When shopping for a welding machine, you’ll see terms like inverter, portable, digital, or analog. Here’s what they mean:
1. Inverter vs. Transformer Welders
| Type | Inverter Welder (Recommended) | Transformer Welder |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Weight | ✅ Light & compact | ❌ Bulky & heavy |
| Power Use | ✅ Energy-saving | ❌ Consumes more |
| Weld Stability | ✅ Smooth, stable arc | ❌ Less stable arc |
| Cost to Run | ✅ Cheaper long-term | ❌ Costly to run |
| Durability | ❌ Sensitive to dust/power | ✅ Rugged, long-life |
➡ Inverter welders are better for home use. Easier to carry, saves power, and gives better welds.
2. Portable vs. Heavy-Duty Welders
| Type | Portable Welder (Recommended) | Heavy-Duty Welder |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ✅ 2kg–5kg | ❌ 10kg+ |
| Power (Amps) | ✅ 160A–200A | ✅ 200A+ |
| Use Case | ✅ Furniture, home DIY | ✅ Thick steel work |
| Price Range | ✅ ₱3,500–₱10,000 | ❌ ₱10,000–₱50,000 |
➡ For making furniture or home welding, a portable MMA inverter (160A–200A) is enough.
3. Analog vs. Digital Display
| Type | Analog Welder | Digital Display Welder (Recommended) |
|---|---|---|
| Display | ❌ No screen | ✅ Shows exact amps |
| Ease of Use | ✅ Simple controls | ✅ Better for learning |
| Price | ✅ Cheaper | ❌ Slightly pricier |
➡ Digital displays help you weld more accurately. Optional, but helpful.
4. MMA (Stick) vs. MIG Welders
| Feature | MMA (Stick) Welder (Budget Pick) | MIG/FCAW Welder (Cleaner Welds) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Used | Welding rods (6013, 7018) | Wire spool (solid/flux-cored) |
| Gas Needed? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (MIG) / ❌ No (FCAW) |
| User-Friendliness | ❌ Takes practice | ✅ Easier (point and weld) |
| Weld Cleanliness | ❌ Rough, needs chipping | ✅ Smooth finish |
| Best For | Thick steel, low budget | Furniture, cleaner projects |
➡ Start with MMA (stick) for learning. Use E6013 rods and a 160A–200A inverter unit.
➡ For cleaner welds, go MIG/FCAW, but it costs more.
Final Buying Tips – MMA Inverter Welder Checklist
✅ Inverter Type – lightweight, efficient
✅ 160A to 200A – works for 2mm to 6mm thick steel
✅ Portable – easier to store, move around
✅ Digital Display – helpful, not required
