110-volt MIG welders are super easy to use and you can plug them into any regular wall socket. They’re mainly for small projects at home, but they’re also pretty flexible.
While it wasn’t possible to test all the 110V MIG machines on the market, I used my experience with the machines I have used, as well as some help from some fellow welders.
When choosing the best options, I looked for:
- Good power output with 110V input
- Machine build quality
- Brand reliability and support
- Overall user satisfaction
My personal favorite is the Eastwood MIG 140 (or the bigger brother MIG 180 mentioned below), which ticks all the boxes above and is excellent value for money if you’re comparing it to a big brand name like Hobart.
Note: I purposefully avoided the cheap Chinese MIG welders as I have had bad experiences with them. Either they weren’t reliable, the parts were hard to find, or their support was non-existent.
With that in mind, let’s dive in.
A Quick Comparison
Product | |||
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Image | Product | Details | |
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Eastwood MIG 180 |
Solid build quality, reliability & support Excellent value for money Alternative to Hobart 210 |
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Hobart Handler 140 |
Excellent build quality, reliability & support Old time tested favorite Transformer based |
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Weldpro MIG200GDsv |
Multiprocess welder Includes torches Dynamic arc control |
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Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i |
Great price range Generator friendly Ultra lightweight |
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Lincoln K2278-1 |
Pre-connected Easy settings Great for learning |
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Titanium MIG 170 |
Inductance control Spool gun ready Dual-voltage input |
The Best 110v MIG Welders
Here's a list of some of the best 110v MIG welders :
1. Eastwood MIG 180 - 110v MIG Welder
![Eastwood MIG 180 - 110v MIG Welder](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/eastwood-mig-180-white.jpeg)
- Inverter based
- Dual input 110v or 220v
- 24 gauge up to 5/16-inch steel
- 30-180 amps output
- 2T/4T trigger lock
- Quality all-metal drive system
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Great alternative to the Hobart 210
- Eastwood 140 provides even more value
- Standard consumable parts are easy to replace
- Tack weld setting to longer runs
- Generator friendly
- Spool gun ready
- Weighs under 26 pounds
- Tweco-style torch- easy parts
Cons
- Only 120 amps on the 110 side
- Regulator feels a little cheap
Overview
The Eastwood MIG 180 Welding Machine has dual power, running on either 110 volts or 220v, giving you more flexibility as to where you can work. 110v input lets you weld at home, and if you need more power or want to do some chores at work, the 220 side makes that easy. If you don’t have access to 220-240 power or prefer 140-amp current instead of 120 amps on 110v, you should take a serious look at the Eastwood MIG 140, a 110v-only machine.
![](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/eastwood-mig-180-control-panel-1024x576.jpg)
The Eastwood MIG 180 Welding Machine offers some improvements over its earlier MIG 175 version, including a better drive system to fix the inconsistent wire feeding that owners experienced with the MIG 175. The MIG 180 also features higher output, tack weld mode for low-power operations, and infinitely adjustable controls. And in my opinion, it beats out the more expensive Hobart 210.
This machine is generator friendly and it’s spool gun ready, enabling you to MIG weld aluminum with the optional spool gun. The Eastwood MIG 180 Welding Machine is available as a discounted bundle with the spool gun. Eastwood integrated a 2T/4T trigger lock, suitable for auto bodywork to run long beads on sheet metal as thin as 24 gauge.
2. Hobart Handler 140 MIG 110v Welder
![Hobart Handler 140 MIG 110v Welder](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/hobart-handler-140.jpg)
- Transformer based
- 24 gauge sheet to 1/4-inch steel
- Generator friendly
- 20 percent duty cycle at 90 Amps
- MIG and flux core
- 25–140 amps
Pros
- A time tested favorite
- Transformer based machines gives you reliability
- Solid build quality
- Industrial-grade ground clamp
- Aluminum wire drive
- Miller brand regulator
- High quality MIG torch
- Consumables are easy to find
- Excellent support and warranty
Cons
- Expensive for a 110V MIG machine
- Transformer based means a heavier machine
- A wrench needed to adjust tension which inconvenient
Overview
You can’t have a 110V MIG list without the Hobart Handler 140. It’s turned into a classic these days and is one of the most popular 110v models available. Built with a transformer at the core, this machine will hold up in the toughest environments, but it comes at a cost in weight and dollars compared to the Eastwood machine. Transformer machines are not as popular anymore as inverters have become so reliable with the added benefit of advanced features.
