10 Best Plasma Cutters 2023 – Reviews and Buying Guide
Hey, are you having a project where they need to make clean, smooth, and quick metal cuts? If you own a plasma cutter, it saves you from noisy grinding, rough cutting, a soiled workplace, and imperfect shaping.
Plasma cutting consistently altered and expending from the 1960s of huge monstrosity to sleek, compact, portable, and methodical. The range is expanding in magnitude and the same in price.
The plasma cutter is equipped with an ionized gas gun that heats to melt the metal and blows away to make a clean cut. This can cut metals like iron, mild steel, brass, stainless steel, copper, and aluminum and prove itself as a production booster tool.
There is a sizable collection of portable, safer, flexible plasma cutters available with the sellers. It seems a challenge to buy one if you do not have a deep knowledge of the plasma process.
We are trying to make an absolute guide for the purchase of the best plasma cutter. We have chosen ten plasma cutters reviews that shall help you make an informed decision to shop for a suitable machine.
Advantages of the Plasma Cutter
➥ One of the quickest ways to cut the material which is electrically conductive.
➥ No need for preheating just set the torch and start cutting instantaneously.
➥ A useful addition to your shop floor as torches are precise and versatile.
➥ One can perform cuts at complicated angles and shapes effortlessly.
➥ The quality of the cut is clean, precise, and beautiful.
➥ The equipment closely integrates the torch with its software for the laser-like cut.
➥ A plasma cutter is incredibly easy to use, even for a novice fabricator.
➥ Higher versions of plasma cutting machines are equally safe as they are fitted with exhaust to redirect the smoke away from the user.
Shortcomings of the Plasma Cutter
1. When you need the unit for occasional metal cutting then this machine is not a choice as it is a specialized machine for your project. It is not worth a purchase if your cutting is not a regular feature.
2. It is more expensive than a grinder and hacksaw blade as an initial investment. In a longer period of time, it may not be expensive as its consumables are affordable and long-lasting.
3. Cutting through metal creates a warmth zone at the edges and may lead to the hardening of edges.
4. The dross formation is the next shortcoming as the molten metal re-solidifies at the perimeter of the cut. This dross needs manual cleaning to offer a spotless and neat cut.
Best Plasma Cutters – Reviews & Comparisons
1. Cruxweld CWP-CUT100i Plasma Cutter
Specifications
| Input voltage AC 415±15% |
| Phase 3 Frequency 50/60 Hz |
| Cutting the current 60% duty cycle |
| Efficiency is 85% |
| Insulation H class |
| Air pressure Required 60-75 psi |
| Cutting capacity fine 24mm |
| Severance cutting capacity 40mm |
| Cooling forced air |
| Dimensions LxWxH 550x280x545 mm |
| Weight 36kg |
The heavy-duty IGBT-based plasma cutter can cut precisely from 24 to 40 mm. The pilot arc helps to make cuts in painted and rusted surfaces.
The strong, versatile torch can cut virtually any metal. The torch is easy to install and replace the consumables. The cutting controls by arc parameter electronic control help to offer distortion-free, burr-free, narrow kerf width, and clean cut. The post flow helps to make the cutting convenient and safe.
The equipment is sound and offers heavy cutting with precision in industries. It has a metal chassis of industrial quality. The Air filter cum regulator ensures the compressed air for fine cutting. The separate switch for checking the air pressure is an additional feature of the unit.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Best quality and strength
◾ Metal chassis
◾ A pilot arc help
◾ Post-flow cooling
◾ Simple unit to install and operate
◾ Versatile torches
◾ Drag cutting makes it easy
◾ Easy assembly of the torch
◾ Equipped with sensor auto air pressure setting
◾ Fine sheet cutting
◾ Best quality machine and cutting
◾ Major industrial applications
Cruxweld’s Welding and Cutting Tractor
The increased demand and rising labor cost demand verifiable and consistent quality carriage. This tractor is the first step towards automation. The tractor improves the quality of cutting with a saving of production time. There is a saving of money in a measurable manner by UNITRAC 1200 even.
