Lincoln’s New Welder/Generators Are a Blast From the Past

Doesn’t it feel like these days, everything has so much technology in it? For instance, the cost to replace a car bumper can be more than triple what it once was. The reason: car bumpers are no longer just bumpers; they’re full of cameras and sensors with special calibration programs. For many people, the technological improvements are awesome. A lot of these new cars can basically park themselves. But for some people, the technology isn’t worth the cost. There’s a longing for the days when a bumper was just a bumper.

Lincoln understands that those same two types of people exist with welding. Their Ranger MPX engine-driven welding machines have offered huge technological benefits. But there are some welders out there who prefer a more straightforward machine. For those people, Lincoln has created a NEW line of welder/generators that go back to the foundations: the Ranger MP series.

In this article, we’ll cover all the key differences between the MPX and new MP line and help you decide which option works best for you.

Sandwiches and Steak

Comparing the MP vs. MPX versions of the Ranger welder/generators is like trying to compare an excellent sandwich vs. a delicious steak that’s been marinated and slow-cooked for 3 days. In a straight taste test, the steak is always going to win. In the same way, if we just compare features, the MPX series will always win. However, when we look at the full context of each machine, they both offer unique pros and cons.

The new MP Rangers are completely designed around simplicity. Instead of a large LCD screen, the MP machines have a single knob setup. If you’ve been welding for a couple of decades, the controls will feel very familiar. To get started, you simply set the CC/CV switch (depending on which process you’re using), then use the knob to set your desired amperage in CC or voltage in CV. If you’re MIG welding, you’ll set the wire speed directly on your feeder (neither the MPX nor MP machines have internal drive wheels). There is also an option to use a 6-pin remote control for extra mobility (on the 260MP and 330MP models).

And that’s it. With those few settings, you’re good to go. It’s all very simple and focused on letting you get to work as quickly as possible.

For some welders, that simplicity is all you need. This is especially true if you’ve been welding for decades and are used to determining the correct settings for the weld you’ll be performing. However, it is important to understand that the MP machines do not have Lincoln’s Ready.Set.Weld® technology, which comes with the MPX machines. If you’re using an MP machine, you’ll need to use the reference table to find your ideal settings. With the MPX, Lincoln guides you through the setup by asking you specific questions and then sets the ideal starting parameters for you.

Let’s Talk Price

We want to avoid presenting the MP as a lower-tier option compared to the MPX. For the most part, both machines are capable of similar power outputs, and both allow you to produce high-quality welds on the same types of materials. However, one of the biggest benefits of the MP series is the price.

Because the MP series forgoes a lot of the advanced tech of the MPX series, the price of the MP series can be thousands of dollars cheaper compared to the MPX line (depending on the specific machine).

It’s important to make one thing clear: The MP line isn’t the same as buying an old Ranger Welder/Generator. The new MP machines have many internal improvements which make them more efficient and easier to maintain compared to older Ranger models. With a new MP machine, you’ll also get Lincoln’s warranty.

Let’s Get Specific

We’ve already mentioned that the MP focuses on being straightforward and simple to use, forgoing some of the tech found on Lincoln’s MPX machines. It’s important to understand the specific differences:

A lot of the features above consist of quality-of-life improvements. If you use them, they can make certain aspects of welding much more convenient. However, when it comes to TIG welding and the 330MP vs. 330MPX models, there are a few benefits that actually impact the capabilities of the machine itself, not just the user.

On the 330 versions of both machines, the MPX option does have some additional benefits that go beyond quality-of-life features. Specifically, the 330MPX has a dedicated downhill pipe welding mode, pulsed mode for spool gun welding for aluminum, and Synergic spool gun control and spot-time settings (please note that the spool gun needs to be purchased separately). It also has adjustable hot start, arc force, and pinch settings.

Are You Planning on TIG Welding?

If you’re a TIG welder, there are some significant differences between the MP and the MPX lines. Both the Ranger 260MP and 330MP can TIG weld, but they do not have dedicated TIG modes like the MPX machines. This means the MP machines only have DC scratch-start TIG, while the MPX machines offer DC Touch-Start TIG.

Some versions of the 330MPX also include pulsed TIG, where the 330MP does not. If you mainly TIG weld, there is a strong case to be made that the MPX line is worth the extra costs.

The fact that Lincoln is offering multiple welder/generator options based on a balance of price and features is seriously awesome. The MP line definitely works best for a certain type of welder. Its focus on straightforward, simple controls at a lower price can be especially appealing for those experienced welders who don’t need a guided setup. If you’re more technologically inclined, however, you’ll be missing out on several quality-of-life features that may make the extra price of the MPX line worth it to you. No matter which option you decide to go with, you’ll find Welding Supplies from IOC is the best place to get all your welding machines and gear. We’ve got highly competitive pricing, the best customer service, and fast shipping. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the holidays, make sure you check out our full selection of engine-driven welders and other welding machines.