Best TIG Welders for The Money - Top AC/DC Models

Eastwood Elite 200 LCD Digital AC/DC TIG Welder

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The Eastwood Elite 200 LCD Digital AC/DC TIG Welder offers exceptional arc stability and a range of professional features at a competitive price. Its user-friendly design and portability make it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned welders.

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• Brand:

  Eastwood

• Model:

  Eastwood Elite 200 LCD Digital AC/DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$

• Adjustability:

  AC TIG/Pulse, AC Frequency Control, Programmable Settings, Adjustable Pre & Post Flow

• Value:

  Excellent value for money

• Build Quality:

  Good build quality but not 'elite'

• Reliability:

  No-Hassle service, 3-year warranty included

• User Friendliness:

  User-friendly LCD screen, Highly portable at just 34 lbs

The Eastwood Elite 200 LCD Digital AC/DC TIG Welder is a standout product in the welding market, offering a blend of advanced features and user-friendly design. One of the most notable aspects of this welder is its exceptional arc stability, which ensures smooth and precise welds every time. The large, intuitive LCD screen makes it incredibly easy to operate, even for those who are new to TIG welding. Additionally, its lightweight and portable design, weighing just 34 lbs, allows for easy transportation and use in various settings.

This welder is packed with features that make it a versatile tool for a wide range of welding tasks. It supports both AC/DC TIG and stick welding, and includes advanced functionalities like pulsed TIG and memory settings for saving your favorite configurations. These features make it a strong competitor to other models like the Lincoln Electric Square Wave TIG 200 and the VULCAN ProTIG 205, but at a more attractive price point. The inclusion of high-quality accessories, such as a flex-head torch, further enhances its value, making it an excellent investment for both hobbyists and professionals.

While the Eastwood Elite 200 offers great value, it's important to note some of its limitations. The duty cycle is limited to 20% at 200A, which may not be sufficient for lengthy, single-pass welds on thicker metals. Additionally, while the build quality is solid, it may not fully live up to the 'elite' branding. There are also minor design flaws in the instruction manual and the absence of a Voltage Reduction Device (VRD). Despite these drawbacks, the welder's overall performance, combined with a generous 3-year warranty and no-hassle service, makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to explore the world of TIG welding.

Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder

4.5 WeldWins Rating

The Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder is a versatile and reliable welding machine perfect for hobbyists, craftsmen, and small fabricators. With its user-friendly interface and advanced features, it offers excellent value and performance for both beginners and experienced welders.

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• Brand:

  Lincoln Electric

• Model:

  Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$$$

• Adjustability:

  AC balance control for TIG cleaning

• Value:

  Trusted TIG favorite for hobbyists, craftsmen, artists and small fabricators

• Build Quality:

  Industrial build quality

• Warranty:

  3-year warranty

• User Friendliness:

  Easy for beginners with advanced features to take advantage of as experience grows

The Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder stands out as a trusted favorite among hobbyists, craftsmen, artists, and small fabricators. Its industrial build quality ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for various welding projects. One of the key features is its AC balance control, which significantly improves the cleanliness of welds, especially when working with aluminum. This welder is designed to be user-friendly, making it an excellent option for beginners while still offering advanced features that more experienced welders can take advantage of as their skills grow.

One of the standout features of this welder is its excellent heat control, thanks to the 20 pulses per second capability. This allows for smoother and more precise welds, which is crucial for achieving professional-quality results. The high-frequency no-touch arc starting is another notable feature, providing a more efficient and cleaner start to your welding process. Additionally, the included foot controller and high-quality regulator add to the overall convenience and ease of use, making your welding tasks more manageable and enjoyable.

While the Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder excels in many areas, it does have a few limitations. It lacks some advanced features such as pre & post flow control, an LCD screen, memory function, and adjustable pulse ratio. Moreover, it operates only with a foot pedal, which might be a drawback for some users. Despite these minor cons, the welder's performance and reliability more than make up for these shortcomings. The 3-year warranty provided by Lincoln Electric offers additional peace of mind, ensuring that you are covered in case of any issues.

