Best TIG Welder Under $500 (2024)– Reviews & Buying Guide

EDITOR’S CHOICE

AMICO POWER TIG 160DC TIG
AMICO POWER TIG 160DC TIG
PREMIUM PICK
Amico TIG-225HF, 225 Amp TIG
Amico TIG-225HF, 225 Amp TIGr
  • It has infinite voltage and wire feed speed control so you can dial in the perfect weld!
  • High Amp output that allows you to weld mild steel up to 1/4 in plate
  • Lightweight 19 lbs. easily carried to any Do-It-Yourself,
  • Maintenance, Repair, Metal Fabrication and Hobbyist project
BUDGET PICK
Mophorn Tig Welder 140 Amp Tig Stick Welder
Mophorn Tig Welder 140 Amp Tig Stick Welder
  • 2 in 1 combo welding, used as TIG welder or ARC stick welder.
  • Compatible with φ Max.3.2mm acid & alkaline electrode.
  • 110/220V input, with voltage compensation for voltage fluctuation.
  • Over-voltage, over-current, over-heat protection.

20 Models Considered

115 Hours of Research

27 Experts Interviewed

425 Reviews Analyzed

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Many of our readers have recently contacted us to inquire about the essential elements of the Best TIG welder.

However, choosing a TIG welder is now more complicated than ever, especially in a marketplace flooded with hundreds of models of TIG welders. Therefore, we have put some hard work into our best TIG welder Under $500 reviews and hope it will assist you in your decision-making.

You will be instructed how TIG welding works, the crucial elements considered when choosing one, and a few great welders we really like.

With that said, let’s get started.

Best TIG Welders Under $500 – Top Picks

Best TIG Welders Under 500$ – Reviews

1 Amico TIG 160 Amp Torch ARC Stick DC WelderBest Tig Welder Under 500

Best TIG Welder Under $500

We deem Amico’s performance and ability to produce quality welding to be far beyond what its low price would suggest. This helps explain why it’s been awarded Best TIG Welder Under $300.

Our team was surprised by how well the welder performed for a price under $300. Since it was intended primarily for household use, the testing was based on consumer behavior. As a consequence, test units were usually small things found around the house.

From stuff up to 18,000mm in thickness, the lightweight and portable Amico can weld it all almost perfectly. It works wonderfully on 120V and can handle both thin and thick metal bases. It does, however, have one major disadvantage, which is control.

The welding machine is a beast in the hands of veterans with a solid amount of know-how, skills, and experience. At the same time, beginners might have trouble controlling the arc initially, especially on 220V (which offsets its advantage of being dual voltage). 

On the other hand, it provides a good opportunity for amateur welders to practice and gain a practical understanding of welding.

Even though it will appeal mainly to beginners, the TIG-160 will benefit semi-veteran welders best. Although it costs a lot more, it will provide better quality results than many more expensive machines.

Pros
  • Light
  • Decent performance
  • It works well on 120V
  • Affordable
  • Twice the tension
  • Large amperage
Cons
  • It takes a bit of skill and practice to get used to using it.

2 – Amico TIG-225, 220 Amp High-Frequency TIGBest Tig Welder Under $500

Best TIG Welder Under $500

Compared to TIG welders up to 225 volts, the TIG-225 is on par in the performance and arc output. It can be used to weld metals between 3 inches and 4 inches thick and things as thin as a pipe

It had a very high accuracy because the TIG-225 has an IGBT technology. This is what boosted its control of the welding arc. Our experienced welders would highly recommend it to a welder.

Like the Amico TIG-160, the Amico TIG-225 is also dual voltage but runs on 240V, which results in easier control. It comes with user-friendliness and simplicity. However, the controls, buttons, and the like all seem rather straightforward.

The only two notable negatives were the smell after opening the box was a bit overpowering, and a few other users have tried it and felt they broke on arrival. Although they were refunded, it is still a waste of time when you’re not in a hurry.

Easy to start and use, decent performance, superb dual voltage, and low price point are advantages that almost any household can utilize. Ideal for beginners starting welding as a hobby or using it for an essential purpose.

Pros
  • Decent performance
  • Affordable
  • IGBT technology
  • Dual voltage
  • High-frequency start-up system.
Cons
  • Packages might emit an odor
  • The minor delivery issue leading to the dead-on-arrival issue

3 – Mophorn Tig Welder 140 Amp TIG Stick WelderBest 120v Tig Welder Under 500

Best TIG Welder Under $500

There are loads of benefits to this 2-in-1 combo welding machine. It is both a TIG welder and an arc welder, so it works well at both professional and household levels. The frivolous and moveable design make it suitable for industrial and household use.

