How could you master the complexities of tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding without the right tools? Not to worry; it’s our mission to help you find the best TIG welders to take your work to the next level.
We poured countless hours into research, honing in on high-end TIG welders that offer tremendous value for the money. With our reviews of top-rated welders, a thorough buyer’s guide, and an extensive FAQ section, you’ll discover only necessary information about these welders.
Let’s kick things off with our reviews of 10 of the best TIG welders found on the market today.
Contents
Top 3 Most Recommended TIG Welders
- Our Rating
- 200 Amp, 110/220 volts
Will do 1/4" aluminum and 3/8" mild steel
3-year warranty
Product Dimensions: 19 x 23 x 12 inches
Item Weight: 69 pounds
- Our Rating
- 225 Amp, 110/220 volts, AC/DC
Will do 1/4" aluminum and 3/8" mild steel
3-year warranty
Product Dimensions: 24 x 19 x 12 inches
Item Weight: 90 pounds
- Our Rating
- 160amp, 110/220 Dual Voltage
Duty cycle of 35%
5 Year (Parts and Labor)
Product Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 13.5 inches
Item Weight: 36.9 pounds
10 Best TIG Welders on the Market
1. AHP AlphaTIG 200X Tig/Stick Welder
- Weighing 69lbs, the AlpaTIG uses an AC/DC power source.
- It has Advanced Inverter Technology along with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). There’s even IGBT tech for reliability.
- With the TIG mode, at 200A, it has a 60% duty cycle.
- The stick mode has a 35% duty cycle at 155A. Its max output is 200A on 220V and 140A on 110V.
- There’s a single digital display, and it all comes with a 3-year warranty.
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The AHP AlphaTIG 200X is a versatile machine capable of handling welding on aluminum, stainless, mild steel, copper, and more. It has a TIG mode and stick mode, useful for experts and novice weekend warriors.
Functioning in DC/AC, there’s a range of frequency controls. It has three pulse settings, a flexible horse torch, and a metal foot pedal. There’s also a 2T/4T switch for various touch operations. With the amount of welding opportunities available, it’s the best AC/DC TIG welder for the money.
What Consumers Are Saying
Consumers enjoy the versatility allowed with the AlphaTIG 200X. The torch is lightweight as well as flexible for greater maneuverability.
It pushes out a good deal of power to handle basic jobs for professionals and hobbyists. The welding arc is smooth, and it’s quick and easy to setup. You may want to replace the foot pedal though. It lacks ergonomics, so it takes some getting used to.
Pros/Cons
- Quality pulse feature
- Smooth stick mode
- Lightweight torch
- Foot pedal takes some getting used to
2. Lotos LTPDC2000D Pilot 200A Tig Welder
- At 32lbs, the Lotos LTPDC2000D is simple to carry, more so thanks to the handle attached on the top.
- It has a dual voltage system of 110/220V with a duty cycle of 60% at max amp.
- The machine also features HF arc start hand torch control and the option to install a foot pedal.
- For display, it has a simple window to indicate the power.
- There’s a 1-year limited warranty in place for the machine as well.
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The LTPDC2000D combines TIG welding, stick and arc welding, and plasma cutting all in one powerful, compact machine. Made from robust materials, this welder can easily manage to work with rough surfaces. The TIG is DC only though, so it won’t generally weld aluminum.
What Consumers Are Saying
According to TIG welder reviews, consumers enjoy the 3-in-1 aspect of this machine. It leaves the door open to perform a multitude of jobs.
They also enjoy the lack of mess made when using this. The cooling system also works well at keeping the machine from overheating. There are some complaints about a lack of customer service as well consumers believing the welding cables are too short for comfort.
Pros/Cons
- Good consistency
- 3-in-1 design
- State-of-the art cooling system
- Cables seem too short
3. Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG Welder
- The Square Wave TIG 200 weighs about 47lbs, and it has compact dimensions so portability isn’t much of an issue.
- This has a HF start mainly for aluminum, but it adapts to whatever process you’re working with.
- It has a dual voltage of 120/230V with a 60% duty cycle at 120V and 14A.
- The interface is straightforward. There’s a small screen and LED lights to show you what mode you’re in.
- For your investment security, there’s a 3-year labor and parts warranty.
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The Square Wave TIG 200 is a premium TIG welder that maintains a user-friendly interface. Although it’s good for entry-level welders, there’s still enough power and advanced features used for professional work.
Its dual voltage allows it to plug in anywhere, and it runs on AC/DC as well as TIG and sticks modes for versatile welding jobs. The machine offers precision work, power for outdoor jobs, or penetration strength for thicker materials.
