6 Best TIG Welders Under $1000: Reviewed & Compared

TIG welding is a process of arc welding with a non-consumable tungsten electrode. It’s a popular practice for combining various types of metals.

While finding a machine isn’t difficult, it can be tough to search out the best TIG welder under 1000. That’s why we’ve put together the top 6 TIG models to consider.

How TIG Welders Work & Why Use One?

TIG welding is often more challenging to learn than MIG welding, but it provides more versatility. TIG welders also offer more control over the welds, leading to a professional job.

TIG welding allows you to work with metals as thin as 26-gauge. That will enable you to work with sheet metal without a problem. There are numerous benefits to using a TIG welder, including:

How To Choose A TIG Welder Under $1000

Type of Material

TIG welders can work with a variety of materials. Whether you are looking to work with aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, magnesium, nickel, or copper, you will find a machine that's suitable for your job. Look at not only the material but the thickness you need to weld to ensure you have the required power.

Power Needs

As far as the input power is concerned, you will need to decide if you are running the TIG welder off of a household outlet or something larger, such as the 240V. You will get more power with the latter, but it will be harder to take the machine on the go. Additionally, evaluate both the output amperage and AC vs. DC compatibility to ensure you have what you need.

Optional Process Modifications

Pulse width modification permits you to adjust the weld bead width. With this feature, you can easily control the welding experience. Additionally, you might want high-frequency arc starts to begin without touching your work. However, this feature can interfere with some computers, phones, and CNC machinery.

Accessories

With each accessory you buy, you gain more versatility, but also increase the price. Most welders don't come with the water coolers, heat control pedals, and flow meter-type gas regulators, but you can easily add them on. Evaluate what you will need before making a purchase to ensure you can get it with your machine.

Feed Rate & Duty Cycle

The feed rate and the duty cycle of the TIG welder tells you how quickly and efficiently the work will be accomplished. Evaluate the wire feed rate and the duty cycle. When looking at duty cycles, remember this number tells you how long the machine can run without needing to cool down.

Thermal Overload Protection

With advanced safety features, you ensure that your welder will last over time and keep you protected. One such feature is thermal overload protection. This protection ensures that the machine won’t get overloaded to the point of damage. Instead, it will shut itself off in an effort to last longer.

Gas Cylinders

When dealing with TIG welding, you want to use 100% argon gas for the best results. However, the gas cylinders and gas itself don’t often come with the welder. This is an added expense that you will want to factor in as you consider what you are willing to spend.

Price & Warranty

When you find the best TIG welder under $1000, you save money. However, you don't want to cut the budget too low that you get a dud. Instead, look for a machine from a reputable manufacturer that also provides a lengthy warranty for your protection. This way, you ensure the best value for your money.

1. PRIMEWELD TIG225X

You might not have heard of PRIMEWELD before, but the company continues to get rave reviews. This 225 amp TIG/stick welder comes with a durable construction and plenty of features you need to get the job done. It includes a pulse function that is ideal for use with aluminum, thinner metals, and stainless steel. This welder also includes a 17 Series Superflex TIG torch complete with a flex head and a CK Superflex hose and CK Dinse connector.

With this welder, expect to work with 1/4-inch aluminum and 3/8-inch mild steel.  According to customer reviews, welders have found plenty of success with this model. It's also simple enough for beginners to use. However, it is a heavier model. With that in mind, you might not want to take the welder on the go with you. Instead, find a good spot for it in your workshop.

The best part about this machine is the warranty. PRIMEWELD provides a three-year warranty. Additionally, there is seven-day a week customer support, all provided in the United States. This is something that isn’t always seen with the budget-friendly TIG welders. These are just some of the reasons this welder is listed as our top pick; the benefits could go on.

2. AHP AlphaTIG 200X

Around the same price point, you can find this AHP TIG welder. It is quite similar to the previous model in capability and features. On pulse and AC frequency, this TIG welder operates at 200 HZ. It also features a brand-new torch design for more versatility. With this welder, you can expect to work with 1/4-inch aluminum, as well as 3/8-inch mild steel and other materials. Use it with your 110- or 220-volt outlet.

With the Advanced Inverter Technology combined with Pulse Width Modulation, you get more of what you are looking for from a high-quality welder. Plus, it offers a foot pedal for more control and precision. The most significant difference compared to the previous model is the weight. This model is lightweight and compact, making it simple to take it on the go.

The customer reviews are also high and continue to prove that this model deserves to be at the top of our list. In addition, this company offers a three-year warranty for further protection. With a duty cycle of 60% at 200A, you will have all of the capability you need to work on small and large projects. We recommend this for the hobbyist and professional user alike.

