TOP 15 best semi-automatic welding machines: 2021-2022 rating by price/quality and which inverter type to choose for the garage

A semi-automatic welding machine differs from conventional welding machines in that it uses special wire rather than coated electrodes. Thanks to this, the devices allow you to obtain a high-quality weld when working with a wide variety of metals. This explains the increased popularity of semi-automatic welding machines.

The price/quality ratio rating, which contains the best models of similar devices, will help you choose the right model.

When selecting semi-automatic machines, we took into account the recommendations of professional welders, user reviews and official Rostest test data.

Rating of the TOP 15 best semi-automatic welding machines for 2021-2022

AuroraPRO Overman 200

Another popular welding machine from the Aurora brand in our rating. The Overman 200 is designed for MIG and MAG gas shielded welding. There is also a “NO GAS” mode, you can weld with cored wire. The welder can regulate the welding current, voltage, adjust the inductance, penetration depth and monitor the shape of the bead.

Also, this model works perfectly at reduced voltage from 140V and above. Consumes about 6 kW. If you want to connect this device to a generator, then choose a generator with a power of 8 kVA or more. The Overman 200 produces an honest 200 Amps. The device is very compact and relatively lightweight, weighing no more than 15 kg.

Feedback from a welder:

The device is very good. Suitable for both home and work. All stated characteristics are completely true. The efficiency is high, the device does not overheat, you can cook for a long time. If you are fully equipped, you can cook aluminum with high quality. You can adjust the inductance and heat the carbon dioxide. The build quality is excellent.

How to choose a semi-automatic welding machine?

When choosing a semi-automatic welding machine, first of all you need to decide on the scope of its use..

Inexpensive devices are suitable for household use, but for a small workshop it is better to choose more expensive models with expanded functionality and advanced technical characteristics.

The main criteria for choosing a semi-automatic welding machine include:

1. Voltage and output current adjustment range . For domestic use, a device with modest characteristics will be sufficient. But, if you plan to use the device to perform a large volume of work with wire of the maximum permissible diameter, it is better to choose a device with a high level of outgoing current.
2. Power . The lower this indicator, the less network subsidence will occur during welding. To ensure that the device can operate even from a network with an unstable voltage, it is better to choose a model with modern IGBT or MOSFET transistors.
3. Dimensions and weight . This criterion is especially important if the welding is planned to be frequently transported or stored in a small room. But it should be borne in mind that compact devices usually have reduced power, although they are quite sufficient for domestic needs.

Be sure to take into account the possibility of connecting the device to a household electrical network, as well as the type and thickness of the metals with which they will work.

Spark PowerARC 230

The review of inverter-type semi-automatic welding machines is supplemented by a popular model from the Spark brand, namely PowerARC 230. This semi-automatic machine copes well with welding in a shielding gas environment and with welding without gas using flux-cored wire. The device operates with small voltage drops and produces up to 230 Amperes. For welding, you can use wire with a diameter of up to 1 mm.

TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines by price/quality for 2021-2022

Semi-automatic welding machines are often chosen for domestic use, as they not only have the necessary technical characteristics, but also an acceptable cost.

SPECIAL MAG-170 INVERTOR

This model of welding inverter is designed for semi-automatic welding at home.

The device is single-phase, so it can be connected to a household power supply without fear of voltage drop. The output current is constant, and the open circuit voltage of 56 V allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses.

The device is considered universal, as it allows you to weld metals with both coated electrodes and wire with a diameter of 0.60 to 0.80 mm.

The device is easy to use and easy to start, as it has a hot start function.

Thanks to this, even beginners will be able to carry out welding work, especially since all the nuances of the work are described in detail in the user manual.

Specifications:

• weight 9.8 kg;
• dimensions (W/H/D) 285x290x395 mm;
• power 6.40 kW.

pros

• light weight makes transportation easier;
• convenient storage due to compact dimensions;
• affordable cost;
• suitable for electrode and wire welding;
• allows for high-quality welding of metals of different thicknesses.