Specifications
◾ Power supply 115-230, 50/60Hz
◾ Straight cutting 3.6 meters and multiple
◾ Circular cutting 50-2000 mm diameter
◾ Bevel 0-45 degrees
◾ Speed 60-1800 mm/min
◾ Drive direction Forward/Stop/Backward
◾ Four-wheel with planetary box
◾ Ground clearance 5 mm
◾ Horizontal pulling force 220N
◾ Rail length size of 3.6 meters
◾ Torch diameter 16-35 mm
◾ Weight 16.5 kg
◾ Dimensions (L x W x H) 427×189 x180 mm
2. Hypertherm Powermax 45
Specifications
◾ Compact and lightweight
◾ Weight: 37 Pounds
◾ Dimensions: 16.7″ x 6.7″ x 13.7″
◾ Input Power Supply: 240/480V 50/60Hz
◾ Output 10-45 Amps
◾ Duty Cycle: 50%
◾ Torch length: 15 feet
The perfect performer is its name and it can cut through 1/2″ steel at 20 inches/minute. The precise machine makes a neat and clean metal cut with not any cooldown period. The complete control over the torch makes the cutting possible in the restricted area.
We may take the model for a long time money saver because the consumables are more economical. The torch is versatile and ideal for projects for an entire range of applications. The torches are three primary modes: continuous pilot arc, noncontinuous pilot arc, and gouging punching holes. This is having a smart sensor system for compressed air supply and settings.
The downside of this model is the lack of a CNC port to configure with a computer.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Simple to install and operate
◾ Drag cutting making easy cutting
◾ Fast torch connection
◾ Smart sensor auto air pressure setting
◾ Versatile and wide range of torches
◾ Changing part in torch by a disable switch
◾ Fine sheet cutting
◾ High quality and strong
◾ All major industrial applications
3. Miller Spectrum 625 X-TREME
Specifications
◾ Input voltage 110/120 and 220/240
◾ Output 15-40 amperes
◾ Weight 21 pounds
◾ Cutting technology drag
◾ Automatic air regulation
◾ Duty cycle 60% at 27 Amp
◾ Air plasma cutting and gouging
◾ Dimensions 25” x 9″ x 5.5″
◾ Industrial applications
◾ Auto refire technology
◾ Available with shoulder strap
◾ Storage case
Miller 625 X-TREME is laced with auto-refire. The system automatically cuts, grates, perforates and polishes the material. The auto-refire makes convenient, efficient use of consumables and makes the operator comfortable. The air pressure setting is automatic according to the height and current setting to revamp the cutting scenario. It can cut clean stainless steel of 5/8 inch thickness.
It is a portable plasma cutter enclosed in a case and carries easily by a shoulder strap. The ergonomically planned torch has a no-slip design with a thumb guide to minimize hand fatigue. It is possible to run with an engine-driven welder as well.
Advantages and Applications
◾ High-performance plasma cutter
◾ Portable and lightweight
◾ 5/8 inches steel plate cut
◾ Easy and straightforward operation
◾ The torch is versatile and comfortable
◾ Storage case
◾ Auto-refire technology
4. Hobart AirForce 12ci, Plasma Cutter
Specifications
◾ Weight 26.7 Pounds
◾ Dimensions 10″ x 8″ x 13″
◾ Input power 120V 60Hz
◾ Power output 12A
◾ Built-in Compressor
◾ Duty Cycle 35%
◾ Torch length 12 feet
◾ Fan loaded
◾ Pilot arc diagnostic light
◾ Thermal overload defense
◾ Post-flow cooling
The inverter-based plasma metal cutter with powerful cutting capabilities. The unit is compact, lightweight, and fitted with an inbuilt compressor. The preset air pressure will maximize cutting performance. You can carry it with you anywhere you employ in your metal cutting project as there is no need for any compressor.
It is known for its high-precision metal cut with sufficiently good speed. It is very easy to install, just put on the torch and start the operation.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Highly portable and lightweight
◾ Easy installation and operation
◾ No need for an extraneous air compressor
◾ Thermal overload protection
◾ High-quality durable plasma-cutting machine
◾ Clean cutting
◾ Sheet metal cutting
◾ Auto body repair
◾ Hobbyist artwork
5. Forney Easy Weld 20P Plasma Cutter
Specifications
◾ Portable and strongly built
◾ Weight 28.8 pounds
◾ Dimensions 10.5″ x 8″ x 12.8″
◾ Power input 120V 60Hz
◾ Duty cycle 35%
◾ Torch length 12.5ft
Forney Easy weld plasma cutter machine suits the best hobbyists and light sections cutting up to 1/4″ thickness. This air plasma cutting machine is affordable and completes most of your cutting jobs in the workshop. The air supply is preset and controlled here for precise cutting.
