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TIG welders work with thin material and metals like stainless steel and aluminum. That is not something other forms of welding can handle.

But there are hundreds of TIG welder choices out there. You have likely wondered which is TIG welder is the best if you are in the market for one.

To simplify your search, we have researched the 10 best TIG welders and compiled the list below.

In case You’re in a hurry

The AHP Alpha TIG200X rose to the top of our list with a balance of features that make for a versatile welder. With this machine, you have control over the entire welding process. Plus, the price is affordable.

TIG200X uses the latest inverter technology that is efficient and durable. It can perform TIG and stick welds and can handle 20 ga to ¼” thick aluminum and steel up to ⅜” thick.

If you are willing to spend a little more money for simplified operation, you can opt for the Hobart EZ-TIG 165i. It also has one of the best warranties.

The user interface is a single dial and one switch making setup fast and easy. This machine welds best with 22 gauge to 3/16 thick material. It is well built and you can use this welder in a light-duty fabrication shop (e.g. auto body repair and fabrication).

Top 10 TIG Welders

We reviewed and summarized the best 10 TIG welders for light to moderate duty use. For your quick reference, we also note the pros and cons of each unit reviewed.


1. AHP AlphaTIG 201XD Review - Best Overall and Most Versatile

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  • Cutting edge inverter technology
  • 201XD includes better foot pedal compared to the old 200X model
  • Can be powered with 110 or 220 volts
  • Pulse control for both AC and DC
  • TIG and stick capable
  • Flex head torch
  • Affordable
  • Moderate learning curve
  • No tungsten included
check price

Power Supply: 110/220V︱Net Weight: 69 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 60% @ 200A︱Amps: 10-200 | Warranty: 3 years

For under $1,000, the Alpha TIG 201XD packs plenty of power. Plus, it has options that compete with more expensive machines. This welder will work in most shops except for heavy fabrication shops.

The unit is an AC/DC TIG welder designed to handle thin materials and aluminum, stainless steel, or steel. Changing between AC and DC is as simple as flipping a switch.

But you can do more than TIG welding. This unit will stick weld, too. Users are often surprised at the performance of the stick welder (140A @ 110V and 200A @ 240V).

On the inside, Alpha employed insulated-gate bipolar transistors (“IGBT”) with pulse width modulation (“PWM”). This technology allows the unit to run under high loads for longer periods of time.

The inverter also uses square wave technology that makes welding aluminum easier. Further, you can adjust many aspects of the pulse feature. You can fine-tune the settings to optimize your welds.

Also, you are able to power the 200EX with 110v or 220v inputs (the adapter plug for 120V is included). This allows welding in more locations if you do not mind moving a 50-pound main unit around.

For those who like control, this unit also includes a two-touch or four-touch (2T/4T) option. This allows remote finger control on the torch when a foot pedal is not practical. But, with this unit, you cannot ramp the current up or down like on some other units.

Also, high frequency (“HF”) ignition assists with smooth starts. You can arc without touching the material. As a result, you get better arc control while welding stainless or thin metals. You also prevent tungsten/material damage or contamination.

You can trigger ignition with two different methods. Use the Nova foot pedal or the provided finger trigger installed on the torch. 4T operation needs the torch trigger to operate. But it makes TIG welding possible when using a foot pedal is impractical.

The control panel is a little busy, but it also gives you lots to control. It is a good idea to read the manual first. You want to be sure you know what all the knobs and switches do before your first weld.


2. Hobart 500551 EZ-TIG 165i Review - Best Interface

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  • Simple to use
  • AC/DC welds
  • HF start
  • On-demand fans
  • Foot pedal is comfortable and responsive
  • 5/3/1 warranty
  • Single power supply (230V)
  • Not as powerful as other welders
  • No stick welding
check price

Power Supply: 230V︱Net Weight: 60 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 20% @ 165A︱Amps: 10-165 | Warranty: 5/3/1 years

Those leery of the complex control panels on many TIG welders need to look at the Hobart EZ-TIG 165i welder. You turn one dial to set the thickness of the metal and flip one switch to select an AC or DC output. That’s it, besides the on/off switch.

