Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder

Tungsten inert gas welding, otherwise known as TIG or GTAW, is a type of arc welding that uses a tungsten electrode to create seals. The welding machine is popularly used on thinner sheets of stainless steel and other non-ferrous metals. Purchasing a high-quality machine is going to be a bit of an investment for the average hard-working person though. So how can you tell which products are the real deal and which are duds created to trick you? Reading the reviews of the 3 best tig welding machines below will help you get your search started in the right direction.

Product Name Image Overall Rating Details
Weldpro ACDC200GD | High-end Product with Professional-Grade Quality Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide
10
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Forney’s Easy Weld 271 model| Lightweight and Easy to Take on the Go Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide
9.8
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PrimeWeld CT520D | Best Option for Your Money Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide
9.5
Check price
28
Models Considered
5
Hours of Research
1
Experts Interviewed
53
Reviews Analyzed

High-end Product with Professional-Grade Quality – Weldpro ACDC200GD

Best Choice
Weldpro ACDC200GD
Weldpro ACDC200GD
If you’re on the hunt for the best tig welder under $1,000, then the Weldpro ACDC200GD may be a good fit for you. You’ll be able to smoothly work on more than just steel or aluminum, and it has a lot of features that are typically only found on pricier alternatives. It is both upslope and downslope friendly, its pulse is adjustable, it has AC balance, and more. Your purchase of this product will come with an extensive kit that will eliminate your need to go out and buy a bunch of extra equipment. The kit will have a foot pedal, adapter, a ground cable, and more! Note that the foot option is not required though, making this product practical for people who cannot or prefer not to use their legs while working.
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While this option’s price point makes it better suited for those with experience, it is technically easy enough for beginners to use as a learning device. It will either increase your existing welding efficiency or it will start you off in a wonderful spot to work fast and create clean fusions. If you are having a hard time trusting this review, then let this product’s 4.6/5-star rating speak for itself.

PROS:
  • Up and downslope usage
  • Great ratings
  • Includes extensive kit
  • Bright yellow color
  • Warranty good for 2 years
  • Good arc force control
CONS:
  • None

Customers’ Reviews from Amazon:

The best home TIG welder for the DIY hobbyist. I maintain a small farm and garden, and I have saved so much money building and fixing things around the homestead myself. You’ll love how self-sufficient this thing makes you.

I am a middle-aged man with paraplegia. At first, I was afraid that my injury would interfere with my welding. However, this machine is easy to use without foot-pedal assistance. I’m grateful for the way this machine lets me engage in my favorite activities.

Who would have thought you could buy the best tig welder for under $2,000? I’ve used 7 different TIGs over the course of my professional career. All have been more expensive than this one, but none of them have worked as well.
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Lightweight and Easy to Take on the Go – Forney’s Easy Weld 271 model

Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

Forney’s Easy Weld 271 model only weighs under 25 pounds and is compact compared to other options. It would probably be a good option for those who are planning on using their machine for work and need to be able to move it from job to job. For those who only plan on welding occasionally, this may also be an ideal option thanks to its low price point. This product’s 3 in 1 welder reviews are impressive– it has an Amazon star rating of 4.5/5. Its only downside is that the accessories you would require for a TIG job are not included and would have to be purchased separately. However, it does come with a helpful list of recommended accessories that would be compatible with this option.

  • Product
Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271

Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271

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Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271 Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271 Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271 Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271 Forney Easy Weld 140 MP, Multi-Process Welder, Green, Model:271
PROS:
  • Lightweight
  • 3-in-1 use
  • Excellent value
  • Warranty lasts for one year
CONS:
  • TIG accessories not included

Customers’ Reviews from Amazon:

The type of work I do varies frequently between TIG and MIG, so I like this product a lot. It gives me great flexibility so that I only have to own one machine instead of 3.

In my opinion, this is the best tig welder out there. Its quality is great but it doesn’t break the bank. After purchasing the extras you need for TIG, you won’t need to buy anything else for a long time.

Last month I was asking my friends, what is tig welding? Today, I’m getting paid to do it professionally. I wouldn’t have been able to if this product wasn’t so easy to use though. It is perfect for beginners!
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Best Option for Your Money – PrimeWeld CT520D

Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

The PrimeWeld CT520D is likely going to be the best option for you if your primary focus is on getting a good deal for a functional product. What makes it one of the best portable tig welders is its ability to perform as a 3-in-1 machine. Because it is not too heavy, you can easily move this product around to different jobs or in your own garage to plasma cut on pieces up to half an inch, TIG, or arc weld. The product comes with a warranty that lasts up to 3 years and its kit includes everything you need to get started.

