GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories Review – Pros & Cons – GNI mini welding machine

The GNI Super MINI Welding Machine is an ultra-lightweight and highly portable 110V ARC welder designed to deliver a powerful 20-250A current output. Weighing only approximately 3.5 pounds and sized similarly to a mobile phone, this compact device is perfect for home DIY projects, automotive repairs, and outdoor emergency fixes. It utilizes advanced IGBT inverter control technology to ensure a stable arc even during voltage fluctuations, allowing for smooth and deep welds on materials like cast iron, mild steel, and stainless steel. The GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories provides a complete solution for both hobbyists and beginners looking for professional results in a handheld format.

To simplify the learning curve for new users, the machine features a microsecond-response hot start technology for quick arc ignition and an intelligent anti-stick design to prevent electrodes from sticking to the workpiece. Safety is prioritized through a comprehensive system that includes overcurrent, overheat, overvoltage, and overload protections, supported by a high-power fan for rapid heat dissipation. Every GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories is built to be versatile, supporting 98 percent of standard welding rods such as E6010, E6011, E6013, and E308 in diameters ranging from 1/16 to 1/8 inch. The clear LCD digital display allows for precise real-time current adjustments, making it easier than ever to tailor the power to specific metalworking tasks.

The comprehensive kit ensures that users can begin their metal creations immediately without the need for additional purchases. Included in the package are 20 welding rods, a pair of durable welding gloves, a chip hammer, and an earth clamp, all organized for maximum convenience. This GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories is designed for one-handed operation and can be easily stored in a toolbox or backpack, removing the site restrictions typically associated with bulky traditional welding equipment. Whether you are working on a car exhaust pipe or overhead repairs, this mini welder combines high-efficiency performance with unmatched portability for any project.

FEATURES:
– 250Amp power output
– Includes 20 welding rods
– Portable mini design
– 110V voltage input
– Hot start technology
– Arc force control
– Anti-stick function
– Beginner friendly
– Includes welding gloves

The GNI Super MINI Welding Machine is a lightweight and powerful solution designed specifically for household repairs and DIY enthusiasts. Utilizing advanced IGBT inverter technology, this compact unit delivers a stable 250A output current from a standard 110V power source. Despite its small stature, which is comparable to the size of a mobile phone, the GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories provides a professional-grade welding experience on materials like stainless steel, mild steel, and cast iron.

PROS:
– Great for small welding repairs
– Impressive performance for quick jobs
– Welds heavy stock effectively
– Works well with extension cords
– Good penetration for small projects
– Stable arc without fluctuations
– Great value for the price
– Portable and easy to use
– Includes useful welding gloves

CONS:
– Limited to small repairs only
– Not for large jobs
– Cannot handle heavy-duty work
– Poor weld strength reported
– Insufficient power at max settings
– Damaged packaging upon arrival
– Ammeter stuck at 20 amps
– Defective current adjustment knob

The GNI Super MINI Welding Machine is a portable and budget-friendly option that delivers impressive performance for small repairs and quick jobs, offering a stable arc and effective penetration even when used with extension cords. While it provides great value and convenience for beginners by including essential accessories like welding gloves, it is strictly limited to light-duty tasks and lacks the power necessary for large or industrial projects. Some users have reported durability and quality control issues, such as poor weld strength, defective adjustment knobs, frozen ammeter displays, and items arriving in damaged packaging. Read more…

Welding Rod Compatibility and Applications

Welding Rod Compatibility and Applications

This image illustrates various welding rods and their practical uses. The top section displays a large bundle of gray welding electrodes. A red text box lists compatible AWS types like E6013 and E6011. It also specifies sizes ranging from 1/16 inch to 3/32 inch. The bottom half features four distinct photographs of welding in action. One photo shows a technician performing automotive repairs on a vehicle. Another image highlights a person working on small jobs and repairs. A third panel captures a welder engaged in outdoor welding tasks. The final picture demonstrates a person working on a home DIY project. Each photo is labeled with a green text box for easy identification. The overall layout uses a dark background with bright green headings. This graphic emphasizes the versatility of the welding equipment for different projects.