This unit is best for 22 gauge to 3/16 thick material. You use AC for aluminum and DC for steel, stainless steel, Chromoly, etc.

The EZ-TIG 165i is an inverter-based design that includes a foot control. The body weighs 50 pounds and you can move it if necessary.

A Fan-On-Demand feature allows the fans to run only when needed. This feature reduces the dust and debris pulled into the unit. It also helps to reduce the constant noise of a running fan.

While this unit is basic, it does include an HF start. This allows for starting an arc without touching the material. This feature also prevents sticking and contamination of the tungsten and materials.

Also, the EZ-TIG 165i includes a RFCS-RJ45 foot pedal that is comfortable. Many welders find this pedal responsive and easy to use.

You can only use a single-phase 240V power supply with this unit. If you were hoping to use 120V outlets, this is not your welder.

The Hobart warranty is better than most. They offer a 5/3/1 warranty. (Five-years on transformers, stabilizers and main rectifiers; three years on generators, PC boards and drive system; and one year on guns like MIG, plasma and TIG torches).

The cost of the EZ-TIG 165i is under $1,500 and it is a solid unit for those who want simplicity when using their TIG welder. It is perfect for the home enthusiast, or a shop with light to moderate TIG welding needs.


3. Lotos TIG 200 Review - Best Value

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  • Affordable
  • AC/DC welding
  • 110V or 220V power supply
  • HF start
  • Square wave inverter
  • 1 year warranty
  • Foot pedal can be difficult and uncomfortable
  • The pedal cord is too long and can get in the way
  • Other units do better with thicker material
check price

Power Supply: 110/220V︱Net Weight: 58 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 60% @ 190A︱Amps: 10-200 | Warranty: 1 year

The Lotos TIG 200 is a powerful welder with a 60% duty cycle at 190 amps. Plus, you can stick weld with this unit. So, it can handle a lot of projects and should meet the needs of professional shops with light to moderate welding duties.

Add a price tag under $700 and you have a TIG welder that deserves consideration.

This unit includes HF start, remote torch control, and a foot pedal. These help to make the welder a versatile unit that is easy and consistent to use.

Inside, the AC square wave inverter allows for accurate welding of aluminum. Flip a switch to DC, and you are ready for steel, stainless, or other metals. But, separate pulse adjustments found on competing units are missing on the Lotos TIG 200.

This unit does include a stick welder with a 200A output. To change from TIG to MMA welding, you just flip a well labeled switch and swap your torch for the stinger. The stick welder does expand what the machine can do, making it more versatile.

Also included is the ability to power up with 110V or 220V. Use the included 110V pigtail adapter and plug it into 120V outlets when 220V is not available. Combined with a manageable weight, you can use the Lotos TIG 200 in remote locations if necessary.

There were a few issues. The clearance knob is confusing as it is not explained in the manual. Users also found the foot pedal cord was too long and it got in the way at times.

In addition, the filler material and some other items are not included. You will have to purchase these separately.

One final comment, this machine worked well on thinner (e.g. ⅛”) material for most users. But was not as effective on thicker. It did weld up to the ⅜” steel as claimed, but not as effortlessly.


4. Miller Diversion 180 Review - Best for Welding Enthusiasts

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  • Simple to use
  • AC/DC welds
  • Dual power supply voltages
  • HF start
  • Expensive
  • Fixed torch, no stick welding
check price

Power Supply: 120/240V︱Net Weight: 65 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 35% @ 125A︱Amps: 10-180 | Warranty: 3 years

Miller has been in the welding game for a long time and has built a good reputation. The Miller Diversion 180 TIG Welder is new, but it has the solid build quality found in other Miller welders.

The included dual power supply option makes this welder versatile. Simply select the proper adapter for the available electrical outlet and plug it in. Miller includes the adapters.

The core unit only weighs 50 pounds and Miller has included two beefy handles, one on the front and one at the back. This allows one or two people to pick it up and move it around, if necessary.

Miller promotes this as an entry-level TIG welder. But it does include some nice features. For example, HF starting allows non-contact arcing to prevent tungsten and material contamination.

It also has an on-demand fan that cuts down on the noise and reduces the amount of dust and debris sucked into the unit.

