10 Best MIG Welders Under 500 (November 2026)
The best MIG welders under 500 include the ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 for a multi-process home shop, the YESWELDER 160A MIG Welder for a lighter 4-in-1, and the YESWELDER 135A MIG Welder for gasless starter projects.
On this page (7 sections)
The ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 is the top pick for most buyers looking for a MIG welder under 500, with gas and solid-wire MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, spot welding and lift TIG modes. Choose the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC or Lincoln Electric Weld-Pak 90i FC for focused flux-core work.
A budget cap still leaves meaningful choices. Decide first whether you need gas MIG, gasless flux core, dual voltage or extra processes, then compare wire capacity and controls.
Use our guide to MIG welder types if you're deciding between processes. If your projects are mainly household repairs, our best MIG welders for home use guide narrows the choices by shop needs.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for dual-voltage MIG controlCheck it - 5
Best for 2 lb or 10 lb spoolsCheck it - 6
Best for simple flux-core setupCheck it - 7
Check itLincoln Electric Weld-Pak 90i FC
Best for small 120V jobs - 8
Best for portable flux-core weldingCheck it - 9
Best for dual-voltage flux-core workCheck it - 10
Best for lightweight 110V useCheck it
How we chose MIG welders under 500
The best MIG welders under 500 offer a useful match between process options, power needs and the kind of work you expect to do. We compared the products' process modes, voltage, wire compatibility, controls and portability.
We scored each model against the needs of a buyer shopping in this price tier. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
Prices change, so check the current price and included accessories before buying.
Compare MIG welders under 500
These picks split into multi-process machines and focused flux-core models. Check the process and power rows first, then look at spool size and controls.
| Product | Best for | Processes | Input | Wire | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 | a multi-process home shop | Gas and solid-wire MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, spot, lift TIG | 110V/220V | .023, .030, .035 in solid; .030, .035 in flux core | 9.0 |
| YESWELDER 160A MIG Welder | a lighter 4-in-1 | Gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V/220V | .030 and .035 in solid or flux-core | 8.9 |
| YESWELDER 135A MIG Welder | gasless starter projects | Flux-core MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V | 8.8 | |
| ARCCAPTAIN 165A MIG Welder | dual-voltage MIG control | Gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V/220V | 8.5 | |
| YESWELDER 165A MIG Welder | 2 lb or 10 lb spools | Gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V/220V | .023, .030 and .035 in | 8.4 |
| Forney Easy Weld 140 FC | simple flux-core setup | 120V | .030 in flux core | 8.4 | |
| Lincoln Electric Weld-Pak 90i FC | small 120V jobs | 120V | 8.3 | ||
| ARCCAPTAIN 135A MIG Welder | portable flux-core welding | Flux-core MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V | 8.0 | |
| ANDELI 135A Pulse MIG Welder | dual-voltage flux-core work | Pulse flux-core, gasless MIG, lift TIG, stick | 110V/220V | .030, .035 and .040 in flux-core | 7.6 |
| SEESII 135A MIG Welder | lightweight 110V use | Gasless MIG, stick, lift TIG | 110V | .030 in flux core included | 7.4 |
The best MIG welders under 500 for different shops
The ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 leads for buyers who want more than MIG, while the YESWELDER 160A offers four processes and 110V/220V input. The remaining picks cover gasless welding, simpler controls and lower carry weight.
ARCCAPTAIN MIG200: Best for a multi-process home shop
- Gas and flux-core MIG
- Stick, spot and lift TIG modes
- Optional spool gun connector
- Stores 10 preset settings
The broad process range suits a shop that wants options beyond MIG. The TIG gun and spool gun aren't included, and the .023 in and .040 in rollers must be bought separately.
Pros
- Five listed welding modes
- Stores 10 preset settings per welding mode
- Optional spool gun connector
Cons
- TIG gun and spool gun aren't included
- .023 in and .040 in rollers must be bought separately
The ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 is a flexible pick if your shop may use more than one process. It supports gas and solid-wire MIG, flux-core MIG, stick, spot welding and lift TIG.
