6 Best TIG Welders under $1000: Variety of Amazing Features!

We compiled a list of the best TIG welders under $1000, so anyone can get started welding without breaking their budget.
By
Christopher McDonagh
Christopher McDonagh
Research Writer
Chris is a teacher of Literature at a school in New Berlin, Wisconsin. He is also our favorite irreplaceable freelance writer who can turn such a boring topic into something read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Thomas Garcia
Thomas Garcia
Expert Consultant
Thomas is a professional welder who gained his certification several decades ago and learned all the nuances of this job since then. When not at work, Thomas loves fishing i read more
Last updated: August 24, 2023
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While a good welder is crucial for any workshop, it’s also important to have the right one for the job. After all, a high-quality TIG welder can be used for projects ranging from fixing your car to building your dream home. But here’s the thing: choosing the right model for you isn’t a walk in the park.

When buying a new TIG welder, you’re probably looking for a quality tool that will last you for years. You want all the bells and whistles, and you want it to be affordable—and so do we! That’s why we’ve put together a list of our favorite best TIG welders under 1000. We’ve tested them all, and they meet our high standards for performance, durability, inverter technology, welding safety, etc.

Quick Summary

  • "This machine is an industrial welder designed with dependability and performance in mind. Hence, it will never disappoint you"
  • "As the name suggests, this is a multipurpose welder that can handle MIG, Stick, Flux-core, and TIG welding"
  • Best for Thin Materials: PrimeWeld TIG225X
    "This welder works great with aluminum, stainless steel, and other thinner materials"
  • Best Precision: AHP Alpha-TIG200X-2018
    "This AHP Alpha-model features high-precision welding for thin materials. It is equipped with the latest technologies to make this possible"
  • Best Warranty: Lotos TIG200
    "This welder can be used with 110v or 230 to 240 volts. The welder will always function normally regardless of your main output"
  • "This YESWELDER model is packed with lots of features at an affordable price. It is also extremely portable, meaning it can be transported with ease"

Top 6 TIG Welders under $1000 Reviewed in 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9232 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.9
Features
  • Type: TIG
  • Input: 120/240V
  • Output: 10-165A
  • Capacity: Steel: 0.020 in. – 1/8 in.; 240V: steel: 0.020 in. – 3/16 in.

More features: pulse mode, torch included

If you’re looking for a welder with all the bells and whistles, but don’t want to break the bank, the VULCAN ProTIG™ 165 Industrial Welder is perfect. It’s easy to use and has a simple design that makes it easy to set up, adjust and maintain. The machine can output 10 to 165 Amperes depending on your settings.

But what really made us choose this model from other welders in its price range is its ability to hold up even under the most stressful circumstances. It’s user-friendly enough that even beginners can feel comfortable using it without any problems. And if you’re a professional needing an industrial welder for projects like building or repair work, this one is worth considering! It also has a great warranty, so if anything goes wrong with your welders after 90days of purchase, you can get it repaired or replaced—no questions asked.

Compared to other models in this list, such as the TITANIUM Unlimited 200 welder below, this industrial machine competes fairly. However, it is only compatible with TIG, unlike the latter, which can handle TIG, MIG, Stick, and flux-core welding.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Dual voltage technology.
  • High-frequency arc.
  • Weighs just 20lbs, hence portable.
  • Ninety days guarantee by the seller.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • The warranty guarantee time is less. It would be best if it were above six months or one year.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5174 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.7
Features
  • Type: MIG, Stick, TIG, Flux-core
  • Input: 120V/240V
  • Output: 30 – 200A
  • Capacity: Steel: 24 GA – 1/8 in.; Aluminum: 22 GA – 1/8 in.240V; Steel: 24 GA – 3/8 in.; Aluminum: 22 GA – 3/8 in.

More features: dual voltage, inverter technology, inductance control, spool gun control

The Titanium Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder offers all the benefits of the more expensive models but without the price tag! This tool is ideal for the professional welder looking to get their business off the ground or the hobbyist who wants to learn how to work with metal without breaking the bank. It weighs only 27 pounds, making it ideal for shop or farm use. If you are interested in more of such machines, check out our best stick welders for farm use guide.

We nominated this product to our listing because it makes it easy to work with a wide range of materials, including stainless steel and aluminum. You don’t have to worry about what type of metal is on hand—you just need to know how much wire you need and where it needs to go! It also comes with an adjustable spool rest designed specifically for use with TIG welding processes. This feature ensures that your workpieces aren’t damaged during transport between tasks, making this tool perfect for short-term projects too!