Overall, the Lincoln Electric 200 AC/DC TIG Welder offers exceptional value for its price. Its combination of user-friendliness, advanced features, and industrial build quality makes it a top choice for anyone looking to invest in a reliable and efficient welding machine. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced welder, this machine provides the tools and capabilities needed to produce high-quality welds, making it a worthwhile addition to your workshop.

Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder

4.7 WeldWins Rating

The Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder offers an exceptional blend of versatility and performance, making it an ideal choice for both hobbyists and professionals. With its wide amperage range and high-quality components, this welder ensures smooth and precise welding experiences.

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• Brand:

  Primeweld

• Model:

  Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$

• Adjustability:

  Pulse Width Modulation, 200 hertz pulse frequency

• Value:

  Versatile and easy to use mix of features for its price range

• Build Quality:

  Inverter powered, High frequency arc starting

• Reliability:

  3-year warranty, highly rated US-based customer service

• User Satisfaction:

  Owners rave about the welding quality

The Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder stands out in its class due to its impressive versatility and ease of use. Featuring pulse width modulation and a 200 hertz pulse frequency, this welder provides a smooth and controlled welding experience. The wide amperage range from 10 to 225 amps allows users to tackle a variety of projects, from delicate 24 gauge sheet metal to robust ½-inch metal plates. This flexibility makes it a valuable tool for both beginners and seasoned welders.

One of the key highlights of the TIG225X is its build quality and reliability. The inverter-powered high frequency arc starting ensures consistent performance, while the 100 percent duty cycle at 108 amps allows for continuous welding on ⅛-inch metal. Additionally, the welder boasts a 40 percent duty cycle at full power, providing ample power for more demanding tasks. Primeweld backs this machine with a 3-year warranty and highly rated US-based customer service, giving users peace of mind and support when needed.

The TIG225X comes equipped with a high-quality CK17 US-made torch, a durable metal foot pedal, and a regulator, all of which contribute to a superior welding experience. The option to upgrade to a water-cooled torch further enhances its capabilities. Despite its higher cost compared to other models in its class, the welder's performance and features justify the investment. Owners consistently praise the welding quality and the excellent packaging, although some have reported issues with the included flowmeter. Primeweld's commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that any issues are promptly addressed.

Overall, the Primeweld TIG225X AC/DC TIG Welder is a top-tier choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile welding machine. Its combination of advanced features, robust build quality, and exceptional customer support make it a standout option in the market. Whether you're a hobbyist or a professional, this welder is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Everlast 255EXT AC/DC TIG Welder

4.6 WeldWins Rating

The Everlast 255EXT AC/DC TIG Welder is a versatile and powerful welding machine designed for both novice and experienced welders. With its multiple AC waveforms, high-frequency no-touch arc start, and a 100 percent duty cycle at rated power, this welder ensures precision and reliability for all your welding projects.

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• Brand:

  Everlast

• Model:

  Everlast 255EXT AC/DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$$

• Adjustability:

  Multiple AC wave forms, Pulse modulation frequency up to 500 hertz

• Value:

  100 percent duty cycle at its rated power

• Build Quality:

  Dual 120/240 input power, Digital display, settings memory and microprocessor-powered easy setup parameters

• Reliability:

  5-year warranty

• User Satisfaction:

  High frequency and lift arc start, Gas preflow and postflow for better shielding

The Everlast 255EXT AC/DC TIG Welder is a top-tier welding machine that offers a blend of power, precision, and versatility. One of its standout features is the multiple AC waveforms, which allow users to fine-tune the arc characteristics for TIG aluminum welding. This feature is particularly beneficial for those looking to advance their welding skills, providing the flexibility to choose between true sine, square sine, and triangular waveforms. Additionally, the high-frequency no-touch arc start ensures that the tungsten electrode remains uncontaminated, resulting in cleaner welds.

Another significant advantage of the Everlast 255EXT is its 100 percent duty cycle at its rated power, meaning you can weld continuously without worrying about overheating. The welder also boasts a wide power range from 3 amps to 250 amps, making it suitable for welding anything from 24-gauge sheet metal to 3/8-inch plate. The inclusion of gas preflow and postflow further enhances the quality of the welds by providing better shielding, reducing the risk of porosity in the weld bead.

