Among all the welding methods, why MIG welding is so popular? Simple, their incredible versatility. Whether it is your DIY project or professional stuff, MIG welding can tackle both. And top of everything, there is another reason why MIG welding is most preferred.

Comfortable and good quality welding!

Compared to other, MIG welding is the easiest. Almost every professional welder advises newcomers to start with the MIG welder.

But since the market is filled with hundreds of MIG welders (if not thousand) and for newcomers, this becomes tough to choose the right one. Then again, some people are in a tight budget, and they can’t seem to find the right model, which is exactly why we are here!

We are here to save you from the hassle of going through hundreds of different MIG welder models!

In this very guide, we have picked 10 best budget MIG welders of the market. Within the low budget, they offer excellent value. And not only that, we have designed this guide with some needed information as well that will help every novice welder to grow.

Anyways, go through the list, and you will end up choosing the best MIG welder for the money!

Here you go! Check our list of 10 Best MIG Welder Under 200:

Comparison of Best Budget Mig Welders

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Reviews of 10 Best Budget MIG Welders

Before you move on to the MIG welder reviews, let us tell you why you should trust these 10 models. Choosing only 10 models out of hundreds wasn’t easy at all. Our experts had to go through a lot of tough situations. They have conducted a couple of tests to measure the performance, durability, and welding quality of these MIG welders.

And then, they have reached out to the real users as well to know how exactly the welders are going with them because users can give the perfect information.

After all the tests, the following models turned out to be good, and users are pretty satisfied with these. So that is exactly how we are down to these 10 Best Inexpensive MIG welder.

1. Goplus MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welding Machine

[amazon box=”B0185BEKK6″]

Who doesn’t love portability? If you are welding in different places, then you must choose a portable MIG welding machine. But the problem is, choosing a portable welder and at the same time offers good performance is a little daunting. Are you one of those who are struggling in that phase?

Then have a look deep look at the Goplus MIG 130 flux core welder. One of the most portable welding machines comes with only 35-pounds weight. And the portability didn’t cause it to be slow on the performance. It is an outstanding performer, as well. You are going to have incredible welding joints as long as you use this welder on thin materials.

Goplus MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder Review

4 Heat settings

This very MIG welder comes with 4 different heat settings from low to high. With this, you can choose the right heating level for the job. Reduces the risk of overheating for low heat tasks. Actually, how high the heat should be that depends on the task. If you want really strong weld, then you might want to get a high temperature. Otherwise, keeping it low is a good decision.

Long power cord

If you are a beginner, you might not realize the importance of having a long power cord. Short power cords will limit your movement, which is so irritating. But with this very MIG welding machine, you are getting a 72.5-inch long power cord enough to give you a convenient experience.

Thermal Overload protection

You get safety features as well with this Goplus 130 MIG welding machine. Featuring thermal overload protection, which will shut off the machine immediately after it gets overheated. Eliminating any further damage to both the machine and surroundings.

Built-in torch

Even in the present time, there is some MIG welding machine that doesn’t come with a torch, requires you to purchase separately. But you will get a built-in torch with this MIG welding machine. Not only that, it comes with an on/off switch. So when it is not needed, you can keep the torch off.

Performance

For normal thin steel, iron, or aluminum welding, this MIG welder will be a great choice. It Delivers highly strong and decent looking beads. Whether it is DIY or normal repairing work, this Goplus 130 MIG welder will get your job done easily.

PROS: Best MIG welder for the money

Highly portable

Super easy to use

It offers 4 heating levels

It comes with a long power cord

It features thermal overload protection

It offers 4-heating levels

Thermal overload protection

Built-in torch

CONS: Best for light-duty tasks, cannot handle heavy-duty works

Little tough to weld without tripping the breaker

The Goplus MIG 130 Welder Flux Core Wire Automatic Feed Welder is one of the best affordable MIG welders. For light-duty tasks, you won’t get better at such a price range. You get higher portability, good weld quality, long-lasting performance, and overheating protection as well. What else you expect from such a budget?