What Consumers Are Saying
Consumers praise the elastic torch head and the 12ft cord with high flexibility so you can move further from the machine.
They also enjoy the speed in which the arc between the material and tungsten forms, minimizing the risk of any contamination. Although the pulse function is appreciated too, adjustments are limited, which may lead to complications with finer works.
Pros/Cons
- Lengthy and flexible cord
- Built-in flexhead on the torch
- Lays weld fast
- Poor pulse adjustments
4. 2019 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH TIG Welder
- Weighing less than 37lbs, the PowerARC is compact for good portability.
- Without the accessories, it weighs under 20lbs.
- It has a DC power source that works on 110V and 220V.
- With an auto-regulated start, it has a duty cycle of 35% at 160A.
- Everything is managed by a small digital display window and simple press button controls.
- For warranty, it’s a 5-year for parts and labor.
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The PowerARC 160STH is a reliable machine in a small package. It has both inverter technology and IGBT Infineon Modules. You can use it in both a DC mode and a stick mode. The easy hot start cuts down on electrode sticking.
More versatility is seen in its HF start and lifts start so you can choose to use it with or without a pedal. The machine may be the best Everlast TIG welder as it offers a clean experience with an easy-to-adjust power range.
What Consumers Are Saying
Many enjoy the small build and shoulder strap for easier carrying, allowing you to take it wherever you need it.
The operation is smooth for seasoned welders to appreciate, while beginners won’t have much of a learning curve. There are low power consumption and great stability and pressure control. These factors have many agreeing it’s the best TIG welder under $500.
There isn’t an AC output though, which means your welding capabilities are limited.
Pros/Cons
- Quick, smooth operation
- Lightweight and compact
- Straightforward digital display
- Lacks an AC output
5. Lotos TIG200ACDC 200A Welder
- With an AC/DC power source, it has an input of 110V with auto dual voltage of 110/220V.
- The duty cycle is 60% at 150A on 110V and at 190A on 220V.
- This features an HF start hand torch for better control and a food pedal heat control.
- There’s a single digital display to keep track of everything.
- It weighs 58lbs, but it still has a compact build for the sake of portability.
- In the event anything happens, it comes with a 1-year limited warranty.
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The Lotos TIG200 is the best budget TIG welder that won’t sacrifice its performance. With dual voltage and TIG and stick modes, it’s versatile. This can handle mild steel, stainless, aluminum, and more. The square-inverter design grants more accuracy when wielding things like aluminum.
It has an easy arc start with stable welding, and it features a PASPT cooling system for reliability.
What Consumers Are Saying
One of the main points consumers enjoy the Lotos TIG200 is the user-friendly layout. Once you read the manual and understand the controls, it’s smooth to operate no matter your skill level. It’s flexible enough to work on various projects too.
There are complaints that the numbers on the digital display don’t line up with the control knob settings. So, you may want to fiddle around with it a bit to understand the discrepancies.
Pros/Cons
- User-friendly design
- Good amount of accuracy
- Quality heat control
- Dial numbers don’t always match display
6. Amico TIG-225 Welder
- With all accessories attached, the TIG-225 is still light in weight, weighing around 19lbs.
- There’s also a plastic handle for carrying purposes.
- For the power, it has a HF start system that guarantees 100% startup.
- It also has a dual voltage input of 115/230V and a duty cycle that sits at 60% at 220A on 110V.
- You can read the amperage via the LCD display screen.
- If something happens to the machine, you can take advantage of the 1-year warranty.
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The Amico TIG-225 is a 2-in-1 machine that employs a TIG torch with a stick welder. It features automatic optimization for issues like voltage fluctuation so you can have an easier experience.
As a good starter TIG welder, this machine handles a number of tasks with versatile metals like steel, copper, brass, bronze, etc. It has a powerful startup system, a wide amperage range from 15 to 220 for welding thin and thick metals, and compatibility with 93% power factor so you don’t blow through energy.
What Consumers Are Saying
Many appreciate that this is the cheapest TIG welder that’s straightforward and flexible. It’s simple for beginners, and you can change between TIG welding and stick and arc welding with ease. The IGBT inverter is touted too alongside the arc stability offered.
If there’s anything holding you back, it’s the lack of a pulse mechanism, but that may only affect those of you who handle larger, more professional-quality projects.
