These days welding is becoming even more accessible thanks to more compact and affordable welding machines. As well as larger professional projects, welding is also a great skill that DIY welders, hobby welders and tradespeople can pick up to easily build and repair things.
If you are in this category and are looking for a welding machine that is perfect for a beginner, then we’ve put together this guide to help you. We consider material, budget and skill level.
What to Look for When Buying a Welding Machine as a Beginner
Choosing a welding machine, especially if it’s your first, can be overwhelming. There are so many different types, features and price points on the market. Choosing the right welding machine for you can depend on a lot of factors. For example, the right welder for car enthusiasts won’t be the same ideal machine for someone fixing a farm gate. Here are the top things to consider when deciding which machine is right for you:
1. Type of metal
Not all welding machines can be used for all types of metals. Mild steel is the most common metal beginners will work with and most entry-level welders are compatible with this (MIG and stick). If you are looking to work with aluminium or stainless steel, then you may need a welder with more capabilities. If you plan to work on car panels, gates or general fabrication then mild steel will be your go-to.
2. Material thickness
One of the most important questions to ask yourself is: how thick is the material you plan to weld? This will determine how much power your welding machine needs.
- Thin materials (1-3mm) such as sheet metal, car panels or tubing are ideal for MIG welding machines. As a beginner, a MIG welder can easily handle these lighter jobs whilst providing easy control and clean welds
- Medium thickness (3-6mm) materials will require a bit more power. Many entry-level MIG and stick welders can handle this too
- Thicker materials (6mm+) like structural steel or farm equipment will need a more powerful machine like a stick welder
As a beginner, start with the materials you know you’ll be working on first - you can always change this later. Practice on 2-5mm steel and learn to control the machinery well.
3. Amperage
Not every welding machine will work with your existing power supply. Pick a welder that you know you can plug into a regular socket (230V is standard in the UK). Most beginner-friendly welding machines are designed for this. A higher amperage is required for higher-powered machines used by skilled welders. The product specification should always say what amperage is needed.
4. Budget
Of course, when choosing a welding machine, budget is an important consideration. Entry-level MIG and stick welders start from around £400.
5. Portability
Do you need to be able to easily store your machine or move it around? If welding is not your main trade or workspace is limited, you may want to look at a welding machine that is lightweight and compact enough to tuck away after use.
6. Support & spares
When getting started in welding, it’s important to know you can find consumables and be provided with help. Buying from a specialist supplier like Engweld means you’ll get all our after-sales support, advice and access to genuine parts.
What Welding Machine Is Best for Beginners
The two most common types of welding systems that we recommend for beginners are Arc Welders (suitable for use in MMA, which is often also referred to as stick welding) and MIG Welders. Here’s why…
Benefits of MIG Welders for Beginners
- Simple “point and shoot” style welding
- Cleaner, neater welds with less post-cleanup
- Easier to learn, especially on thin metals
- Ideal for garage setups or sheltered work areas
- Works well with steel and, with setup, aluminium
Benefits of Stick Welders/Arc Welders for Beginners
- Lower initial cost and fewer consumables
- Ideal for outdoor or on-site work (won’t be affected by wind)
- Works well on thicker materials and dirty or rusty metal
- Extremely portable - great for quick repairs or rural work
A Good MIG Welder for Beginners
The ESAB Rogue Em 180 Mig/Mma Welding Machine is a beginner-friendly MIG welder with an easy interface, portability and plug-and-play setup.
A Good Stick Welder for Beginners
The Lincoln Sprinter 180S Arc Welding Machine is dual-voltage (120/230V), is highly portable weighing under 9kg and is great for beginners.
So there we are, our guide to the best welding machines for beginners. If you’re torn between a few different options and unsure which one suits your project best, feel free to get in touch for expert, no-pressure advice.