Welding is the art of ruling over metal, joining pieces together, and making something new out of them. Welders work with almost any type of metal and join them together to make a new shape. You will need different types of welding methods for different types of joints though! Making new forms, giving new shapes, and doing different jobs require the perfect machine that can pull them very well. As the machine works with different electric reactions, the machine must work at its best to get the best result out of it.
While choosing the best TIG welder, the budget will surely be a concern; and a thousand bucks is a good spot to go with. However, with this budget, you’ll get a pretty hectic competition among the best TIG welders in the marker. If you want to get the best tig welder under 1000, keep on reading the article as I get you to get through them here.
The 5 Best TIG Welders Under $1000
- 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200X
- LOTOS TIG200 200A
- Weldpro Digital TIG200G
- Amico TIG 160DC
- Everlast Power I-TIG 201
Quick Review: Best TIG Welder Under $1000
| IMAGE | NAME & Details | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
  | 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200X |
| Check Price |
  | LOTOS TIG200 200A |
| Check Price |
  | Weldpro Digital TIG200G |
| Check Price |
  | Amico TIG 160DC |
| Check Price |
  | Everlast Power I-TIG 201 |
| Check Price |
The 5 Best TIG Welders Under $1000 Review
1. AHP AlphaTIG 200X TIG Welder
If you need the best multi process welder under 1000 that can weld almost anything with different methods, the AHP AlphaTIG 200x is the one you want to go with.
It comes with both TIG and Stick welding methods to weld different types of metal for different jobs. No matter if you need professional service from the machine or need to do some hobby work, the AHP welder can handle both.
Putting in heavy metals or mild steel, the versatile operation mode makes it easier to join them together, firm. The adjustable current-voltage settings of the AHP welds make it easier to manipulate the metal and the joint as you like it.
You can pull up to 200 Amps out of this alpha welders monster with Power Width Modulation (PWM) and IGBT technology for long-lasting and reliable power output. Thanks to the digital inverter technology with both AC or DC tig that makes the machine stand out from the conventional welding machines.
You can plug it into a direct current source like a battery, or the grid current outlet which makes it truly versatile. It uses the WP17 flex hose torch to use both the TIG electrodes and Stick consumables. Furthermore, it will get you a foot pedal to make your welding experience go beyond your expectations.
Benefits and Reasons to Buy:
- You can run it with both 110 Volts and 220 Volts outlets along with IGBT tech for reliability.
- It has the Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology for stable power consumption. It allows you to weld smoothly.
- You can weld with the alpha tig 200x for both TIG welding and Stick welding methods. So if you’re a newbie, you can just start with Stick welding.
- It uses the advanced WP17 flex hose torch for both the Stick and TIG consumables. It provides a seamless arc.
- The machine runs with both AC or DC electricity to make a versatile fit for any situation. So it ensures your peace of mind as you can use the household current without a generator.
Key features:
- Technology: Advanced Inverter Technology with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) using IGBT.
- Duty Cycle: 35% @ 200A (stick), 60% @ 155A (TIG).
- Process Type: TIG or Stick.
- Controlling: Pedal
- Digital Display: Yes
Specification:
- Weight: 50 pounds.
- Dimension: 22×20×9 inches.
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Power Source: AC/DC.
- Voltage: 110v and 220v.
- Portability: Slightly portable.
- Warranty: 3 Years.
Pros:
- It does both Stick and TIG welding conveniently.
- Runs with both AC or DC electricity.
- Has electric stabilizing technologies.
- Comes with dedicated knobs for all the adjustabilities.
Cons:
- The product weight can be a concern.
- Learning curves for beginners.
2. Weldpro Digital TIG200GD TIG Welder
The Weldpro digital tig 200GD is a perfect machine that can work with both AC or DC current. The dual operation mode makes it a versatile selection when it comes to choosing the ultimate welder.
You can make a consistent weld on the prices without any amperage drops in the work process, thanks to its foot pedal. The foot pedal is rocker style and prevents any type of intervention into the welding process without using your hands. It also has the all amperage controlling settings so that you don’t have to readjust the pedal while changing the amperage.
The Superflex cable system of this machine will give you better flexibility at using the machine on different types of metal. The IGBT circuit system, integrated with advanced PWM technology will have a stable arc on the bead.
For a good MMA or Stick welding, it also features an advanced inverter technology to make a better pulse reaction. With a 40% duty cycle on full amperage with DC power and 60% at AC, the pulse tig welder will ensure you’re getting a professional welding quality.
Benefits and Reasons to Buy:
- The machine works with both AC or DC to work both indoors or outdoors. So you need not worry if you don’t have a generator.
- It has a rocker style foot pedal with an amperage controller to eliminate intervention. The foot pedal allows you to work with both hands efficiently.