Compared to our first product in this listing, the Titanium Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder has more to offer. For instance, it is compatible with all types of welding, can accommodate more materials and thickness, and is extremely powerful. It is also compatible with MIG, TIG, Stick, and flux-core welding. If you are only interested in flux-core machines, check out our guide on the best flux-core welders under 300.

    What stands out?
  • Spool gun ready with no adapter required.
  • Inductor technology provides the best arcs.
  • Inductance control to fine-tune your welding.
  • Lightweight.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • It offers a warranty of 90 days or three months.
  • It would be better if the warranty period were longer.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6541 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
3
Best for Thin Materials

PrimeWeld TIG225X

Features
  • Type: TIG, Stick
  • Input: 110/220V
  • Output: 225A
  • Capacity: ¼ in. aluminum and 3/8 in. mild steel

More features: metal foot pedal control, 3-year warranty, advanced inverter technology

The PRIMEWELD TIG225X Welder is one of the cheapest welders we looked at, but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. It has a large range of features for its price point, even some more impressive features than other more expensive models. The model features an output of 225A which can weld aluminum and mild steel without much fuss.

We included this model in our listing because of its warranty. Once you purchase the welder, you will receive customer support, replacements, repairs, and so forth free of charge or for a small amount in that period. This feature gives you peace of mind, knowing that the manufacturer has covered you. – It has a 225-amp power rating, which means it can handle heavy-duty projects like roofing and sheet metal repair. This model’s high-frequency circuitry ensures that energy transfer is fast and consistent. Its automatic wire feeder eliminates the need to change welding rods or spools manually. Its welds are very solid and strong, thanks to its powerful motor and heated electrode tips.

Compared to the Titanium Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder, this model competes fairly. It features a higher output of 225A that can weld thicker materials than the former. Both models are compatible with aluminum and steel. However, the Titanium Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder can do MIG, TIG, and Stick welding, whereas the model reviewed here is only compatible with TIG and Stick types.

    What stands out?
  • Compatible with TIG and Stick welding.
  • 3-year warranty.
  • Powerful output.
  • Advanced inverter technology that delivers maximum power.
  • Best customer support service.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • The ground wire and clamp of this machine are shorter.
  • It would be best if they were longer to make it easy for indoor use.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2512 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.3
4
Best Precision

AHP Alpha-TIG200X-2018

Features
  • Type: TIG, Stick
  • Input: 110/220V
  • Output: 200A
  • Capacity: ¼ inches aluminum and 3/8 inches mild steel

More features: fully controlled LCD screen, advanced inverter technology

When it comes to welding, there are a few things more important than having a good TIG welder. And that’s why we chose the AHP AlphaTIG 200X as our top pick. This model has a powerful output of 200A which can weld ¼ inches of aluminum and 3/8 inches of mild steel. What’s more, it is compatible with not only TIG but also Stick welding.

Our tests deduced that this unit is perfect for those just starting in the welding world. It’s simple, easy to use, and can be used by both beginners and advanced users. It has an LCD screen that the user fully controls, so they know exactly what they’re doing and when they’re doing it. It also has an HF start TIG option, allowing you to start your welding process from any angle. The welder uses advanced inverter technology, meaning it won’t need any maintenance or replacement parts for years to come. It’s got torch functionality and a 3-year warranty so that you can get started on your next project with confidence.

The AHP AlphaTIG 200X welder compares fairly with other models in this listing. For instance, it has an output of 200A, which matches that of the TITANIUM Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder. It is also compatible with Stick and TIG welding, just like the PRIMEWELD TIG225X Welder above. What sets it apart from the rest is its fully controlled LCD screen.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Easy to use.
  • 3-year warranty.
  • Durable and dependable.
  • HF starts the TIG feature.
  • Fully controlled LCD.
    What could be better?
  • If you are welding at 110 volts, this machine might not cope with outputs higher than 80 Amps.
  • It could be better if the manufacturer fixed the dual volt technology so that it can cope with higher outputs at any voltage.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7926 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
9.0
5
Best Warranty

Lotos TIG200

Features
  • Type: TIG, Stick
  • Input: 110/220V
  • Output: 200A
  • Capacity: 3/8 inches

More features: dual voltage, square wave inverter, foot pedal, aluminum welding

LOTUS has been making quality welders at an affordable price for years now. Their TIG welder is one of their most popular models, and we think it’s because it can do it all. It’s compatible with steel, aluminum, and various other thin materials. The machine can also be used for stick welding.

