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Tungsten Inert Gas welding refers to the use of non-consumable tungsten electrodes to deliver current to the welding arc. The challenging factor about this type of welding is engagement. It requires you to use both hands while operating. However, it’s worth the effort because the results are excellent – exceptional and attractive welds. In most cases, argon is used in the cooling system. Helium was used in the early years, earning the title heli-arc welding.
For the best TIG welder on the market for your home or commercial use, it’s essential to understand the fundamentals of the industry. You’ll require a TIG welder for your business, car, or simple home repairs. The purpose of the welder determines the factors you will need to consider before buying one. You may wish to also invest in a bench vise for your welding needs.
Through watching various videos, reading reliable reviews, and consulting authoritative content, this article will give you a solution to your dilemma when buying a TIG welder. Read to the end, and you’ll walk to your vendor having already made a decision of what welder you want. Read on for the full TIG Welder Reviews and Buying Guide!
View the Best Tig Welder for the Money, Below
Lincoln Electric Precision TIG 225 K2535-2
Lincoln Electric K5126-1 Square Wave TIG 200
Miller Electric TIG Diversion 180
A Great Tig Welding Machine for Both Amateurs and Professional Welders
It's easy to configure the settings of this tig welder to suit your needs. If you're an amateur or an expert welding machine, then the AHP AphaTIG 200DX is meant for you!
This welding machine comes in 110V and 220V phases. Depending on the material and duty cycle, you can set the gauges accordingly. High-density material and a long duty cycle require a high voltage.
The AHP AphaTIG 200DX offers a 60% cycle at 200V, reliable for use in heavy-duty welds. However, the duty cycle is expected to be higher at a lower amperage range. Consequently, you'll have high productivity when using this welding machine.
The AphaTIG 200DX welder has a mass of 69 pounds. So it's ideal for working from a place where you don't have to move it about. The size of the machine is 19″ by 23″ by 12″. The relatively big size helps the welder accommodate advanced features like the duty cycle and power input.
You can work with presets if you know the voltage and the balance needed to perform your tasks.
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Fit for both starters and experts
High productivity, even at low amperage range
Cheaper parts than other TIG welders
2. Lincoln Electric Precision TIG 225 K2535-2
Best Tig Welder For Fixed Position Operations
This tig welder is efficient in both TIG and stick welding. This Lincoln welder has a long life - even your grandchildren can inherit it with proper care and maintenance! The machine has a complete duty cycle with an amperage of less than 23.4V. You will need a 50-amperes breaker for optimum results, but it's not essential.
The model is suitable for almost every material. From the light metals like magnesium and iron to the sensitive aluminum and the thick stainless steel, you will have an easy time with a Lincoln Electric Precision TIG 225. It comes with a durable and sturdy foot pedal that makes your operation easy.
This Lincoln welder has adjustable voltage with a maximum of 230V. It has a low amp starting, making it ideal for light tasks. However, if you want to use the Lincoln welder for heavy-duty performance, you can release the full voltage throttle for optimum results and efficiency.
You can use the TIG welder continuously at 90 amperes because it has a 100% duty cycle. The rate reduces with increased input power for both direct and alternative current.
The Lincoln welder is considerably heavy at 240lbs, which works perfectly for fixed position operations. Its size is 20.7″ by 14.5″ by 25.6″. This is relatively large but understandable to accommodate the weight.
It has an internal 3-way polarity selector that makes operations easy and fast. You won't have to keep switching your leads, which can become tedious.
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Complete duty cycle at low voltage
Features TIG stick for stick welding capabilities
Better for fixed position operations - not a very portable TIG welding machine
3. EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH
Best Tig Welder for Portability
This lightweight machine offers you perfection with the option of 120 and 240V input. The welder is not fit for aluminum welding because of its light-duty modification. It uses IGBT technology which means that it has a small transformer. The package has other accompaniments like an electrode holder, TIG torch, work ground clamp, and an argon regulator. The auto-regulated arc force control prevents excessive electrode sticking, giving you a clean and smooth weld. The machine is relatively cheap, with the option of free shipping within the US.
