A lot would depend on the model you were looking at since obviously different manufacturers will be offering different features. In terms of quality they are all manufacturers of top grade kit though Portamig's products are probably not aimed primarily at the industrial markets the others aim for. Murex, ESAB and Kemppi are all European brands, while Lincoln is American. Having said that I have a Lincoln and it was made in France. In terms of after sales service, there are a large number of Portamig owners here who have received excellent service from Weldequip. After sales on the Lincoln is not amazing in this country. I've emailed them several times and never once had a reply, but fortunately I've not needed anything urgent. I can't really comment on the service from the others but I would expect it to be good. In fact I think ESAB and Murex are now one and the same.
It's another one of those 'horses for courses' situations really. They are all respected manufacturers.
I have the Portamig 185 and absolutely love it, but it is certainly not 'portable'. I can wheel it around the workshop OK but wouldn't want to have to lift it into the truck too many times!
Wyn has the Kemppi minarc mig 180? That definately is portable and Kemppi have a very good reputation. Wyn should be able to give his comments on the machine.
Murex also do a DIY machine - Transmig 141 - in addition to their pro stuff.
It all depends on what you want to do with it, and of course what you are willing to spend.
The only real way to test them back to back is to get a bunch of owners together for a day somewhere, but it will still come back to preference and need.
Cheers, TechnicAl. I'll stick the number in my book in case it ever goes wrong. If I'd had a serious problem I'd have rung someone already but it's been solid as a rock since I've had it. BTW, I got some SupraMIG wire eventually, and must agree that it's extremely good. Much less spatter than with whatever I was using before.
Thanks for all your replies, I think I'm going for a Portamig 215 or 235. depends if Weldequips having any Xmas offers - eh Steve. His efforts on the forum and service should not really be overlooked.
thanks all - btw if I don't reply to posts quickly it's due to my internet access being restricted.