Best Multi-Process Welder Review: MIG, TIG, Stick, & Flux-Cored Options

If you can’t plan in advance the type of welds you’ll need to do for your next project, this article, “best multi-process welder review”, is for you.

Multi-function welders offer MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored options (some also do plasma cutting). However, when it comes to purchasing a welder, narrowing it down to one ideal for you can be quite tricky.

Quick Comparison List

Brand/Model	Image	Action
1. Lincoln Electric Power MIG 210 MP Welder
2. ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic Multi-Process Welder
3. Miller Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder with TIG Kit
4. Everlast Power 211Si Multi Process Welder
5. Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder
6. Forney 324 3-in-One Welder

Key Considerations

Just looking at the vast array of options available in the market can leave you scratching your head. Also, the type of welder you pick is determined by the type of metalwork you intend on doing.

Different types of metals require separate welding processes to get the job done. While a Stick process would work better for thick, rusty metals, thinner metals would work better with TIG.

Hence, depending on what type of metal you are working with, you can choose between MIG/TIG/stick processes.

All-in-One Welding Units

There is another option, though. This option helps to decide which process to choose easier and the freedom to take on various metalworking projects.

A device that can carry out all the different types of welding processes: the multi-process welder.

This article will help you understand what exactly a multi-process welder is, what its uses are, and even list out the top 6 multi-process welders to help you make your decision!

What is a Multi-Process Welder?

A multi-process welder is a notch above the traditional welding machine. It can carry out more than one welding process at a time, resulting in an output of a high standard.

Multi-process welders provide all-in-one welding features for stick, MIG, and TIG welding, making them a dynamic option if you are looking for a complete welding process.

The real differentiator that sets them a cut above the rest is the ability to perform all four welding processes to virtually the same standard.

Best Multi Process Welder Review – Top 6 Picks & Buying Guide

Here is a look at some of the best multi-process welders on the market today:

1. Lincoln Electric Power MIG 210 MP Welder

The Lincoln Electric Power MIG 210 MP Welder is a portable, 4-in-1 unit with immense performance.

It is definitely a reliable all-in-one solution with the ability to perform MIG, TIG, stick, or even a flux-cored welder.

This compact and sleek multi-process welder (find out the detailed review here) weighs just under 40 lb, making it extremely lightweight and portable.

It is easy to use the digital interface that makes this product extremely powerful while also user-friendly.

Connect the appropriate torch and ground clamp depending on the project you are working on, check your gas connection, and voila! You are ready to start welding!

Features

• Large color display with push-and-turn digital controls
• MIG: weld up to 5/16 inch mild or stainless steel. Aluminum up to 3/16″ (with Spool MIG gun)
• Flux-Core works with gas-shielded and self-shielded wire
• DC Stick: (no AC function): up to 5/32″ stick electrodes
• DC TIG: (no AC function) works on Touch Start TIG technology – The tungsten electrode starts the arc only when it comes into contact with the workpiece (torch and pedal control sold separately)

Specifications

• Input Power: 120/230V
• Rated Output: 100A Duty Cycle 40% (120V) – 200A Duty Cycle 25% (230V)
• Input Current: 15A (120V) – 14.7A (230V)
• Output Range: 20-140 Amps (120V) – 20-220 Amps (230V)
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 50-500 IPM
• Solid Wire Size Range: .025 – .035 inches
• Cored Wire Size Range: .035 – .045 inches
• Weight: 40 lb 
• Dimensions: (H x W x D) 14.5 x 10.75 x 19 inches

Pros

• Dual voltage
• Easy to carry (only 40 lb)
• The display provides easy set up guidance
• Strong and sturdy metal construction
• Easy to use

Cons

• No AC current mode for aluminum
• Not meant for heavy-duty use

2. ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic Multi-Process Welder

While the ESAB Rebel series overall has quite an excellent range of products, this particular model stands apart from the rest.

Soldering functions include MIG, DC pulse TIG, DC TIG, Stick, Flux-Cored, and AC TIG. It can be powered both at 120V and 240V.

One of the key differentiators of this model is the AC TIG functionality, and therefore it can TIG weld aluminum. This unit can operate in both direct and alternate currents. Consequently, it can weld aluminum and even titanium.

The Esab Rebel EMP 205ic can weld using pulse TIG mode with a frequency from 1 to 500 PPS (pulse per second) to weld thinner metals.