We nominated this model to our listing for its precise foot pedal heat control. This feature makes it easy to start, stop and adjust the heat of your welding arc. You can also adjust arc length, making it easier to work on complex parts. The LOTOS TIG welder also produces stable welding arcs that help you avoid mishaps. With its simple design and intuitive controls, this welder makes it easy to start welding whatever you need—even if you’ve never welded. The arc start feature means it’ll light right up with just one touch of the button, so there’s no need to worry about getting caught in any situation.

This welder has the same output power of 200 Amps as the AHP AlphaTIG 200X model above. Both can weld materials as thick as 3/8 inches. However, this model reviewed here has better technologies that ensure precise welding. It also has a simple design and intuitive controls.

    What do we love it for?
  • Simple design and intuitive controls.
  • Three years warranty.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee.
  • 1-year new replacement warranty.
  • Easy ARC start.
  • Stable welding arc.
  • Foot pedal for precise welding.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • It could have a simpler design and intuitive controls if all the control knobs were properly labeled or well detailed in the user manual.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7682 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
8.9
Features
  • Type: TIG
  • Input: 205A
  • Output: 110/220V
  • Capacity: not specified

More features: dual voltage, foot pedal, high-frequency arc starting, added safety, lightweight, portable

The YESWELDER TIG-205DS is a TIG welder that has received a lot of attention from the welding community. This model can weld most types of thicknesses, has a duty cycle of 60%, and has a powerful output power of 205 Amps. We chose this product because it features a 60% duty cycle, which means it can be used for most thicknesses without having to worry about damaging your materials or the machine itself. It’s also lightweight and portable, so you’ll be able to move it around your shop easily. Plus, it offers the best value for money and has added safety features like automatic compensation for voltage fluctuation, over-current protection, overload protection, and temperature control.

Compared to other models in this listing, this YESWELDER model is low-end. And that’s why it’s priced lower than all the models in this listing. However, it has a powerful output, can weld in various thicknesses, and has a foot pedal control like the LOTUS TIG welder above. It is equipped with many safety features that are missing in other models, such as temperature control, voltage stabilization, etc. For more safety, we recommend getting the right attire, gloves, and jackets. If interested in the latter, check out our guide on the best welding jackets for extra safety.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Foot pedal control.
  • Added safety.
  • Best value for money since it has lots of features for less.
  • Dual voltage support.
  • Powerful output of 205A.
  • Proactive customer support from the manufacturer.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • It would be better if the Amperage control were a little bit sensitive for easy setting.
Also Product Ranking:

Things to Consider

Finding the best TIG welders under $1000 can be a daunting task, especially if you’re looking for something that you can use to weld all kinds of materials. If you’re looking for a versatile machine that will allow you to tackle everything from aluminum to stainless steel, then it’s worth spending some time researching different models and brands before making your purchase. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back! We’ve done all the research for you in this buying guide, so check out what we found and ensure that when it comes time to buy your next welding machine, you get the best deal around!

Advantages of TIG Welders under $1000

6 Best TIG Welders under $1000: Variety of Amazing Features!
With these welders, you don’t need to worry about lugging around an extra bulky piece of equipment that takes up a lot of room in your vehicle or van.

Here are a few of the advantages of TIG Welders under $1000:

  • They’re easy to use. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist or an expert in welding to get started with one. They come with simple, straightforward instructions and lots of videos on how to use them.
  • They were relatively cheap. You can find a good quality TIG welder for under a thousand dollars. This price range allows you to get your feet wet without spending hundreds of dollars on something you might not be able to afford or need.
  • They’re dual voltage. You can use any mains for such welders. So there’s no need for an external power source—just plug it into the wall! This feature eliminates the hassle and expense of getting another power source, an extension cord, and having it run across your garage or basement floor every time you want to use it.
  • Can be used in wide applications: TIG Welders under $1000 can be used to weld large items like pipes, tanks, and other heavy equipment. They are also great for welding thin materials like aluminum, steel, etc.
  • They’re lightweight and portable. You can easily move these welders from the storage site to the project site. While in operation, you can also move them around the room so you’re not stuck in one place for long periods.

Important Features

Before deciding to settle on a certain model over the other, there are some features you should consider. They include the following.