Minuses

• mask from the kit is of low quality;
• poor quality ground cable.

Wester MIG 140i

An inexpensive but quite functional semi-automatic welding machine is specially designed for domestic use, but with its help you can perform other work in a small auto repair shop.

The device is universal, as it allows you to obtain a high-quality weld using both manual arc and semi-automatic methods using electrode wire.

Constant output current and open circuit voltage of 55 V allows you to work with different types of steel, aluminum of different thicknesses and other metals and alloys.

You can start working immediately after purchasing the device, since everything you need is provided with the device itself: a torch, a cable with an electrode holder, a brush-hammer, a welding shield, steel welding wire and a contact tip.

Even beginners will be able to work with a semi-automatic welding machine, because all the working nuances are described in detail in the instructions.

Specifications:

• weight 9 kg;
• electrode diameter 1.60 mm;
• power 4.70 kW.

pros

• optimal price/quality ratio;
• ideal for use at home, in the garage or small car service;
• suitable for different types of welding;
• extended equipment;
• allows you to get an even and high-quality seam.

Minuses

• poor quality mask included;
• short cable.

Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N) BLACK

Some users may find the price of this welding machine too high, but it is fully compensated by its functionality and well-thought-out technical characteristics..

Professional welders consider this model to be one of the best, because it allows you to perform work using a manual arc method (using a coated electrode), welding with flux-cored wire and in shielding gases.

There is also a cheaper modification of this welding machine, but its equipment is not so extensive.

The device has an open circuit voltage of 60 V, and since the user receives a constant current output, it will be able to work with different types of metals, including thin aluminum.

The kit includes everything you need for work, including detailed user instructions.

Specifications:

• weight 13 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 225x375x502 mm;
• electrode diameter 1.50-4 mm.

pros

• ideal for household use;
• allows you to get an even and high-quality seam, regardless of the type of metal;
• everything necessary for work included;
• cooks even at low voltage;
• reliable and proven manufacturer.

Minuses

• no digital display;
• There is no carrying handle provided.

Aurora OVERMAN 180

This model of welding machine is designed for semi-automatic welding in a protected gas environment and for performing work with self-shielded flux-cored wire.

The device can operate at the maximum current level for a long time, so it can be used even in small workshops or even for simple tasks on an industrial scale.

Optimal no-load voltage and the ability to operate even when connected to a network with an unstable voltage allows the welding machine to be used for welding different types of metals.

In terms of dimensions, the model is not the most compact.

The weight is also quite impressive when compared with analogues, so you won’t be able to move the device quickly and easily, and you will have to provide enough space to store it, but these inconveniences are fully compensated by the expanded functionality.

Specifications:

• weight 15.5 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 197x466x482 mm;
• power 4.70 kW.

pros

• optimal cost, given the excellent build quality;
• convenient location of the power button;
• A thick power cable is included;
• allows you to get an even seam on metals of different thicknesses;
• simple and clear user instructions.

Minuses

• you need to adapt to the wire feed speed;
• impressive dimensions and heavy weight.

Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN

A mid-price welding machine is considered universal, as it is suitable for both manual arc and argon arc welding.

A semi-automatic welding mode is also provided, and a wide selection of wire diameters (from 0.60 to 1 mm) allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses, obtaining a perfectly even, high-quality weld.

The device belongs to single-phase welding machines . This allows you to use the device even when connected to a household power supply and work in unstable voltage conditions.

Additionally, the device has microprocessor control, which facilitates operation and makes the device suitable even for novice users.

Specifications:

• weight 12 kg;
• dimensions (W/H/D) 240x350x470 mm;
• power 6.20 kW.

pros

• easy to store due to compact dimensions;
• wide range of functions for different types of welding;
• Clear instructions make operation easy;
• optimal starting equipment;
• acceptable cost.

