8 Best Flux Core Welders for Beginners [2023 Ranked]

The best flux core welders have sufficient amperage range to handle any job you will tackle, a high enough duty cycle that you don’t lose too much time, intuitive controls, and are dual voltage.

The Hobart Handler 140 is my top choice because it is both powerful and versatile for a wide range of tasks. It features simple controls and durable construction with a smooth arc. It is ideal for beginner welders looking for an affordable and reliable flux core welding machine.

Flux core welding machines are ideal for beginners because you don’t need to think about gas or leasing bottles. You can buy a pack of flux core wires and get started. They are generally cheaper than traditional MIG welders and are more portable.

Selecting from the hundreds of models of flux core welding machines can be difficult, so I have narrowed down your list to the top performers based on my personal experience. Some welding machines I own, some I have borrowed, and some I have used in friend’s workshops.

1. Hobart Handler 140 MIG Welder

The Hobart Handler 140 MIG welder is a powerful and versatile machine designed for beginners and experienced welders. It is a compact and portable welder that can be used for various applications, including auto body work, household repairs, and light fabrication.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 115V
• Amperage Range: 25-140A
• Duty Cycle: 20% at 90A
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 40-700 IPM
• Weld Thickness Range: 24 gauge up to 1/4 inch
• Weight: 57 pounds

Pros

• Easy to set up and use, even for beginners
• Durable and well-built construction
• Can be used for a wide range of applications
• Smooth and consistent arc performance
• Comes with a regulator and a spool of wire, making it ready to use out of the box

Cons

• Limited duty cycle, which may not be suitable for larger welding projects
• Only suitable for use with 115V power supply
• The wire feed mechanism may occasionally jam
• Lacks advanced features found in more expensive welders, such as a spool gun for welding aluminum

Suitable For

• DIY projects
• Household repairs
• Auto body work
• Light fabrication

Things I Like:

As an experienced welder, I appreciate the Hobart Handler 140 MIG welder’s ease of use and consistent arc performance. The machine is very user-friendly, with simple controls that are easily adjusted.

I also appreciate the durable construction of the machine, which ensures that it can withstand regular use over time.

Things I Don’t Like:

While the Hobart Handler 140 MIG welder is a great machine overall, it does have some limitations that may not be suitable for all projects. For example, the limited duty cycle may be a problem for larger welding projects. The lack of advanced features may be a drawback for more experienced welders who require greater flexibility and control.

The duty cycle of 20% is only based on 90 amps, so when you jack it up to 140 amps, it will only weld for a very short time before requiring an extended cooldown.

Verdict:

Overall, the Hobart Handler 140 MIG welder is a great machine suitable for both beginners and experienced welders. While it may have some limitations, it is a durable and versatile machine with consistent arc performance and ease of use.

If you are looking for a reliable and affordable MIG welder, the Hobart Handler 140 is definitely worth considering.

2. Forney Easy Weld 140 MP Welder

The Forney Easy Weld 140 multi-process welder is a versatile Flux Core, MIG, TIG, and Stick welder designed for beginners and experienced welders. It may seem like overkill if you are only looking for a flux core welder, but if you want a wider range of welding processes, this is a good option.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120V
• Amperage Range: 10-140A
• Duty Cycle: 30% at 90A, 25% at 116A
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 70-300 inches per minute
• Weld Thickness Range: Up to 1/4 inch
• Weight: 25.8 pounds

Pros

• It can perform MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes, making it suitable for various applications.
• Its user-friendly interface, simple controls, and easy setup make it ideal for beginners and hobbyists.
• The compact and lightweight design of the welder makes it easy to move around the workshop or job site.
• The welder produces high-quality welds with minimal spatter and good penetration.

Cons

• The welder’s maximum output is 140A, which may not be sufficient for heavy-duty welding tasks.
• The welder has a relatively short duty cycle, so it may need to be rested frequently to prevent overheating.
• No gas regulator included: Users must purchase a separate gas regulator to use the welder for MIG welding.

Suitable For

• Automotive repairs and fabrication
• DIY projects
• Home repairs and maintenance
• Farm and ranch welding

Things I Like

I appreciate the versatility, user-friendly controls, and compact design of the Forney Easy Weld 140 MP welder. The welder’s ability to perform multiple welding processes allows me to switch between techniques quickly, depending on the job.

Its lightweight and portable design makes moving around the workshop or take to job sites easy.

Things I Don’t Like

However, I find the welder’s limited power and short duty cycle somewhat limiting, mainly when working on thicker materials or longer welds.

