ESAB 205ic vs 215ic (Pros & Cons, Difference)

ESAB is a well-known company with many innovative welders for different industries. And you can find its Rebel series quite intriguing.

Its 205ic EMP and 215ic EMP are popular among professional welders. That’s where a distinctive comparison between the two comes to light.

And we would like to answer your queries related to ESAB 205ic vs. 215ic. You can easily choose the ultimate option from our details.

Take a look at the tabulated comparison between the two popular ESAB Rebel EMP welders.

Comparison Table – 205ic vs. 215ic

Feature205ic215ic
Weight (lbs)5979.4
Dimensions16” x 23” x 9”16” x 23” x 9”
Voltage Range10V – 26V5.0V – 26.8V
Amperage Output125A/20.3V – 205A/24.3V (MIG)125A/15.0V – 205A/18.2V (TIG)125A/25.0V – 170A/26.8V (STICK)15A/14.75V – 235A/26V (MIG)5A/10.2V – 205A/18.2V (TIG-DC)10A/10.4V – 205A/18.2V (TIG-AC)16A/20.6V – 180A/27.2V (STICK)
Duty Cycle25% at 205A/24.3V (MIG)25% at 205A/18.2V (TIG)25% at 170A/26.8V (STICK)25% at 205A/24.25V (MIG)25% at 205A/18.2V (TIG)25% at 170A/26.8V (STICK)
TFT DisplayAdjustments, ControlModes, User ManualAdjustments, ControlModes, User Manual
Wire Feed Speed(Inches Per Minute)59IPM – 476IPM80IPM – 475IPM
Open Circuit Voltage68VDC68VDC

Rebel EMP 205ic vs Rebel EMP 215ic

There’s more to know about these two aside from the hand-t-hand comparison. Knowing the devices in detail can let you choose the right one. Let’s dig out the essential facts about both ESAB welders.

ESAB Rebel EMP 205ic

The all-in-one welding machine is ready to deliver the best performance in every process. It’s a portable, durable, working-anywhere welder. You better get yourself ready to handle any industrial package.

It comes with MIG, Flux-Cored, Stick, and TIG (AC + DC) applications. However, an advanced AC TIG has high-frequency starts. You can even set the frequency adjustment up to 400 Hz for balance and control.

Also, the DC TIG features a pulse mode up to 500 PPS with a dual current. An exclusive sMIG (smart MIG) integrates operator welding behaviors. You’ll get notably stable arcs/repeatable welds from there.

There is 4 programmable memory with TFT multilingual display. It lets you establish total control over the welding. Trim adjustment, inductance, and pre/post flow control come with a spot weld set.

Pros
  • 120V & 230V input workability.
  • Smart MIG control features.
  • HF arc start for the TIG welds.
  • User manual via the TFT display.
  • Simultaneous 2-gas connection.
Cons
  • Plastic gun connector.
  • Not for novice welders.

ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic

It’s more like a predecessor of 205ic with many similarities. 215ic is another multi-process welder to enable MIG, Flux-Core, Stick, and Lift TIG. You’re sure to have the best-in-class performance with this.

Larger innovative display feature notably high pixel density. You can have a clearer view of the TFT screen than others. Also, the display allows you to make necessary changes with precision in no time.

Its five-handle roll cage design comes with a unibody steel construction. So, you shouldn’t face any difficulty in carrying the unit. Take the portable machine anywhere to get the welding done perfectly.

Even smart MIG (sMIG) is available to adapt your welding behavior. Stable arcs with repeatable welds can surely increase your productivity. Don’t forget to check the on-screen user manual for assistance.

Pros
  • Dual operating modes for use.
  • No internal overheating issues.
  • High adjustment to process.
  • Burnback for no wire-freezing.
  • Integrated amplitude offset.
Cons
  • Lower-end duty cycle.
  • No spool gun included.

ESAB 205ic vs. 215ic: Similarities

There are more similarities between the two in terms of physical appearance. However, differences lie within technical details. Check out the important similarities between the two right below.

Exterior Design:

The outer design is almost the same as one another. Either one is highly portable with a unique 5-handle roll cage design. Even the assembled weight is close enough for a difficult distinction.

Input and Output:

A top-to-bottom similarity lies with the input voltage and outputs current. Both can support 120V and 230V for welding. And you’ll get either DC or AC mode to ensure the processing.

Welding Type:

Either one features MIG, TIG, Flux-Cored, and even Stick welding. You’ll have included 6010 electrodes for STICK. And there’s a smart MIG to understand your welding technique/behavior.

Weldable Metals:

You’re good to go, whether it’s mild steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. It’s true for both options. Either way – you can initiate a precise outcome through stable arcs and repeatable welds.

TFT Display:

You can change modes and control through the display. Higher pixels let you catch the screen writings quite well. Also, any operator can check into the onscreen user manuals for help.

ESAB 205ic vs. 215ic: Differences

Minor technical differences are visible in the comparison table. But you need to know the in-depth differences to make your choice. And we have essential dissimilarities right below.

TIG Start:

The most noteworthy change in 215ic from 205ic concerns TIG start. The 205ic comes with AC + DC TIG, whereas 215ic features Lift-TIG. However, either one integrates the HF system for processing.

Amperage Output:

Amp output differs for MIG, TIG, and STICK. The maximum output varies from 205A to 235A for 215ic. Also, the maximum STICK amp output lacks by 10Amp in 205ic.

Duty Cycle:

Likewise, the duty cycle varies due to the amp output. The duty cycle remains 20% or 5% for the former welder. Meanwhile, the 215ic comes with a relatively fixed 25% cycle for uses.

Performance:

You may have to struggle with lifting TIG because it is not 100% clean welds. However, 205ic has slight complexity in its application. And experienced ones can handle it better than novices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which model from the ESAB Rebel series is the best?

ESAB Rebel EMP 215ic is arguably the best one in the series.

Are ESAB welders made in the USA?

Yes, the ESAB manufacturing company rests in Union County, South Carolina.

Which one performs better – 205ic or 215ic?

Performance is better in 215ic than its predecessor (205ic).

Are ESAB Rebel welders very expensive?

ESAB Rebel EMP welders are considerably expensive, not exactly cheap.

Do 205ic and 215ic feature high-frequency TIG welding?

Yes, both ones include HF TIG, but the type of welding is different.

Wrapping Up

205ic is superior to 215ic, thanks to complete HF TIG welding. However, you can get outstanding performance with the 215ic lift welding.

Other than that, everything seems a look-alike or almost similar for the two.

Either one isn’t precisely budget-friendly, for which you need to think carefully. Otherwise, you’ll have to compromise with workplace productivity.

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