Do I Want A Regulator or Flowmeter?

[malibu101]

If a guy had to buy a new "regulator" to replace a broken one on his MIG welder which one should he chose and why.
For example-----
A regulator- http://www.welding-direct.com/sinstagflowg.html
Or a flowmeter- http://www.welding-direct.com/sinstagflowr.html

The money difference between them is not huge.
The guy had a regulator that served him well for many years; Why would he change to a flowmeter?
Do you get what you pay for?
The guy is not building rocketships but likes the good stuff.
What do you have? Why do you have it?
I kinda like the floating ball thing (flowmeter) :bounce:

I will be heading to the local welding supply house after work Monday.
Any replies are appreciated!

[nate379]

Regulator is more common (cheaper?) Flowmeter is nice because you can see if the gas is correct 10-15ft away where the regulator you have to be up closer.

[Stephenw]

Those are both flow meters, just different styles. I prefer the "floating ball" type. Mine I think is a Smith brand. I never priced them online, but locally, the floating ball type is nearly twice the price.

[malibu101]

Those are both flow meters, just different styles. I prefer the "floating ball" type. Mine I think is a Smith brand. I never priced them online, but locally, the floating ball type is nearly twice the price.

I may have to shop online depending on what I find Monday.
~$20 between both seemed reasonable. Double the cost for the ball, I could do without it for that cost.