Its synergic control recommends current and wire feed based on the wire diameter and gas material you select. The machine also stores 10 preset settings for each welding mode, which can save repeated setup work across familiar jobs.
The spool gun connector is optional, and neither the spool gun nor TIG gun is included. The machine supports aluminum wire in .035 in and .040 in sizes, and .040 in rollers must be bought separately.
Pick the MIG200 if you want process flexibility and saved settings. It may be more than you need if you only want flux-core wire feed.
YESWELDER 160A MIG Welder: Best for a lighter 4-in-1
- Gas and flux-core MIG
- Stick and lift TIG modes
- 110V/220V dual voltage
- 27.5 lb machine weight
This dual-voltage machine covers four processes and weighs 27.5 lb. Its lift TIG torch is an extra purchase.
Pros
- Four welding modes
- Works with 2 lb and 10 lb spools
- Synergic and manual MIG control
Cons
- Lift TIG torch must be purchased separately
- Wire sizes listed are .030 and .035 in
The YESWELDER 160A is a fit for buyers who want four processes and dual-voltage input. It offers gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG, with 110V/220V input and a machine weight of 27.5 lb.
Synergic control recommends voltage and wire feed as you select thickness or adjust amperage. Manual voltage and wire-feed controls are also available.
It works with 2 lb and 10 lb spools of .030 in and .035 in solid or flux-core wire. The lift TIG torch must be purchased separately.
YESWELDER 135A MIG Welder: Best for gasless starter projects
- Flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG
- 110V input
- 18.3 lb machine weight
- Synergic control with voltage adjustment
This 110V choice focuses on gasless flux-core MIG, with stick and lift TIG as added modes. The lift TIG torch is an extra purchase.
Pros
- Flux-core wire included
- Portable design
- Manual voltage micro-adjustment
Cons
- No gas MIG mode
- Lift TIG torch must be purchased separately
The YESWELDER 135A suits a beginner who wants a gasless starting point. Its processes are flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG, and it runs on 110V input.
The machine includes E71T-GS flux-core wire in .030 in and .035 in sizes. Synergic control recommends voltage based on wire feed speed, and a ±3V adjustment lets you fine-tune the arc.
This model has no gas MIG mode, and the lift TIG torch must be purchased separately. For outdoor work where gas cylinders are inconvenient, its flux-core focus can be useful.
ARCCAPTAIN 165A MIG Welder: Best for dual-voltage MIG control
- Gas and flux-core MIG
- Stick and lift TIG modes
- 110V/220V input
- 60% rated duty cycle
The MIG165 combines four modes with dual-voltage input and a rated 60% duty cycle. It holds a 2 lb spool only, and its TIG torch must be purchased separately.
Pros
- Synergic and manual MIG settings
- 2T and 4T functions
- Includes 2 lb flux-core wire
Cons
- 2 lb spool capacity only
- Lift TIG torch must be purchased separately
The ARCCAPTAIN 165A is a dual-voltage choice with four processes and a stated duty-cycle rating. It supports gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG, with 110V/220V input and a 60% rated duty cycle.
Its controls include synergic settings for plate thickness, voltage and welding speed, plus manual MIG adjustments. It also offers 2T and 4T trigger modes for different torch-control preferences.
This machine holds a 2 lb spool only. If you expect to use a 10 lb spool, compare the YESWELDER 165A below.
YESWELDER 165A MIG Welder: Best for 2 lb or 10 lb spools
- Gas and flux-core MIG
- Stick and lift TIG modes
- 110V/220V input
- Works with 2 lb and 10 lb spools
This 165A machine supports several wire sizes and both 2 lb and 10 lb spools. It offers synergic and manual MIG control.
Pros
- Four welding modes
- Detachable MIG torch
- Dual voltage
Cons
- Lift TIG torch must be purchased separately
- 25.8 lb machine weight
The YESWELDER 165A is a fit when spool flexibility matters. It supports 2 lb and 10 lb spools with .023 in, .030 in and .035 in wire, along with 110V/220V input.
