10 Best Affordable Stick Welder 2025 in the United States

The YESWELDER 135Amp MIG Welder is an affordable and versatile 3-in-1 welding machine that is well-suited for those seeking flexibility and convenience in their welding projects. It offers an amperage range of up to 135 amps, which is sufficient for tackling mild steel workpieces up to 2/5” thick, making it a good choice for both light and medium-duty tasks. The input voltage is 110V, making it compatible with standard household outlets, which adds to its accessibility for home use and small workshops.

The digital display interface is a notable strength, providing clear real-time current monitoring, which enhances precision and control during welding. Additionally, the adjustable wire feeding speed and automatic voltage matching feature can be particularly beneficial for beginners, as it simplifies the setup process and allows for fine-tuning. The welder is also highly portable, weighing just 11.4 lbs and equipped with a carrying handle, making it easy to transport and ideal for on-the-go projects.

In terms of safety, it comes with protections against over-current, over-load, and over-heating, which is reassuring for users concerned about device longevity and personal safety. However, potential drawbacks include the need for purchasing additional equipment such as a lift TIG torch for TIG welding. Also, while it is designed to handle a range of electrodes, its performance might not match higher-end welders intended for heavy-duty industrial use. The build quality, although decent, may not be as robust as some more expensive models. The YESWELDER 135Amp MIG Welder offers great value for its price, especially for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and small-scale welders who need a versatile and portable tool.

The ARCCAPTAIN 200A Stick/Lift TIG Welder presents itself as a versatile and user-friendly option in the affordable stick welder category. With a wide amperage range of 200A, it offers flexibility for various welding tasks, including MMA and Lift TIG welding. The machine is compatible with popular electrodes like 6010, 6011, 6013, and 7018, making it suitable for outdoor maintenance, garage projects, and home DIY tasks. Its dual input voltage capability (110V/220V) broadens its usability across different power sources.

The large LED display is a notable feature, providing clear, easy-to-read data even while wearing a helmet. This display, combined with a lightweight design of just 7.2 lbs, enhances portability, making it an ideal choice for on-the-go welders. The welder's Synergic Control feature is beneficial for beginners, as it automatically adjusts current and voltage, while professionals can manually tweak settings for precise control. The inclusion of adjustable hot start and arc force settings facilitates smoother welding and reduces issues like electrode sticking.

Safety is a priority, with the welder equipped with multiple protection functions against overcurrent, overvoltage, and overheating. However, its build quality, while generally durable, may not withstand extremely rugged conditions. Additionally, the requirement to wait until the screen turns off and the fan stops before powering on can be a minor inconvenience. This welder, backed by positive user reviews and a 2-year service warranty, is a strong contender for both novice and seasoned welders seeking an affordable, portable, and reliable welding machine.

The ARCCAPTAIN Stick Welder, with its 200A capacity, offers an impressive range for various welding tasks. It's user-friendly, featuring an intelligent LED screen design that makes it easy to read data even with your helmet on. This welder is compatible with multiple electrode types (6010, 6011, 6013, and 7018), making it versatile for different welding applications, including outdoor maintenance, garage, farm work, crafts, and home DIY projects.

The inclusion of synergic control means it can automatically match current and voltage, which is great for beginners, though professionals can also manually adjust settings as needed. Weighing just 7.2 lbs, it's highly portable and easy to carry around, whether you use the handle or the shoulder strap provided. Operating on both 110V and 220V input voltage, it offers flexibility for various settings and conditions. The welder is designed with safety in mind, featuring protections against overcurrent, overvoltage, overload, and overheating.

Build quality seems robust, with certifications like TÜV and ANSI ensuring reliability and safety. However, it’s worth noting that the lift TIG function requires a separate torch (not included), which could be an additional cost. Additionally, users should be cautious to power on the unit only after the screen and fan have turned off. The ARCCAPTAIN model stands out for its portability, ease of use, and safety features, making it a solid choice for both hobbyists and more experienced welders.