If you want a high-quality weld finish, you need to invest in the right equipment. This is particularly true if your project has to stick to industry code and standards. However, trying to find the right welder can be challenging, especially if you have to adhere to a budget. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks of the best tig welders from a budget of $300-$5000.
Best TIG Welders under $300
Amico TIG-160DC
Key Features:
- TIG / STICK / ARC 2-in-1 Welder
- Dual voltage input of 110V/230V
- Can weld up to 3/8 inches of chrome, cast iron, copper, mild steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel
- Weighs 14.5 pounds
Why do We Like It?
TIG 160 DC from Amico offers you the versatility of working with various metals with a clean and smooth weld. It’s suitable for both professionals and beginners and for fabrication houses as well as for home use.
It has a lot of innovative features like advanced inverter technology, and you can also use it for MMA, Arc, and Stick welding. It’s also a powerful welder allowing you to weld ¾ inches of stainless steel. Additionally, with the TIG 160 DC, you can weld chrome, cast iron, copper, mild steel, alloy steel, and other color metals.
This unit also supports a broad amperage range of 20-160 amps. For arc welding, the best range is 20-100 amps, and you can get it from this unit. Based on the depth of welding, you can also adjust the voltage. If you require more penetration for your welding project, you can set a higher amp, and if you require a lower penetration, you can go for a lower amp range. It’s one of the most flexible TIG welders under $300.
The TIG 160 DC from Amico dimension clocks at 7.5 widths, 16.6 long, 11.8 height, and weighs just 14.5 pounds. If you’re constantly moving from one work station to another, this machine will be ideal for you. You can carry it easily. If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful welder under $300, this unit from Amico is a must-have.
Advantages
- Operates quietly
- Short cool downtime
- Compact and lightweight
- Lift start capable
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t come with a regulator
- Doesn’t feature a foot pedal
PowerARC 140STI ARC Welder (Everlast)
Key Features:
- Analog controlled IGBT inverter type
- Adaptive arc force control
- Phase frequency of 50-60Hz
- Weighs 24.8lbs
Why do We like It?
Everlast is known for offering solid welders across various price points, and this unit is another great offering. It might be a low entry TIG welder, but it packs a lot of features. It’s very simple to set up and start using and has enough power to deal with any work you might throw at it. Especially if you’re a beginner, this can be very suitable for you.
One of the best features of this unit is that it comes with a sturdy carry case and weighs just 25lbs, making it very lightweight and portable. If you’re constantly on the move, this unit is ideal for you.
Despite its compact size, it can work just as well as bigger welders. It features a capacity of 140V and can run on 120/240V. It also comes with a digital display making it easier to save your routinely used settings so that you can start a little faster next time. This unit is also very user-friendly; you don’t have to spend hours reading the instruction manual to figure out how to use this. It’s very suitable for beginners. The PowerArc 140 STI is also versatile as it possesses a dual voltage of 120 and 240V. However, you’ll receive a greater degree of efficiency when you run it at 240V.
This unit also features an auto-adaptive arc force control, which adjusts the arch length while you work, making things easier for you. With the auto-adaptive hot start, you don’t have to worry about issues with the rod sticking. The Lift-Start feature offers you extra precision, ensuring a fast start every time you use it. Despite its affordable price tag, it possesses a 35% duty cycle at 140A.
Advantages
- Portable and lightweight
- Excellent arc control
- Variable power options
- Solid duty cycle
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t have a foot pedal
- Supports only DC output
Power TIG-185 Welder (Amico)
Key Features:
- Multi-function Welder (TIG/Stick/Arc)
- Features IGBT inverter technology
- Automatic temperature control
- Weighs 19 pounds
Why do We Like It?
If you want a portable TIG welder, the Power TIG-185 Welder from Amico should be a top choice. It weighs just 19 pounds, making it easy for you to carry it around. But don’t be fooled by its lightweight, the Power TIG-185 Welder comes with a lot of advanced features. Thanks to its simple yet functional controls, this unit offers users high quality and smooth weld. It’s suitable for both beginners as well as professionals.