Minuses

• The kit includes low-quality wires;
• It is difficult to find additional components for sale.

ELAND MIG-130

The rating of semi-automatic welding machines will be incomplete if we do not add an ultra-budget model for those who are on a budget. ELAND MIG-130 is a standard budget Chinese semi-automatic, of which you can find plenty in any specialized store. However, this model is quite reliable and gets the job done.

The device requires 220V for power supply, so it is not suitable for welding in low voltage conditions. According to the manufacturer, the maximum current is 130 Amperes, which seems to be true. You can cook for no longer than 5 minutes without a break. The device weighs a little less than 20 kg, so be prepared for that. Overall, the ELAND MIG-130 is a good option for the price. It does not have any special characteristics, but it works stably and is inexpensive. What else does a beginner or summer resident need?

Feedback from a welder:

I spent a long time choosing among different welding machines. In the end I bought this one. It was necessary to digest the arches of the car. I read in reviews that the metal spatters a lot when welding, but everything was fine for me. I think it depends on the quality of the wire and the correct settings of the device. Cook stainless steel without any questions at all. For the money, this is a decent option for the home and small jobs.

TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding (MMA)

Semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding are perfect for performing household tasks and short-term work with metal. Five models were recognized as the best devices in this category.

Aurora SPEEDWAY 200 Synergic

This model of welding machine is considered universal, since it can be used to perform welding work with metals in manual arc and argon-arc welding modes.

Additionally, a semi-automatic welding mode is provided. This makes the device suitable for a wide range of jobs, including construction and auto repair.

The device can be connected to a household power supply, and the device works without failures even with an unstable voltage level in the network.

The device can be used to produce welds using coated electrodes and special welding wire.

The feed speed of the latter can be adjusted based on the type of metal and its thickness . To increase operating comfort, the device is equipped with arc afterburner and a hot start function.

Specifications:

• weight 8 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 170x300x386 mm;
• open circuit voltage 56 V.

pros

• flexible and convenient settings;
• wide selection of welding modes;
• suitable for working with different types of metal;
• convenient to transport due to its low weight and size;
• detailed user instructions.

Minuses

• some users think the price is too high;
• not always on sale.

STAVR SAU-200M

A compact and budget welding machine of domestic production can operate in manual arc and semi-automatic welding modes.

This significantly expands the scope of application of the device, so it can be used both for performing simple household tasks and for more complex work in a small production or auto repair shop.

Another feature of the device is its optimal open circuit voltage (59 V) . Thanks to this, the device can be used to work with metal with a thickness of 0.60 to 1 mm.

The manufacturer made sure that the device was as easy to use as possible.

For this purpose, the device provides anti-stick electrode, arc forced and a hot start function for easy start-up.

The kit includes all the necessary cables and accessories to get started.

Specifications:

• weight 10.4 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 205x350x420 mm;
• power 7.30 kW.

pros

• affordable cost;
• optimal technical characteristics for domestic use;
• simple and convenient adjustments;
• excellent build quality;
• optimal combination of price and functionality;
• Compact dimensions make storage easy.

Minuses

• poor quality cables included;
• Some accessories have to be purchased additionally.

RESANTA SAIPA-135

A compact, convenient and functional welding machine that can be used not only at home, but also on the road.

Despite the fact that the device body weighs a little more than 10 kg, a convenient handle is provided at the top of the case for transporting the device. The dimensions are compact, so there will be no problems with storage either.

The device is universal, as it can operate in manual arc and semi-automatic welding using special wire.

The wire diameter ranges from 0.60-0.80 mm, which allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses.

The package package is not the widest, and only includes a cable with a torch and a grounding terminal, but this is quite enough to get started.

Specifications:

• weight 9.82 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 230x350x590 mm;
• power 6.60 kW.

pros

• very easy to adjust settings;
• simple design;
• affordable price with excellent build quality;
• allows you to get a perfectly even seam;
• Doesn't take up much storage space.