Features

• Actual multi-process performance for best-in-class MIG, Flux-Cored, Stick, including 6010 Stick electrodes, and Lift TIG welding mode
• The unique “smart MIG” feature adapts to the operator’s welding technique to improve performance. This increases productivity for professional welders and reduces the learning curve for beginners
• Innovative TFT (Thin Film Transistor), larger display, and high pixel density provide a more accurate view than other light industrial welding machines. (among other features, it displays the voltage, welding amperage, and wire feed speed in multiple languages)
• Special five-handle roll cage industrial design and unibody steel construction in a lightweight, highly portable unit
• Includes: MIG gun, electrode holder, earth clamp, TIG torch, and Victor gas regulator
• 3-year warranty

Specifications

• Input Voltage: 120V/230V
• 4.3” LCD Screen
• MIG Duty Cycle: 25% (120V) and 40% (230V)
• Welding Output: 240A Max
• Protection Class: IP23S
• Open Circuit Voltage: 68V
• Dimensions: (H x L x W) 16 x 23 x 9 inches
• Weight: 49 lb

Pros

• Smart MIG feature
• Dual voltage
• 4.3″ TFT screen
• Lift arc (TIG mode)
• 4 adjustments (MIG mode)
• Provides a superior and stable arc for multiple welds
• Easily switch between welding processes
• Long run time
• Lightweight and portable
• Unibody steel case for better durability
• Excellent customer support

Cons

• Given its many functions, it takes some time to fully use this machine
• It’s expensive

3. Miller Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder with TIG Kit

Miller is a trusted brand in the metalwork world. And they sure do take things to the next level with this particular model. Indeed, its multiprocessing capabilities are truly amazing.

The Miller Multimatic 215 multiprocess welder is designed to operate in MIG, MIG flux-core, stick, and DC TIG modes.

Unlike the ESAB 205i, it can also be used by operators with little experience, given its simplicity of configuration.

Thanks to its dual solenoid feature, you can perform multiple functions simultaneously. You can leave your MIG and TIG gases hooked in simultaneously, making switching between the two tasks an absolute breeze.

Furthermore, although it is a quality tool produced by a well-known and affirmed brand, this unit has a much more affordable price. It is, therefore, an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals.

However, the Miller Multimatic 215 can only be used for small-scale jobs, metal art projects, and home maintenance.

What’s more? This is a small yet sturdy, robust, lightweight product. If ease of use and versatility is what you are looking for, this is definitely your machine.

Features

• Extremely stable arc with minimal spatter for less cleanup
• Smooth-Start™ for consistently smooth MIG arc starts
• Quick-Select™ drive roll for continuous, reliable feeding and fast wire changes
• Multi-Voltage plug easily connects to standard 120V or 240V power outlets — no tools required. Just choose the plug that fits the receptacle and connect it to the power cord
• Color LCD screen
• Auto-Set™ Elite: fast and easy settings for multiple materials and processes to help you get welding quickly. Auto-Set Elite allows you to finetune weld settings while in Auto-Set mode
• Fan-On-Demand™ technology: The cooling system operates if needed, reducing noise, electricity usage, and the volume of contaminants pulled into the machine
• Thermal overload protection is a failsafe that automatically shuts down the unit if the airflow is blocked or the duty cycle is exceeded
• Auto Spool Gun Detect™ feature automatically detects when a MIG gun or spool gun is connected – no need for a switch

Specifications

• Dual Input Power: 120V/240V
• Rated Output: MIG/flux-cored: 200 A: 20% duty cycle (240 V); 150 A: 40% duty cycle (240 V); 110 A: 60% duty cycle (120 V) – TIG: 190 A: 20% duty cycle (240 V); 140 A: 40% duty cycle (120 V) – Stick: 190 A: 20% duty cycle (240 V); 90 A: 40% duty cycle (120 V)
• Amperage: 20A – 230A
• Wire Speed: 60 – 600 IPM (inch per minute)
• Metal Thickness: MIG: 24 ga. – 3/8 inches steel.
• TIG: 24 ga. – 1/4 inches steel
• Stick 16 ga. – 3/8 inches steel
• Wire Diameter: 0.023 – 0.035 inches solid steel; 0.023 – 0.035 in. (0.6 – 0.9 mm) stainless steel; 0.030 – 0.045 in. (0.8 – 1.1 mm) flux-cored
• Spool Gun Compatibility Spoolmate™ 100, Spoolmate 150
• Weight: 38 lb
• Dimensions (H x W x L): 12.5 x 11.25 x 20.5 inches

