10Best.Guide

Tig Welder

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Adjustable for varying metal "recipes"
  • Complete parts inventory
  • Exceptional full-color user manual
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Good customer service
Cons
  • Defective units reported
  • Does not run 6010 or 6011 rods
Bottom Line
The Primeweld TIG225ACDCP is a good value for the price, with many features and good performance on both steel and aluminum. However, some defective units have been reported, and it does not run 6010 or 6011 rods.
Pros
  • Easy to use and portable.
  • Good for small projects and novices.
  • Surprisingly good for its size and power.
  • Instant start and good penetration.
  • Multivoltage capability.
Cons
  • Not suitable for 110V.
  • Inaccurate current readout.
Bottom Line
This welder is a good choice for small projects and novices who need a portable and easy-to-use machine. However, it has limitations with certain types of electrodes and is not suitable for 110V.
Pros
  • High quality and high performance.
  • Versatile and powerful.
  • Easy to use and configure.
  • Good customer service.
  • Advanced features at a great price.
Cons
  • Learning curve for TIG welding.
  • Weak on the 110v plug extension cord.
Bottom Line
The Everlast PowerTIG 200DV is a versatile and powerful welder with advanced features at a great price. It comes with a 5-year warranty and good customer service. However, there may be a learning curve for TIG welding and some components may need to be replaced over time.
Pros
  • Most feature-packed TIG welder for the price
  • Solidly put together and nicely packaged
  • Comes with everything you need
  • Great value proposition
  • Best cost/benefit you can have
Cons
  • Air cooled torch gets hot quickly
  • Arc wanders a bit on aluminum welding
Bottom Line
The Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD is a feature-packed TIG welder that offers great value for the price. While there are some issues with the air cooled torch and foot pedal, the machine is well-built and comes with everything you need. The initial quality control and long-term reliability may be questionable, but the customer service is good. Overall, it's a great option for hobbyists and those looking for an affordable TIG welder.
Pros
  • Good for learning and novice welders
  • Stick welding feature works well
  • Good duty cycle
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable price
Cons
  • Poor customer support
  • Quality control issues
Bottom Line
The AlphaTig 201X is an affordable option for novice welders, but it has poor customer support and quality control issues. Buyers may want to consider other options, such as the Everlast.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for TIG Welders: Types, Features, Prices, Tips, and FAQs

Overview

Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding is a precise and versatile welding process that is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. If you're considering purchasing a TIG welder, there are several factors to consider, including the type of TIG welder, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

There are three main types of TIG welders: AC, DC, and AC/DC. AC TIG welders are used for welding aluminum and magnesium, while DC TIG welders are used for welding steel, stainless steel, and copper. AC/DC TIG welders are the most versatile and can be used for welding a variety of materials.

Key Considerations

When choosing a TIG welder, there are several key considerations to keep in mind, including amperage range, duty cycle, portability, ease of use, and safety features.

Features

TIG welders come with a variety of features, including foot pedals, pulse welding, high frequency start, and adjustable post-flow. Other features to consider include AC balance control, AC frequency control, and lift start.

Prices

TIG welders range in price from $500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the type and features. AC TIG welders tend to be the least expensive, while AC/DC TIG welders are the most expensive.

Tips

When using a TIG welder, it's important to wear the proper safety gear, including a welding helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. Other tips include practicing on scrap metal before welding on your project, keeping a consistent distance between the electrode and the workpiece, and maintaining a steady hand.

FAQs

Q: What is TIG welding?

Q: What materials can be welded with a TIG welder?

Q: What is the difference between AC and DC TIG welding?

Q: What is the duty cycle of a TIG welder?

Q: How do I choose the right TIG welder for my needs?

Q: How do I maintain my TIG welder?

Q: How do I troubleshoot common TIG welding problems?

A: Other sections:

- Pros and cons of TIG welding

- TIG welding vs. other welding processes

- Common TIG welding applications

- TIG welding certification and training programs

Overall, a TIG welder is a valuable investment for anyone who needs precise and high-quality welding results. By considering the type, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose the best TIG welder for your needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Runs a very nice bead with 1/8 7018
  • Easy to transport and use
  • Handiest welder
  • Very easy to use
  • Relatively cheap
Cons
  • Item was a return or had been used previously
  • LCD display failure
Bottom Line
This is a relatively cheap and easy-to-use welder that is perfect for light-duty projects. It is compact and easy to transport, making it ideal for those who need to make repairs on equipment and fences. However, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty welding projects and some users have reported issues with the LCD display and ground clamp.
Pros
  • Works well with 220 volts.
  • Good for small repairs and around the house projects.
  • Easy to carry and store.
  • Can weld without 220v.
  • Good for beginners.
Cons
  • Loose power cord entering the back of the welder.
  • Welder pulses/surges really bad.
Bottom Line
This welder is a good option for small repairs and around the house projects, especially for beginners. However, it has some quality control issues and lacks good instructions and documentation.
Pros
  • Very light in weight and low cost.
  • Plenty of power for welding.
  • Stick and TIG both work great.
  • Nice clean welds with very nice penetration.
  • Perfect small project welder.
Cons
  • Welding cables not long enough.
  • User manual is very tight on information.
Bottom Line
This is a great budget-friendly welding machine for small projects, but it may not be suitable for professional use or welding aluminum. The user manual is not very informative, and the welding cables are not long enough. However, it has plenty of power for welding and produces nice clean welds with good penetration.
Pros
  • Great value for the price.
  • Good for beginners to learn on.
  • Lightweight and easy to use.
  • Solid build quality.
  • Stick welding function is easy to use.
Cons
  • Foot pedal is not a true variable amperage control.
  • Gas connection is located too low.
Bottom Line
The YESWELDER TIG-250P is a great value for the price and is good for beginners to learn on. It has a solid build quality and is lightweight and easy to use. However, it may have some issues with the foot pedal, gas connection, and incorrect connectors. It may also have issues with thermal overload and high frequency.
Pros
  • Great value for the price
  • Portable and lightweight
  • User-friendly and easy to set up
  • Tig function is good
  • Lays down a clean bead
Cons
  • Scratch start can be difficult for beginners
  • Not a lift tig
Bottom Line
This welder is a great value for the price and is portable and user-friendly. However, it is only suitable for stick welding and requires additional equipment for tig welding.
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