Ultimate Portable Welding Machine Advertisement

Ultimate Portable Welding Machine Advertisement

This image features a compact red welding machine. The device is advertised as a portable and lightweight tool. It has a digital display showing the number two hundred fifty. A person is shown welding in the background with sparks flying. An inset image shows a hand next to the machine to demonstrate its small size. The text states the machine weighs three point five pounds. Its dimensions are roughly eight by four by five inches. The words at the top call it the ultimate portable welding machine. The design includes a sturdy black handle for easy carrying. Two black cables are plugged into the front of the red metal housing. The overall layout uses bright colors and bold text to highlight product features.


250 Amp DC Inverter Welding Machine

250 Amp DC Inverter Welding Machine

A red portable welding machine is the main focus of this image. Large white digital numbers showing 250 appear in the center. The machine features a black handle and a front control panel. A small digital display and a dial sit on the front face. Two black thick cables connect to the bottom of the unit. A welder in protective gear works in the background. Bright blue and white sparks fly from the welding point. The text at the top identifies it as a 250 amp welding machine. Three small boxes at the bottom right show different metals. These include cast iron and mild steel and sheet metal. The overall setting is an industrial workshop environment. Metal pipes and scraps are visible throughout the scene.


IGBT Technology Arc Welder Product Showcase

IGBT Technology Arc Welder Product Showcase

A promotional image displays a red arc welding machine in use. A person holds a welding clamp without gloves or protective gear. Bright white and blue light emits from the welding point. Smoke and sparks rise from the metal surface. The top text reads Arc Stable and Anti-Stick in red and white letters. Subtext mentions IGBT Tech for stable current and improved durability. Three smaller photos appear at the bottom. The first small photo shows clean metal beads on a silver surface. The middle photo displays a smooth arc on a dark metal joint. The final photo illustrates a spatter free weld with colorful heat tinting. The background is a rough outdoor ground surface.


Safety Features of a Compact MMA-250 Inverter Welder

Safety Features of a Compact MMA-250 Inverter Welder

A red MMA-250 DC inverter welding machine sits on a black and gold tiered pedestal. The machine features a digital display showing the number 250 in red. A black carrying handle is attached to the top. Light rays emanate from the side vents to illustrate a heat dissipation system. Above the welder are four gray icons representing different safety protections. These include over-heating, over-load, over-voltage, and over-current protection. The text Safety Insurance and 360 Excellent Heat Dissipation System appears at the top. The background is dark with a red hexagonal glow behind the device. This image highlights the technical safety specifications of the portable welding unit.


MMA-250 Welder Package For Beginners

MMA-250 Welder Package For Beginners

This image shows a complete welding kit designed for beginners and hobbyists. The main item is a red MMA-250 welding machine with a digital display and adjustment knob. The package includes one earth clamp and one electrode holder. It also comes with twenty welding rods and a pair of yellow protective gloves. A chip hammer is included for cleaning welds. The background is dark red with white text listing all the components. The machine features a sturdy handle for easy transport. This kit appears to provide the essential tools needed to start stick welding projects. All items are laid out clearly to show the full contents of the package.


Search results for GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder

Search results for GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder

The image shows a web search for a specific portable welding machine. The search bar at the top displays the model name GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder With Accessories. Multiple product photos appear in a grid layout. The machines are shown in various colors like red, blue, and orange. Many listings include accessories like welding gloves, cables, and rods. Some search results are from websites like Walmart and Nielsen Law Firm. One image shows a person using the welder with a protective mask. The interface includes typical search filters for images and shopping. A banner at the bottom mentions world class insurance and technical specifications. The overall display provides several options for purchasing this compact inverter welder.


GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder Search Results

GNI Super Mini 250A ARC Welder Search Results

The image shows a digital collection of search results for a GNI portable arc welding machine. A search bar at the top displays the product name with multiple filter options. Several product photos fill the grid below the search bar. The welders appear in various colors including red, yellow, and grey. Many listings feature the welding unit alongside accessories like electrodes and protective gloves. One image shows a welder in use with bright sparks and a welding mask. Several websites are listed as sources including Walmart and various retail domains. The machines are compact and designed for easy transport. Some images highlight technical features such as digital displays and safety certifications. The overall layout is typical of a modern image search interface.


