Welding inverter for home: rating of the best in 2021-2022 according to owner reviews. Which company should you choose?

Welding work is an occupation not only for professional welders, but also for ordinary people who do not have special education. And, of course, every man wants to deal with good equipment that will last for many years and help cope with any tasks.

A welding inverter for home and garden is an excellent alternative to bulky machines. They are much more convenient and easier to operate than conventional transformer ones. However, among the large assortment of models on the market, it is difficult to choose a high-quality welding converter. Some are attracted by their low price, others by their power, others by their degree of protection, etc. Our review contains the best models that have received a lot of positive reviews and high ratings from their owners.

Comparison of prices and features

When choosing an inverter welding machine for your home, it is important to consider not only its price, but also its technical characteristics. You can compare the main indicators in our table.

Do you have a welder's license?

Yes

29.79%

No

70.21%

Voted: 47

Russian manufacturers

When selecting a unit for home or commercial use, you need to know that the main physical, technical and price indicators of the device are influenced by the country, manufacturer of circuits and fuses.

• Welding inverters of Russian production Diold, Iskra. They have a modest set of functions, but are considered reliable. Designed for long-term operation at maximum loads, some models can produce a stable arc during voltage surges, as well as with a constant deviation of 15-30%. The cost of such units is 20-35% lower when compared with analogues assembled from foreign components.
• Units with foreign circuits. Can be classified as a semi-professional class. Many factories enter into agreements with foreign factories for the supply of components and circuits for certain models of their equipment. Here you can highlight the inverters Svarog, Kedr, Interskol (has its own plant in Spain). The cost of such devices is slightly higher, but the functional component is in no way inferior to Italian and German models.

Russian-made inverter welding machines are classified according to the principle of their main purpose:

1. Household appliances. Can be connected to a regular power supply with a voltage of 220V. Designed for small volumes of work. Output power ranges from 120-200W (depending on the maximum value). Excellent for welding cast iron, carbon steel and stainless steel.
2. Professional welders. The main direction of the Russian manufacturer. Power is 200-320W. Main purpose: carrying out installation and repair work, can function in aggressive environments, as well as in the Far North. They are popular with installation and construction teams.
3. Industrial devices. They are used to create reliable, high-strength (critical) seams. They provide maximum performance throughout the entire period of operation. They have a power of 250-500W.

How to choose an inverter for a summer house or home?

When thinking about purchasing a welding converter, the buyer first needs to know what technical characteristics to pay attention to. Main selection criteria:

• current strength, on which the maximum diameter of the electrodes depends;
• duration of continuous welding. For household appliances it is about 5–10 minutes;
• sensitivity to voltage drops, if the deviation is no more than 10–15%;
• protection against voltage surges - with high surges reaching 20–30%;
• presence of a protective function against overheating;
• open circuit voltage, which affects how easily the arc will ignite and how stable the discharge will be. The higher the voltage, the better;
• the presence of additional functions, for example, “anti-stick”, “hot start”, “arc force”, a display for easy settings and control of the inverter operation process.

Which welding inverter is the best to use?

Before moving on to the TOP of the best inverter devices, let's look at their varieties by design, principle of operation and scope of use.

Inverter for manual arc welding (MMA)

Principle of operation. Inverters for RDS are made in a single housing and are distinguished by compact dimensions within the range of 30x20x15 cm. Most often they weigh 3-6 kg and are convenient for working at heights or along a long structure. The welder simply hangs the machine on his shoulder and moves with it. Inside the inverter there is a step-down transformer, a circuit board with switches and a diode bridge. Receiving 220 or 380 V alternating current from the network, the equipment increases its frequency hundreds of times and converts it to direct current.

MMA inverters are available with two connectors to which the holder and ground cables are connected. The clip with the value “-” clings to the product. A coated electrode is attached to “+”. Closing the contacts leads to the initiation of an electric arc. The distance between the end of the electrode and the surface of the product must be maintained within 2-5 mm so that the rod does not stick. The filler metal fills the weld pool to form a weld. The electrode coating, when melting, releases a gas that protects the molten metal from the external environment.