Unlike some of the other TIG welders on our list, this unit has a torch that is permanently attached to the machine. This means it only TIG welds, no stick with this one.

What makes this product stand out is the simplicity. You select your material (and hence AC or DC welding), set the thickness, and you are ready to weld. This allows for quick and easy welding, which some prefer.

The versatility, build quality, and simplicity makes for a sound unit. This welder is a good fit for shops with light TIG welding demands. But you will pay a little more for this TIG welder compared to others on our list.


5. Everlast 210EXT Review - Best for Repetitive Work

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  • AC/DC welding
  • 110V or 220V power supply
  • AC Square wave and separate pulse settings
  • 2T/4T control of amperage
  • HF of Lift start
  • Can use with a generator
  • 5 year warranty
  • Learning curve
  • Expensive
check price

Power Supply: 120/240V︱Net Weight: 60 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 60% @ 160A︱Amps: 5-210 | Warranty: 5 years

If you do repetitive welds, the Everlast 210EXT will be of interest. You can call up preset parameters to use the same settings at any time. This eliminates searching for your notes and setting all the parameters manually.

Once you have determined the best settings for your particular job, just save them. No need to set each control separately the next time. Just recall your program and you are ready to do the same job with optimal settings. You can store up to 9 programs in this unit.

The control panel appears complex at first. But it gives users good control over their welds. Fortunately, Everlast includes a user manual written in English. Using the well laid out instructions, the learning curve is not as severe as you might think.

Speaking of weld control, note this unit can output as low as 5 amps. For specialized work, you may want a very low current to achieve the desired results.

Another nice feature for even more control is the  2T/4T option. This lets you adjust the amount of current over the entire welding process. Plus, this unit also allows you to choose an HF or a lift start. You have total control over the total welding process, from preheat to end.

The inverter does have square wave capabilities. You also have separate pulse control settings for precise control.

It is easy to get lost in all the TIG welding settings and you can forget this also a stick welder. The stick has a max output of 160A and you can adjust the arc force.

You are able to plug this welder into both 120V or 240V outlets. A plug adapter comes included to make converting the welders 240V prongs over to 120V simple. There is also a rugged handle to move the unit. So, it is possible to use this machine if necessary.

We could also call the 210EXT the best welder for use with a generator. Everlast is also known for their generators. So, it is not surprising to find that they recommend use with a generator. (Everlast claims the 210EXT has a power correction factor of 99%).

Everlast includes a flip-down cover that protects the control panel from weld spatter and damage. Overall, the general build quality is good and they back up the unit with a 5-year warranty.

This unit would be ideal for light to moderate duty work with repetitive tasks. Auto body shops and other fabricators can reduce their setup time. You get to the welding faster without having to fuss with a bunch of dials to find the proper settings.


6. Lincoln Square Wave TIG200 Review - Best Operation with Gloves

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  • AC/DC welding
  • 110V or 220V power supply
  • Pulse control
  • HF start for aluminum
  • Portable
  • Smooth foot pedal
  • A bit pricey
  • Does not include torch finger trigger
check price

Power Supply: 120/230V︱Net Weight: 46 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 40% @ 160A︱Amps: 10-200 | Warranty: 3 years

Lincoln is a name known in professional welding shops. Add to that TIG and stick welding ability with a price that home enthusiasts might be willing to pay. You get the Lincoln Square Wave TIG200 and it is going to draw attention.

This welder uses both 120V or 240V power supplies. You simply connect the correct power cord for the outlets you have available. The included power cords twist to lock into the back of the machine. This feature avoids pulling them out while working.

Once powered, the TIG200 outputs 10 to 200 amps @ 240V for TIG welding and 10-170A @ 240V when stick welding. The stated duty cycle was a bit lower than some other units, but this did not appear to be a problem with users.

As sold, this unit comes only with a foot pedal control. A finger trigger for the torch is not included.

The control panel is not busy, but you can control a surprising number of variables. Set the AC frequency range or adjust the pulse settings, you have control with this welder.

Another nice feature of the control panel, you can set the parameters with your gloves on. With some of the other units, you can not do this.