Google Shopping search results for mini ARC welders

Google Shopping search results for mini ARC welders

The image displays a Google Shopping search page. The search bar at the top shows a query for a super mini 250 amp ARC welder with accessories. Ten different product listings are visible in a grid format. Most of the welders are small and orange or red in color. One model is light blue and shaped like a standard suitcase. The prices for these machines range from approximately forty three dollars to ninety six dollars. Retailers include TikTok Shop, eBay, Walmart, and other online stores. Many listings highlight free delivery and thirty day returns. Some products include accessory kits with gloves and welding rods. One unique listing shows a handheld welding gun instead of a box unit. The interface includes the standard Google logo and shopping filters. The overall layout is clean and organized for online shopping.


YouTube Search Results for GNI Super Mini Welder

YouTube Search Results for GNI Super Mini Welder

The image shows a YouTube search page with several video results for a portable welding machine. The top result is a review of the GNI Super MINI Welder from three months ago. This video features a red welding machine and various accessories like gloves and welding rods. Below it is a longer video titled Small Portable Welder Review and Unboxing 4K. This second video shows a man in a red shirt standing in a workshop with the device on a workbench. The third video at the bottom of the screen focuses on testing the cheapest welder available on Amazon. Each listing displays the video title and view count alongside the channel name. The interface includes the standard YouTube sidebar with icons for Home and Shorts. Navigation elements and a search bar are visible at the top of the browser window. The overall layout highlights the compact size and affordability of these DIY tools.


About WelderReview.com

WelderReview.com reviews a wide range of welding machines and other related tools such as welding helmets, carts, clamps, gloves, kits, hoods, masks, rods, wires and other welding accessories from leading brands such as Millar, Lincoln, Hobart and others.

View all posts by WelderReview.com →

Best Gni Super Mini 250a Arc Welder Deals

Super Mini Stick Welder Machine,110V 250A ARC Portable MMA Welding Machine for Beginners,Welding Machine with 10pcs Welding Rod Tools,IGBT Inverter Welder,Hot Start Arc Force Anti-stick (Red)

Image of Super Mini Stick Welder Machine,110V 250A ARC Portable MMA Welding Machine for Beginners,Welding Machine with 10pcs Welding Rod Tools,IGBT Inverter Welder,Hot Start Arc Force Anti-stick (Red)

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【HOT START ARC FORCE ANTI-STICK】The Stick Welder with built-in hot start and Arc-force function,Can achieve the perfect weld.Reduce the damage of Copper and Iron,obviously increase the welding frequency,more energy efficient. Welder machine suitable for the welding rods E6013, E7018, E6011, E6010, E308 of 1/16"-3/32".Perfect suit for welding carbon steel and other metals.(if you want to weld stainless steel,it is recommended that you use a special welding electrode for stainless steel.)
  • ✅ 【SAFE AND STABLE】Welding machine upgraded IGBT inverter technology keeps the arc stable and the weld seam smooth.Built-in automatic Anti-stick, compensation for voltage fluctuation, over current protection, over heat protection, over and under-voltage protection, short circuit damage protection, to make sure safely operation and long life for the welding kit.
  • ✅ 【SUPER SMALL,LIGHTWEIGHT, AND PORTABLE】The HGNVGZ Mini Welder with unique compact design,small.Dimension: 8"x3"x4.5",Weight is only 3.5lbs,Portable carry with adjustable shoulder strap,easier to carry around and free your hands.Iron shell material,more durable.Super MMA welding Machine Perfect for hobbyists, home DIY,outdoor maintenance and general maintenance.
  • ✅ 【GREAT VALUE COMPLETE RANGE OF ACCESSORIES-eg:15PCS welding rods】You get 15 PCS of E6013 electrodes Comes with 10ft electrode holder cable & 10ft work clamp.There are also leather gloves to protect your hands,brushes and masks, great value ARC Welder accessory kits,don't spend extra money on accessories, this is a great choice for your welding!

