Hobart Champion 100 Generator Welder
The Hobart Champion 100 is a dependable entry-level engine-driven welder/generator combo well suited for farmers, ranchers, and light fabrication work where portable power and welding capability are both needed.
- Rated output
- 30–100 A
- Steel window
- 0.8–2.5 mm
- Mass
- 329 lbs (149 kg)
- Engine
- Kohler Command PRO 20HP OHV
- Welds and generates power
- Reliable Kohler engine start
- Portable farm-ready design
Affiliate link — WeldFoundry takes a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. It has no bearing on the grade above, which is set against the other 14 entries in Engine-Driven Welders.
Running it
The Hobart Champion 100 is a rugged, gas-engine-driven welder generator built for professionals and hobbyists who need dependable power in the field, on the farm, or at the jobsite where standard electrical service isn't available. Powered by a Kohler engine, this machine delivers a solid 100 amps of continuous DC welding output, making it well suited for stick welding on light to moderate gauge steel, general repair work, fabrication, and maintenance tasks. Its compact footprint and manageable weight make it easy to transport in a truck bed or trailer, while the simple, no-frills control panel keeps operation straightforward even for users who are new to engine-driven welding equipment. Beyond its welding capability, the Champion 100 doubles as a auxiliary power generator, supplying up to 3,500 watts of usable AC power for running grinders, lights, drills, and other shop or site tools. This dual-purpose design makes it a practical investment for contractors, ranchers, and DIY welders who want both dependable arc welding performance and backup electrical power in a single unit. The generator side features standard receptacles, allowing users to plug in corded tools directly without needing a separate power source, which is especially valuable for remote repairs or off-grid projects where downtime isn't an option. Built with Hobart's reputation for durability in mind, the Champion 100 features a rugged steel frame, protective engine cover, and accessible fuel and oil points that simplify routine maintenance in the field. The DC output produces a stable, smooth arc that helps reduce spatter and improves weld quality on thinner materials, while the recoil-start engine ensures quick startup even in cooler conditions. For welders who need a portable, no-nonsense machine that combines dependable arc welding with usable auxiliary power, the Hobart Champion 100 stands out as an efficient, entry-level solution within Hobart's line of engine-driven welding equipment, offering solid performance without the complexity or cost of larger industrial units.
The Hobart Champion 100 is a dependable entry-level engine-driven welder/generator combo well suited for farmers, ranchers, and light fabrication work where portable power and welding capability are both needed. It won't replace a dedicated high-output welder for heavy industrial use, but for maintenance welding and small-to-medium repair jobs paired with basic generator needs, it delivers solid value and Hobart's known reliability.
The full plate
As stated by the manufacturer, 5 lines.
| Engine | Kohler Command PRO 20HP OHV |
|---|---|
| Welding Output | 100A DC max, 30-100A range |
| Generator Output | 4000W peak / 3500W running AC |
| Weight | 329 lbs (149 kg) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 8 gallons (30.3 L) |
What holds up
- Reliable engine start even in cold weather
- Dual-purpose use as welder and power generator
- Portable design suitable for farm and jobsite use
- Solid arc stability for stick welding thin to medium metal
- Simple maintenance with widely available Kohler parts
What costs you
- Heavier than expected for a 'portable' unit
- No spool gun capability for aluminum welding out of the box
- Generator output insufficient for large power tools simultaneously
- Fuel tank capacity limits extended runtime under heavy load
Stated features
- Kohler Command PRO 20HP gas engine
- 100A DC welding output for stick and wire welding
- 4000-watt peak AC generator power output
- Onboard 20V DC auxiliary power for battery charging
- Compact steel frame with fold-down handle and wheel kit
- Easy-access analog fuel and choke controls
4 people who bought it
Been using this for fence repairs and small equipment fixes around the property. Starts every time, welds clean beads on 1/8 inch steel, and the generator side comes in handy when the power's out. Wish it had a bit more portability but overall very happy.
Does exactly what Hobart says it does. Welds well, engine is reliable. Just be prepared - it's not a light lift by yourself. Two people or a hitch mount is recommended for moving it around.
Used it mostly for gate repairs and trailer fixes. The AC output is nice for running lights and small tools when we're off-grid. Not meant for heavy-duty industrial welding, but for what I need, it's perfect.
Works fine for stick welding steel, but if you want to weld aluminum you'll need to add a spool gun setup separately. Would've liked that included at this price point.
Three entries that sit next to it
Nearest standings in the ledger. Tick one to add it to the cross-reference sheet on the front page.
| 13 | Hobart Champion 145 Hobart · Engine-Driven Welders | 145 A | 4.5 / 5 | C | ||
| 12 | Hobart Champion Elite Hobart · Engine-Driven Welders | 225 A | 4.6 / 5 | C | ||
| 11 | Miller Electric Big Blue 400 Pro Miller Electric · Engine-Driven Welders | 400 A | 4.6 / 5 | B |