We found that it has a very consistent electricity arc during testing, and switching from 115V to 230V is also easy and convenient. It is dual voltage and is easy to control the current output, and maintains a 60% duty cycle.

A good thing about it is that it offers an HF start similar to those above, a plus for any welder. The control is accomplished using a trigger, which makes adjusting it very intuitive. The result is that even beginners can weld most units with accurate results.

Although it is not the highest or most powerful TIG welder under $300, it can handle amp settings over this. Virtually every other comparable piece of equipment will boast it could handle amperage up to that. 

Although the electricity arc would start looking kind of “wonky†when the maximum amperage setting is set, Morphon is perhaps one of the few budget TIG welders that can always handle high-amp settings consistently.

Even though it has some minor shortcomings, we found its manual most disappointing. For those who couldn’t find a 220V outlet, the manual suggested that “switching the plug” will resolve the problem but was not precise enough on how to do this on their own.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Dual voltage
  • 140 amp
  • 2-in-1 combo
  • IGBT technology
Cons
    • It does not come with a controller
    • Manual is a bit indistinct on some parts

Another good option if you are a hobbyist welder or if you are just starting with welding. However, you might want to speak with the manufacturer about swapping the plug for a 230VAC outlet if you don’t think you can have one.

4 – S7 TIG Welder, HF TIG/Stick/Arc TIG Welder,200 Amp 110 & 220V

Best TIG Welder Under $500

If it were not for one major drawback, which will be discussed below, this product would have been right at the top of our favorite list.

I have already elaborated on its dual voltage and dual function advantages several times. In summary, we think this welder performs well and exceeds our expectations in every way for a tool under $300.

A few rods are used for more common applications, including stainless steel and aluminum. It welds up to 42mm thick steel. You can adjust the arc puddle by adjusting the nozzle.

The only time this welder shines is when it comes to tasks that require precision. When welding anything else, especially for building materials, it becomes a little harder.

Pros
  • 2-in-1 combo
  • Dual voltage
  • Can weld metal thickness from 15-42mm
  • Duty cycle 80%
Cons
  • For precision works only.

This welder is ideal for repair works of smaller units or precision work. For experienced welders, it might even allow you to weld heavy-duty units too.

5 – EVERLAST PowerARC 140 140amp Lift Start TIG WelderBest Tig Welder For Under 500

Best TIG Welder Under $500

EVERLAST PowerARC 140 140amp Lift Start TIG / Stick IGBT WelderThis model has plenty of power and will be very useful for any light to moderate-duty manufacturing processes. 

Our favorite feature was the supreme electricity arc control. This makes it easier to achieve precision tasks under this welder. If this welder under $500 has a horizontal fire start, you can also expect this one to have that feature.

The PowerARC 140 is extremely lightweight, coming in at less than 25 lbs. It can be tapped into a 120V source for up to 80 amps while plugging in a 220V source for the full 140 amps.

Despite this machine’s unique features, we have found two downsides. The first is the lack of a foot pedal, so beginners might need to practice pulling the tungsten out to stop the welding. The second is the seller’s refusal to send you replacement parts in case it breaks down.

Pros
  • Very decent performance
  • Dual voltage
  • 5-year warranty
  • Very decent arc control
  • portable
Cons
  • No foot pedal

Although it is the best TIG Welder under $500, it is an extremely well-built product. Even though the specs are bare essentials, the quality of welding it produces surpasses various products available on the market.

6 – Everlast PowerCool W300Best Tig Welder For Under $500

Best TIG Welder Under $500

Remember when we mentioned how a water-cooled torch would help significantly with heat respite? The Everlast PowerCool W300 Water cooler is here to provide you with this relief. Even though the machine does not hold 2 gallons of water as it claims, it still does the trick. 

The water-cooled torches reduce heat significantly. Consequently, not only does this make welding more pleasant for welders, but it could also last longer because of the non-stick Tungsten electrode.

In addition to that, the machine has a decent output via good arc control. It is also worthwhile to mention that W300 is a very straightforward machine to set up. It is a plug-and-play machine.

Except for the voltage issue and some setup problems, there are no cons to describe here other than the fact that the motor needs to be turned manually to get going. But after that, it worked beautifully until now.

Pros
  • Padded elastic ring
  • Absorbs sweat
  • Flat stitched seams
  • Breathable
Cons
    • The engine may need to be turned to start the machine manually
    • No double voltage

Perfect for welders who cannot tolerate heat and want an economical TIG welder that does a good job.