2. Super Deal PRO Commercial MIG 130 AC Flux Core Welding Machine

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The Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130 AC flux core is a Best Flux Core Welder Under 200. It is actually designed for welding on thinner materials. We know stick welding is good for thinner materials, but that work that sticks welding can’t tackle; this very welder can do that. This very machine can handle up to 16-gauge 3/8 thick metal sheets very easily. Not only that thin metal welding, but there are also some features as well that this welder offers, such as portability, higher durability, etc.

Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130 AC flux core Review

Wire feed speed

This MIG welder allows you to adjust the wire feed speed according to your needs. You can change the speed either with the flick of max/min or ½ switch. For deep penetration welding, wire feed adjustability helps a lot, gives you just the right weld.

Versatility

The Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130 AC flux core welder is a highly versatile MIG welding machine. With this, you can weld 16-gauge to 3/8-inch thick metal or steel sheets. Not only that, along with different steels, you can weld on 16 gauge to 3/8-inch thicker aluminum as well.

Portability

This MIG welder weighs only 38-pounds, which makes it extremely durable. So if you will be working in different places, with this very model, you will be pretty comfortable. Besides portability, it is compact, as well. It doesn’t require a big space for storage.

Accessories

With the purchase, you not only get the MIG welder but a couple of needed accessories as well. This machine comes with a reel, protection mask, welding wire, chipping hammer, torch, and ground cord.

PROS: You get all the needed accessories

Extremely low priced MIG welder

Best MIG welder for sheet metal

Highly portable and compact

Offers versatility

Adjustable wire feed speed

Highly versatile MIG welder

It comes with needed accessories

CONS: Thin flux core wire

Not for heavy-duty tasks

With steels, this Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130 AC flux core welder does work pretty good on thin aluminum sheets as well. According to the price, this MIG welder offers a lot. If you are looking for a decent MIG welder for DIY projects, then you would not go wrong with this model.

3. Forney Easy Weld 298 Arc Welder

[amazon box=”B016R0FCO0″]

If you are looking for a light-duty MIG welder for tackling both garage or household jobs, then this Forney Easy Weld 299 flux core welder can be your thing. There is nothing extraordinary in this model but delivers good service for long periods. Forney is not a new brand, their welders have been dominating the market for very long, and they are well-known for their high durability.

One feature of this MIG welder that is highly appreciated is the portability. It comes with an ergonomic handle, which makes it really easy to carry it anywhere. Besides that, the weight is pretty low, so that also plays a big role in overall portability.

Forney Easy Weld 298 Arc Welder Review

Installation

If you are a beginner, this Forney Easy Weld would be an excellent choice for you. The installation process of this welder is very simple. It comes with a user manual that will give you everything you need to know. Then the user process is a breeze, no complexity at all.

Durability

It comes with greater durability. The manufacturer has used top-notch materials in the construction, which makes it really touch. If used and maintained well, this very welder will serve you for an extended period of time.

Portability

For portability, a lot of users have fallen in love with this Forney easy weld MIG welding machine. Features an ergonomic handle that allows you to easy lift the machine; the handle is durable enough, so do not worry about breaking. And the weight is pretty low as well.

Welding

With this very welder, you cannot tackle heavy-duty industrial jobs, but you can easily weld on 24 gauge up to ¼ inch. You can use this welder to weld thin aluminum sheet as well.

PROS: Highly portable welder

It requires very low maintenance

Highly durable machine

Super easy to install and use

It doesn’t make much noise

Best for beginners

It offers great portability

Top-notch welding beads

CONS: Cannot tackle heavy-duty tasks

Forney definitely lands on one of the best MIG welder brands and their product also comes in the top list easily. And this Forney Easy Weld 299 flux core welder is one of them. For light-duty tasks, this is one of the best you will find in the market right now.

4. SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Welder Flux Core AC Welder

[amazon box=”B071141JQ9″]

If you are looking for the best 220v MIG welder for the money? Then go for SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Welder Flux Core MIG welder. The SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Flux core AC welder is designed for both the beginners and the professional. This welder can be used in both heavy-duty and light-duty welding tasks but having that said, it is advisable not to use this welder on industrial-grade heavy-duty tasks. It is a gasless MIG welding machine that can be used anywhere, indoor, outdoor.

It packs all the features that a novice welder needs to get started. And it comes with some accessories as well, which saves some money.

The SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Flux core AC welder Review

Ease of use

It is a 150V AC MIG welder, so you are going to need a 150V AC power outlet wherever you will be using this user. The using process is very simple since it is designed for beginners. But you will still get a user manual that will answer your every question regarding the use of this welder.

Thermal Overload Protection

We have gone through a lot of MIG welding machines of the market and found some models that provide safety as well, along with other features. And this SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Flux core AC welder is one of them. Even after being an affordable model, the manufacturer didn’t compromise the safety feature. It comes with a thermal overload protection feature that shuts the machine down when it gets overheated.

Welding material

This welder machine does an excellent job of welding in thin steels. You can use this welder on thin aluminum sheets, as well. Do not try to force this machine on thicker sheets, that will hamper its life span.

Gasless

This MIG welder doesn’t require any gas to operate, without any kind of gas, this still shows pretty good welding performance.

Accessories

Not only the machine, with the purchase, but you also get a welding torch, earth clamp, flux-cored welding wire spool, hammer, and a welding mask.

PROS: Highly affordable MIG welder

Gasless operation

It comes with needed accessories

Super easy to use

Highly portable

Thermal overload protection

Super easy to install

It comes with accessories

CONS: It doesn’t perform well on heavy-duty tasks

It makes little noise while welding

If you have a budget of 200 dollars, this SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Flux core AC welder would be a good investment. But do not pick this model, if you will be using on heavy-duty tasks, it is best for light-duty jobs.

5. VIVOHOME Portable Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder

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Presenting another gasless model, this time, the welder is from VIVOHOME. You might not have heard the brand name before since it is not an old brand like Forney, Lincoln, or Lotos. But that being said, their VIVOHOME Portable Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder have proved to be worthy of investing. VIVOHOME Portable Flux Core packs all the features that a professional welder needs. It is a beginner-friendly MIG welding machine. Low price and good quality, you will find both in this very welder.

VIVOHOME Portable Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder Review

Compact design

You are not going to need a big space and neither you need to make a big effort. The size of this welder is very compact, and the weight is pretty low, which makes it a highly portable MIG welder. It weighs only 37.1-pounds and features an ergonomic handle that makes it easier for you to carry the welder.

Versatility

It is a versatile welder, can handle different kinds of welding jobs. Whether it is about welding thin steel sheets or thin aluminum, this welder is enough to give amazing welding joints.

Accessories

With the purchase, you will get a bunch of accessories that are needed. Includes, grounding clamp, welding helmet, and welding mask. You get a welding brush as well.

No reaction welder

This MIG welder uses flux-cored wire in order to release the inert gas and this prevents any kind of oxidation, resulting in top-notch weld beads.

Welding speed

This MIG welder allows you to adjust the welding speed to 4 different levels. Adjustable welding speed allows you to choose the right speed for the right job.

PROS: It offers 4-speed levels

Highly lightweight and compact

Easy to install and use

Delivers great value for the money

Delivers strong weld joints

Compact design

No oxidation in welding

CONS: This welder uses only DC

Not suitable for thicker materials

People who are looking for a welder to work on thinner materials, they can give this VIVOHOME Portable Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder a try. A lot of users are using this model, so far, they are pretty satisfied.

6. VIVOHOME Portable 110V Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder Machine

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Both of these two, the VIVOHOME Portable 110V Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder Machine and previously reviewed VIVOHOME model, are the same. There is no much difference in both of these MIG welders. This is 110Volt MIG welder, designed only for the newcomers. Though it can get some heavy-duty professional tasks done, it is suggested by the manufacturer not to use this welder in heavy-duty tasks.