The Power TIG-185 Welder also comes with new features like the post-flow control and 130 amp welding capability. Thanks to the balance control and adjustable AC frequency, it can weld aluminum perfectly and enhances the welding capability on thin metals as well. Thanks to the convenient strap, it also has one of the best qualities in arc stability and control. Despite its affordable price tag, this unit has a sturdy built and numerous handy features.
It’s also suitable for a variety of metals. For steel, it can weld ¼ for a single pass and 5/8 and above for multi-pass. It can weld a maximum of 3/8 single pass for aluminum and ½ for multi-pass. For steel, the minimum welding is .007, and for aluminum, it’s .008. It’s very suitable for copper alloys, nickel, titanium, stainless steel, aluminum, and numerous other metals. If you want a TIG welder for motorsports, portable repairs, and light fabrication works, gunsmith, or for use in a ranch or farm, this TIG welder is highly recommended.
Advantages
- The over-temperature warning feature prevents damages due to the machines high voltage
- TIG mode provides life start capability and high frequency
- Gas line included
- Affordable
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t operate on AC
- Doesn’t come with a regulator or shielding gas
Best TIG Welders under $500
200 Amp Power TIG Welder (Amico)
Key Features:
- Multi-function TIG Torch/Arc/Stick welder
- Supports dual voltage input of 110/230V
- Constructed with ABS plastic and lightweight aluminum
- Weighs 25lbs
Why do We Like It?
The 200 Amp Power TIG Welder from Amico is a formidable instrument in a compact size. It’s constructed with ABS plastic and lightweight aluminum and measures 16.6x 11.8×7.5 inches. It’s quite compact and portable in comparison to other models. Even though it weighs 25lbs, most portable TIG welders weigh twice as much.
This unit comes with a start-scratch system that centers around the equipment have included TIG torch along with a 13 feet cable, which is long enough for most projects. It comes with numerous extras, including a pair of 3/32 and 1/8 electrodes, and a pair of tungsten measuring 5/64. The 200 Amp Power TIG Welder from Amico is also very easy to use. All the necessary controls are conveniently placed, making it easy to operate the unit.
It also supports a dual voltage input of 110/230V, allowing you to connect through any standard power supply and providing this welder with a complete range of control options. With the red analog dial on the system’s front, you can modulate the unit from 20-200 amps granting power and precision. It possesses sufficient power to carve through ½ cast iron, chrome, stainless steel, alloy steel, and cooper. Thanks to the heavy-duty cycle of 60%, this unit is also very time-efficient.
This machine doesn’t come with a foot pedal. Instead, this welder includes an easily-accessible button on its handle. If you’re welding in tight spaces, this feature is very beneficial as a foot pedal wouldn’t be of any help in such spaces. This product was intended to deliver power in a compact size.
Advantages
- Comes with a scratch start
- Lightweight and compact design
- Includes gas line
- Affordable
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t support AC
- Doesn’t include regulator or shielding gas
220 AMP High-Frequency TIG (Amico)
Key Features:
- Multifunction TIG/Stick/Arc welder
- Comes with LCD amperage display
- Advanced IGBT inverter technology
- Automatic temperature control
Why do We Like It?
The 220 AMP high-frequency TIG from Amico comes with advanced IGBT inverter technology. Thanks to it being inverter type, it’ll provide you with more advanced controls over the welding arc. IGBT allows you to increase travel speeds, improve arc starting, and tailor the bead profile. Thanks to this advanced technology, it works efficiently on lower thickness materials along with other benefits.
With this unit, you can operate in both 115v and 230v power source. Due to this dual voltage feature, you don’t need to waste your money buying two separate welders. What makes it even more impressive is that the 220 AMP High-Frequency TIG Welder from Amico is also multi-functional. You can use it as an Arc, Stick, and TIG (GTAW) welding allowing you to weld various metals like chrome, cast iron, bronze, brass, copper, nickel alloys, mild steel, alloy steel, weld steel, and stainless steel. It also features a high-frequency start system. This makes it easy for you to start up the arc and enhance tungsten life. This unit guarantees a 100% start-up.
