Tungsten Inert gas welding, popularly known as TIG welding, is one of the most complex processes to master. The typical TIG welder would need to have hours of practice to achieve the levels required to be a TIG welder.
It doesn’t help that TIG welder machines are some of the most expensive equipment out there. It might cost upwards of 1000 dollars. We have, however, come up with a list of the TIG welders under 1000.
If you were looking for the best ac/dc TIG welder under 1000, then you are at the right place. We will highlight the best five with their features to ensure you have an easy decision to make.
Let’s get right on with it.
Our top TIG welder under $1000
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225 Amp |
| Check Price on Amazon!On Home Depot |
 | Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC |
| Check Price on Amazon! |
 | Lotos 200A AC/DC Aluminum Welder |
| Check Price on Amazon!On Home Depot |
 | Aluminum Welder AC/DC 200 Amp |
| Check Price on Amazon! |
 | AHP AlphaTIG 200X |
| Check Price on Amazon!On Home Depot |
A Quick Comparison: What is the best TIG Welder under 1000?
1. Best For Steel Welding – PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225
The Primeweld TIG225X 225 is a powerful 22-amp welder if you are looking for a stick welder. It has a tough stainless-steel build that will enable it to serve you for a long time.
2. Best For AC/DC Welding – Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD
The Weldpro is a 200amp machine that boasts a 3-year warranty and the ability to work on various metals apart from aluminum and stainless steel. The extended warranty period means you have a guarantee it won’t malfunction soon after buying.
3. Best For Dual Voltage Welder – LOTOS TIG200ACDC 200A
Like the Weldpro the Lotos is also a 200amp TIG welding machine. It is specifically ideal for precise welding and other kinds of welding. It also has a stick welder and dual voltage input.
4. Best Aluminum Welding – SunGold Power Welder
This welder is specifically good on Aluminium and also allows you to do stick welding. Apart from aluminum, it can also work on precise welding and thin welding.
5. Best Professional Fabricator – 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200X
This machine comes with an LCD screen that takes welding to the next level. The advanced inverter technology is also quite top-shelf.
Check unbiased product reviews after 48 hours of research
A. Best For Steel Welding – PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225
A pulse CK 17, a cabled flex torch and 225 amps of welding power. Those are just a few of the features that catapult the Primeweld to the top of our list.
If you are looking for a welding machine that will guarantee you precise heat control, hand torch control, and a high pulse frequency, you can’t do any better than choosing this welder.
Key features
1. Duty cycle
Duty cycle refers to how long a welding machine will safely operate at a particular amperage without hindering the user’s safety. That is often measured in percentage. It is, therefore, a vital feature to look for in a welding machine because it determines how long you can use the welding machine before it needs cooling.
At 120V, this welding machine has duty cycles of TIG 40% at 140, 100% at 108
MMA 40%at 120, and 100% at 76.
At 240 v, it has the below percentages:
TIG 40% at 225, 100% at 155, MMA 40% at180, and 100% at139. This shows you that this is quite safe to use.
Related: The 5 best watch for welders. Check here!
2. Voltage
The Primeweld welding machine has a dual voltage of 120v and 240 V. That gives this machine the ability to work in commercial settings and domestic use. The dual input voltages also mean you increase the capacity of the welding machine to work on different materials.
3. Welding types and capacity
The ideal welding machine should have several welding options. That means you should be able to use any type of welding you want. This machine comes with stick welding capabilities, enabling you to weld different metals from aluminum to thin metals.
Its 225-amp capacity enables it to weld stainless steel and other metals quite easily. You can therefore complete your tasks faster.
4. Technology
The advanced inverter technology is coupled with pulse width modulation will ensure you work to the highest welding standards possible.
Furthermore, the inverter technology is enhanced with IGBT technology. Although not every expert’s choice, inverter technology makes it possible for this welder to work on different types of metals, from mild steel to thin metals.
5. High-Frequency Start
This welder also has a high-frequency start, which enables you to start it easily. Additionally, the foot pedal and hand torch control make it possible to control the heat as you wish.
Related: The TIG Welder Plasma Cutter Combo Insight
Pros
- It is easy to use thanks to features such as the precise foot pedal
- It is a quality machine thanks to professional features it comes with
- The inverter technology enables you to work on a variety of welding options
- The dual voltage makes it possible to work on a huge range of welding options
Keep in mind
This is a relatively expensive piece of equipment. Therefore, if you aren’t using it commercially, then it wouldn’t make sense to get it.
Also, the advanced inverter technology, although rife, isn’t as good as a welder with transformers.
Check Price on AmazonPrice on Home Depot
B. Best For AC/DC Welding – Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD
The Weldpro is a quality welding machine that will impress you with its versatility. The Weldpro prides itself on its ability to go beyond welding just steel and aluminum. Although it is quite affordable, it wields TIG welding capabilities that would be more common in machines higher up the price range.