Pros/Cons
- Balanced well between accuracy and power
- Minimum energy consumption
- Good cooling mechanisms
- No pulse control
7. Forney 324 MIG/Stick/TIG 3-in-1 Welder
- This features an “easy start” mechanism with a 3-position switch so you can change the process as needed.
- There are two digital readouts so you’re always aware of the arc voltage and output current.
- For the TIG setting, it has a duty cycle of 20% at 100A for 120V.
- This doesn’t weigh too much, coming in at just over 50lbs, and there’s a handle to help you carry it.
- For warranty purposes, it uses a 5/3/1 system (Advanced Replacement).
- There’s a 5-year limited, 3-year limited, and 1-year limited. So, it’s best to address the manual and company for specifics.
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As a 3-in-1 stick welder, TIG welder, and MIG welder, this gives you everything you need and more. Even though this design gives you options, it is just a DC TIG, so aluminum welding may be out of the question. Still, it’s a great machine for beginners with its easy setup, good control, and portability.
It’s the best TIG welder under $1100 that offers a multitude of options, a rugged build, and inverter tech for power adjustments.
What Consumers Are Saying
Consumers value the general ease of both setting this up and using it. They speak highly of the portability offered as well as the 15ft power cord that gives you more breathing room to set it up. There is talk about issues handling thicker metal without damaging the material, so this may be best for light duty work.
Pros/Cons
- Designed with portability
- Dual power option
- Good digital readout system
- Difficulties welding thicker metals
8. Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG Welder
- The HF start allows this machine a non-touch arc start up for minimal contaminations.
- It features 220/230/240V input power and a duty cycle of 20% at 16V on 150A.
- There’s no digital display with this as everything’s done via the control knob and switch.
- This weighs in at 50lbs so one person can move it place to place as needed.
- For replacements or refunds, the machine has a 5/3/1 warranty system. In other words, 5-year limited, 3-year limited, and 1-year limited that follows certain criteria.
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This Hobart EZ-TIG works well for various jobs like magnesium, stainless, steel, aluminum, and more. There’s just one knob to adjust, so as far as a TIG welding machine goes, there’s not much to play around with. You can still switch from AC to DC as well for different jobs, and the amperage range is broad.
It features a fan that only runs when needed, and there’s a quality inverter power source for consistent and stable arcs.
What Consumers Are Saying
There’s plenty of consumer talk about how uncomplicated the machine is to use overall. They enjoy the fan-on-demand aspect as that can help eliminate dust and dirt sucked into the machine.
Consumers also like the stability and cleanliness of the arc as well as the versatility offered. However, considering how expensive it is, there aren’t many features to truly justify the value. Also, this may not be easy to handle for those of you lacking in welding skills.
Pros/Cons
- Fan-on-demand system
- Clean and stable arc
- Uncomplicated single knob control
- Minimal extra features
9. Miller Electric TIG Welder Diversion
- This TIG welder utilizes an AC/DC power source as well as a 120/240V input.
- There’s a clear digital display built-in too for easy reading.
- For duty cycle, it pushes out 35%.
- You’ll also notice that it weighs 50lbs, which is just enough for you to carry solo.
- It’s compact too with handles on either side for simpler carrying.
- This comes with a 3-year warranty to help give you peace of mind.
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Miller Electric created the TIG Welder Diversion with everyone in mind. It’s professional quality sold at professional value, yet has a quality user interface so novice welders can make it work.
It has an easy-to-use remote foot control, and it can be used under various working environments and conditions. This is the best Miller TIG welder machine that’s quick to set up with dual voltage capabilities and a reliable fan-on-demand feature. There’s also an air-cooled torch that extends its durability.
What Consumers Are Saying
Consumers mention that in spite of its higher price point and professional-like build, there’s not much setup required so that beginners can use this just as well.
There’s a great, comfortable grip on the unit for reduced hand fatigue, which can help with longer jobs.It doesn’t work well though with thicker materials usually above 3/16in.
Pros/Cons
- Build is durable and compact
- Energy-efficient design
- Comfortable grip
- Does poorly with thick materials
10. PRIMEWELD TIG225X Welding Machine
- This has a small display with numerous of control knobs, and it uses PWM with IGBT technology.
- For duty cycles at 120V, it has 40% for 140A on TIG and for 120A on MMA.
- Duty cycles at 240V have 40% for 225A on TIG and for 180A on MMA.
- The machine is hefty, weighing around 90lbs, and it comes with a 3-year warranty attached.
- Advanced Inverter Technology with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) Using IGBT technology
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Even though the TIG225X is a primarily TIG machine, it features a stick welding mode too. It performs well on thinner metals, aluminum, and stainless steel. This has a flex head and a CK Superflex hose for more comfort and maneuverability.
