Best Plasma Cutters to Be a Cut Above
If you’re looking to take your metalworking projects to the next level, there’s no better way than with a high-quality plasma cutter.
Far more precise and powerful than traditional cutting methods, investing in a plasma cutter can open up possibilities for professional-level fabrication without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or working in the welding industry, finding the best plasma cutter for your specific needs is crucial to completing successful projects that you’ll be proud of.
To help you get started, we’ve put together this guide on the best available solutions for your budget and requirements.
Read on to discover what features make a top-quality plasma cutter so extraordinary!
How We Choose the Best Plasma Cutters
Trying to find the best plasma cutter can be overwhelming.
With all of the different brands and specs, how do you know which one is right for you?
Do you go for the cheapest one?
The most expensive one?
The one with the most features?
We’ve done the research for you.
After reading through thousands of reviews on Amazon and comparing specs between the top brands, we’ve selected the 5 best plasma cutters for various situations.
Overall Winner – Best Plasma Cutter for the Money
PRIMEWELD CUT60 60Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc PT60 Torch Plasma Cutter
Key Features
- PT60 blowback cutting torch
- 60% duty cycle at 60 amps
- Dual voltage – 110V/220V
Why It’s a Great Choice
The PRIMEWELD CUT60 Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter is the perfect cutting tool for both professionals and DIYers!
This high-performance, user-friendly machine is built to last and allows you to take on any metal-cutting job with ease.
No special skills or experience are needed to operate it – just turn it on and get to work!
The CUT60 cuts expanded, rusted, or painted metals using its Continuous Pilot Arc technology for fast turnaround times and solid results.
It’s also highly portable so you can move around easily from the job site to the home workshop.
Complete with a PT60 blowback cutting torch, complete with Euro Central Connection for precise control over your projects, you’ll be surprised by the quality of your cuts when you use the PRIMEWELD CUT60 Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter!
Try it today and see why it’s considered an ideal cutting device.
Best Professional Plasma Cutter
Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP Hand Plasma System (088079)
Key Features
- Auto-voltage adjustment from 110V to 240V
- 50 Amp output
- High-power cutting up to 5/8″
Why It’s a Great Choice
The Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP Hand Plasma System is the plasma cutter best suited to meet all of your cutting needs.
With its highly portable design, you can take it anywhere your projects demand.
The powerful 30-amp system is designed for use with air pressure or nitrogen and can cut through electrically conductive metals such as mild steel, stainless steel, or aluminum.
The two-in-one design gives you the capability for higher power for thick metal cutting, as well as the FineCut consumables for precise and detailed thin metal cuts.
Plus, the Duramax LT Torch can withstand shock and heat with ease making your job faster and easier.
Equipped with a straightforward one-knob interface, you are sure to get superior cut quality with less edge preparation time needed.
Additionally, both ends come with strain reliefs that handle challenging environments with ease.
Get your hands on this intuitive cutting system today and reap all of the advantages!
Best High-Frequency Plasma Cutter
LOTOS LT5000D 50A Air Inverter Plasma Cutter
Key Features
- Dual voltage – 110V/220V
- 10-50 Amp DC output
- 60% duty cycle at 50 amps
- 1/2-inch clean cut, 3/4-inch max severance cut
Why It’s a Great Choice
The LOTOS LT5000D 50A Air Inverter Plasma Cutter is an exceptional choice for those who are looking for a reliable, rugged, and versatile cutting machine.
Whether you’re an experienced professional or a DIY enthusiast tackling your latest project at home, this plasma cutter is suitable for all kinds of applications.
Constructed to withstand extensive use in industrial and construction environments, the LT5000D ensures that you’ll get clean, efficient cuts every time.
And since it uses digital inverter technology rather than traditional oxyacetylene torches, it’s much more cost-effective.
Plus, the plasma cutting torch trigger can be moved to provide a custom fit – regardless of whether you prefer a finger or thumb position.
And with its low profile torch head – tight spaces are no longer out of bounds.
Plus, the High-Frequency DC Plasma technology makes fast work of thicker materials without distortion in the workpiece.
Don’t hesitate any longer – get yourself some quality cutting done with the Lotos LT5000D!
Best Plasma Cutter on a Budget
VEVOR Plasma Cutter, 50Amp, Air Cutting Machine with Plasma Torch
Key Features
- Dual voltage – 110V/220V
- 25-50 Amp DC output
- 30% duty cycle at 50 amps, 60% at 33 amps, 100% at 25 amps
- 1/2-inch clean cut, 5/8-inch max severance cut
Why It’s a Great Choice
Don’t call the VEVOR a cheap plasma cutter, as you’ll be hard-pressed to find something that it can’t do.
