TIG welders are great if you require an electric welder. They have the ability to weld various types of metals and are less risky than gas welders. However, just like any other welding product, you have to deliberate on multiple aspects before buying one, including their power consumption, duty cycle, and more. You can read my ultimate TIG welder buying guide for the most important considerations.
Today, I will be sharing with you the best TIG welding machines available in the market for the current year. So, if it is the best TIG welder you seek then sure to read this article until the end for helpful advice and some great options:
Table of Contents
Best TIG Welders – Buyer’s Guide
TIG welder can be the perfect choice for you if you are looking for an electric welder. However, you cannot buy the best TIG welder based solely on the price. You must purchase something that matches your needs and preferences.
You should be mindful of the fact that TIG welders can consume high levels of power. Furthermore, there are other factors you should look at when searching for the right TIG welder. Following are my top considerations that you should remember during your search:
1. TIG Welders and MIG Welders Differences
If you a new welder or are inexperienced about buying welders, then it is easy to confuse TIG and MIG welders.
Understandably, it can be easy for the untrained eye to mix up the two since they use electrical parts for shaping and cutting metal. Additionally, both TIG and MIG minimize the risk of corrosion and rust.
Following are some of the most apparent differences between the two types:
Work Process
MIG stands for “Metal Inert Gas”, these welders operate when metal is fed metal into a weld. The wire serves as a consumable filler material that attaches the metals, which is referred to as Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW.)
Whereas TIG stands for “Tungsten Inert Gas”. TIG welders have non-consumable electrodes that work on electric current for welding two metals. The TIG welders don’t necessarily use filler metals. The TIG welding process is referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding.
Working With Thick Metals
The MIG Welders require consumable metal fillers for welding, which cuts down the time needed to weld thicker metals. On the contrary, the lack of filler material in TIG welders limits their heat production, which means they need more time to weld thick metals. Therefore, TIG welders are more suitable for thinner metals, and MIG is ideal for thicker ones.
Ease of Use
Comparatively, many welders find MIG welder to be much easier to use, which makes them more suitable for beginners and inexperienced welders. Welders need more skill and higher control over the equipment for TIG welding.
To use TIG welders to their highest potential, a welder must have control over the process including time, pressure, and the electric current. It is now common for welders to use welder machines alongside computer-controlled machines for better results.
Irrespective of the type of machine you use, choosing the right one for your needs and setting it to the correct settings is critical for ensuring that they are functioning optimally and reducing mistakes.
2. Duty Cycle
The welder’s ability to work continuously is signified by its duty cycle or DC. This value is usually presented on the welder as a ratio or percentage of the maximum active time.
Welders with a high DC ratio are suitable for commercial and dense metal operations. Such machines take a shorter time to cool down, which increases your ability to work continuously. High-quality TIG welders made for commercial use are usually more expensive and can operate for up to 6 minutes at a time with a 60% duty cycle.
However, if you need a TIG welder for less intensive tasks, home projects, or hobbies, you can go for a low duty cycle welder. Machines with a DC of 20% are cheaper and more suitable for lighter tasks and soft metals.
You should be mindful that a power surge can have a negative impact on DC because it can overwork the cooling mechanism.
3. Input Power
Along with the duty cycle of the welder, you will also have to consider the input power or AMP rating because it will give you an idea of the type of tasks the machine is capable of. For commercial use and heavy-duty operations, you will need a high input power welder.
Nearly all of the welder available on the market will have automatic adjust-ability between DC and AC. However, you should know the power phases you require to avoid any issue. Remember that all TIG welders work at a specific range.
Consider the gauge and thickness of the metals you will be working with because that will help you determine the input power you will require for your machine. Aluminum and steel are commonly used in TIG welding.
To get the best value for your money, my suggestion is that you buy a high input machine that will allow you to work with all gauges and thickness of metal. A direct current device is suitable for hard metals. With a low input power alternate current machine, you will be able to work with metals with a low density only such as magnesium.
4. Automation And Digitization
Digitization and automation can increase the convenience and ease of performing your welding task. Highly practical features like automatic shutdown and high-temperature balance and shutdown will make your job less stressful.
Such features will decrease the damage to your machine and lower the amount of maintenance. These features are great for inexperienced welders. However, they might not be useful for experienced welders.
Digitized features allow you to stick to the recommended maximum power output, voltage, etc., so you will not have to worry about the machine overheating.
5. Weight
Welders due to their easy portability, size, and the weight mostly prefer light machines; these should also be an essential consideration for you when choosing the best TIG welder.
If you’re going to work at one place and will bring projects to your bench, then you can select a heavyweight machine. However, if you need to go to the projects and easy portability is important, then lightweight TIC welders are necessary.
