TOP 15 best semi-automatic welding machines: 2024-2025 rating for price / quality and which inverter type to choose for a garage
A semi-automatic welding machine differs from conventional welding machines in that it does not use coated electrodes, but a special wire.
Thanks to this, the devices allow you to get a high-quality weld when working with a variety of metals. This explains the increased popularity of semi-automatic welding.
The rating in terms of price / quality ratio, which contains the best models of such devices, will help you choose the right model.
When selecting semiautomatic devices, recommendations from professional welders, user reviews and official test data from Rostest were taken into account.
Rating of the TOP-15 best semi-automatic welding machines of 2024-2025
Place | Name | Price |
---|---|---|
TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines by price / quality for 2024-2025 | ||
1 | SPECIAL MAG-170 INVERTOR | Ask for a price |
2 | Wester MIG 140i | Ask for a price |
3 | Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N) BLACK | Ask for a price |
4 | Aurora OVERMAN 180 | Ask for a price |
5 | Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN | Ask for a price |
TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding (MMA) | ||
1 | Aurora SPEEDWAY 200 Synergic | Ask for a price |
2 | STAVR SAU-200M | Ask for a price |
3 | RESANTA SAIPA-135 | Ask for a price |
4 | Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N) | Ask for a price |
5 | Aurora SPEEDWAY 180 | Ask for a price |
TOP 5 best welding semi-automatic argon welding (TIG) | ||
1 | Fubag IRMIG 200 SYN | Ask for a price |
2 | FoxWeld InverMig 18 | Ask for a price |
3 | RESANTA SAIPA-190MF | Ask for a price |
4 | Fubag IRMIG 180 SYN | Ask for a price |
5 | Svarog PRO MIG 200 | Ask for a price |
Content
- Rating of the TOP-15 best semi-automatic welding machines of 2024-2025
- How to choose a semi-automatic welding machine?
- TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines by price / quality for 2024-2025
- TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding (MMA)
- TOP 5 best welding semi-automatic argon welding (TIG)
- Customer Reviews
- Useful video
How to choose a semi-automatic welding machine?
When choosing a semi-automatic welding machine, first of all, it is necessary to determine the scope of its use..
Inexpensive devices are suitable for domestic use, and for a small workshop it is better to choose more expensive models with advanced functionality and advanced technical characteristics.
The main criteria for choosing a semi-automatic welding machine include:
- Voltage and output current adjustment range. For domestic use, a device with modest characteristics will suffice. But, if the device is planned to be used to perform a large amount of work with a wire of the maximum allowable diameter, it is better to choose a device with a high level of outgoing current.
- Power. The lower this indicator, the less network drawdown will be during welding. In order for the device to work even from a network with unstable voltage, it is better to choose a model based on modern IGBT or MOSFET transistors.
- Dimensions and weight. This criterion is especially important if welding is planned to be transported frequently or stored in a small room. But it should be borne in mind that compact devices usually have reduced power, although they are quite enough for domestic needs.
Be sure to take into account the possibility of connecting the device to a household electrical outlet, as well as the type and thickness of the metals with which they will work.
TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines by price / quality for 2024-2025
Semi-automatic welding machines are often chosen for domestic use, as they have not only the necessary technical characteristics, but also an acceptable cost.
SPECIAL MAG-170 INVERTOR
This model of the welding inverter is intended for semi-automatic welding in at home.
The device is single-phase, so it can be connected to a household power supply without fear of a voltage drop. The output current is constant, and the open-circuit voltage of 56 V allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses.
The device is considered universal, as it allows welding metals with both coated electrodes and wire with a diameter of 0.60 to 0.80 mm.
The device is easy to use and easy to start, as it has a hot start function.
Thanks to this, even beginners will be able to perform welding work, especially since all the nuances of the work are described in detail in the user manual.
Specifications:
- weight 9.8 kg;
- dimensions (W / H / D) 285x290x395 mm;
- power 6.40 kW.
pros
- light weight facilitates transportation;
- convenient storage due to compact dimensions;
- democratic value;
- suitable for welding with electrode and wire;
- allows you to perform high-quality welding of metals of different thicknesses.
Minuses
- a mask from a low quality kit;
- poor quality mass cable.
Wester MIG 140i
Inexpensive, but quite functional welding semiautomatic device is specially designed for domestic use, but it can also be used to perform other work in a small car repair shop.