It boasts an excellent rocker-style quality pedal that allows you to control the amperage without much problem. Additionally, its fully adjustable pulse means you can work at a speed comfortable for you.
Key features
1. Welding capabilities
The Weldpro is a full MMA stick welder that allows you the flexibility to work on almost any welding job. Apart from aluminum, you can also weld stainless steel with it.
You will also love that you can do stick welding or HIF TIG welding. That, in essence, makes it a good option for heavy-duty jobs.
2. Inverter technology
This welder’s technology allows it to add about 30 percent to its efficiency. It has advanced inverter technology, which increases the range of welding jobs you can take on.
With the IGBT circuits, you can easily raise the efficiency levels to a sophisticated welding machine.
3. What’s the duty cycles
The Weldpro has a 60% duty rating on Alternate Current and 40% for Direct current. You have the option of using either DC or AC when welding.
AC is a good option if you are dealing with metals such as stainless steel or carbon steel. DC is best for lighter welding options such as aluminum.
4. Electrode holder
The Primeweld is equipped with a 200A electrode holder. That enables you to quickly connect cables onto the welder for a faster welding process.
5. What’s the voltage
Like the welding machine before it, you also get to enjoy the efficiency of the dual voltage of 220 and 110 volts. You can easily switch between the two voltages to ramp up the speed.
Pros
- It has a super-flex torch that boosts visibility when working
- The full-function TIG features make it quite efficient
- The fully adjustable pulse and sloping functions make it easier to use
- It comes with a fully functional foot pedal that makes controlling it easier
Keep in mind
It struggles to keep an arc when using it in 110v-220V, especially when working on metals over half an inch. Reducing the weld distance could be an option here, but it won’t help that much.
We also didn’t like that it focuses more on TIG welding than on other welding types. That’s because it isn’t that good at stick welding.
Where are weldpro welders made?
Some welders are made in the United States, while others are manufactured in China. There are many factors that go into choosing the location of manufacturing for a product, including cost of production and proximity to suppliers. There are certain welding jobs that require particular qualities of welders, such as high-duty ones that can weld up to 2 inches thick steel or aluminum without preheating the material.
Are weldpro welders any good?
While the weldpro welders are more expensive than most other brands, they are of a higher quality. The weldpro welder is a professional-grade product that is made for heavy-duty use. It is a great choice for someone who needs to do a lot of welding and wants a high-quality product.
C. Best For Dual Voltage Welder – LOTOS TIG200ACDC 200A
The Lotos TIG welding machine boasts a 200A Alternating Current square converter that provides you with an impressive capacity to weld even the toughest metals.
Key features
1. Output
The Lotos TIG welding machine has a power output of 200 Amps on electric current output. That helps ensure you get the best welding quality, be it on thin gauge sheet materials or mild steel.
It also makes it easier to work on different metals including stainless steel as well as for precise welding. The precise welding is made possible by the high-frequency start hand torch.
2. Stick and MMA welding
When using this welding machine, you also get to try out the 15-200AMP DC Stick or MMA welding. With the easy arc start, you can easily attain stable welding to develop beautiful welding shapes.
3. Cooling system
With an advanced cooling function, you can be sure to reduce overheating when using it. The PAPST cooling system will ensure the welder’s plasma cutter is working at a high level.
High temperatures in a welder are a given and might even be the result of foot pedal heat.
4. Voltage
Dual voltage is a sure way to enable you to have better weld penetration because you can switch between two voltages. This welder has an automatic dual voltage that matches the dual-frequency.
A pigtail will enable you to use the machine on either of the dual voltages.
5. Aluminum welding
This welding machine is adept at aluminum welding. That’s thanks in significant part to the precise foot pedal that enables you to control the heat the welder gives out.
Pros
- It is ideal for beginners getting started with TIG welding.
- Advanced control features make it easier to use.
- The control pedal makes heat control easier, making it more efficient in aluminum welding.
- It is an affordable welder.
Why we didn’t like it?
Although it is an excellent aluminum welder for beginners to ease themselves into TIG welding, the controls could be pretty complicated to figure out. An experienced welder, on the other hand, wouldn’t have much trouble with it. They, however, would have issues striking an arc when stick welding.
Check Price on AmazonPrice on Home Depot
D. Best Aluminum Welding – Sungold Power Welder
Next on our list is this combo welder that would make any flexible welder proud. The welding quality is topnotch, and its durability is sure to impress you. However, you would do well to steer clear of it if you are only welding as a hobby.
SunGold makes quality products, and this machine does not veer from the script.
Key Features
1. Four-in-one combination
What immediately strikes you with this is the multifunctional capabilities. That is because it combines four different functions in aluminum welding, making it the ideal product for a flexible welder.
Arch welding, TIG welding, and foot pedal control ensure you get the steady output needed to weld through various materials.
2. Digital control
Another standout feature is the digital controls that come with this machine. The digital control makes it easier to achieve continuous welds by giving you professional-level control of the welding machine.
