Buyers Guide: How to Select the Best TIG Welder Under $1000
Aug. 19, 2022
Buyers Guide: How to Select the Best TIG Welder Under $1000
AC/DC
TIG welders run DC amps for standard steel and stainless steel welding. If you want the option to weld aluminum, it’s essential to purchase a welder that runs AC as well. These are generally more expensive machines, as there is a significant internal change to weld AC, but aluminum won’t be TIG welded any other way (unless you’re absolutely desperate and weld quality doesn’t matter).
Output
Your requirements for welding will determine the different output needs you should look for in a TIG welder. AC/DC and amperage are the two primary considerations.
Amperage
The material thickness you want to weld will determine the amperage range required in a welder. Very thin sheet metal needs a welder to go down to a tiny amperage range, and thick sections with a large volume of weld require high amperage capabilities to achieve the necessary heat.
A tiny amperage range is generally harder to come by than a high amperage range, although most TIG welders will run 20 to 100 amps comfortably. Figure out how many amps you need for the welding you do, so you can have a realistic amperage range in mind.
Having a welding margin slightly outside the specific size you need will help ensure you’re safe. You don’t want to weld too hot or cold due to your machine not quite reaching your required amperage if things don’t line up as you anticipate. 10 percent less than one amp per 0.001 inch of metal is a good guide to get a rough idea for the amperage range you need.
Arc starts
High-frequency starts are when the arc is initiated by pressing the torch trigger when the tungsten tip is a small distance away from the metal. This is the easiest way to start your arc because your tungsten tip can’t stick to the metal you’re welding.
You can also be in the correct position before starting the arc, and then once it’s started, you can direct the pool along without realigning. Aside from the ease of this arc start, it causes no contamination to your weld due to the tungsten and metal never touching.
Lift starts are when the tip touches the metal lightly, and then once it’s lifted, the arc is formed. It’s an easy way to start, like high-frequency starts, but it adds a small amount of contamination to your weld due to the metal and tip touching.
Scratch starts are like the way stick welders start their arc. The tungsten tip scratches the metal surface to strike an arc, like striking a match. This is a more difficult way to start, as it can be inconsistent forming the arc, and there is much more contamination than the other two arc starts. However, scratch start machines are easy to manufacture, which is why lower-priced machines often have them.
Quality
Just because a welder costs less than $1000 doesn’t mean it lacks the quality of a more expensive machine. There are many low-quality machines under $1000, but there are also some well-built machines that are sold for a lower price due to having fewer features or because they’re not a known brand name.
Unless you’re just starting and don’t mind a low-quality machine, it’s better to look for a welder that’s made well so you can have confidence that it will last. You may pay slightly more for better quality, but you’ll save money in the long run with less maintenance and not having to replace it quickly.
Accessories
There is a range of other accessories that come with TIG welders that is good to be aware of before choosing a TIG welder. They can be purchased separately from the machine itself if they’re not included, but they’re more expensive separately than when they’re added into the overall price of a welder.
A foot pedal is a device that allows you to adjust the amperage range you weld at during the fusing process. It’s like a pedal on a car: the more you engage it, the more amperage you’ll produce. You’ll also minimize amperage by letting off the pedal.
In less expensive welders, the machines are purpose-built for one process and have other processes added into them. Make sure the TIG welding function is the primary function if you look into a multi-process welder.
A plasma cutter can also be a part of a multi-process TIG welder. It’s handy being able to cut and weld with the same machine, and it can save you a lot of money compared to buying the two separately.
Guangzhou EACO Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. — A Leader in Professional Welding Solutions
Established in 1987, Guangzhou EACO Electric Equipment Co., Ltd. (formerly Guangzhou Fenghuo Industrial Co., Ltd.) has been dedicated to the research, development, and manufacturing of professional welding machines and plasma cutting systems. With nearly four decades of experience, EACO provides high-quality, high-performance welding solutions trusted by industries worldwide.
Advanced Digital Welding Technology for Precision and Efficiency
From pioneering the first generation of magnetic saturation argon arc welders to today’s fully digitally controlled platforms, EACO continuously innovates to deliver industrial-grade welding machines. Our digital control systems ensure stable welding processes and precise parameter adjustments, minimizing weld defects and guaranteeing consistent weld quality.
Multi-Function Welders to Meet Diverse Welding Needs
Our AC/DC TIG welders support welding of steel, stainless steel, and aluminum — critical for automotive manufacturing, aerospace, shipbuilding, bridge construction, steel structures, and heavy machinery industries. Some models integrate plasma cutting functions, offering cutting and welding capabilities in one machine, saving costs and workspace.
High Performance and Cost-Effective Solutions
EACO welders cover a wide amperage range to accommodate thin sheet metal to thick sections, ensuring optimal heat control for various materials. Even in the under-$1000 price range, our products combine durability and excellent welding performance, helping customers save money without compromising quality.
Innovative Arc Starting Technologies for Safe and Easy Welding
Equipped with high-frequency start technology, EACO welders allow easy arc ignition without tungsten sticking to the workpiece, resulting in cleaner welds. Foot pedal accessories enable precise amperage control during welding, enhancing operator flexibility and process control.
Trusted by a Wide Range of Industries
Our equipment is widely used in automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, steel structure, and heavy machinery manufacturing, meeting stringent welding requirements. EACO has earned honors such as “Well-Reputed Manufacturer,” “High-Credit Enterprise,” and “High-Tech Enterprise,” earning the trust of professional users globally.
Comprehensive After-Sales Support and Technical Assistance
With a modern production base covering over 4,000 square meters, EACO offers prompt after-sales service and technical support. Our expert team assists customers in troubleshooting and maintenance, ensuring stable equipment operation and reducing downtime.
Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly
Our digital welders consume less power compared to traditional machines, supporting green manufacturing initiatives. Improved welding efficiency reduces energy consumption and material waste, enhancing overall productivity.
Why Choose EACO TIG Welders?
Nearly 40 years of dedicated welding technology expertise
Wide amperage range for welding various metal thicknesses
High-frequency arc start for cleaner and easier welding
Multi-function machines with integrated plasma cutting options
Complete accessories including foot pedal for better control
Strict quality management ensuring durability and safety
Professional after-sales team ready to support your needs
For more product details and pricing, please contact us. We are committed to providing you with professional welding solutions to elevate your industrial welding projects.
Conclusion
TIG welders come with a range of incredible options, and there are some impressive machines under $1000.
We hope our reviews of the best TIG welders under $1000 have been helpful to you and you’ve found what you're seeking. Feel free to leave us your message. We'd be glad to help you.
