Zapp Plus 2 vs. Helix: A Real Artist’s Comparison

Breanna Murnock is an experienced permanent jewelry artist. As one who regularly works high-volume events like bridal shows and corporate pop-ups, Breanna knows what it takes for a welder to perform under pressure. She should know: She has two different welders. She shared a head-to-head comparison between two: The Sunstone Zapp Plus 2 and the Pepetools Helix.

Her verdict?

“If I’m having to pick between the two, I’m going to pick the Zapp Plus 2.0 every single time.”

Here’s why the Zapp Plus 2 clearly comes out ahead.

1. Reliable Performance—No Misfires

When speed and consistency matter, misfires can slow down your entire setup. Breanna reported that her Helix occasionally misfires—sometimes three or four times in a row. The Zapp Plus 2? “The Zapp doesn’t have that issue at all.”

Consistent ignition means fewer do-overs, faster turnaround, and more satisfied clients—especially critical at mobile or high-traffic events.

2. Perfect Weld Quality

Using identical settings—7 joules on a 22-gauge, 3mm sterling silver jump ring—Breanna showed that the Zapp Plus 2 delivered a clean, smooth weld with almost no residue.

“It’s basically a perfect, rounded jump ring. Beautiful.”

In contrast, the Helix weld appeared a little “bumpy-lumpy”, even when it fired correctly.

3. Designed for Mobility

For artists on the go, portability makes a difference. Breanna highlighted how the Zapp Plus 2 is lighter and easier to travel with:

·         The stylus disconnects easily with a quick-release sleeve.

·         The six-foot stylus cord offers double the reach of the Helix’s fixed three-foot cord.

·         The cord’s flexibility allows for smooth, comfortable movement during bracelets, necklaces, and anklets—no need to reposition your machine.

Meanwhile, the Helix’s stylus can’t be detached, making packing and setup more cumbersome.

4. Smart, User-Friendly Design

Breanna called out several Zapp Plus 2 design advantages that improve daily use:

·         Front-mounted grounding ports: Plug in two grounding tools at once—ideal for team setups or multi-artist booths.

·         Secure dial lock: Twist to set your joules, then press to lock. No accidental bumps or power shifts mid-weld.

·         Dual grounding flexibility: Two users can share one machine without swapping cables.

·         These thoughtful touches show Sunstone’s attention to how artists actually work, and why the Zapp Plus 2 is a good match.

5. Built for Real-World Events

Breanna summed it up best: “At the end of the day, I’m taking the Zapp with me to all my events. The Helix stays in my studio as backup.”

The Zapp Plus 2 delivers the speed, dependability, and ergonomic comfort professional permanent jewelry artists need—whether you’re doing one bracelet or a hundred in a day.

Watch Breanna's full comparison and then explore the Zapp Plus 2 and see why it is the number one choice among permanent jewelry artists everywhere!

If you're new to permanent jewelry and want to start your own business and build your world with Sunstone, save 3% on your purchase of a Sunstone starter kit when you use this code: BRANNAMURNOCK.