Figuring out which TIG torch to buy can be a nightmare.
In today’s market, there are numerous TIG torch types and sizes created by different manufacturers designed for various purposes.
It is enough to make your brain hurt just by thinking about it.
Nevertheless, picking a good one from a slew of TIG torches can make or break your future project. Based on our research we give you advice on how to pick one for you and also give a reviews of the best TIG torches based on our opinion.
Best TIG Torches Comparison Table
| Image | Name | Features | Rated Power | Lead Length | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Best For Money | YesWelder Flexible TIG Welding Torch 13ft 250A/350A Get 10% Off With Coupon: “-10% WELDPROS” | Best For Money Water Cooled HF TIG Start | AC 250A DC 350A | 13ft | Check Current Price YesWelder |
 Best For Money | Lift TIG Welding Torch WP-17V 12FT 150A Get 10% Off With Coupon: “-10% WELDPROS” | Air Cooled Lift/Scratch Start | DC 150A AC 120A | 12ft | Check Current Price YesWelder |
 Cheap & Long - fits on most welders | WeldingCity 150-amp WP-17FV 25 feet TIG Torch | Air Cooled Lift/Scratch Start | 150A | 25ft | Check Current Price Amazon |
 Best for Eastwood Welder | Eastwood WP26F TIG Torch | Water Cooled Flex Head | 200 A | 12.5 ft | Check Current Price Eastwood |
 Best for AC/DC | Eastwood Water Cooled WP18F/20F TIG Welder Torch | Water Cooled HF TIG Start | 350A/250A | 12.5 ft | Check Current Price Eastwood WP18 Check Current Price Eastwood WP20 |
 Pro-Torch SeriesPro-Torch Series | Lincoln Electric PTA-9 Ready to Weld TIG Torch | Air-cooled Rigid Torch Head Pro-Torch | 125 A | 12.5 ft | Check Current Price Amazon |
| Lincoln Electric PTW-20 TIG Torch | Water Cooled 100% Duty Cycle at 250A | 250A | 25 ft | Check Current Price Amazon |
Best TIG Torches Reviews
If you are a beginner welder and are only getting into the welding trade, chances are you are going to spend long hours picking a good TIG torch for you. The problem lies in having so many options these days. This should not be something to complain about as having options is a good thing. But even experienced welders sometimes have trouble picking good features on the TIG torch.
Getting a correct TIG torch, even for practical usage, can take you a long time to get the best results. Many times brands claim that their product has the best features. In reality, there are a whole lot of different things that you need to look at first and. Some people always go for the most expensive piece of equipment selection with a well-known brand stamped on it, which is wrong.
Check out the list of the best TIG torches reviews information and everything we have devised for you.
1. YesWelder TIG-250P ACDC Water-cooled Torch
This TIG torch from YesWelder is an affordable replacement for the much more famous model Masterweld WP20 25r. But besides not being expensive, it comes with many premium TIG torches features.
Heat can be devastating for torches, and they wear off after a while, meaning that you will be shopping for a replacement really soon.
One of the features is the fact that this TIG torch handles heat pretty well thanks to its built-in water-cooled torches system. As a result, you can work longer periods without stopping and worrying about the torch overheating.
The YesWelder Water Cooled Torch is rated at 350 amps DC @ 100% and 250 amps @ 100% AC. It also possesses a 13-foot-long lead which allows you to move about without it hampering your productivity. The torch is compatible with standard kit accessories WP-17/18/26 TIG welding torch.
However, the cooling system and high amp rating make this torch bulkier, so it is somewhat aimed at heavier-duty applications. In addition, the TIG torch head is fixed, so it is somewhat less versatile. While the manufacturer recommends a torch with YesWelder TIG-250P, welders use it perfectly with many different machines, such as Miller Dynasty or Prime Weld 225, and use it for various applications.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Best for money value water-cooled torch option
- Has high amperage output
- Changeable cups fit most wp17/18/26 torches
- Long lead
- Some decent features for a great price
- Great replacement for expensive Masterweld wp20 25r
Cons
- Pay attention to cooling lines before welding to avoid leakage
Specifications
- Cooling method: Water cooled torch.
- Rated amperage: 350 amp @ 100% DC, 250 amps @ duty cycle 100% AC
- Head type: Fixed head torch.