Welding types

The type of welding you want to use will depend on the application. If you’re welding metal or other ferrous materials, then TIG welders would be your best option. These welders can operate at high temperatures without overheating and burning the metal.

If you’re using aluminum, stainless steel, or other non-ferrous metals, stick with stick welding. Stick welders require much less heat than TIG welders and can produce more intricate designs.

Other types of welding, such as flux-core and MIG, can also handle complex welding applications for TIG welders.

To reap the benefit of all the types, it would be best to choose an all-types compatible model. We recommend the TITANIUM Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder reviewed above.

Output AMPs

If you’re looking to buy a TIG welder, you should first check the AMP output of the welder. Output AMPs measure how much current can be drawn from a power source. When you’re looking for a new welder, you want to make sure that it has the power to handle whatever your projects might require. And what better way to do that than by checking out how much welding output the machine has?

The best TIG welders are known for their high levels of output.

These machines can produce a large amount of consistent heat and melt metal quickly, making them perfect for projects where you need to get through a lot of metal in a short amount of time. If you’re going to be using your machine on an ongoing basis, or if you have multiple jobs lined up at once, then it’s worth paying attention to this feature when choosing your next welder.

A good TIG welder usually has an output of at least 200 amps, but it’s important to ensure that your TIG welder has this feature. The higher the amperage output of your welder, the more power it can generate for you. And if you want to weld metal together with maximum efficiency, a higher-amperage output is crucial. The PRIMEWELD TIG225X Welder model reviewed in this guide has an output capacity of 225 Amps. It’s so powerful that it can handle any welding you throw at it.

Welding capacity

The welders are going to be used for welding metal. It would be best if you went for a welder with a high welding capacity. Such a machine with a high welding capacity can be used to weld various materials like steel and aluminum. It can also be used to weld other thicker materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and other metals without struggling. We recommend purchasing the TITANIUM Unlimited 200™ Professional Multiprocess Welder model reviewed above. This welder has a capacity of 24 GA – 1/8 inches for steel, Aluminum: 22 GA – 1/8 inches, Steel: 24 GA – 3/8 inches, and Aluminum: 22 GA – 3/8 inches.

Welding output

Before you buy your next welder, make sure you check the welding output quality. Welders are a crucial part of any construction project, but they can be expensive if you don’t know what you’re looking for. While price is important, it is not the only factor to consider when buying a welder. You want a welder that will provide high-quality results and last for a long time—and that’s where this feature comes in!

Checking output quality will help you avoid false starts or other errors that could lead to costly repairs later down the line. It’s also good practice to ensure your welder isn’t overloading itself by trying to weld too many materials at once or by using too much power.

The LOTOS TIG Welder reviewed above is packed with advanced features that aid it in producing beautiful and precise welding outputs without much fuss. If you want excellent weld outputs, it’s worth considering this welder.

Foot pedal

The foot pedal is the most important feature to check before purchasing a TIG welder under $1000. A foot pedal is a way for the user to control the welding machine using their foot. When you have a foot pedal, you can weld without having to get up from your chair to adjust the speed or direction of the welding arc. This feature is helpful if you’re working with delicate materials, like jewelry, that can’t be moved around easily. The foot pedal will also save you a lot of time for getting started on your project—you won’t have to spend as much time learning how to use your new welder and setting up the correct settings before starting work.

Ease of use

This is probably the most important feature to check as a beginner before purchasing a TIG Welder for under $1000. You need to make sure that it will be easy to handle and use the machine you are buying. If a welder isn’t easy to use, it will not be very useful in your work or hobby. The features that make a welder easy to handle are usually having an adjustable torch and/or an auto shut-off system, so the user does not have to worry about forgetting about their torch settings or accidentally setting their torches on fire.

6 Best TIG Welders under $1000: Variety of Amazing Features!
Other features that make a welder easy to use include a simple interface, detailed manufacturer manual, and automatic safety features such as temperature control, voltage stabilization, etc.

Warranty

When shopping for a new TIG welder, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. The cost of a new welding machine can be high—and it’s not just the cost of the unit itself! Additional costs are also associated with using it, such as gas and oil changes, maintenance contracts, etc. A good way to ensure you’re getting your money’s worth is by checking out the warranty offered on each model. You want to ensure that your new welding machine comes with a guarantee that protects you from costly repairs or replacements if something goes wrong during use. The LOTOS Tig Welder reviewed above has the best warranty and terms. It comes with a three-year warranty, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a 1-year free replacement warranty.