Pros

• Multi-voltage functionality
• Smooth and steady
• It is not suitable for heavy work, but it has enough power to weld even thick metals
• Portable
• Versatile
• Affordable

Cons

• The spool gun for welding aluminum is sold separately
• Not even the TIG kit is not included

4. Everlast Power 211Si Multi-Process Welder

Although it does not offer the same standards as previous welders, Everlast PowerMTS 211Si is worthy of consideration due to its price and the five-year warranty.

It is a welder with enough power and capacity to handle most DIY projects, home maintenance jobs, or small-scale works.

This 211Si is a 3-in-1 device that can perform MIG, TIG, and Stick welding. It does not have the AC TIG option for aluminum welding.

Weighing around 80 lb, it is not as portable as many other units available, but offers a relatively high amperage, good wire speed, and has both HF TIG start and lift start features.

It can work with 110V and 220V power supplies.

The easy-to-control panel is a useful tool for learning how to use all the functions for beginners.

The Everlast multi-process welder is a good choice for those who want to buy a cheaper device and need to perform more than one type of welding with good results.

Features

• MIG/TIG/Stick welder
• Quick set up/Manual override mode
• Synergic spool gun
• Synergic MIG operation or Standard MIG operation: the Synergic MIG function offers an adjustable arc, with the possibility of saving up to 9 different settings
• TIG HF and lift start
• TIG Foot pedal and torch included
• Accept the Spool gun for MIG (not included)
• 5-year warranty

Specifications

• Dual voltage 120V/240V Single phase
• Amperage Capacity: 220 A
• Max MIG Amperage: 125A (210A)
• Max TIG Amperage: 125A (210A)
• Max Stick Amperage: 100A (175A)
• Duty Cycle: MIG 35% – TIG 40% – Stick 35%
• Dimensions: 24 × 9 × 17 inches
• Weight: 80 lb

Pros

• Powerful MIG, TIG and Stick welder
• Easy to set up and use
• Quick setup and use based on wire diameter and metal type
• 2T/4T technology
• High-Frequency TIG start
• TIG kit included
• Lasting five-year warranty

Cons

• Not the same build quality as Esab or Lincoln
• Not easy to carry
• The power switch is on the back of the unit – inconvenient in some circumstances

5. Hobart Handler 210 MVP MIG Welder

The Hobart Handler 210MVP has compact dimensions with about 79 lb. Although this model weighs a little more than other more expensive and sophisticated welding machines, it is still quite easy to transport thanks to its small size.

And despite appearances, it is capable of delivering 210A of power.

Overall, the Hobart 210 mixes affordability, build quality, and reliability.

Designed for both experienced and non-expert users, this unit can weld materials including steel, stainless steel, and iron.

However, this unit has only two functions, MIG and flux-core. It does not have the TIG function, and although it can be connected to a spool gun, it is not ideal for welding aluminum.

You can read the review of the Hobart Handler 210MVP here.

Features

• Dual-voltage input: the multi-voltage plug lets you plug in your welder anywhere
• 7 voltage selections (230V) and 4 voltage selections (115V), infinite wire feed speed control, and enhanced magnetics give easier and better control for improved arc performance with reduced spatter
• Optional spool runner can be directly plugged in. Using a spool runner helps to feed with soft aluminum wires
• Built-in cut off power circuitry: safety feature that makes the machine electrically cold when not operating
• Easy access to polarity changeover includes storage holes for spare tips
• Dual-groove drive rolls allow you to easily switch from one size to another
• Self-resetting thermal overload and motor protection ensure that the system doesn’t exceed its duty cycle limit.

Specifications

• Process Type: Flux Core, MIG
• Dual Input Voltage: 115/230 V
• Duty Cycle: 20% (115V); 30% (230V)
• Weld Thickness: 24 ga. – 3/8 in.
• Wire Feed Speed Range: 40-680 IPM
• Welding Amperage Range: 25-140 A (115V)
• Welding Amperage Range: 25-210 A (230V)
• Dimensions (H x W x L): 12 x 10 x 19.5 inches
• Weight: 79 lb

Pros

• Great for home use and small projects
• Appreciated by professionals and experienced users
• Durable cast aluminum drive system
• Tool-less drive roll system
• Quick and easy settings
• Multi-function plug feature
• It is the least expensive

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy-duty projects
• It does not have the TIG function
• Some users report that the cables are short
• Spool gun cost is additional

6. Forney 324 3-in-One Welder

The Forney 324 is a 3-in-1 MIG, TIG, and Stick multi-process device. As with all the devices in this list, the power supply is 120V and 230V.