  • Product
PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200...

PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200...

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PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200... PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200... PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200... PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200... PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200... PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200...
PROS:
  • Long warranty coverage
  • 3-in-1 technology
  • 4.7/5-star rating
CONS:
  • May not last as long as pricier alternatives
  • Sometimes includes used parts

Customers’ Reviews from Amazon:

After reading the lincoln square wave tig 200 review and this one, I was torn. The square wave tig 200 reviews did not mention ratings as high as this one has though. The lincoln tig 200 review was also generally underwhelming. Chose this one and I’m so glad I did!

Where has this been all my life? After trying this at my brother’s house, I bought it right away. It is truly a graceful machine that will produce beautiful fuses.

This is the best tig welder in the world for people looking for something to use around the house!

FAQ

Is there any color used for marking tungsten electrode?

Yes, pure tungsten electrodes are usually marked by the color green. Alloys also have their own color markings. For instance, thoriated tungsten electrodes are marked by the color red.

What are the causes of formation of yellow smoke or powder on the tungsten electrode?

This mainly occurs when the quantity of shielding gas is not enough and the tungsten starts reacting with the atmosphere.
Previous Top Choices
Need a serious tool for metal work? In this write-up, we have put together a series of vital info on welding procedures, TIG welding, and presented unbiased reviews of top TIG welders. Reading through our best TIG welder reviews would help you to pick the right machine without much fuss. When we carried out a study, we found that at present the market is filled with different models of TIG welders. These units vary in their prices, features, and usability. So, to make the process of picking the right TIG welder easier for you, we have reviewed the best units available on the market currently.

What is TIG Welder?

The term “welding” is used for a sculptural or fabrication process used to join materials, particularly thermoplastics and metals. The procedure causes fusion (it’s a different kind of fusion compared to what we see in lower temperature material joining techniques such as soldering and brazing) and thereby joins two different metal surfaces aptly. A TIG welder is also often referred to as Gas Tungsten Arc Welder. These machines work by fusing the metal parts to be joined together by means of heat produced from an electric arc. The said electric arc gets established in between the work-piece and a non-consumable (something that wouldn’t melt) tungsten alloy electrode. The weld pool temperature can become as high as 4530  F or 2500 C during TIG welding. The inert gas (the gas used for this purpose may be helium or argon or a blend of both) used during the procedure plays a vital role in sustaining the arc and ensuring that the molten metal doesn’t get contaminated by the atmospheric elements. The process first came into being during the final years of the 1930s, a time when the need of welding magnesium suddenly became apparent. You can use a TIG welder in all possible welding positions. Underwater welding is also possible. That’s not all; these machines can be used in automatic, semiautomatic, as well as manual modes. What modes you will be able to use depends on the equipment you are using and the kind of job you are using it for.

28
Models Considered
5
Hours of Research
1
Experts Interviewed
53
Reviews Analyzed

TIG200 Aluminum Welder Square Inverter by Lotos

LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal and Mask

Among all the units we tested during the study, this is surely among the ones that have the most amazing reputation. User reviews suggest that this unit helps people in achieving accurate welding. As a result of being extremely user-friendly and functional, the machine can be used both by beginners and professionals without any difficulty. The TIG200 Aluminum Welder from the house of Lotos is capable of delivering dual voltage, 110v AC/220v AC, and dual frequency, 50 Hz/60 Hz. Are you confused whether your welding project would require 220 V or 110 V? There’s nothing to worry about. The device would detect the suitable voltage for your job and adjust accordingly. The unit’s adapter plug would allow you to switch from 220 V to 110 V (& vice versa) quickly and easily. The next feature we found most intriguing is the unit’s ability to employ square wave inverter technology. This technology enables this Lotos product to weld aluminum with amazing accuracy. The technology is also known for showing excellent results even when welding stainless steel and mild steel. The square wave inverter technology provides the welder with the power of welding metals which are just 3/8 inch thick.  How can you beat that? Another major plus of the product is surely its ability to complete both TIG and stick welding jobs flawlessly. When carrying out TIG welding the device produces 10 to 200 amps while for carrying out stick welding it produces 30 to 200 amps. In addition, you will get a foot pedal. You will be able to control the unit’s welding heat by means of the foot pedal, which would make maneuvering the unit even simpler.
  • Product
LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal...

LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal...

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LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal... LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal... LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal... LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal... LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal... LOTOS TIG200 200A AC/DC Aluminum Tig/Stick Welder Square Wave Inverter with Pedal...
Features:
  • Automatic dual frequency (50/60 Hz) and dual voltage (110/220V) operations
  • Uses square-wave inverter technology to weld aluminum accurately
  • Weighs 58 lb
  • Can function both as a TIG and Stick welder
  • Can operate both on AC and DC
Conclusion Are you wondering what kind of users would find the TIG200 Aluminum Welder most useful? With the welder, you will get a series of high-quality accessories, each one of which is either essential for running the device or would make using it easier for you. You will get a cable, a ground clamp, a TIG torch, an argon regulator and hose, a stick welding electrode holder, a collet body, two collets, two shield cups, a DC tungsten electrode, and a user manual. However, in spite of being a cheap TIG welder, it is pretty powerful and can be used effectively to complete almost all automotive and home projects.
PROS:
  • Suitable for being used both in your home or a domestic workshop
  • The foot pedal enables easy welding heat control
  • Delivers maximum accuracy when used to weld aluminum
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Extremely affordable
CONS:
  • Doesn’t have any pulse feature
  • You will struggle to get replacement parts
Manual

TIG200 Aluminum Welder User Manual

View this manual

Carefully read the operation manual prior to using, installing and maintaining the electric welding machine for the purpose of preventing damages such as fire, electric shock and etc. from occurring. Please keep the manual for future reference.

LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine by Lotos

Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in 1

Lotos, one of the world’s most trusted manufacturers of welders, has always come up with products capable of meeting specific needs of users. The LTPDC2000D is another such creation. When you buy a Lotos LTPDC2000D, you will get a 200 A TIG welder, a 50 A plasma cutter, and a 200 A stick welder. In spite of offering so much, it will make you spend a little over $500. Lotos has made this product using robust Infineon IGBT Power Drive matrix. This construction plays a significant role in making the machine highly durable. Being a sturdy unit, the welder is capable of offering additional cutting power. You can use it to cut almost everything. Other than being a dual voltage welder, it’s also a dual frequency unit (it is capable of working with a frequency of both 50 and 60 Hz). This makes the device highly versatile. When testing the machine what we liked most about it is that it doesn’t get hot even after constant use. This has been possible due to the in-built PAPST cooling system of the welding. There are not many welders that carry such a state-of-the-art cooling system. We also loved the product’s Pilot Arc Feature. This feature ensures that the welder can effectively cut through rusty surfaces.
  • Product
Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in...

Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in...

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Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in... Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in... Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in... Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in... Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in... Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in...
Features:
  • It’s a 3 in one welding machine (a plasma cutter, a stick welder, and a TIG welder)
  • Enables automatic dual voltage (110/220 V) and dual frequency (50/60 Hz) operations
  • Comes equipped with non-touch pilot ARC torch
  • Can be used to weld with various kinds of acidic and basic electrode
Conclusion Would it be a good decision to buy a Lotos LTPDC2000D? Yes, particularly if you are interested in saving a lot of money. The best thing about the product is that it performs each one of its three jobs with equal perfection. This TIG welder plasma cutter should be the go-to unit for anyone in search of a unit capable of carrying out stick welding, plasma cutting, and TIG welding. This means, having this one unit would ensure that you would not need to spend money on three separate machines. Another thing that testifies to the product’s impressive quality is the fact that the manufacturer is offering a three-year warranty on the product.
PROS:
  • Thanks to its Infineon IGBT Power Drive matrix, the machine is extremely durable
  • The welder is capable of creating cleaner and stronger contact without any difficulty
  • The machine has three functions, which makes it extremely cost-effective
  • The device is light in weight and thus highly portable
CONS:
  • Its welding leads are a bit smaller compared to what we find in similar units
Manual

Lotos LTPDC2000D User Manual

View this manual

Carefully read the operation manual prior to using, installing and maintaining the electric welding machine for the purpose of preventing damages such as fire, electric shock and etc. from occurring. Please keep the manual for future reference.

Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide
Pro Tip

Do opt for clamping if the metal piece you are working on is not duly supported.


Jon

AlphaTIG Stick Welder by AHP

AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder

Are you looking for a TIG welder under 1000 that comes with more features than one would expect to get in such a low-cost product? If yes, then the AlphaTIG Stick Welder by AHP is surely a product you can consider buying. The company has constantly upgraded the product and the current one available on the market has been updated for the year 2018. It’s an ideal welder both for professionals and hobbyists who like completing welding projects in their spare time. The machine weighs around 68 Lbs. As a result, it is highly portable and perfect for a small shop, studio, or garage. To make maneuvering the device easier for you, AHP has incorporated some standard TIG accessories into the package. You will find a dedicated control switch for the unit’s torch; it also comes equipped with a foot pedal that can be used for using the torch. We found the process of setting up the welder exceptionally easy. Using the product is also pretty simple. You can use the unit to completing precision welds on bronze castings, sculptures, cars, motorbikes, or any other object that requires an aesthetically pleasing and smooth surface. Being a combination of a stick and TIG welder, this AHP creation would allow you to complete a wide variety of welding jobs. Another factor that makes the machine extremely versatile is its amperage range. The output range of this welder ranges between 5 and 230 amperes; as a result, it can be used for welding almost anything. The next factor that contributes to the welder’s versatility is its AC/DC capability. When welding steel, you will be able to complete the job using DC. However, for welding aluminum, you will need your welder to use AC current. When working on AC current, the user can weld and simultaneously clean the oxidization taking place on the metal. We also loved the fact that the device has a 60 percent duty cycle. This feature would allow you to use it for extended periods without experiencing problems like overheating.
  • Product
2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder...

2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder...

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2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder... 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder... 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200 X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder...
Features:
  • 200 ampere AC/DC TIG welder
  • Weighs 69 lb
  • Offers high performance both at 110 V and 220 V
  • WP17 flex hose uses standard TIG torch consumables
  • Offers full range cleaning control and pulse feature for AC
Conclusion This unit has been designed for people planning to buy a reasonably priced versatile TIG welder. The other factor that makes this AHP product one of the most sought-after TIG welders of current times is its ease of use. That’s not all; the unit also boasts the ability to complete welding jobs with absolute precision.
PROS:
  • Comes with AC/DC capability
  • Light in weight and thus highly portable
  • Has a 60 percent duty cycle
  • Can weld almost anything
  • Offers a series of pulse features
  • Comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of three years
CONS:
  • The unit’s display screen doesn’t show its amperage accurately
  • Doesn’t come with enough accessories

AHP AlphaTIG 200X Unboxing & Overview!

Yotube Video Review: AHP AlphaTIG 200X Unboxing & Overview!

PowerARC 160STH HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual Voltage by Everlast

EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder

Everlast has always been known for manufacturing durable and high quality products. This dual voltage welder boasts similar qualities. The biggest USP of this product is surely its ability to switch between TIG and Arc welding. In spite of being a highly user-friendly machine, the PowerARC 160STH HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder is a heavy-duty device and can be used for completing almost all kinds of welding projects. When working at 160 A, the device can offer a reasonable 35%. Expect it to offer an even higher percentage once the power is increased. The PowerARC 160STH by Everlast is a portable unit. It is light in weight and comes equipped with a sturdy shoulder strap, which makes traveling with it from one place to another incredibly easy. The welder can be operated both at 120 V and 220 V. This means, the machine can be set up and used wherever there’s a power source. The two other essentials you must have for getting started are some argon and tungsten.
  • Product
2017 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual...

2017 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual...

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2017 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual... 2017 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual... 2017 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual...
Features:
  • Offers the options of working both at 120 V and 220 V
  • Includes both lift start and HF start
  • Comes equipped with IGBT inverter technology
  • Weighs just 36.9 lb
Conclusion This Everlast creation makes a great tool for almost anyone. You might be a first-timer looking to ensure that your initial welding jobs turn out to be fairly clean and decent or might be a seasoned professional in search of a tool that would allow you to produce finer results without any spatter; you will love the performance showcased by the PowerARC 160STH Welder. For people working to steel and other metal alloys, the device offers real value for money. The manufacturer has kept the price of the product under $600; this makes it an ideal buying option even for home users.
PROS:
  • Has a compact structure and is light in weight
  • Comes with 5 years of warranty on parts and labor
  • The device works both as a TIG and ARC welder
CONS:
  • Doesn’t have AC output and thus not suitable for people working with aluminum
Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide
Pro Tip

Use magnetic test, spark test etc for determining the kind of metal you are working on.