VIVOHOME Portable 110V Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder Review

No oxidation

Like the preview VIVOHOME model, this one also uses flux-cored wire to release the inert metal gas. Because of that, no oxidation in welding happens, and that results in top-notch strong weld joints.

Welding materials

This MIG welder is actually best for welding on thinner materials. And it is versatile, and you can use this welder on normal steel, stainless steel, and even in aluminum as well. Besides that, it is the best MIG welder for auto body works.

Welding speed

It comes with four different welding speed levels, and you can adjust the speed according to the task you have in hand. The speed adjustment makes welding more convenient with this MIG welder.

Portability

Wherever you go, you can easily take this MIG welder with you. The weight is very low, the size is compact and features a handle as well, all of these makes it highly portable.

PROS: Affordable price

Best for auto body works

Highly versatile welder

Super easy to use

Portable machine

It comes with accessories

Highly portable

CONS: Doesn’t come with thermal overload protection

For occasional welding works, this the VIVOHOME Portable 110V Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder is a good fit. It comes at an affordable price and is highly durable, as well.

7. DEKOPRO 140A MIG Welding Machine

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Now here comes a powerful model that can handle jobs better compared to previously reviewed MIG welders of this list. Presenting the DEKOPRO 140A MIG Welder, one of the finest and top-rated model of the market that delivers outstanding performance when it comes to MIG welding. Till now, we saw MIG welders that can weld on Stainless steel and aluminum. But this model can work cast iron and mild steel as well. And the weld quality is not average, way too good. However, the main attraction of this welder is something else, the IGBT power device. This enhances the overall performance of this welder.

DEKOPRO 140A MIG Welder Review

Welding quality

You will be so impressed by the welding quality of this very MIG welder. This welder comes with decent power and produces the top-notch sturdy weld. Not only that, the weld appearance is pretty good, as well.

Wire feed speed

This welder allows you to adjust the wire feed speed according to your needs. You can change the speed depending on the thickness of the material, and the adjustment will enable you to weld more accurately and comfortably.

Durability

The manufacturer has used top-class PVC material in the construction of this welder, and that makes this machine highly durable. If cared and used well, this will serve you for an extended time.

Portability

The size of this welder is compact, and weight is pretty light. Features a small handle which allows you to carry the welder conveniently.

Versatility

As mentioned above, with this very MIG welding machine, you can work on different materials such as mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum as well.

PROS: It offers decent power

Highly portable

It offers good durability

Adjustable wire feed speed

Delivers good quality weld

Top-quality weld

Adjustable wire feed speed

Highly durable machine

CONS: The included ground clamp doesn’t work properly

If you need a little powerful MIG welding machine for tackling your home improvement jobs, undoubtedly, the DEKOPRO 140A MIG Welder would be a wise choice.

8. Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder

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For small and light-duty welding jobs, the Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder is an outstanding choice. It can weld materials thicker up to 1/8 inch and is highly versatile as well. From normal steel to aluminum, it can effortlessly weld on all these materials. Actually, an impressive performance from the Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder is no surprise.

Brand Lincoln is one of the oldest and most reputed brands, and they are serving the market with impressive products for quite a long time now. So top-notch product from them is not surprising.

Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder Review

Versatility

This Lincoln welder offers both flux-cored and MIG option. It can weld on different materials, from normal steel to stainless steel to aluminum, you can expect this every welder to perform decently on every material.

Weld quality

The reputation the brand Lincoln holds, do you really think the welding quality would be bad? Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder Delivers strong weld on every thin material. It uses shield gas to make welding more powerful and strong.

Portability

Not all the Lincolns MIG welders are portable and compact. But this Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder is. It comes with low weight, and the size is very compact, which allows you to store and carry this welder very easily.