The maximum amperage is 190A, with a duty cycle of 20%.

The Forney can be used for a range of projects, including general fabrication, boats, automotive, farms, light industrial repairs, and maintenance.

The welder is MIG ready and has a gas hose, as well as a regulator. Moreover, it is easy to operate, as you can easily switch from one process to another.

It is light enough to be carried easily (about 50 lb)

Features

• Regular functionality of a multi-process welder with additional interesting features such as:
• Quick style disconnects torch
• Synergic MIG and standard MIG modes
• Longer torch and gun as well as standard consumables
• Extra longer cord
• HD cast aluminum
• TIG torch: not included
• MIG gun: not included
• Foot Pedal: not included

Specifications

• Multi-Process MIG, DC TIG and Stick welder
• Dual Input Power: 120V/230V
• Max Amperage: 190A
• Cord Length: 15 ft.
• Dimensions: 19 x 9.5 x 16.5 inches
• Weight: 51.4 pounds
• Warranty: 5/3/1 years warranty

Pros

• Ideal for DIY projects
• Durable
• Interesting features
• Easy setup
• Good portability
• Interesting price
• Long-lasting warranty

Cons

• Not suitable for welding metals thicker than 1/4 inch

Video: Forney 190 MP MIG/Stick/TIG Multi-Process Welder Vendor Demo

Things to Keep in Mind While Buying a Multi-Process Welder

Defining your use cases is the first step to narrowing down the options and making an informed decision in a sea of multi-process welders.

1. Do you need more power or amperage for the projects you are working on now or in the future? It is essential to consider such scenarios.
2. You probably have a budget in mind. But do not forget to factor in the cost of additional accessories and operation.
3. Always be sure to check the quality of your product. Read customer reviews.
4. Do not compromise quality for aesthetics, a lighter welder, or a lower price. This will only cost you in the long run.
5. All things considered, make an informed financial decision. Welders are expensive, but when you pick the right one, it can be a lifetime investment with returns that keep on coming!
6. Don’t rush the decision. This is a choice that will help change the course of your work. So take your time, do your research, and talk to people before taking the plunge.

FAQs

What is the strongest welding process?

The strongest weld is the one done well. Different techniques exist depending on the type of material and other factors.

What is the hardest metal to weld?

Aluminum is considered the most difficult metal to weld because, due to its physical and chemical properties, it requires more knowledge and experience.

Can I weld aluminum without gas?

Without shielding gas, the molten aluminum would react with the oxygen present in the air. The result would be a porous weld full of oxides and, therefore, very fragile.

What is the easiest metal to weld?

Steel is basically the easiest metal to weld, using any technique.

Can you MIG weld stainless steel without gas?

The question is incorrect. The MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding technique involves gas. However, it is possible to weld the stainless steel to obtain excellent results.

Is it safe to weld bolts?

No. The metal of the bolts is heat-treated to make them stronger and more resistant. The weld’s heat can adversely alter these properties, and therefore it is always better not to weld nuts or bolts.

Conclusion and Best Offer

Multi-process welders are an incredible addition to any metalworker’s arsenal.

Hopefully, this comprehensive look has set you on the right track to make an informed decision about buying a new device.

The highlight product on this list is definitely the Esab Rebel EMP 205ic Multi-Process Welder, based on functionality, quality, versatility, portability, and power.

Best Offer

ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic Multi-Process Welder

It all just comes together with this one! If your job involves performing all types of welds, including AC TIG, Esab will pay you back for the investment over time. Grab this golden opportunity and start welding!

The Alternative

It is worth considering the Miller Multimatic 215 with TIG kit as a secondary option. This is a great unit for those who need to weld different materials of different thicknesses and use the TIG function from time to time.

Miller Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder with TIG Kit

Ideal for professionals, hobbyists, and DIYers, the price, much more accessibility, and the guarantee make the Miller 215 an excellent option.