10 Best TIG Welder of 2023
Starting a fight among welding professionals and enthusiasts is easy. All you have to do is ask which TIG welder is the best on the market. The debate is pretty much endless, and we do not want beginners to get caught up in these long-winded arguments with no constructive conclusions. That’s why we used our […]
Starting a fight among welding professionals and enthusiasts is easy. All you have to do is ask which TIG welder is the best on the market.
The debate is pretty much endless, and we do not want beginners to get caught up in these long-winded arguments with no constructive conclusions. That’s why we used our time to look into multiple brands and products in search of the best-performing options.
And it was only after a lot of research and groundwork, that we ended up with the 10 best TIG welders of 2023. Also, we individually tested each item and consulted with experts in the field to gain more insights and rank them accordingly.
Without further ado, let’s get down to business.
Best TIG Welders
Here is the list of the 10 best TIG welders that you can use to easily create strong and long-lasting welds, regardless of the type of welding project you are tackling.
1. AHP AlphaTIG 200X 200 Amp IGBT AC DC Tig/Stick Welder
Our top pick is an exceptional machine, well worth the money for its broad applicability and functions. You can use the AlphaTIG 200X for home repairs, as a hobbyist welding machine, or in a welding business. So, if you’re looking for a reliable unit that can handle multiple jobs, we suggest going for this item.
- High visibility LCD screen
- will do 1/4" aluminum and 3/8" mild stee and 110/220 volts...
Why Did We Like It?
The first thing you will notice about this unit is the fact that it provides both AC and DC output. Honestly, that’s a significant plus, coupled with an amperage output range of 10A to 200A. Even though it doesn’t provide the best performance at low amperage, it’s still good enough to weld ¼” thick aluminum.
Since it also features a DC output, this TIG machine enables users to weld steel as well as a whole range of other metals. Furthermore, this machine includes pulse width modulation to give you complete control over the amount of power that goes to the workpiece.
Furthermore, we like the high-frequency, non-touch torch on this unit, enabling the seamless formation of arcs every time without contamination or struggle. The welder comes with a finger switch if you prefer not to use the foot pedal and a host of other accessories for an improved user experience.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The AlphaTIG 200X is a worthy contestant for our top spot as it provides a number of settings and features to meet multiple welding scenarios. However, our only gripe is that it does not have a good-quality earth clamp. Regardless, it is still one of the best options on the market and will serve you well in the long run.
- Amperage output range of 10A to 200A
- Comes with a high-frequency, non-touch torch
- Features a handy finger switch to substitute the foot pedal
- Pulse width modulation for perfect arcs
- Poor quality earth clamp
2. Everlast PowerTig 255EXT TIG-Welder
For our second position, we’ve selected a model from a relatively new brand – Everlast Welders. Although they haven’t been around for long, their PowerTIG inverter-based model is much ahead in the race of other products from established manufacturers. Like our top model, this item also provides AC and DC outputs and a range of other features.
- Digital microprocessor control
- Heavy Duty High Frequency design reduces maintenance issues...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, this unit is a reliable companion for professionals on the move as it weighs only 85 lbs, owing to its compact dimensions. If portability is high on your priority list, we recommend buying this item as you can work on multiple projects on different sites.
Function-wise, the 255EXT model offers High Pulse Frequency capability, which reduces overall heat input to produce top-notch weld quality without any burning or warping. Furthermore, it comes equipped with a 12 ft. Economy WP 18 series TIG torch with DINSE 35/70 style connectors and a quick-connect gas fitting for convenient setup.
Since it offers dual voltage phases of 120V and 240V along with low amp operation, you can customize the power flow depending on individual applications. Besides the exclusive Easy Start option for both AC and DC operations, the welder features a digital display for precise amperage setting and improved control of other functions.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We are very pleased with the overall performance of this inverter-based unit and especially liked the add-on features that provide a better user experience. However, the welder struggles with thicker pieces of metal, and honestly, that could be a major inconvenience for some professionals. Nevertheless, it’s still a good choice for high-quality welding.
- High pulse frequency minimizes heat input
- Features a 12 ft. Economy WP 18 series TIG torch
- Easy start option for both AC and DC operation
- Digital display supports precise amperage settings and improved control
- Welder struggles with thick pieces of metal
3. Miller Electric DC Maxstar 150 STL TIG Welder
If budget is not a major concern and you would prefer a top-of-the-line welding machine, then Miller’s Electric Maxstar 150 STL TIG Welder is an excellent choice. Also, it’s one of the best premium options on the market and worthy of the third spot on our list, primarily for its high performance and versatility.
- It has dc inverter with lift arc features
- Stick, TIG application
Why Did We Like It?
Miller Electric has done a great job with this unit, and we’re very impressed with its versatile range of functions. For starters, this TIG machine can be used on different metals, including steel, and is also characterized by dual functionalities, allowing you to switch between TIG and stick applications.