7 – Reboot TIG Welder,110/220V Pulse TIG Welding Machine

7 - Reboot TIG Welder,110/220V Pulse TIG Welding Machine

Reboot TIG Welder, 110/220V Pulse Tig Welding engine budget TIG welder, the Reboot TIG was reviewed as having a decent arc control and combining many features for a reasonable price. 

Although it does not boast great portability, it has a great weight suitable for a machine of that type. It also has a gas valve that works, which is quite advantageous as many TIG welders out there are usually defective.

Besides these technical advantages, the 200A TIG welder also has several other features that deserve mentioning. The machine features high-frequency soft switch technology and compensation of grid voltage fluctuations and interference. Additionally, the control panel is fully digital with friendly HMI and convenient adjustment.

A TIG 200A can be used extensively with such properties for household applications, including welding a door or window, brazing pipes, securing hardware, and so forth.

We only had one issue with it, and that was the bulky cable sheath. This is not ideal for people with a small shed for a workstation around the backyard. Cable management may be complicated.

Pros
  • Digital panel
  • Various adjustment options
  • High-frequency soft switch
  • The good power grid function
  • Wide amperage range
Cons
  • Bulky cables.

It’s perfect for most household uses and has decent performance overall. However, you may have to pay attention to cable management to avoid tangling up your cords in your own workshop.

Best Tig Welder Under $1000

1 – PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225 Amp IGBT AC DC TIG/Stick WelderBest Tig Welder For Under 1000

1 - PRIMEWELD TIG225X 225 Amp IGBT AC DC TIG/Stick Welder - Best Tig Welder For Under 1000

Here are the reasons why the Prime Weld TIG225X is the best TIG welder available under $1000.

I couldn’t believe how neat and organized the things inside the TIG225X box were when we unpacked the box. Most other TIGs at this price would be a bit loosely packed and insulated with styrofoam. 

The Primeweld engineers were able to pack everything into a box so perfectly that there was no room to spare. On top of that, metal parts are installed on the four corners of the cabinet to provide further protection.

The flame actually has a genuine CK Worldwide torch head, which is very impressive. Usually, at an inflated price, fake CK Worldwide designed torches are common. However, we called CK Worldwide to confirm that the lamp was real. This is another huge plus for the product.

With such meticulously designed equipment, we thought the performance must be lacking. We were wrong. The machine could handle 225 amps and did a T-joint on two 3/8″ thick sheets of steel, and the joint was smooth beyond our expectations. In addition, the machine’s controls at the lower end are great.

We found only one problem with it, as it was fairly noisy, but hey, you have to play to win some.

Pros
  • Tightly packed and high-quality delivery
  • It comes with a hand mask
  • The equipment is equipped with very inexpensive small details (read on for details)
  • Genuine CK flexible head number 17 worldwide
  • Very decent performance
Cons
  • Not a very quiet machine.

The TIG2255X is the one to convey home if you are looking for a machine designed to work with small details and is more than just a weld machine.

2 – AHP AlphaTIG 200X 200 AmpBest Tig Welder Under 1000

2 - AHP AlphaTIG 200X 200 Amp - Best Tig Welder Under 1000

Powered by 200V AC DC, the AHP AlphaTIG 200X achieves a high power output when set to 110V, and it can be powered even more by a 220V setup (more than when connected to other TIGs). 

It’s capable of working with metal plys as thick as 38, which is more than adequate for most general-purpose metals.

Additionally, the lap joint it can provide is also superior in quality and comparable in price to products at quite a substantial price tag. This machine is dual voltage and not as heavy as 50 pounds, which makes it very portable. That is always a wonderful asset to have.

Another huge advantage of the AHP is that the TIG mode complements its own stick mode. You just lighten your touch, and you’ll be able to strike an arc effortlessly. During the testing phase, we saw no power loss, and everything went smoothly.

We were unable to figure out how to work for the AHP’s confusing panel. While it offers various setup options, it took us a while to figure out how it works.

Pros
Cons
    • Noisy fans
    • Confusing panel

Those wanting to weld as a hobby but cannot compromise on quality should consider the AHP. The manual may help some beginners who do not have much experience with the panel.

3 – Weldpro Digital TIG ACDC 200GD –  Best 200 Amp Ac/Dc Tig Welder Under 1000

3 - Weldpro Digital TIG ACDC 200GD -  Best 200 Amp Ac/Dc Tig Welder Under 1000

Digital Fuser Welder Pro 200GD WelderOverall, the Weldpro 200GD is a versatile welder that can be used on various materials like carbon steel, aluminum, and polyethylene.

 Having a maximum power output of 200 amps, it is more than strong enough to weld thicker materials, maintaining that smooth surface finish on the metal.

