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 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 the necessary information about these welders.
Let’s kick things off with our reviews of the TIG welders found on the market today.
Best TIG Welders:
1. AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig Stick Welder
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 sticks 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 number of welding opportunities available, it’s the AC/DC TIG welder for the money.
Consumers enjoy the versatility allowed by 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 set up. You may want to replace the foot pedal though. It lacks ergonomics, so it takes some getting used to.
Pros
- Quality pulse feature
- Smooth stick mode
- Lightweight torch
Cons
- The foot pedal takes some getting used to
2. LOTOS TIG200ACDC 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig Welder
The Lotos TIG200 is a 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.
One of the main points consumers enjoy about the Lotos TIG200 is its 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
- User-friendly design
- A good amount of accuracy
- Quality heat control
Cons
- Dial numbers don’t always match the display
3. CTS-200, 50A Plasma Cutter, 200A TIG-Torch & Stick Arc Welder
The Amico CTS-200 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 many 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 a 93% power factor so you don’t blow through energy.
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 anything is 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
- Balanced well between accuracy and power
- Minimum energy consumption
- Good cooling mechanisms
Cons
- No pulse control
4. Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder
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 TIG welder under $410 that offers a multitude of options, a rugged build, and inverter tech for power adjustments.
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 for light-duty work.
Pros
- Designed with portability
- Dual power option
- Good digital readout system
Cons
- Difficulties welding thicker metals
5. TIG Welder, Diversion 180, 120-240VAC
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 in various working environments and conditions. This is the 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.
Consumers mention that despite its higher price point and professional-like build, there’s not much setup required so 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
- The build is durable and compact
- Energy-efficient design
- Comfortable grip
Cons
- Does poorly with thick materials
6. PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder
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.
Buyers agree that the company behind the TIG225X provides top-quality customer service in case anything goes wrong. Paired with the warranty, 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 a while to get used to the machine. It’s certainly not for beginners with minimal welding experience.
Pros
- Comfortable torch with flex head
- Great ventilation system
- Easy-to-read display
Cons
- Has a steep learning curve
7. LOTOS LTPDC2000D Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Tig Welder
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.
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 as consumers believing the welding cables are too short for comfort.
Pros
- Good consistency
- 3-in-1 design
- State-of-the-art cooling system
Cons
- Cables seem too short
8. Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 TIG Welder
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 stick modes for versatile welding jobs. The machine offers precision work, power for outdoor jobs, or penetration strength for thicker materials.
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 at 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
- Lengthy and flexible cord
- Built-in flex head on the torch
- Lays weld fast
Cons
- Poor pulse adjustments
9. PowerArc 161STH HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder
The PowerARC 161STH 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 lift start so you can choose to use it with or without a pedal. The machine may be the Everlast TIG welder as it offers a clean experience with an easy-to-adjust power range.
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 is low power consumption and great stability and pressure control. These factors have many agreeing it’s the TIG welder under $525.
There isn’t an AC output though, which means your welding capabilities are limited.
Pros
- Quick, smooth operation
- Lightweight and compact
- Straightforward digital display
Cons
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- Lacks an AC output
Factors to Consider
If you wish to place our reviews aside for a moment, there are many 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 a 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 TIG welder for aluminum since DC typically can’t manage it.
Technology and Control
A good TIG welder for novice welders features digitization and automation functions. This means 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 amperage. A machine with a 20% duty cycle is on the lower spectrum, while 60% is 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.
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 the 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.
