Are you tired of using welding equipment that doesn’t work well? The right flux core welder can change your projects, giving you clean and strong welds easily.
Flux core welding is popular for its flexibility and efficiency. It’s favored by hobbyists and professionals. Unlike traditional welding, it doesn’t need an external shielding gas. This makes it ideal for outdoor projects and working in tough conditions.
Picture having a welder that meets your needs, making each weld smooth and each project a success. But with so many options, how do you choose the best one? Important factors to consider include:
- Current Output (Amps): Opt for welders ranging from 120 to over 200 amps to effectively handle varying material thicknesses. Higher amps are crucial for thicker, more demanding projects.
- Wire Feed Sizes: Consider the wire feed size options. A welder supporting multiple wire sizes gives you flexibility. For example, using 0.030 or 0.035 inch wires can impact the weld’s penetration and quality, crucial for different project needs.
- Duty Cycle: Select a welder with a duty cycle that matches your workload. Higher cycles (up to 60%) are essential for continuous, heavy use, enhancing productivity without overheating risks.
Apart from these features and factors, you still need to consider much more before buying flux core welders. Hence, to help you pick the right one, all the various flux core welders stated here also have their important specifications and options explained along with a comprehensive “Buying Guide” so that by the time you reach the end of this article, you can easily buy the best flux core welder for you.
10 Best Flux Core Welders Table
| Best Flux Core Welders | Amperage | Voltage | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forney 40 FC-I Flux Core Welder | 140 Amps | 120 V | Check On Amazon |
| YESWELDER FLUX-135 Flux Core Welder | 135 Amps | 110 V | Check On Amazon |
| TOOLIOM 200M Flux Core Welder | 200 Amps | 110 V & 220 V | Check On Amazon |
| Hobart Handler 140 Flux Core Welder | 140 Amps | 115 V | Check On Amazon |
| ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 Flux Core Welder | 200 Amps | 110 V & 220 V | Check On Amazon |
| VIVOHOME VH313 Flux Core Welder | 120 Amps | 110 V | Check On Amazon |
| HITBOX HBM1200 Flux Core Welder | 140 Amps | 110 V & 220 V | Check On Amazon |
| Goplus FDS MIG 130 Flux Core Welder | 105 Amps | 110 V | Check On Amazon |
| ETOSHA MIG 160 Flux Core Welder | 160Amps | 110 V | Check On Amazon |
| AZZUNO MIG130F Flux Core Welder | 130 Amps | 110 V | Check On Amazon |
10 Best Flux Core Welders : Reviews
1. Forney 40 FC-I Flux Core Welder
Forney is one of the oldest brand options out there when it comes to welding machines since it offers all kinds of options including a decently powerful flux core welder to its buyers.
The Forney 40 FC-I flux core welder comes at the 1st position of this list since it is one of the most compact flux core welders out there. Even at its given size and compact form factor, you get a fairly decent current output of 14 amps out of this flux core welder. This is combined along with a 0.30 flux core wire allowing you to get precise welds. You also get a fairly good duty cycle of 30% at 90 amps with this welding machine.
Talking about the compatibility of this flux core welder in terms of the metal thickness on which you can work, it is ideal for up to ¼ inch thick metal sheets which is quite good. A great thing about this flux core welder is that it has an inbuilt torch and handle which can be quite handy in a lot of cases. Since Forney is a fairly popular brand, its given 1-year warranty is to be expected.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 140 amps
- Works with up to ¼ inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 30% at 90 amps
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Quite a small and compact welder
- Decently powerful for the given size
- Includes a handy carry handle and torch
Cons:
- Limited number of included accessories
2. YESWELDER FLUX-135 Flux Core Welder
As you can most likely guess by the name, Yeswelder is primarily a brand of welding machines as well as related accessories because of which we have stated its flux core welder in this listicle.
With the Yeswelder Flux 135 flux core welder, you get fairly decent performance numbers and a wide range of handy features making it a great option for many. While you get a decently high current output of 135 amps with it, it only weighs 11 lbs allowing you to take it with you. Talking about its duty cycle, it is quite average at 30% duty cycle which is to be expected from such a portable option.