Minuses

• no fan to blow out dust;
• short cables included.

Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N)

This model of welding machine is designed for semi-automatic welding in shielding gases.

The device is suitable for both manual arc welding and flux-cored wire.

Since the device is single-phase, it can even be connected to a household power supply, and the device will work without failures even with an unstable voltage level in the network.

The device can work with both coated electrodes with a diameter of 1.50-4 mm and wire, and the user can regulate the feed speed independently.

Along with the device itself, the user receives a starter kit with everything necessary to get started.

Specifications:

• weight 13 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 225x375x502 mm;
• open circuit voltage 60 V.

pros

• suitable even for beginners without welding experience;
• The kit includes everything necessary for work;
• allows you to obtain a high-quality weld, regardless of the type of metal;
• comes with a quality mask;
• acceptable cost.

Minuses

• very short cable included;
• not very convenient analog voltage setting.

Aurora SPEEDWAY 180

A universal, functional and relatively inexpensive welding machine designed to perform a wide range of work.

The device can operate in manual arc, semi-automatic and argon arc welding modes.

The open circuit voltage is quite high, so the user can work with metal of different types and thicknesses.

At the same time, the seams will remain smooth and of high quality.

The owner will be able to independently adjust the wire feed speed, focusing on the type of metal and the required characteristics of the seam.

Another advantage of the model is its light weight and compact dimensions, which facilitate storage, and a special handle on the body makes it easy to carry the device.

Specifications:

• weight 8 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 170x300x390 mm;
• power 7.10 kW.

pros

• low weight and dimensions;
• Ease of Management;
• optimal preset welding parameters;
• reasonable cost;
• excellent build quality.

Minuses

• not suitable for welding thin aluminum sheets;
• Some users have difficulty adjusting the settings.

DGM DUOMIG-250E

DGM DUOMIG-250E is an inverter-type semi-automatic welding machine designed for MMA and MIG welding. It cooks without problems both with a covered electrode and in a protective gas environment. Suitable for working with different types of steel and for body work. The device has a convenient digital display on which everything is clearly visible. The semi-automatic machine produces up to 230 Amperes and copes with welding thick metals.

Feedback from a welder:

Great device! 8 out of 10. I bought this semi-automatic 5 years ago, I cooked a lot and often, I didn’t regret it. We had to do everything. And he cooked the gates, and he cooked the bodies. Everything is working as it should. At the same time, sometimes I did not have the wire of the required diameter, and I used a thin one, plus I reinforced the structure with a channel. In the end, everything is fine, no complaints. I am very pleased with the device; in all the years of use there have been no problems. The only negative: sometimes the button on the sleeve gets stuck, but this is not critical after five years of use.

TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines using argon welding (TIG)

Semi-automatic welding machines for argon welding are rightfully considered one of the most convenient and functional, as they allow you to perform a wide range of work in everyday life and in the home workshop.

Fubag IRMIG 200 SYN

This welding machine belongs to the middle price category, and has all the necessary characteristics and functions for full-fledged household use..

The device can operate in manual arc, argon arc and semi-automatic welding modes, which significantly expands the scope of its application.

In addition, the device can work with metals of different types and thicknesses, and allows you to obtain a perfectly smooth and high-quality seam, even if the user has no experience in performing such work.

The device is a single-phase type, so it can be easily connected to a household power supply.

The device allows you to obtain a stable arc, even if the voltage in the network is unstable.

For more convenient operation, microprocessor control is provided, and all the nuances of operation are described in detail in the instructions.

Specifications:

• weight 12 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 320x440x550 mm;
• open circuit voltage 65 V.

pros

• advanced functionality;
• can work in different modes;
• affordable cost;
• wide range of settings;
• High quality burner included.

Minuses

• Only one tip is included in the kit;
• Not very clear instructions.

FoxWeld InverMig 18

This model of welding machine allows you to weld metals with direct current.

