Hobart Stickmate 160i Reviews: Reliable Stick Welding Power in a Compact Frame
Stick welding often calls for durability, simplicity, and enough power to handle a range of jobs—whether in the shop or out in the field. The Hobart Stickmate 160i delivers on all fronts. This compact, portable welder has become a favorite among welders who value reliable performance without the bulk. In this review, we’ll explore its key features, performance, and where it stands among other stick welding machines.
Hobart 500570 Stickmate 160i Review
Weighing just 15 pounds, the Hobart Stickmate 160i is built for portability. Despite its lightweight design, this inverter-based welder offers up to 160 amps of power, making it suitable for both light fabrication work and maintenance tasks. It’s designed for stick (SMAW) welding and supports both 120V and 240V input power, making it versatile in various environments.
Users appreciate its simple interface: a large, easy-to-grip amperage knob, straightforward connections, and quick start-up. The hot start feature helps reduce electrode sticking, particularly useful for beginners or those working with difficult-to-strike rods like 7018.
Performance and Power Delivery
Thanks to its inverter technology, the Stickmate 160i offers smooth arc performance. On 240V, it delivers the full 160 amps, enough to comfortably run 1/8-inch and even some 5/32-inch electrodes. On 120V, it’s limited to around 80 amps, ideal for lighter welding tasks and maintenance work.
Its arc quality is consistent and clean, especially with 7014 and 6011 rods. The lift-arc start makes striking an arc easier and reduces splatter. It runs impressively cool, with an integrated fan to maintain safe operating temperatures.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and portable
- Strong arc performance with inverter tech
- Hot start for easier arc striking
- Dual voltage input (120V/240V)
- Simple and rugged build
Cons:
- No TIG capability
- Limited power on 120V
- Leads may feel short for larger work areas
Ideal Users and Applications
This welder is ideal for hobbyists, DIYers, and mobile repair professionals. It’s perfect for home garages, farms, and light industrial repair work. If you need something that travels well but still delivers dependable stick welding output, the Hobart 160i is a solid option.
Although its lack of TIG capability may be a downside for those needing multiprocess functions, as a dedicated stick machine, it’s one of the most convenient and reliable models in its class.
Conclusion
The Hobart Stickmate 160i stands out for its portability and performance. Whether you’re patching equipment in the field or working on weekend projects in the garage, it’s a welder you can trust to deliver consistent results. Compact yet capable, it fills an important space in the stick welding world for both beginners and pros.