The device is universal, as it allows you to get a high-quality weld both in a manual arc method and in a semi-automatic way using an electrode wire.
Constant output current and open-circuit voltage of 55 V allows you to work with different types of steel, aluminum of different thicknesses and other metals and alloys.
You can start working immediately after purchasing the device, since everything you need is provided with the device itself: a torch, a cable with an electrode holder, a brush-hammer, a welding shield, steel welding wire and a contact tip.
Even beginners will be able to work with a semi-automatic welding machine, because all the working nuances are described in detail in the instructions.
Specifications:
- weight 9 kg;
- electrode diameter 1.60 mm;
- power 4.70 kW.
pros
- optimal price-quality ratio;
- ideal for use at home, in the garage or small car service;
- suitable for various types of welding;
- extended equipment;
- allows you to get a smooth and high-quality seam.
Minuses
- poor quality mask included;
- short cable.
Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N) BLACK
For some users, the price of this welding machine seems too high, but it fully compensated by its functionality and detailed technical characteristics.
Professional welders consider this model one of the best, because it allows you to work with a manual arc method (using a coated electrode), welding with a flux-cored wire and in a shielding gas environment.
There is also a cheaper modification of this welding machine, but its equipment is not so extensive..
The open-circuit voltage in the device is 60 V, and since the user receives a direct current at the output, he will be able to work with different types of metals, including thin aluminum.
The kit includes everything you need to get started, including a detailed user manual.
Specifications:
- weight 13 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 225x375x502 mm;
- electrode diameter 1.50-4 mm.
pros
- ideal for home use;
- allows you to get a smooth and high-quality seam, regardless of the type of metal;
- everything you need to work in the kit;
- cooks even at low voltage in the network;
- reliable and proven manufacturer.
Minuses
- no digital display;
- no carrying handle provided.
Aurora OVERMAN 180
This model of welding machine is designed for semi-automatic welding in the environment shielded gases and for work with self-shielded flux-cored wire.
The device can operate at the maximum current level for a long time, so it can be used even in small workshops or even for simple tasks on an industrial scale.
Optimum open-circuit voltage and the ability to work even when connected to a network with unstable voltage allows the welding machine to be used for welding various types of metals.
In terms of dimensions, the model is not the most compact.
The weight is also very impressive when compared with analogues, so you won’t be able to quickly and easily transfer the device, and you will have to provide enough space for its storage, but these inconveniences are fully offset by advanced functionality.
Specifications:
- weight 15.5 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 197x466x482 mm;
- power 4.70 kW.
pros
- optimal cost, given the excellent build quality;
- convenient location of the power button;
- a thick power cable is provided in the kit;
- allows you to get an even seam on metals of different thicknesses;
- simple and clear user manual.
Minuses
- you need to adjust to the wire feed speed;
- impressive dimensions and heavy weight.
Fubag IRMIG 160 SYN
The welding machine of the middle price category is considered universal, as it fits and for manual arc and argon arc welding.
A semi-automatic welding mode is also provided, and a wide selection of wire diameters (from 0.60 to 1 mm) allows you to work with metals of various types and thicknesses, obtaining a perfectly smooth high-quality weld.
The device belongs to single-phase welding machines. This allows you to use the device even when connected to a household power supply and work in unstable voltage conditions.
Additionally, the device has a microprocessor control, which facilitates operation and makes the device suitable even for novice users.
Specifications:
- weight 12 kg;
- dimensions (W / H / D) 240x350x470 mm;
- power 6.20 kW.
pros
- easy to store due to compact dimensions;
- a wide range of functions for different types of welding;
- clear instructions make it easy to use;
- optimal starting equipment;
- acceptable cost.
Minuses
- low-quality wires are provided in the kit;
- hard to find accessories for sale.
TOP 5 best semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding (MMA)
Semi-automatic welding machines with manual arc welding are perfect for household tasks and short-term work with metal.Five models were recognized as the best devices in this category.
Aurora SPEEDWAY 200 Synergic
This model of the welding machine is considered universal, since it can be used to perform welding work with metals in the mode of manual arc and argon arc welding.
Additionally, a semi-automatic welding mode is provided. This makes the device suitable for a wide range of jobs, including construction and auto repair.
The device can be connected to a household power supply, and the device works without failures even with an unstable level of voltage in the network.
The device can be used to produce welds using coated electrodes and special welding wire.
The feed rate of the latter can be adjusted, focusing on the type of metal and its thickness. To increase the comfort of operation, the device has an arc force and a hot start function.
