Tig welder recs?

chasingomas · Feb 16, 2026

Not really sure where to put this, but I'm looking for a tig welder to learn on. Specifically looking for ac/dc, and preferably pre/post flow. What's really important is easy of serviceability, reliability, durability, and under $1k. There's a lot of info out there, was hoping someone on here has hands-on experience. Thanks!

ttocs · Feb 17, 2026

it has been years since I got my welder and I didn't to a tig and went with miller so it was more than $1k, but I can give you advice that if you want metal to practice look up your local metal supplier and ask if they would care if you got some of their scrap cut offs to practice with. I did asked a local place and the guy I asked pointed me to a LARGE wooden crate in the corner that had all their cut off pieces and said to have at it. I took as much as I was comfortable scavenging and went home and started to learn.

CobraRGuy · Feb 17, 2026

I believe Harbor Freight has inexpensive TIG welders (GTAW - gas tungsten arc welding). For a new one they're going to be the most affordable. You'll need to buy a shield gas cylinder.
Lincoln is (arguably) the best out there with Miller a very close second.
You may want to check Go Dove (go-dove.com) for commercial auctions with used welders. They usually have a few, but they are hit and miss.

RAU03MACH · Feb 17, 2026

im a mig or the stick guy myself
tig not so much

badass98svt · Feb 18, 2026

Hobart is another great name to check out.

96blak54 · Feb 18, 2026

Eastwood the autobody company carries a great machine and wont break the bank. The have a great warranty too

ttocs · Feb 18, 2026

I would buy it local no matter what ya do. With the weight they have you do not want to have to pay shipping one way if you have a problem and need warranty work done.

96blak54 · Feb 19, 2026

Thats a valid point! Problems do occur and its nice to be able to return to a brick and mortar store for quick turn around times. Harbor freight is wonderful for something like that and they carry all the consumables needed for their machines.

chasingomas · Feb 20, 2026

ttocs said:
it has been years since I got my welder and I didn't to a tig and went with miller so it was more than $1k, but I can give you advice that if you want metal to practice look up your local metal supplier and ask if they would care if you got some of their scrap cut offs to practice with. I did asked a local place and the guy I asked pointed me to a LARGE wooden crate in the corner that had all their cut off pieces and said to have at it. I took as much as I was comfortable scavenging and went home and started to learn.

that is a fucking fantastic idea, thank you! I very much learn by sitting down and doing the thing over and over, so this is so helpful.

chasingomas · Feb 20, 2026

wow, thank you for all the responses; it made focusing my research a lot easier! My final choices are between a titanium tig from harbor, or the rockwood from east bay. The rockwood is cheaper, but doesn't have pre/post flow, and is shipped, while the harbor freight is decently more expensive (175-200$ more), but is local and has all the little things I want. I feel like I should get the slightly more expensive one, because of all the features, but I'm just worried about having to get gear on top of it. Is used welding gear (mask/gloves) used ok? Would for sure need a good clean....lol