Diagram of the manual arc welding (MMA) process.

In what case is it better to use. Due to their simplicity and compactness, MMA inverters are often used in the country, in the courtyard of a private house and small workshops. But it works slowly (you need to constantly change electrodes, clean the seams from slag crust), so it is suitable for tasks where the final result and efficiency are a priority, rather than manufacturing time (make your own fence, weld a hinge on a gate, make a greenhouse, etc.) .d.).

Inverter for manual arc welding.

Inverter for semi-automatic welding (MIG/MAG)

Principle of operation. MIG/MAG inverters are available in a single housing or separate housing with a feed mechanism. The wire wound around the bobbin here plays the role of an electrode, closing the circuit to form an electric arc. But since the additive is supplied continuously from the drum, the seams are long and even, without obvious transitions. The welder operates a torch, inside which current, wire and shielding gas are supplied. The latter can be inert (argon, helium) or with active protection (carbon dioxide). The advantage of MIG inverters is the fast speed of seam execution and high quality of connection. The absence of slag crust does not require subsequent cleaning.

Diagram of the semi-automatic welding process (MIG/MAG).

In what case is it better to use. Such equipment is suitable for car body repairs, mass production of barbecues, doors, gates, and containers. But you need to be prepared for additional costs for a gas cylinder.

Inverter for semi-automatic welding.

Inverter for TIG welding

Principle of operation. Inverters for TIG welding are very similar to models for MMA, only they have a built-in gas supply unit and a connector for connecting the torch control connector. Welding is carried out with a non-consumable electrode (usually tungsten with impurities). Thanks to the sharp sharpening and constant arc distance, the seam is narrow and even. The weld pool is protected from the external environment by inert gas (argon, helium) supplied from the nozzle. The joint surface does not require cleaning or machining.

Such inverters can operate on direct or alternating current. In the first case, this makes it possible to weld stainless steel, black steel and cast iron. In the second case, excellent seams are obtained on aluminum and copper.

Diagram of the TIG welding process.

In what case is it better to use. It is practical to buy a TIG inverter for the manufacture of structures made of stainless steel or non-ferrous metals. This is in demand at large and small enterprises in the chemical and food industries, car services (repairing bumper bars on SUVs, welding cracks in the crankcase, cooling units), and in the production of heated towel rails.

Inverter for argon arc welding.

Universal welding inverters

This category of inverters contains equipment that combines several welding methods. For example, there are devices for working with coated electrodes and feeding wire from a reel (MMA + MIG). The body has separate connectors for connecting a semi-automatic burner and an electrode holder.

Such an inverter is in demand for car repairs or the manufacture of metal structures, where a high welding speed is required, but from time to time you need to cut something with electric welding or put a seam in an inconvenient place (it is inconvenient to crawl with a torch, but a thin electrode can be bent and inserted).

There are also MMA+TIG inverters. They may have a full-fledged connector for connecting an argon torch with a button (pressing the button simultaneously starts the supply of gas and voltage), or the TIG torch is attached only optionally. In the second case, you will need a valve model, where gas is supplied by opening the tap, and to ignite the electrode you need to touch it to the surface. This is less convenient and is suitable for periodic welding of stainless steel. When mass-producing products, you need to buy an inverter with separate connectors and a built-in burner. The presence of MMA welding will allow you to weld ferrous metal 10-20 mm thick if necessary.

FoxWeldMaster 202

The next inverter that was tested is economical in operation, compact and lightweight. His field of activity is manual arc welding of stainless steel and structural steel products using a stick electrode under direct current conditions. This “Fox” is well known to professional welders, since this unit is one of the long-lived inverters.

It demonstrates consistently reliable operation and features the same layout as other models included in the first generation of inverters.