Almost buried in the feature list, HF start is also available when welding aluminum.

This machine is portable at 46 pounds. With the ability to use 120 or 240-volt power supplies, you can TIG and stick weld just about anywhere.

The TIG200 is a good choice for a home enthusiast’s workshop or in shops with light fabrication needs. But it does not have the power of industrial machines found in larger fabrication shops.

One point for those who are new to TIG welding, the manual is not the best. It helps to get you acquainted with things. But if you are a novice, you will likely need to augment the manual with some of your own research online.

Pricewise, this unit leans toward the higher end of our list’s range. But you get a versatile machine from a well-known manufacturer. You can TIG and stick weld with advanced features that are easy to use.


7. Primeweld TIG225X Review - Best Stock Torch

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  • CK 17 superflex torch
  • IGBT and PWM technology
  • Can run on 120V or 230V
  • HF start
  • Sloping functions
  • Pulse function
  • Heavy
  • Not as well known as other manufacturers
  • No online manual
  • Foot pedal can be uncomfortable and unresponsive
check price

Power Supply: 110/220V︱Net Weight: 90 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 100% @ 155A︱Amps: 10-225 | Warranty: 3 years

A CK Worldwide 17 Series Superflex TIG Torch and a CK Superflex hose come with the Primeweld TIG255X. For those who do not know, this is an excellent torch not usually included with a machine that costs less than $1,000.

The TIG255X also comes with a good foot pedal. Primeweld did well to supply quality in the two devices touched by a user during the welding process.

But a welder needs power and a user-friendly arc, too. You get 225A of power with the TIG255X, more than that found on other units. Users have found it is actually difficult to activate the overheating protection. Plus, the arc is smooth.

The IGBT technology inside along with PWM offers the latest in welding technology. The TIG welder can handle ¼ in. thick aluminum and ⅜ in. thick mild steel. But there is also a stick welder, too, which expands the tasks this welder can do.

It also includes HF start and pulse control. This gives you good control of your current and heat. You can minimize or eliminate warping and other common problems.

As for portability, the unit does accommodate both 110 and 220-volt power supplies. However, this is a heavy unit with a net weight of 90 pounds. Most users would not consider this to be a portable welder.

One thing users did notice, the fans are loud and it did bother some people. Also, the supplied foot pedal gets tiresome if you do a lot of welding. Plus, it is not as responsive as the Nova foot pedal found on other units.

Primeweld is not as well known as some manufacturers. But it does sell this unit with a three-year warranty, which is pretty standard for this level of TIG welder.

The included CK torch and 255A are unique to this unit. As a result, the TIG255X will appeal to a certain group of welders with light to moderate TIG welding needs.


8. Forney 324 MIG/Stick/TIG 3-in-one Review - Best Multi-Tasker

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  • TIG, MIG, and Stick welding in one unit
  • Runs on 120V or 230
  • Simplified controls
  • Portable
  • 5/3/1 warranty
  • TIG torch, foot pedal, and spool gun must be purchased separately
  • Few TIG control options
check price

Power Supply: 110/220V︱Net Weight: 43 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 20% @ 170A︱Amps: 15-190 | Warranty: 5/3/1 years

For those who like a multi-tasker, take a look at the Forney 324 MIG/Stick/TIG 3-in-one. Some of the other welders on our list can stick and TIG weld, but none of them MIG weld.

So, for those who want to pack three forms of welding into one unit, this welder might be your answer. A home enthusiast or a small fabrication operation may find this versatility useful.

Power supply can be either 110 or 220 volts. Combined with the manageable weight, you could transport this welder. So, you can use it in a wide variety of situations.

The unit comes with the stick and MIG set-up, as well as a flow meter and gas hose. But there is no TIG torch, spool gun, or foot pedal. So you will have to purchase those separately

For TIG welding, the controls are simple. This also means you have less control than you would with some of the other units on our list. However, the included quick start guide will help you start stacking dimes soon.

Forney offers a 5/3/1 warranty. This is better than most and the company is a recognized name in the welder industry.

This unit is a good choice for the home welding enthusiast. Those who need a variety of welding options to run their operation might like this welder, too. That would include auto body shops, farms, ranches, maintenance, and repair work, as well as some contractors.


