I'm planning to buy my first welder in the very near future. As for brand, I've decided to buy a Miller but I can't decide whether to get the 135 or the 175. The difference between the two in money isn't all that much, about $150.00 appx. So it isn't a question of money that is giving me the problem in deciding which one to get.
Maybe someone can help me make the decision. I like the 135 because it runs on regular 120V current. So I can take it anywhere and use it anyplace there is regular house current, and it is cheaper. But it is the minimum MIG welder that Miller makes. The 175 needs a 220V outlet so I'll only be able to use it in one spot. The bigger unit can weld thicker metal, but not very much thicker. I'm also told that the bigger machine is what I'll want later on, it has a longer duty cycle, and it doesn't have to work as hard as the smaller unit. So which one should I go with for my first one; the less powerful, more portable one or the more expensive, more powerful and less portable one? First I think the small unit is just what I'll need at first and then I start thinking I'd be better off with the 175. What do I do, flip a coin?
Hawke