Designed for modern welders, it has AC/DC voltage and 110V and 220V outputs. There’s a wide range of cleaning controls and pulse features for AC. For precise welding and control, you can use the upgraded foot pedal.
What Consumers Are Saying
Buyers agree that the company behind the TIG225X provides top-quality customer service in case anything goes wrong. Paired with the warranty, and you may get the most out of your purchase.
They say it’s an excellent TIG welder that’s comfortable to use, and it vents out well to keep it from overheating. Even with the manual though, it takes awhile to get used to the machine. It’s certainly not for beginners with minimal welding experience.
Pros/Cons
- Comfortable torch with flex head
- Great ventilation system
- Easy-to-read display
- Has a steep learning curve
Factors to Consider When Buying a TIG Welder for Beginners
If you wish to place our reviews aside for a moment, there are a number of factors that you should consider when shopping for a quality TIG welder. These include features like the amperage range, AC/DC options, duty cycle, and more.
Amperage Range
This may be the most important aspect you consider as it determines the type of material you can work with.
Of course, there’s a chance you’ll have to get a more expensive machine with greater amperage, but you can find value-driven ones with a good range.
Consider the welding jobs you need to perform first, and from there, you can better narrow down your options.
Performance
Does your TIG welder of choice start easily? What about its stability at lower amperage? There should be good arc control and stability so that you can put out your best work, more so if you’re working on something delicate.
AC/DC
Not all TIG welding machines come with AC/DC settings, but if you find one that does, you’ll get greater versatility out of it. A machine with this output may also be the best TIG welder for aluminum since DC only typically can’t manage it.
Technology and Control
A good TIG welder for novice welders features digitization and automation functions. Meaning, they can shut down automatically in the event of high-temperatures.
There are cooling mechanisms in place too to prevent overheating. Also, technology like IGBT gives a machine more reliability and efficiency.
Take a look at the digital display as well, if there is one. This can help you keep a constant eye on your power, voltage, etc.
As far as control goes, many TIG welding machines use a foot pedal to help give you more precision. For the machine itself, some have cleaning control functions for AC settings as well as heat control. There are even ones made with pulse settings.
Ease of Use
How heavy is your TIG welder of choice? Anything too weighty may be difficult to move on your own. If you know you’ll be taking the machine elsewhere, consider something that weighs less than 80lbs. Also, examine the TIG torch and cord. Is the torch head flexible? This can provide you with various angles to work.
A good lengthy cord is useful as well in letting you move freely without sticking directly next to the machine.
The cord should have some elasticity too so you can stretch and not experience many arms and hand fatigue.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle is generally how well the machine can handle continuous work before overheating and forcing you to stop working.
The duty cycle of your TIG welder is based largely on the amperage. A machine with a 20% duty cycle is on the lower spectrum, while 60% is obviously higher.
For smaller or easier tasks, a low duty cycle is just enough. However, if you’re managing a more intense project, then you need a higher duty cycle so the machine won’t overheat too fast.
TIG Welders -Frequently Asked Questions
Who should use TIG welders?
As long as it’s needed for your job at hand, anyone from beginners to professionals can use TIG welders. Of course, some are more user-friendly and geared toward novice users, but others focus on those of you who already have a good amount of welding skills.
Can all TIG welders handle aluminum projects?
The TIG welding process will only work with aluminum if it is listed with an AC power source. This is because AC is the only thing capable of handling the sensitivity of aluminum without damaging the material.
How important is the duty cycle?
The duty cycle determines how long your machine can go continuously for around 10 minutes. It’s vital in both a professional environment and when you just need a TIG welder for home use. Your specific task will tell you how long you need the machine to run.
Do all TIG welders come with TIG and stick welding options?
Unfortunately, not all TIG welders come with versatile options built-in. In this case, if you want to stick welding, you’ll have to purchase it separately.
Summary
TIG welders are plentiful on the market today, so finding that right one isn’t the easiest task. Our top 10 reviews and buyer’s guide should provide you with enough information to help you find the welding machine for your next project.
If we had to pick a top welder, we feel the 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200X is the best choice. It has a high-quality construction with both AC/DC power sources for great versatility.
This has both an HF start and a foot pedal for better control and managing of precision-based jobs. It’s reliable with an adjustable pulse feature, and it has a high duty cycle of 60% as well as a wide amp range of 10-200A.
You can see a tremendous amount of welding opportunities all in one machine as it’s both a TIG welder and a stick welder.