However, despite having the given current rating, its material thickness is a bit limited at ⅛ inch and can be low for some users. For using this welding machine, you will have to use 0.30 or 0.35 flux wire which makes it fairly versatile. Just like most other brands, Yeswelder also offers a 1-year long warranty with its flux core welder.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 135 amps
- Works with up to ⅛ inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 30%
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable welder
- Decently powerful
- Supports popular flux wire sizes
Cons:
- Material thickness support could have been higher
3. TOOLIOM 200M Flux Core Welder
Tooliom and its welding machine options are known for offering pretty high-performance numbers which is also true for its flux core welder stated here that can be a great option for heavy-duty usage.
The Tooliom 200M MIG flux core welder is the most powerful option stated here in this listicle at least in terms of its current output. To be precise, this heavy-duty flux core welder from Tooliom is able to offer a maximum current output rating of up to 200 amps. Not only that but you also get a superb duty cycle of 60% at 200 A which is much higher than most other welding machines.
However, to achieve such high-performance numbers, it is a bit limited in terms of supported maximum thickness which is only rated at 5/32 inch and slightly lower than most other options. Since this flux core welder is designed for heavy-duty usage, you also get a few handy accessories like wires, feed, cables, electrodes, and others in the box. Similar to most other flux core welders, this one also includes a 1-year warranty.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 200 amps
- Works with up to 5/32 inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 60% at 200 amps
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Excellent current output rating
- Superb duty cycle for long-term usage
- Includes a few handy accessories
Cons:
- Material thickness support could have been higher
4. Hobart Handler 140 Flux Core Welder
While it is a bit on the expensive side, Hobart and welding machines like the flux core welder stated here can be a great option for all those of you who want something highly versatile.
Hobart’s Handler 140 flux core welder comes at the 2nd position of this listicle as this welder comes with a wide range of accessories in the box making this welder highly versatile for a lot of users. Talking about its performance numbers, you get a maximum current output of 140 amps out of it. Although, its duty cycle of 20% at 90 amps is a bit low when compared with most other options out there.
Thankfully, this high-end flux core welder still makes for a great choice for heavy-duty usage as it can weld up to ¼ inch thick materials with ease. Coming to the key feature of this flux core welder, you will be glad to know that it includes all kinds of things like a MIG gun, cables, clamps, power cords, dual gauge regulator, contact tips, drive roll, and material thickness gauge in the box. As you would expect from such a premium welder, it also comes with a 1-year long warranty.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 140 amps
- Works with up to ¼ inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 20% at 90 amps
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Wide range of included accessories
- Precise and accurate welding controls
- Quite a powerful flux core welder
Cons:
- Highly expensive for the given duty cycle
5. ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 Flux Core Welder
The ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 excels in versatility and technical sophistication. It offers a 6-in-1 functionality supporting MIG, Flux MIG, Lift TIG, and MMA welding methods. It particularly shines with its synergic MIG setting. This setting automates the selection of the correct current and wire feeding speed based on the selected wire diameter and material type. This feature ensures optimal welding conditions, easing the workload and making it suitable for both novices and professionals.
The MIG200 has a revolutionary LED display that provides clear and precise control over welding parameters without lifting your helmet. This saves time and enhances safety. Its adaptive burn-back control and crater-fill functionality make it ideal for intricate welding tasks, allowing for finer control over each weld’s finish. The machine’s design includes a fan-on-demand system that reduces noise and energy consumption, operating only when needed to cool the system effectively.
The ARCCAPTAIN MIG200 is moderately portable. It comes with a comfortable carrying handle and a shoulder strap option, making it manageable in various work environments, from shops to fieldwork. However, the weight can be a slight compromise on portability.
Best Features:
- Dual voltage capability of 110V/220V
- Output current ranges from 30 to 200A
- Versatile welding modes including MIG, Flux MIG, Lift TIG, and MMA
- Supports wire sizes of .023”, .030”, and .035” for both solid and flux core
- High duty cycle of 60%
- Efficient with an 85% efficiency rate
- Durable insulation grade H
- Equipped with a fan-on-demand cooling system
- Features a large LED display for easy monitoring
Pros:
- Multi-process capabilities enhance versatility.
- Automated synergic MIG settings simplify setup.
- Advanced features like adaptive crater and burn-back adjustment.
- Energy-efficient cooling system.
Cons:
- Heavier than some portable models.
- TIG torch and spool gun not included, requiring additional purchases.
6. VIVOHOME VH313 Flux Core Welder
Vivohome is a fairly popular brand of all kinds of power tools that can be a great option for using right at your home thanks to their fairly entry-level price tag and performance numbers.