However, what appealed to us most is the model’s remarkable portability, owing to its DC inverter technology. It weighs about 13.7 lbs and is a snap to transport to various welding locations without tiring the arms. Besides, it comes with a shoulder strap for convenience while carrying the unit.
You can use the Maxstar either with 115V or 230V, which adds greater flexibility for home and professional applications. Besides, you can quickly switch from one to the other using the MVP plug. Another feature that drew our attention is its thermal overload protection, which actually makes it a cost-effective option as the fan automatically minimizes power consumption and heat.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We recommend this option for both DIY use and workshop applications, as it’s quite easy to use and performs the job without a lot of hassles. However, given the price, we would’ve preferred if the unit came with the foot pedal as buying it separately further adds to the cost.
- Extremely portable and lightweight welding machine
- Thermal overload protection minimizes power consumption
- Comes with a shoulder strap for easier transport
- Dual functionalities of TIG and stick applications
- Product does not come with the foot pedal
4. Lincoln Electric Precision TIG 225 K2535-2
If you’re looking for a reliable machine that can be passed down to the next generation, put your money in the Lincoln Electric Precision TIG 225 K2535. Our fourth item is a powerhouse and is efficient in both TIG and stick welding. Although it is slightly on the expensive side, with proper use and maintenance, it’s sure to last, yielding your money’s worth.
- 5-230 amps is the Wst welding range in its class
- Built-in TIG pulsar helps control heat input in the weld
Why Did We Like It?
First things first, we recommend this unit to beginners in the field of welding as it has all the functions and features that can help individuals train for professional use. And the best part is that this unit is suitable for almost every metal, including light metals like magnesium, iron, and even aluminum and thick stainless steel.
Furthermore, this welder has an adjustable voltage with a maximum of 230V. Plus, it incorporates MicroStar Technology, enabling a low amperage start, ideal for light-duty tasks. Conversely, If you need the machine for heavy-duty applications, simply release the full voltage throttle for optimum capacity and results.
Moreover, you can use the machine continuously at 90 amperes since it has a 100% duty cycle. However, the rate declines with an increase in input power for both direct and alternative currents. Overall, this Lincoln Electric TIG welder is an exceptional product that will serve you well while mastering advanced skills.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Unlike our previous item, this TIG welder is considerably heavy, clocking in at 240 lbs. Therefore, transporting this bulky unit is quite a challenge, and we would suggest using this for fixed-position applications only. So if you intend on buying this, make sure to arrange for a dedicated storage space first.
- Works on magnesium, iron, aluminum, and stainless steel
- MicroStar technology supports low-amperage start
- Complete duty cycle at 90 A
- Ideal for beginners looking to advance their skills
- Item is too bulky and difficult to transport
5. Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD ACDC 200 Amp Tig/Stick Welder
Not all of us have the budget to buy a high-end dual-output TIG welder, but that doesn’t mean we’ve to compromise on quality and performance. That’s where the Weldpro Digital TIG/Stick Welder comes into the picture as this high utility unit offers several features, including AC/DC output, at a fraction of the cost.
- Weldpro's flagship 200 amp AC/DC TIG welder that goes beyond...
- The model 200 is also a digital designed TIG welder equipped...
Why Did We Like It?
As professionals, we understand the need for powerful units with an affordable price tag, that’s why we included this reliable option on our list. However, the low cost is not the only good thing about this model as we find it exceptionally useful for multiple welding applications, requiring high precision and results.
For starters, this inverter-based welder combines IGBT circuits along with PWM technology for increased efficiency and reduced dimensions. Furthermore, The 200GD model features a 40% duty cycle at full amperage for DC TIG and a 60% duty cycle for AC TIG.
This essentially allows users to choose DC welding for stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, and many other metals. Likewise, they can also switch over to AC welding, which works great with aluminum and aluminum alloys.
However, the machine comes equipped with a standard Euro-style torch which, although may not be on par with a CK Superflex Torch, works fine. Lastly, it features a high-quality foot pedal, allowing a seamless change in amperage while welding.
What Could’ve Been Better?
We obviously do not expect this product to handle any heavy-duty applications like commercial-grade units. Nevertheless, we would have liked it better if it came with a finger switch for higher amperage control. Other than that, we recommend buying a CK Superflex torch if you find the Euro-style torch difficult to operate.
- IGBT circuits coupled with PWM technology increase overall efficiency
- DC welding option works with stainless steel, carbon steel, and copper
- AC welding is suitable for aluminum and its alloys
- High-quality foot pedal for better amperage control
- Does not come with a finger switch
6. Lotos LTPDC2000D Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Tig Welder
What if you had one machine that could do the job of the three? Well, the Lotos LTPDC2000D could not get any more multipurpose as it offers users a combination of TIG and stick welder along with a pilot arc plasma cutter. This unique device lets you perform three functions with the help of one portable machine, designed for high performance and desired results.