- You don’t need to buy an extended cable for your works. It comes with a Superflex cable system for better flexible welding.
- It has inverter technology using the IGBT circuit system. Furthermore, it has Pulse Width Technology for stability.
- The machine has an efficient duty cycle. You will get a good 60% duty cycle at AC on full amperage and 40% with DC power.
Key features:
- Technology: Advanced Inverter Technology.
- Weight: 61 pounds.
- Dimension: 33 inches by 12 inches by 20 inches.
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Power Source: AC/DC.
- Duty Cycle: 40% AC, 60% DC at 200A in TIG
- Process Type: TIG or Stick.
- Voltage: 110v and 240v.
- Portability: Slightly portable.
- Controlling:
- Digital Display:
- Price Range:
- Warranty: 3 Years.
Specification:
- Weight: 61 pounds.
- Dimension: 33 inches by 12 inches by 20 inches.
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Power Source: AC/DC.
- Voltage: 110v and 240v.
- Portability: Slightly portable.
- Warranty: 3 Years.
Pros:
- It has both the Stick and TIG welding methods.
- The machine comes with inverter technology.
- It’s capable of running with both AC or DC electricity.
- The SuperFlex advanced electrode cable system.
- It has PWM technology with an IGBT circuit.
Cons:
- Fewer adjustability knobs for customizing the parameters.
3. Lotos TIG200 ACDC AC/DC TIG Welder
If you’re planning to weld anything from mild steel, stainless steel, or even aluminum, the Lotos tig welder does it all. You can run this ACDC welders machine with both AC or DC electricity output for a versatile welding experience. Furthermore, the power efficiency with AC electricity is over 80% that makes it one of the finest machines in the range.
When it comes to a tough job to weld thinner gauge metals, this machine can do the job just fine with its dual-frequency operation mode. You can run it with either a domestic 110V and 120V current or a regular 220V and 240V current output at 50 or 60 Hz.
Either you need to make a stick weld or an MMA TIG weld, the machine will have your back in both cases. You’ll get a stable ARC using the foot paddle with amperage controller technology.
To keep the monster cool inside, it comes with the PAPST advanced cooling fans that keep the internal cool, especially while the plasma cutter works. Plus, you’ll get a voltage converter from 220/110V along with an Argon regulator for a better welding experience.
Benefits and Reasons to Buy:
- It comes with 80% efficiency on AC electricity for greater penetration on the bead. Also, it provides oxidation removing features.
- You can weld almost any metal with it- stainless steel, aluminum, or mild steel. The machine can weld up to ⅜ inches of metal.
- It has both 110 Volts or 220 Volts operation modes and comes with a 220V to 110V converter.
- The machine is designed with the PAPST advanced cooling fan technology. It helps the machine from overheating.
- It works as an efficient plasma cutter with stable current using a foot pedal.
Key features:
- Technology: LOTOS Technology.
- Weight: 58 pounds.
- Dimension: 28 inches by 13 inches by 17 inches.
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Power Source: AC/DC.
- Duty Cycle: 100% @ 110A and 110V, 60% @ 150A and 110V. 100% @ 110A and
220V, 60% at 150A and 220V.
- Process Type: AC TIG, DC TIG, Stick and plasma cutter.
- Voltage: 110V and 220V.
- Output: 10-200 AMP.
- Thickness: ⅜ inches for mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
- Portability: A little heavy.
- Controlling: Pedal.
- Digital Display: Yes.
- Price Range: Under 800$.
- Warranty: 1 Years.
Pros:
- It has a higher efficiency rating for AC current.
- Operable with both AC or DC electricity.
- Comes with 220V to 110V operability.
- It can work as a plasma cutter.
- It comes with a passive cooling system.
Cons:
- More learning curves for the beginners
- The weight can be a problem with portability.
4. Amico TIG 160 Amp Stick DC – For light TIG Welding
When it comes to the best value for the money at selecting the best multifunctional welder, the Amico TIG-160DC performs great. With its multifunctional Stick ARC and TIG welding method, you will get a flawless welding experience without changing the machine.
You can weld almost any metal including mild steel, alloy steel, cast iron, copper, chrome, and up to 3/8″ stainless steel with it. The fine-tuned stable current flow and ARC stability will outperform almost any welding machine in this price range.
You can run the machine with both AC or DC electricity, making it the best ac/dc tig welder under 1000 for both indoor and outdoor usage. For the voltage input, it works with both 230V or 110V, making it an ideal solution for both professionals and hobbyists.
With 60% Duty Cycle at160 Amp power output, the machine will produce a satisfactory weld bead. The high-quality ARC makes a clean and flawless mold that the post-cleanup makes the spatter almost non-existent.
It comes with its own TIG torch on an included 13-feet cable and electrode holder and works clamp for both TIG and Stick.
