Best TIG Welders Under $500 & $300 [Cheapest Options]- Top Picks and Reviews

People do not pay high when they are looking for TIG Welder as a beginner or for home use. You are at the right place because we have reviewed the Best TIG Welders under $500 & $300. Further, we have included all the latest models available in the market with a variety of features.

Some of the TIG welders under $300 are not able to perform long-term tasks so you should be careful to choose the right one. You should first analyze the current and future task requirements so that you may easily understand and compare TIG welding features.

Normally, this purchase revolves around input voltage, output amperage and type (AC or DC), duty cycle, portability, weight, and warranty.

Highlights – Best TIG Welders Under $500:

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best Customer Reviews	AmicoPower MTS-165	Input: 110/230V Output: 10-165A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	Forney 291 Easy Weld	Input: 120/230V Output: 10-180A Duty Cycle: 30%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	PrimeWeld 160Amp	Input: 110/220V Output: 10-160A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
Best Multi-Process	CT-520D Multi-Process Welder	Input: 110/220V Output: 10-200A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	Lotos-CT520D	Input: 110/220V Output: 15-200A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	Amico TIG-160DC	Input: 110/230V Output: 10-160A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	EVERLAST-160STH	Input: 110/220V Output: 10-160A Duty Cycle: 35%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
Editor’s Top Pick	YESWELDER TIG-205DS	Input: 110/220V Output: 15-200A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	Amico Power ST-205	Input: 115/230V Output: 20-200A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE
	Reboot ARC-140	Input: 110/220V Output: 20-140A Duty Cycle: 60%	CHECK LATEST PRICE

 Detailed Reviews: Best TIG Welders Under $500

1. MTS-165 Amico Power Welder Review [Best TIG Welders Under $500]: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110/230V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 10A-165A Output Type: AC Weight: 26 Pounds Dimensions: 18 x 9 x 14 inches Rating: 4.8/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

If you are looking for a TIG welder to weld multiple metals but have budget issues MTS-165 can be the best choice. MTS-165 is capable of welding metals like mild, stainless steel, copper, cast iron, and aluminum up to ¼’’.

This machine can perform equally well at low amperage due to which metal burning can be avoided in the case of thinner gauges. Due to the IGBT inverter technology and waveform control system, it provides a smooth arc in case of voltage fluctuations and avoids any short circuit.

The kind of parameters that MTS-165 is using is providing the best synergic control over wire melting with fewer spatters and giving precise clean finishing. Moreover, the digital display screen enables the welder to set the exact amperage to produce as per the task requirements.

The quality of accessories with this machine helps to save the resources to the maximum level. The machine is using a solenoid gas valve which helps to control the pre, post flow of gas when the arc produces. MTS-165 also has automatic heat and temperature control.

When we compare all 3-in-1 welders with the features listed above, MTS-165 has an edge over competitors. You can verify these quality features from the best customer reviews and ratings.

2. PrimeWeld 160Amp Arc/Stick, Lift-TIG Welders Review: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110/220V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 160 Amp Output Type: DC Weight: 22 Pounds Dimensions: 10" x 12" x 6" Warranty: 3 Years Rating: 4.8/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

If you are quite familiar with the welding field, you must know that PrimeWeld has an excellent image in manufacturing welding accessories. In a cost-benefit analysis, we have found that PrimeWeld 160Amp is best for hobbyists, job sites, and workshops.

Further, Primeweld 160Amp is a compact and reliable machine with dual voltage and fulfills all basic welding needs. In addition, this is also a versatile multi-purpose welding machine that you can use as a high-quality stick welder, as a power arc, and lift TIG welder with a 60% long duty cycle.

This machine has an easy user interface that beginners can easily configure with the digital display screen. Moreover, dual voltage capability, inverter technology, and pulse width modulation technology are all plus points for PrimeWeld 160Amp in this price range.

It is a lightweight and portable machine with a variety of features and functions. Its lightweight makes it an excellent option for home use or job site. Even with its heavy-duty components, it has more arc penetration than TIG/MIG/Flux cores.

PrimeWeld 160Amp provides 3 years warranty with excellent after-sale customer service and a money-back guarantee. This makes it a perfect choice when you are looking for a reliable long-term TIG welding machine.

3. Forney 291 Easy Weld 180 ST TIG Welder Review: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 120/230V Duty Cycle: 30% @ 180 Amp Output Range: 10-180A Weight: 23.3 pounds Dimensions: 11 x 6.31 x 14.13 Warranty: 12 months CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

Forney 291 Easy Weld provides you with a great stick welding experience with an easy user interface with optional TIG welding accessories. Further, this machine has a dual voltage 120/230V option with a wide amperage range of 10-180Amp.

