Millermatic 211, 212 or 252

[56FordGuy]

I just went through this exact decision process.

I don't do any aluminum welding, so I can't add anything to the spool gun discussion. But long story short, you can always turn a bigger machine down. You can't add on to a smaller one.

If you think you need a 252, then you probably do. When I was shopping, the 252 was generally $500-600 more than the 212. In my opinion, it's money well spent. The 211 and 212 aren't even in the same class, in my opinion. The 211 is a great hobby machine, where the 212 is twice the capability and only a few hundred dollars more. The 252 is a lot more machine than the 212, for only slightly more money.

 

[ericher69]

Leaning heavily towards the 252.


If not then the 211.

212 out of the running.

 

[ovrszd]

I traded my Miller 180 for a 250 last year. After a year's use I feel a little guilty. Traded the guy even up. Boy he took a bath.... But he wanted a smaller welder and I wanted a bigger one so I guess we're both happy. My Son's both have smaller Miller and Hobart welders. They bring their heavier stuff to my shop and use the 250. She's a beast and I love it.

 

[BethelHntr]

The 252 is for sure the machine I wanted but the money wasn't there, The 211 works quite well for me being a home hobbyist and welds awesome with the .035 solid with 75-25 hooked up to a dedicated 40A service.

Good luck with which ever you choose. Larry

 

[millerweld]

miller 252. I work for a welding supply company in central N.Y.. we sell a lot of 180 and 252. The 252 is just a better welder. save a few extra $ and go for it. A old timer told me once. Buy a big welder because you can always turn it down. The 252 will be the last welder you will need to buy!!!!!

 

[ericher69]

Well no 252 yet but I did sell my Lincoln SP170-T yesterday $500 extra towards the new welder purchase...

Will probably order this week as I am now down to stick only (which I surprisingly don't mind)

Fired up the ol' gal today just to run a few beads with 7014 and 6010...still got it! and I was surprised at how well the Sparkler welds. Maybe Ill keep it after all as I know have enough for the new welder.

 

[Scooby074]

Well no 252 yet but I did sell my Lincoln SP170-T yesterday $500 extra towards the new welder purchase...

Will probably order this week as I am now down to stick only (which I surprisingly don't mind)

Fired up the ol' gal today just to run a few beads with 7014 and 6010...still got it! and I was surprised at how well the Sparkler welds. Maybe Ill keep it after all as I know have enough for the new welder.

No harm in keeping the old stick around for what you might get out of it.

 

[mikehaugen]

The advantage I see to the 211 is the ability to run it on 120v if needed. I would like to get one because it could be somewhat portable. If I do, I still have the old idealarc tig/stick welder at home for bigger stuff, or if I need to tig weld. On 3/16 or larger, I don't mind stick welding.

 

[Bday]

Did you decide on a unit yet? I haven't been able to keep up with the forum recently.

 

[ericher69]

Tried ordering the 252 today but the guy that quoted me the price was with another customer.

Should call me back in the am.

$2215.95+Tax Canadian funds.

I will meet the truck next week about 40km from my city as the LWS I am buying from is about 100km away.