Jon

Square Wave TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1 by Lincoln Electric

Square Wave® TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1

Like all other Lincoln products launched to date, this one also scores impressively in terms of ease of use and quality. However, what makes the Square Wave TIG 200 even more special is the plethora of advanced features it possesses. The device would allow you to use stick and TIG from just one power source. What’s more, you will also get the opportunity of choosing between the AC and DC options when using this Lincoln Electric creation. If it’s a simple welding job, using the AC option should be the way to go, while for heavy duty tasks it would be wise to pick the DC option. It’s a dual voltage TIG welder and can run on both 120 V and 240 V. You will have to adjust the machine according to the thickness and density of the material you are looking to weld. The 120 V phase of the welder supports a duty cycle of 25% for TIG at 125 amperes. At the same phase, the duty cycle supported for stick is 20% at 75 amperes. To get similar duty cycles at 240 V, you will have to increase the amperage to 170A and 200A respectively for stick and TIG. One feature that we found most amazing when testing the product is the automatic gas shutoff. This helps in saving gas burnout and makes the machine even more user-friendly.
  • Product
Square Wave® TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1

Square Wave® TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1

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Square Wave® TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1
Features:
  • Weighs 46.50 lb
  • Amazing TIG machine for welding aluminum
  • Works efficiently both at 120 V and 240 V
  • Has impressive duty cycles
Conclusion The current price of the product is more than $1600, which makes it the most expensive unit in this list. As a result of being so pricey, it is not a great choice for home users who would need this machine on rare occasions. However, it would definitely be a good investment for welding professionals who want to work with 100% precision.
PROS:
  • Light in weight and small in size
  • Works both as a stick and TIG welder
  • Will allow you to choose between AC and DC options
CONS:
  • The device is quite expensive

Lincoln Electric Squarewave TIG 200 Unboxing and Review

Yotube Video Review: Lincoln Electric Squarewave TIG 200 Unboxing and Review

500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder 230V by Hobart

Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder

This is another expensive machine on our list. It might be costly, but the performance it would deliver would surely overpower its price. The EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder by Hobart is a 230 V ac/dc tig welder for the money that enables a unique single knob control. To use the device, you will just need to take it out from the box and spend just a few minutes to set it up. You will not need to be an expert for setting up this welding machine. This Hobart creation has an inverter-based power source. As a result, the machine doesn’t need too much power to run properly but keeps producing an impressive welding arc consistently. The machine weighs just 23 kg or 50 pounds, which means taking it from one work site to another, will not be a problem. Here, it must be noted that a low body weight doesn’t make the unit less efficient and powerful. It is capable of completing a wide range of welding projects efficiently and flawlessly. The HF start, on the other hand, would allow you to protect the welder against tungsten and material contamination. Then, there’s the auto shut-off feature. The EZ165i shuts itself down the moment the temperature becomes too high. This means users would never need to worry about possibilities like the machine getting damaged by overheating.
  • Product
Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder 230V

Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder 230V

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Features:
  • Welds 22ga up to 3/16 inches both in AC and DC
  • Boasts a unique Fan-On-Demand feature
  • Weighs just 50 lb
  • Petite in size with dimensions of 26.8 x 13.7 x 20.8 inches
Conclusion The unit is powerful enough to be used in an auto body repair shop. When carrying out a survey on the product, we also find its use common in automotive fabrication plants and among people creating metal art. You can consider buying it even if you are a do it yourself enthusiast. The thing we liked most about the device is that it comes with a handful of features incorporated just for making the unit more user-friendly. For instance, the fan-on-demand feature of the product helps in keeping it clean by blowing away debris and dust whenever needed. The biggest pluses of the product are its versatility and ease of use. These qualities make it a good buying option not only for professionals but also for hobbyists who need to use welders regularly. The advanced features embedded in this welding machine make its high price justifiable.
PROS:
  • Can be handled and moved easily by a single user
  • Offers dual functionality
  • Enables single knob control
  • Can work with different kinds of metals with equal efficiency
  • Has a sturdy body made of a highly robust material
CONS:
  • The device is quite expensive
  • Has a cullet body and cullet of 3/32”
Manual

EZ-TIG 165i TIG Welder User Manual

View this manual

Please make sure to read and understand this manual before use.