Forney 291 is also compatible with all major generator types and provides a stable and smooth arc. It is a lightweight and portable TIG machine which provides a quality TIG welding experience for mild steel.

This machine has an easy arc to start technology with sharp arc strike and eliminates electrode sticking. Moreover, beginners can easily handle Forney 291 and switch between the functions from Stick to TIG. There is a single amperage adjustment knob to easily configure the setting.

There are two types of light, one is a power indicator and the second is for the over-heat indicator light. So, you can easily understand when to stop weld to maintain the temperature. Forney 291 Easy Weld is fully manufactured with a metal case due to which it is more durable than any other machine.

You can use Forney 291 Easy Weld for farm and ranch, auto body parts, and in light industrial metal art with full potential. But you must note that you cannot use this for aluminum welding as this is the DC welder only.

4. YESWELDER TIG-205DS TIG Welder Review: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110 - 220V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 15 - 205A Output Type: AC/DC Weight: 33.4 Pounds Dimensions: 20 x 16.5 x 11 Discount: 14% CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

YESWELDER TIG-205DS is another cost-effective TIG machine with all the necessary features. It is based on soft switch IGBT technology with an excellent stable and smooth arc. It is lightweight but has strong components and gives excellent results for home tasks and for professionals.

TIG-205DS works with high-frequency easy arc start which results in improve tungsten life. As a beginner, you can easily set the amperage with a digital display screen for precise welding. Moreover, its 15-200Amp wide amperage helps to weld the thinner metals.

TIG-205DS has an auto temperature control with a fan dormancy feature which helps maintain the surrounding temperature. The machine works well during voltage fluctuations and protects during over/under voltage situations.

This TIG machine is using the latest IGBT inverter technology and it has a 60% long duty cycle which is normally not available in this range. Moreover, TIG-205DS shows perfect arc stability due to soft fusion technology, tungsten electrode, and 5/32’’ rod.

The machine is using transistor bridge technology which improves its efficiency due to better power conversion. It is a 30% lighter welding machine with a more compact design. Additionally, with a shoulder strap convenient handle you can easily carry this machine anywhere.

5. Lotos CT520D 50 Amp Air Plasma Cutter, TIG/MMA/Arc Welder: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110 - 220V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 15 - 200A Weight: 38.5 Pounds Dimensions: 17 x 8 x 11 Warranty: 12 months Discount: 12% CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

Lotos CT520D is a perfect choice when you are searching for a multi-process welding machine with a plasma cutter. The machine can cut up to ½’’ with fine end results for most of the metals like Mild, Alloy and Stainless Steel, Copper, and Aluminum.

With a fine plasma cutter, you will get a DC TIG welder with a wide amperage range of 15-200Amp and a dual voltage option. Due to wide amperage, welding results for thinner gauges are amazing. A High-frequency ARC start, with an optional heat control foot pedal, makes this tool more attractive.

Lotos CT520D is more favorable for professional tasks like workshops or onsite jobs due to its multi processes. Even with multi processes, this machine is easier and quicker to set up. You can adjust the hot striking arc as per the project need to get more precise results.

This machine includes a set of quality consumables like a Power Supply, Plasma Cutter Torch, TIG Torch, Air Filter Regulator, Ground Cable. In addition, you will enjoy the latest technologies like IGBT high frequency and pulse width modulation technology.

In a cost-benefit analysis, Lotos CT520D is one of the Best TIG Welders Under $500 due to its latest technology and 3-in-1 combo quality features. If you are looking for home use then this will be the choice you will not regret.

6. Amico TIG-160DC, TIG/Stick Welder Review: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110/230V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 10-160Amp Output Type: DC Weight: 15 Pounds Dimensions: 16.6 x 7.5 x 11.8 inches Warranty: 1 Year Rating: 4.4/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

Amico TIG-160DC is one of the low-priced welders with dual voltage and TIG/Stick function. Even with low price the quality of function is still good and work better for home use. It is a powerful welder and can weld mild alloy, and stainless steel along with copper and cast iron.

The quality of arc and voltage control is much better than competitors. Moreover, the longest duty cycle will help you to finish the tasks timely. The Digital Display screen has made it easy for beginners to configure the setting for precise work.

As a result, with a single knob amperage setting, you can easily deliver the flawless weld and with a better post-weld cleanup. Further, you can easily plugin this machine with any common power supply. It is a lightweight machine which you can carry anywhere and also provide a 1-year warranty period.