The Vivohome VH313 flux core welder can be another viable option if you are looking for something compact and viable for on-the-go usage. But even at its given size and price tag, the given current output of up to 120 amps is quite decent. When combined with its duty cycle of 15% at 105 amps, you can expect decent results out of it.
Similar to much more expensive flux core welders available out there, this one also has a maximum thickness support of up to ¼ inch for ease of use. Since you will also need accessories for using this flux core welder, Vivohome includes things like a welding helmet, wire brush, connectors, and other things in the box. Another thing that it includes is its 1-year long warranty which is always great to have for reliability.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 120 amps
- Works with up to ¼ inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 15% at 90 amps
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Ideal portable flux core welder
- Works with pretty thick materials with ease
- Decent value for money
Cons:
- Duty cycle is not ideal for heavy-duty usage
7. HITBOX HBM1200 Flux Core Welder
The HITBOX HBM1200 is a highly efficient flux core welder, perfect for small workshops or portable use. This 3-in-1 welder supports Flux MIG, Lift TIG, and MMA welding, offering flexibility for various tasks. The synergic control panel adjusts voltage and wire feed speed based on the chosen amperage, simplifying setup and making it ideal for beginners.
It can operate on both 110V and 220V power supplies, delivering up to 140A output at 220V. This versatility means it can be used in many environments without special electrical setups. The welder is equipped with essential safety features like over-current and overload protection, ensuring both the machine and the operator are protected during operation.
The HITBOX HBM1200 offers a duty cycle of 40%, handling extended welding sessions without overheating. It has some drawbacks, such as a fixed MIG torch and ground clamp that limit customization and the need for additional purchases for a TIG torch. Its instructions can be confusing for beginners.
Best Features:
- Compatible with 110V and 220V input voltages
- Delivers 140A output current at 220V
- Supports Flux MIG, Lift TIG, and MMA welding modes
- Offers a 40% duty cycle for extended use
- Features synergic control for easy operation
- Equipped with over-current and overload protection
- Includes a digital display for clear readouts
- Lightweight and portable for easy transportation
- Works with 0.030” to 0.035” flux core wire
- Built-in fans ensure efficient cooling
Pros:
- Compact and highly portable design.
- Easy-to-use synergic control panel.
- Dual voltage operation for flexibility.
- Reliable safety features.
- Smooth and stable arc performance.
Cons:
- Fixed torch and clamp limit customization.
- TIG torch not included, requiring additional purchase.
8. Goplus FDS MIG 130 Flux Core Welder
Goplus and its welding machine offerings are also quite new in the market, especially when compared with other options because of which it offers fairly affordable and value-for-money options.
This Goplus FDS MIG 130 flux core welder is a great pick for all those of you who wish to get something that offers a high value for money to the user. Starting with the current output of this flux core welder, it is rated at 120 amps which is on par with most other options that are even more expensive than this one. And for the given price, its 40% duty cycle is also quite decent.
Because of these performance numbers, you can use this flux core welder with up to ¼ inch thick metal sheets quite easily. If the performance of this welding machine is not enough, then you will certainly appreciate its wide extent of included accessories. Goplus also includes a 1-year long warranty with this welder which is the same as most others.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 120 amps
- Works with up to ¼ inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 40%
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- High value for money flux core welder
- Decently high-duty cycle
- Features various handy control options
Cons:
- Cooling fans are a bit loud
9. ETOSHA MIG 160 Flux Core Welder
You can also consider Etosha and its flux core welder offerings if you are looking for something that offers high-performance numbers and makes for a great option for heavy-duty usage.
Etosha’s MIG 160 flux core welder can be quite a great option for all those of you who wish to work on large-scale welding projectors. For starters, you get a fairly high current output rating of up to 160 amps out of this flux core welder. However, because of its high current output and limited cooling performance, the duty cycle of 15% is quite low.
That being said, this flux core welder is not going to be limited at all in terms of the things that you can weld using it since it supports up to 15/32 inch thick materials which is the highest in this article. A unique feature of this flux core welder is that it has an IP21 water resistance rating making it great for many users. You also get a 1-year long warranty with this flux core welder for your peace of mind.
