Welding is one of the most important processes in metal fabrication and construction. It joins two pieces of metal together by melting them and fusing them into one strong, solid piece. But not all welding is the same. Two of the most common and widely used types are MIG welding and TIG welding. Each has its own strengths, uses, and techniques.

If you’re unsure which one is best for your next project, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between MIG and TIG welding in simple terms and help you choose the right method depending on your needs. We’ll also show how fabrication experts like Kirmell Ltd use both techniques to serve clients across various industries.

What is MIG Welding?

MIG welding stands for Metal Inert Gas welding, also known as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW). In this method, a wire electrode is automatically fed through a welding gun. The gun also releases a shielding gas (like argon or a mix of gases) to protect the molten metal from contamination in the air.

The wire acts both as the electrode and the filler material. As it melts, it fills the gap between the two metal pieces, joining them together.

Key Features of MIG Welding:

• Fast and efficient: MIG welding is known for its speed.
• Easy to learn: Good for beginners or large-volume production.
• Ideal for thin to medium-thickness metals.
• Requires less cleanup than some other welding types.

What is TIG Welding?

TIG welding stands for Tungsten Inert Gas welding, also known as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW). Instead of using a wire feed, TIG welding uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to create the arc. A separate filler rod is manually fed into the weld area, while shielding gas (usually pure argon) protects the weld. Welding gas for a MIG welder is also sometimes an argon/carbon dioxide mix

TIG welding is a slower and more precise process. It gives the welder more control over the weld, making it ideal for detailed and delicate work.

Key Features of TIG Welding:

• Highly precise and clean welds.
• Best for thin materials and critical joints.
• More difficult to learn, but produces high-quality results.
• Can weld more types of metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, copper, and titanium.

Read in detail about other types of welding in our separate guide and understand the function of each.

What Are the Main Differences Between MIG and TIG Welding?

Let’s compare them side by side to help you see the differences clearly:

Read in detail about the technical differences between MIG and TIG welding.

When Should You Use MIG Welding?

MIG welding is an excellent choice for:

• High-volume production: Because it’s fast, it’s ideal for large quantities.
• Thicker metals: It handles heavy materials like mild steel and stainless steel very well.
• Structural work: Frames, brackets, automotive parts, and general fabrication.
• Outdoor welding (with proper shielding gases and equipment).

It’s also preferred when appearance is not the top concern, but speed and strength are.

At Kirmell, we often use MIG welding for projects that require reliable joints at scale, especially in the production of brackets, supports, and medium-duty industrial components. Contact us now for your welding projects, and let our experienced staff help you with the most efficient and high-quality welding solution for your needs.  

When Should You Use TIG Welding?

TIG welding is the better option when:

• You need a neat and clean finish.
• The metal is very thin, like sheet aluminium or stainless steel.
• The weld must be highly precise, such as in aerospace, medical equipment, or food-grade applications.
• You’re welding speciality metals that require careful control.

TIG is especially valuable for projects where appearance matters just as much as strength. At Kirmell, we use TIG welding for precision-critical applications where clean, accurate, and high-quality welds are essential, such as in stainless steel enclosures, bespoke components, and specialist assemblies.

What To Consider When Choosing Between MIG and TIG?

Choosing the right welding method isn’t just about picking one that “looks” better it depends on the specific needs of your project. Here are the key factors you should carefully consider before deciding whether to go with MIG or TIG welding:

• Type of Metal Being Welded

Different metals behave differently when welded. MIG welding is excellent for mild steel, stainless steel, and other commonly used metals. It works well in industrial settings where fast welding is needed on thicker, tougher materials.

On the other hand, TIG welding is more suitable for non-ferrous metals such as aluminium, magnesium, copper, and titanium. These metals are more sensitive and require a more controlled welding method. TIG offers control and is especially useful when working with materials that need clean, high-quality finishes or are part of precision products.

• Thickness of the Material

Material thickness plays a major role in deciding the welding method. MIG welding is ideal for medium to thick materials, as it can quickly deposit filler metal and create strong welds that penetrate deeply.