User convenience is at the forefront with the Everlast 255EXT, thanks to its digital display, settings memory, and microprocessor-powered easy setup parameters. These features make it easier to achieve consistent results, even for those who are new to welding. The welder also comes with a 5-year warranty, underscoring its reliability and the manufacturer's confidence in its durability. While the water-cooled torch is a great addition, it's worth noting that a water cooler is not included, which might be a consideration for some users.

Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as occasional reports of HF board failure, the Everlast 255EXT AC/DC TIG Welder remains a highly recommended choice for anyone serious about welding. Its combination of advanced features, robust build quality, and user-friendly design make it a valuable investment for both hobbyists and professionals alike.

AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi AC/DC TIG Machine

4.4 WeldWins Rating

The AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi AC/DC TIG Machine offers professional-level features in an economical package, making it a versatile and user-friendly option for both novices and experienced welders. With its digital control panel, large color LCD display, and pre-programmed amp ranges, this machine provides exceptional value and ease of use.

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• Brand:

  AHP

• Model:

  AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi AC/DC TIG Machine

• Price Rating:

  $$

• Adjustability:

  Preprogrammed amp ranges, Pulse in AC and DC, Sequencer Function allows remote control without a foot pedal

• Value:

  Professional-level features in an economical package

• Build Quality:

  Large, color LCD screen, High Frequency and Lift TIG start

• Reliability:

  3-year warranty

• User Satisfaction:

  Easy-to-use preset amp ranges, Light enough to move around

The AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi AC/DC TIG Machine is a remarkable tool that brings professional-level features to an economical package. One of its standout features is the digital control panel paired with a large, color LCD display, which makes it incredibly user-friendly. The machine's ability to operate in both AC and DC modes adds a layer of versatility, allowing users to weld a variety of materials, including aluminum. The inclusion of pulse modes in both AC and DC helps minimize heat distortion and control puddle width, making it an excellent choice for precision work.

Another notable feature is the Rapid Set function, which provides pre-programmed amperage range settings based on the tungsten electrode size and metal thickness. This is particularly useful for beginners who may not yet be familiar with the optimal settings for different welding tasks. Additionally, the machine supports stick welding, offering preset amperage ranges for various electrode types and diameters. The torch trigger can be used in both 2T and 4T modes, which is beneficial for longer welds, and the 2T/4T Sequencer function allows for remote control of programmable functions, making it easier to work in tight spaces or awkward positions.

The AlphaTIG 203Xi also comes with a range of features that enhance its usability and reliability. It includes a high-frequency arc initiation, which is a feature often found in more expensive models. The machine is portable and easy to move around, making it suitable for various job sites. It also comes with a 3-year warranty, providing peace of mind regarding its durability and reliability. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty use or large shops, it excels in smaller settings and for less intensive tasks.

Overall, the AHP AlphaTIG 203Xi offers a blend of advanced features and ease of use that makes it a valuable addition to any welder's toolkit. Its professional-level capabilities, combined with its user-friendly design, make it an excellent choice for both novices and experienced welders looking for a versatile and reliable machine. Whether you're tackling small projects or honing your welding skills, this machine provides the tools you need to achieve high-quality results.

ESAB Rebel 215ic DC TIG Welder

4.3 WeldWins Rating

The ESAB Rebel 215ic DC TIG Welder is a versatile and durable welding machine designed for both MIG and TIG processes. With its automatic settings, high-resolution display, and robust build, it offers exceptional value for both novice and experienced welders.

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• Brand:

  ESAB

• Model:

  ESAB Rebel 215ic DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$$$

• Adjustability:

  Automatic settings with override, 2T/4T switch with a trigger lock

• Durability:

  Designed to IPS23 standards for outdoor duty

• Build Quality:

  Heavy duty weatherproof case, Dual 120/240 volt input

• Brand Reliability:

  3-year warranty

• User Experience:

  User manual on the display, Smart MIG technology adapts to individual styles

The ESAB Rebel 215ic DC TIG Welder stands out as a versatile and robust welding machine, perfect for both hobbyists and professionals. Designed to meet IPS23 standards for outdoor duty, this welder is built to withstand harsh conditions, ensuring durability and reliability. Its heavy-duty weatherproof case and dual 120/240 volt input make it adaptable to various environments, providing flexibility for different welding tasks.