Cold contractor safety

You might not see this feature in most of the top-rated MIG welders of the market. But the Lincoln will always do something different. It features cold contactor safety, which keeps the wire cold when the gun trigger is pulled for heating. This is a kind of safety feature, but it is really appreciated.

PROS: Portable and compact welder

Easy to install and use

Highly durable machine

Feature cold contractor safety

Good weld quality

Versatile MIG welder

Incredible welding

Cold contactor safety

CONS: It doesn’t come with any gas gauge

The spool capacity is limited

People who need a top-notch MIG welder that can tackle various jobs, they should not worry investing in this Lincoln Electric K2185 1 Handy MIG Welder. One of the top-rated models of the market and it have gained the best-selling tag as well. So you can go with this model with no doubt at all.

9. Forney Easy Weld 261 140 Fc-I MIG Welder

[amazon box=”B07CP9CDVQ”]

This is the second Forney MIG welder of this list, and this one is specially designed for the DIY lovers. But that being said, you can use this welding machine on other light-duty tasks as well. Presenting the Forney easy weld 261 140 FC-I MIG welder, one of the best-selling MIG welders of the market. There are a couple of reasons why you should pick this welder. But the best one is the durability. If maintained well, it can easily last for at least 10-years.

Forney easy weld 261 140 Fc-I MIG welder Review

Control

This Forney easy weld 261 140 FC-I MIG welder comes with infinite voltage level and wire feed speed control. The speed control allows you to dial the needed amount of speed, and later that results in the perfect weld.

Power

You can get up to 140-amp output from this very MIG welding machine. And with this power, you can weld on materials thicker up to ¼ inches.

Durability

Features a top-notch metal cage that helps this welder to withstand heavy wear and tear. Besides that, the manufacturer has used top-grade materials in the construction, which makes it highly durable.

Accessories

With the purchase along with the machine, you will also get a MIG gun, ground clamp, adapter, and torch wrap.

PROS: Durable welder

It offers good portability

Easy to use

Can weld on mild steel

It comes with needed accessories

Best for beginners

Powerful machine

CONS: Makes little noise while welding

For DIY projects, you might not find a better MIG welder than the Forney easy weld 261 140 FC-I MIG welder. As mentioned, it is one of the best-selling models and serving users pretty well.

10. Hobart 500559 Handler 115V 140 MIG Welder

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And here comes the last welder of this article, the Hobart 500559 Handler 115V 140 MIG Welder. If you have been in the welding market for any length of time, you must know the brand Hobart. Old producer of top-notch welders that dominates the market completely. The Hobart 500559 Handler is 115 volt MIG welder, and 115Volt power outlet is found in every household, so that shouldn’t be a problem. The main attraction of this very MIG welder is the versatility and the welding quality. Both are at the top level.

Hobart 500559 Handler 115V 140 MIG Welder Review

Material

From normal steel to stainless steel, cast iron to aluminum, this very welder can weld on every material. And can weld from 24 gauge to ¼ mild steel. The weld quality is top-notch, and welding with this very model doesn’t require much effort.

Power

This MIG welder comes with decent power, enough to tackle some medium-duty jobs as well. That being said, this welder performs outstandingly on light-duty tasks.

Portability

The weight is not much, pretty low, and there is a handle as well with which you can easily carry this welder. And the compact size makes storing easy.

Voltage control

This MIG welding machine features 5-position voltage control, and with that, you can establish stable arc at materials of different thicknesses. In other words, it improves the welding quality.

PROS: It doesn’t require extra maintenance

Very easy to install and use

It comes with 5-position voltage control

Highly portable

It offers good durability as well

Top-notch weld quality

Best for aluminum welding

Can tackle medium-duty tasks

CONS: Not for heavy-duty tasks

Poor speed adjustment system

Hobart is a brand of trust and is leading the market for quite a long time now. And this Hobart 500559 Handler 115V 140 MIG Welder is one of their top-rated models, so you cannot go wrong with this model.

What Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Affordable MIG Welder?

Since there are a plethora of MIG welding machines, how would you be able to pick the right one? What features separate a good welder from the crowd? Want to know?