Its adapter allows you to use two phases of input power: 120V and 240V. So you can comfortably select the low voltage for a long duty cycle and the higher voltage for considerably dense or thick metals.
The welder is a low-power consumer with a low duty cycle of 35%. Therefore, this machine will work for you if you need power conservation.
This product is among the smallest and lightest of its kind. It weighs 39.6 pounds only and comes with an easy-to-carry shoulder strap. This feature makes EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH easily portable, measuring 20x12.5x13.5 inches.
Digital Display and Automation
The readings are on a digital display, giving you a precise current setting option. The DINSE style connectors are also a scorecard because they enhance secure connection.
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Dual input power option
Not fit for aluminum welding
4. Lincoln Electric K5126-1 Square Wave TIG 200
A Simple AC DC Tig Welder for All Experience Levels
The machine has advanced features but does not compromise Lincoln's quality and easy-to-use characteristics. You can use TIG and stick from a single power source, making the welder an efficient dual-purpose machine. The  AC option is great for simple welding, while heavy tasks require adjustment to the DC option. Like the previous welder, the Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 is a double outlet with 120V and 240V output. It's ideal for aluminum welding. The machine also takes care of both amateurs and experts in the industry.
The AC DC TIG welder is dual voltage with 120V and 240V options. Depending on material density and thickness, you should adjust accordingly for a precise and smooth weld.
The 120V phase supports a 25% duty cycle for TIG and 20% for stick at 125A and 75A. For the same duty cycle, you should adjust your amperage to 200A and 170A for TIG and stick uses.
This AC DC TIG welding machine weighs 46.50 pounds. The size of the welder is 20x20x13 inches. The weight and size make the device easily portable. It's a small tungsten welder that will serve enormous tasks.
Digital Display and Automation
The welder has advanced features like an automatic gas shutoff. This aspect makes the machine easy to use.
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Has no expert level requirement
Doubles as a stick welding machine
Supports AC welding - AC DC TIG
5. Lotos Technology TIG200
Best Cheap TIG Welder for a Commercial and Hobby Welder
Make quick work of your welding projects with this AC and DC TIG. It offers you the diversity of dual-purpose and comes with a double voltage option to fit varying needs. Use both AC and DC welding processes. The welder is also accurate because it offers an array of controls and settings that are ideal for certain situations.
If you want a budget TIG welder for commercial use or hobby activities, this TIG welder will suit your needs. It has excellent welding capabilities. It comes in a complete package that can work immediately after delivery. It's best suited for welding aluminum, mild steel, stainless steel, and other metallic materials because of its high power efficiency - usually 80%. It's suitable for almost any welding job.
This AC DC TIG welder has a 120V and 240V power input, depending on the task at hand. Therefore, you can work on heavy and light operations with high efficiency. You can also work on both thicker and thinner metals, making this one of the best TIG welders for all-around use. It makes quick work of welding aluminum. The device is good for both direct and alternative currents. You should use DC for heavy duties with a larger amperage range, like welding thick metals.
The AC DC TIG machine has no issues with continuous welding. It gives you a 2-4 minutes rest within 10 minutes. The 60% duty cycle is ideal for most tasks, which makes it a great budget TIG welder. You don't have to worry about distractive power breakage - get quality welds in no time.
This TIG welding machine weighs 58.0 pounds. Therefore, it's easily portable because it has a durable and easy-to-carry handle that supports the weight. The dimensions of the welder are 28 by 13 by 17 inches. The size is considerate compared to the power output and its numerous features.
Digital Display and Automation
The dual voltage is automatic; you don't need a switch to shift from one to another. Therefore, the welder can run directly on 110V or 220V power using a pigtail.
