Hobart 190 Vs 210 MIG Welders: A Detailed Comparison
This article is going to make a comparison between two well-known and popular MIG welders: Hobart 190 vs 210. It can be challenging to choose the right one because they have almost the same features.
We know that Hobart welding machines are affordable, versatile, and portable devices.
Before going into detail, we should consider that even though several years have passed since their production, these welders can still do everything you would expect from the latest equipment at a lower price.
The technical data discussed on this comparison page were taken from the Hobart Welders user manuals.
Hobart 190 Vs 210: The Comparison
Suppose you are looking to invest in the welding business or related DIY activity. In that case, you should consider buying a MIG welder because it is designed to weld stainless steel, carbon steel, and metals that are non-ferrous, like aluminum.
MIG welders can do different tasks, which involve joining, such as car repairs or fixing broken iron gates. Let’s dive now into our full comparison review:
Hobart 500554 190 MIG Welder 230V
Hobart 500533 210 MIG Welder 110V/230V
To clear up the matter, we will make the comparison relying on the following points:
- Power
- Metal Thickness Capacity
- Duty Cycle
- Thermal Overload Protection
- Portability
- Warranty
1. Power
Before you buy any machine, it is crucial to know the input voltage required to run that particular machine.
Of course, it is not advisable to invest a lot of money purchasing a product, which is not compatible with any of your generators or the standard household outlet.
Hobart 190
Hobart 190 only operates on the power of 230V.
Then, if you live in a home with a 115V power outlet, you will need a generator. In this regard, keep in mind that the Hobart Handler 190 can only be powered by generators that provide at least 7,000 Watt.
The amperage output of the Hobart 190 machine is wide, with a range between 25A and 190A.
Hobart 210 MPV
On the contrary, the Hobart 210 MPV works with both 115V and 230V main voltages (MVP – Multi-Voltage Plug dual-input).
The amperage output is between 25A and 140A on 115V and between 25A and 210A when working on 230V.
The Hobart 210 offers better performance, being able to weld thinner materials when powered at 115V. But it is possible to operate with 230V, suitable for heavy-duty applications, for example, thicker materials.
Verdict
Thus, the Hobart 210 machine, considered among the best 220V welding machines, is more versatile, working well on both 115V and 230V outlets.
At the same time, model 190 only operates on 230V outlets.
However, it should be noted that the Hobart 190 is still very versatile in terms of amperage range. Although limited to the 230V power supply, it can also weld thin and relatively thick metals.
2. Metal Thickness Capacity
When we talk about the ability to weld the maximum thickness, we always refer to a single pass. All welders, however, can weld thicker materials with multiple passes.
The thicknesses that the welding machine can join in a single pass are essential factors when evaluating the purchase of a welder. This assessment should be made based on the materials you work with.
Attention: when choosing the device that best suits your needs, you must evaluate the maximum and minimum thickness of the metals and materials we will weld.
Regarding the minimum thickness, if we weld two thin metal plates such as auto body panels, we need to know that our welder will not open holes due to excessive power.
Hobart 190
The Hobart 190 welding range is between 24-gauge (0.6 mm) and 5/16 inch (8.0 mm) in a single pass when working with steel.
As mentioned above, to avoid holes when joining thinner panels, always know that the 190 model requires particular attention in adjusting to the low setting amperage.
Hobart 210 MPV
The welding range of the Hobart 210 machine is between 24-gauge (0.6 mm) sheets and 3/8 inch (9.6 mm) thick metals.
Thanks to its versatility, the 210 can work with 115V making it more suitable for working with thinner metals. Moreover, its superior output amperage (more details below) allows to weld thicker metals.
Verdict
As we can see, the two Hobart units have almost the same range of welding thicknesses. Still, the 210 model allows for greater adaptation when welding both thin and thicker metals.
The values differ if you work with different metals. The appropriate settings for stainless Steel or Aluminum can be found in the user manuals.
3. Duty Cycle
The duty cycle, expressed as a percentage, refers to the amount of time a welder machine can operate before it is necessary to pause it, avoiding overheating.
Hobart 190
The Hobart 190 has a 30% duty cycle at 130A, which means it can weld for 3 minutes and rest for 7 minutes.
Hobart 210 MPV
The 210 model works at 20% at 90A when plugged on 115V and 30% at 150A on 230V.
