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10 Best Stick Welders 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

YESWELDER MIG-205DS PRO MIG Welder, 200Amp 110/220V Dual Voltage MIG Welding Machine, 5 in 1 Gas MIG/Flux Core MIG/Spool Gun MIG/Lift TIG/Stick Multiprocess Aluminum MIG Welder, Spool Gun Compatible

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,429
Duty Cycle
Input Voltage
Portability

Most important from
1952 reviews

Duty Cycle
The duty cycle may not be as high as more expensive models, but it's sufficient for homeowner use.
Input Voltage
This little welder is a powerhouse, easily burning a bead into a 3/16 plate even on 110 volts.
Portability
The YESWELDER MIG-205DS PRO is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store.

The YESWELDER MIG-205DS PRO is a versatile welding machine capable of handling multiple welding processes including stick welding, MIG, flux core MIG, spool gun MIG, and lift TIG. It's suitable for hobbyists and professionals looking for a multipurpose machine. Its amperage range is quite broad, going from 30 to 205 amps, which gives flexibility for different welding tasks.

The digital display and IGBT inverter technology contribute to stable performance and precise control over welding parameters. Its duty cycle is decent, though more intensive users might find it limiting under heavy workloads. Dual input voltage (110/220V) enhances convenience, making it adaptable for various power sources. Portability is a strong suit as it weighs around 36 pounds and has compact dimensions, which is beneficial for those needing to move the welder around different work sites.

Electrode compatibility is another plus, supporting various types including aluminum with the use of a spool gun, which needs to be purchased separately. Arc stability is enhanced by synergic control, automatically adjusting voltage and wire feeding speed. On the downside, some users might find the need to purchase extra accessories, like the lift TIG torch and spool gun, an additional cost. Additionally, while the machine offers safety features like over-current, over-voltage, and over-heat protection, the initial setup might be complex for beginners.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,429
Duty Cycle
Input Voltage
Portability

Most important from
1952 reviews

Duty Cycle
The duty cycle may not be as high as more expensive models, but it's sufficient for homeowner use.
Input Voltage
This little welder is a powerhouse, easily burning a bead into a 3/16 plate even on 110 volts.
Portability
The YESWELDER MIG-205DS PRO is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and store.
#2

Miller 907757 Multimatic 220 AC/DC Multiprocess Welder - Versatile Multi-Process MIG, Flux-Cored & TIG Welder Machine - Portable Welding Machine with MIG Gun, TIG Torch & Multi-Voltage Plug 120V&240V

Rating
8.8
Input Voltage

Most important from
46 reviews

Input Voltage
Exceptionally powerful and easy to program, especially with the 220V option.

The Miller 907757 Multimatic 220 AC/DC Multiprocess Welder stands out with its versatility, allowing you to handle MIG, flux-cored, stick, and TIG welding processes. This all-in-one capability makes it a practical choice for those who need a multi-process welder. The welder's QuickTech feature automatically adjusts settings and determines polarity, saving you time and reducing the need for manual adjustments.

The Auto-Set Elite and Pro-Set features streamline setup, ensuring consistent and high-quality welds, which is great for both beginners and experienced welders. This adds to the machine's user-friendliness and efficiency on the job. You can use the welder with both 120V and 240V power sources, enhancing its flexibility and suitability for various environments, including residential use and job sites with generators outputting 10,000 watts or more.

At 94 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might limit its portability despite it being marketed as portable. It's also backed by a range of accessories, including a MIG gun, TIG torch, and more, which adds value to the package. However, its price point and the specialized nature of its components might be more suited for those who are looking for a long-term investment in their welding equipment. The welder works effectively with different electrodes and provides stable arc performance, making it reliable for a range of welding tasks. The Miller 907757 is a solid choice for those needing a robust, versatile, and efficient welding machine.