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AC and DC TIG
Dual purpose and voltage
A wide variety of purpose
A budget TIG welder
Very accurate aluminum welding
Cheaper parts than other models
6. Everlast PowerTIG 250EX
Best TIG Welder for Lighter Tasks
This product comes with pre and post-flow controls for optimum shielding gas protection. The welder has a low TIG start of 5 amps, ideal for light tasks. The low start enables the welder to achieve a complete duty cycle on less power than 200A. To reduce your repair costs, the manufacturer provides an improved start circuit. If you want to weld your thin metal or low-density metals, the PowerTIG 250EX is ideal for your needs. The low amp start will produce a smooth and quality weld to maintain the structure of your material. It does well on both aluminum and steel materials.
This TIG welding machine has an input power of 250V, making it reliable for heavy duties. It allows you to opt for alternative or direct current.
The duty cycle is dependent on amperage. At 250A, the welder supports a 40% cycle, but while at a lower amperage, the duty cycle can hit 100%. If you are want to work on thin materials continuously, this feature will come in handy.
The IGBT inverter technology ensures the transformer is small. Consequently, you have a small welder with heavy-duty capability. The PowerTIG 250EX weighs 65 pounds only. The low weight increases the portability of the device. In addition, the size of the TIG welder is 24 by nine by 17 inches which cap up the portability. Overall, these measurements make it a good TIG welder for a range of welding applications.
Digital Display and Automation
It has an arc force control that reduces spattering and improves the short arc performance. The TIG welder has a digital display that is essential for reading voltage.
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Value for money through high performance
Perfect results on thin metals
Better for lighter tasks
7. Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG
Easiest Tig Welder to Control
This AC DC tig welder has the simplest interface, and the machine only needs a little setup to function. The product has a fan that keeps away any dust or debris. The fan also moderates the internal temperature of the machine. The tool has an infinite amperage regulation which gives you a perfect operation on any material. The Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG has an inverter-based power source for consistent welding, which helps you use the machine at low amperage. It's one of the best TIG welders for efficiency. The welder has an automatic post flow that aids in shielding without any adjustments.
This AC DC TIG welder uses 230V power input. It can be used under a direct or alternative current. Control of power is easy because the welder has a single control knob. The AC tig is mostly used to weld aluminum, while the DC is preferred for stainless steel.
This is a reliable TIG welder with a duty cycle of 20% at 165A. The performance is ideal for most ordinary tasks and common metals.
The EZ TIG machine is relatively light at 60lbs or 23kgs. It is easily movable because of the dual handles that distribute the weight evenly. This tig welder can be carried by two people, making it easy to move. The welder measures 13.7 by 26.8 by 20.8 inches.
Digital Display and Automation
The EZ TIG machine has an automatic high-temperature shutdown and post flow for optimum shielding. You're also provided with remote amperage control for precise and reliable readings.
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Dual handles for portability
Remote control with hand option control
Fan option for extra maintenance - automatic temperature control
Weld aluminum with ease
Not a good TIG welding machine for very heavy-duty tasks
8. Miller Electric TIG Diversion 180
Best TIG Welding Machine for Commercial Use
You can use this heavy-duty tig welder for commercial activities or industrial purposes. The Miller welder doesn't offer a stick welding function due to its hardwired TIG torch. The product is new in the market, but Miller never fails in delivering quality and durable machines. The tig welding machine is made of ceramic and steel, giving it extra durability.
The Miller welder is perfect for welding steel and aluminum, delivering smooth and clean welds. It has an on-demand fan that helps to keep off any dirt that would otherwise interfere with the internal systems. The dual voltage aspect also gives you the option to operate on light and heavy tasks.
The Miller welder operates under 120 and 240 voltages. You can use direct or alternative current depending on the intensity of your operations. The device has a high processing input, making it ideal for industrial use.
It has a duty cycle of 35%. The period is reasonable considering its output power.
Like its predecessor, the Miller welder is double-handled. The Miller Electric TIG Diversion 180 also weighs 50lbs. Two people can easily carry the device on each side. The dimensions of the tungsten weld are 26.5 by 13.5 by 21.5 inches.
Digital Display and Automation
The Miller tig welder has a remote control system and a digital display for reading the power input and output.