- Gas Line (Red) Connection: M14*1.5
- Water Supply Line (Blue) Connection: M16*1.5
- Power/ Water Return Cable Connection: M16*1.5
- Lead length: 13 ft.
2. YesWelder Lift TIG WeldingTorch WP-17V
If you want a quality TIG torch without having to pay the outrageous prices that big brands are asking for, then the YesWelder WP17 air-cooled torch is a great choice.
This one comes with an air-cooled TIG torch system and a maximum amperage of 150 amps (torch rated 35% DC @ 150 amps, 35% AC @ 120 amps).
You can weld even beyond 150 amps, but it is not advised to do so, as the air-cooling system operation is not meant to handle that kind of power.
Nevertheless, with the compact size, gas valve, and 12 FT medium-length cord, you can get into all kinds of positions while TIG welding. WP-17V torch from YesWelder utilizes a 5/8G Connector, and there are two models. While they essentially look the same, one is recommended for the YesWelder MIG series (MIG-205DS and MIG PRO 250), while the other pairs with Arc series stick welders. Torch utilizes a Lift TIG start, which is not the most advanced, as many machines in the industry utilize High frequency.
Considering all the features, it is worth investing in the YesWelder Air-Cooled torch as it offers high value for the price you pay for it. Many welders consider this torch does the job well for the price, but some had issues with leakage or poor gas flow straight out of the box. Nonetheless, YesWelder’s customer service shipped out the replacement and offered solutions promptly.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Best for money value air-cooled option
- Decent for medium-duty applications
- Built-in gas valve
- Great for workshop and beginners
- Welds great, decent materials
- 30 days return policy
Cons
- Lift TIG start
- Some had issues straight out of the box
Specifications
- Cooling method: welding torch Air cooled.
- Rated current amperage: 150 amp @ 35% DC, 120 amps @ duty cycle 35% AC
- Head type: Fixed torch head with the gas valve.
- Power/Gas cable connection: 5/8G Connector
- Recommended for: YesWelder MIG205DS, MIG PRO 250
- Lead length: 12 ft.
3. WeldingCity 150-amp WP-17F (Flexible Head) 25-ft Power Cable Hose Air-cooled TIG Welding Torch
The WP 17F series TIG torch created by WeldingCity company is a low-cost (budget) TIG Torch option with a flexible head. But don’t let the price tag fool you, as it is quite capable of serving you in your garage and welding shop as long as you aren’t overloading it.
However, it can’t be used for high-frequency start and automatic gas settings welders. Also, you should avoid high-intensity work seen on production sites and likewise places. is still an excellent choice for beginners, touch or scratch start welder users.
It possesses a 25 feet-long-range cable, which is somewhat a maximum range for a TIG torch, and in combination with a decent flex head and gas valve, will serve most users. These characteristics will allow efficiency in working at various angles and valve control of gas.
This is the best TIG torch price-wise and range-wise for larger weld projects and when users need to use it in a garage due to its low amperage requirement. But be careful that your needs don’t exceed its maximum ratings while working. Although you can use it in these conditions, the air-cooled torch is not meant to handle higher power and heat.
Also, when we are talking about cons, the flex head joint is a gable. Many users complained that it brakes or loosens after the uses right after shipping in, and on the other side, many don’t report any problems after 6 months up to a year of constant use. So, as I said, it could be a gamble when it comes to the quality of this part, but I guess it all comes down to low prices and what you pay is what you get.
Something added to the entire package are TIG gloves, a power cable adapter, and a cable cover. They are not really high-quality cables, but they are useful nonetheless.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Budget air-cooled torch.
- Comfortable grip and fits hand.
- With this torch, TIG welding is easy.
- Some decent material collet body, gas valve control.
- Great for hobby and home shop weld needs, and most welding project progress.
- One free gift included (either pair of welding gloves, welding glasses or welding goggles).
Cons
- A bit low-quality accessories and parts.
- Flex head problems in some cases.
Specifications
- Cooling type: TIG torch air-cooled process.
- Power rating: 150 amps.
- Head design: Flexible gas-valve control type torch.
- Hose: Rubber flexible hose with nylon cable cover.
- Design: Great quality, comfortable in hand but bit larger body torch.
- Fittings: WeldCraft brass connection adapter part.
- Hose length: 25 ft. hose.
Note:
Check your TIG welder for matching.