This welder is also very user-friendly. The compact design and a weight of just 16lbs make it very easy for you to move it right when you’re welding. With a full amperage of 15-220amps, you can easily weld thin to thinner metals along with the heavy-duty metals. Not just that, but this welder is also compatible with a 93% power factor, which will help you save energy cost while welding. It’s a complete value for money. In this price range, you’ll be hard-pressed to find so many features.
Advantages
- Consumes less energy
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to use
- Comes with a one-year warranty
Disadvantages
- No pulse control mechanism
- Doesn’t come with a pedal controller
PowerARC 160STH (Everlast)
Key Features:
- 35% duty cycle at 160amp
- Supports foot pedal
- Features easy hot start
- Weighs 36.9 pounds
Why do We Like It?
Whether you’re a professional or beginner, this versatile and compact TIG welder from Everlast will prove to be very beneficial. Thanks to the dual voltage of 120v/220v, it’s very suitable for heavy users as well.
A big advantage of this welder is that it’s very easy to start up and can work seamlessly even on finer welding projects that demand very precise attention to detail. If you want smooth and precise welding, the 160STH from Everlast will certainly not disappoint you. Compared to other TIG welders, this is also a very lightweight unit. If you’re constantly on the move, you won’t have any problems carrying this welder.
Additionally, it also comes with AutoArc and Hotstart features, making it easy to use and very convenient. Precise attention has been given to make sure this unit can be used by both professionals as well as beginners. You can use this unit for various metals, including but not limited to magnesium, copper, and aluminum. It also comes with an impressive 35% capacity of duty cycle for heavy performance projects. For household welding, you can opt for the 120v, and for more professional work, you can make use of the 220v capability.
Another impressive feature is that the PowerARC 160 STH from Everlast can work as a TIG as well as an ARC welder. Despite its price tag, it’s impressive to see a unit with dual modes. Not just that, you can also easily switch between working on a steel plate to projects that require fine details in a few minutes.
Advantages
- Stable arc
- Features lift to start and HF options
- Capable of TIG and ARC welding
- Lightweight and portable
Disadvantages
- No AC output
- Power might not be sufficient for some
Best TIG Welders under $1000
LE31MP® MULTI-PROCESS MIG/STICK/DC TIG WELDER
Key Features:
- 60% duty cycle
- Connects to 120-Volt
- Suitable for DC TIG, stick, flux-cored, and MIG welding
- Amp range of 80-140
Why do We Like It?
If a robust and compact TIG welder is what you’re looking for, the LE31MP MIG welder from Lincoln Electric is a must-have. The first thing you notice in this welder is the large color display.
It’ll guide you throughout the entire set up process so you can start working immediately even if you have no welding experience. Even if you’re a beginner, the control and display combination will make it easy for you to figure out which setups are necessary for each project. That’s not all; this unit also comes with a lot of advanced features.
You can connect it to any 120-volt power and comes in a very portable and lightweight design. If you work on projects in various locations, you’ll have no problem carrying this unit from place to place. It’s also a very versatile unit and can work on TIG, flux-cored, spool gun, STICK, and MIG welding. There’s no need for you to spend lots of money on various devices. With a 60% duty cycle, you can use this unit for heavy-duty performance as well.
Additionally, it comes with an impressive amp range of 30-140 amps, so you can use it for various projects of different intensities. Whether you’re using it for light work or heavy-duty projects, this unit has enough power for any project. This makes it a fantastic choice for both professionals as well as beginners.
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Versatile
- Lightweight and compact design
- Great for beginners
Disadvantages
- Supports only 120V
Alpha TIG 200X TIG Welder (AHP)
Key Features:
- Comes with a foot pedal
- Includes HF start
- Advanced inverter technology
- Weighs 69 pounds
Why do We Like It?
