Flux core welding and general MIG welding are similar methods used for both outdoor and indoor welding projects. However, flux core welding has certain advantages, especially when dealing with metals that are prone to galvanization, rusting, and other forms of corrosion. For hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, a flux core welder is a more suitable choice.
Best Value Flux Core Welders for Money Machines
Welding Town
Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i – Best Entry-Level Welder
The Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i is a welder designed for hobbyists and is priced accordingly, offering good value for what it provides. While it has some flaws, it outperforms many other welders in its price range.
This welder is specifically designed for flux-cored welding and lacks the capability for true MIG welding due to the absence of a gas line support. As such, it is limited to flux-core welding only. However, considering its target audience of beginners, DIY enthusiasts, and those involved in light fabrication work, it serves its purpose well.
Forney has managed to strike a balance between features and cost, creating a welder with an attractive price tag. Despite its affordability, the machine performs well and offers more control over the arc compared to other budget-priced welders. Its portability and sturdy build make it a practical choice for various welding tasks.
While the Forney Easy Weld 140 FC-i may not be suitable for heavy-duty work, it is surprisingly durable and performs better than one would expect from its price range. As long as you use this welder for the right kind of workload, such as light fabrication and DIY projects, it will likely meet your expectations and deliver satisfactory results. However, if you require more advanced welding capabilities or heavy-duty performance, you may need to consider higher-end welders.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | For light use, limited to 120V welding with 140 amp output |
| Built for beginners | Plastic wire drive feed system |
| Lightweight and portable | Short power cord |
| Good build quality | No support for full MIG process |
| Above-average MIG gun for the price | Unable to weld aluminum or stainless steel |
| Infinite voltage and wire speed adjustments | Low duty cycle |
| Built-in rugged handle | The actual wire speed |
| Multiple built-in vents for airflow | |
| Duty cycle and power state lights | |
| Accepts 10lbs. wire rolls | |
| Simple to use, start welding 2 minutes out of the box | |
| All-metal casing with corner protectors on all 8 corners |