The power output is DC only in Amico TIG-160DC so you cannot use this machine for aluminum welding. But for other metal, it has the capability of welding up to 3/8’’ metal pieces. In conclusion, it is a good choice if your budget is under $300.

7. 2019 EVERLAST PowerARC 160STH TIG Welder: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110/220 V Duty Cycle: 35% Output Range: 10-160 Amp Output Type: DC Weight: 37 Pounds Dimensions: 20 x 12.5 x 13.5 inches Warranty: 5 Years Rating: 4.4/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

2019 EVERLAST 160-STH is also a dual voltage welder with latest IGBT inverter-based technology. This machine has high-frequency arc start with 2-in-1 TIG, Stick function. Due to wide amperage range, it works well for thinner metals and avoids burning.

It is comparatively lightweight and portable so that you can easily carry it anywhere. The EVERLAST DC TIG Welder produces a smooth arc with low power consumption but a 35% long duty cycle. 160-STH has a very easy user interface that is easy to set up even for beginners.

In other words, you will have full amperage control with a foot pedal and produce a stable and smooth arc. You will get an electrode holder, DINSE style connector, work clamp, TIG torch, Argon regulator, and consumable starter kit.

Further, this machine is a perfect choice for beginners as it has a five-year-long warranty period with 30 days money-back guarantee. Due to this machine is more reliable for them than competitors.

8. PrimeWeld 200Amp 3-in-1 TIG Welder: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110 - 220V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 50A Weight: 35.7 Pounds Dimensions: 23 x 17 x 13 inches Warranty: 3 Years Rating: 4.7/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

If you are looking for an innovative welder plus cutter to follow the rigid safety standards, then PrimeWeld 200Amp will be a long-lasting addition to your workshop. With this machine, you can perform quality cutting, TIG/stick, Arc welding conveniently.

This machine helps you to quickly perform the longer-term tasks with its 60% long duty cycles. Moreover, if your tasks include both TIG and stick welding simultaneously, with an easy switch option you can perform it easily with this unit.

PrimeWeld can weld the metals up to ½’’ which is rarely available in this range. Further, you can cut and weld mild, stainless steel, copper, iron, magnesium, and aluminum. The machine provides an easy user interface for all the functions.

You can set the amperage with a Single knob for precise results and switch from TIG to MMA. Additionally, you may also switch from foot pedal to penal control during the process with a switch. The Digital current meter will tell you the current-voltage at that moment and you may adjust it as per requirement. Further, you may classify this machine as the cheapest TIG welder with extraordinary results.

PrimeWeld is providing 3 years parts warranty for this unit which has increased the customer reliability for sure. Moreover, this unit is providing all functions which are necessary for an ordinary DIY project.

9. AMICO Power ST-205 Lift-TIG torch/Stick/Arc Welder: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 115/230V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 20-200Amp Output Type: AC Weight: 15 Pounds Dimensions: 16 x 6.5 x 12 inches Warranty: 1 Year Rating: 4.3/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

AMICO Power ST-205 is a multi-function lift TIG/stick and arc force welder with a dual voltage option. Furthermore, the lift start easy arc process improves tungsten life in this machine. The digital display screen and a simple button have made it easy to switch among the processes.

It is a lightweight welder, therefore easy to carry anywhere as per the project need. Further, it is a more compact and well-designed 2-in-1 welder with 93% power efficiency. In this machine, you will get a 13-feet professional TIG torch, 10-feet electrode holder cable, and 10-feet work clamp and power cord adapter.

There is advanced IGBT inverter technology in this machine that provides an improved and stable arc. Due to the hot start and built-in arc force ST-205, the TIG torch provides an anti-sticking welding experience.

There are automatic temperature and amperage control and fan dormancy which is good for warmer surroundings. Moreover, there is an optimized electrical setup in AMICO Power ST-205 due to which machine is capable of power-saving.

In addition, the unit can handle under/over voltage, and even with fluctuations it provides a stable arc the protect its, wiring shortage. The machine is best for home use and can perform DIY projects or small onsite jobs but is good for industrial or longer tasks.

10. Reboot Stick Welder Lift-TIG, ARC140: –

Specifications: Input Voltage: 110/220V Duty Cycle: 60% Output Range: 20-140 Amp Output Type: AC Weight: 11 Pounds Dimensions: 16.26 x 11.42 x 9.45 inches Warranty: 1 Year Limited Rating: 4.2/5 CHECK PRICE

Overview:-

Reboot ARC140 welder is the lowest priced unit on our list which provides the best benefit of your cost. In addition, You can perform the stick/MMA/Lift TIG function for your quality. Moreover, in these multi-process welders, there is a long duty cycle so it is easy to perform longer tasks.