The Alpha TIG 200x welder from AHP, works seamlessly on aluminum, thin gauge materials, stainless steel, allow, and steel as well. It can easily weld ¼ inch aluminum sheets, and with its plasma arc, it’s suitable for 3/8 inch mild-steel sheets.
It’s also suitable for 6013 and 7018 steel rods. A significant advantage of this unit is that it comes with a ‘pulse’ feature, which is entirely adjustable, and thanks to the advanced inverter technology, you can manipulate the heat output. Not just that, it’s also compatible with DC and AC modes providing you with control over a wide frequency range.
This unit comes with inverter technology and advanced features that make it suitable for heavy-duty work as well, which most professionals will find handy. But it doesn’t take that much time to start up or figure out how to use it so even beginners can make use of this unit. It’s a versatile unit that’ll certainly not disappoint you. It’s very suitable for routine welding maintenance chores, light, and medium industrial work, and you can use the ‘pulse’ feature for heavy-duty work.
It comes in a very simplistic and plain design. It’s a tall standing tungsten inert gas welder and weighing 69 pounds, it’s not the most lightweight or portable. It also supports a dual voltage of 110v or 220v, so you’ll certainly be able to use it anywhere. You don’t have to be concerned about the quality of weld either; it welds seamlessly even on 110v. For the price tag, this TIG welder certainly comes with a lot of features.
Advantages
- Versatile
- Supports dual voltage
- Great welding quality
- Affordable
Disadvantages
- Not very suitable for beginners
- Noisy
Digital TIG 200GD Welder (W Weldpro)
Key Features:
- Versatile 200 Amp AC/DC TIG welder
- Fully capable of MMA stick welding
- Comes with foot pedal
- Weighs 61 pounds
Why do We Like It?
The Digital TIG 200GD Welder from Weldpro provides you with plenty of features for a price tag under $1000. The standout features for this unit is the digital controls.
You may need to spend a little time with manual, toggle functions, and going through the menu, but once you’re familiar with it, you’ll find it very advantageous and convenient. Accurate, digital display and numeric display are accurate and a breeze to use. The digital display provides you with a completely adjustable pulse, start and end amps, AC balance, downslope, upslope, and numerous other features.
At this price range, the rocker style foot pedal and other additions like welding torches, gauges, and pipes for inert gas are wonderful additions. This unit features a 220 amp rating. You can use it with both 110 as well as 220-volt current, making it suitable for various intensity projects. Additionally, it’s compatible with both AC and DC, so you can conveniently use it for steel and aluminum without any problems. For the price tag, this unit comes with a lot of features that both professionals and beginners will find useful.
It also comes in a small and compact design, so if you work in various locations, you’ll have no problem carrying this unit from pace to place. Not just that but the manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty with this unit, which is quite impressive as most brands offer only a one year warranty. If you have any problems with the unit, you can trust Weldpro.
Advantages
- Compact and portable design
- Comes with various digital features
- Can work with AC and Dc electricity
- 2-year warranty provided
Disadvantages
- Not very suitable for beginners
- Can take time to get used to the digital features
Best TIG Welders under $2000
PowerTIG 200DV (Everlast)
Key Features:
- Supports dual voltage input of 120V/240V
- Color-coded controls
- 110/220 volts
- Weighs 79 pounds
Why do We Like It?
Everlast is a brand that’s known for providing exceptional welders, and the Everlast PowerTIG 200DV welder is another great offering from Everlast. It’s a perfect balance of performance, precision, and price.
This TIG welder provides you with a dual voltage capability of 120 and 220 volts allowing you to work on lightweight as well as heavy projects. It’s very suitable for home as well as professional use. It’s a versatile unit that’s capable of wielding aluminum and other forms of metals. You don’t have to spend money on various welders; this unit should be sufficient for most work.