Best Features:
- Offers a maximum current output of up to 160 amps
- Works with up to 15/32 inch welding thickness
- Rated duty cycle of 15%
- Comes with a 1 year long warranty period
Pros:
- Great for heavy-duty usage
- Quite a high material thickness support
- Uses a water-resistance design for safety
Cons:
- Poor duty cycle rating
10. AZZUNO MIG130F Flux Core Welder
The AZZUNO MIG130F is an ideal choice for beginners or those who need a lightweight, portable welding solution. This welder is easy to use, with voltage control and wire speed adjustment knobs. The synergic control adjusts the voltage and wire feeding speed automatically based on the selected settings. This makes the welding process simple, even for new us
The MIG130F is compact and lightweight but delivers impressive performance. It can weld mild steel up to 1/8 inch thick and uses IGBT inverter technology for stable and efficient operation. Built-in safety features, like overload and overheating protection, provide peace of mind during extended use. Its small size and comfortable hand grip make it easy to transport, making it convenient for home or small projects.
However, the MIG130F does have its limitations. It lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as a digital display or extensive preset parameters. The instruction manual can be unhelpful, requiring users to rely on intuition or external resources to get started.
Best Features:
- Operates on 110V input voltage.
- Outputs a current range of 20-120A.
- Supports Flux MIG welding modes.
- Offers a 25% duty cycle.
- Includes over-current, over-voltage, and overheating protection.
- Uses knob controls without a display.
- Weighs only 8.6 lbs, making it lightweight and portable.
- Capable of using 0.030” flux core wire.
- Equipped with a built-in cooling system.
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly portable.
- Easy to use with simple knob controls.
- Best for beginners.
- Stable arc performance with IGBT inverter technology.
- Built-in safety features.
Cons:
- Limited to smaller welding tasks.
- Lacks advanced features like a digital display.
Buying Guide For The Best Flux Core Welders
In comparison to most other types of welding machines, a flux core welding machine allows you to weld a lot of pieces together in a short time. Thanks to its continuously fed flux arc welding process, it is one of the best options for heavy-duty usage.
And hence, we have already provided a few of the best flux core welders up above. Even though all these various flux core welders have been explained along with their features and options, you might be interested in learning more. If that is also the case with you, then make sure to check out this detailed buying guide for the best flux core welders:
1. Current Output
While buying a welding machine for your garage or workshop, it is highly important to ensure that it is a powerful one to ensure that it can be used for all kinds of projects. Thankfully, it is quite easy to get an idea of the performance offered by your flux core welder by simply checking its current output.
Talking about the best flux core welders stated above, most of them include current output ratings of around 120 amps which should be ample for the average user. However, if you want a flux core welder designed for heavy-duty usage, then you should go with models that offer a higher current output of 160 amps or 200 amps. This is due to the reason that a higher current output can quickly weld even thicker sheets of metal.
2. Wire Feed Sizes
Flux core welders use wire electrodes, and the size of the wire feed is another crucial consideration. Common wire feed sizes range from 0.030 inches to 0.045 inches. The wire feed size affects the weld penetration and the overall quality of the weld. A smaller wire feed size, such as 0.030 inches, is ideal for welding thin materials, as it provides better control and produces a cleaner weld.
Larger wire feed sizes, like 0.045 inches, are suitable for thicker materials and heavier-duty projects. They offer deeper penetration, making them ideal for structural welding and fabrication tasks. When choosing a welder, ensure it supports the wire feed sizes you intend to use and allows for easy adjustments to switch between different sizes as needed.
3. Duty Cycle
In case you wish to use your flux core welder for heavy-duty usage, then it is highly likely that you will be using your welder for a long time at one go. Although, you cannot use any welding machine including a flux core welder continuously since it can heat up.
To prevent such heating issues, all flux core welders have a duty cycle rating which can be given as 25%, 40%, 50%, and others. For instance, a welder with a 20% duty cycle at 90 amps can weld for 2 minutes before requiring an 8-minute rest, which can be a limitation for extended tasks. However, if you wish to use your flux core welder for a long period continuously, then you will be glad to know that the duty cycle varies at different current output values. While it might be at only 30% at 140 amps, it can increase to 50% or 60% as you drop the current output to 60 amps or 70 amps depending on your flux core welder model.
4. Voltage
Voltage plays a significant role in the welding process as it affects the arc’s stability and penetration. Flux core welders often operate on either 110-120V or 220-240V power supplies. For home use and light-duty projects, a welder with a 110-120V input is usually sufficient and convenient as it can plug into standard household outlets. However, for more demanding tasks requiring deeper penetration, a 220-240V welder is more suitable.
