Multi-process Welder VS Single Process Welder (Which One You Should Choose ?)

Are you stuck between getting a multi-process welder vs. a single-process welder?

Well, it can be a bit difficult choosing one because of the different potentiality each comes up with. On the surface, a multi-process welder seems to be the choice but is it the way to go? Is it really worth buying a multi process welder or single process? Is multi-process welder cheaper than single process welder?

Let’s find that out through a little bit of comparison between the two welder types. You will know which one suits your needs the most.

So, here it goes–

Topics Covered

Multi-Process Welder & Single Process Welder (What Are They)

Don’t know what these welders are? Then let’s check them out first, then we will move into more in-depth stuff.

What Is A Multi-Process Welder

A multi-process welder is a single welding machine that can perform multiple types of welding processes. You can do TIG and MIG welding, TIG, MIG, and Stick welding on one machine. Some multi-process welders can even do all kinds of welding processes in a single machine from Tig, Mig, flux core, stick welding to metal cutting Plasma cutter. All you have to do is switch between modes to get your desired welding type by pressing a switch on the welder.

What Is A Single Process Welder

By now, you probably understand what a single process welder is. It’s a single machine that is dedicated to only one type of welding process. This means you can’t do TIG welding if you have a single process MIG welder. The option here for you is limited in terms of welding processes.

Now, as you can see, the difference here is obvious between the two welders. That’s not the problem at all. The problem arises when you try to consider which one to buy.

Because in some cases, single-process welders are advantageous, and in some cases, the multi-process welders have the upper hand. That’s what we are going to discuss with you here to get an idea of which one is better for what purpose.

When you should use Multi-Process welder vs. Single Process Welder

This is the real deal here. When to use what makes all the difference in which one you should get for your needs meet. Here, I will take you through a little overview.

So, in the following cases, a multi-process welder is much more preferable to a single-process welder.

Whenever you have different types of metals to work with, you should use a multi-process welder. The reason is different metal types react differently with certain welding types. For example, some material gets better results from a TIG welder, and some get better results from MIG welders. So, when working with different metal types, it’s better to have a multi-process welder. This opens up the option to get the best results for all metal types.
When you are working with different thicknesses of metal. For example, TIG welding works much better than MIG welding for thinner sheets of metal. Conversely, MIG works better for thicker materials. So, having a multi-process welder with MIG and TIG welding gives you the option to work with different thicknesses.

Each welding process has its welding joints or results. When your project needs different welding joints, a multi-process welder makes more sense than a single-process welder.
If you have to use your welder both indoor and outdoor, then a multi-process welder is a better choice. Because you can’t do all kinds of welding outdoors, so, when you are outside, you can switch the welding process that you can do outside.

Now, aside from these circumstances, you can use a single-process welder as well. A multi-process welder works better only for the above-mentioned scenarios.

When You should use Single Process Welder VS Multi-Process Welder

Until now, I told you when you should be using a multi-process welder over a single-process welder. Now, it’s time to take you through when it’s not preferable to go for a multi-process welder.

If you don’t use multiple welding processes regularly, then a multi-process welder isn’t worth it because a single-process welder gives you better quality, performance, and power for your welding.
Also, when you only work on one material, one thickness, and one welding joint at a time, a single process welder is a better choice. The overall result is way better than a multi-process welder.
If you are set to use welder for smaller projects like home use, or simple car brazing multi process welder is better option. For industrial works or bigger projects you should use single process welder as single process welder provides more strength and ductility in welding which you need in big projects.

Differences Between Multi and Single Process Welder

Difference between single process and multi process welder

Here are some factors that create the difference between these two types of welders-

Welding purpose, Features & Functionality

The welding purpose of a multi-process welder is to use different materials and thicknesses in a single project. While the single process gives you quality welding with great power and accuracy. Also, single-process welders are much more professional, while multi-process welders are better for DIYs.

Welding Strength & Capacity

In terms of welding strength and capacity, single-process welders have the upper hand over multi-process welders. As they are focused on one particular type, all the energy is utilized to its full potential resulting in a better weld and finishing more worth than multi-process.

Frequency & Control

Multi-process welders are a better option for beginners due to their good frequency and great control. While the single process is better for professionals as they require some expertise and experience.

Weight and Usability

Of course, multi-process welders are better in this factor. The usability is obvious; you can get different welding types in a single machine. As for the weight, they are usually lightweight and convenient to use compared to single-process welders.

Current & Electricity Efficiency

On a single process welder, you get a single current output. It’s either DC or AC. For a multi-process welder, you get both AC and DC functionality. So, single process is more electricity efficient than multi.

Shielded Gas

This factor doesn’t have an impact on the multi-process welder or single-process welder. It would help if you still had different types of gases for different types of welding processes. You can’t do all TIG welding with the same shielding gas you use for MIG welding, even with the multi-process features.

Safety

Multi-process welders tend to be much safer than Single process welders because of their ease of usage. You don’t need to go through a lot to set them up or do the work.

Price

From the perspective of price multi-process welders worth it. Multi-process welder offers different types of welding features within a single machine and costs comparatively less than most of the single process welders. Some multi-process comes up with plasma cutter also saving money for seasonal welders though there are controversies about their functionality.

Single process welder on the other hand costs more in the sense of having room for going in different welding processes. You will need to buy more than one welder for different need and also single process welders because of their quality and functionality costs more that multi-process sometimes.

Conclusion

All in all, it cannot be very clear to choose between a multi-process welders vs. a single-process welder. But it’s not difficult when you know what you want. In my opinion, if you are getting a welder for DIY (do it yourself) projects, then multi-process welders are great options for you. But if you want to go professional, then single-process welders are better choices.