It also comes with color-coded controls that are easy to understand and identify. It’s convenient for professionals and easy to use for beginners. This unit provides superior results and does an excellent job of wielding with low amperage results. The control on the right of the display helps you achieve accurate results, and at this price point, this is a wonderful addition. In comparison to other welders, this unit from Everlast provides a super smooth and stable welding arc. This gives you a huge advantage while working with thinner metals.
What more? The Everlast PowerTIG 220DV comes with an outstanding 5 years warranty. This is way ahead of what other competitors are providing. If you have any issues with the unit, the warranty provides you with a safeguard. For being under $2000, this unit is a complete value for money.
Advantages
- Easy to use
- Smooth and stable arc
- Foot pedal provides great control
- Versatile unit with DC, AC and Stick welding
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t come with a power cable
- Not very suitable for beginners
Digital TIG 200amp AC/DC Welder (Razorweld)
Key Features:
- 200amp Digital AC/DC TIG Welder
- Supports dual voltage of 110/220v
- AC frequency up to 250 Hz
- Warranty of three years
Why do We Like It?
If you’re looking for a simple yet powerful TIG welder, then the Digital TIG 200amp welder from Razorweld should be at the top of your list. It’s powerful enough for professionals and user-friendly for beginners as well.
It features a 200A DC and AC power output making it great for home as well as professional use. Whether you want to weld steel or aluminum, you can do so with this unit. You’ll also be surprised to know that it comes in a compact design and weighs 22lbs. If you work from place to place, you’ll have no problem carrying this unit.
The Digital TIG 200amp Ac/DC Welder from Razorweld comes with a dual voltage of 110v and 220v along with an adjustable amperage range of 15A-50A, making it very suitable for lightweight as well as heavy-duty work. Particularly for welding oxidized metals, this TIG welder is very efficient. Not just that, but it’s also very advantageous for DIY projects. It’s one of the rare units that can adapt to any requirements. In our testing, we also found this unit very easy to operate and start.
What’s more? It also comes with a lot of high-quality add-ons like the hose, torch, and foot pedals. It also comes with a three years warranty, so if you face any problems with the unit, Razorweld will take care of it. Thanks to the unique air channel design, heat dissipation is increased, enhancing the longevity and durability of the device. You’ll certainly be using it for a long time.
Advantages
- Intelligent digital control
- Easy to use
- Excellent at welding oxidized metals
- Compact design
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t support a broad amperage range
Square Wave 200 TIG Welder (Lincoln Electric)
Key Features:
- Stick and TIG functionality
- Supports dual voltage of 115v and 220v
- HF start on steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
- Warranty of three years
Why do We Like It?
Regardless of your skill level, the Square Wave 200 TIG Welder from Lincoln Electric is a top choice. Thanks to the simple to use interface, beginners will have no problem learning to use this device.
At the same time, it provides complexity and performance that’ll meet the requirements of most professional users. If you’re constantly moving from one job site to another, you’ll be very pleased with the compact and lightweight design. The product dimension measures 22×13.1×21 inches with a weight of 73 pounds. Additionally, this unit offers you both Stick and Tig functionality. It’s certainly a great value for the price.
With its dual voltage of 115v and 220v, you can easily connect this unit anywhere and start working. It’s suitable enough for lightweight work that demands great attention to detail and is powerful enough for heavy performance. Thanks to its wide HZ range of 60-150 Hz, you’ll have more control over your welds. This unit ensures smooth and clean welds. Various types of aluminum and metals can be welded with Stick, TIG, DC, and AC. The Super Wave 200 TIG Welder also comes with a high-quality HF start that performs excellently on steel, stainless steel, and aluminum as well.
The arc of this unit is steady, and the foot pedal is great as well. It doesn’t false start or overheats. Another impressive feature is that it’s backed by a three-year warranty by the manufacturer, which shows how much they trust the unit.