For instance, when running on 115V, Hobart 210 can run for two minutes before it requires 8 minutes to rest.
When running on 230V, it can work for 3 minutes before it requires 7 minutes to rest.
Verdict
Comparing the duty cycles of Hobart 190 and 210, you get a small difference between the two. When operating on 230V, both units have a 30% duty cycle, with substantially equal performance.
4. Thermal Overload Protection
If you do not comply with the times indicated by the duty cycle, you may run into burns and overheating.
For this reason, both Hobart 190 and 210 have thermal overload protection that helps to turn off the welding machine automatically.
When they reach their peak duty cycle, the moment the device cools, you can get back to your work without causing any damage to the machine’s internal components.
5. Portability
The portability of a welding machine depends on size and weight. Naturally, a lightweight device will be less powerful than a heavy one.
The 190 model weighs around 68 pounds, while the 210 weighs 79 lb. Although the last one is slightly heavier, we can include both units in the “portable” category.
If your job involves frequent moving from one site to another, consider investing in the Hobart cart (sold separately), so you can move around quickly.
In conclusion, it’s easy to take these two machines from one site to another because both are lightweight.
6. Warranty
A three-year warranty backs both the 190 and the 210; thus, customers can return it for service and maintenance.
Hobart 210 vs 190: Applications
Hobart 190
- Auto body
- Metal art
- Home maintenance/repair
- DIY hobbiest
Hobart 210 MPV
- Auto body
- Metal art
- Home maintenance/repair
- DIY hobbiest
- Light fabbrication
- Boat/marine
What Do Online Reviews Of Hobart 190 and 210 Say?
These are two super functional and well-known welding machines, also appreciated by professional welders.
The automatic resetting of thermal overload helps protect equipment integrity, which also guarantees safe performance.
Hobart Handler 210 and 190 have a five-star rating in terms of portability. You can easily move them from one place to another, even without a cart.
The price:
Hobart 210 costs a little more, but both welders are offered at a lower price than the competition, with the same performance quality. Compared to other welding machines in the market, the price is reasonable.
You can read our full reviews:
FAQs
Who Builds Hobart Welders?
Illinois Tools Works (ITW) manufactures Hobart 190 and Hobart 210 welding machines.
What is the most significant difference between Hobart 190 and Hobart 210?
Hobart 210 welding usually comes with two plugs for 115V power and the other for 220V power. On the other hand, the Hobart 190 welding machine only comes with one socket for 230V power.
What jobs are Hobart 210 and Hobart 190 suitable for?
These welding machines are suitable for joining different metals together. They are also ideal for home repairs and automotive works.
Does Hobart 210 come with a spool gun?
No, it does not provide that. You need to purchase them separately.
Does Hobart 190 machine come with a spool gun?
It depends on the type of package you order. Other packages only come with a MIG gun, while the other comes with both a MIG gun and a spool gun.
Do I require a shielding gas?
If you are using Hobart 210, you can weld metal without gas, provided you are using Hobart Flux wire. Hobart 190 requires shielding gas. It is important to note that both machines require shielding gas because it prevents the molten weld pool from being exposed to oxygen and hydrogen available in the atmosphere.
Are the two machines suitable for beginners?
Yes, they can perform well but with only a few hiccups.
What is the most safety equipment required?
The following are the safety equipment required when welding:
- Welding helmet. It is used to shield your face and neck from radiations and sparks.
- Gloves. They protect your hand, which is exposed to radiation and intense heat.
- Protective jackets. Jackets offer resistance from flames in medium-duty and heavy-duty applications.
- Aprons. They offer protection to your chest and legs.
- Respirators. Respirators prevent a medley of fumes released by melting metals from entering your lungs.
- Boots. They offer additional protection to your foot. They protect your foot against any heavy objects.
Conclusion
Hobart Welders is a brand that is known for the production of quality welding equipment in the industry.
The moment you decide to buy a welding machine, going for Hobart welders is a wise choice because it will give you one of the best services in the market.
However, it is essential to buy a welding machine that you specifically require.
Suppose you are undecided between the two units for a slightly higher price. In that case, the 210 offers greater versatility in both thin and thicker metal welding because the Hobart 210 can work with either 115V or 220V.