Gas MIG, flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG give it four process options. The detachable MIG torch is designed for easier installation and maintenance, while synergic and manual controls suit different setup preferences.
This model shares a dual-voltage format with several picks, so compare its wire range and detachable torch with the ARCCAPTAIN 165A. The lift TIG torch must be purchased separately.
Forney Easy Weld 140 FC: Best for simple flux-core setup
- Flux-core wire feed
- 120V input
- Infinite voltage and wire-feed controls
- Works with 2 lb and 10 lb wire rolls
The Forney keeps the setup focused on flux-core wire feed, with separate voltage and wire-speed controls. It needs no shielding gas.
Pros
- No gas required
- Infinite voltage and wire-speed controls
- Handles 2 lb and 10 lb rolls
Cons
- Flux-core only
- Requires at least a 20A breaker for standard household power
The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC suits buyers who want a simple flux-core setup. It uses .030 in flux-core wire and doesn't require shielding gas.
Infinite voltage and wire-feed controls let you adjust the weld settings. It handles 2 lb and 10 lb rolls, weighs 19 lb, and requires at least a 20A breaker for standard household power.
Choose it for dedicated flux-core work with straightforward controls. Look at the multi-process models above if you want gas MIG or stick in the same machine.
Lincoln Electric Weld-Pak 90i FC: Best for small 120V jobs
- Flux-core wire feed
- 120V input
- 15 lb machine weight
- Two control knobs
This compact flux-core machine has two controls for wire speed and voltage. Lincoln describes it for small jobs, home repairs and hobby use.
Pros
- Portable with shoulder strap
- Metal case
- Simple two-knob control
Cons
- Flux-core only
- No gas MIG mode
The Lincoln Electric Weld-Pak 90i FC suits small jobs where portability matters. It weighs 15 lb, runs on 120V input and uses two knobs for wire speed and voltage.
Lincoln describes it for DIY projects, home repairs and hobby work. Its package includes a welding gun, nozzle, contact tip, work cable and clamp, with a metal case for protection.
This model focuses on flux-core wire feed. Choose one of the dual-voltage machines if you need gas MIG or additional welding modes.
ARCCAPTAIN 135A MIG Welder: Best for portable flux-core welding
- Flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG
- 110V input
- 9.48 lb machine weight
- Synergic and manual adjustment
At 9.48 lb, this 110V machine is easy to carry between work areas. Its listed modes are flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Synergic and manual MIG adjustment
- 2T and 4T options
Cons
- Lift TIG torch must be purchased separately
- No gas MIG mode
The ARCCAPTAIN 135A is a light option with several welding modes, at a stated 9.48 lb. It runs on 110V and supports flux-core MIG, stick and lift TIG.
Synergic control recommends voltage and wire feed, and manual adjustments are also available. The machine has 2T and 4T options, plus hot start and arc force settings for stick welding.
The lift TIG torch must be purchased separately. This is a compact option for buyers who want more than flux-core MIG but don't need gas MIG or dual voltage.
ANDELI 135A Pulse MIG Welder: Best for dual-voltage flux-core work
- 110V/220V input
- Pulse flux-core MIG
- Stick and lift TIG modes
- Supports .030, .035 and .040 in flux-core wire
This machine pairs pulse flux-core welding with dual-voltage input and stick and lift TIG modes. The lift TIG torch is sold separately.
Pros
- Dual voltage
- Adjustable inductance control
- Includes welding accessories
Cons
- Lift TIG torch is sold separately
- Face protection includes goggles and a face shield
The ANDELI 135A is a dual-voltage option centered on pulse flux-core welding. It also supports gasless MIG, lift TIG and stick modes, and works with .030 in, .035 in and .040 in flux-core wire.
Its adjustable inductance control lets you tune arc stability and spatter. The 4.1 in display shows real-time data, and the included accessories include flux-core wire, gloves and face protection described as goggles and a face shield.
The lift TIG torch is sold separately. Check which accessories your planned process needs.