Advantages
- Simple to use and versatile
- Lightweight and portable
- Can weld at 10 amps
- Great for all skill levels
Disadvantages
- No plasma cutting
- Cannot connect a spool gun
Best TIG Welders Above $2000
Maxstar® 161 STL 120-240 V, X-Case
Key Features:
- 17 input amps
- 40% duty cycle
- 150 amps output
- Thermal overload protection
Why do We Like It?
The 120/240VAC TIG Welder from Miller Electric is a durable and heavy-duty TIG welder, and it comes in a compact and lightweight design. If you’re an intermediate or professional welder, this is a must-have.
This is everything you’ll need to weld mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and various other metals. One of its most impressive features is that it’s efficient and quiet in operation. Unlike other heavy performance TIG welders, this unit comes with an on-demand cooling fan, but you’ll not even notice that it’s there. It’s not just quiet, but it’s also efficient as you can connect it to a 220volt current.
Despite it being a heavy-duty welder, it weighs below 50 pounds making it very portable and lightweight. If you’re constantly moving from one place to another due to your job requirements, you’ll have no problem carrying this unit. It’s also very sturdy being constructed of metal composite and aluminum with excellent quality internal components. You’ll surely be using this unit for a very long time. If you’re a professional and want to invest in a durable unit, you’ll certainly not be disappointed with the 120/240VAC TIG Welder from Miller Electric.
The performance is also nothing to scoff at. This unit offers smooth and high-performance welding, whether you’re working on mild metals, stainless steel, or aluminum. You can set it up for both MIG welding as well as flux core, offering you performance as well as versatility. Thanks to its dual volt capabilities, you can start working virtually anywhere. If you’re a professional and looking for a welder under $3000, you won’t be disappointed with this machine.
Advantages
- Smooth and strong welds
- Very quiet
- Dual volts
- Minimal splatter
Disadvantages
- The ground cable is short
- Not suitable for beginners
PowerTIG 255EXT Welder (Everlast)
Key Features:
- Features digital controls
- Inverter type welder
- Can run with 120V or 240V power source
- Weighs 85 pounds
Why do We Like It?
If you want to take your welding to the next level, you must opt for the PowerTIG 255 Welder from Everlast. Everlast is a reputed brand, and this is another impeccable product from the brand. It’s a perfect balance between price and performance.
It also comes with a lot of features that differentiate it from its competitors. Weighing 85 pounds, it’s a little on the heavier side, but it includes a built-in handle so you should have no problems transporting it. It has a dimension of 24x9x17 inches, making it easier to store in small spaces. If you want to use it for outdoor projects, the handle will make it easier.
You can run the PowerTIG 255 Welder from a 120v or 240v power source. You can use it with your wall home socket or connect it to a power generator. It is also very well-built and is compatible with various tools. It comes with set up for the single-phase and wiring for the 3-phase. This unit is also rated to function with 10,000 watt-generators. It offers a 60% duty cycle at 250 amps allowing you to work continuously without any increase in downtime or temperature.
Thanks to the digital control feature, this TIG welder is also very versatile. You can control the amperage conveniently. The controls are also color-coded, making it easier to notice even when you’re wearing a helmet or mask down. This digital readout feature makes the unit very versatile and easy to use.
Advantages
- Great for welding thick metals
- Can function for long intervals
- Compatible with industrial-grade applications
- Color-coded controls
Disadvantages
- Complicated to use
- Not suitable for beginners
Diversion
180 TIG Welder (Miller Electric)
Key Features:
- 115 or 230 V Power
- TGI/GTAW AC/DC support
- Duty cycle of 35% at 125 amps
- Weighs 50 pounds
Why do We Like It?
The Diversion 180 is very easy to understand and operate and is also very powerful. It has a simple operator interface that’ll guide you through the process of setting it up.
For beginners, this feature is very beneficial. After you start up the machine, all you have to do is choose the type of material and thickness range, and you’re all set to start welding.
The digital display shows all the settings you’ve chosen, and according to the settings, the system applies the right amount of arc welding current.