The unit is best for your money to accomplish your job. The cutting is fine, precise, and quite prompt.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Portable and handy
◾ Consistent quality cut
◾ One of the best plasma cutter
◾ Good sheet cutting
◾ Auto body repairs
◾ Plumbing and contractors
◾ DIYs and metal art
6. Lincoln Electric Tomahawk 1000 Plasma Cutter
Specifications
◾ Powerful plasma cutter
◾ Input power 208-575, single and three-phase 50-60 Hz
◾ DC output
◾ Adjust automatically to the power inputs
◾ Touch start system
◾ Constant output control for different metals
◾ Cooling is planned
◾ Consumable has a good life
The Tomahawk 1000 is portable, and rugged to work in a production environment. It is one of the easiest units to install and just put the gun to cut the metal. The power input is strong enough to cut the sheet up to one inch. It has front panel control to make the operation easy. The consumable has a pretty long life and saves money for you.
It is compatible with engine drives to work in remote places. The portability and effectiveness make it a choice for cutting in most industries.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Portable and rugged structure
◾ Minimum slag formation
◾ Saves energy in operation
◾ Non-touch pilot arc system
◾ Quick cooling system
◾ Quiet operation
◾ Ferrous material cutting
◾ Non Ferrous materials like copper, brass and aluminum are possible.
7. Esab CUTMASTER 152
Specifications
◾ Front panel LED
◾ Versatile torch with ATC disconnect
◾ Guard roll bar
◾ Power inputs 208-480
◾ Autopilot restart
◾ Portable and compact
◾ Cutting capacity 30mm-50mm
◾ Weight 62 pounds
Esab Cutmaster 152 included a capacity to cut the metal from 30mm-50mm comfortably. The versatile torch is very easy to install and replace consumables. Sturdy, compact unit to offer a precise, clean cutting for the industries. The continuous output control mechanism monitors the material thickness and varying conditions like paint and rust to dust the arc for perfect cutting achievement.
The plasma cutter is versatile to cut in varied industries with excellent results. They furnish the unit with a guard roll bar, which makes it handy and portable.
Advantages and Applications
◾ High-performance durable plasma cutter
◾ Easy operability
◾ Versatile torch
◾ Heavy-duty cutting
◾ Structural industries
◾ Plumbing uses
◾ Portable and durable
8. Everlast Plasma Cutter 62i
Specifications
◾ Voltage range 220/240 V 1phase
◾ Duty cycle 60% at 60A/104V
◾ Gun is pilot arc type
◾ Weight 58 pounds
◾ Blowback piston
◾ Post-flow facility
◾ Portable and compact
◾ Sturdy equipment
The Everlast plasma cutter is IGBT based with a pilot arc to cut even rusty and painted metals. A duty cycle of 60% can cut any metal with its excellent torch. The blowback start arc is for fast and precise metal cutting. The front penal pressure gauge helps to confirm the air pressure from time to time.
The auto-cut facility is there with this plasma cutter in case of any fault. Post flow timer saves the consumables. The cutting quality and speed are matchless.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Front panel air gauge
◾ Post flow for the consumables
◾ Auto cut function
◾ Versatile torch
◾ Precision cutting
◾ Industrial use
◾ Heavy-duty steel cutting
9. Eastwood Versa Plasma Cutter
Specifications
◾ AC input 220v
◾ Output power 60 ampere
◾ Versatile torch
◾ Universally available consumables
◾ Duty cycle 60% at 60 ampere
◾ Maximum cut 7/8 inches
◾ Weight 45 pounds
The Eastwood portable plasma cutter is a choice for making a clean, prompt cut through stainless steel and aluminum. The powerful unit can cut even the 24 gauge material with equal ease. It works fast and intricate cutting more precisely and saving money and time.
The pilot arc helps to initiate the arc smoothly to cut rusted and expanded metal. The gun has an internal configuration to save from moisture for a consistent arc. The plasma cutting machine is portable, sturdy, and strong with precise and clean metal cutting.