Also, the fact that a gas regulator is not included in the package means that users need to purchase one separately, which can add to the overall cost of the welder. This isn’t relevant if you will only use it for flux core.

Verdict

Overall, the Forney Easy Weld 140 MP welder is an excellent choice for beginner welders or hobbyists who require a versatile and easy-to-use welder for various projects. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to move around, and its multiple welding processes provide flexibility.

However, more experienced welders may find the welder’s limited power and short duty cycle somewhat limiting for heavier-duty projects.

Nonetheless, its affordable price point and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for most welding enthusiasts.

3. Lotos MIG 140 Welder

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with decent power, the Lotos MIG 140 is worth a closer look. Although it does have a reputation for lower build quality, it has attractive specifications.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 110V
• Amperage Range: 30 to 140 amps
• Duty Cycle: 20% at 90 amps
• Wire Feed Speed: 50 to 500 IPM
• Weld Thickness Range: 24 gauge to 3/16 inch
• Weight: 54 pounds

Pros

• It is easy to set up and use, making it ideal for beginners.
• It can be used for various welding metals, including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
• Compact and lightweight, making it easy to move around.
• This relatively affordable welder makes it an excellent choice for those on a budget.

Cons

• This welder has a low duty cycle, making it unsuitable for extended welding tasks.
• The low amperage range means that it’s not suitable for welding thick metal.
• Quality control issues: Some users have reported quality control issues. One of the reasons to limit your choice to the more reputable brands

Suitable For

• Beginners who want a versatile and affordable welder.
• Hobbyists who need a welder for occasional use.
• Those who need a portable welder for small welding tasks.

Things I Like

There are a few things that I like about the Lotos MIG 140 welder. Firstly, its versatility means it can be used for various welding tasks, which is always a plus. Secondly, its compact size and lightweight make it easy to move around and use in tight spaces. Finally, its affordability means it’s accessible to those on a budget.

Things I Don’t Like

One thing that I don’t like about the Lotos MIG 140 welder is its limited duty cycle. This means that it’s not suitable for extended welding tasks, and you may have to take frequent breaks. Additionally, its low amperage range means that it’s not suitable for welding thicker metals, which can limit its usefulness.

Verdict

Overall, the Lotos MIG 140 welder is a versatile and affordable welder suitable for beginners and hobbyists. While it has some limitations, such as its low duty cycle and amperage range, it’s still an excellent choice for small welding tasks. Its portability, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness make it a popular choice for those looking for an entry-level welder.

I value durability and reliability and would be reluctant to move too far away from the big names in the industry, like Lincoln and Miller, to avoid any quality problems.

4. Everlast PowerMIG 200 Welding Machine

The Everlast PowerMIG 200 Welding Machine is a multi-process welder that can handle Flux Core, MIG, Stick, and TIG welding. It is designed to deliver reliable and efficient performance for various welding applications. The machine has advanced features and settings that allow users to adjust and customize their welding experience.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120/240V
• Amperage Range: 10-200A
• Duty Cycle: 35% at 200A, 60% at 160A, 100% at 130A
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 50-500 IPM
• Weld Thickness Range: Up to 3/8 inch (MIG and TIG), up to 5/32 inch (Stick)
• Weight: 37 lbs

Pros

• Multi-process capabilities – can handle Flux Core, MIG, Stick, and TIG welding.
• Versatile and customizable settings allow for precise control and adjustment.
• Portable and lightweight design for ease of use and transport.
• Digital display for easy monitoring and adjustment of welding settings.
• Comes with a range of accessories, including a spool gun and TIG torch.

Cons

• I had issues with the wire feed mechanism that required regular cleaning and maintenance.
• The duty cycle may be insufficient for high-demand applications.
• The user interface may not be intuitive for beginners.

Suitable For

• Professional and hobbyist welders who require a versatile and reliable multi process welder
• Automotive, home repairs, and fabrication

Things I Like

I appreciate the Everlast PowerMIG 200’s multi-process capabilities, as it allows me to switch between welding types without having to switch machines. If you are only interested in flux core welding process, then this doesn’t apply to you.

I also appreciate the range of settings and customization options, allowing me to fine-tune my welding experience and achieve precise and consistent results.

Things I Don’t Like

One issue that concerns me as an experienced welder is the issues with the wire feed mechanism, which can affect the weld’s quality and consistency. I also note that the duty cycle may not be sufficient for high-demand applications, which could limit the machine’s usefulness in certain settings.

