TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder Review

Introduction

The TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder is a compact, portable, and versatile welding machine designed for both beginners and experienced welders. With its ability to handle 6013 and 7018 electrodes, this welder is suitable for mild steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and hard surfacing. It operates on a standard 110V household voltage, making it an excellent choice for home projects, small businesses, and on-the-go repairs.

In this review, we’ll dive deep into the features, performance, and real-world usability of the TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder. We’ll also compare it to other models in its price range and provide a detailed analysis to help you decide if this welder is the right fit for your needs.

Check Price on Amazon

Tech Specs

Feature	TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder
Processes	Stick, Lift TIG (TIG torch not included)
Current Output	0-135A
Input Voltage	110V
Duty Cycle	60%
Max Welding Thickness	1/8 inch (3.5mm) @ 110V
Electrodes Supported	6011, 6013, 7018, 6010 (DCEN/DCEP)
Display	Digital
Weight	6.97 lbs
Portability	Adjustable shoulder strap included
Included Accessories	Power adapter cord, work clamp, electrode holder, shoulder strap

Overview

Performance

The TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder is designed for light to medium welding tasks. It performs exceptionally well with 6013 and 7018 electrodes, making it ideal for welding mild steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. The machine features built-in functions like anti-stick, arc force, and hot start, which enhance its usability, especially for beginners.

• Hot Start: Ensures easy and fast arc initiation, reducing the likelihood of defects at the start of the weld.
• Anti-Stick: Prevents the electrode from sticking to the workpiece, which is a common issue for novice welders.
• Arc Force: Provides a smooth and stable arc, even with cellulose electrodes.

Users have reported that the welder handles 6013 rods with ease, while 6011 rods can be slightly finicky to start but perform well once the arc is established. The machine struggles with 6010 electrodes, which require higher arc voltage, but it compensates by performing well with 6011 rods, which offer similar characteristics.

Design and Build Quality

The TOOLIOM 135A is built with durability in mind. Despite its compact size, it is robust enough to withstand regular use. The bright yellow casing not only makes it visually appealing but also ensures high visibility in a workshop or job site.

The welder’s portability is one of its standout features. Weighing just under 7 pounds and equipped with an adjustable shoulder strap, it’s easy to carry between job sites. This makes it an excellent choice for contractors or DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable welding machine on the go.

Check Price on Amazon

Usability

The TOOLIOM 135A is incredibly user-friendly, making it a great option for beginners. The digital display allows users to monitor the welding current in real-time, ensuring precise control over the welding process. The machine operates on a standard 110V household voltage, so there’s no need for special wiring or outlets.

However, users should note that the machine’s performance is limited when running on 110V. While it can handle 3/32” rods with ease, 1/8” rods may require more effort, especially with 7018 electrodes. For optimal performance, a 220V setup is recommended, though this may not be feasible for all users.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Affordable: Offers excellent value for its price.
• Portable: Lightweight and easy to transport.
• User-Friendly: Ideal for beginners with features like anti-stick and hot start.
• Versatile: Can handle Stick and Lift TIG welding.
• Durable: Built to withstand regular use.

Cons

• Limited Power: Struggles with thicker materials and 6010 electrodes.
• 110V Limitation: Performance is better on 220V, but the machine is primarily designed for 110V.
• Accessories: The TIG torch is not included, requiring an additional purchase.

What to Know Before Buying

Before purchasing the TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder, consider the following:

• Intended Use: This welder is best suited for light to medium welding tasks. If you need to weld thicker materials or use 6010 electrodes frequently, you may need a more powerful machine.
• Power Supply: While the welder operates on 110V, its performance is significantly better on 220V. Ensure you have the appropriate power supply for your needs.
• Accessories: The TIG torch is not included, so factor in the additional cost if you plan to use the Lift TIG function.

Check Price on Amazon

Best Features

• Digital Display: Provides real-time monitoring of welding current.
• Portability: Lightweight design with an adjustable shoulder strap.
• Built-In Functions: Hot start, anti-stick, and arc force enhance usability.
• Versatility: Supports both Stick and Lift TIG welding.
• Durability: Robust construction ensures long-lasting performance.

Alternatives in This Range

Feature	TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder	Eastwood Elite 200 Digital TIG Welder	Everlast PowerTIG 210EXT
Processes	Stick, Lift TIG	TIG, Stick	TIG, Stick
Current Output	0-135A	5-200A	5-210A
Input Voltage	110V	120V/240V	120V/240V
Duty Cycle	60%	20% at 200A	60% at 210A
Weight	6.97 lbs	50 lbs	62 lbs
Price	$150-$200	$700-$800	$1,200-$1,500

Final Thoughts

The TOOLIOM 135A Mini Stick Welder is an excellent choice for beginners and hobbyists who need a portable, affordable, and user-friendly welding machine. Its compact design, built-in features, and versatility make it a standout option in its price range.

However, it does have limitations, particularly when it comes to handling thicker materials and 6010 electrodes. If you’re a professional welder or frequently work with demanding projects, you may want to consider a more powerful machine like the Everlast PowerTIG 210EXT.

For its price, the TOOLIOM 135A offers exceptional value and is a reliable tool for light welding tasks, home repairs, and small projects. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly welder that delivers solid performance, this machine is worth considering.