I own a MIG welder (actually two) and a AC/DC stick welder.
I think to answer your question correctly, we would need to know what you're going to weld.
I've found that that the MIG is good for light work. It's portable and easier to get to the job. But, they can be a little problematic. They aren't nearly as reliable as a stick welder. They typically need much more maintanance.
The stick welder is great for heavy deeper welds. It's very reliable but, it's heavy and not nearly as portable.
I've also used those small portable stick welders. They work but the duty cycle is so short, they're nearly worthless except for spot welds.
If you get a MIG welder buy a name brand. For units like Century and some others its very difficult if not impossible to find replacement parts. I inherited a Century MIG welder from my uncle and have never used it because I can't find parts for it. If anyone knows of a source of parts, please let me know.
Self darkening masks are great. If you get one, make sure it has a darkness control. I have a cheap $39 unit and I'll never go back to a regular mask.
I think to answer your question correctly, we would need to know what you're going to weld.
I've found that that the MIG is good for light work. It's portable and easier to get to the job. But, they can be a little problematic. They aren't nearly as reliable as a stick welder. They typically need much more maintanance.
The stick welder is great for heavy deeper welds. It's very reliable but, it's heavy and not nearly as portable.
I've also used those small portable stick welders. They work but the duty cycle is so short, they're nearly worthless except for spot welds.
If you get a MIG welder buy a name brand. For units like Century and some others its very difficult if not impossible to find replacement parts. I inherited a Century MIG welder from my uncle and have never used it because I can't find parts for it. If anyone knows of a source of parts, please let me know.
Self darkening masks are great. If you get one, make sure it has a darkness control. I have a cheap $39 unit and I'll never go back to a regular mask.