Benefits and Reasons to Buy:
- The machine has both Stick and TIG welding methods for multifunctional operation. It provides a smooth arc in both operations.
- This machine can work with both AC or DC electricity for both home or workshop.
- It works with both 230V or 110V for better operation in domestic electricity.
- It has a better duty cycle. You’ll get a 60% Duty Cycle with this machine at a 160 Amp current output.
- It comes with an included TIG torch on the 13-feet cable and electrodes.
Key features:
- Technology: Advanced Inverter Technology.
- Weight: 15 pounds.
- Dimension: 6 x 7.5 x 11.8 inches.
- Material: Metal & ABS.
- Power Source: AC/DC.
- Duty Cycle: AC 230V/160A @60% & AC 110V/130A @60%.
- Process Type: TIG or Stick.
- Voltage: 110v and 230v.
- Portability:
- Controlling: No pedal.
- Digital Display:
- Price Range:
- Warranty: 1 Year.
Pros:
- Fewer learning curves for the beginners.
- Smaller form factor to move around easier.
- Usability at both 230 Volts and 110 Volts.
- Usable with both AC or DC electricity.
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a foot pedal.
- The duty cycle could be higher.
5. Everlast Power I-TIG 201 TIG Welder
The Everlast Power ITig 201 from Everlast is a package of perfection as an all-in-one welding machine. Whether you’re looking for a professional welder or a domestic tool, this machine can serve you with the utmost efficiency.
You can avoid a hectic investment on multiple welding machines if you get this machine because of its multifunctional capability. It can weld almost any type of metal from mild steel, copper, iron, or even stainless steel with this machine’s maximized ARC.
You can do both TIG or Stick welding with this machine, and it’s ready to go with both the welding methods.
It comes with TIG and Stick welding cables with an electrode holder including an Argon regulator starter pack. When it comes to power delivery, the machine is a 200 amp ac dc tig welder and you can run it at both 110 Volts or 240 Volts for both the home use or professional use.
Furthermore, the internal mechanism of the machine runs on inverter technology, along with the IGBT circuit design to make it efficient. You’ll get a dedicated pedal extension with the machine to give you an efficient welding experience with higher amperage stability at pulse tig welding.
Benefits and Reasons to Buy:
- You can weld metals with both TIG or Stick welding methods with this machine.
- The machine runs at both 110 Volts or 240 Volts for convenient operations. 110 Volts offers oxidation removal feature.
- It has an advanced IGBT circuit design on the internal mechanism.
- You will get a dedicated pedal extension with which you can control the current stability. Besides, you can work with both hands.
- The current output amperage capacity of this welding machine is up to 200 Amps. You can change output range easily.
Key features:
- Technology: Digital IGBT Inverter Technology.
- Weight: 40 pounds.
- Dimension: 26 x 6 x 14 inches.
- Material: Stainless Steel.
- Power Source: DC only.
- Duty Cycle: 22A @ 240V.
- Process Type: TIG or Stick.
- Voltage: 110v and 230v.
- Portability:
- Controlling:
- Digital Display:
- Price Range:
- Warranty: 5 Years.
Pros:
- It’s lightweight and easily portable.
- Usable for both Stick and TIG welding.
- Comes with adjustable switches.
- Display to show the current state.
- Included contact tips.
Cons:
- Some users report some lagging on a thick metal.
TIG Welder Buying Guide Under $1000
The thousand-dollar spot is getting more saturated with too many options in the market. While shopping for the best tig welder under 1000, you must keep some things in your mind such so:
Consider the project type you’re up to
If you’re trying to get a TIG welding machine, make sure the projects you usually work on uses this method. You must use the proper tool to get the job done with the best quality weld bead. If you’re planning to do a job with heavy metal blocks, you may need to consider having a MIG welding method in hand! For thin metal welding, TIG would be a great choice because of the lower penetration and contamination.
Multipurpose machines are better
The TIG welding method is a widely popular welding method that works on a wide range of metal. However, TIG alone cannot cover every metal you may have on the project. To cover the other metals, you’ll need other welding methods as well. Getting two separate welding machines is both bothersome and goes heavy on the wallet, too. Try to get a machine that has a multipurpose welding solution for you.
Consider the power requirements
The power requirement is the foremost thing you will consider after selecting the purpose and type of weld. See what type of power you’ll run the machine with and how much power you will need from it. If your house has a 240 Volts power outlet, a 110 V welding machine won’t pull the job you’re up to. Are you going to work with the machine indoor only? or the job also will take place outside? If so, you must consider getting a Dual input machine that can run with both AC and DC electricity.