Super Mini Stick Welder Machine,110V 250A ARC Portable MMA Welding Machine for Beginners,Welding Machine with 10pcs Welding Rod Tools,IGBT Inverter Welder,Hot Start Arc Force Anti-stick (Gray)

Image of Super Mini Stick Welder Machine,110V 250A ARC Portable MMA Welding Machine for Beginners,Welding Machine with 10pcs Welding Rod Tools,IGBT Inverter Welder,Hot Start Arc Force Anti-stick (Gray)

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【HOT START ARC FORCE ANTI-STICK】The Stick Welder with built-in hot start and Arc-force function,Can achieve the perfect weld.Reduce the damage of Copper and Iron,obviously increase the welding frequency,more energy efficient. Welder machine suitable for the welding rods E6013, E7018, E6011, E6010, E308 of 1/16"-3/32".Perfect suit for welding carbon steel and other metals.(if you want to weld stainless steel,it is recommended that you use a special welding electrode for stainless steel.)
  • ✅ 【SAFE AND STABLE】Welding machine upgraded IGBT inverter technology keeps the arc stable and the weld seam smooth.Built-in automatic Anti-stick, compensation for voltage fluctuation, over current protection, over heat protection, over and under-voltage protection, short circuit damage protection, to make sure safely operation and long life for the welding kit.
  • ✅ 【SUPER SMALL,LIGHTWEIGHT, AND PORTABLE】The HGNVGZ Mini Welder with unique compact design,small.Dimension: 8"x3"x4.5",Weight is only 3.5lbs,Portable carry with adjustable shoulder strap,easier to carry around and free your hands.Iron shell material,more durable.Super MMA welding Machine Perfect for hobbyists, home DIY,outdoor maintenance and general maintenance.
  • ✅ 【GREAT VALUE COMPLETE RANGE OF ACCESSORIES-eg:15PCS welding rods】You get 15 PCS of E6013 electrodes Comes with 10ft electrode holder cable & 10ft work clamp.There are also leather gloves to protect your hands,brushes and masks, great value ARC Welder accessory kits,don't spend extra money on accessories, this is a great choice for your welding!

Hpoouo 200Amp 20PCS Rods Stick Welder, Super MINI Portable Welding Machine

Image of Hpoouo 200Amp 20PCS Rods Stick Welder, Super MINI Portable Welding Machine

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【200Amp Power for Home Repairs & DIY】 This 110V stick welder Adjustable Current: 20-200A. Easily weld metal materials with 0.06-0.2 inch thickness, such as cast iron, mild steel, etc. For stainless steel, use E308L-16 rods only. Includes 20 welding rods right out of the box, so you can start your first project immediately.
  • ✅ 【SUPER MINI PORTABLE WELDING MACHINE】Hpoouo Stick welder 110V is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, size: 7.8 x 3.9 x 5.3 inches; fits in a backpack or toolbox. Weighs only 3.7 lbs—no more lugging around heavy equipment. Take this mini welder machine 110v anywhere you need to weld—garage, rooftop, farm, or remote job site. No struggling, no bulky gear. Just grab and go.
  • ✅ 【ADVANCED DIGITAL IGBT INVERTER CONTROL TECHNOLOGY】The stick welding machine 110V adopts advanced and exclusive IGBT inverter control technology,which can adjust the output current in microseconds and improve the reliability of the small welding machine, and can perform well when welding both thin plates and thick structures.Powerful arc force provides smoother welding and deeper penetration, keeps the arc stable with beautiful beads, making it a reliable choice for beginners and hobbyists.
  • ✅ 【HOT START ARC FORCE ANTI-STICK】The mini welder has hot start, anti-sticking and arc pushing force functions, which make the mini welding machine start arc quickly and weld more smoothly, avoiding the rods sticking in the molten pool. Built-in over-voltage, over-current, over-heating and overload protection as well as a high-power fan accelerate heat dissipation, ensure safe operation while prolonging the service life of the small welding machine.