Size and weight

If you’re looking for a TIG welder, you should also check its size and weight. Welders can be heavy, but if you have a small shop or are buying one for your business, it might not matter. But if you plan on welding outside of your shop with it—like building furniture for your home—you’ll want something lightweight enough to carry around easily and won’t strain your back. If you purchase an extremely heavy machine, you will need to ensure that you have enough space in your garage or shop to store it and avoid damaging walls or floors when moving around. You will also need to put a lot of effort when transporting it. That’s why we recommend going for an extremely lightweight and portable model. In our case, this is the YESWELDER TIG-205DS Welder reviewed above.

FAQ

How do you use a TIG welder safely?

If you want to weld, but you’re terrified of getting hurt, here are a few tips for using your TIG welder safely:
  • Protective equipment: You will look like a superhero when you wear welding gloves and a welding helmet. But that’s not enough—you must also wear earplugs, safety glasses, and respiratory protection (like a respirator).
  • Use a process that releases fewer fumes: Ensure you release fewer fumes than other types. You don’t want to put yourself in danger to get your welding done faster!
  • Inspect your machine before use: Ensure it’s in optimal condition to avoid accidents.
  • Proper ventilation: It’s important to ensure that you have a proper ventilation system when using a TIG welder, as it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning if you’re not careful.
  • Do not work continuously without fresh air: To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning due to prolonged exposure to the fumes produced by a TIG welder, you must take breaks between each welding session. It will allow your body time to recover from the effects of the fumes.

How do you maintain a TIG welder in good shape?

Maintenance is the key to keeping a TIG welder in tip-top shape. You should perform a full inspection of your TIG welder after each use. It includes checking for any signs of wear or tear, such as:
  • Sharp metal edges
  • Broken parts
  • Missing parts

If you notice any of these issues, take the appropriate steps to fix them as soon as possible. For example, if there is a broken part on your machine, find out where it is and how you can replace it. If you notice an area that’s been damaged by metal shavings or other debris, clean it up so that debris doesn’t cause problems later on down the line when you’re welding again later.

Which work does the TIG welder do the best?

TIG welders do best where precision is required. TIG welding is a method that uses a high-frequency, pulsed current to ignite the weld metal and create an amalgam between the filler metal and the base metal. The type of weld you can make with TIG differs from other types of welding, such as MIG, because you have full control over the gun, allowing for more work precision.

Our verdict

The above are the best TIG welders under 1000, so anyone can get started welding without breaking their budget. Whether you’re looking for something simple, complex, or an affordable way to spark up a project — you will find a good match for your needs above. Our Editor’s Choice, the VULCAN ProTIG™ 165 Industrial Welder, is a dual voltage model with a peak output of 165 Amps. The machine is dependable and can hold on even in stressful work environments. Our Premium Pick, the TITANIUM Unlimited 200, is compatible with all types of welding. It can do TIG, MIG, Flux-core, and stick welding, making it one of the most versatile machines in our listing. The machine that offers you the Best Value for your money is the YESWELDER TIG-205DS Welder. This model is extremely lightweight and portable. It is cheaper but contains all the high-end features other machines in our listing have.

References

1.
Job Hazard Analysis for Welding | Work - Chron.com
Job Hazard Analysis for Welding. Welding is a manual labor job that involves joining metal parts together through a heating and melting process. Welders work on construction and repair of cars, planes, ships and sheet-metal projects.
2.
What is Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW aka Dual Shield Welding)? - TWI
Flux cored arc welding (FCAW) is a semi-automatic or automatic arc welding process that is similar to metal active gas (MAG) welding.
3.
Welding, Cutting, and Brazing - Hazards and Solutions | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Health hazards from welding, cutting, and brazing operations include exposures to metal fumes and to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Safety hazards from these operations include burns, eye damage, electrical shock, cuts, and crushed toes and fingers. Many of these can be controlled with proper work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE). The following links provide information about potential hazards and possible solutions associated with these operations.
4.
Welding: Controlling the risks from welding - HSE
If welding is part of your work activity, you must carry out a risk assessment to identify what measures are required to control the risks from exposure to welding fume. If there is poor, or no, controls in place, then exposure to welding fume is inevitable, as can be seen.
9,9
Total Score
VULCAN ProTIG™ 165 Industrial Welder - Editor's Choice
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