The device uses inverter technology for converting and controlling welding current.

It allows you to increase the power and performance of the device, but at the same time the device itself is lightweight and reduced in size.

This greatly facilitates storage, and with the help of a plastic handle on the body, the device can be easily carried.

The manufacturer has taken care of maximum ease of operation of the device . The welding machine can operate either from an electrode with a diameter of 1.60-4 mm, or from a wire (0.60-1 mm in diameter).

The device comes with all the tools and accessories needed to get started.

Specifications:

• weight 20 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 197x466x480 mm;
• power 5.60 kW.

pros

• optimal technical characteristics for domestic use;
• reasonable cost;
• high-quality body assembly;
• wide range of settings;
• works even with unstable network voltage.

Minuses

• short hose included;
• It is not very convenient to regulate the wire feed speed.

RESANTA SAIPA-190MF

One of the most successful domestic models of welding machines . She got high

assessments of professional welders, as it allows you to work in one of three modes: manual arc, semi-automatic and argon arc welding.

The device is also suitable for welding metal using electrodes (1.60-5 mm in diameter) or special wire with a diameter (0.60-0.80 mm), the latter being included in the kit.

Despite the wide range of functions and flexible settings, the welding machine is considered suitable for beginners.

The manufacturer has provided the device with detailed instructions, which describe all the nuances of operation, and simple controls and adjustments to settings make it much easier to use.

Specifications:

• weight 11.26 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 215x330x445 mm;
• open circuit voltage 80 V.

pros

• reliable and proven domestic manufacturer;
• high power and performance;
• There are three welding modes;
• Compact dimensions make storage easy;
• adequate cost.

Minuses

• inconvenient mode switch;
• body materials are of poor quality.

Fubag IRMIG 180 SYN

One of the best welding machines on the market today . In addition to the argon mode

welding, the device provides manual arc and semi-automatic modes.

Thanks to this, the device is suitable for both household and semi-professional use..

The technical characteristics of the device are sufficient for welding metals of different types and thicknesses without harming the quality of the seam.

The manufacturer made sure that the welding machine was extremely easy to use, and provided it with a convenient and well-thought-out microprocessor control, as well as clear instructions that describe in detail all the features of working with the device.

Specifications:

• weight 12 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 320x440x550 mm;
• open circuit voltage 65 V.

pros

• adequate cost;
• flexible settings;
• allows you to obtain a high quality seam;
• high-quality body assembly;
• extended equipment.

Minuses

• some users have difficulties with the settings;
• not always on sale.

Svarog PRO MIG 200

This domestically produced welding machine is considered one of the most expensive on the market, but its cost is fully compensated by its excellent technical characteristics and thoughtful functionality..

In particular, the device provides three welding modes: argon arc, manual arc and semi-automatic. Thanks to this, the device can be used not only at home or in the garage, but even in small production or in a car repair shop.

In addition to standard features, the device also provides additional functions for easier operation..

These include electrode anti-stick, arc force and hot start function.

You can start working immediately after purchasing the device, because all the necessary parts are provided in the kit.

Specifications:

• weight 12.5 kg;
• size (W/H/D) 185x370x485 mm;
• open circuit voltage 53 V.

pros

• allows you to get perfectly smooth and high-quality seams;
• There are three welding modes;
• easy use and flexible settings;
• excellent build quality and components;
• Suitable for home and professional use.

Minuses

• costs more than analogues;
• Some users consider the package to be insufficient for full-fledged operation.

Solaris MULTIMIG-225

The first semi-automatic machine in our rating is the MULTIMIG-225 model from the Solaris brand. The device is not cheap, but it boasts excellent technical characteristics. The semi-automatic machine produces an honest 220 Amps when welding in MIG mode and 200 Amps when welding in MMA mode. This is enough to perform most welding work in a country house or small workshop.