Again, similar to other additional high-end products on this list, no signs of power loss were detected during the challenging phase.

The greatest outstanding feature of the 200GD is its foot pedal. We could express right away that there was a lot of effort in the foot pedal, but after a while realized it was incredibly sensitive. It means that precision welding will be far easier since the pedal is so sensitive.

The only downside here is that it only uses Dinse 9 stick and has only a 40% duty cycle. You can expect some time waste here since you need to rest the welder more often.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Great performance
  • High-frequency start-up
  • Great pulse control
  • VRD function
  • Great pedal
Cons
    • Denise 13 not available
    • Only 40% duty cycle

If you mainly intend to use the Weldpro 200GD for household purposes and do not have patience issues, this welder is appropriate.

4 – Lotos TIG200ACDC 200A AC/DC Aluminum TIG Welder – Best Ac/Dc Tig Welder Under 1000

4 - Lotos TIG200ACDC 200A AC/DC Aluminum TIG Welder - Best Ac/Dc Tig Welder Under 1000

Besides having a real CK flex-head torch, the Lotos TIG200ACDC 200A has an AC / DC aluminum tig welder. You can usually expect your Tungsten electrode to last quite a long time with this model. 

A welder with a large amperage range is always beneficial because you can adjust it accordingly.

However, it is worth mentioning that it can hold its own up to 200A without losing energy or breaking. That is an impressive feat for a welder with this price tag.

Our experience with the machine was positive. The T-joint that we did on it was incredibly smooth, and the pulses were pretty decent. The color could have been a little better, but that’s not really a big deal.

There is only one issue with it: the pedal and the clearance effect it has! The pedal comes with it, but this one doesn’t have any issues. You need time to adjust because you need to hit that sweet spot before controlling it effectively. 

Additionally, those unfamiliar with the clearance effect might find the menu useless as it doesn’t give you much further information about it.

Pros
  • Extra kits included in the bundle
  • Durable
  • Wide amperage range
  • Automatic voltage switch
  • Weld metal up to ¼ thickness
  • Real CK flex torch
Cons
    • The pedal is hard to use
    • Confusing cleanse effect

The ideal choice for the semi-professional in addition to the hobbyist. However, it will truly sheen if greatest of your welding tasks are done with aluminum materials.

Best Tig Welder Around $2000

1 – Everlast PowerTIG 200DV 200amp 110/220 Dual VoltageBest Tig Welder For Under 2000

1 - Everlast PowerTIG 200DV 200amp 110/220 Dual Voltage - Best Tig Welder For Under 2000

Welding with the Everlast PowerTIG 200DV 200amp 110/220 Dual Voltage is a straightforward matter of getting all the highest quality accessories to keep it running smoothly.

 Typically, manufacturers will cheap out here and there without taking concerns into account, but not Everlast.

Examples include the overbuilt, high-quality, and long-lasting electrode just for 200 amps, as well as the simple commercial foot pedal.

Aside from the 200DV, it is also equipped with a water cooler port for users who would like to upgrade their welder later, provide pulse functionality, and provide a wide variety of settings similar to some of our other TIG welder models.

  • Compared to other TIG welding machines, which cost many times more, this machine’s performance is brilliant.
  • The arc is very controllable, and the lap joint we welded was an incredibly smooth one.
  • Furthermore, our experiments indicate the stick welding arcs are as smooth as the arcs in TIg welding modes.
  • It is also not an exaggeration to say the machine surpasses machines dedicated to sticking welding.

Our testing proved it did not have any flaws so far. We tried it in various modes and settings and weld different materials. It was surprising that we did not find any flaws. 

However, the only disadvantage is that the price has strayed away from being affordable; however, it is expected.

Pros
  • Automatically detect voltage
  • Soft-touch buttons
  • It comes with high-quality accessories
  • Proper flow meter
  • Stoutly built
  • Solid steel construction foot pedal
  • Many adjustable options
Cons
  • Not the most budget-friendly.

The Everlast 200DV can match a thousand bucks and a little more, so you may be able to take it home to satisfy any needs you may have in any quality or material, even for commercial purposes and even with that kind of price range.

2 – Miller 951674 Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder

2 - Miller 951674 Multimatic 215 Multiprocess Welder

It would be quite suitable to start the review by mentioning the smooth arc of the Miller 215 to avoid any concerns regarding splatter on the arc. The drive motor runs the process in a specific order to avoid such worries. 

Consequently, welders would easily control the arc, resulting in a smoother joint in the metal base.

Even though the Miller 215 does not have automatic voltage and auto-setting, it still contains a guide sheet packed with comprehensive instructions on setting up and configuring the machine.