9. Longevity 200SX Review - Best for Beginners

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  • Light and portable
  • Pre and post flow adjustment
  • Clearance allows some pulse control
  • Can plug into 120 and 240 volt outlets
  • Runs on generator power
  • HF and lift start
  • Stick welding option
  • Managable learning curve
  • 1 year warranty
  • No remote torch control
  • Foot pedal is tiresome
check price

Power Supply: 110/220V︱Net Weight: 41 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 60% @ 200A︱Amps: 10-200 | Warranty: 1 year

The Longevity 200SX comes with a nice set of accessories at an attractive price. Plus, it is a little lighter than similar competing welders which makes it a bit easier to move around. For a novice welder who is looking to learn TIG welding, this is worth a look.

With IGBT technology and a 60% duty cycle, this machine falls into the light to moderate duty category.

The HF or lift starts and the included foot pedal makes the welding process smoother and easier. So, you should be able to weld aluminum faster than you thought possible.

The lift start is a welcome addition. Sure, HF allows for smooth ignition with no sticking or contamination. But it also interferes with sensitive electronics. So, you cannot use it around things like CNC machines. The option to change over to a lift start is a nice option.

By the way, this machine does have the ability to convert over to a stick welder. The 195A output makes it useful for a variety of jobs.

You can power the unit with 110 or 220 volts. And if needed, you can also use a generator (8,500 watts is recommended). With a core unit weighing 37 pounds, you can easily move this unit around and power it up just about anywhere.

The control panel is not as busy as some other welders, but you will find four knobs and four switches. The learning curve is moderate. The user manual is okay, but it is a little sparse for novice users.

If you want to use the 200SX at high amps for long periods, you should know that there is a water cooler from Longevity. It is expensive, but it will keep your torch cool.

Overall, this is a good choice for newcomers or as a teaching aid. The power is good. But for auto body shops or other light-duty fabricators, you need to upgrade the torch and foot pedal.


10. Razorweld Digital Tig 200 AC/DC Review - Best for Maintenance Jobs

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  • Lightweight, portable
  • Includes comfortable foot pedal
  • HF start and 2T/4T control
  • Remote control on torch
  • Stick welds
  • Can use both 120 and 240V outlets
  • Compatible with generators
  • Expensive
  • Moderate learning curve
check price

Power Supply: 115/230V︱Net Weight: 36 lbs.︱Duty Cycle: 35% @ 200A︱Amps: 10-200 | Warranty: 3 years

Advances in inverter technology have given us more durable and efficient welders. The Razorweld Digital 200 Amp AC/DC TIG welder takes this to an extreme getting the net weight down to 36 lbs in a machine loaded with features.

A growing number of TIG welders are using IGBT inverter technology. But most are still around 50 pounds and they lack the options found in the Razorweld 200 AC/DC.

Some examples of the features in the Razorweld 200 include HF start, 2T/4T trigger with spot time adjustment, remote torch amp control, stick welding with arc force control, and adjustable pulse frequency in both AC and DC mode.

The wealth of features provides you with control over the quality of your welds. But the manufacturer simplified the control panel. It consists of three touchpads with one universal dial to change all the settings. Everything else on the control panel is indicator lights.

The indicator lights on the panel can be a bit confusing at first. But the color user manual is helpful and the learning curve is not as bad as you think on the first impression.

The unit can use 115 or 230 volts as a power source. With a manageable weight and the ability to stick weld, this welder is ideal for maintenance jobs where welding on site is necessary.

The Razor Digital TIG 200 is also compatible with generators (they recommend 9.0 KVA 230V). This unit along with a generator will have you welding in remote locations where power outlets are hard to find.


Product Buying Guide

There are a number of terms used when discussing TIG welders. So, for those shopping for a TIG welder, a review of the more common phrases and topics may help with your search.

Power Supply

You can use 120 or 240 volts outlets depending on your selected machine. Today, it is not uncommon to find machines capable of using both.

If you are going to use your TIG welder on the road, you should go for a unit that can use both power sources. You should also make sure the adapter plugs come included. We all know 240V outlets can be hard to come by in most locations.