![](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/hobart-handler-140-demo-1024x683.jpg)
Build quality and reliability are the two standout qualities as Miller, the big brother to Hobart, builds industrial machines for professional welders.
The Hobart Handler 140 MIG 110v Welder provides 25 to 140 amp power, a range that will weld from 24 gauge sheet metal all the way up to 1/4-inch steel. The duty cycle is 20 percent at 90 amps.
You’ll have no issue with the weld quality, consumables, or support with the Handler 140. The main factor you’ll need to weigh is whether you pay more for an old transformer model. Or do you save money and weight and opt for an inverted model like the Eastwood MIG 180… My opinion is slowly changing to the inverter models.
3. Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process/MIG Welder
![Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process/MIG Welder](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41xFoI+lGpL.jpg)
- 25-200 amp output
- MIG, TIG and stick
- Dual 110-240v input
- Digital display
- 2-year warranty
Pros
- Includes MIG gas regulator
- Comes with MIG and TIG torches
- 13-foot TIG connection
- Mounts 4 and 8 inch rolls
- Lift-type TIG start
Cons
- TIG gas regulator costs extra
- Not foot pedal capable
Overview
The Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process Welder provides MIG, TIG, flux-core and stick arc capability in a single box. Weldpro includes both a MIG and TIG torch with this machine, as well as a MIG gas regulator. The lightweight design only weighs 30 pounds. It features a durable all-aluminum wire drive mechanism that mounts both 4 inch and 8 inch wire spools.
This a dual-voltage input machine, allowing you to plug into a 110-120 volt or 220-240 volt source. When running on 110v MIG, you can weld from 25 to 140 amps output. That’s enough to get you from 24 gauge sheet metal up to 1/8-inch steel. On 240-volt power, the Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process Welder can get you up to 3/8-inch thick steel.
If you want to run TIG, you’re going to need a TIG gas regulator, which costs extra. The Weldpro MIG200GDsv 110v Multi Process Welder can’t use a foot pedal for heat control (full review here), but it does have a 2T/4T trigger lock for long TIG weld runs. This machine uses a lift-type arc start for TIG and has automatic arc control.
4. Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i MIG 110v Welder
![Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i MIG 110v Welder](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41wUQwpN0vL.jpg)
- Flux core only
- Weighs only 19 pounds
- All metal wire drive
- Infinitely adjustable settings
- 10-140 amps
Pros
- A flux core classic
- Generator friendly
- 32 gauge sheet to 1/4-inch plate
- Excellent value for money
- Takes both 4 inch and 8 inch spools
- Tweco-style MIG torch with easy find consumables
Cons
- Not gas-capable
- Short connections only 8 feet long
Overview
This machine is an inexpensive yet highly capable machine that represents great value. The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is a versatile flux core-only box with a wide output range. I’ve recommended this machine to many new welders who want to pick up welding without gas.
Although it’s not gas MIG capable, this machine gets you 140 amps of wire-feed flux core welding right away. It’s worth considering the fact that the flux core process is better than MIG for outdoor welding when it comes to breeze resistance.
![](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/forney-easy-weld-140-fc-i-demo-1024x683.jpg)
The Forney Easy Weld 261 MIG Welder will weld the thinnest sheet metal of any machine in this roundup at 32 gauge thickness, making it excellent for auto body and ductwork. At the other end of the power range, 140 amps will weld 1/4-inch plate steel. It can mount both 4 inch and 8-inch wire spools, however, one drawback is this is a cheap gasless welder, so the wire drive is made from all plastic (full review here).
The power level control on the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i MIG Welder is infinitely adjustable within its range from 10 to 140 amps. It comes with 10-foot MIG torch and grounding clamp. The speed adjustment for the wire feed is also infinitely adjustable.
5. Lincoln K2278-1 MIG Handy Core 110v Wire Feed Welder
![Lincoln K2278-1 MIG Handy Core 110v Wire Feed Welder](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Bz+U0uzJL.jpg)
- MIG gun included
- 35-88 amp output
- Cold electrode wire
- Beginner’s flux core machine
- 12 month warranty
Pros
- Easy settings system
- Great for sheet metal
- Factory-connected leads
- Four settings ranges
- Welds up to 1/8-inch
Cons
- Duty cycle is only 20 percent at 70 amps
- Some owners say the ground clamp is cheap
Overview
This is an inexpensive, high quality flux core welder aimed at beginners. The Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core features an easy settings system that lets users quickly set up. The machine comes with the leads already attached from the factory. The welding gun is already set up and ready to use. It’s possible to start welding within minutes of unpacking.
The Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core is a great machine for whipping out quick repairs around the household such as torn metal on patio tables or planters. You can quickly take car of brackets and exhaust work on motorcycles, yard equipment and handle automotive repairs. It’s capable of welding metal up to 1/8-inch thick, to easily take care of gate hinges, assemble angle iron for tables and plant stands or repair pool fencing.
The Lincoln K2278-1 Handy Core comes with a 10-foot connection and ground clamp. Some owners report the ground clamp is of cheap quality, but they’re easy and inexpensive to replace. Lincoln is probably the biggest name in welding, with a nationwide network of dealerships including big box and farm supply stores.
6. Titanium MIG 170 MIG 110v Welder
![Titanium MIG 170 MIG 110v Welder](https://weldguru.com/wp-content/uploads/titanium-mig-140-white.jpeg)
- Dual voltage 110v / 240v input
- 30-170 amp range
- All-metal wire drive
- Digital Display
- 24-gauge sheet to 3/8-inch steel
Pros
- Spool gun ready
- Inductance control
- Lightweight 24 pounds
- Change wire without tools
- 2- to 12-pound spools
Cons
- MIG gun lead is very stiff
- Ground clamp is cheap
Overview
The Titanium MIG 170 MIG Welder is a powerful, inexpensive MIG machine that also runs flux core. The dual-voltage input power gives you go-anywhere versatility, letting you plug in at home with 110-volt convenience while allowing 240-volt use as needed. If you don’t need the dual voltage with 140 amps, then you should consider the Titanium MIG 140 machine to save a few extra bucks.
The Titanium MIG 170 is lightweight at only 24 pounds, making it easy for you to move around as needed to reach tight spots or transport to the job. The 30-amp bottom end will weld as thin as 24 gauge sheet metal. On 110v you can weld up to 1/8-inch steel at 140 amps. The 240 side will reach 170 amps to weld up to ⅜-inch thick in a single pass.
The Titanium MIG 170 MIG Welder features a digital display for easy setup and monitoring and it’s spool gun ready. Just plug in the optional spool gun without any changes to MIG weld aluminum up to 1/4-inch thick. The all-metal wire drive features no-tool spool changes and mounts from 2-pound to 12-pound spools.
Conclusion
There are lots of 110v MIG machines on the market these days. Some of them are incredibly inexpensive, others seem to have unbelievable features.
There are a few simple rules of thumb for this class of machine.
You want quality first, power level second, and pricing third.
The very cheapest machines on the market might not last more than a single welding session, and because they’re generic imported machines, they often can’t be repaired. Every technical pursuit has a minimum price of entry.
110-120 volts will only get you 140 amps output. This is a scientific fact.
We’ve included two machines with power in the near-200 amp class, but to get that much juice you need to plug into 220-240 volts. This kind of flexibility comes at extra cost, but can be well worth the price.
We chose the Eastwood MIG 180 as the best option for a machine that offers the option of professional-grade power and quality along with the versatility of 110-volt capability. This machine is also ready to plug in a spool gun to MIG weld aluminum and Eastwood offers this machine with the optional spool gun included for less than buying them separately.
When it comes to quality, you don’t have to spend a big number to get it. Your best bet in this regard is to go with a big domestic brand name, because they have to deliver or they’re going to be hurting in the market before long.
These brands have large networks of dealers in the USA, Canada and Mexico and can repair your machine within a short time if necessary.
The Titanium MIG 170 has warranty, parts and supply service available at any Harbor Freight store, which are located in towns of every size, especially those near interstate highways.
With thrift and value in mind, we’re recommending the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i MIG Welder, also known as Model 261, as the best choice for a budget welder, because it’s got great value and quality in a great price range, coupled with the ability to expand its capabilities over time.
There is always a place for a minimum cost, low-power welder in the shop for quick repairs or for learning how to weld. The Lincoln Electric K2278-1 Handy Core is a great machine for beginner-level welders but might not deliver the power or control that more experienced welders might need.
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