Delivering 50Amp of power and its optimized IGBT transistor technology, this air-cutting machine is an excellent choice for home DIY jobs and light-duty small business projects.
It’s the perfect tool for cutting aluminum, stainless steel, mild steel, copper, and other metals with non-hazardous compressed air without compromising performance thanks to its gastight air filter regulator that can quickly adjust the pressure to reach effective cutting results.
What sets this affordable plasma cutter apart from the rest is its impressive working area.
The extra-long 16.4′ plasma torch and 6.56′ ground clamp with cable offer maximum convenience by extending your working space, making it easier than ever to cut through rough, painted, and rusty surfaces while producing minimal slag without any air leakage—all from one machine!
If you need a superior product that won’t let you down no matter what surface or material you put it up against, then don’t hesitate!
Get your hands on the VEVOR Plasma Cutter today!
Best Plasma Cutter for Lightweight Portability
Forney Easy Weld 251 20 P Plasma Cutter
Key Features
- 120V power source and 1.5 CFM compressed air to operate
- 20 Amp output
- 35% duty cycle at 20 amps
- Cuts up to 1/4-inch mild steel
Why It’s a Great Choice
The Forney Easy Weld Portable Plasma Cutter is versatile and powerful.
This compact and lightweight machine weighs only 21.5 lbs, making it easier to transport on the job site or around your home workshop.
What’s more, its generator-friendly design makes this unit a great addition for any contractor.
Simply plug into a standard 120V outlet and start cutting – no special setup is required.
This light plasma cutter is small but mighty!
It cuts mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, galvanized steel, brass, copper up to 1/4” thick, and aluminum up to 3/16” thick – all with impressive accuracy thanks to its Drag Torch Technology feature.
Plus, the built-in air regulator and air dryer help make set-up a breeze – just add 120V power and 1.5 CFM of compressed air for operation!
If you’re looking for a reliable yet powerful plasma cutter that can keep up with any of your projects, then look no further than this Forney Plasma Cutter.
With its portability and range of accurate cutting capabilities – along with unbeatable value – this plasma cutter has all the features you need for optimal performance at an exceptional price point.
Upgrade your workspace today with the Forney Plasma Cutter!
Best Multipurpose Metal Machine
PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder, and 200 Amp Stick Welder
Key Features
- Dual voltage – 110V/220V
- 50 Amp output for plasma cutting, 200 Amp for TIG/Stick welding
- 85% power efficiency
- Cuts up to 1/2-inch
Why It’s a Great Choice
Introducing the PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50A Plasma Cutter, 200A TIG Welder, and 200A Stick Welder – the perfect tool for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient solution to their metalworking needs.
This high-performing machine is capable of cutting many metals up to 1/2″ thick with the 50amp plasma cutter allowing for fast, clean cuts on cast iron, mild steel, copper, and more.
The 200amp TIG torch can weld magnesium and stainless steel with precision and accuracy while the 200amp stick welder is perfect for minor welding repairs.
What sets this welder apart though is its power efficiency.
With an input power frequency of 50Hz/60Hz, this machine consumes less energy while running, lowering operational costs in the process.
Plus it features a duty cycle of 60%, achieving maximum amps on all processes.
It also transitions easily from DC TIG to DC stick welding.
And since the plasma cutter doesn’t use flammable constituents you don’t have to worry about exposure to risks either.
So if you need a reliable and efficient solution for your metalworking projects look no further than the PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder, & 200 Amp Stick Welder!
Get yours today and enjoy unbeatable performance at an unbelievable price!
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Plasma Cutter
Plasma cutters are a critical tool for many businesses, but there is a lot of confusion about what to look for when purchasing one.
It’s no wonder there is so much confusion about plasma cutters.
With all the different brands, models, and features on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.
We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about plasma cutters.
By understanding the basics, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which cutter is right for your home or business.
What is a plasma cutter?
A plasma cutter is a versatile and highly precise tool used to cut through metal, plastic, and other materials. It does this by using a gas such as air or nitrogen mixed with electricity to create an arc between the material being cut and the cutter itself. This arc then produces a high-density stream of hot ionized particles that can easily cut through any material. Plasma cutters are widely used in many different types of industries such as manufacturing, automotive repair, welding, aircraft construction and maintenance, fabrication, DIY projects, arts and crafts, and much more.