Advantages and Applications
◾ Portable and handy
◾ Easy to install and operate
◾ Pilot arc function
◾ Heavy-duty cutting
◾ Best in thin metal cutting
◾ Hobbyist’s choice
10. R-Tech I-Cut 100 Plasma Cutter
Specifications
◾ Ampere range 20-100A
◾ Duty cycle 60%
◾ Input voltage 415v 22A
◾ Cutting capability 24-40mm
◾ Weight 24kg
◾ Dimensions 515 x 220 x 395 mm
◾ Pilot arc restart
IGBT-based heavy-duty plasma cutter. Incorporated a pilot arc to cut approximately 32 mm precisely. It has a pilot restart to cut a mesh with its heavy-duty torch. The consumable has a longer life making it an affordable choice for a plasma cutter.
It can cut the painted and expanded metal surface with ease. The 60% duty cycle makes it a choice for heavy industries for bigger cutting. The best metal chassis is the added feature of this plasma-cutting machine.
Advantages and Applications
◾ IGBT Based plasma metal cutter
◾ Heavy-duty industries
◾ Bigger cutting
◾ Can cut painted metal
◾ Strong and sturdy
◾ Consumable longer life
A Buying Guide – Plasma Cutter
What power levels will you need?
The power level you need from your plasma cutter depends upon the metal type and the thickness that is to be cut. The power output significantly influences the cutting quality, ability, and duty cycle of the model. Common models in workshops and homes run on 120V, and 15A outlets but efficient high-performance needs 20-50A and 220v.
The thickness of the metal is a big consideration when determining the power of the plasma cutter. The unit can cut any conductive metal from copper to steel. Plasma torch with 25 amperes cut perfectly up to 1/4 inch, the 40A demanded cutting 1/2 inch while the minimum 60A required for 1-inch sheet thickness.
Work out with your electric department to calculate your needs in a workshop or home. If you need to cut a 1/2-inch metal plate, it requires 220v output. Power output is directly proportional to input power but chooses the accurate power wasting no power input.
Cost vs Performance
Making a balance between performance and cost is a tough challenge. You have a limitation to spending the amount you have with you. The performance and quality of the product are the next challenges.
As a rule, determine the specifications you need in your plasma cutter. Make a list of the specifications that can fulfill your cutting needs. Enlist the model available and their specifications. Pinpoint the model that can achieve the cutting goal of your project.
Do not spend a penny for the extra specifications which you do not need in your project. Eliminate unnecessary features and accessories to curtail the cost without compromising performance.
Never calculate the initial cost only for its unit only but consumables as well. The running cost is equally essential for cost-effectiveness.
Plasma Cutting for Learners
Your need as a beginner fabricator differs from the industrial units for heavy cutting. Hobbyists, artists, and DIYs generally need a high-performance model as the desired plasma cutter.
Better to evaluate your unique needs, as your project and capabilities. Impulsive buying can lead to a cluttered collection than to a superb cutter collection. Choose the equipment as your ability permits. The potentiality is to perform and spend.
A beginner needs to consider the following points:
Assess the power output of the plasma cutting machine. It will ensure how much thickness and width we can cut with the purchased metal cutter.
Select the model which is having its torch, high quality, durable, and versatile with a long span life.
Consumables of Plasma Cutter
The parts of the unit which wear out with time are consumables. The plasma cutter has the following consumables:
◾ Nozzle
◾ Electrode
◾ Shield
◾ Retaining cap
◾ Swirl ring
The shield protects other consumables from molten pools and sparks. The retaining cap holds the consumable slack in position. The swirl ring directs the gas from the unit across the torch for the cutting. The electrode and nozzles are the fastest to wear out. The nozzle compresses the plasma arc and controls the gas flow. The electrode helps to ignite the arc for the plasma cutting.
A good quality air compressor is another essential to complete the process.
Various Applications of Plasma Cutting
Commercial Cutting in Industries
Plasma cutter plays a very essential role to make manufacturing optimum and cost-effective. Whether you produce a single piece or mass production, cost and effort should be kept in mind. When working on plasma or doing conventional cutting, compare them.
Mounted Plasma torches lower the cost of cutting when during automation, cuts particular patterns. Not even they are faster but more clean, precise and less dross is noticed. Industrial cutting does not allow a tiny error, so automated and programmed torches remove this risk.