3. Lincoln Electric LE31MP

Lincoln Electric continues to be a leader in the welding industry, so it’s no wonder we would have one of the machines on our list. At first glance, you might think this is simply a MIG welder, but it has multi-purpose functions that allow you to use it either way. With this versatility, you can get more work done with ease. Plus, it includes a fully adjustable drive system that reduces the chance of wire crushing or tangling.

When working with extended welds, you will appreciate the 60% duty cycle. Additionally, you can add an optional TIG torch to utilize the internal gas solenoid when the arc is initiated. This machine runs off 120-volt input power, making it simple to operate anywhere you have a household outlet. Use it for your thin gauge steel, aluminum, or stainless steel.

Compared with most TIG welders, this model is lightweight and compact. If you plan to use your welder on the go, you will appreciate the design. Plus, the company adds a three-year warranty, affording you the maximum protection. However, with the durable cast aluminum gearbox, it doesn’t seem like you will have much to worry about. Fans of Lincoln Electric equipment will be pleased with the results this welder produces.

4. Lotos TIG200ACDC

If you want a budget-friendly TIG welder, this LOTOS machine might be what you are looking for. It is a 200A AC/DC TIG welder that works with aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. You can also weld thin materials with complete precision. With the HF start hand torch control and the foot pedal welding heat control, you get exactly what you want from this model. 

Expect to receive an easy ARC start, a deep weld pool, perfect welding shape, and a stable arc with all of your projects. Additionally, it features an advanced cooling system to deliver maximum performance. With the dual-voltage frequency, you can use a standard household outlet or run it off of a 220V source instead. Inside the package, you get the TIG torch, foot pedal, converter pigtail, consumable set, ground clamp, argon regulator, and MMA/stick clamp.

At just 58 pounds, this lightweight machine can be used anywhere. While the customer reviews say positive things about the machine, we have to point out the lower one-year warranty. This is far less than the other companies but helps to keep the price as low as possible. From what we know, there's no reason to worry about the quality or life of this welder.

5. Weldpro Digital

This flagship model from Weldpro is a top-of-the-line option in this price range. The 200 amp AC/DC TIG welder handles more than just your simple aluminum and steel. With the digital design, you have more versatility than with other options. Plus, this welder is equipped with the TIG welding features found on industrial-grade models.

With the professional rocker style foot pedal, you get amperage control without any interruptions. It's also available with an optional CK Superflex cable and a 17F torch that features an independent trigger switch. With the MMA stick welding function and stinger included, you can do more than you would have thought. The dual-voltage welder is only 61 pounds, so you can carry it with you wherever you go.

As a professional-minded welder, there's a lot more that you can accomplish with this machine than initially expected. That's why it is such a great value for the money. Plus, the company puts a two-year warranty on the welder.

With this peace of mind and exceptional reviews, you can rest easy knowing that your jobs will be done right the first time.  If you need to keep the price low, but still want a machine that's going to work hard, we recommend this unit.

Comparing TIG vs. MIG Welders

TIG Welding Usage & Safety Tips

Here are a few TIG welding tips to follow as you get started.

We also recommend watching some instructional YouTube videos. Here’s one regarding the basics of TIG welding.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What other accessories do I need for welding with a TIG welding machine?

When using your TIG welder, consider the other accessories you will need for proper operation. These accessories could include PPE, contact tips, gas nozzles, tungsten rods, and electrodes.

What size TIG welder do I need?

This depends on what materials you are welding and how quickly you need to work. Evaluate the jobs you have to do and opt for a machine that can handle more than those requirements.

What should I expect from a TIG welder under $1000?

TIG welders can cost several thousands of dollars, especially if you want something industrial-grade. However, if you are only welding occasionally or for your hobby projects, you can get away with one of the models under $1,000. These will feature a shorter duty cycle and won’t work on as many materials as the higher-end welders.

Can you TIG weld with a plasma cutter?

The TIG welder and plasma cutter are two different tools. The TIG welder melts metals together, but the plasma cutter is used to make precise cuts along one piece of metal.

Can you TIG weld without gas?

TIG welding requires 100% argon gas to create a clean process. If you weren’t to use gas, you would burn the Tungsten, contaminate your weld and struggle to get penetration into your work.

What are the most popular brands of TIG Welders, and where can I find them?

Amazon has the best selection of TIG welders. Amazon carries the best brands, including PRIMEWELD, Lincoln Electric, LOTOS, and more.

Conclusion