It really depends on what you want to do with it.
I do a lot of automotive steel sheet metal repair, so I went with a Hobart MVP wire feed. It does a lovely job.
I’ve also got an aluminum gas welding setup for doing old aluminum sheet metal, oxy acetylene and a Meco midget.
Both are great, require practice, and are job specific.
One thing about welding. You never stop learning how. I can honestly say I have burnt over 14 tons of rod in my lifetime. Have a Miller 200 and a Miller 259. 200 has added water cooled TIG unit for stainless and aluminum.
Don’t buy a small machine. A 220V BUZZ box will handle most small projects though. Stay away from 120V machines unless you are only welding very light stuff as you don’t get enough pen for heavier metals. Weld may look nice but won’t hold.
Was going to pick up a small portable a while back and was shocked at the price. Over $7,000 so didn’t
I rarely weld anymore as 73 with skaky hands and bad eyesight. Have thought about selling my welders but won’t.