Specifications:
- weight 8 kg;
- size (W/H/D) 170x300x386 mm;
- open circuit voltage 56 V.
pros
- flexible and convenient settings;
- a wide range of welding modes;
- suitable for working with different types of metal;
- easy to transport due to small weight and size;
- detailed user manual.
Minuses
- some users find the price too high;
- not always on sale.
STAVR SAU-200M
A compact and budget welding machine of domestic production can work in manual arc and semi-automatic welding mode.
This significantly expands the scope of the device, so it can be used both for simple household tasks and for more complex work in a small production or in a car repair shop.
Another feature of the device is in the optimal open circuit voltage (59 V). Thanks to this, the device can be used to work with metal with a thickness of 0.60 to 1 mm.
The manufacturer has made sure that the device is as easy to use as possible.
To do this, the device provides anti-stick electrode, arc force and hot start function for easy start.
The kit includes all the necessary cables and accessories to get started.
Specifications:
- weight 10.4 kg;
- size (W/H/D) 205x350x420 mm;
- power 7.30 kW.
pros
- democratic value;
- optimal technical characteristics for domestic use;
- simple and convenient adjustments;
- excellent build quality;
- optimal combination of price and functionality;
- compact dimensions make it easy to store.
Minuses
- low-quality cables included;
- some accessories have to be purchased separately.
RESANTA SAIPA-135
Compact, handy and functional welding machine that can be used not only at home, but also on the road.
Despite the fact that the body of the device weighs a little more than 10 kg, a convenient handle is provided in the upper part of the body for transporting the device. The dimensions are compact, so storage problems will also not arise.
The device is universal, as it can work in the mode of manual arc and semi-automatic welding using a special wire.
The diameter of the wire ranges from 0.60-0.80 mm, which allows you to work with metals of different types and thicknesses.
The kit is not the widest, and includes only a cable with a burner and a ground terminal, but this is quite enough to start using it.
Specifications:
- weight 9.82 kg;
- size (W/H/D) 230x350x590 mm;
- power 6.60 kW.
pros
- very easy to adjust the settings;
- simple design;
- democratic cost with excellent build quality;
- allows you to get a perfectly even seam;
- does not take up much storage space.
Minuses
- no fan for blowing dust;
- short cables included.
Svarog REAL MIG 200 (N24002N)
This model of the welding machine is intended for semi-automatic welding in the environment protective gases.
The device is suitable both for work in the mode of manual arc welding, and for work with a flux-cored wire.
Since the device is single-phase, it can even be connected to a household power supply, and the device will work without failure even with an unstable level of voltage in the network.
The device can work both with coated electrodes with a diameter of 1.50-4 mm, and with wire, and the user can adjust the speed of its supply independently.
Together with the device itself, the user receives a starter kit with everything necessary to get started.
Specifications:
- weight 13 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 225x375x502 mm;
- open circuit voltage 60 V.
pros
- suitable even for beginners with no welding experience;
- Everything you need to get started is included in the kit.
- allows you to get a high quality weld, regardless of the type of metal;
- comes with a quality mask;
- acceptable cost.
Minuses
- very short cable included;
- not very convenient analog voltage setting.
Aurora SPEEDWAY 180
Versatile, functional and relatively inexpensive welding machine, designed for a wide range of jobs.
The device can operate in manual arc, semi-automatic and argon arc welding.
The open circuit voltage is high enough, so the user can work with metal of different types and thicknesses.
At the same time, the seams will remain even and of high quality.
The owner will be able to independently adjust the wire feed speed, focusing on the type of metal and the required characteristics of the seam.
Another advantage of the model is its low weight and compact dimensions, which facilitate storage, and a special handle on the case makes it easy to carry the device.
Specifications:
- weight 8 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 170x300x390 mm;
- power 7.10 kW.
pros
- small weight and dimensions;
- Ease of controls;
- optimal preset welding parameters;
- acceptable cost;
- excellent build quality.
Minuses
- not suitable for welding thin aluminum sheets;
- some users have difficulty adjusting the settings.
TOP 5 best welding semi-automatic argon welding (TIG)
Semi-automatic welding machines for argon welding are rightfully considered one of the most convenient and functional, as they allow you to perform a wide range of work in everyday life and a home workshop.
Fubag IRMIG 200 SYN
This welding machine belongs to the middle price category, and has all the the necessary characteristics and functions for full-fledged household use.