One of the standout features of the Rebel 215ic is its user-friendly interface. The large, high-resolution digital display not only shows settings but also includes the user manual and an on-board parts list, making it incredibly convenient for users. The Smart MIG technology is particularly impressive, as it adapts to individual welding styles, making incremental adjustments to optimize performance. This feature, combined with the automatic settings that adjust based on wire diameter and plate thickness, makes the Rebel 215ic an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced welders.

The welder also comes equipped with a range of accessories, including Tweco MIG and TIG torches and a Victor regulator, adding to its overall value. The 2T/4T switch with a trigger lock is a thoughtful addition, designed to reduce hand fatigue during long welding sessions. While the Rebel 215ic only supports DC TIG welding, its multi-process capabilities, including MIG and flux core, make it a versatile tool for various welding needs. The 3-year warranty further underscores ESAB's commitment to quality and reliability.

Despite its higher price point, the ESAB Rebel 215ic DC TIG Welder offers exceptional value through its advanced features and robust build quality. The ability to save presets for different welding processes and the manual override for experienced welders provide a level of customization that is hard to find in other models. Whether you're working on a small project or a large-scale job, this welder is designed to deliver consistent, high-quality results, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious welder.

Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC TIG Welder

4.2 WeldWins Rating

The Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC TIG Welder offers exceptional versatility and performance with its dual 120/240 volt input power and wide 5 to 200 amp TIG AC range. Ideal for both beginners and experienced welders, it features advanced adjustability and a high-frequency pilot arc for cleaner starts.

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• Brand:

  Weldpro

• Model:

  Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$

• Power And Performance:

  Dual 120/240 volt input power, Wide 5 to 200 amp TIG AC range

• Adjustability:

  200 hertz pulse modulation, Adjustable AC balance

• Build Quality:

  Digital display, CK17 torch with flex head

• Ease of Use:

  Easy to use TIG welder

• Warranty And Support:

  2-year warranty

The Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC TIG Welder stands out as a versatile and powerful tool for both novice and experienced welders. With its dual 120/240 volt input power, it offers flexibility for various welding tasks, whether you're working in a professional shop or a home garage. The wide 5 to 200 amp TIG AC range ensures that you can handle a variety of materials and thicknesses with ease, making it a valuable addition to any welder's toolkit.

One of the key features of the Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD is its advanced adjustability. The 200 hertz pulse modulation allows for variable bead width, giving you precise control over your welds. Additionally, the adjustable AC balance, which ranges from 30 to 70 percent, helps in cleaning oxidation from aluminum while delivering excellent weld penetration. This level of control ensures that your welds are not only strong but also clean and aesthetically pleasing.

Ease of use is another significant advantage of this welder. The CK17 torch with a flex head and the high-frequency pilot arc make starting your welds cleaner and more efficient. The digital display provides clear and accurate information, helping you to set your parameters quickly and accurately. Despite some reports of quality issues with the heat control pedal and the current knob, the overall build quality and performance of the Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD are highly commendable.

Backing up its impressive features is a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance of the product's durability. The inclusion of MIG and TIG torches, a regulator, and an electrode clamp adds further value, making this welder a comprehensive package for all your welding needs. Whether you're tackling a complex project or performing routine maintenance, the Weldpro Digital TIG 200GD AC/DC TIG Welder delivers reliable performance and exceptional results.

Miller Electric Maxstar STR TIG Welder

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The Miller Electric Maxstar STR 210 TIG Welder is a top-tier choice for professional DC TIG welders, offering precision, ease of use, and exceptional performance for thin sheet metal welding. With features like high-frequency arc starting and a 100 percent duty cycle at 175 amps, this welder is designed for continuous, high-quality work.

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• Brand:

  Miller Electric

• Model:

  Miller Electric Maxstar STR TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$$$

• Input Voltage:

  1- and 3-phase input voltage

• Power Source:

  Uses any power source from 110 to 480 volts

• Memory Card Data Port:

  Yes

• Updatable Software:

  Yes

• Sleep Timer:

  Yes

• High Frequency Arc Starting:

  Yes

• Settings Memory:

  Yes

• Low End Welds:

  10 amp low end welds thin sheet metal

• Duty Cycle:

  100 percent duty cycle at 175 amps

The Miller Electric Maxstar STR 210 TIG Welder stands out as one of the premier options in its class, particularly for professional DC TIG welders working with stainless and mild steel. Its high-frequency arc starting ensures precision and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for those who require exacting standards in their welding projects. The welder's ability to handle 10 amp low-end welds on thin sheet metal further enhances its versatility, allowing for smooth and controlled operations even on delicate materials.

