ESAB Welder Review

Have you come across an ESAB welder and wondered if this brand makes good machines? A company that started making welding electrodes in 1904 surely wouldn’t go wrong with its welding and cutting machines. In a nutshell, ESAB welders are great tools. 

However, if you are reading this review post, it is likely because you have come across the ESAB brand and are wondering if their machines, equipment, tools are worth investing in. In this post, we will be reviewing the best ESAB welding machines. These  reviews are to help you make suitable choices. Our reviews will cover all there is to know about the top ESAB welding machines. And unlike some other reviews, these reviews are from firsthand experience to make the reviews as helpful as possible.

Reasons to Buy an ESAB Welder

High Performance

Manufacturers sometimes focus on the bells and whistles when marketing their products, but the ultimate test of whether a welder is good or bad is its performance. How good a welding machine performs determines the number of buyers. The good news is that ESAB welders are made to perform at their best. That is why these welders are great for anyone. You can check out reviews from professionals, hobbyists, and amateurs. Most say this brand makes powerful machines.

Modern and Compact 

Look at ESAB welding machines. You will notice one thing: They all have compact and modern design. Hence, they are portable and user-friendly. Because ESAB welders are created not just for professionals but also for beginners, they are designed to be easy to use.

Durable

You can have the best performing machine out there, but if it breaks down after a year, it’s no better than the crappy ones on the market. Being in the industry for more than a century means ESAB is a reputable brand. It owes part of its reputation to the durability of its welders. Many of its models withstand long hours of work for years and still work like champs. In fact, ESAB welders are extolled for their robustness. 

Cost

Sometimes the price is the deal breaker. While you may not consider buying the cheapest welding equipment, you probably skip models whose prices are way beyond your budget. Popular brands in the welding industry boast performance and features but at a considerably high price. ESAB, on the other hand, is known for creating high-performance and feature-rich machines that are not as expensive as the competition. 

Of course, keep in mind that there are machines designed specifically for beginners and garage hobbyists, and these machines cost less than those designed for industrial purposes. 

Versatile

ESAB produces a lot of multi-process machines, so anyone looking for welders that can do MIG, stick, flux core, and TIG should check out MTS machines from ESAB. Contrary to what people think, multi-process welders are not just for small workshops. Even professionals working in big fabrication shops find these versatile tools useful. 

ESAB is also known for AC and DC units and has units that work with both. These are dual voltage machines, so they work anywhere. What’s the use of a portable device that you can carry anywhere but can’t be plugged into certain outlets?

Free Accessories

ESAB provides freebies that come as accessories or gifts. Common freebies are gloves and masks. These may not be much, but if you happen to buy a welder with free gloves, you won’t have to buy a pair of gloves yourself. That’s a bit of a steal, especially considering the competitive prices of these machines.  

Anyway, let’s go ahead and take a look at some of the notable ESAB welders.

ESAB Miniarc Rogue ES 180i Stick Package

The Miniarc Rogue is the little powerhouse that provides both portability and performance in a compact, sleek-looking machine. This machine delivers a smooth DC power suitable for a welding different types of materials including stainless, alloys, non-alloys, and cast iron.

It is equipped with a Micro-Processor that controls all the functions with supreme precision allowing you to produce a weld that would be hard to beat. This machine can be used with electrodes up to 5/32 in. or 4.0mm.

The Miniarc Rogue is just 18.2 pounds (8.25kg) and has sturdy handle and shoulder strap to allow you to easily take this welder from job to job. It produces a super stable arc performance which allows you to use long extension cables to reach those awkward or remote places.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight- 8.25 kg (18.2 lb)
• Dimensions (H x L x W)- 13.5 in.(343 mm) x 6 in. (153 mm) x 10.4 in. (264 mm)
• Voltage- 120 – 230 VAC +/- 15%

FEATURES

• Dual voltage input supply
• Light in weight
• Smooth and stable performance
• Generator Compliant
• Full 180 amp output when using 230 volt input power
• Large 50mm Dinse lead/ground receptacles
• Hot Start and Arc Force settings

ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic

This is another AC/DC multi-process MTS welder that has been getting great reviews. You can call it an all-process welder that is not only capable of MIG, stick, and TIG but also does flux core, DC TIG, DC pulse TIG, and AC TIG. While it’s able to run on AC or DC, it’s a dual voltage machine that can operate on 120 or 230 volts. 

One complaint about multi-process welders is that it’s hard to weld aluminum using these machines, but the Rebel EMP 205ic can weld on aluminum and stainless steel with its TIG stick. The high performance welding you get from this device means you get more than what you pay for. 

Similar to the ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic, the machine has the new smear smart MIG feature but features a Tweco ground clamp feature. This feature allows the machine to learn and adapt to your techniques and settings. Apart from having a Tweco MIG gun, the ESAB 205ic has spare Tweco MIG gun parts. This helps the machine to provide a stable arc which results in top-quality performance it also has a stable pilot arc or neatness and precision. The MIG gun is quite large as well. You can purchase the ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic directly from Amazon.

