There is only one welder that is appropriate for all applications. As a beginner, it is natural to look for a versatile and affordable device. After you grow your skills and knowledge, something more specialized may be helpful.
So which are the critical factors to consider?
Purpose The most critical factor to consider is the purpose. How will you use the welder, and what are your prospects. Are you going to work with aluminum or a wide variety of metals? MIG welding is most appropriate for stainless, aluminum, and Steel. It is cleaner and easy to learn.
You should take some time to consider the projects you will be using the welder on. Do you have an old car that requires some fabrication? Does the motorcycle need a new body?
MIG welding can comfortably handle stainless Steel, Steel, and aluminum alloy. On the other hand, stick welding is most suitable for stainless Steel, Steel, and iron. Stick welding could be better for aluminum alloys.
TIG welding is the most versatile, and it can handle various materials, including Steel, Stainless Steel, aluminum alloys, Chromoly, copper, brass, and other exotic metals. The only shortcoming associated with TIG welding is that it cannot comfortably handle iron.
Difficulty Flux-cored arc welding and MIG welding are some of the simplest to learn. The methods are efficient and straightforward; you can use them outdoors in windy conditions. As a hobbyist, you will primarily use your welder outdoors, which will be vital if it can handle the situations.
The high speed and portability of flux-cored arc welding make it most functional for outdoor and DIY projects.
However, TIG welding gives you more control over the process than MIG and Flux-cored arc welding. You can use it on thin copper alloy, magnesium, and aluminum materials.
Stick welding is the most cost-effective and can work on dirty and rusty surfaces. But if you want something simple to use on small projects at home, then a stick welder will be the most appropriate. The method is the most popular for welding joints and other gaps between metals.
Power Requirements The amperage or power requirements determine the versatility of the equipment. Do you intend to increase the usage of the welder in the future?
Determine the duty cycle and power requirements necessary to complete a particular Project. Will the current power of one specific welder be sufficient to meet the body of your favorite motorcycle?
The beginner welder should be helpful as well as economical.
Budget Apart from the power requirements and duty cycle, you should consider the cost of the entire unit. To avoid problems, choose something cheap. Check the brand, and always pick reliability over everything else.
The cost of the supplies and accessories will also be critical to consider. This includes a jacket, gloves,, helmet, and other consumables such as a welding stick and gas.