Also, TIG welders and generators are not always compatible. But some do run with generator power. Make sure you select a TIG welder specifically designed for use with generators if you work in remote locations.

Duty cycle

The amount of time you can run your machine over a ten minute period is called the duty cycle. So, a 60% duty cycle means you can run 6 out of 10 minutes. The welder needs the other 4 minutes for the machine to cool.

But understanding this rating is slightly more complicated than just the % rating. The duty cycle should also let you know the amperage used to determine the rating.

So, a proper duty cycle rating would read something like 60% @ 180A. Even better, it would read 60% @ 180A, 240V. The duty ratings on our list were for 240V and most data sheets will report the duty cycle using a 240V source, too. But you should check to make sure.

Power Output

One of the calling cards of a TIG welder is the ability to weld aluminum and thin material. To do this, you want to avoid warping or damaging your piece. Setting the output current at certain points in the weld helps to control your heat.

Most TIG welders manufacturers list their product’s output. 10-200A is common for the home enthusiast and smaller shops. Some machines will go lower than 10A, and that is good for some applications.

But for heavy welding needs, you may need more than 200A. The bottom line is you need to determine what and how much you intend to weld. Then make sure the power output of your selected machine can deliver it.

IGBT and Pulse Settings

IGBT stands for insulated-gate bipolar transistor. This is the latest inverter technology and it is transforming TIG welders. IGBT is more efficient which means you can run higher amps for longer. Plus, the welders can be smaller and lighter.

So, if you have demanding welds, IGBT in a welder is a technology you may want. But do not forget to look for the controls offered on each TIG welder.

IGBT can deliver an AC square wave, which allows more time for the arc in both the heat and cool phases as the arc pulses. You can set the high and low end of the pulse on some machines, as well as the number of pulses per minute.

Dialing in your pulse rate and strength for a particular weld will take your work to the next level. If that is something you aspire to, look for sufficient pulse control on a welder.

On Torch Remote/Trigger

TIG welders control the output amperage with the foot pedal. So, why do some machines offer remote control on the torch that you operate with your finger? Well, not all welds allow you to use the foot pedal.

This is common when working on cars where you can get the torch into place, but using a foot pedal is just not practical. So, the torch trigger or remote is necessary to do your weld.

Not all machines can incorporate a torch trigger. So, if that is a feature you want or need, make sure the units you are considering can accommodate the option.

2T/4T

With a foot pedal, you continuously adjust the amperage as you weld. But like we just mentioned, there are times where a foot pedal will not work.

In these instances, you must use a trigger mounted on the torch. You activate this trigger with your finger to start and end your weld. There are two modes common for remote finger triggering, 2T and 4T.

The 2T and 4T stand for two trigger and four trigger operation.

2T mode can be used with a foot pedal or a torch trigger. It simply engages a preset current when you press and hold the trigger or foot pedal. When you let go, the weld stops. You can also set how the amps ramp up and down at the start and end of the weld on some machines.

With 4T, you press and hold the trigger to preheat the material, then let go to ramp up to the set weld amperage. At the end of the weld, you press and hold the trigger again to ramp down to the end amperage, and let go to end the weld.

One advantage of 4T is that it lets you get set before the full welding current kicks in. You also do not have to hold the trigger on long welds and that makes it easier on your finger. Many users find the long runs where foot pedal control is not possible useful.

HF and Lift Starting

HF stands for high frequency. It is a useful feature, particularly when welding aluminum with AC. You do not have to touch the material to initiate an arc.

You hover the electrode over the material and an arc starts. This makes the start of your welds go more smoothly. No contact avoids tungsten and material contamination. It also prevents sticking and damage to the welding electrode.

However, the high frequency can damage sensitive electronics. You cannot use it around things like CNC machines. So, there is another choice, lift start. This process might look like an old fashioned strike start at first, but it is far from that.

To use lift start, you first touch the electrode to the material. The welder then knows to be ready to start. Then you then lift the tip of the electrode and the welder ramps up the current.

Lift start prevents a harmful current flow when the electrode contacts the material. But it also allows for a smooth, damage free start as you lift the torch.