Best Plasma Cutters for Flawless Cuts

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 14, 2024
When it comes to tough-to-perform metal cutting projects, a plasma cutter is probably the most efficient solution. We suggest you consider 5 best plasma cutters reviewed for making the right choice. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Input voltage / Output current
Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage
Rated output / Duty cycle
Gas flow rate / Pressure
Conveniences
Torch hose length
Size (H x W x D)
Weight
Warranty
 
PROS

A sturdy and convenient case will let you comfortably carry the tool together with the accessories.

CONS

Has a high gas consumption.

OUR VERDICT

The Miller Electric cutter will meet the needs of those consumers who seek ergonomics and convenience of use. The intuitive controls and comfortable handle make the tool suitable for beginners. 

detailed parameters
Type

Inverter

Input voltage / Output current

120, 240V / 15-30A

Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage

From: 16 GA - 158 IPM at 20A

To: 5/8 in - 6 IPM at 30A

Rated output / Duty cycle

20A / 35% at 120V

30A / 35% at 240V

Gas flow rate / Pressure

5.0 scfm / 90-120 psi

Conveniences

Rated cutting capacity, XT30 torch & quick connect work lead and clamp, Auto-Line™ and MVP™, Auto-Refire™, Automatic air regulation, Protective X-CASE™, Wind Tunnel Technology™ and Fan-On-Demand™ cooling system

Torch hose length

12'

Size (H x W x D)

9.0" x 5.5" x 13.2"

Weight

18 lbs

Warranty

3 years

PROS

This machine effectively cuts rough, painted, or rusty surfaces and leaves almost no slag. It features the 10-35A DC output and very smooth cutting at all power settings.

CONS

It is rather heavy.

OUR VERDICT

The FLARING FL550DU is energy saving and noiseless, offering the high cutting speed of metals. The overheating protection will help with intensive work. The unit is suitable not only for domestic needs, but also for commercial jobs.

detailed parameters
Type

Inverter

Input voltage / Output current

110, 220V / 30-50A

Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage

Not specified

Rated output / Duty cycle

50A / 60% at 115V

50A / 60% at 220V

Gas flow rate / Pressure

4.5 scfm at 70 psi

Conveniences

Cooling fan, IGBT inverter, Overheat & overvoltage protection, Suitable for stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, cast iron, and chrome

Torch hose length

13'

Size (H x W x D)

19.75" x 11.7" x 14.7"

Weight

24.7 lbs

Warranty

3 years

PROS

A wide output range allows you to set the optimum power and get smooth and precise cuts.

CONS

The torch cable is quite short.

OUR VERDICT

From our experience, this model demonstrates quite good performance and is pretty gas-saving. Thus, you'll be able to cut 0.5" of metal at 20 IPM, which is a great efficiency for the price.

detailed parameters
Type

Inverter

Input voltage / Output current

110, 220V / 10-50A

Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage

From: 26 GA - 360 IPM at 35A

To: 1/2 in - 20 IPM at 50A

Rated output / Duty cycle

50A / 60% at 110V

50A / 60% at 220V

Gas flow rate / Pressure

3.6 scfm / 65 psi

Conveniences

50-amp pilot arc plasma cutters, Automatic dual voltage / dual frequency, Compact and portable, Suitable for stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, aluminum, etc.

Torch hose length

9.4'

Size (H x W x D)

12.0" x 6.0" x 15.0"

Weight

22.5 lbs

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The simple and affordable equipment for cutting stainless steel, alloys, aluminum, mild steel, and carbon steel. The convenient 3-second blowing time after releasing the torch helps cool down the machine.

CONS

It lacks additional features.

OUR VERDICT

The Reboot CUT50D cutter is widely used in automotive and air duct work, repair and maintenance, metal processing and manufacturing. The machine works with the main and additional generator.

detailed parameters
Type

Inverter

Input voltage / Output current

110, 220V / 20-50A

Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage

Not specified

Rated output / Duty cycle

40% at 180A 

100% at 116A

Gas flow rate / Pressure

4 scfm at 70 psi

Conveniences

LED display, Current knob, Ground connector, Torch connector, Waterproof switch, Suitable for stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, cast iron, and chrome

Torch hose length

13'

Size (H x W x D)

12.5" x 5.9" x 13.4"

Weight

21.4 lbs

Warranty

1 year limited

PROS

A plasma cutter with a LED display and a power lamp. It has a lot of power and can meet the daily needs while also being a good helper for DIY projects.

CONS

There are inaccuracies in the instructions.

OUR VERDICT

This cutting machine is lightweight and convenient and especially good for automotive steel (frame). It uses the latest IGBT inverter technology, easily cutting stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, and copper. An excellent choice for beginners.

detailed parameters
Type

Inverter

Input voltage / Output current

115, 230V / 35-40A

Material thickness - Cutting speed at output amperage

Not specified

Rated output / Duty cycle

30A / 100% at 115V

40A / 60% at 230V

Gas flow rate / Pressure

6 scfm at 65 psi

Conveniences

LED display, Handle, Air regulator, Automatic voltage identification, Suitable for steel, alloy steel, mild steel, aluminum

Torch hose length

13.1'

Size (H x W x D)

17" x 13.7" x 11.8"

Weight

19 lbs

Warranty

2 years

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Miller Electric Spectrum 375

No Handle!