There is an advanced digital display screen from where you can easily operate and perform quality welding. There is an amazing feature that you may adjust the arc force during the process on different metal surfaces for the smooth arc. It is one of the cheapest stick welders with convincing results.

Reboot ARC140 can work with multiple rods like regular rods, stainless steel rods. All you just need is to set the current as per the rod and process requirement. For example, adjust the 30Amp for 220V and 50Amp for 110V.

In addition, there is an amazing feature of VRD (voltage reduction devices) protection, which protects the welder from any electric shock. It reduces the maximum unloaded open-circuit voltage to the safety level to avoid any mishap during welding pauses.

Further, you can use this machine for the lift-TIG process with a separate TIG torch to buy. Just connect with argon gas to start the simple process. There is an auto setting option in the voltage when you will change the current during the process. Above all, there is 30 days money-back guarantee with a 1-year limited warranty.

Things to Consider finding Best TIG Welders Under $500

There are some common points you should account for to purchase the Best budget TIG welders.

1. Easy User Interface: –

There is normally a beginner or inexperienced welder, who is in search of a Best economical TIG Welder. So, the machine configuration should be easy to understand and set up.

The digital display screen is easy to set up for a controlled welding process and weld clean-up. A welding manual or guide is also helpful to understand the machine mechanism.

2. Dual Voltage: –

There are two types of TIG welders with single voltage 120V or dual voltage 120/240V. Further, you can work with a single voltage feature but for industrial use dual voltage is a must.

There are some welding metals that require high voltage input for more arc penetration. However, using an adopter with a single voltage may also work for you.

3. Multi-Function Welders: –

There are some good multi-function welders available in the market which you may look for. Sometimes, all processes like TIG/Stick/MMA are performed along with cutting. Then you may go for 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 combo welders.

There are some good companies Lotos, PrimeWeld who made some amazing multi-process welders. For instance, we have included a few of them for you, which you may consider.

4. Portable Welders: –

While purchasing Best TIG welders under $500, you should also consider it is lightweight and portable or not. Because sometimes, there is a need to perform some welding processes outside. For this, you will need a portable and easy-to-carry TIG machines.

Additionally, you should also consider whether a TIG welder can perform the tasks with generator power along with a normal power supply.

5. Duty Cycle & Overheat Control: –

Most of TIG welders under $500 are not able to perform longer heavy tasks. But some of them which we have listed above, have up to 60% long duty cycle.

Some of the TIG welders which have long duty cycle face over-heating issue. Therefore, you must consider overheating issue and look for, whether a TIG welder has a cooling fan installed or not.

6. Advanced Technology: –

With the passage of time, advanced technologies are replacing the older ones in all the industries and welding too. Therefore, digital display screens have made welding easy to understand for beginners.

Due to advanced technology, you may save up to 10 different weld settings to perform. This feature helps very much when there are process repetitions.

In conclusion, advanced IGBT technology and Pulse Width Modulation technology have made the welding machines safer and user-friendly.

Conclusion: –

We hope these guidelines will help you to choose the Best TIG Welders for under $500. Furthermore, this will help you to gain more TIG welding relevant information.

Frequently Asked Questions: –

1. Which TIG welder is recommended for a beginner?

A beginner should first assess what type of weld tasks he has to perform, either it is a long process or short. He should also check which metal welding is required.

For a longer welding process, the welder will need a TIG machine with a long duty cycle. On the other hand, for metal like aluminum, a TIG machine with AC output will be required.

According to our research, AHP Alpha has some great features and a user-friendly interface. Further, beginners can easily understand its mechanism and use for all type of metals.

2. What is the Best cheap TIG Welder?

First, consider what type of metal you are going to weld. For aluminum welding, you will require an AC TIG machine, for all other metals you may go with a DC TIG welder. Furthermore, there are some TIG welders in which both AC/DC work, are much costlier.

PrimeWeld 200 Amp and MTS-165 are our choices as the Best cheap TIG welder, you may choose one of them. In addition, we have a list of some other cheap quality TIG welders as above.

3. Which TIG welder is best for home use?

Most of the time ordinary people do not know much about TIG welding features. Therefore, they should choose the TIG machine with an easy user interface, advanced technology, VRD voltage reduction devices installed. Finally, if you do not know much, just go and check AHP Alpha 200X and you will not regret this.

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