Additionally, some welders come with dual voltage capabilities, allowing you to switch between 110V and 220V. This versatility can be advantageous if you work in various environments with different power availability.
5. Material Thickness
Speaking of the thickness of the metal sheets on which you are using a given welding machine, a powerful flux core welder with a high current output is only going to be useful when it can be effectively used on thick sheets of metal. Thankfully, almost all flux core welders include a support material thickness rating that tells you about the thickness of the metal that you can effectively weld with.
Generally, this rating ranges between ⅛ inch and ¼ inch out of which the latter one is better. If your flux core welder supports a high material thickness, then it can be easily used on both simpler as well as heavy-duty projects where you may have to work on thicker pieces of metal.
6. Controls
Whether you have a powerful flux core welder or an entry-level made for basic usage, you cannot use it properly unless it offers you all of the necessary controls needed to handle a flux core welder. As for the flux core welders stated above, almost all of them offer versatile control options so that you can precisely and accurately weld everything that you need to work on inside your workshop.
This primarily includes the control options for changing the current output and the flux core feed rate. By adjusting both of these, you can effectively adjust your welding speed which is highly important if you want to ensure that all of your welds and joints are correct and done properly. Other than the dials for adjusting such settings and others, you can also find displays on a lot of flux core welders that can show you the current output in precise values to ensure that you have chosen the right one.
7. Portability And Size
Portability is another factor to consider, especially if you need to move your welder frequently. Smaller, lightweight welders are easier to transport and store, making them ideal for on-site repairs and tasks that require mobility. However, portable welders might have limitations in terms of power and duty cycle compared to larger, more stationary models.
When evaluating portability, consider the welder’s weight, handle design, and whether it comes with a carrying case or cart. Balancing portability with performance ensures you have a welder that meets your mobility needs without compromising on functionality.
8. Accessories
If you have ever used a welding machine in the past, then you must know that you need a lot of accessories along with your flux core welder before you can start using it. And while you can buy such accessories separately, many flux core welders include them in the box.
This can include accessories like welding cables, power cables, welding hose, welding flux, carrying bag, tools, and much more. If your flux core welder also comes along with all these, then you can start using your welder right away. Not only that but such flux core welders also offer a better value for money to the user since you will not need to buy these accessories later on.
9. Warranty
Those of you who are getting a brand new flux core welder for their garage or workshop would want it to last for as long as possible. This is due to a simple reason that most welding machines do not come in cheap. As a result, it is always a great idea to check the warranty included with your flux core welder to get an idea of its reliability. Fortunately, almost all flux core welders come backed by a 1-year long warranty. Due to this, you can rely on your flux core welder for heavy-duty usage for a fairly long time without any issues.
FAQs:
A flux core welder is a type of welding machine that uses a tubular wire filled with flux to join metals. This welding process doesn’t require a shielding gas, making it suitable for outdoor and windy conditions.
Flux core welding is generally not suitable for aluminum. For welding aluminum, a MIG welder with the appropriate shielding gas and wire is recommended.
Flux core welding is generally easier to learn and produces cleaner welds compared to stick welding. It also allows for continuous welding without changing rods, making it more efficient for certain tasks.
Flux core welders can weld a variety of metals, including mild steel, stainless steel, and some alloys. However, they are not typically used for non-ferrous metals like aluminum and copper.
A dual-shielded flux core wire requires both the flux inside the wire and an external shielding gas to protect the weld. This method is typically used in industrial applications for improved weld quality.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading our review on the best flux core welders. We hope you found this information helpful and that it made your decision a bit easier. If you still have any doubts, feel free to take a look at our recommendations below for more detailed options. Happy welding!
- Tooliom TL 200M Flux Core Welder: This welder stands out for its high current output of 200 amps and an impressive duty cycle of 60% at 200 amps, making it suitable for heavy-duty tasks. It’s designed for robust performance, although its maximum thickness support is slightly lower than some competitors.
- Hobart Handler 140 Flux Core Welder: Known for its versatility, the Hobart Handler 140 includes a comprehensive range of accessories and offers reliable performance with a 140 amps output. It’s ideal for thick materials up to ¼ inch, despite a lower duty cycle of 20% at 90 amps.
- Goplus FDS MIG 130 Flux Core Welder: This model provides good value for money with a duty cycle of 40% and a current output of 120 amps. It’s designed for both affordability and effective performance, suitable for up to ¼ inch thick materials.