Plasma cutting is a preferred method for precise cuts due to its accuracy and cleanliness compared to traditional cutting tools like saws and torches. With a plasma cutter, you can precisely control the depth of the cut as well as the width depending on what material is being used. This makes it great for detailed design jobs that require intricate shapes that may be impossible with other tools.
Plasma cutters have been around since the 1950s but have gone through several improvements over time. The majority of plasma cutter models are powered by AC or DC power sources which determine how quickly they can produce an arc. They also come in various sizes from very small handheld models up to large industrial-sized machines capable of cutting thick metal plates in little time at all.
In addition to standard cutting applications, many modern plasma cutter models feature additional accessories such as CNC tables for automated cutting operations that further increase the level of precision achievable with them. Safety considerations should also be taken into account when using any kind of cutting tool; operators must always wear protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves when operating these devices since their intense heat can cause burns or start fires if not handled correctly.
How does a plasma cutter work?
A plasma cutter is a tool used to cut through metal, plastic, and other materials. It works by using a gas such as air or nitrogen mixed with electricity to create an arc between the material being cut and the cutter itself. This arc then produces a high-density stream of hot ionized particles that can easily cut through any material. The plasma cutter’s power source—either AC or DC—determines how quickly it can produce an arc and also determines its size.
The plasma cutter works by energizing the gas mixture in an enclosed chamber which converts it into a plasma state. This process generates intense heat which causes the material being cut to melt away quickly as well as creating an efficient and clean edge to whatever is being cut.
Most modern plasma cutters come with adjustable settings so they can be tailored to suit any type of cutting application. For instance, the current setting can be adjusted to generate more powerful cuts for thicker materials or lower settings can be used for thinner materials that don’t require as much heat for cutting. Additionally, some models have additional accessories such as CNC tables for automated cutting operations that further increase the level of control and precision achievable with them.
How do you use a plasma cutter?
Using a plasma cutter is a straightforward process but there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind before getting started.
First, make sure the material you’re cutting is properly secured and securely clamped so that it doesn’t move during the cut. Also, wear protective equipment such as safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from sparks flying off of the material being cut.
Next, connect your plasma cutter to its power source and then to an air compressor if one is needed based on your machine’s requirements. Once everything is connected properly, turn on the power source which will cause the torch at the end of the plasma cutter to ionize or electrify the air around it. This will create an arc that produces a high-density stream of hot plasma that can easily cut through metal, plastic, or other materials.
Most modern high-quality plasma cutters come with adjustable settings so that they can be tailored for specific materials or applications; use these settings to achieve optimal cutting results for whatever material you are working with at any given time. Additionally, you may need to adjust tip pressure depending on how thick or thin the material is as well as its shape and size. Doing this will help ensure clean and accurate cuts without damaging or deforming the material.
Once satisfied with all settings, press down on the trigger gently until it clicks while moving along to cut through whatever material you are working with; avoid pressing down too hard as this could damage both the torch tip and what you’re attempting to cut. When done using your plasma cutter always remember to disconnect it from its power source before storing it away safely for future use!
Can you cut aluminum with a plasma cutter?
Yes, you can cut aluminum with a plasma cutter. Plasma cutters are highly versatile and precise tools that can be used to cut through different materials including aluminum. When cutting aluminum with a plasma cutter, it is important to set the machine to an appropriate current setting; otherwise, the cut could be too hot and cause damage or deformation of the material.
If you are using a CNC plasma cutting machine, then it should have settings specifically tailored for aluminum that can be adjusted depending on the thickness of the material being cut. If you don’t have access to such a machine, then it is best to refer to your user manual for proper adjustments.
In addition to setting the correct current levels, a clean and steady arc will ensure clean and accurate cuts when working with aluminum. It is also important to wear proper safety gear when working with any type of cutting tool as their intense heat can cause burns or start fires if not handled correctly.
When used properly, a plasma cutter can provide fast and precise cuts in aluminum as well as other electrically conductive metals making them ideal tools for many different types of applications ranging from manufacturing to arts and crafts projects.
What safety precautions should be taken when using a Plasma Cutter?
When using a plasma cutter, it is important to take certain safety precautions to protect yourself and your working environment.
First, always wear appropriate protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from the sparks that can fly off of the material being cut. In addition, make sure there is adequate ventilation in the room you are working in since the intense heat generated by a plasma cutter can create dangerous fumes.
Second, make sure you are familiar with your machine’s specific requirements and settings before getting started so that they can be adjusted accordingly when cutting different materials or thicknesses. Doing this will help ensure clean and accurate cuts without damaging or deforming the material in any way.