Rating
8.8
Input Voltage

Most important from
46 reviews

Input Voltage
Exceptionally powerful and easy to program, especially with the 220V option.
#3

Miller 907693 Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder - Versatile Multi-Process MIG, Flux-Cored & TIG Welder Machine - Portable Welding Machine with Wire Feeder, MIG Gun & Multi-Voltage Plug for 120V&240V

The Miller 907693 Multimatic 215 is a versatile multiprocess welder that supports MIG, flux-cored, stick, and DC TIG welding. This makes it ideal for users looking to perform a variety of welding tasks, especially in industrial settings. It can weld up to 3/8" mild steel, which is sufficient for most general welding needs. The amperage range is suitable for various materials and offers flexibility in application.

The intuitive design, featuring Auto Spool Gun Detect and Auto-Set Elite, makes it easy to fine-tune settings, which is a plus for both beginners and experienced welders. The Smooth-Start technology ensures smooth and spatter-free MIG starts, enhancing the welding experience. The welder also features an angled cast-aluminum drive system that provides smooth feeding and quick wire changes, improving efficiency.

Portability is a strong suit of this machine, weighing in at 38 lbs and featuring a multi-voltage plug that allows it to connect to both 120V and 240V outlets. This means it can be used in various locations, including those with generators of 10,000 watts or higher. On the downside, at 55 pounds, it may still be a bit heavy for some users to manage easily. Also, the duty cycle is not explicitly mentioned, which could be a concern for those looking to use it for extended periods without breaks. Finally, while it comes with essential accessories, the product's higher price point might be a barrier for hobbyists or those on a budget.

Buying Guide for the Best Stick Welders

Choosing the right stick welder can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you're new to welding. Stick welders, also known as Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) machines, are versatile and can be used for a variety of welding tasks. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they impact performance. By considering your specific requirements and the types of projects you'll be working on, you can make an informed decision.
Amperage RangeAmperage range refers to the range of electrical current the welder can produce. This is important because different materials and thicknesses require different amperage levels. Lower amperage (20-100 amps) is suitable for thin materials like sheet metal, while higher amperage (100-250 amps) is needed for thicker materials like structural steel. To pick the right one, consider the types of projects you'll be working on. If you plan to weld a variety of materials, a welder with a wide amperage range will be more versatile.
Duty CycleThe duty cycle indicates how long a welder can operate continuously before needing to cool down. It is usually expressed as a percentage of a 10-minute period. For example, a 20% duty cycle at 150 amps means the welder can run for 2 minutes at 150 amps before needing an 8-minute rest. This spec is important for productivity and efficiency. If you have long welding sessions, a higher duty cycle (40-60%) is preferable. For occasional or hobbyist use, a lower duty cycle (20-30%) may be sufficient.
Input VoltageInput voltage refers to the electrical power required to run the welder. Stick welders typically come in 120V, 240V, or dual voltage options. 120V welders can be plugged into standard household outlets and are suitable for light-duty tasks. 240V welders require a special outlet and are better for heavy-duty welding. Dual voltage welders offer flexibility, allowing you to switch between 120V and 240V depending on the job. Choose based on the power availability in your workspace and the type of welding you'll be doing.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the welder around. This is important if you need to transport the welder to different job sites or move it around your workshop. Lightweight and compact models are easier to carry and store, making them ideal for mobile welders or those with limited space. However, more portable models may have lower power output. Consider your need for mobility versus the power requirements of your projects when choosing a welder.
Electrode CompatibilityElectrode compatibility refers to the types of welding rods the welder can use. Different electrodes are suited for different materials and welding positions. Common electrodes include E6010, E6011, E6013, and E7018, each with its own characteristics. Ensure the welder you choose is compatible with the electrodes you plan to use. If you work with a variety of materials, a welder that supports multiple electrode types will offer greater versatility.
Arc StabilityArc stability refers to how steady and consistent the welding arc is during operation. A stable arc produces cleaner welds with less spatter and is easier to control, especially for beginners. Welders with advanced arc control features provide better stability, making them suitable for precision work. If you're new to welding or require high-quality welds, look for a welder with good arc stability.

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