In addition, if the machine breaks down too soon, rest assured it has a 3-year warranty. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight-22 kg (49 pounds)
• Dimensions (H x L x W)- 16 in. (406 mm) x 23 in. (584 mm) x 9 in. (229 mm)
• Frequency- 50/60 Hz
• Voltage- 120/230 VOLTS
• Max Output (A)- 235 A
• Duty Cycle – VARIES

FEATURES

• All-process welding
• New smear smart MIG feature
• Trim adjustment
• Aluminum compatible (can weld aluminum)
• Five-handle roll cage industrial design
• 200mm spool gun
• TFT display feature
• Spot weld setting

ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic

Possibly the best ESAB welder, the Rebel EMP 215ic has the most advanced features. It’s a MIG/Stick/TIG machine with the best reviews. It weighs 40 pounds, quite light for a machine made of steel. You can plug it into 120 or 230 volts. You can consider this power beast an industrial-grade welder with its roll cage design. With its new smear smart MIG features, it learns your techniques and settings and provides a stable arc for top-notch performance.

The ESAB MXL 201 torch is its special feature. It also has a TIG torch. The TFT screen is a high quality display that shows your settings clearly. Due to the display quality, you can view parameters, notifications, as well as settings even if you are not too close to it. It also displays in multiple languages and so language is not a barrier. The TFT screen has a clearer view than others.

There are a lot of nice things to say about this multi-process welder aside from the two pairs of gloves that come with it for free. Most of the good reviews are about functionality, but many users also praise the 215ic’s durability.

This brand of tools features a euro connector and return cable kits. It has a spool gun. The spool is wide enough at 200 mm. The cable which powers the welding tools is 2m (6.5ft) long which makes it convenient to place your welding tools at a distance from your outlet.

In addition, these welding tools and equipment have a 3-year handle-to-handle warranty coupled with customer service should you need any help. The ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic is a great multi-process welder especially if you frequently need the MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight-18.2 kg (40 pounds)
• Dimensions (H x L x W)-16 in. (406 mm) x 23 in. (584 mm) x 9 in. (229 mm)
• Frequency- 50/60 Hz
• Voltage- 120/230 V
• Max Output (A)- 240 A
• Duty Cycle (MIG/ Stick/ TIG)- Differs per process and per voltage

FEATURES

• Multi-process welding
• Made of steel
• New smear smart MIG Metal inert gas wire welding feature
• Five-handle roll cage industrial design
• Welds light steel, stainless steel, aluminum
• TFT  screen display feature
• ESAB MXL 201 with a torch (MIG torch)

Due to the fact that it is a multi-process machine with dual voltage, it has different duty cycles.

ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic Duty cycles

	MIG/ GMAW	MIG/ GMAW	MIG/ GMAW/ FCAW	MMA /SMAW	MMA /SMAW	TIG/ GTAW
Duty Cycle	20%	25%	40%	25%	40%	30%
Output Current	130A	205 A	90A	180 A	130A	180 A
Output Voltage	120 V	24.3V	23.6 V	27.2V	15.2 V	17.2V
Input Voltage	120 V	230 V	120V	230 V	120 V	23O V

 

ESAB ET 301i AC/DC

The ESAB ET 301i is a multi-process welder that does TIG and stick welding. It’s also a dual voltage machine that can use 208-230 or 460 volts. This powerhouse stores up to 100 memory functions. Moreover, it’s a 13”x19”x7.25” machine that weighs only 35.9 lb. It’s hard to find anything else as powerful yet as light as this one. Another good thing about it is the way it controls its gas usage, and that’s one factor that makes it a cost-effective companion in your workshop.

With its Triptonic memory functions, it remembers up to 100 memory features. It works with both alternate and direct currents. The square wave output works to deliver superior performance.

ESAB machines do come with generous warranty periods, which entice buyers, and the ESAB ET 301i is no exception. This welder has a 3-year warranty, while its spare parts and the pulse function has a 6-month warranty. 

Part of ESAB’s commitment to making user-friendly machines involves multi-lingual functions. You can set the 301i, for instance, to any language. Moreover, the easy controls are worth mentioning. This is not a machine that takes forever to decipher. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight- 16.3 kg (35.9 lb)
• Dimensions (H x L x W)- 13 in. (326 mm) x 19 in. (483 mm) x 7.25 in. (185 mm)
• Voltage- 208-230/460V VOLTS
• Duty Cycle- VARIES

FEATURES

• Tiptronic – 100 memory functions
• Light in weight
• High frequency start
• Automatic gas management
• Automatic downslope
• Liftarc TIG start
• Pulse function

 

	TIG (GTAW) Welding	Stick (SMAW) Welding	TIG (GTAW) Welding	TIG (GTAW) Welding	TIG (GTAW) Welding	Stick (SMAW) Welding
Duty Cycle	100 %	100 %	30 %	60 %	60 %	100 %
Output Current	170 A	165 A	300 A	200 A	200A	150 A
Temperature	104 °F (40 °C)	104 °F (40 °C)	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

 

Reviews of the Type of Esab Rebel Welder Machines

Welding machines are of different types. Each type has a particular use. Before you set out to buy one, you need to know exactly which type you need to avoid so that you get the perfect machine to match your individual needs.