Most of the weight of a TIC welder is focused on the transformer. Therefore, learn about the weight of the transformer when considering a welder. The durability of the handles is another critical factor. Look for a machine that won’t break easily with repeated lifting.
10 Best TIG Welders – Product Reviews
1. AHP AlphaTIG 200X TIG Welder – Best TIG Welder
AHP AlphaTIG 200X is amongst the most popularly used and recommended welding machines. What makes AHP AlphaTIG 200X the best TIG welder is its fantastic range of features and impeccably accurate welding performance.
AHP AlphaTIG 200X’s Advanced Inverter Technology combined with Pulse Width Modulation, makes you second guess its affordable price. This welder comes with a foot pedal that efficiently helps you manage the intensity of the arc produced.
AHP AlphaTIG 200X performs exceptionally well on both 110V and 220V and offers both AC/DC options. All-in-all this is the best TIG welder to weld any type of material, including ¼” Aluminum or 24-gauge Steel.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC DC
- Input Voltage: 110v – 220v
- Amperage Range: 10-200 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG/Stick Welder with PULSE
- Pulse Frequency: .5-200 AMP
- Duty Circle: 60%
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Pulse arc capabilities
- Includes finger switch and foot pedal
- AC/DC compatibility
- Digital display option
- 3 Years Warranty
Cons
- Knobs and background markings are not perfectly aligned
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2. Lotos TIG200ACDC TIG Welder – Best Affordable TIG Welding Machine
Lotos TIG200ACDC is the best TIG welder when it comes to versatility and affordable price. I have used this welder for months, and I have never faced a single issue. Although, it does require some time and practice (especially for beginners) to get the hang of the Transition from TIG to Stick welding, which is the biggest con of this TIG welder.
Lotos TIG200ACDC can efficiently weld both thin and thick gauge metals, including stainless steel and aluminum. The high-frequency hand torch control, along with a foot pedal, allows exceptional accuracy and offers remarkable heat control.
The PAPST Advanced Cooling System makes Lotos TIG200ACDC the best welder when it comes to cool down duration. Compared to several of my high-end TIG welders, Lotos cools down much faster and allows great welding time.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC (Square Wave) & DC
- Input Voltage: 110v – 220v
- Amperage Range: 10-200 A
- Welding Types: TIG Welder with DC Stick/Arc Welder
- Duty Circle: 60%
Pros
- 3/8″ Aluminum Welding
- 30-day refund and 1-year warranty
- Many welder settings
- PAPST Advanced Cooling System
- Foot Pedal and Argon Regulator included
Cons
- No pulse arc capabilities
- It needs to be turned off to switch from TIG to stick welding.
3. Miller Electric Maxstar 150 STL TIG Welder – Best TIG Welder For Professionals
If you are a professional or you require a top-of-the-line welder, and you are willing to invest in a welder that will last you years to come! Maxstar 150 STL TIG Welder is always on the top of my list of recommendations! It offers a fantastic range of features and impeccable performance.
Although Miller Electric Maxstar is not the most affordable welder machine on this list. However, Miller Electric Maxstar comes tools and features like a Weldcraft™ A-150 12-foot TIG torch that most budget-friendly welding machines do not offer.
Don’t let the compact size of this best TIG welder fool you because its heavy-duty yet compact case fits everything safely inside for maximum protection and ease of use.
Key Features
- Power Source: DC
- Voltage: 115/230 VAC
- Amperage Range: 20-100 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG and Stick Welder
- Duty Circle: 5-150AMP @ 30% duty TIG / 20-100AMP @ 35% duty Stick on 115v
Pros
- Durable built-quality
- A reliable option for beginners
- Excellent performance
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons
- A pricy option
- Limited information available online
4. Everlast PowerTIG 185DV Welder
Everlast PowerTIG 185 TIG Welder was hands down the best TIG welder that I used in 2019. It comes with a range of features that most 2020 models of welding machines do not offer.
If you require a TIG welder that produces a stable, smooth arc for welding both thick and thin gauge materials, Everlast PowerTIG 185 TIG Welder offers an impressive performance.
The only con of this welding machine is that it does not come with a foot pedal. Although it includes a finger switch, you cannot produce the same level of accuracy and heat control with the finger switch as a foot pedal.
You can additionally buy the trusted Everlast foot-pedal; however, it will further increase that may be a huge downer for budget buyers.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC DC
- Input Voltage: 110v – 220v
- Amperage Range: 185AMP
- Welding Types: TIG/Stick Welder
- Duty Circle: 185AMP @ 35% duty cycle on 220v and 105AMP @ 35% duty on 110v
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Works well with aluminum welding
- Finger switch included
- Includes several easy to use features
- Air-cooled TIG torch
- Argon Regulator
- Smooth, stable arc in DC or AC
Cons
- Foot pedal not included
5. Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD Welder – Best TIG Welder Under $800
2020 Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD Welder is the best TIG welder under $800 when you do the price vs feature comparison. Weldpro Digital 200GD is packed with a range of features that are usually available in more expensive welder machines.
