powertig 225lx

[performance]

I would say the 225LX is the best value that we have when you consider price and function. In terms of regular function, you gain nothing. Those panel features don't mean a thing unless you are using the torch switch...but even then most of the control functions are there, just missing a programmable start/end amps. The AC balance issue does give marginal improvement, but its to the point of being impractical. Can't do much at 90% EP. The pulse frequency is sufficient to work the puddle manually. The benefit of having 500 hz pulse frequency is mostly maximized only with automatic welding equipment. As for the spot timer, I rarely have found anyone who uses it...though I have used it myself. I know its human nature to always want the next nicest thing available...but objectively, from a price/feature/performance standpoint the 225 lx is probably the best deal we have.

[revkev6]

I would say the 225LX is the best value that we have when you consider price and function. In terms of regular function, you gain nothing. Those panel features don't mean a thing unless you are using the torch switch...but even then most of the control functions are there, just missing a programmable start/end amps. The AC balance issue does give marginal improvement, but its to the point of being impractical. Can't do much at 90% EP. The pulse frequency is sufficient to work the puddle manually. The benefit of having 500 hz pulse frequency is mostly maximized only with automatic welding equipment. As for the spot timer, I rarely have found anyone who uses it...though I have used it myself. I know its human nature to always want the next nicest thing available...but objectively, from a price/feature/performance standpoint the 225 lx is probably the best deal we have.

which given the money I had available (even that was a stretch for me) is why I got the 225lx. to be honest, I don't even need a tig but my father and brother both have decent mig welders if I needed to use one. I figured spending a little extra on a tig would benefit all of us. After getting the machine though, I have found the ability to control the heat so finitely to be the best part of having the machine. I've been able to weld up some pinholes in sheetmetal that I would NEVER consider doing with a mig. My biggest problem has been that I tend to rush through my projects. I don't take the time to prep, I try run the bead to fast, I don't wait to cool etc.

as for the frequency and pulse width, I watched the videos from weldingtipsandtricks.com and saw the benefits that could be had by changing them in certain situations. How much would you use those features in real life?? probably not often at all but I'm sure if I knew that certain feature I didn't spend a little extra for would make my life easier ...... well that always sucks lol

[everlastsupport]

I've used the LX line (as far back as when we had an 250LX). A few years. I use the 250EX now, have for about 6 months. Either unit will get the job done for me. But the 250EX is the most popular for sure.

If you want to use 4T and get that little extra, the EX is good. But the LX is the best unit, for me, for the price as well. The extra 25 amps (helps on aluminum/duty cycle), but it is $200 more I believe. It does have a few extra features, but nothing most can not live without for the price.

[revkev6]

I do agree with you guys on the value of the 225lx, I did buy one didn't I lol. I'm just saying if I had the extra couple hundred I definitely would have gone for the 250ex!

[dgeese]

I've had my 225lx for almost a year now and absolutely love it! I use it to build my Starduster Too (experimental biplane). The current control on thin wall 4130 is very impressive. I've had certified welders and welding instructors use this machine and all claim it's better than the higher priced blue and red machines.

[everlastsupport]

The 225LX is a fantastic product (probably used one for 4 years total). It gets over looked with all the video of the 250EX. I still have a 225LX myself.

I know when we run out of 250EX unit, I mention the 225LX, a couple guy bite and call back to talk about how happy they are with them. Same electronics inside as well, just a couple feature not enabled and a little less power.

[revkev6]

The 225LX is a fantastic product (probably used one for 4 years total). It gets over looked with all the video of the 250EX. I still have a 225LX myself.

I know when we run out of 250EX unit, I mention the 225LX, a couple guy bite and call back to talk about how happy they are with them. Same electronics inside as well, just a couple feature not enabled and a little less power.

I do have to agree with this statement!

as for the guys who do 8 hours a day of sheetmetal spot welding, you want a spot welding machine not a tig welder. My uncle just bought one (no idea on make/model) for his automotive resto shop. He got tired of drilling, welding and grinding the 90% panel replacement he had to do on a 65 mustang.

I am completely satisfied with my 225lx! just that case of "want" vs "need"