4. Eastwood WP26F Flex Head Tig Welder Torch
If you are looking for a suitable, comfortable, and powerful TIG torch for your auto-body business, Eastwood WP-26F is an excellent choice. This is an affordable yet quite capable air-cooled tig welding torch rated at 200 amps.
The good side is a 100% duty cycle at 200 amps and a 60% duty cycle at the full 250 amps, which is surprising for an air-cooled torch.
As with other quality TIG torches, the connectors are good enough, and the WP-26F will work great with Eastwood TIG machines and also Elite MP250i multi-process welder.
I liked the flexible neck, so you can fit the perfect position for the job at hand. The torch is quite comfortable but bulky due to its high rating, so it is not ideal for cramped spaces. Eastwood WP-26F has 12 ft long cables, so you are not strictly tied to your welder.
However, some welders had issues with the rubber hose. Therefore, you should strictly use it within the recommended rating of 200-250 amps, as it could fail fast enough due to overheating.
The good side is that it is a standardized WP26-size torch, meaning you can use any WP17 consumables. There is a #5 nozzle installed and a 3/32 Inch collet and collet body installed, and you can buy replacements from the official Eastwood website or in a local shop.
While I would usually recommend a smaller TIG torch cooled by air, Eastwood WP-26F is great for big jobs when there is a lot of continuous welding.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Decent quality torch for autobody welding
- Comfortable and easy to use
- Aimed for medium-duty projects and continuous welding
- 12-foot-long lead, great parts, and insulation
- Compatible with regular WP17 size consumables
Cons
- Rubber can get damaged if not used within rated amperage
- Can struggle in cramped spaces due to size
Specifications
- Cooling method: Air cooling system
- Power rating: 200 A @ 100%, 250 A @ 60% duty cycle
- Head design: Flexible head
- Handle: Ergonomic and comfortable
- Consumables: Fits standard WP17 consumables
- Installed: #5 nozzle and a 3/32 Inch collet and collet body
- Lead length: 12 ft. hose
5. Eastwood WP18-20 Water Cooled TIG torch
While the Eastwood WP17 air-cooled torch is suitable for low to medium-duty applications, their WP18 and WP20 water system torches are aimed at somewhat more demanding welders. These two torches are rated at 200-350 amps, so you can use them for thicker plates.
However, a higher rating means a bigger torch, so it is somewhat bulkier than Eastwood WP17 with an air system. Nonetheless, WP18 and WP20 torches are also comfortable, and they don’t cause hand fatigue. For versatility, there is a hand-remote start switch and a gas valve on the top of the torch head.
As a result, you get excellent control over the entire welding process, including the supplied shielding and amperage. Compatability-wise, Eastwood WP18, and WP20 torches can be paired with any welder with a 10-25 dinse connection and M16X 1.5 TIG torch connection. That includes the entire Eastwood TIG welder lineup (AC/DC TIG, Digital TIG, and DC TIG) but also other welders with these connections.
Eastwood TIG torches have standard 12.5′ long leads, and they can fit common WP18 or WP20 size consumables, including #5 gas lens, 3/32″ collet, collet body, and back cap, which is installed, or #6 gas Lens or #7 gas lens.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Suitable for more demanding welders and applications
- Comfortable and easy to use
- Aimed for medium-duty projects
- 12.5-foot-long leads
- Remote amperage control and gas valve
- Compatible with 10-25 dinse connection and M16X 1.5 TIG torch connection
Cons
- Somewhat bulkier and heavier
Specifications
- Cooling method: Water cooling
- Power rating: 200-350 A
- Head design: flexible head
- Handle: Ergonomic and comfortable
- Connections: 10-25 dinse connection and M16X 1.5 TIG torch connection
- Lead length: 12.5 ft. hose
6. Lincoln Electric PTA9 TIG torch (12.5 ft) K1782-16
Lincoln Electric is known for its high-end welding machines, and its accessories are no exception. Lincoln Electric PTA-9 is a premium quality air-cooled torch from the Pro-Torch series. We highlighted the PTA-9 torch for its size, which makes it super lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use for occasional TIG welders, fabrication shops, or production welders.
PTA-9 torch is rated at 125 amps at 60% duty cycle, which makes it suitable for light-duty applications. So if you feel like you need a higher-rated TIG torch, the PT series got you covered, as it offers torches in a wide range of sizes and amperage ratings to fit any application.