Hpoouo 200Amp 20PCS Rods Stick Welder, Super MINI Portable Welding Machine

Image of Hpoouo 200Amp 20PCS Rods Stick Welder, Super MINI Portable Welding Machine

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【200Amp Power for Home Repairs & DIY】 This 110V stick welder Adjustable Current: 20-200A. Easily weld metal materials with 0.06-0.2 inch thickness, such as cast iron, mild steel, etc. For stainless steel, use E308L-16 rods only. Includes 20 welding rods right out of the box, so you can start your first project immediately.
  • ✅ 【SUPER MINI PORTABLE WELDING MACHINE】Hpoouo Stick welder 110V is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, size: 7.8 x 3.9 x 5.3 inches; fits in a backpack or toolbox. Weighs only 3.7 lbs—no more lugging around heavy equipment. Take this mini welder machine 110v anywhere you need to weld—garage, rooftop, farm, or remote job site. No struggling, no bulky gear. Just grab and go.
  • ✅ 【ADVANCED DIGITAL IGBT INVERTER CONTROL TECHNOLOGY】The stick welding machine 110V adopts advanced and exclusive IGBT inverter control technology,which can adjust the output current in microseconds and improve the reliability of the small welding machine, and can perform well when welding both thin plates and thick structures.Powerful arc force provides smoother welding and deeper penetration, keeps the arc stable with beautiful beads, making it a reliable choice for beginners and hobbyists.
  • ✅ 【HOT START ARC FORCE ANTI-STICK】The mini welder has hot start, anti-sticking and arc pushing force functions, which make the mini welding machine start arc quickly and weld more smoothly, avoiding the rods sticking in the molten pool. Built-in over-voltage, over-current, over-heating and overload protection as well as a high-power fan accelerate heat dissipation, ensure safe operation while prolonging the service life of the small welding machine.

HONE Stick Welder 110v, Upgraded 205Amp Mini Welding Machine with Lift Tig Welding, IGBT Inverter Arc Welder Machine 110v with Hot Start Arc Force Anti-Stick VRD for 1/16"-1/8" Rod, Include 25 Rods.

Image of HONE Stick Welder 110v, Upgraded 205Amp Mini Welding Machine with Lift Tig Welding, IGBT Inverter Arc Welder Machine 110v with Hot Start Arc Force Anti-Stick VRD for 1/16"-1/8" Rod, Include 25 Rods.

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟓𝐀 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤】The HONE mini welder machine 110v provides adjustable current of 20-205A, can weld metal materials with 0.05-0.22 inch thickness workpiece. easily for low-carbon steel, cast iron, mild steel, stainless steel, and other metal materials. Comes with 25PCS high-quality welding rods, ideal for small DIY projects and home repair work.
  • ✅ 【𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧】This small welder has unique compact design, the dimension: 8.4"x 3.7"x 5.3", weight is only 4.4lbs. You can take this arc welder easily to wherever you need to work, whether working outdoors, indoors or at height, and that it is small, doesn't occupy the space of your truck, garrage.
  • ✅ 【𝟐-𝐈𝐍-𝟏 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫】You can choose Stick or Lift-TIG mode as you want. One machine, two modes. Just touch the tungsten electrode to the workpiece and lift off, easily arc starting, don't need to scratch it, it's like you getting a TIG welder for free. Remind: TIG torch not include.
  • ✅ 【𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐆𝐁𝐓 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲】The small welding machine adopts upgraded IGBT inverter technology which provids precise current adjustment in microseconds, ensuring stable arc on both thin and thick metals. you can experiece the smoother welding and deeper penetration, has pretty nice beads, enjoy perfect welding.elding.