This unit also comes with an ergonomic torch and a foot pedal. With the pedal, you can conveniently control the power level. The unit’s air-cooled torch is rated 150 amps, and thanks to the durable and compact design, it’s suitable for both beginners and professionals. The Diversion 180 supports dual voltages, and you can connect to either a 115V or 230V power source. You’ll be able to use this unit anywhere you want.
The Diversion 180 is also an AC/DC unit so that you can use it to weld both aluminum and steel. Due to its inverter-based power source, you’ll experience a more consistent and smoother arc in comparison to other TIG welders that utilizes a transformer-based power source. It also comes with an Auto-Post flow feature, which automatically optimizes the post-flow time on the basis of the amperage settings you’ve chosen. This prevents you from making manual adjustments.
Advantages
- Durable and ergonomic torch
- Provides remote foot control
- AC and DC capability
- Digital display
Disadvantages
- Not compatible for industrial applications
Dynasty® 210 DX 120-480 V TIG Welder (Miller electric)
Key Features:
- Can be used for both AC and DC
- Inverter TIG welder
- 120-480V input power
- Weighs 47 lbs.
Why do We Like It?
Miller is known for producing some high-performance welders, and the Dynasty 210 TIG Welder is another excellent offering. It’s a versatile unit that supports both AC and DC welding, making it compatible for various metals, including aluminum and steel, as long as the thickness is ¼ inches.
It’s also very compact and lightweight at just 47lbs making it easy for you to carry it around. If you work in different locations, this unit is not only portable but also packs a lot of power. This unit from Miller also comes with a lot of advanced features. It offers 4 different TIG waveforms that you can choose from the AC TIG frequency controls of the unit.
You can also plug the machine into a 120 volt or 480 volts according to your requirements. You can use it at home or for professional use. It also comes with a memory card expansion slot for increased flexibility and expandability. You’ll also enjoy full AC features like advanced waveforms, a wide range of balance, and frequency controls.
Thanks to its broad HZ range of 20-400, you’ll also have more control over your welds. This unit also produces clean and smooth welds regardless of whether you’re working with 120v or 480v. What’s more? This unit is also wireless remote control compatible, so you don’t have to bother with cord tangles in your work area.
Advantages
- Portable and lightweight
- Compatible with wireless remote control
- Supports AC and DC
- Great for professional use
Disadvantages
- Expensive
Tig Welder: Ultimate Buying Guide
But before you make a purchase, it’s essential that you look for certain features. Here’s a list of the important features you must look for when purchasing a Tig welder.
Protection Features and Controls
When you’re looking for a good TIG welder, thermal protection is an important feature. It’s recommended that you go for a TIG welder that features thermal and overload protection features that can protect your unit from damages and ensure that you’ll be using it for a long time. You don’t have to spend a lot to find a durable product. Make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth.
AMP Rating and Range
This is a critical feature when you’re looking for a TIG welder for your skill level, type, and situation you generally work in. You must get an ideal amp range according to your budget. For instance, if you’re continuously working with various metals, a TIG welder with a limited amperage will curtail what you can weld and affect your output. If you’re welding thinner metals, a unit with a range of 5-230A will do just fine. However, for materials like aluminum, you’ll require a higher amperage.
AC/DC Combination
A DC output unit is necessary if you’re working with steel and stainless steel. However, if you’re going to work with magnesium as well as aluminum, you’ll require an AC output. If you want a more versatile unit, you need to opt for a unit that can work with both DC and AC outputs. This makes it more versatile and doesn’t limit you from working with various metals.
You must consider the type of metals you generally work with as well as your work environment when considering whether you want an AC or DC output.
Pulsed Welding
It’s also important that you’re in control of the heat you’re applying to the metal when you’re welding. The latest TIG welders come with inverters that can produce more pulses per second. They can generate more than 5000 pulses every second. For instance, if your unit has a higher pulse rate, you’ll have a stronger weld because you’ll be more in control over the weld puddle. You’ll be able to remove less metal and, at the same time, move quickly along the metal, leading to a clean weld.