Although the TIG welder can be used to weld up to 3/8 aluminum, you must purchase a spool gun to weld aluminum.

Pros
  • Reliable
  • Triple processes (TIG, MIG and stick)
  • Auto tuning function
  • Easy to install and ready to use right out of the box
  • Weld up to â…œ steel
  • portable
  • Easy to use
  • Decent arch
Cons
  • Spool gun needs to be bought distinctly if you are looking to weld aluminum too.

For people who often find it difficult to configure their devices manually but cannot rely entirely on auto-setting, Miller 215 is for you. It is designed for easy adaptability, and a detailed guide sheet is included.

What is TIG Welder?

Generally, TIG is known as heliarc welding, although it is sometimes referred to as TIG welding. This melting technique uses electrodes made of tungsten with an extremely high melting point that people refer to as non-consumable electrodes since they cannot be consumed.

Best TIG Welder Under $500

But, so that you understand, non-consumable does not mean for life. Instead, it means the electrode will not melt and can become part filler metal. An arc of electricity is produced between the steel and the electrode that heats the metal and allows bonding at the hot spot.

Advantages of TIG welding

  • Welders who are somewhat familiar with welding tend to be aware that TIG has certain advantages over other welding techniques.
  • TIG welding processes offer highly accurate results in complex welding processes requiring excellent handling and detailed work.
  • TIG welding services are also surprisingly affordable for high-quality welds, except for some tasks.
  • TIG welding has the advantage of being able to achieve metal purity.

As mentioned, TIG welders use electrodes with a high melting point, which does not melt and remains part of the metal base, resulting in joint metal consisting only of their constituent parts.

Best TIG Welders Under $500

Disadvantages of TIG welding

  • Now we come to the third disadvantage of the TIG welding technique, and you should be aware of these three drawbacks.
  • Once the metal bases have been melted and joined together, it is almost impossible to separate them. 
  • When picking them apart, there comes the point when a couple of experienced welders are required to accomplish the task without completely ruining the product.
  • When it comes to TIG welding, quality usually comes with long hours needed, which is even more true than usual.
  • For a TIG welder to create a quality product, you cannot rush it, as it will ruin the entire process.
  • TIG welding is also known for its affordability, and it is also emphasized in the advantages section as well.
  • TIG welding is affordable due to the low costs of most TIG welding equipment, materials, and workers required for the job. 

It is a labor-intensive and lengthy process that requires people with a high mastery of work skills and incurs other expenses since it requires long labor hours.

If you can ensure that your work is done efficiently enough and limit the long hours, such an outcome can be avoided.

What Do I Need To Know When Choosing The Best TIG Welder Under $500?

Best TIG Welder Under $500

What is your intended use, and what is your budget? This is always our response to which TIG welder to choose and if you should invest much or little.

The most expensive TIG welder in the market can go straight to the buyers if money is no matter. Otherwise, you need to consider what you intend to use the welder and what budget you have to achieve that aim. 

With these two as a guide, deciding which factors are most critical and sacrificed becomes easier to understand. Below we review several most important aspects to consider when making a decision.

Power output and working space

For work that does not require a large power output, and if you have only a small shed for work as your workspace, the 120V welder would be a great choice (or 240V for larger-scale jobs).

The thickness of the material

The thicker your metal base is, the more amperage the welder needs. Having an unsightly amperage on a TIG welder on a thick piece of metal would delay your project and possibly ruin your metal base.

Foot pedal

Many welders tend to disregard this as trivial, but we think it is quite important to do so in the long run, especially when purchasing a TIG welder for a job that requires both hands and extended gas control using your feet.

A foot pedal that isn’t angled correctly can cause your legs to experience severe fatigue or minor nerve damage.

Torch cooling type

Some welders would not mind the heat but might prefer an air-cooled torch for various reasons. However, with a unit that produces a great amount of heat, you might consider a water-cooled torch. It provides substantial relief from heat fatigue.

Pulses per second

An essential variable that impacts the accuracy of welding is pulses per second. Most TIG welders that are available on the market have a rate of between 4500 and 5000.

If you’re seeking to maximize the number of combined tools, then high pulses per second are important.

Portability

Having a portable TIG welder could be crucial for a larger working area, even for a small shed.

A TIG welder that rolls around the working space would not only fix a considerable chunk of problems, it would also become more accessible.

Let’s get started with our best tig welder reviews, and we will be reviewing products in a broad price range.

Wrapping Up

This is basically everything you need to know about buying a TIG welder that best suits your needs.

I would like to thank you for reviewing the Best TIG welder and look forward to giving you more information on this topic.

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