This machine is overkill if you only want to use flux core wire.

Verdict

Overall, the Everlast PowerMIG 200 Welding Machine is a versatile and reliable multi-process welder with various advanced features and settings. While it may have some limitations and drawbacks, it is a solid choice for professional welders and hobbyists requiring a versatile and portable welding machine.

5. Lincoln Electric EasyMIG 180 Welder

For a great welder that I personally use in my own workshop, check out the Lincoln EasyMIG 180. It has enough power with 180 amps to weld 95% of jobs that will ever come through your door. It does come with a higher price tag, but this is good value for money considering the build quality Lincoln Electric are famous for.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 230V
• Amperage Range: 30 to 180 Amps
• Duty Cycle: 30% at 130 Amps
• Wire Feed Speed: 50 to 500 IPM
• Can Weld: Mild Steel Up to 1/2 Inch Thick
• Weight: 66 Pounds

Pros

• The Lincoln Electric EasyMIG 180 Welder is user-friendly and easy to set up. It has a clear instruction manual that makes the setup process a breeze.
• Its high output power of 180A makes it suitable for a wide range of welding applications.
• The EasyMIG 180 has a spool gun ready design, which makes it ideal for welding aluminum.

Cons

• The wire feed mechanism can be a bit finicky and requires adjustments to work smoothly.
• I had some issues with the ground clamp, which are not as robust as I would like.
• The EasyMIG 180 is not a portable welder, and its weight can make it challenging to move around.

Suitable For

• DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professional welders
• Auto body repair to farm maintenance

Things I Like

The setup process is straightforward, and the welder is easy to operate, even for beginners. The high output power of 180A makes it a versatile welder that can handle a wide range of welding applications. I also like the spool gun ready design, which makes it easy to weld aluminum.

Overall, the Lincoln Electric EasyMIG 180 Welder is a reliable and versatile tool I recommend to anyone looking for a MIG welder.

Things I Don’t Like

One issue I have with the EasyMIG 180 is the weight. At 66 lbs, it’s not the most portable welder, and moving it around can be a hassle. The wire feed mechanism can also be a bit finicky, and it may take some time to get it working smoothly. However, these are minor issues that don’t detract from the overall quality of the welder.

Verdict

The Lincoln Electric EasyMIG 180 Welder is a reliable and versatile MIG welder that’s easy to set up and use. It’s suitable for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and professional welders who need a reliable tool for a wide range of welding applications. While it’s not the most portable welder, it’s a reliable and powerful tool built to last.

6. Miller Electric Millermatic 211

Miller are famous for building some of the best welding machines around. If I ended up with a Millermatic 211 in my workshop, I would be a happy welder. It is lightweight and portable, versatile with industrial voltage, and powerful with 230A max. This is a more expensive model, but is packed full of features.

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120/240V
• Amperage Range: 30 to 230 Amps
• Duty Cycle: 40% at 150 Amps
• Can Weld: Up to 3/8 inch
• Wire Feed Speed: 60 to 600 IPM
• Weight: 38 pounds

Pros

• Can be used for both MIG and flux-cored welding, making it a versatile choice for welding different types of metals and thicknesses.
• User-friendly and easy to set up, making it a good option for beginners or hobbyists.
• The lightweight design of the Miller Electric Millermatic 211 makes it easy to transport to different job sites.
• The digital display on this welder provides clear information about the settings and makes it easy to adjust the parameters.

Cons

• On the expensive side compared to other MIG welders in its category.
• The duty cycle of this welder is limited to 40% at 150A, which means that it may not be suitable for continuous use in heavy-duty applications.
• A spool gun is not included with the welder and needs to be purchased separately, which can add to the overall cost.

Things I Like

From the point of view of an experienced welder, I appreciate the versatility of the Miller Electric Millermatic 211, which can handle both MIG and flux-cored welding. The digital display is a nice feature, providing accurate information about the settings and making it easy to fine-tune the parameters.

The lightweight design and portability of this welder are also appealing, allowing me to take it to different job sites as needed.

Things I Don’t Like

From the point of view of an experienced welder, I find the limited duty cycle of the Miller Electric Millermatic 211 to be a drawback, especially for heavy-duty applications. The price is also a concern, as it is on the expensive side compared to other MIG welders in its category.

Additionally, the fact that a spool gun needs to be purchased separately is inconvenient and adds to the overall cost.