Portability
If you constantly move from one location to another due to your welding projects, it’s essential that you get a portable TIG welder. If you want to use a TIG welder as a portable unit, you can opt for two basic methods, including engine-driven welders and inverters. For instance, inverters operate at 115-230V and weigh about 10lbs. They are also generally smaller and lighter in comparison to bulkier traditional machines. However, if you work in only one station, portability might not be an important factor.
Metal Thickness
If you’re continuously working with thin metals, you must look for a unit that can operate evenly at a low amp level. For instance, TIG welders can work ideally with thin metals; however, if you’re working with metals at least ½ inches thick, stick or MIG welders will be a safe bet.
How to Choose the Best TIG Welder on Your Budget?
If you’re looking for a TIG welder under a specific budget, you must take into consideration various features. Here a guide on how you can get the most out of your budget.
Purpose of Use
Your purpose of welding will aid you in narrowing the type of TIG welder you need. Budget welders don’t come with a high amp range, so it’ll not be suitable for various metal thicknesses. If your TIG welder has a low amperage range, it’ll strictly limit the number of metals you can work on. Units with 5-230 Amp range offers you the flexibility of working on thin metals like 24-gauge stainless steel or ¼ inch thick aluminum. Go for the TIG welder with the broadest amperage range within your budget.
Ease of Use
TIG welding might require a lot of skills, but that doesn’t mean that you should opt for a TIG welder that’s complex and features a lot of buttons. Make sure that they are user friendly and have few controls that are easy to understand. This is especially true if you’re a beginner. It wouldn’t be hard for you to find a user-friendly unit within your budget.
Durability
Since you’ll probably want to spend once on a TIG welder, it’s essential that your unit is made of durable materials. Make sure that you get in return what you’re investing. If it’s made of high-grade and durable materials, your TIG welder will last for many years, and you don’t have to spend more money and time on them in the future.
However, if you’re paying a low-price tag, it’s not realistic to expect the same features as a top-end Unit. If the budget is not a constraint for you, you should get the best one possible. However, just because it’s expensive doesn’t mean it’s perfect. You must do proper research.
Quality Design
Many units possess extra features that contribute to the longevity and durability of the TIG welder. For instance, some come with cooling fans that run continuously or when the unit heats up. However, running constantly can deteriorate the unit’s life by pulling in more dirt and dust. On the other hand, thermostatically controlled fans allow your welders inside to cycle thermally between hot and cold. The more you splurge, the more features they generally possess.
However, make sure that they contain only the features that you require. The units on this list are among the best in their price range.
Price Tag
In the end, your budget might be the most significant factor for deciding which welder you should opt for. You might have ideas of what type of Tig welder you want, but many times it comes down to how much you can spend. In this case, you can choose a welder according to your budget on this list and choose from among the best. However, if you can extend your budget, you must get the best machine that your money can afford. Take into consideration the lifespan and quality based on the review before making a purchase. Don’t concentrate too much on finding the cheapest unit, thinking that you’re going to save a lot of money. In the long run, you might end up splurging a lot on repairs or buying another unit.
Final Verdict
This wraps up our list of the best TIG welder list covering price points of under $300, $500, $1000, $2000 and above. They are all great choices, and it’s important to remember that a single welder cannot possess all the features. It comes down to your requirements. In our list, the Amico TIG-160DC is the winner for the under $300, Thanks to its functionality and great value for money. For the under $500, we love the PowerARC 160STH from Everlast due to its great welding features and portability.
If you’re looking for a TIG welder under $1000, you won’t be disappointed with the LE31MP MIG Welder from Lincoln electric. It’s a truly versatile unit. For under $2000, the Digital TIG 200amp AC/DC Welder from Razorweld is easy to use with intelligent digital controls. If your budget is above $2000, you must go for the Diversion
Also, you can check Best MIG welder under $1000 or Best Multi-Process Welders