Keep in mind that this is the pricier torch on our list, especially size 9. However, when investing in a brand-name torch, you get a high-quality build and reliability, as well as a 1-year warranty. I absolutely loved knurled handle that offers excellent control over the torch. Even though the torch cable has no cover, there is molded lip/ridge on the torch, which allows you to add one.
Due to the somewhat higher price, we highlighted the most basic model of the Lincoln PTA-9 torch. However, that means that the torch head is fixed, and there is no manual gas valve or remote amp control.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- High-end, professional torch
- High-quality build
- Aimed for light-duty projects
- Knurled handle prevents slipping
- Molded ridge allows easy installation of a cover
- Wide PT Lincoln torch series
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Basic model with a fixed head, no valve or remote control
- Pricier than some 9 size torches
Specifications
- Cooling method: Air cooling
- Power rating: 125 A
- Rated Duty Cycle: 60% at 125 amps
- Head design: Rigid Head
- Handle: Knurled handle for increased comfort
- Connections: Industry standard hose and torch connectors
- Warranty: 1 year
- Lead length: 12.5 ft. hose
7. Lincoln Electric PTW-20 TIG torch (25 ft) K1784-4
Like with other brands, we present you another torch from Lincoln, the PTW-20. This is yet another reliable and high-quality torch, but now with water cooling.
Water cooling allows it to operate at 250 amps with a 100% duty cycle, meaning it’s a real workhorse for medium to heavy-duty applications.
Due to the 100% duty cycle, you don’t have to stop for occasional cooling. In addition, you can use it for applications higher than 250 amps but with a need for occasional cooling.
Overall, I liked the high-quality build from the Lincoln Pro Torch series. As a result, the torch is durable and built to last. Knurled handle prevents slipping, but due to the cooling, PT-20 torch is expectingly bulkier than the PTA-9 torch.
Like with PTA-9, you will have to spend quite a few bucks with PTW-20, making it a pricier option than Eastwood WP20 or YesWelder WP20 torch. Nonetheless, the high investment is justified by durability and a 1-year warranty.
The PTW-20 torch has an industry-standard hose and cable fittings, meaning you can use it with any TIG machine. However, I’ve noticed in the past that Lincoln consumables and accessories work the best with Lincoln welders. In addition, I dislike the fact you have to pay extra for cable cover, which adds the cost to an already expensive product.
Pros & Cons Summarized
Pros
- Professional torch for medium to high-duty applications
- High-end build
- 100% duty cycle at 250 amps
- Knurled handle for increased comfort
- 25 ft long leads
- 1-year warranty
- Durable torch built to last
Cons
- High prices with added costs of cover
- Basic model
Specifications
- Cooling method: Water cooling
- Power rating: 250 A
- Rated Duty Cycle: 100% at 125 amps
- Head design: Rigid Head
- Handle: Knurled handle
- Connections: Industry standard hose and torch connectors
- Warranty: 1 year
- Lead length: 25 ft. hose
TIG Torch Buying Guide
When on the lookout for good TIG welding torches, one of the best pieces of advice is that you should not only look at the price range. Even if you are on a budget, there are a few elements and tips that you should consider. TIG Torches selection, consumables, and accessories (cap, collet bodies, chuck, electrode) setup, care, safety gear, protection gear, and maintenance are something you should have in mind.
In order to achieve comfort and welding performance, every piece of equipment is important. (1) (2)
The Power Ratings for Light-Duty TIG Torches
Every torch and lead uses a predetermined welding amperage range with maximum amperage allowed.
For instance the amperage rating you plan to weld with will determine the type of torch you need. Of course, this mainly depends on the intensity of the application and jobs you are doing.
A hobbyist does not need more than 200 amp (200 amps) for light-duty applications. 200 amp ability is ideal for weld projects in your garage and thin metals. But for more heavy-duty weld needs, requiring thicker metals, you will need a torch that is rated at least at 200 amps. This will allow you to finish all types of welding projects or welding tasks with ease.
Cooling Options (Water Cooled or Air Cooled Torches)
There are two types of torch cooling that torches usually come with – air-cooled and water-cooled torches.
Air-cooled torches are lightweight and easy to use. Through torch, air flows through plastic tubing.
