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MIG vs TIG vs Stick Welding
Full breakdown: MIG or TIG for sheet metal.
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Pick a process for your job
Thickness ranges on one machine
| Process | Steel | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|
| MIG (GMAW) | 24 ga.–3/8 in. | 18 ga.–3/8 in. |
| TIG (DC) | 24 ga.–1/4 in. | not listed |
| Stick (SMAW) | 16 ga.–3/8 in. | not listed |
Source: Miller Multimatic 215 spec sheet (DC/12.59), weld thickness. Product page: Multimatic 215.
What Lincoln says about each process
| Process | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| MIG | Least operator skill; welds thinner material than stick | Equipment is more complex, more costly and traditionally less portable |
| Stick | Least equipment, easy to set up or move; usually the least expensive | More operator skill; stops to change rods and chip slag |
| TIG | High-quality welds on almost any weldable metal; very low amperage for thin sheet | Slowest deposition rate; torch, filler and foot pedal take coordination |
Source: Lincoln Electric, Choosing a Welding Power Source.
How to choose
Start with the metal. If it is under 16 gauge, the stick range on this machine does not reach it, so MIG or TIG it is. For thin sheet, see MIG or TIG for sheet metal. If you are new, Lincoln's point about skill matters most: MIG is the easiest start. See the best beginner welder and what size welder for a home garage.
If you carry the machine to the work, Lincoln's point about equipment matters: stick needs the least of it. See how to choose a stick welder, and for the basics behind all three, what arc welding is.
FAQ
Which process is easiest to learn?
Lincoln Electric says MIG (GMAW) requires the least operator skill, because the machine feeds the wire. It says TIG and stick both take more operator skill.
Which welds the thinnest metal?
On the Multimatic 215 spec sheet, MIG and TIG both start at 24 gauge steel and stick starts at 16 gauge. Lincoln Electric adds that TIG can be controlled at very low amperages, which suits thin sheet.
Which is most portable?
Lincoln Electric says stick takes the least equipment, which makes it easy to set up or move, and that MIG equipment is traditionally less portable.
Can one machine do all three?
Yes. The Multimatic 215 is one Miller machine that runs MIG, flux-cored, DC TIG and stick, per the spec sheet.
Compiled with AI assistance from the sources below. Spot an error? Email [email protected].
Sources
- Miller Electric, Multimatic 215 spec sheet, index DC/12.59. https://contenthub.itwwelding.com/api/public/content/miller-electric-mfg-llc/spec-sheet/PIM/5e3805-dc12-59.pdf. Accessed Oct 27, 2026.
- Miller Electric, Multimatic 215 product page. https://www.millerwelds.com/equipment/welders/multiprocess/multimatic-215-multiprocess-welder-m30090.
- Lincoln Electric, Choosing a Welding Power Source. https://www.lincolnelectric.com/en/Welding-and-Cutting-Resource-Center/Welding-How-Tos/Choosing-a-Welding-Power-Source. Accessed Oct 27, 2026.