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Double handles to distribute the weight
Remote foot pedal control
Will weld steel and aluminum
Doesn't offer a stick welding function
A TIG and MIG Welder for Accurate Results
The Forney is a multi-process TIG welder for beginners and experts that will offer you TIG, stick, MIG welders, and flux-cored options. Though the tungsten comes as a different package, you will operate on diverse materials that need varying processes. The shift from one welding process to another (for example, to the MIG welding process) is simple, making the machine ideal for beginners and experts.
The tool will help you do your light home or marine fabrication without any mishap. The manufacturer readily provides the MIG welders and stick options in the package. The TIG welding process is also highly compatible with the welder. Therefore, you won't have to worry if you want to optimize the functions of the welder.
The machine is dual voltage with 120V and 230V options. It has a maximum output of 190 amps which can handle most tasks and materials in your home or sea vessels. It supports both DC and CV power input options.
The machine has a 60% duty cycle at 60A. This will help you work continuously on your tasks at home or on the seashore, repairing a wrecked yacht. Avoid overworking the welder on extreme projects because this will significantly lower the duty cycle.
The Forney weighs 43lbs. The weight is distributed across the modified handle for easy lifting.
Digital Display and Automation
The welder displays the output current and actual arc voltage on its dual channel. The readings help you in setting the exact measurements for the multiple processes.
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Reliable duty cycle in low amperage
Better for lightweight tasks
10. LONGEVITY Tigweld 200SX
A Reliable TIG Welding Machine
This TIG welder has a high-frequency start and a sturdy foot pedal for optimum control. The welder supports 110V and 220V phases. It's ideal for 6013, 7018, and other stick weld electrodes. It has variable amps and post-flow settings that allow welding arc control. It has a switch that helps you adjust from stick to TIG within a flip. It has automatic adjustability on detection of 120 or 220V. The machine supports direct current only, thus not ideal for aluminum welds. It has an excellent welding control enhanced by pre-flow, post-flow, and cleansing functions.
The welder supports both 120V and 220V options. It allows you to use direct current for your operations.
The duty cycle is dependent on the amperage. You should perform your tasks with a long duty cycle at low amperage for your light work, like home use.
At 37.9 pounds, this is one of the lightest welders in the market. You can easily carry the machine from one place to another. The dimensions of the welder are 15 by 7 by 13 inches. The lightweight and small size is contributed by the inverter technology used to make the transformer.
Digital Display and Automation
The machine automatically detects 120V or 220V phases. Therefore, you don't have to keep adjusting the voltage to fit your specifications.
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Easy to control power arc.
Efficient in stipulated tasks.
Not an ideal TIG welder for aluminum welds
What to Look for When Buying a Tig Welder
Welding equipment machines are high-power consumers. Whether you’re an amateur or a guru in the field, you need something that will serve your purpose excellently. In most cases, buyers only consider the factors they understand. You will encounter a customer comparing prices without considering the power output and its ability to handle the purpose. For those who are impressed by appearance, the color or design of the welder may play a critical role in purchase decisions.
This approach hardly works. The above factors barely play a role in landing you a suitable welder. You should understand the factors that will aid you in making an informed decision as you buy your tungsten welder.
Ask yourself if you need a compact welder that you can move about. Do you need a high welding speed? Would you like one with a square wave inverter? Do you want a DC welder, or are AC DC TIG welders more up your alley? Ask yourself what your primary welding process is.
The input power determines the kind of tasks that your TIG welder can perform. For heavy duties, you need a welder with high input power. Some may even be able to double as a plasma cutter if they’re strong enough. Most TIG welding machines have automatic AC and DC adjustability, which is great to weld aluminum or other metals. (As a note, most TIG welders weld aluminum!) However, they will not exceed their maximum power input. The TIG welder will operate within a particular range. You should know the power phases your welder can work in without mishaps.
When choosing the input power, consider the type of material you’ll operate on. Steel and aluminum are the most common types of material. But if you want to weld aluminum, always double-check that the TIG welding machine you’re looking at is an AC TIG. They also come in different material thicknesses and gauges.