Go through the MIG welder buying guide below! We have demonstrated a couple of important features that you must consider before buying a MIG welder!

Let’s get started!

Power

The very first you would want to consider is the power of the welder. How much the power should be, that depends on the tasks you will be doing with that welder. For example, if you will be welding only thin metals, then 100-amp power would be enough for you.

But when you have the intention to weld on thicker materials as well, you will need more power. So that is exactly how you have to choose the right power. That being said, if you will be using the welder in light-duty tasks, consider buying a 140-amp powerful welder, you will thank us later!

Duty Cycle:

The duty cycle means how long you can weld continuously. For example, if your welding machine duty cycle is 60% means you can weld 6 minutes and have to keet it rest for 4 minutes to cool it before starting again.

Before buying, You must have to consider the duty cycle of a welding machine. If you like to weld continuously, then you have to consider your budget.

At this point, we highly recommend you to choose SUNGOLDPOWER MIG 150A Welder Flux Core Welding Machine because you can’t get better than this affordable MIG welder.

Wire feed speed

The next thing you should pay attention to is the wire feed speed. This is as important as power. If your MIG welder comes with very low wire feed speed, then the wire will vanish right after it comes in contact with the metal and that will result is uneven and ugly looking weld.

On the other hand, if the speed is too fast, then you will have to mess with a lot of spatter. So choose welder that comes with decent wire feed speed. It would be best if you choose one welder that allows you to adjust the wire feed speed.

Portability

Do you need a portable MIG welder? Don’t know? Okay! Ask this question to yourself, will you be going into different places with the welder? If no, then you don’t need portability. But if your answer is yes, then you need to choose a welder that is highly portable. Now there are a lot of models that are highly portable. However, choose a welder that is lightweight and compact in size.

Overload protection

And the last feature you should check is the safety features. Check if the welder comes with thermal overload protection or not. Thermal overload protection will shut off the machine automatically when it gets overheated. That means, that features will keep you and things around the welder safe.

What is MIG Welder?

If you have been into the welding industry for even a short period of time, then you must know what is MIG welding. However, this section is for the beginner who just has stepped into the MIG welding arena. So before you get started with picking a MIG welder, you should know the thing first.

MIG welding refers to Metal inert gas. MIG welding is also known as gas metal arc welding. It is actually an arc welding method that continuously feeds wire electrode by the welding gun and that is what joints two pieces together strongly. Among all the different welding methods, MIG welding is the most comfortable one because it can be learned pretty faster and easily. And they are widely available as well.

The Frequently Asked Questions of best budget MIG welder

Q: What is the best MIG welder?

There are a couple of models which have proven to be best but if you want a name, we would say, the Goplus MIG 130 flux core welder.

Q: What is the best MIG welder for home use?

The Super Deal Pro Commercial MIG 130 AC flux core MIG welder is a great option for home use.

Q: What is the best MIG welder for a beginner?

The Forney Easy Weld 299 flux core welder is specially designed for the beginners.

Q: What is the best MIG welder for bodywork?

The VIVOHOME Portable 110V Flux Core Wire No Gas MIG 130 Welder Machine considers the best auto body word MIG welders.

Q: What is the best MIG welder for aluminum?

The Hobart 500559 Handler 115V 140 MIG Welder is the best cheap MIG welder for aluminum. Not only aluminum, but you can also weld on different materials with this welder.

Conclusion

Time to wrap up the article! All these 10 models are the best budget MIG welder you will find in the market right now. In this list, we have welder for the beginners, and professionals too. And there is welder of different price ranges.

Don’t get influenced by people’s choice, a product that is best for me, might not be best for you. So choose the one that meets your needs, and only that would be the best for you.

I hope this article helps you to get you the right MIG welding machine. And if you have any confusion or problem, feel free to hit us through the comment section, we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Happy MIG welding!!! If you are looking for a premium one, you may check the best MIG welder under 400 here.