HOBART EZ TIG 165i ACDC TIG WELDER REVIEW

Yotube Video Review: HOBART EZ TIG 165i ACDC TIG WELDER REVIEW

PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder by Everlast

EVERLAST PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder

This is the only TIG welder under 500 we could add to this list. That’s because no other cheap welding machine available on the market could match the performance showcased by the costlier units besides this Everlast product. The thing that made us fall in love with this TIG welder almost instantly is the speed it starts working at. You will have a tough time finding a TIG stick welder that starts at such a high speed. The next notable quality of the machine is its lightweight body, which makes it a perfect buy for individuals looking for a portable welding unit. Perfect tool to learn on. While the two features mentioned above are good enough reasons for buying this inexpensive Everlast welder, there are more mesmerizing features you will be greeted with. The device works only on DC current, which makes it a perfect unit for completing heavy duty welding tasks. The machine has incredibly high power output and a satisfactory arc force control. The Everlast PowerArc can be used both as a TIG and stick welder and delivers great performance both at 250 and 120 volts. All these qualities ensure that the user will not need to compromise with performance and results when using this low-cost welding unit.
  • Product
EVERLAST PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual Voltage

EVERLAST PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual Voltage

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Features:
  • Works both at 250 and 120 volts
  • Weighs just 30 pounds
  • Comes with five-year warranty on labor and parts
  • 200 ampere DC & STICK
Conclusion If you have a really small budget, but still want your TIG welder to deliver impressive results, the PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder by Everlast is a must buy for you.
PROS:
  • Both TIG and stick capable
  • Comes equipped with a responsive digital display
  • Takes little time to start working
CONS:
  • Doesn’t allow users to work on AC current

How to Use Everlast's PowerARC 200ST Stick / TIG Welder

Yotube Video Review: How to Use Everlast's PowerARC 200ST Stick / TIG Welder

Product Name Image Weight Overall Rating Details
TIG200 Aluminum Welder Square Inverter by Lotos Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 58 lbs 10 Check price
LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine by Lotos Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 40 lbs 9 Check price
AlphaTIG Stick Welder by AHP Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 69 lbs 9.5 Check price
PowerARC 160STH 160amp HF TIG Stick IGBT Welder 110/220 Dual Voltage by Everlast Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 36.9 lbs 9.5 Check price
Square Wave TIG 200 TIG Welder K5126-1 by Lincoln Electric Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 46.5 lbs 8.5 Check price
500551 EZ-TIG 165i AC/DC TIG Welder 230V by Hobart Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 50 lbs 8.5 Check price
PowerARC 200ST 200amp TIG Stick IGBT Welder by Everlast Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide 30 lbs 8 Check price

How To Choose TIG Welder- Buyer’s Guide

Are you looking to buy a perfect TIG welder and don’t know where to start? If yes, then considering the following points is a must for ensuring that you are buying the right product.

  • Amperage range

Ideally, you should look for a piece that is offering the maximum amperage range for a reasonable price (a price that matches your budget). The wider would be the range, the greater would be your welder’s flexibility. For instance, if the amperage of a machine ranges between 5 A and 230 A, it would be able to weld thin materials such as stainless steel and thick materials like aluminum with equal perfection and ease.

  • AC/DC welding

Individuals, who have plans of using the welder for other materials besides stainless steel or steel, must buy a welder that offers both DC and AC options. Having the DC option is a must for welding hard materials like steel, stainless steel, and deoxidized copper. However, for welding aluminum, magnesium, and other soft, self-oxidizing metals, having a welder with AC option is a must.

  • Duty cycle

The duty cycle of a welder shows how much welding it can complete uninterruptedly during a 10-minute interval. The specification is represented by a percentage value. On average, the TIG welders of highest grade has low, medium, and high duty cycle respectively of 20%, 60%, and 80%.