3. Foot pedal control
The foot pedal control should be an essential feature of any welder. That is because it enables you to achieve a higher level of accuracy. Higher levels of accuracy mean high-quality welds.
4. Digital display
Isn’t it refreshing to see a welding machine with a digital display in this age of regular digital revolution? If you are the kind of welder to desire artistic welds, a digital display will make it easier for you to achieve that.
The digital display will give you a higher level of control, making it effortless to get your desired artistic welds. A digital display will also aid you in getting cleaner welds.
5. Duty cycle
As you must know by now, the duty cycle has a tremendous effect on the level of efficiency you will be able to coax from your machine. That being said, this machine comes with a duty cycle of 60%.
That should be enough for you to work on medium-level welding jobs.
Pros
- It has a digital display that shows you the amps input and other settings.
- You get to regulate all the sloping functions.
- It features the latest transistor technology, which boosts the quality of welds.
- The AC TIG function makes it easier to weld alloys.
Keep in mind
Although it costs under 1000, it still is way up there in price. Hobbyist welders would be better off staying away from this one. Also, the many features and controls might be complex for a beginner to grasp.
D. Best Professional Fabricator – 2018 AHP AlphaTIG 200X
Rounding up our list is the AHP welding 200X machine that boasts an LCD screen that will give you the full controls. It has an extended warranty of 3 years which means you won’t have to worry about the replacement soon after buying.
Key Features
1. Welding capabilities
This welding machine can effortlessly weld 3/8-inch mild steel in addition to 6013 and 7018. That isn’t surprising seen that it has a frequency of 200Hz on the pulse and Alternating current (AC).
The high welding capacity gives you the freedom to try out different welding styles. Furthermore, the adjustable AC balance also adds to its efficiency.
2. Technology
The smartboard technology that comes with the welding machine will make using it seems like a breeze to you. Coupled with the LCD screen that makes it easier for you to work the controls, you can bet this is a high-quality machine.
The advanced inverter and IGBT technology also add to the ease of using this welder.
3. Foot pedal
Unlike other welding machines, you don’t have to use the foot pedal controls in this machine if you don’t want to. That’s because the 2T/4T Sequencer function works with programmable functions to ensure you control the machine effortlessly.
You can thus weld in any position of your liking thanks to functions such as post flow control.
4. Input voltage
You will get to either work with the 110V or 220 input voltages when using this welding machine. With the high-frequency start, the dual voltage input could come in handy, providing safe welding, especially when dealing with a weld puddle.
5. User friendliness
The AlphaTIG is a user-friendly machine that anyone can use. Beginners wouldn’t have too many issues welding 1/8-inch steel or working with lighter products.
It is a competent model that aims to have the user get as positive an experience as possible. Its range of settings, such as the option to not use the pedal, tap into this user-friendliness.
Pros
- It comes with features that give you advanced functions.
- You can avoid using the foot pedal and thus prevent overheating from foot pedal heat.
- It is the prime choice for beginners.
- 60% duty cycle for 200amps.
Keep in mind
A lower price will often mean cheaper parts. There are certain parts in this welder that might not stand the test of time. However, that doesn’t we are faulting more affordable products. It, however, could be a prime choice, especially when you consider the price.
Another thing you will want to remember is that the foot pedal might not be that efficient. Although it works smoothly, it isn’t that ergonomic.
Check Price on AmazonPrice on Home Depot
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q. What is slope function in a welding machine?
Ans: This refers to the voltage drop rate with an increase in amperage when using a welding machine.
Q. What size of tungsten electrode should I consider when choosing a Tungsten electrode?
Ans: The best option here is to go for the smallest size. 1/8-inch tungsten will help weld most metals.
Q. What does stick welding ability have to do with the efficiency of a welding machine?
Ans: Stick welding is an excellent feature in a welding machine since it makes it easier to weld joints, metal alloys, or drafty areas. It is also quite economical.
Q. Which TIG welder is appropriate for complicated welding jobs?
Ans: Delicate and complicated welding jobs require a high-quality welder such as the Primeweld welding machine. It has advanced features that ensure you can do almost any welding job.
Conclusion
We hope you now have an idea of what the best TIG welders are. The ease of welding should play an essential role in the welder you choose. Fortunately, the welders on our list are relatively easy to use.
Happy welding.
Related Post
- TOOLIOM Welder Review – I Am Really Excited About It!
- Try these 3 Best Work Light for Welding
- Best 110v Stick Welder That’ll Upgrade Your Welding Skill A Bit
- Best Fire Extinguisher for Welding – Our Recommendations
- What Best Welder For 1/2 Inch Steel I Would Choose To Have
- Best Welder For Car Frames – Editor’s Pick
- Best Welder For Motorcycle Frame – Check Editor’s Pick!
- Best Welder For Chassis Fabric – Top Picks
- Wire Feed Welders Reviews
- What Is The Ideal Plasma Cutter MIG Welder Combo?
- Best flux core welder under $300