MULTIMIG-225 works perfectly even with unstable or low voltage, which is very important when welding in the country. The heart of the device is modern IGBT transistors, thanks to which the semi-automatic machine can boast of great functionality. For example, the machine is capable of not only MMA and MIG welding, but also spot welding under certain settings. In short, a universal assistant in everyday life and during repairs.

The device comes with a burner with a Euro connector. The body has a convenient metal carrying handle. The body itself is also made of metal and is resistant to corrosion.

Below is one of the real reviews from a welder:

I spent a long time choosing a welding machine and noticed that my neighbor had this exact model. I used it a couple of times and was pleased with the results. I bought myself exactly the same Solaris. I am 100% confident in him! The seams turn out neat, just as needed. The metal does not spatter, the arc burns well. I use it and enjoy the work.

WATT CombiMIG 250

Another semi-automatic welding machine on our list is the budget WATT MMA 200. Unfortunately, it is not easy to find on sale now. But it is still available in some online stores.

The device is designed for welding in MIG/MAG mode, and does the job well. There is also the possibility of conventional MMA welding with a coated electrode. The power supply requires a voltage of 220V, but as practice shows, it works great even with small drawdowns. It produces up to 230 Amps, which is not enough for a practicing welder, but just right for a beginner.

This welding machine is very compact, weighs little, and has a convenient handle for carrying. The body of the device is quite strong and durable, but we still recommend treating it with some attention. The arc ignites easily and burns stably. The efficiency is high, you can cook for a long time.

Reviews from welders:

The device cooks excellently, despite its modest price. Any type of steel can be welded. During the entire period of use, the semiautomatic device never overheated, which surprised me. The kit includes cables and a holder for electrodes. They are of good quality and suitable for a beginner. For 2 years of work, no complaints.

A very good device for the money. I have been using it for 5 years, the flight is normal. Never let me down. Cooks even at low voltage.

Design and principle of operation

A semi-automatic welding machine is an electromechanical device that uses filler wire instead of electrodes. It is supplied to the welding zone automatically and continuously, eliminating the need to change electrodes during operation. The solder melts under the flame of a gas torch, forming an even weld. There are models of stationary and mobile types. These small-format devices are purchased for personal purposes. To improve the quality of the seam and reduce scale, a protective atmosphere is created. But this is an optional condition; flux solder is cooked in the open air.

Welding is called semi-automatic because the process is partially mechanized: the additive supply is automated, and the welder regulates all other parameters independently. The device operates only in a closed circuit, one of the poles is connected to the filler wire, the other is brought out to the clamping device, which is attached to the metal being welded.

The principle of working with equipment

A semi-automatic device that can be used in a garage consists of the following elements:

• transformer;
• mechanism for feeding wire;
• welding sleeve;
• burner with wire;
• nozzle or conductive tip;
• inert gas supply system.

The operating principle of such equipment comes down to the following: a current is constantly supplied to the wire, which heats and melts the metal in a limited area. At the same time, an inert gas enters the treated area, which prevents oxidation of the metal, which improves the quality of the final weld.

These devices are called semi-automatic because the electrodes are supplied automatically, and a person is directly involved in welding the material.

Before starting work, one clamp is attached to the metal, and the second is attached to the sliding tip of the torch. The polarity and current strength are set depending on the type of metal being processed.

MIKKELI MIG/MMA-200E

An inexpensive inverter semi-automatic device that is rarely talked about. But in vain. This welder can be found on sale without any problems. For some craftsmen, this is the best semi-automatic welding machine in its class.

The device is designed for manual arc welding, as well as for welding in MIG/MAG modes. It operates from a regular power supply and does not require special conditions to power it. Produces from 40 to 200 Amps of welding current, this is enough for most household tasks. Works without interruption for 60% of the entire welding cycle. It's not much, but it's enough for a summer house or home.

Welding with electrodes with a diameter from 1.6 mm to 4 mm is possible. For welding wire, use material with a diameter of 0.6 to 1 mm. The wire feed speed can be adjusted from 21 to 13 meters per minute.