SEESII 135A MIG Welder: Best for lightweight 110V use
- Gasless MIG, stick and lift TIG
- 110V input
- 13.37 lb machine weight
- Includes a 1 lb spool of flux-core wire
SEESII's feature text claims 7.7 lb, while the spec section gives a machine weight of 13.37 lb. Check the carry weight before choosing it for work where weight matters.
Pros
- Three listed welding modes
- Flux-core wire included
- Compact for carrying
Cons
- Lift TIG torch isn't included
- Weight claims differ
The SEESII 135A supports 110V gasless work and includes flux-core wire. Its modes are gasless MIG, stick and lift TIG, and it comes with a 1 lb spool of .030 in flux-core wire.
The feature text gives a weight of 7.7 lb, while the spec section gives a machine weight of 13.37 lb. Confirm the carry weight before choosing it for work where weight matters.
Its lift TIG torch isn't included. Consider it if you want a 110V machine and its three-process range fits your plans.
Which process should a MIG welder under 500 support?
Choose the process based on where and what you'll weld. Flux core can work without shielding gas, while gas MIG uses solid wire with shielding gas.
Some machines add stick and lift TIG, but extra modes only help if you plan to use them. For a closer comparison, read MIG vs flux-core welders.
Is dual voltage worth choosing?
Dual voltage helps when you have access to both 110V and 220V power and want a machine that can connect to either. Check circuit requirements and follow the machine's instructions when changing voltage settings.
The YESWELDER 160A, ARCCAPTAIN 165A, YESWELDER 165A, ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 and ANDELI 135A are listed as dual voltage. For a single-voltage shop, a focused 110V or 120V machine may be enough.
What should you check before buying?
Check wire sizes and spool capacity against the wire you already use or plan to buy. A 2 lb spool limit can matter if you prefer larger rolls.
Also compare accessory needs. Several lift TIG models require a separate torch, and the MIG200's spool gun is optional, so check those needs when comparing the machines.
Duty cycle matters if you plan long welding runs. Only the ARCCAPTAIN 165A has a duty-cycle figure in the product facts, so read how much duty cycle you need in a welder before using another model for sustained work.
If you mainly weld thin panels, compare the task with the process and control options in our guide to welders for auto body and sheet metal. For broader tradeoffs between machine types, see MIG vs stick welding.
Which MIG welder under 500 should you choose?
Choose the ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 if you want several welding processes and saved settings. Pick the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC for focused flux-core work with simple controls, or the YESWELDER 160A for four modes and 110V/220V input.
For a 110V machine, compare the ARCCAPTAIN 135A and YESWELDER 135A by their process range and accessory needs. Start with the MIG welders category guide to compare broader options, then confirm the current price and included accessories before you buy.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
Can you get a good MIG welder under 500?
Yes. Under 500, you can find machines with gas MIG, flux-core wire feed, or multiple welding modes.
Compare the processes, input voltage, spool sizes and controls with the work you plan to do.
A lower price cap doesn't tell you which machine fits your power supply or material.
Is flux-core welding the same as MIG?
Flux-core uses a tubular wire that contains flux and can work without shielding gas. Gas MIG uses solid wire with shielding gas.
Some machines support both methods, while others are flux-core only.
Our MIG vs flux-core comparison explains the practical differences.
Should I choose a 110V or 220V MIG welder?
Choose based on the outlet you can use and the work you expect to do. Dual-voltage machines can connect to either voltage, but follow the machine's instructions when changing voltage settings.
Check your circuit and the welder's input requirements before connecting it.
Can a budget MIG welder weld aluminum?
Some machines support an optional spool gun or another aluminum setup, but not every model is ready to weld aluminum out of the box. Check the specific machine's compatible wire, torch and accessories.
See our guide to welding aluminum with a MIG welder.
What should I compare besides amperage?
Compare process modes, input voltage, wire and spool compatibility, control options, machine weight and rated duty cycle when available. Those details affect how the welder fits your shop and projects.
Our guide to welder duty cycle explains how to read that rating.