One of the standout features of the Maxstar STR 210 is its 100 percent duty cycle at 175 amps, which means it can be used continuously without overheating or requiring downtime. This makes it an ideal tool for industrial applications where consistent performance is crucial. Additionally, the welder's memory settings and factory presets, courtesy of Miller’s TIG Pro-Set system, allow users to get up and running quickly, reducing setup time and increasing productivity.

The Maxstar STR 210 also boasts a range of modern conveniences that enhance its usability. The inclusion of a memory card port for saving settings between machines is particularly useful for those who work in environments with multiple welding stations. The Auto-Line multi-voltage input ensures compatibility with a wide range of power sources, from 110 to 480 volts, making it adaptable to various job sites. Furthermore, the wireless remote control allows for adjustments from up to 300 feet away, adding a layer of convenience and efficiency to the welding process.

While the Maxstar STR 210 is limited to DC processes and does not include a TIG torch, its overall performance and feature set make it a valuable investment for professionals. The welder's ability to conserve power with a sleep timer and its updatable software ensure that it remains a relevant and efficient tool in any workshop. With a 3-year warranty from Miller Electric, users can trust in the durability and reliability of this top-tier TIG welder.

Canaweld AC/DC 201 PULSE-D TIG Welder

4.6 WeldWins Rating

The Canaweld AC/DC 201 PULSE-D TIG Welder is a versatile and powerful welding machine, perfect for both professionals and hobbyists. With its comprehensive digital control and efficient cooling system, this welder ensures precision and durability, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.

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• Brand:

  Canaweld

• Model:

  Canaweld AC/DC 201 PULSE-D TIG Welder

• Price Rating:

  $$$$

• Power Output:

  200 amps

• Material Thickness:

  Handles 0.002 in. to 1/4 in. thickness

• Voltage Input:

  120V and 240V

• Pulse Control:

  Adjustable pulse parameters

• Warranty:

  3-year warranty

• Control Interface:

  Digital control of all parameters

• Cooling System:

  Automatic fan, better heat management, and dust control

• Arc Initiation:

  High-frequency arc initiation

• Pulse Modes:

  AC and DC pulse

• Arc Force:

  Adjustable arc force in stick welding mode

The Canaweld AC/DC 201 PULSE-D TIG Welder stands out as a robust and versatile machine, offering up to 200 amps of power. This makes it suitable for a wide range of welding tasks, from handling thin metals as delicate as 0.002 inches to thicker materials up to 1/4 inch. The welder's ability to operate on both 120V and 240V inputs adds to its versatility, allowing you to work in various environments without worrying about power compatibility. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who need to transport their equipment frequently, as the welder's lightweight design (just 29 lbs.) makes it easy to move and set up.

One of the standout features of the AC/DC 201 PULSE-D is its comprehensive digital control interface. This allows users to fine-tune a multitude of parameters, including pulse width, frequency, slopes, and pre and post-flows. Such detailed control ensures that you can achieve precise and consistent welds, making this machine ideal for both intricate and heavy-duty projects. Additionally, the high-frequency arc initiation and adjustable arc force in stick welding mode provide reliable performance, enhancing the overall welding experience.

Durability and efficiency are also key strengths of this Canaweld model. The automatic fan system not only manages heat effectively but also helps in dust control, prolonging the machine's lifespan. The metal face panel adds an extra layer of durability, ensuring that the welder can withstand the rigors of frequent use. Moreover, the 3-year warranty offers peace of mind, reflecting the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality and reliability.

While the Canaweld AC/DC 201 PULSE-D TIG Welder is not the most affordable option on the market, its features and performance justify the investment. The free shipping within Canada on orders over $150 CAD is an added bonus for Canadian customers. However, potential buyers should be aware that the silver package does not include a foot pedal, which is available in the gold package. Despite this, the welder's comprehensive feature set and robust performance make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone serious about welding.