At the same time, on the test bench it is this “Master 202” that shows the best results, which gives reason to distinguish it favorably from the general mass of tools. This applies both to the minimum value of the welding current and to the minimum mains voltage, and the arc is ignited here easier and faster. It would seem like little things, but in real work they are very important.

Experts believe that this successful combination of small but pleasant advantages is due to the length of time this model has been on the market: the technology has been proven, the components are of consistently good quality, and the installation is neat. Pleasant little things start with a convenient handle for transportation, the frame is durable, connected with bolts.

Here you have the opportunity to choose a tool from the same company, both more expensive and more modern - that is, for any budget and work capabilities.

Is it worth buying

Does it make sense to buy cheap inverters for welding? Including those discussed in this article. Our opinion is that yes, it definitely makes sense. These devices are simple, inexpensive, and even a novice welder can handle them.

We can say that these are bestsellers, because they have a lot of reviews and reviews online. Therefore, you can easily explore any model from the list on your own and settle on the more suitable one.

Just avoid mega cheap setups. Today in any welding equipment store you can see models even cheaper than $50. New and very attractive.

But it should be noted that in almost all cases, buying the cheapest model of all leads to constant problems. Yes, the case may look great, but nothing has been produced with such an inverter yet.

Semiconductor triodes also burn out in no time. When this device breaks down, the best thing you can do is buy a new one, not so budget-friendly.

As they say: “The miser pays twice.” So add another 50-70 dollars and choose a better option.

The smallest

Wert MMA 180N

pros

• Compactness
• Light weight
• Low cost
• Cables and shoulder strap included

Minuses

• Low power

From 2,700 ₽

One of the smallest welding inverters weighing 2.4 kg. It has average characteristics for its class and IP21S protection level. Uses electrodes with a diameter from 1.60 to 4 mm. Power is 3.70 kW. Suitable for most jobs, but obviously not enough for professional use.

ELITECH IS 120N

pros

• Compactness
• Ease
• Suitable for argon
• Neat assembly
• Does not overheat during operation

Minuses

• Poor quality wires
• Anti-stick function does not work well

From 4,600 ₽

Welding mini-inverter with direct current power of 3.70 kW. The diameter of the electrode used varies from 1.60 to 3 mm. The declared anti-stick function does not work very well, which can be a number of inconveniences for a novice welder. The functions of hot start and arc afterburner are provided.

The most powerful

Wester TIG 220

pros

• Produces good current
• There is power reserve
• The arc burns steadily
• The electrode does not stick

Minuses

• Not very good cables included

From 14,000 ₽

A device with compact dimensions and light weight. The assembly is reliable. Allows you to cook any surface with argon. Produces power of 9.5 kW. Cooks quickly and evenly. The device weighs about 8 kg. Electrode diameter from 1.60 to 5 mm. It ignites an arc at a high frequency, which allows you to achieve what you want in just one touch.

Fubag IN 316 T

pros

• Multifunctionality
• Three-phase power
• High power
• Good level of insulation

Minuses

• High price
• Heavy weight

From 40,000 ₽

A model with adjustable arc force that is capable of welding even the most difficult materials. A power of 10 kW is enough to carry out any work. The device produces a maximum welding current of 255 A during continuous operation. It supports working with electrodes up to 6 mm in diameter.

Results

This was all the information about decent and affordable household inverters. We created the list based on real reviews from masters, as well as our personal experience.

In the ranking, we do not single out a favorite, because everything is individual. We advise you to buy the device that you find in your city, with a guarantee.

And if you are choosing your first welding machine, then you definitely shouldn’t choose based on the characteristics, because you won’t notice any difference in performance.

And after a while you will be able to determine what you would like to change and, already having experience and skills, choose a more powerful inverter. Good luck in your work!

Argon arc welding type

Fubag IN 226

pros

• High quality build
• Ignition of the arc by touch
• Light weight
• Availability of all necessary functions

Minuses

• Anti-stick doesn't work well

From 15,600 ₽

The top of 2022 will start with a mid-class welding inverter, equipped with all the necessary functions. There is the possibility of hot start and arc forcing. Additionally, the hot start can be adjusted, thus adjusting the device to specific operating conditions. The weight of the device is only 3.5 kg.