The device can operate in the mode of manual arc, argon-arc and semi-automatic welding, which significantly expands the scope of its application.
In addition, the device can work with metals of different types and thicknesses, and allows you to get a perfectly even and high-quality seam, even if the user has no experience in performing such work..
The device belongs to a single-phase type, so it can easily be connected to a household electrical outlet.
The device allows you to get a stable arc, even if the mains voltage is unstable.
For more convenient operation, microprocessor control is provided, and all the nuances of operation are detailed in the instructions.
Specifications:
- weight 12 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 320x440x550 mm;
- open circuit voltage 65 V.
pros
- advanced functionality;
- can work in different modes;
- democratic value;
- a wide range of settings;
- High quality burner included.
Minuses
- only one tip is provided in the kit;
- not very clear instructions.
FoxWeld InverMig 18
This model of the welding machine allows you to weld metals with a constant current.
The device used inverter technology for converting and controlling the welding current.
It allows you to increase the power and performance of the device, but at the same time the device itself has a small weight and reduced dimensions..
This greatly facilitates storage, and with the help of a plastic handle on the body, the device can be easily carried.
The manufacturer has taken care of the maximum ease of use of the device. The welding machine can operate both from an electrode with a diameter of 1.60-4 mm, and from a wire (0.60-1 mm in diameter).
The device comes with all the tools and accessories you need to get started.
Specifications:
- weight 20 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 197x466x480 mm;
- power 5.60 kW.
pros
- optimal technical characteristics for domestic use;
- acceptable cost;
- high-quality body assembly;
- a wide range of settings;
- works even with unstable network voltage.
Minuses
- short hose included;
- not very convenient to adjust the wire feed speed.
RESANTA SAIPA-190MF
One of the most successful domestic models of welding machines. She got high evaluation of professional welders, as it allows you to work in one of three modes: manual arc, semi-automatic and argon arc welding.
Also, the device is suitable for welding metal using electrodes (1.60-5 mm in diameter) or special wire with a diameter (0.60-0.80 mm), the latter being provided in the kit..
Despite the wide range of functions and flexible settings, the welding machine is considered suitable for beginners.
The manufacturer supplied the device with detailed instructions, which describe all the nuances of operation, and simple operation and making adjustments to the settings make it much easier to use.
Specifications:
- weight 11.26 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 215x330x445 mm;
- open circuit voltage 80 V.
pros
- reliable and proven domestic manufacturer;
- high power and performance;
- three welding modes are provided;
- compact dimensions facilitate storage;
- adequate cost.
Minuses
- inconvenient mode switch;
- housing materials of poor quality.
Fubag IRMIG 180 SYN
One of the best welding machines on the market today. In addition to the argon mode welding, the device provides manual arc and semi-automatic mode.
Thanks to this, the device is suitable for both domestic and semi-professional use..
The technical characteristics of the device are sufficient for welding metals of various types and thicknesses without harming the quality of the seam.
The manufacturer made sure that the welding machine was extremely easy to use, and provided it with a convenient and thoughtful microprocessor control, as well as an understandable instruction that describes in detail all the features of working with the device.
Specifications:
- weight 12 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 320x440x550 mm;
- open circuit voltage 65 V.
pros
- adequate cost;
- flexible settings;
- allows you to get a seam of high quality;
- high-quality body assembly;
- extended set.
Minuses
- some users have difficulties with the settings;
- not always on sale.
Svarog PRO MIG 200
This domestic-made welding machine is considered one of the most expensive on the market. market, but its cost is fully offset by excellent technical characteristics and thoughtful functionality.
In particular, the device provides three welding modes: argon-arc, manual arc and semi-automatic. Thanks to this, the device can be used not only at home or in the garage, but even in small production or in a car repair shop.
In addition to the standard features, the device also provides additional features for easier operation..
These include electrode anti-stick, arc force and hot start function.
You can start working immediately after purchasing the device, because all the necessary parts are provided in the kit.
Specifications:
- weight 12.5 kg;
- size (W / H / D) 185x370x485 mm;
- open circuit voltage 53 V.
pros
- allows you to get perfectly even and high-quality seams;
- three welding modes are provided;
- easy use and flexible settings;
- excellent build quality and components;
- Suitable for home and professional use.
Minuses
- costs more than analogues;
- some users consider the equipment to be insufficient for full-fledged work.
Customer Reviews
Useful video
From the video you will learn how to choose a semi-automatic welding machine:
