Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT
#4 in AC/DC TIGFull review
A 250 A AC/DC machine for a small fabrication shop that welds thick aluminum all day. Overkill for occasional home use.
Amazon $1,875$1,875
The Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT is the better TIG or stick welder overall, rated 4.1 to 4.0. The Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT leads on warranty and features. The Lotos TIG200ACDC wins on value. The Lotos TIG200ACDC costs $1,486.20 less ($388.80 vs $1,875).
Lotos TIG200ACDC
#6 in AC/DC TIGFull review
A cheap, complete starter kit for someone learning aluminum TIG. Expect to work in short runs.
Amazon $388.80$388.80
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT for warranty (5-year warranty on the machine vs 3-year warranty on the machine) and features (high-frequency start, pulse, foot pedal in the box, dual voltage vs high-frequency start, foot pedal in the box, dual voltage).
- Choose the Lotos TIG200ACDC for value ($1.94 per amp ($388.80, 200 A maximum) vs $7.50 per amp ($1,875, 250 A maximum)).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every AC/DC TIG TIG or stick welder; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT | Lotos TIG200ACDC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.1/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 18 $7.50 per amp ($1,875, 250 A maximum) | 100 $1.94 per amp ($388.80, 200 A maximum) |
| Duty cycle 20% | 100 60% at full output (250 A) | 50 duty cycle not published (neutral score used) |
| Features 25% | 100 high-frequency start, pulse, foot pedal in the box, dual voltage | 75 high-frequency start, foot pedal in the box, dual voltage |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty on the machine | 50 3-year warranty on the machine |
Specifications
| Everlast PowerTIG 255EXT | Lotos TIG200ACDC | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Processes | AC/DC TIG, stick | AC/DC TIG, stick |
| Maximum output | 250 A | 200 A |
| Maximum on 120 V | 150 A | - |
| Duty cycle | 60% at 250 A | - |
| Duty cycle ambient | 40 °C | - |
| Input | 120 V and 240 V | 120 V and 240 V |
| Features | ||
| Pulse | Yes | - |
| Foot pedal in the box | Yes | Yes |
| TIG torch in the box | Yes | Yes |
| Voltage reduction device | Yes | - |
| Weight | 67 lb | - |
| Warranty | 5 years | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2017-11-25 |