Aurora SPEEDWAY 180

pros

• Well-chosen welding parameters in the firmware
• Small dimensions
• Relative lightness
• Easy to use

Minuses

• Not suitable for thin aluminum
• Lack of error code information

From 29,000 ₽

Inverter for home or garage use. A decent device that works with thick wire. With a power of 7.10 kW, it ensures stable arc operation even with intensive use. Equipped with a MIG torch; a cable with a ground clamp and a cable with an electrode holder. Additionally, there is an anti-stick function that improves the quality of work.

Solaris MULTIMIG-228 (MIG-MAG-TIG) with TIG torch

pros

• Metal wire drawing system
• Heated gearbox socket
• Good equipment
• Functionality
• Relatively low cost

Minuses

• Lack of instructions

From 26,300 ₽

An excellent device in terms of price-quality ratio. The device is not professional, but is quite suitable for beginner welders. The model will easily withstand periodic work at home. The settings are simple and clear. For its price it has good characteristics and durability.

BestWeldGlobus 180

The inverter showed itself in tests as a tool intended for real welding professionals. Representatives of the Best model range have proven themselves when working under low pressure conditions. Moreover, among them you can choose those samples that have a price significantly lower than the model described.

Read also: How to strengthen a corner from deflection

Testing showed the excellent capabilities of the 180th Globe. For convenient carrying there is a suitcase, approximately the same as the one used by the creators of the Telwin company. The inverter has a folding handle and a strap for easy transportation; completeness is also ensured by a good-quality mass clamp, thick, pleasant-to-touch wires, and a large collapsible mask, which experts advise replacing with an analogue of smaller sizes.

The Globus 180 inverter has two fans and a radiator located between them, which works like a cooler. All elements of the vertical board are on one side. The installation is dense and neat, as well as convenient large parts.

Using a high-quality digital indicator, you can quickly and conveniently set the required welding current parameters. During testing, it produced, instead of the declared parameters within the range of 5-180, a range of 9-178, but such an error is insignificant. The 180th model of the Globe shows itself perfectly on the stand. The device is distinguished by reliable operation until the moment the protective system is triggered; at this moment the voltage readings were about 160 V.

Arc ignition and arc retention are better than all other models tested. An electrode with a diameter of 4 millimeters ignites at 40 A!

Experts, assessing all these advantages of the inverter, unanimously place it among the most unpretentious and confidently operating. And the low parameters of the minimum welding current provide every reason to use this tool for body repair and other types of welding that require a certain finesse.

Master's review

I bought myself such a device for welding work at the dacha. From time to time there was a need to cook something. At first I used my neighbor’s welder, but I quickly got tired of carrying it back and forth.

I decided that it was time to get my own, I chose this model and was pleased. The inverter welds perfectly with three, but it will also handle four. There have been no complaints so far.

Inexpensive models (up to 4000 rub.)

Eurolux IWM-190

pros

• Ease
• Compactness
• Convenient power key
• Doesn't get hot when working
• Suitable for three and four

Minuses

• Short cable lengths

From 3,900 ₽

A small, budget model that can surprise even an experienced welder. The “toy” case contains good stuffing, allowing you to comfortably carry out work of varying degrees of complexity. The cables are quite short (no more than a meter), but if you hang the inverter on your shoulder using a special belt, this drawback is somewhat mitigated.

Wert SWI 190

pros

• Easy
• Cooks well
• Cheapness
• Small dimensions
• Easy to set up and use

Minuses

• Short cables

From 3,000 ₽

A good option for occasional home use. Hardly suitable for professional level work. For little money, the user receives a high-quality machine with the ability to weld various surfaces. The power is small: only 3.50 kW. But for beginner and intermediate levels the work is quite enough.