Output amperage
The output amperage of the machine is the key to penetrate the metal and land the weld on it. Not every machine or every type of welding method will have the save amperage output from the tip. Decide what type of metal you’re going to work with and decide the machine accordingly. A 5 Amp output is just enough to penetrate metal thinner than 18 gage sheet metals while you will need 140 Amps for a 3/16 inch steel in a single pass.
Duty cycle
Consider the duty cycle to determine how efficient the machine is. It’s the indication of the overall power of the machine. It refers to the machine’s 10 minutes of operational time and how long it can operate in a row. If the machine has a 60% duty cycle, it means the machine needs 4 minutes of resting time before it can work for the next 6 minutes.
Options and accessories
When you get through the desired welding machine, you’ll get a ton of options and accessories with it. You must consider having the ones you need the most to pull the job you’re planning to do. A foot pedal will help you control the stability of the output amperage to land a solid, even weld. An Argon regulator will help you keep an eye on the pressure level of the gas cylinder connected to the welder.
What is Tig Welder
TIG welding is an Arc welding process that uses a tungsten electrode which is a non-consumable rod and melts the base metal to join together. You can also use a consumable filler metal externally if you want to, but you have to make sure the filler metal matches the base. The process will require you to run the machine with DC electricity, and electrode negative; DCEN in short.
However, if you weld aluminum with TIG, you will be using AC electricity instead of DC. In the process, the non-consumable electrode will set to negative while the base metal is positive. When you bring the electrode into the contact with the base metal, the electric arc will heat up the applied area on the bead and melt them to join together.
Tig welding temperature
The quick answer is 11,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tig Welding Advantages and Disadvantages
Tig Welding Advantage
TIG welding method comes with a bit of learning curves for sure, but these advantages make it one of the most versatile methods, too:
- Unlike any other welding method, the TIG welding method doesn’t use a consumable electrode. It uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode which makes almost no spatter.
- You can use a consumable rod as a filler rod by hand if necessary, but that will depend on the base metal you’re working on. You’re getting an open option to choose what filler metal you want to use.
- Pressurized shielding gas, such as Argon will protect the molten puddle on the base metal and the tungsten from oxidizing. So, you’re getting a clean, elegant weld without any chipping requirement.
- The TIG method can weld more metals than other welding methods, especially when it comes to welding thin metal sheets or mild steel. Welding in any position is another great advantage of the TIG method.
- With the TIG welding method, you will have control over the welding heat, machine amperage, amount of filler metal, and so on. You’re getting a much fewer fume, smoke, spatter while it starts to puddle.
Tig Welding Disadvantage
Although the TIG method comes with so many advantages and makes it easier to weld complex metal, there are some downsides, too. Such as:
- With the TIG method, you have to weld only on clean metals, dirty or metals with corrosion won’t have a good relationship with the TIG tungsten.
- TIG welding method also has a lower deposition rate, so you cannot go quicker on the pass; you must follow the given pace for the weld.
- This process also requires a greater amount of skill and experience with a good dexterity to land a perfect weld on the base with the TIG welding method.
- Unlike other welding methods, the TIG welding method requires you to use both your hands for the gun and the filler which means you cannot hold on the base metal with your hand.
What is the best TIG welder for the money?
FAQ
What is the best TIG welder for a beginner?
The Everlast Power I-TIG 201 TIG Welder is by far the easiest TIG welding machine that a beginner could start his journey with. This machine also features a Stick welding capability to work with.
What is a good cheap TIG welder?
The Amico TIG 160 Amp Stick DC welder is a very good welder at a very low price and the Everlast Power I-TIG welder is a value for the money with a slightly higher price.
What type of welding is the easiest?
MIG welding method is by far the easiest welding method that a beginner can start working with. It has very little learning curves to start working with; all it needs you to know is, the angle and the speed.
Which welding is the hardest?
If you’re a beginner in the welding job, you may find the TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding method the hardest at the beginning. However, after a few sessions of practice, the method starts to make a scene and you will start getting perfection.
What is the most dangerous type of welding?
The TIG welding method has a dangerous side you should be aware of. As you need to hold the working tools with two hands and become the closest to the flame, it can be dangerous if you become absentminded while welding.
Conclusion
Starting with the welding job might seem an overwhelming thing to understand. Once you start to understand different welding methods, you’ll find that the TIG welding method is taking longer to understand.
However, MIG welding, being the easiest to learn cannot beat the TIG method when it comes to preciseness and cleaner weld. You’ll get almost no spatter to chip off later in the molten puddle which is a bitter truth for MIG.
If you’re working on a project that needs you to join thin sheet metal or mild steel, the TIG welding method will work the best.
When it comes to choosing the best tig welder under 1000 as a modest budget, our expert team suggests the AHP AlphaTIG 200X TIG Welder as the best overall. With all the high-end features, extended warranty, and capability of working with both AC and DC at dual voltage, it performs the best among the neighbors.