The high-tech industrial process needs aesthetics and precision as prime importance. The initial cost of these plasma machines may be high, but the durability of the equipment and consumables needs a sympathetic consideration. This will reduce the effective cost for a longer time.
Artcraft Work Cutting
Artcraft is such a venture that without proper tools may be a frustrating experience to express themselves. To reach the level of creativity, artists with a plasma cutter are enabled to make minute, complex, and intricate cuts and designs.
The era before the plasma torch was tough for a metal artist to make a precise cut. The available source for cutting was inadequate to take control of their artwork. These torches empower the artist to make different intricate themes in solo or in mass production even.
The ionized plasma torch empowers an artist to fulfill his dream of the art of his choice.
Automotive Carriage Cutting
Automotive professionals, hobbyists, and garage owners need plasma for automotive cutting for vehicular restoration, customization, and repair. The cutting needs include the removal of parts, fabrication of new parts, nuts & bolts cutting, and preparing metal surfaces. Portability and lower weight are always the need for the automotive business.
The need is always for a handy, strong, versatile gun with a pilot arc to cut even rusty and painted surfaces in every small nook & cleft. The automotive cutting is generally a thin sheet not beyond 1/2″ thickness.
DIYs or Home Fabrication
A homeowner may need a gun to cut metal for repair and maintenance. In a home, we can summarize various applications like plumbing, home welding repair, garage doors, and fixture fabrication.
The choice of a plasma cutter with a long life, and an economical consumable cost is a better option where portability may be compromised.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you set up a Plasma Cutter?
The plasma cutting is based on the principle of complete electric current, so the need for a ground clamp is there. Choose a safe work surface in your workshop where you can move around the work table freely.
Time to plug in the machine after ensuring the compressor is around. Attach the compressor to the metal cutter and examine the continuous flow of the air pressure.
Now place your workpiece over the table and connect a ground clamp to the workpiece as near as possible for the best results. Switch on the unit by flicking and pressing a switch on the unit marked on/off or power.
What is possible to cut by plasma cutting?
The plasma cutting is possible with any electrically conductive metals because there will be a complete electric current circuit through a workpiece and ground clamp.
The electric current generates an arc and the heated arc melts the metal into ionic plasma form. The plasma propagates and increases its speed once passes through an orifice. The air pressure in turn blows away the molten plasma metal and produces a very clean and precise cut.
The user can cut through metals like copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel. It can cut any electrically conductive material.
Should I purchase a Plasma Cutter online?
There is no harm in purchasing a plasma metal cutter online. Most online stores offer free shipping. They generally offer free accessories for online purchases.
Brick-and-mortar stores can display 10-15 models, while online stores display hundreds of products online. The choice becomes wider and so does the purchase.
The reviews of the previous purchaser may help you know the material better.
Can we cut wood or plastic with a plasma cutter?
No, it is not possible to cut nonconductive materials. Wood and plastic are electrical resistance materials.
The metal thickness is the prerequisite to the current setting and air pressure maintenance. Bring the nozzle near the metal and pull the trigger to start the cutting.
How much faster is a plasma cutter?
The most effective means of metal cutting is plasma cutting. It is possible to cut 200 inches of metal per minute with a good plasma cutter.
The people are working on the technique to improve the speed further. The better speed, the better product is the aim.
Is a cheap plasma cutter worth it?
If you purchase a cheap plasma cutter, please do not expect adequate power, durability, and optimal quality. The thinner sheet may work better with a low-price plasma cutter.
Final Verdict
As a rule “ Durable plasma cutters are valued for their mass in gold” The reviewed items are tried, tested, and used by genuine people. Choosing one from the list will make you a satisfied client once you select the model according to your needs.
Keep in mind the cutting width, power output, cost, duty cycle, portability, and consumables when you are planning to shop for a metal cutter. Decide the matter by scrutinizing the accurate need along with quality, and cost.
We find Hypertherm Powermax 45 and Cruxweld CWP-CUT100i in the same league as far as utility and specifications. The cost factor tilts the table toward Cruxweld as it is more economical than Hypertherm.
Now you are armed with our plasma cutter reviews and buying guide as a helping tool. We hope you are more equipped and wiser with an informed decision to buy a plasma cutter.
Now it’s your turn to comment and put your thoughts in the comment box.
