which welder to buy

[beto101]

I'm in need of a welder and have come upon 3 welders to choose from in my price range. They all are mig welders. 1 is a Lincoln 175 HD 2nd is a Lincoln SP180T 3rd is a Miller 175. All are 230 volt and seem to be like new condition. My question is which is best? Any help in making my decision is appreciated.

 

[crawdaddy]

They are all nice machines. Probably just which one you prefer.

I like miller all the way.

 

[jt512]

I'm a miller fan I use a 251 and it is an awesome unit, I've used my friends 180 and really liked it as well. I have never used a 175 but I have had nothing but good results with all the millers I have used.

 

[cuervo]

I've got a Miller 210 and Miller Econo TIG so guess which why I'd go?

 

[folkenheath]

Do they have infinite or TAP voltage control? Do all have aluminum drive parts where the roller mounts? You might want to look at that.

 

[Adventurous 4x4]

I used both Miller and Lincoln welders over the last 20 years. I bought my Miller 175 in 2002 and it has done everything I asked it to do. Me personally, I would go with the Miller but they both make quality machines.

 

[Pookster]

I use a lincoln mig and a miller syncrhowave tig. My mig is an old 140t (or is it 130?I forget)(with tap only) in 230.

I got the mig used off craigslist- bottle, cart, in like new condition. The guy didn't even finish the first roll or first bottle of gas. Only paid a couple hundred bucks for it.

Having infinitely adjustable is a plus; but with migging, I find that some combo of technique/ wire speed is enough to get by. Most of my migging is when I try to get something done quick, or sheet metal work in some odd position.

Any of those machines should get you moving, so just see what stuff is included.. helmet, etc.