Selfshielded vs Gas shielded flux core wire?

[redsox985]

Here's two of mine. They're not fabulous, but good enough. The brown spots on the left one are condensation from them being hot.

 

[oscaryu1]

Well, the DCEN explains the kickbacks from lack of power, much heavier spatter (except at very low amperage levels), and tall thin beads.

After trying DCEN and DCEP, I have to maintain that DCEN is terrific on thicker wire when welding at lower amperages.