Weldpro Digital 200GD Welder supports both AC and DC power input with the amperage range of up to 200Amps that allows you to weld both thick and thin gauge materials quickly and accurately.
It totally is a top TIG welder for its premium performance, durable built-quality, and impressively affordable price. 2020 Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD is my go-to welding machine for both home welding tasks as well for other professional work.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC/DC Pulse
- Input Voltage: 110v – 220v
- Amperage Range: 200 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG and MMA Stick Welder
- Duty Circle: 60% for AC TIG / 40% for DC TIG
Pros
- Excellent range of TIG welding features
- Great value for money
- Strong arc
- Foot pedal included
- Exceptional build quality
Cons
- Overheating and noise issues
6. Amico TIG-225 Welder – Best Affordable TIG Welder
If you are a newbie at welding and you want the best TIG welder at an affordable price, there cannot be a better option for you than my all-time trusted Amico TIG-225 Welder.
I have used this TIG welder for several months now, and I have not faced any issues with this pocket-friendly beast! Amico TIG-225 Welder is also one of the most compact-sized yet feature-packed welders that I have ever used. The unit is lightweight and easy to set up, so it is an outstanding option for hobbyists and professionals that are always on the go.
Although, the overall performance of this high-rated TIG welder is impressive; however, I wouldn’t compare it to high-end TIG welders or recommend it for thin gauge material welding.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC DC
- Input Voltage: 115v – 230v
- Amperage Range: 15-220 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG torch with Stick/Arc welder
- Duty Circle: 60% at 220A
Pros
- Easy to set up and operate
- LCD amperage display
- Advanced IGBT inverter technology
- Reliable Arc stability
- Over-current and overload protection
- Voltage fluctuation
- Minimal to zero splatter
Cons
- No foot pedal or finger switch included
7. Forney 324 3-in-1 Welder – Multi-purpose TIG Welder
If you require the best TIG welder that supports MIG and stick welding, then I highly recommend Forney 324 3-in-one welder. Not only is Forney 324 the best TIG welder for professionals, but its ease of use makes it the best option for beginners as well.
This all-in-one welder operates at both 120V and 230V and supports both Constant Voltage (CV) and Constant Current (CC) modes. The digital display adds to the ease of use of this 3-in-one best TIG welder.
Forney also offers an impressive up to 5 years parts and labor or full replacement warranty. All-in-all Forney 324 3-in-1 is the best TIG welder if you do a price vs feature comparison.
Key Features
- Power Source: DC
- Input Voltage: 120v – 230v
- Amperage Range: 10-190 AMP
- Welding Types: MIG/Stick/TIG
- Duty Circle: 60%
Pros
- 3-in-one MIG/Stick/TIG welder
- Simple to set up and use
- Durable built quality
- Includes a digital display
- Up to 5-year warranty
Cons
- Complains about overheating
8. Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG Welder – Beginner Friendly TIG Welder
This welder is one of the best TIG welders for those who don’t want something too complicated to use.
Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG Welder is suitable for those who are still learning the techniques of TIG welding. I was impressed by how easy to use the interface of this welder is, and you simply have to turn it on, choose the material, and the range according to the thickness to start welding.
The Fan on Demand function allows you to have complete control when the fan operates, thus reducing the dust and debris contamination. It has the capability of welding 22 gauges of up to 3/16″ thickness. It can work with AC or DC input. The non-contact arc HF start of the welder reduces the contamination of various materials, including tungsten.
The more extensive operating range of this TIG welder thanks to its Infinite Amperage Control impressed me. The inverter-based design allows for a compact and lightweight design with only 50 lbs weight and easy to carry handles.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC and DC
- Input Voltage: 230v
- Amperage Range: 165 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG welder
Pros
- Auto-post flow
- Infinite amperage control allows consistent weld
- High frequency starts
- AC/DC power source
- Inverter based design
Cons
- Expensive for new welders and home users.
9. Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 – Best TIG Welder For The Money
Lincoln Electric K5126-1 Square Wave TIG 200 TIG Welder brings fantastic value for money with its affordable price. Arguably the best TIG welder in its price range, the Electric Square Wave TIG 200 is backed by the expertise and experience of a leading manufacturer and supplier of welders.
Suitable for all skill levels, thanks to its simple user interface. Experienced welders will be pleased by the power and complexity of this machine. I found the lightweight, compact design of the Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 to be portable and easy to move from one job to the next.