Most of them have larger bodies and tend to overheat due to the high amp rating. This makes them unsuitable for high-amp applications use where heat can cause damage. They also cost less to buy for a given reason.
Water-cooled torches are best used for continuous production as they can withstand a high-amperage rating use, heat, and needs to weld longer periods.
They can be compact (small bodies) and easy, and they handle high temperatures as well. They are also usually rated over 200A. However, thanks to the opportunities of the whole water cooler system some coolant leaks, tubes, and pump failure issues can happen. They cost more for a reason compared to the air-cooled ones, and you need a water outlet use.
The Way That You Start The Welding Arc (Lift Start, Scratch Start Or High Frequency)
There are several arc start touch welding techniques to consider here. High-frequency (HF) non-touch start ones are meant for weld machines that control the gas flow based on your settings.
The torch comes with a button that affects the control of gas flow. It comes either at a flat or sloped rate and it is best used to weld aluminum.
Scratch staring capability includes scratching the metal with tungsten electrodes so a weld arc can be initiated. It is similar to starting a stick welding arc but is the least used technique as it doesn’t have a consistent start rate.
Lift arc starting capability includes touching the metal and the weld arc will initiate as you move it away from the metal. For example, this is a very easy arc start, but the downside is contamination due to the tungsten electrodes touching the metal. These starts depend on your welding method and needs.
More on this you can find in this article.
Head Style (Fixed torch heads, Flex head or Flex Lock heads)
There are different kinds of torch heads, designs and styles, each with its own characteristics.
A flex head torch is probably the most desirable one as it allows the most flexibility. Flex heads adjustment fits a variety of angles and get to different types of positions and spots in most welding process results in better comfort.
A fixed torch head is set at one angle, it does not give you the freedom to adjust in any other way.
There are far difficult to use due to their fixed angle and it is a lot harder to get into most of difficult places and area spot when using them.
Advantages of flex-lock heads are that they can spin at a 360-degree angle direction and can be locked in the most desired position. It offers the most amount of adjustment and results with stability as you can lock your TIG torch in the position you are most comfortable working in.
Leads Length
Hose (leads) and cable lengths and designs mostly depend on your personal preference and distances. Depending on what type of weld projects you are doing longer hose may be needed. If you need to move about a lot and don’t want to carry your welding machine with you all the time, longer leads are better. But if your welding process concentrates on a bench, nothing to worry about, shorter leads are okay as well.
What do the Numbers and Letters Mean
You probably already noticed while reading that every TIG torch has a variety of model numbers, these are the reasons. Generally speaking, the smaller numbers described a smaller torch with lesser amperage. A higher number will mean the opposite results.
As far as the letters go, reading the V means that a TIG torch body possesses a weld gas valve control. Gas valve control is important if you plan to set a scratch or lift start weld applications on your machines for your shielding gas.
The letter F is for the flex-head option, important for being able to adjust the torch at different angles. To achieve the best performance and comfort, explore the best option cuts and pieces of equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions [F.A.Q]
What is the difference between air-cooled and water-cooled TIG torches?
A: Water-cooled torches allow you to weld without stopping as opposed to air-cooled ones. An air-cooled TIG torch will require you to make a few weld stops for it to cool down.
Are 150A torches better than 250A ones?
A: 150 amps are aimed at light-duty application. On the other hand, 250 amps are more suitable for heavy-duty weld project applications. The main difference is what you plan to work on and whether you require a higher amp rating use.
Is the size of the TIG torch important?
A: It is important if you are planning to work in tighter areas. If your weld projects require you to work in a cramped area, a smaller and less-robust TIG torch will be much more appropriate. A bigger one will only get in your way.
Are expensive torches better than cheaper ones?
A: Bigger brands make more quality torches, but that doesn’t mean that less expensive ones don’t get the job that. If you want to see some quality, different price range TIG torches anyone can use, check out the guide above.
Conclusion
Choosing the correct TIG torch for your work will require a lot of thinking. But it doesn’t have to be if you only take into account all the things mentioned in the guide above. You also don’t have to spend big on eBay. There are far less-expensive torches that will help get the job done. Consider some of our choices mentioned above and we promise you that you will not regret your decision in the end. A combination of practice and good equipment makes your welding applications perfect. If you want to check the reviews for TIG welding machines you can check this article.