Third, check for corrosion or dirt build-up on the torch tip prior to use as this could cause uneven current distribution resulting in an inaccurate cut or even more serious damage to both what you’re cutting and the equipment itself.
Finally, always remember to disconnect your plasma cutter from its power source before storing it away safely for future use! Taking all of these steps should ensure that you remain safe while using a plasma cutter!
What kind of power sources can I use for my Plasma Cutter?
There are a few different power sources you can use for your plasma cutter.
The first is an electricity source, which can be either 110v or 220v depending on your machine’s requirements. This type of power source is ideal if you want to be able to move and use your plasma cutter in multiple places since it eliminates the need for a separate air compressor.
Another option is an air compressor, which is often necessary depending on the size and type of material being cut. Air compressors provide the required pressure needed to create a consistent and reliable arc while cutting through thick objects; however, this does limit mobility somewhat since it requires access to a stationary power source nearby.
Finally, there are some specialty plasma cutters available that run off of fuel sources such as propane or gas instead of electricity or air compressor systems. These types of cutters are useful in certain cases where traditional cutting methods are not feasible due to extreme temperatures or lack of access to power sources; however, they do require more specialized knowledge and skill than other types so it is important to be properly trained before using this kind of equipment.
Are there special requirements for setting up a Plasma Cutter workspace?
Yes, there are special requirements to consider when setting up a workspace for using a plasma cutter.
First and foremost, make sure that the area is well-ventilated since the intense heat produced by the machine produces dangerous fumes. It’s also important to ensure that your workspace is clear of any combustible materials that could potentially catch fire from sparks or heated material.
Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you have ample lighting available so that you can see what you’re doing when cutting any type of material. A sturdy and level surface is also necessary to ensure accurate cuts as much as possible; however, if the surface is not ideal, make sure to adjust your machine settings accordingly for the best results.
Finally, it’s important to remember the need for appropriate personal protective equipment such as safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from sparks and other temperature-related hazards. Taking all of these steps should help ensure a safe and efficient workspace for using your plasma cutter!
Does the quality of the cut depend on the speed at which I use the cutter?
Yes, the quality of a cut made using a plasma cutter does depend in part on the speed at which it is used.
Using too slow of a speed can create an uneven surface in the material being cut, while too fast of a speed may cause sparks and burning along the edges. Additionally, not taking enough time to adequately cut through thicker materials can cause potential issues with completing the job or weakening the structure of what you’re cutting.
The ideal speed for any given job will depend on many factors such as the material’s thickness, type, and size; however, most professionals agree that a slow-and-steady approach is best when it comes to achieving clean and even cuts with a plasma cutter. It won’t happen overnight but taking your time should help ensure the best results!
Is there a risk of fire when using a plasma cutter?
Yes, there is a risk of fire when using a plasma cutter. As the intense heat produced by the machine can easily cause combustible materials to catch fire, it’s important to take certain safety precautions before attempting to use the tool.
Have a certified fire extinguisher nearby and be sure to clear your work area of any material that could potentially explode or burn if exposed to sparks or intense heat. Additionally, make sure your space is well-ventilated since smoke and fumes are generated during operation.
Finally, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as goggles or safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from sparks and other temperature-related hazards. Taking all these steps should help you minimize the potential of a fire occurring in your workspace when using a plasma cutter!
What type of consumables do I need to use with my plasma cutter?
When using a plasma cutter, it’s important to use the right type of consumables for your machine. The most common types of consumables used with a plasma cutter include electrodes, nozzles, shield caps, and swirl rings.
The electrodes are responsible for supplying the initial energy needed to strike an arc and should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal performance from your machine. Nozzles help to direct the flow of the plasma and should also be replaced often. Shield caps help protect against overheating while the swirl rings provide additional stabilization when cutting.
It’s also important to make sure you are using consumables that are compatible with your specific plasma cutter model to ensure safe and efficient operation. Taking all these steps will help you get the best results possible out of your machine!
Choosing the Best Plasma Cutter for You
With plasma cutters becoming an essential tool for metal fabrication, choosing the right one is an important decision.
We have done the research, and in this post, have provided six plasma cutter reviews to cover a wide range of jobs.
Whether you are looking for a combination machine, a plasma cutter that can easily fit into tight spaces, or something on the more powerful end of the spectrum—there’s a tool on this list that will meet your needs and provide excellent value.
With low-cost entry points up to a few hundred dollars as well as more capable options with professional-grade features available at reasonable prices– these are five great options no matter what your job requires.
So why wait–check out our picks and click on the links to check each one’s prices on Amazon and order yours now.