This welder comes with both TIG and Stick welding functionality and a 3-year warranty that protects your investment.
Key Features
- Power Source: AC and DC
- Input Voltage: 115v – 230v
- Amperage Range: 125 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG/Stick Welder
Pros
- Easy to use and versatile
- Suitable for all skill levels even the beginners
- Ten amps of power input
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Changeable pulse per second
- Fantastic value for the price
Cons
- Spool gun cannot be attached
- No pre and post gas flow settings
- Lacks plasma cutting functionality
10. Mophorn 160 Amp TIG Welder
Mophorn 160 Amp TIG Welder is a less popularly talked about/recommended TIG welder machines. Although it does offer a wide range of features at an affordable price. However, after using this TIG welder for a few months, I did find a few cons in the Mophorn 160 Amp TIG Welder, or else it would have topped my favorites’ list.
All-in-all, the ease of use, built-quality, and the performance of this best TIG, is respectable; however, its performance struggles on thick materials and aluminum.
If you require the best TIG welder for professional use only; I wouldn’t recommend this welder to you. However, if you are a beginner and you want an easy to use and simple to set up 110v – 220v and 20-160 AMP DC welder with up to 60% duty circle and minimal splash; then you should definitely opt for Mophorn 160 Amp TIG Welder.
Key Features
- Power Source: DC
- Input Voltage: 110v – 220v
- Amperage Range: 20-160 AMP
- Welding Types: TIG/ARC Welder
- Duty Circle: 60%
Pros
- Best value for your money
- TIG and Stick welding
- Cooling system built-in
- Smooth welds
Cons
- Only DC support makes welding Aluminum difficult.
Best TIG Welders – Comparison Table
| Welding Machines | Dimensions (inches) | Weight | Power Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| AHP AlphaTIG 200X | 19 x 23 x 12 | 69 lbs. | AC DC with Pulse |
| Lotos TIG200ACDC TIG | 28 x 13 x 17 | 58 lbs. | AC (Square Wave) & DC |
| Miller Electric Maxstar 150 STL TIG | 13.2 x 5.5 x 9 | 40.4 lbs. | DC |
| 2019 Everlast PowerTIG | 24 x 9 x 17 | 40 lbs. | AC DC |
| 2020 Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD | NA | NA | AC DC |
| Amico TIG-225 | 16 x 6.5 x 12 | 30 lbs. | AC DC |
| Forney 324 3-in-1 | 20.2 x 10.2 x 16 | 51.4 lbs. | DC |
| Hobart EZ-TIG | 26.8 x 13.7 x 20.8 | 60 lbs. | AC DC |
| Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 | 22 x 13.1 x 21 | 73 lbs. | AC DC |
| Mophorn 160 Amp TIG | 18 x 14 x 10 | 21.1 lbs | DC |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. TIG vs MIG welding, Which is better than the other?
MIG welders are more commonly used because the parts are readily available and they are best suited for thicket sheets of metal and quick welding tasks. Whereas, TIG welders can do wonders and work neatly while joining smaller pieces of metals. When it comes to exceptional quality welding, I highly recommend you to invest in a TIG welder.
2. Is TIG and MIG welding procedure the same?
If your compare TIG and MIG welding, without a single doubt, TIG produces superior quality results, but TIG welding is slower and has a great learning curve. On the other hand, MIG welding is faster and easier to learn, but it is not suitable for thin materials. TIG welding also allows a cleaner finish than MIG welding as TIG welding doesn’t splatter.
3. Can I use my welder for welding aluminum?
Aluminum is a more sensitive material than steel. Hence, you can use your welder to weld aluminum only if your welder supports both DC/AC on 110V/220V voltage.
4. Are all welders compatible with both stick and TIG welding?
Most welders are usually compatible with both TIG and stick welding. However, not all welders provide the full package; hence, you may have to buy the stick separately.
5. What are the top benefits of TIG welding?
Following are the top 3 benefits of TIG Welding:
- A TIG welder can efficiently weld a wide variety of metals.
- TIG welds are cleaner and more durable than other welds.
- You do not have to worry about sparks, spatter, slag, smoke, and fumes with TIG welding.
6. Which gas works best for TIG welding?
Argon is commonly used and recommended for TIG welding. Alternatively, you can also use Helium for higher speed and greater penetration.
Final Verdict
There you have it! Now you have my simplified guide to buying the best TIG welder, and a list of 10 best TIG welders that you can trust for both professional and home use.
Although there is a massive range of welders available in the market. However, the 202 Lotos TIG200ACDC TIG Welder will remain to be my top favorite and highly recommended best TIG welder of all time!
Do you have a favorite TIG welder? Please share its best features in the comments section.
