Basics & process choice
What is the difference between MIG and TIG welding?
Quick answer
MIG feeds a consumable wire automatically — fast, easy, the go-to for steel fabrication. TIG uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode while you hand-feed rod — slower and much harder, but delivers precise, beautiful welds on thin material, stainless and aluminium. MIG for speed, TIG for control.
Side by side
| MIG | TIG | |
|---|---|---|
| Learning curve | days | months |
| Speed | fast | slow |
| Thin/stainless/ally quality | good with skill | best |
| Filler feeding | automatic | hand-fed |
| Typical AU use | trailers, gates, fab shops | stainless benches, ally, food grade |
| Entry cost | $200–$800 | $1,200+ (AC/DC for ally) |
Which to learn first
Learn MIG first — the machine feeds the wire, so you only manage position and speed, and the feedback loop teaches you puddle reading. TIG then rewires everything: foot pedal, filler hand, torch hand. Most Australian fabricators are functionally bilingual, defaulting to MIG and switching to TIG when the job demands cosmetics or control.
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