TIG welding, by contrast, excels at thin-gauge materials where heat control is crucial. If you use MIG on very thin sheets, it might cause burn-through or warping. So, if you’re welding thin stainless steel panels, delicate tubing, or aluminium sheets, TIG gives you the finesse needed to avoid damaging the material.

• Required Weld Appearance and Cleanliness

Not all welds are hidden. If your project involves visible joints, like in decorative furniture, exposed piping, or artistic structures, the appearance of the weld becomes important.

TIG welding is known for producing clean, smooth, and visually appealing welds, often without needing extra grinding or finishing. This makes it ideal for jobs where aesthetics matter, like food processing equipment, kitchen installations, or display pieces.

MIG welds, while strong and efficient, can be messier and may require post-weld cleaning to remove spatter and improve the look.

• Speed and Efficiency of the Process

If your project is large and requires many welds in a short time, a MIG welding welder is a better choice. It’s much faster than TIG, mainly because it uses a continuous wire feed that allows you to weld for longer periods without stopping to replace electrodes or manually feed filler rods.

TIG welding, while slower, offers better precision and control. It’s a great fit for high-quality work but may not be the most time-efficient method for bulk jobs or tight production deadlines.

• Skill Level and Labour Costs

Your team’s experience and available skillset are also important. MIG welding is often recommended for beginners or for teams that need to train operators quickly. The process is semi-automated, making it easier to produce consistent results even with less experience.

TIG welding, on the other hand, is more technically demanding. The TIG welding process requires steady hands, careful coordination between the torch and filler rod, and a solid understanding of weld pool control. This means more time spent on training or higher labour costs if hiring skilled TIG welders.

• Environment and Working Conditions

Welding conditions can affect the choice, too. MIG welding is generally better suited for outdoor or less controlled environments (though wind shielding is still required). In contrast, TIG welding is best performed indoors or in stable environments, where there’s full control over factors like humidity, airflow, and cleanliness.

If your welding has to be done on a job site with unpredictable weather or limited equipment setup, MIG is more practical because MIG welding equipment is smaller compared to TIG. 

Industries That Use MIG and TIG Welding

Both welding methods are used across many industries, often depending on the project’s needs:

• Automotive: MIG for structural components, TIG for fuel tanks and exhaust systems.
• Aerospace: TIG welding is widely used due to the need for high precision.
• Construction: MIG welding is preferred for fast, durable joints in structural frameworks.
• Medical and Food Equipment: TIG welding is ideal for clean, contamination-free welds.
  Art and Architecture: TIG welding allows for visually attractive joints in sculpture and design.

A Look Inside Kirmell’s Welding Capabilities

At Kirmell Ltd, welding is one of the core services we provide. With decades of experience and a fully equipped facility, we use both MIG and TIG welding to handle a wide range of fabrication projects from simple metal brackets to complex assemblies.

Whether it’s speed, accuracy, or a smooth finish you need, we’ll select the right method to match your goals. Our team works with mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and more, always delivering high-quality, long-lasting welds.

Conclusion

So, which is better, MIG or TIG? The answer really depends on your project.

If your priority is speed, volume, and affordability, MIG is a smart choice. It’s efficient, beginner-friendly, and perfect for general manufacturing tasks.

If you need precision, a polished look, or you’re working with thinner or speciality metals, then TIG will give you the superior result you’re after, even if it takes more time and effort.

Still unsure? A professional fabrication team can help you decide which method suits your goals.

Need Expert Welding Support? Trust Kirmell Ltd

At Kirmell Ltd, we offer professional MIG and TIG welding services as part of our wider fabrication solutions. Whether you’re creating prototypes, small custom parts, or high-volume production runs, our team is ready to assist.

With the right tools, experienced welders, and quality assurance at every step, we ensure that your components are built to last and match your exact specifications.

Ready to start your welding project? Contact us today at sales@kirmell.co.uk or visit the contact us page and fill out the form with your details, and our expert will reach out to you.

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