Check out welding tips, and tricks on youtube. The guy, Jodi, does a ton of great videos. A couple vids are testing several affordable machines. He goes into good detail about the capabilities, and limitations of each, including cost.
His vids are also very helpful. I've learned a bunch from his vids.
He's the man. I think I've watched every video. Great instructor. His arc shots are better than the giant corporations. A benefit to society.