Tungsten Inert Gas or TIG welding

TIG welding is also known as tungsten inert gas welding or gas tungsten arc welding. This is a welding process for arcs that involves using a non-consumable tungsten electrode to produce the weld. The weld area is shielded from atmospheric contaminations such as oxidation by an inert shielding gas.

Filler metal is normally used in the process. TIG welding is generally used for metals that are of a thinner nature. Such metals are lighter and more flexible hence, welding them does not require as much heat. Unlike MIG welding, TIG produces few spatters and consequently presents less danger.

A machine for TIG welding is operated a little bit differently. It can usually take on a higher number of tasks.

Gas Metal Arc Welding or MIG Welding

Metal inert gas welding is also known as MIG welding. This type of welding occurs when an electric arc forms between a consumable metal inert gas wire and a workpiece metal. Consequently, the metal is heated and can then be joined to another metal. Due to the process, MIG TIG welding involves a lot of heat and spatter.

In MIG welding [also referred to as GMAW welding] the solid wire electrode is passed through a welding gun into the weld pool. MIG welding is sometimes referred to as wire welding in reference to the wire electrode.

Shielded Metal Arc Welding or Stick Welding

This is a type of welding that was started and created by the ESAB brand. It is a welding improvement that is a product of thinking out of the box. SMIG stands for smart MIG welding. SMIG welding is a type of feature in ESAB Rebel 215. SMIG welding is an improvement on MIG welding as it stabilizes the welding arc.

It is used for the most basic of takes and has an uncomplicated build. It is used for various welding jobs and can work on metals thick are thick and heavy. It involves using a consumable electrode that is covered in flux to lay a weld. The processes involved in this type of welding create extreme heat. Stick welding will definitely involve a lot of sparks, as well. Although stick welding is simpler than the other two, a stick welder still needs protection.

Plasma Welding

This welding process is carried out when an electrical beam that has been formed of electronically ionized heated gas cuts through a material by completing an electrical circuit. Through the use of a ground clamp, the circuit is completed. The plasma is created by squeezing gasses tightly together. The compressed gas is blown out through a nozzle designed for it.

TIPS FOR USING ESAB WELDING MACHINES

In order to ensure that your machine lives long enough to do what it was purchased for, it has to be used properly. There are safety tips you should observe during, and even after use. We have carried out reviews for the best tips. In this post, we have listed them out.

Clean Your Welding Machine Frequently- To ensure that your welder lasts long enough, you need to clean it. Often users overlook how important a simple dusting can be. Whether or not you are a frequent user, try as much as possible to ensure that your welder is cleaned frequently.

You should also ensure your gun nozzle is clean. The gun nozzle directs the weld. Often particles and spatter can fill and block your gun nozzle. Before and after each use, check to ensure your gun nozzle is free of dirt. When you are done with cleaning the gun nozzle, review the processes carried out with it to ensure that the gun nozzle is not damage.

Do Not Leave it Uncovered- When your welder is not in use do not leave it uncovered. Place a cloth over it to protect it from dust and rust. If you do not place a protective cover, you are leaving your welding machine at the mercy of the elements.

Do Not Overuse Your Machine- Your machine’s duty cycle flow is not to be overlooked. Do not use it past the recommended usage period. try as much as possible to use your machine with only steady and strong currents that will not damage your welding machine. A lot of welders have learned the importance of steady current the hard way. For your machine to give out superb output, it must receive quality input as well. If your machine is unusually hot, switch it off instantly. Learn to use your machine as it should be used.

Read The Manual- No matter how much of a pro you are, no two machines are the same. The ease of flow you have with one MIG welder may differ from the flow you experience with the next. Read the user manual for safety purposes. You can post any questions in the comments.

The Bottom Line

You can’t go wrong with any of the ESAB welders. Regardless of your experience or preferences, there’s a fitting machine out there from ESAB. All of their machines are designed to be efficient and powerful. Make sure you prepare a list of features you need when shopping for welders.

We love ESAB welders for many reasons, especially for the welding process. These welding machines are perfect for welders with various welding experiences. Their machines are energy-efficient and high-performing. The key to picking out a model you will love is listing out the main features you need prior to deciding. Your list will serve as a guide and will ultimately help you make a great choice. Do not forget that while performing any welding jobs, you should ensure you protect yourself as well as the machines.

Lastly, it is much safer to make a purchase from Amazon as you are guaranteed support. Amazon has provided several means to contact them further making it easier to contact them if anything goes wrong. They do a great job of ensuring quality and I hope this Esab welder review will be of help in your search for the product.

More reading on please visit our plasma cutter reviews.