Choosing the right 120V welder for your needs can be challenging with so many models on the market. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider and provide recommendations on some of the top 120V welders available.
Top 120V Welders
Here are some of the best 120V welders to consider:
| Welder | Output | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart Handler 140 | 140A | 57 lbs | $500 |
| Forney Easy Weld 261 | 140A | 19 lbs | $230 |
| Lotos MIG140 | 140A | 54 lbs | $430 |
Key Factors to Consider
Output Power
120V welders typically have lower output, ranging from around 80 to 140 amps. Consider what thickness of metal you need to weld. Thicker metals require more amperage.
Portability
If you need to move your welder around your shop or take it to job sites, look for a lighter, more compact model. Welders range from around 20 to 60 pounds.
Duty Cycle
Duty cycle indicates the percentage of time in a 10 minute period the welder can operate at maximum power. A higher duty cycle allows longer periods of continuous welding.
Added Features
Some welders include handy extras like a built-in grinder, spool gun adapter, or dual voltage capacity. Consider what features may suit your needs.
Overview of Recommended Welders
Hobart Handler 140
The Hobart Handler 140 is a popular welder that delivers 140A of output power. It has a 20% duty cycle at max power. The flux cored wire welder includes an adjustable drive roll tensioner and thermal overload protection. At 57 pounds, it offers decent portability.
Forney Easy Weld 261
Extremely lightweight and portable at just 19 pounds, the Forney Easy Weld 261 provides 140A output. It has a 20% duty cycle and uses flux core wire. The welder has infinite voltage and wire feed speed control.
Lotos MIG140
The Lotos MIG140 offers 140A output and a 140A duty cycle. It can weld mild steel up to 1/4″ thick. The welder has four heat settings and includes a MIG gun, mask, clamp, and cord. It weighs 54 pounds.
Technical Specifications
| Welder | Amperage Range | Max Open Circuit Voltage | Wire Feed Speed | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hobart Handler 140 | 25-140 A | 70 VDC | 40-700 IPM | 19 x 12 x 24 in |
| Forney Easy Weld 261 | 30-140 A | 83 VDC | 50-700 IPM | 17 x 8.5 x 13 in |
| Lotos MIG140 | 50-140 A | 58 VDC | 50-500 IPM | 18 x 10 x 14 in |
Features
| Welder | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Hobart Handler 140 |
|
| Forney Easy Weld 261 |
|
| Lotos MIG140 |
|
Advantages and Disadvantages
When selecting a 120V welder, consider the key pros and cons of each model:
Hobart Handler 140
Pros:
- Delivers maximum 140A output
- Decent 20% duty cycle
- Quality construction for longevity
- 5 position voltage control offers flexibility
Cons:
- On the heavier side at 57 lbs
- More expensive than some models
- No dual voltage capacity
Forney Easy Weld 261
Pros:
- Very lightweight and portable at 19 lbs
- Affordable price point
- Infinite controls allow precision
- Simple design great for beginners
Cons:
- Short 6 ft torch limits reach
- No thermal overload protection
- Not as durable as pricier models
Lotos MIG140
Pros:
- 140A max output and duty cycle
- 4 heat settings for versatility
- Includes spool gun adapter
- Affordably priced
Cons:
- On the heavy side at 54 lbs
- Setup can be tricky for beginners
- Prone to wire feeding issues
Comparison of Recommended Models
When deciding between the Hobart Handler 140, Forney Easy Weld 261, and Lotos MIG140, consider the following comparisons:
Power and Performance
The Hobart Handler 140 and Lotos MIG140 both provide maximum 140A output, allowing you to weld thicker mild steel. The Forney Easy Weld 261 lags slightly behind at 120A max output. For duty cycle, the Lotos MIG140 is highest at 140A, followed by the Hobart at 20% duty cycle.
Portability
The Forney 261 is by far the most portable at just 19 lbs. The Lotos MIG140 is moderately portable at 54 lbs. The Hobart is the heaviest at 57 lbs.
Ease of Use
The Forney Easy Weld 261 wins for simplicity with basic infinite controls. The Hobart Handler 140 is moderately easy to use. The Lotos MIG140 has a steeper learning curve, especially for welding beginners.
Durability
The Hobart Handler 140 is regarded as the most durable and reliable. The Lotos MIG140 is prone to wire feeding problems. The Forney Easy Weld 261 has cheaper construction that may not hold up over time.
Value
The Forney Easy Weld 261 is the most budget-friendly at around $230. The Lotos MIG140 gives you the most for your money at $430 considering the included accessories. The Hobart Handler 140 is the priciest but offers high performance.
Select the welder that best aligns with your needs and priorities – power, portability, ease of use, durability, or affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What thickness of metal can you weld with a 120V welder?
Most 120V welders can handle mild steel from 18 gauge up to around 1/4 inch thickness. More powerful models with maximum amperage may be able to weld up to 3/8 inch thick mild steel. For thicker metals, you would need a 220V welder.
How long can a 120V welder run continuously?
That depends on the welder’s duty cycle rating. Duty cycle indicates the percentage of time in a 10-minute window the welder can operate at its max settings. For example, a 20% duty cycle means the welder can weld at full power for 2 out of every 10 minutes. After that, you need to rest the welder to prevent overheating.
What accessories do I need for a 120V welder?
Most 120V welders include some accessories, but you may need to purchase others separately:
Welding helmet to protect your eyes and face
Work gloves to protect your hands from sparks
Ground clamp to complete the electrical circuit
Chipping hammer to remove slag after welding
Wire brush to clean metal before welding
How difficult is it to learn to weld with a 120V welder?
For beginners, a 120V flux core welder is one of the easiest welders to learn on. They don’t require gas tanks and regulators. With some practice on scrap metal, most DIYers can master basic welding techniques. Taking a class can also help you learn proper techniques faster.
What safety gear should I use with a 120V welder?
At minimum, you need a welding helmet, work gloves, and long sleeve shirt. Consider leather sleeves/jacket, apron, and boots to protect against sparks and heat. Wear earplugs to protect your hearing from loud welding noise. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid fumes.
Conclusion
Purchasing a 120V welder enables DIYers, hobbyists, and small shops to take on light welding projects using standard household power. While less powerful than 220V models, the best 120V welders can handle materials up to 1/4″ thick.
Key factors to consider are amperage output, duty cycle rating, portability, and ease of use. Leading 120V welder options include the Hobart Handler 140, Forney Easy Weld 261, and Lotos MIG140.
The Hobart provides top-end performance and durability. The compact Forney model offers affordability and simplicity. And the Lotos MIG140 provides versatility for the price.
Taking the time to evaluate your needs and budget will ensure you select the right 120V welder. With practice and safety precautions, a quality 120V welder enables welding on DIY and hobbyist projects using standard household current.
Leave a Reply