Hobart vs. Miller/Lincoln generator welders

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Every time I go into Tractor Supply, I see these big, 3-foot-long Hobart generator welders like the Champion Elite, but I don't think I've EVER seen one outside the store.  I'm just curious, how do these compare to similar machines we see every day, e.g. Miller Bobcat?Last edited by Ruark; 04-08-2022 at 11:44 PM.-Ruark"Become one with the puddle, grasshopper" - Welding InstructorLincoln 3200HDHobart Stickmate LX235TWECO Fabricator 211i
Reply:All three brands are great.Pick your color Dave

Originally Posted by Ruark

Every time I go into Tractor Supply, I see these big, 3-foot-long Hobart generator welders like the Champion Elite, but I don't think I've EVER seen one outside the store.  I'm just curious, how do these compare to similar machines we see every day, e.g. Miller Bobcat?
Reply:I agree with Dave. Pick a color. I think it really comes down to specific features you want. That and more importantly - brand bias. Frankly, I would be more inclined to buy a Lincoln than a Miller or a Hobart - the sole reason is that my first welder was a Lincoln.
Reply:

Originally Posted by Ruark

Every time I go into Tractor Supply, I see these big, 3-foot-long Hobart generator welders like the Champion Elite, but I don't think I've EVER seen one outside the store.  I'm just curious, how do these compare to similar machines we see every day, e.g. Miller Bobcat?
Reply:I use price for witch one to buy.Dave

Originally Posted by 52 Ford

I agree with Dave. Pick a color. I think it really comes down to specific features you want. That and more importantly - brand bias. Frankly, I would be more inclined to buy a Lincoln than a Miller or a Hobart - the sole reason is that my first welder was a Lincoln.
Reply:Tractor Supply, Home Depot,lowes and other big box stores sell the Hobarts and probably good for light duty and occasional welding.  Down here in Florida 95% of service trucks have a Miller other 5 is a Lincoln.  Miller customer service is top notch!  I have been using Millers (Trail Blazer 301, Big Blue 400D and Pipe Pro 400 Cat) since 2003.  Only once did the BB400 go down and that was due to a 1 dollar fuse and Miller talked me thru it over the phone.  Plus if you need to sell it Miller or Lincoln will be easy.We've done so much, for so long, with so little. Were now qualified to do anything with nothing !
Reply:Bought my Hobart at TS for $2900.(3 or 4 years ago)Bobcat at my LWS was going for ~$4500.My Hobart has no AC or CV capabilities as Bobcat does.Miller a/c-d/c Thunderbolt XLMillermatic 180 Purox O/ASmith Littletorch O/AHobart Champion Elite