Decision making: 250ex vs 256 vs 256S

[adametal]

Hi there,

I am looking to purchase a new welder within a couple days. I am having a hard time between the PT250ex and the PP256. I am not too worried about duty cycle or lesser settings with the powerpro because having a plasma cutter definitely makes up for it. Is there much difference between the PP256 and the PP256S, other than the regulator?

My guess is to go with the my budget plan with either the 2013 250ex or the older PP256 (if there's not too much difference with 2013 model). I don't have a compressor at the moment either, so I am not sure if I am over my head wanting to have a plasma cutter in the mix.

I plan to use the welder for mostly TIG involving mild steel, stainless, and aluminum. However I have some outdoor projects lined up for SMAW as well.

If any of you have any thoughts feel free to let me know as any input would be greatly appreciated.

[acourtjester]

HI
I have a PM256 older model and I have used the plasma on a small CNC table I built. I am not worried about the duty cycle as I cut small parts no long runs and it works fine. It seems the compressor is you big question, if your are coming to buy a compressor latter buy the pm 256 multi now. And when you get the compressor you are ready to use the plasma. If you don’t buy it now you will have the added expense latter for a plasma unit. Some time when you stand back and look at the bigger picture it helps making up your mind.
My 2 cents worth.

[zoama]

My vote is for the 2013 250EX then pick up a PP50 later.

[performance]

The S series has replaced the 256. In other words, there is no 256.

I'm with Zoama on this one.

[Mr120]

The S series has replaced the 256. In other words, there is no 256.

I'm with Zoama on this one.

I'm with Zoama and Performance! If you have a choice, I'd go with separate welder and plasma cutter units. My 2 cents.

[adametal]

Thanks for all your input!

performace, there are some older 256 models on sale on ebay for a pretty good deal. See here:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Everlast-Pow...item337881c2e6

If it wasn't for that I would probably go with the 250ex. And acourtjester's thinking is similar to what I had in mind...

I will let ya'll know when this indecisive guy makes up his mind, if ever.

[performance]

Thanks for all your input!

performace, there are some older 256 models on sale on ebay for a pretty good deal. See here:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Everlast-Pow...item337881c2e6

If it wasn't for that I would probably go with the 250ex. And acourtjester's thinking is similar to what I had in mind...

I will let ya'll know when this indecisive guy makes up his mind, if ever.

That's NOT an older model. See the picture? It's got an S and new style.

The 256S is lacking several key features, including low amp start capability on AC. A lot of people always "miss" what is missing on these units.

Your warranty will not be valid if you use the 256 for CNC use. Some older models had the connection, for those we will, but not for the current ones.

[adametal]

That's NOT an older model. See the picture? It's got an S and new style.

The 256S is lacking several key features, including low amp start capability on AC. A lot of people always "miss" what is missing on these units.

Your warranty will not be valid if you use the 256 for CNC use. Some older models had the connection, for those we will, but not for the current ones.

Gotcha, thanks for letting me know! I wasn't planning on any CNC, more just quick cuts and beveling plate so I could practice doing some bend tests.

Along with low amp start capability on AC, are the two other missing key features the spot weld timer and lift arc?

[zoama]

Gotcha, thanks for letting me know! I wasn't planning on any CNC, more just quick cuts and beveling plate so I could practice doing some bend tests.

Along with low amp start capability on AC, are the two other missing key features the spot weld timer and lift arc?

The 250 EX also has almost double the duty cycle at full power.

[everlastsupport]

If it's in the budget and you dig a bit on the forum. You will find the 250EX and PP50 are a great combo, many have asked this.

The 256 (old and new) are fine too, but you can not go wrong with the 250EX and PP50.

[adametal]

I appreciate the help, guys. Gonna purchase the 250ex now as it seems to make the most sense for me in the long run. I am working on "fireproofing" the garage and getting it wired with 220 in a few days, so hopefully I can lay some beads down as soon as next week!

[Kempy]

Adametal
I have a 250EX I just got a few months ago and I love it compared to my Hobart it weld so much nicer and ease to move around the shop. I let welder friend's of mine have try it and now they are considering get one they liked it so much. By the way well come to the Everlast forum there are a lot of good people on it ready to give you help.

[adametal]

That's great to hear, Kempy. I am glad its working out for you. From what I have heard and seen online, it seems like the best choice for me and I can't wait to try it out.