I have this Primeweld mts200 sitting right on top of my Miller Multimatic 220 AC/DC Multi process machine to save a bit of floor space in my small shop.
But it does bring up a conversation as to which machine is a better value.
My answer is basically this:
they are like apples and oranges.
The the miller does AC DC TIG with high frequency start as well as Stick, MIG, and Flux core welding.
The primeweld mts200 does MIG, Flux core, lift arc TIG, and Stick.
My miller multimatic 220 is around $4200 now, while the primeweld sitting on top of it is $749.
Like I said, this is an apples and oranges comparison because the Miller Multimatic 220 AC/DC can do AC DC tig with high frequency arc start as well as MIG and Stick.
The Miller machine that is closest in features is probably the multimatic 215 and while it is considerable less than the miller 220 AC DC welder, the multimatic 215 comes in around $2200 but does not include a TIG torch at that price.
The primeweld MTS200 at $749 comes with a CK 17 style TIG torch with a valve.
I love miller products and I think there is something to be said for buying the best quality machine you can afford.
But there are definitely other more affordable options to get started.
So what is a welding machine that does MIG, Flux Core, Stick, and lift arc tig good for?
I like to think of it as primarily a MIG welder....that can also do lift arc TIG and Stick.
If you do any portable welding, having lift arc TIG and Stick capability can really come in handy. You never know all the wrinkles that come up on a portable welding job.
For example, you might be installing handrails using MIG when the wind kicks up before you finish the last few welds. Just grabbing some 7018 3/32" rods to finish up could be the difference between finishing the job, or coming back the next day.
Lift arc TIG can be used for pipe welding or sanitary stainless tubing.
You get these added capabilities at a very affordable price tag with the primeweld mts200