Verdict

Overall, the Miller Electric Millermatic 211 is a high-quality MIG welder that is versatile, easy to use, and portable. While it is on the expensive side, the digital display and user-friendly design make it a good option for hobbyists and professionals alike.

The limited duty cycle and the need to purchase a spool gun separately may be drawbacks for some, but overall, this welder is a reliable and efficient choice for welding projects of various sizes and types.

7. ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic Welder

The ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic Welder is a versatile and powerful machine designed for both novice and experienced welders. It is a multi-process welder, meaning it can handle Flux Core, MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes. The Rebel EMP 215ic is also lightweight, portable, and can be used for indoor and outdoor welding applications.

Specifications

• Input voltage: 120V/230V
• Amperage range: 5-240A
• Duty cycle: 40% at 240A, 100% at 110A
• Wire feed speed range: 50-500 IPM
• Weld thickness range: Up to 3/8 inch
• Weight: 40 pounds

Pros

• The Rebel EMP 215ic can handle MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes, making it a versatile machine suitable for various welding tasks.
• Weighing only 40 pounds, the Rebel EMP 215ic is lightweight and easy to transport.
• The machine comes with a clear user manual and intuitive controls, making it easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
• The Rebel EMP 215ic produces high-quality welds with excellent penetration and arc stability.
• The machine can operate on 120V and 230V power sources, making it suitable for use in different settings.

Cons

• The Rebel EMP 215ic is a high-end machine and comes with a relatively high price tag compared to other welders in its class.

Suitable For

• Novice and experienced welders
• Outdoor welding applications

Things I Like

The machine’s ability to handle multiple welding processes and intuitive controls make it easy to quickly switch between different welding tasks. Additionally, the machine’s high-quality welds and excellent arc stability ensure that the end product is of the highest quality.

Things I Don’t Like

One downside of the Rebel EMP 215ic is its relatively high price tag, which may be a barrier for some welders. Additionally, the machine’s limited welding thickness and duty cycle may not be suitable for prolonged or heavy-duty welding tasks.

Verdict

The ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic Welder is an excellent machine with versatility, portability, and ease of use. While it may not be suitable for all welding tasks, it is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced welders who require a multi-process welder that can handle different welding tasks with ease.

Despite its relatively high price tag, the machine’s high-quality welds and user-friendly design make it an excellent investment for anyone serious about welding.

8. Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder

The Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder is a compact, portable machine ideal for small welding projects. It operates on 115V household current and has a maximum output of 88 amps.

Personally, I find the K2185-1 Handy MIG to be disappointing, considering how much it costs for such limited power. It does what it says on the tin, but nothing more. The main advantage of this machine is the Lincoln Electric brand painted on the side.

Specifications

• Input voltage: 115V
• Amperage Range: 35-88 amps
• Duty cycle: 20% at 70 amps
• Wire feed speed range: 50-500 IPM
• Weld thickness range: Up to 1/8 inch
• Weight: 46 pounds

Pros

• Compact and portable
• Easy to use with simple, intuitive controls
• Suitable for light-duty welding tasks
• Made with Lincoln Electric’s high standards with excellent build quality

Cons

• Limited duty cycle
• Not suitable for heavy-duty welding projects
• Very expensive considering its small power

Suitable for

• Hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
• Small welding projects
• Automotive repairs

Things I Like

I appreciate how easy it is to use the Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder. It’s lightweight and compact, which makes it easy to move around, and it produces high-quality welds on light-duty projects. The wire feed speed is also adjustable across a wide range, allowing me to customize the weld to my needs.

Things I Don’t Like

I find the duty cycle to be a bit limited for my needs. It’s unsuitable for heavy-duty welding tasks, and I need to be careful not to exceed the duty cycle. Additionally, I have to change the wire spool frequently, which can be a bit of a hassle.

I also don’t like the amperage control knob – rather than showing you the exact amperage you are selecting, it gives you a 1 to 10 scale. For someone who wants to dial in an exact power, this is frustrating.

Verdict

The Lincoln Electric K2185-1 Handy MIG Welder is an excellent choice for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts needing a portable, easy-to-use welding machine. It’s ideal for small welding projects, such as automotive repairs, and produces high-quality welds.

However, it’s unsuitable for heavy-duty welding tasks, and the limited duty cycle may be a deal-breaker for some experienced welders. You will likely outgrow its limited power very quickly and need to upgrade unless your jobs will remain small scale.