SOARFLY Stick Welder, 110V/220V Dual Voltage Welding Machine

Image of SOARFLY Stick Welder, 110V/220V Dual Voltage Welding Machine

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【Dual Voltage 110V/220V】- Compatible with both household and jobsite power sources. Automatically adapts to 110V or 220V input for ultimate flexibility across workshops, homes, farms, and construction sites. Note: 220V use requires an adapter (NOT included)
  • ✅ 【Powerful 250Amp Output】- This 250A small welder delivers a strong 250A current, capable of welding electrodes in the range of 2.5-3.2mm (approximately 3/32-1/8 inch) on stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron, and more. Perfect for maintenance, fabrication, and home repair projects
  • ✅ 【Large LED Display for Real-Time Monitoring】- Bright and easy-to-read LED screen shows current and welding mode at a glance—no need to remove your helmet to check settings
  • ✅ 【Advanced IGBT Inverter Technology】- This mini welder uses efficient IGBT inverter control for a stable arc, less spatter, and improved weld quality. Perfect for both beginners and experienced welders

250Amp Stick Welder 110V/220V Dual Voltage, with LED Display ARC Welding Machine w/Hot Start, IGBT Inverter, Portable Welder with Complete Kit (10 Rods, Clamps, Gloves), Anti-Stick for Home/Diy/Farm

Image of 250Amp Stick Welder 110V/220V Dual Voltage, with LED Display ARC Welding Machine w/Hot Start, IGBT Inverter, Portable Welder with Complete Kit (10 Rods, Clamps, Gloves), Anti-Stick for Home/Diy/Farm

Product Highlights

  • ✅ 【DUAL VOLTAGE 110V/220V AUTO-SWITCHING】- This welder automatically detects and adapts to any standard 110V household outlet or 220V jobsite power source. Unleash ultimate portability for farm repairs, automotive projects, construction sites, and home workshops without voltage anxiety. (220V adapter sold separately)
  • ✅ 【TRUE 250AMP PROFESSIONAL POWER】- COMMERCIAL-GRADE PERFORMANCE IN A PORTABLE PACKAGE. Weld up to 3/32" to 1/8" (2.5–3.2 mm) electrodes with relentless 250A output that tackles stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron, and sheet metal with deep penetration. Perfect for fabrication, heavy-duty maintenance, and serious DIY projects. Built to professional performance standards.
  • ✅ 【LARGE LED DISPLAY - SETTINGS AT A GLANCE】- NEVER REMOVE YOUR HELMET MID-WELD! Our bright, intuitive digital screen shows real-time current and mode settings with crystal clarity. Designed for welders who value precision and efficiency, saving you time and frustration on every project.
  • ✅ 【ADVANCED IGBT INVERTER & VOLTAGE COMPENSATION】- ENGINEERED FOR A SMOOTH, STABLE ARC. Our advanced IGBT inverter technology delivers superior arc stability with significantly less spatter. Features intelligent voltage compensation that maintains a consistent arc even with fluctuating input power—perfect for rural areas or long extension cords.

YESWELDER 125Amp Mini Stick Welder IGBT ARC Welding Machine

Image of YESWELDER 125Amp Mini Stick Welder IGBT ARC Welding Machine

Product Highlights

  • ✅ Suitable for Beginner:20-125 amps suitable weld thin workpiece and easy DIY projects. Ideal for E6011, E6013, E6010, E7018 welding rods below 1/8 inch.
  • ✅ Large LED Display: Compared to other traditional displays, our intelligent LED display can help you see the data more clearly, such as the current, function mode and welding mode. Value knob design adjustment is more convenient and preciseeasily - used without removing the helmet and gloves
  • ✅ Portable and Lightweight: Compact design (9.3*3.7*5.1 inch), weighing in at just under 4.4 lbs.(2kg), easy to carry with the handle. Storage and transportation are more convenient, especially suitable for on-site operations, high-altitude operations, or work scenarios with limited space.
  • ✅ Safety: Our stick welder have automatic compensation for voltage fluctuation, over current protection, over load protection, temperature control. Automatically adapt to unstable grid voltage to prevent equipment damage or safety accidents caused by excessive current or machine overheating. Ensures safer operation and extends the machine's lifespan.
Please share this:

Facebook         Twitter         Linkedin         Pinterest        

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *