Metalfab
xTool Metalfab is a laser welder made for beginners. It’s specially designed to make metalworking as simple as woodworking and empower limitless creativity without any jargon or complexity.
Firstly, it makes laser welding affordable by offering industrial-grade power in a compact machine. Which makes it a great option for beginners who need laser perfection in their DIY projects or small businesses. No doubt laser welders are expensive, but xTool Metalfab reduces the cost to a great extent.
It’s equipped with tons of features and offers exceptional benefits. Here’s why it’s superior to other welders.
Ease of Use
Metalfab does not require any expertise or prior experience to achieve perfect welds. It’s a simple machine that anyone can use with minimal knowledge and effort.
Because of the small laser spot and precise operation, the result is unmatchable. Beginners can also weld like a pro and get extremely clean and smooth welds.
Beginner-friendly Software
What makes Metalfab a beginner-friendly welder is its software. It has made metalworking a matter of a few clicks. Users just need to select the material, and the optimal settings are selected automatically. And they are ready to turn their idea into life.
The machine is equipped with an 8-inch smart screen. That allows quick selection of the settings to get started in no time. Users can select the mode and fine-tune parameters with extreme precision. And the result is fabulous. It’s also possible to save custom settings to set them with one tap whenever you want.
Vast Compatibility
RegarThe machine allows its users to work on a wide range of materials. They can weld stainless steel, aluminum, carbon steel, titanium, nickel alloy, brass, galvanized sheet, magnesium, etc. It opens doors to endless creativity. This vast compatibility is only available in laser welding, not other welding processes.
With Metalfab, you can operate the welding in three modes. It can do continuous, spot, and pulse welding. Thus, users can select the optimal method for their project and achieve exceptional results.
3-in-1 Machine
Metalfab is not just a laser welder. Instead, it is a complete workshop that does welding, cutting, and cleaning through laser. One machine is equal to three machines, but available at the price of one.
The best part is that it automates laser cutting and cleaning processes. You just need to fix the laser torch in the CNC machine, and it automatically cuts the desired shape and cleans the metal with the press of a button.
The built-in advanced algorithms control the laser and ensure incredible precision. It automatically avoids obstacles, maintains the optimal distance from the material, and controls laser motion with precision, so you get clean, smooth, and accurate cuts every time. And it does not require your expertise; it does the perfect job on its own.
The software also enables users to image with the help of AImake. With only a simple prompt, it’s possible to make the designs you want. The design will be ready to use and turn your imagination into reality.
Safety
Beginners often worry about safety during the welding process. But with xTool Metalfab, they don’t need to think about it.
The machine is equipped with advanced safety features. Whether you are welding, cutting, or cleaning, you’re completely safe.
In both machines, the welder and the CNC, there is an emergency stop switch to stop the machine immediately if there is any issue. The welder machine offers electrical safety design, grip detection, temperature monitoring, a USB safety key, etc.
The CNC machine has drawer closure detection, exhaust fan detection, a light filtering cover, and other safety features. Thus, the welder's safety is the priority, and beginners can use the machine without any worries.
Best MIG Welder for Beginners: YESWELDER MIG-140DS PRO
Among all traditional welding methods, a MIG welder is the best option for beginners. They can easily handle a MIG torch because of its simplicity. It is a semi-automatic as the wire automatically feeds to the torch along with the shielding gas.
Thus, the welder requires only one hand to handle the machine, which makes the operation and control a lot easier. Beginners just need to pull the trigger and drag the torch along the line of weld with consistent speed.
With minimal effort, they can achieve clean welds. There is minimal spatter and sparks, and the weld pool is easier to control. Even if the welder is unable to create a clean and smooth weld, it will still be functional and strong enough.
Beginners can get started with YESWELDER MIG-140DS PRO, which is an affordable MIG welder. They can use it for practice, DIY projects, site jobs, etc.
Here’s why you should consider it.
4-in-1 Welder
It’s a 4-in-1 welding machine. It can be used as a Gas MIG, Flux Core MIG, Life TIG, and Stick welding machine. Thus, it is a machine that can be used for a wide range of projects. It’s a comprehensive package for a beginner welder to learn and practice MIG, along with others, and master different welding processes.
Excellent Welding Capacity
The machine can offer up to 140A output, which is more than enough for common jobs. Be it DIY, automotive, construction, or metal fabrication, it can offer excellent performance. You can weld thick and thin materials by controlling the current with precision.
The machine can offer two voltage outputs, 110V and 220V. Users can switch to any of them according to their needs. For DIY projects, repairs, and general use, 110V is suitable. With high voltage, about 220V, it becomes a good option for professional and heavy-duty tasks.
Manual & Synergic MIG
The machine has two wire feeding options, which makes it beginner-friendly. The synergic MIG mode allows you to adjust the wire speed, and according to that, it automatically adjusts the voltage. Thus, an optimal value of voltage is automatically selected for excellent results, and you can also fine-tune it for further improvements. Beginners will not have to worry about the voltage they need to select.
The manual mode allows users to select the wire speed and voltage separately. It’s an excellent option for experienced professionals.
Simple Display and Controls
The display on the machine is clean and simple. It’s large enough to monitor the voltage and current without any hassle. Secondly, the controls help in selecting the right parameters precisely.
Portable
This MIG welder is a portable machine you can carry anywhere. Its 13lbs weight makes it an ideal option for DIY projects and on-site jobs. Just pick the welder and take it anywhere.
Safety Features
The machine is also equipped with some safety features that beginners need. Firstly, it has overheating protection that automatically turns off the machine. Secondly, in case of overload, the machine shuts down automatically, protecting the components as well as the welder.
The outer coating of the machine prevents shock transfer, which makes it a safe option for beginner welders.
Best SMAW Welder for Beginners: TOOLIOM 195A Stick Welder
A stick/SMAW welder is still the most commonly used welding machine. It’s because of its availability, affordability, and most importantly, simplicity. It requires minimal equipment and is the best welder when it comes to transportation. The compact and lightweight machine is easy to carry anywhere.
It is extremely simple because there is no shielding gas needed. It just requires electrodes that contain flux for creating the shielding effect. That’s the reason it is quite easy to operate. Still, SMAW is the first welding process that beginners learn.
As a beginner, you can also get started with a stick welding machine. It’s quite versatile as it can be used for any kind of welding joint and position. Its upfront and running costs are both affordable, and there is almost no maintenance required, except cleaning.
TOOLIOM 195A Stick Welder is a great choice for beginners who want to try welding for the first time. It’s quite affordable and simple, just the perfect option to get started.
2-in-1 Welder
Firstly, it is a 2-in-1 welding machine. It’s basically a stick welder that can also do Lift TIG welding. You get complete accessories to practice both welding processes.
It is compatible with multiple electrode options, such as E6010, 6013, and 7018. The welding rods can be up to 4mm thick.
It’s based on IGBT inverter technology, which is why it is compact. It can handle heavy loads and is less prone to failures.
Moreover, it operates on dual voltage, 110V and 220V. Welders can select the voltage according to the job. At 110V, you can weld up to 1/8” thick materials, while 220V is suitable for up to 5/32” thickness.
High Current and Hot Start
It’s a 195A welding machine, and the current is excellent for most applications. It’s not just a DIY welder, but you can use it for professional jobs. Its high current makes gives you more opportunities to work on different projects.
The machine offers an adjustable hot start, which is a blessing for beginners. Usually, it’s difficult to start the first arc, especially if the material is cold. The electrode sticks to the material, making it difficult to get started.
This problem is solved by a hot start. It delivers a very high current for a very short time, just to start the arc without any hassle. Thus, beginners will not have any problem starting the arc using this machine.
Moreover, there is an adjustable arc force option that prevents the electrode from sticking. It is helpful for getting smooth welds.
VRD (Voltage Reduction Device)
Accidental electric shocks are a great deal when it comes to stick welding. The welders need to be extra careful.
The machine has the VRD optional feature. When the VRD is on, the voltage is reduced to a great extent, lower than 36V in this machine. It is helpful when the machine is not welding, and reduces the chances of electrical shocks. Thus, welders can turn it on and save themselves from electric shocks, especially in damp environments.
There is a button on the machine to turn VRD on/off. When it is turned on, the voltage gets back to normal, which is ideal for getting the arc without any hassle.
Clean & Clear LCD Panel
The LCD panel on the machine is quite simple. It’s clean and clear for beginner welders. They can easily adjust the parameters.
Best TIG Welder for Beginners: YESWELDER 205A TIG Welder
TIG welding is considered a bit difficult for beginners. However, if you have mastered other welding processes or the requirement is TIG welding, you should go with a beginner-friendly yet affordable TIG welder machine.
It is a bit difficult because it requires the optimal control of the torch, filler rod, and foot pedal to get perfect welds. And controlling all these things requires exceptional expertise and experience. However, learning it has its own perks. It offers superior weld quality, strong bond, and versatility.
For beginners starting to learn and practice TIG welding, YESWELDER 205A TIG Welder could be the right machine, especially because of the Pulse TIG welding. It will not only help in learning and beginner jobs but also in professional tasks.
3-in-1 Welder
It’s a 3-in-1 welder. It can do DC TIG, Pulse TIG, and Stick welding. The dual TIG processes make it a better option for both beginners and professionals, and stick welding is an added bonus.
The DC TIG is the standard TIG machine. It offers a constant amperage you set. It’s simple and straightforward. It makes penetrating thick materials easier and creates a very strong bond.
On the other hand, Pulse TIG is an advanced method. It provides current in the pulse form, which means the magnitude changes from a high peak to a low background current. The welder can select the ratio between the peak and low background current and set the frequency of the pulse.
Due to these controls, it becomes easier to control the heat input, which is beneficial for welding thin materials. It is great for beginners as they can control the puddle easily. The final weld looks aesthetically pleasing with minimal effort.
The stick welding is an extra bonus. You can do simple jobs where TIG isn’t necessary.
Hot Start
The machine offers a hot start, which is again a beginner-friendly feature. They will not have to struggle with electrode sticking. There will be minimal spatter and stable ignition.
With the high-frequency arc start of the machine, it is easy to start the arc instantly. The welder just needs to bring the torch near the metal, and it starts without touching.
Memory
A distinct feature of the machine is its memory. It can store the settings. Even if the power is off, users can save and recover the settings easily.
High Amperage
The output current is 200A, which is suitable for most welding jobs. It is more than enough to weld thick materials. Be it a professional or DIY job, this welding machine is sufficient.
Safety Features
The machine has some safety features, and for beginners, it is beneficial. It has overheating and overload protection. The machine will turn off automatically in case of any issue. It protects from overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating. Because of the unique coating on the machine, it prevents electric shocks.
Final Words
Beginners need to select a welding machine that is easy to operate and offers features that make welding easier. We have shared the best beginner-friendly welding machines for different welding processes. Whether you want to start laser, MIG, SMAW, or TIG welding, we have picked the best welding machine considering its beginner-friendly features and affordability. Now, you can easily get started with your first welding machine and master the welding techniques.