  • Heat control

For getting precise results when welding thin metals, you must ensure that the welder you are using has the right heat control.

  • Price

As expected, pricey products marketed by reputable manufacturers almost always turn out to be extremely efficient. However, with a little research, you will also come across inexpensive units showcasing amazing welding performance.

Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

Types of Welding

  • MIG welding

MIG or Metal Inert Gas welding, which happens to be the most widely used industrial welding procedure, is primarily used for fusing stainless steel, aluminum, and mild steel. It involves joining two metal surfaces using a wire which remains connected to electrode current. MIG welders use a shielded gas together with that wire; the gas performs the job of heating up the metal surfaces to be connected. The other two essentials for this welding procedure are a direct current power source and constant voltage.

  • SMAW or stick welding

SMAW or Shielded Metal Arc welding, which is also often called Stick, is the most fundamental welding procedure. The stick works by using electric current for producing an electric arc connecting the metals to be joined and the stick. SMAW welding is primarily used for welding steel and iron and finds uses in repair as well as construction work.

  • FCAW

FCAW or Flux-Cored Arc welding was originally designed as a substitute for SMAW. It has significant similarities with MIG welding. However, there’s also a strong exception. Unlike MIG welding, FCAW uses a specially designed tubular wire carrying flux and doesn’t always need a shielding gas. The other factors that make FCAW the favorite procedure of many construction workers are its cost-effectiveness and comprehensibility. However, it also has a number of limitations. The most prominent one among them is surely its inability to offer aesthetically pleasing results. Still, FCAW is frequently used for completing construction projects because of its remarkably convenient portability and impressive welding speed for sheet metal or exhaust.

  • TIG welding

TIG or Tungsten Inert Gas welding involves the use of non-consumable tungsten electrodes for producing the weld. You will know more about the process as you will read the rest of the article.

Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

Material Types a TIG Welder Can Join

You can use your TIG welder for welding almost every metal alloy and metal that is currently in use. However, these machines have turned out to be most cost-effective when used for welding low gauge metals i.e. metals that have a thickness below 3 mm. What’s more amazing is that TIG welding often appears to be the most useful procedure when it comes to welding metals that are extremely tough to weld using other conventional welding procedures. Examples of such metals include the following:

  • Nickel, nickel alloys
  • Copper, copper alloys
  • Magnesium, magnesium alloys
  • Aluminum, aluminum alloys
  • Reactive materials such as tantalum and titanium
  • Carbon steels, low alloy steels

Additionally, it often turns out to be the only suitable option for joining alloy steels and carbon. But wait, there’s more in store; due to its ability to work with the most difficult metals, use of TIG welders is pretty common in aerospace industry and automotive industry. These devices also find use in metal furniture manufacturing. Invertec® v160-t tig welder is a good tool to work with. Best TIG Welder Reviews | 2020 Buying Guide

TIG Welder vs. Arc Welder

Tig welders (also known as gas tungsten arc welders) use non-consumable tungsten electrode for producing the weld in order to carry out arc welding. The devices used for carrying out gas metal arc welding or shielded metal arc welding don’t use a non-consumable element. The TIG welders also provide the operators with much greater control over the job than individuals using other arc welders.

TIG Welder vs. Stick Welder

The primary difference between a TIG welder and a stick welder is that the former is a lot more versatile than the latter. TIG welders can be used for welding almost all kinds of metals, while stick welders are suitable primarily for welding works involving steel and cast iron. The other prominent difference between stick and TIG welders is that unlike the former, TIG welders are capable of completing the welding job cleanly. Stick welders often end up causing serious spatter and slag.

TIG Welder Common Problems – Troubleshooting Guide

Although each of the Tig welder models we have reviewed earlier in this write-up is highly user-friendly, the basic process of TIG welding is arguably extremely difficult to learn. This makes it important for you to know the problems you may face. The section below would help you get acquainted with some of the most common TIG welder problems.

