A MIG175 welding machine with a brown casing and attached spool gun resting on a metal workbench in a dimly lit workshop.

Lotos MIG 175 Welder Review: Weld Steel and Aluminum Without Breaking the Bank

A dependable MIG welder that handles both steel and aluminum isn’t easy to find—especially if you’re working on a tight budget. That’s why the Lotos MIG175 has built a reputation among DIYers, home garage welders, and small shop owners. It brings solid performance, comes with a spool gun, and runs on 240V power, making it…

Two Lotos plasma cutters, LTP5500D and LTP5000D, side by side on a workshop floor with coiled cables and cutting torches in front.

Lotos LTP5000D vs LTP5500D: Two Plasma Cutters Built for Real Shop Work

When you’re working in a small garage or DIY welding setup, you need tools that punch above their price tag. That’s where Lotos comes in. The brand’s well known for affordable plasma cutters that deliver more than you’d expect—and the LTP5000D and LTP5500D are two of its top contenders. While they share a lot of…

A welder wearing a leather helmet and gloves uses a MIG torch on a steel workpiece, with a red Lotos MIG175 machine beside him and sparks flying in a workshop.

Are Lotos Welders Any Good? Budget-Friendly Machines That Actually Deliver

If you’re looking for a welder that won’t empty your wallet but still holds its own in a home shop, Lotos is a brand worth checking out. These machines have gained popularity among hobbyists and weekend welders for one big reason—they offer solid features at surprisingly low prices. But what are they really like to…

A photograph taken in a workshop displays three MIG welders—Hobart, Miller, and Lincoln—lined up on a workbench, surrounded by welding tools and cables.

Hobart vs Miller vs Lincoln MIG Welders: Which One’s Right for Your Garage?

A solid MIG welder makes a big difference when you’re trying to get clean welds without a headache. Whether you’re patching a trailer, fabricating brackets, or working on weekend repairs, choosing the right machine can save you time and frustration. Hobart, Miller, and Lincoln are three of the most trusted names welders turn to for…

A photograph presents two MIG welders, one Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i in green and the other a red Lincoln Electric Wire-Feed Welder, side by side on a metal workbench in a garage shop setting.

Forney Welders vs Lincoln: Best Choice for Garage Welding

When it comes to dependable entry-level welders, both Forney and Lincoln have strong reputations. Whether you’re fixing a trailer, building a gate, or just learning the basics, these two brands offer popular 140-amp machines that are ideal for small shops, hobby use, and general home projects. This side-by-side breakdown focuses on real-world factors like portability,…

A high-resolution photo of two Lincoln Electric engine-driven welders—the Eagle 10,000 Plus and the Ranger—side by side on a concrete floor in a shop setting.

Lincoln Eagle Welder vs Ranger: Side-by-Side Comparison for Welders

The Lincoln Eagle and Lincoln Ranger are two of the most trusted engine-driven welders on the market, known for their durability and solid performance. Both are built to handle real job site conditions, from mobile repair work to fabrication in remote locations. While they share some similarities, their differences in power, features, and use case…

How Long Are Most Welding Schools? Course Length Explained

How Long Are Most Welding Schools? Course Length Explained

Welding school can get you job-ready in a surprisingly short amount of time. Most programs run between 6 and 12 months, giving students the hands-on experience and certifications needed to land entry-level welding jobs. Some programs are quicker and more focused, while others take a bit longer and dive deeper into advanced skills. What you…

A close-up of a silver and black handheld inverter welder actively welding a rusted pipe, with bright sparks flying against a soft neutral background.

Saker Handheld Welder Review: Small Size, Solid Results

Portable stick welders are becoming a go-to choice for weekend welders, DIYers, and folks working in tight garage spaces. The Saker Portable Welding Machine is a compact 110V welder designed for light-duty jobs and beginners looking for something simple and affordable. Let’s take a closer look at what this little machine can do and why…

A photograph captures a close-up of a laser welding machine fusing metal, with sparks flying and a handheld laser gun in use beside a wire feeder.

How Does Laser Beam Welding Work: A Practical Guide

Laser welding might sound high-tech—and it is—but it’s also becoming a super practical tool for welders who want fast, clean results. Whether you’re working in a fabrication shop or tinkering in your garage, these machines can seriously upgrade your workflow. What’s Actually Happening When You Laser Weld? A laser welding machine uses a concentrated beam—usually…

A photograph features a portable handheld welding machine stored in a hard black case, with orange safety gloves, electrode cables, and accessories neatly arranged on a workshop surface.

BTOBI Handheld Welder Review: Compact Power for Quick Repairs

Not every welding project calls for a big, heavy-duty machine. When space is tight or you’re tackling smaller tasks, a portable welder like the BTOBI handheld welder makes a lot of sense. It’s lightweight, fits neatly in one hand, and even comes with its own toolbox—ideal for light home repairs or a quick job in…