If you want value for your bucks (which we’re sure you do), consider high input devices for thick and dense metals. This will help you find a cheap TIG welder that does everything you need it to do. Direct currents are suitable for hard materials like stainless steel.
There are other metals like magnesium that have a low density. Low input power TIG welders are suitable for operating on such materials. An alternative current (AC) will work for you if your material is less dense and produce a weld puddle. Racing cars are mostly made of steel, which necessitates a high input if you are a racer.
Keep in mind that TIG welding means gas tungsten arc welding. You can get other features with your TIG welding machine, such as a stick welder. If you need another pulse welding process, try MIG welding.
This refers to the ability of the TIG welder to operate continuously. It’s usually expressed as a percentage or ratio of the total active time (conventional 10 minutes for welding equipment machines). You should consider TIG welders with a high DC for commercial use or dense metal operations.
The cooling system is the primary determinant of a tungsten welder duty cycle. You can opt for low-duty cycle TIG welders for light tasks like home use. It should serve the purpose without any hitches. A power surge decreases the DC because the power input increases the rate of heating overworking the cooling system.
Cheap models have a DC of 20%. This aspect makes them suitable for light tasks and soft metals. High-quality and relatively expensive welding equipment machines are designed to operate for more than 6 minutes in a 60% duty cycle.
Most buyers will look for light TIG welders. This factor is crucial because it determines the portability of your device. If your welder operates from a fixed position, you can consider the option of a heavyweight tungsten welder. However, if you are a nomadic worker, buy a machine that you can easily lift from one place to another. The best TIG welders for such operations should be less than 100lbs.
The size of the transformer (the heaviest part of a welder) determines the weight and size of your TIG welding machine. However, some welders are light but difficult to carry because they have unreliable handles which could break while lifting. The best TIG welding machine will have a handle sturdy enough to support the weight.
Digital Display and Automation
As said earlier, TIG welders are engaging machines. Automation and digitization make your work easier through features like automatic high-temperature shutdown and balance. These elements are essential for the maintenance of your welder. However, if you’re a keen and experienced worker, you will not have difficulty using manual welders.
Amateurs are best suited by highly digitalized and automated machines to reduce the tasks that keep their body engaged. Digital displays help you follow manufacturer’s regulations in terms of voltage, power output, and preferred material.
Preset features also improve the accuracy of operation for voltage and amperage. Considering the above factors, look at some of the best TIG welders for various tasks.
Can I use my welder for aluminum welds?
Welding aluminum requires an alternative current because of its sensitivity. Therefore, if you are working on aluminum material, you should ensure your welder supports an AC. If you have an AC DC TIG, then welding aluminum will be a breeze!
How do I use my TIG welder?
The use of a TIG welder differs depending on the amperage, voltage, and type of material. Some welders will automatically detect the voltage phase in use and adjust accordingly. The amperage is set depending on the DC you want to achieve. If you’re going to work continuously on light metals (such as mild steel), the best welding machines will do that perfectly at low amperage.
Most packages will come with a user’s manual that explains how you should connect and use your machine, and what TIG welding requires. You should also consider your level of expertise when purchasing a welder because some may be complicated to use.
Does my welder offer stick and TIG welding options? How do I adjust?
Most TIG welders offer you the choice of TIG and stick. Some may not provide the full package, although they are compatible. You only need to buy the stick to enhance this option. A TIG stick welder is better for alloy steel. You can usually use a stick welder both indoors and outdoors, but make sure to check your TIG stick welder manual just in case!
What does duty cycle mean, and how does this affect my welding?
The term refers to the percentage of time your quality weld can work within 10 minutes. The rate is always given in ratios or percentages. DC determines your total output when working continuously.
Hydrogen is one of the worst elements when using even the best TIG machines. Because it’s readily available in the atmosphere, keep your welder clean to avoid inhibition by the component. This element will cause cracking of welds hours after finishing your work. Read more about the TIG welding process in this educational study here.
The earliest welds in history date back to the Bronze Age- 3,500 B.C. The arts were discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs.
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