looking to buy my first welder

A few years ago I got a Hobart 140 off CL for $225 including an empty bottle and the gauges.

I see they are $520 new without bottle, etc.

It's done everything I've asked it to do.

Hobart specific parts are at Tractor Supply.
That could come into play on a brand without local support.

Lincoln is at Lowes.

Either brand is quality.

Either will do flux.

After you you flux a few times...the first time you do MIG, you will likely not want to go back to flux.