Poor gas coverage might cause contamination If the shielding gas of the machine is not activated, weld contamination may occur. The other situations that might lead to weld contamination include excess or insufficient shielding. You might also experience contamination if the gas gets blown away. For troubleshooting this problem you will have to do the following:
  • Check the label of your gas cylinder to ensure that you are using a gas suitable for TIG welding (100% argon or a blend of argon and helium for aluminum)
  • Make sure that the gas flow rate is proper (ideally between 15 and 20 cfh)
  • Avoid using the regular collet body; instead, use a gas lens for enjoying more efficient gas shielding
  • Inspect all hoses and fittings to spot leaks (use a leak detection fluid for completing the inspection flawlessly)

Weld graininess This occurs mostly when the welding temperature becomes too high and the base metal gets excessively diluted. Here are a few things you can do for preventing the problem:
  • Try to find the temperature that is neither too cold nor too hot, for the materials you are welding; this will prevent the formation of grains on the welded surfaces.
  • Check whether you are using the right filler material
  • Don’t forget to remove all moisture, oil, and grease from the base and filler metal

Crater formation Craters are often formed during the final stages of the weld. The biggest disadvantage of having craters on the welded metals is that they often cause cracking of the structures. Common causes of crater formation include quick removal of filler rod and sudden drop in weld power. The problem can be avoided successfully by being a little careful or by using TIG welders equipped with a crater-control feature.

Oxidation or sugaring Stainless steel often becomes a victim of oxidation or sugaring when the welded parts come in contact with oxygen present in the atmosphere. Having sufficient gas coverage at the back and front of the weld would help in avoiding this problem.

How to Use

You will have to begin by picking the right electrode. You will most likely have the right kind of electrode embedded in your TIG welder. For welding aluminum without undercuts, you would need a rod made of 100% pure tungsten. Alternatively, you can also pick a tungsten alloy (even the radioactive alloy thoriated tungsten will be a good choice); these alloys turn out to be useful particularly when welding metal alloys. Next, you will have to grind the device’s tungsten rod to a certain point. You will need to grind particularly when the tungsten rod would have a perfect cylindrical shape (new rods are mostly perfect cylinders) instead of the desired rounded or pointed tip. Here, it must be noted that experts believe that for AC welding, the rod must have a rounded tip and for DC welding, it must have a pointed tip. That’s it; you are now ready to use the device; here are the steps you’ll have to follow:
  • Step 1: Insert the device’s electrode into the device’s collect
  • Step 2: Choose the suitable settings
  • Step 3: Turn the gas on
  • Step 4: Get the welding table and metal ready
  • Step 5: Wear the right welding gear
  • Step 6: Check whether you can move the device freely
  • Step 7: Start welding

TIG Welding Technique: Walking the Cup

Yotube Video Review: TIG Welding Technique: Walking the Cup

Brands

Here is the list of the top welder manufacturers: Lincoln, Lotos, Miller, Everlast.

Safety Tips

  • Before beginning to weld, make sure that you have set up the device correctly for current, voltage, gas flow and shielding rate, and material.
  • Make sure that people working around you are protected from IR and UV radiation flash. For that, you will have to either place a UV screen between the people around you and the working area or drop down the UV curtain.
  • Make sure the is an oxygen flow working in the tight areas.
  • The workplace doesn’t have any oxide or paint. This is essential for ensuring satisfactory electrical contact.
  • Keep your eyes and skin duly protected for avoiding damage from accidental welding flashes. Keep checking the device’s welding torch assembly from time to time.
  • When the job is complete or if the job gets interrupted, turn the shielding gas and machine off. Also, store the hand-piece in a safe place.

Care and Maintenance

Never use the welder beyond its capacity. The device’s duty cycle would help you to understand its limit. This makes it crucial that you pick projects carefully and keep track of the device’s performance. It’s important that you clean the TIG welder on a regular basis. Accumulation of debris and dust might end up covering the machine’s mechanical parts and thereby stop it from delivering optimum performance. Cleaning these welders is easy. You will also need to remove its cover and blow the machine with compressed air. At times, you might also need to apply lubricants in certain parts of the machine. After a few years of use, it would be wise if you get your TIG welder checked by an experienced and qualified technician. He or she will remove grime, dirt, and dust from the unit’s cooling fans, PC boards, and transformers and help in prolonging the machine’s service life.

Weight and Portability

It’s important that the TIG welder you buy is not too heavy. This would allow you to take it to various job sites whenever you want. Ideally, the weight of these machines should range between 30 and 60 pounds.

Warranty

It would be good to get a device that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty of three or five years. If that’s not possible, make sure that the welder you are buying has manufacturer’s warranty of at least one year.

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