Flux Core Welder Buying Guide

Welding machines are complex and require in-depth knowledge before making a selection. But there are a few key specifications you can narrow your search down to make your shortlist easier to review.

When buying a new welder, I have a concrete view of the max amps, input voltage, duty cycle, and wire size based on the work I intend to do with it.

Amperage Range

When choosing a flux core welder, you will notice that the more powerful the welding machine is, the more it costs. Therefore, you should pick a model that has sufficient power and no more.

The max amps are one of the most important considerations and will dictate the thickness of steel you can weld. This table will give you a rough idea of how much amperage you need based on your thickest jobs:

Amperage Range	Thickness of Mild Steel
30 – 90 Amps	Up to 1/8 inch
70 – 140 Amps	Up to 1/4 inch
125 – 200 Amps	Up to 1/2 inch
300+ Amps	Over 3/4 inch

The amperage range also affects the quality of the weld. If the amperage is too low, the weld may be weak and ineffective, while if the amperage is too high, the weld may be overheated and prone to defects.

You may also want to review the minimum amperage – if you intend on welding very thin material, reducing your amperage is also important.

Input Voltage

Flux core welding machines can have different input voltages, affecting their suitability for various applications. The most common input voltages for flux core welders are:

• 120V – Flux core welders with a 120V input voltage are suitable for light-duty welding applications, such as household repairs, DIY projects, and small-scale welding projects. They are also ideal for use in areas with limited power supply.
• 240V – Flux core welders with a 240V input voltage are suitable for heavy-duty welding applications, such as industrial welding, construction, and fabrication. They are more powerful than 120V welders and can handle thicker materials and longer welding runs.
• Dual voltage – Some flux core welding machines have dual voltage capability, which means they can operate on both 120V and 240V power sources. Dual voltage welders are versatile and can be used in various applications, from light to heavy-duty welding.

It’s essential to choose a flux core welding machine with the appropriate input voltage for the type of welding you will be doing. If you are working on small-scale projects or DIY repairs, a 120V welder may be sufficient. However, if you will be welding thicker materials or working on industrial projects, a 240V or dual-voltage machine may be more appropriate.

PRO TIP: Don't buy a flux core welding machine that requires 240V if you don't have access to it in your workshop.

Wire Size

The most common flux core wire sizes for welding are 0.030 inch and 0.035 inch. However, other sizes are also available, including 0.025 inch and 0.045 inch.

The wire size of your flux core welder is an important consideration because it can affect the quality of the weld, the appearance of the finished product, and the overall welding experience.

When selecting a wire size for your flux core welder, consider the material being welded, the amperage range of your welder, and the specific requirements of your welding project.

Duty Cycle

Duty cycle indicates the amount of time a welder can operate without overheating. It is expressed as a percentage and refers to how long a welder can operate at a particular amperage before requiring a rest period.

For example, if a welder has a duty cycle of 60% at 200 amps, the welder can operate for 6 minutes out of a 10-minute cycle at 200 amps before requiring a rest period of 4 minutes to cool down.

A suitable duty cycle for a flux core welder depends on the specific welding application. Higher duty cycles are generally better for heavier-duty welding applications that require longer welding runs, while lower duty cycles may be sufficient for lighter-duty welding projects.

A typical duty cycle for a flux core welder is around 20% at maximum output. An important mistake to avoid is a low duty cycle at less than maximum amperage. For example, a 20% duty cycle at 90A on a 140A welding machine is a genuine concern, because the duty cycle at maximum amperage will be incredibly short.

Portability

Flux core welders are much more portable than MIG welding machines because you don’t need to transport a gas bottle. But, you shouldn’t ignore the weight and dimensions of your potential machine.

You may need to move your welder around your workshop or load it into your truck for dozens of reasons. Having a machine you can lift easily and transport with one person makes it significantly more useful.

It becomes a real pain when you need to upgrade to having a powerful welding machine in your workshop and a secondary smaller welder in your truck. The ability to do both with one machine is a real money saver.

Having said that, I also wouldn’t sacrifice power to save weight. Some of the smallest flux core welding machines have under 100 amps of power, which isn’t enough amperage for tasks I will likely encounter.

Conclusion

So many models are available on the market that it can be difficult to select the best flux core welder. Step one is to understand what you will be welding and how much amperage that requires. After this you can choose the best duty cycle, wire feed rate, and input voltage.

My recommendation is the Hobart Handler 140 MIG Welder. This is suitable for both beginners and experienced welders and is versatile enough and powerful enough to handle 90% of DIY welding jobs.