The weight of the device does not exceed 16 kg. The dimensions are compact and can be transported without problems.

When welding at low current, the arc is stable and continuous; you can work with thin sheets of low-carbon, stainless and alloy steel. At the same time, the quality of the seams will remain excellent for this class of devices. The device does not spark, the arc does not “walk”, the weld pool is homogeneous. Overall, this model is great for home work or a small workshop.

What else to pay attention to

Among the additional points, we recommend paying attention to the following features of semi-automatic welding machines:

1. Number of rollers.
   There are 2 or 4. The upper rollers press the wire (driven), and the lower rollers support and push (driving). A mechanism with 4 rollers delivers the additive more evenly, without slipping or jerking. For particularly critical seams, choose this option. For a summer house or non-critical structures, a device with 2 rollers is sufficient.
2. Wire feed adjustment method.

   It can be stepped or smooth. The stepped one sets the wire to run at preset speeds of the electric motor. Smooth allows you to more accurately regulate the feed so that the wire does not burn in the air and does not “make holes” in the weld pool.

3. Pulse function.

   Provides welding on a base current with periodic pulses of increased strength. Base and pulse current amps and pulse frequency are separately adjustable. The function is useful when semi-automatically welding aluminum. Thanks to the base current, heat input is reduced and workpiece deformation is reduced. With the help of a pulsed current, the oxide film is well penetrated.

4. Other welding modes.

   If you periodically need to cut metal or burn a hole in a plane, a semi-automatic machine with the ability to switch to MMA welding will be useful. A holder is installed in it and the gas supply is turned off. For accurate welding of thin stainless steel and narrow seams on other metals, it is practical to buy a MIG machine with the ability to switch to TIG welding. There are “3 in 1” models that combine all methods.

Of course, buyers pay attention to the price of the product, but the manufacturer is also important. For example, the service life of semi-automatic devices BARSVELD, ESAB, Lincoln Electric, Fronius is much longer than that of cheap MIG inverters. With the same declared characteristics of branded models, actual indicators rarely deviate from the passport ones.

Tips to follow

What does a gas torch for a welding machine look like?
Some tips from experts to understand how to choose a semi-automatic welding machine for specific needs: some machines have Euro connectors on the torches, which are not suitable for work everywhere. They can be changed immediately.

• Check the wire pulling mechanism. If it has a low-power engine, the mechanism will quickly break down. And the rollers for the wire must be of normal size - no less than 30 x 22 x 10 mm.
• There are models in which the inductance is regulated strictly and automatically: either “strongly” or “weakly”. It is better to avoid such devices, because the adjustment should be soft and smooth - the quality of the weld depends on this.
• It is better to adjust the inductance not manually, but digitally. In this case, it is much easier and more correct to configure the remaining parameters.
• An additional advantage is always the automatic shutdown of the device during overload.

SVAROG REAL MIG 200

Russian semi-automatic welding machines are also worthy of the attention of welders. In this rating, we decided to talk about one excellent model from Svarog - REAL MIG 200. This is a well-known and popular device that has long established itself as a good option for a summer house and workshop.

With this machine you can easily weld aluminum and stainless steel, carry out MMA and MIG/MAG welding. The built-in wire feeder is reliable and easy to use. It can be used to run wire. The arc burns stably even with significant voltage drops.

MMA and MIG/MAG modes work at 5 plus. To cook using the MMA method, you need to connect an electrode holder to the device. The maximum current is 160 Amperes. This is not enough for serious work, but it is enough for a home craftsman. For welding, you can use electrodes with a diameter of up to 4 mm, so you can weld even thick metal.

But this device is at its best in MIG/MAG mode. You can weld all types of metals: ferrous, non-ferrous, various types of steel. You can set the welding current up to 200 Amps, which is enough even for a small workshop. The penetrations are deep, there are no defects. The device operates very stably and is not afraid of voltage surges.