It's time for the Spectrum® 375 X-TREME™ cutter by Miller Electric to show its potential. Looking at this machine only makes us think it's one of the smallest inverter cutters. Which appeared to be true as the machine is 9" high and 5.5" wide. Moreover, the weight is just 18 lbs, which adds to its superb compactness as for a plasma cutting device. The portability of the model is further emphasized by the design with a strap instead of the handle. With the strap, you'll be able to carry the unit on your shoulder, which is handier than carrying it in your hands. Proceeding to the rear panel, we can see a single control, which adjusts the amperage. Close to the amperage control we notice 4 LED lights that warn us about the power on, low air pressure, torch tip faults, and overheating. The start switch is located on the rear panel along with the air inlet and power cord connector. By the way, the cord is made according to the MVP™ (Multi−Voltage Plug) technology and allows connecting the cutter to power networks with different voltage without additional tools. The power cord length is 10", and the torch hose and ground cable are 12" long.

Review of Miller Electric Spectrum 375 Plasma Cutter

When Portability Meets Performance

Now, let's see what this cutter can really do… The Auto-Line™ and MVP™ technologies provide connectivity to 120V or 240V electric power networks without additional converters. Using the inverter, the machine generates 15А to 30А current with the maximum amperage achievable only using the 240V power source. Consequently, having switched the machine to the maximum performance mode, you'll be able to cut 5/8" thick soft metalware at 6 IPM. The 20А power will let you cut through up to 3/8" thick pieces at the same cutting speed. As for the minimum cutting width, the machine cuts 16GA sheets at 20А and 12GA pieces at 30А. The cutting speeds are 158 and 105 IPM respectively. As you can see, a compact size doesn't affect the cutter's performance, so you can freely handle materials of different thicknesses. The duty cycle is 35% for 20А/120V and 30А/240V. When setting the machine to 22А/240V, you can cut without interruptions for cooling the tool down. We were quite surprised by the plasma flow rate, which is as high as 5.0 scfm at 90-120 psi for such a small unit.

Miller Electric Spectrum 375 Plasma Cutter in the use

Everything for Comfort

Now, let's sum up the key advantages of the Spectrum® 375 X-TREM

To make the use of the tool comfortable, there's an automatic air supply pressure adjustment feature that ensures smooth cutting under any electric load. Also, it has a thumb groove and a XT30 torch with a nonslip coating and flexible hose for maneuverability. Aside from that, the Spectrum® 375 X-TREME is designed with the Wind Tunnel Technology™ and Fan-On-Demand™ - two major technologies that ensure effective protection of the internal components of the tool from ingress of dust and dirt.

Using the tool is as easy as anything, thanks to the Auto-Refire™ feature that not only boosts its performance but also minimizes strain in your hands. In addition, this feature made it possible to cut perforated metal and grates simply by switching the tie point of the pilot arc from inside to outside part as fast as required, so you don't have to trigger the machine again and again.

Finally, if you're planning to use a plasma cutter on sites, you'll be pleased to know that it comes in a sturdy plastic case, offering ample storage space for both the tool and accessories.

To wrap up, this model is a wonderful choice for people handling thin materials and looking for a compact and easy to carry around plasma cutter.

Detailed review of Miller Electric Spectrum 375 Plasma Cutter

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $2,080.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B007FHSXBE

 

FLARING ‎FL550DU

Power Over Metal

Who’s to say a metal cutting project must be all pain and effort? Check out the FLARING plasma cutter – and be impressed with how safe and effective it is.

First things first; this non-touch cutter can process rough, rusty, or painted surfaces with ease and minimal slag. If you’re tired of low quality cuts, the FLARING is easily your best friend. You can even make super precise cuts with it if you learn how. This machine doesn’t limit you as to what – and in what way – you can handle at your workshop.

Now, let’s go over the cuts in more detail. The FLARING delivers the 10-50A dc output, producing the 1/2" ideal clean cut as well as the 3/5" maximum severance cut at 220V. As for the materials that this plasma cutter can handle, it’s stainless/alloy/mild steel as well as cast iron, copper, and chrome. If, say, you have a 3/16 mild steel plate, this machine will cut it easily like butter. Save your time – and spare your nerves while working on the projects.

Can this plasma cutter be used for commercial needs as well? Yes, absolutely. Utilize it as a professional tool of choice and make cutting metal a pleasure rather than a chore.

Review of FLARING ‎FL550DU Plasma Cutter Machine Pilot Arc 50 AMP 110/220V

Safe & User-Centric

The FLARING lets you save up on the energy bills – and doesn’t bother you with noise. Yes, this cutter is on the heavier side, but it’s nothing critical. You’ll love the high speed of this machine that’s faster than a touch arc plasma cutter. Reaching 40,000 °F in a flash, it pierces through the material like a champ. Need a 110V adapter for the job? No worries, as you’ll have it in the package.

Not only is this unit effective, but also extra safe, giving you the well-deserved peace of mind. It features the built-in overheat and overvoltage protection. If you want to be on the extra safe side, keep the machine running for 10-15 minutes after the cut to further cool it down. This will extend the cutter’s lifespan, and you’ll be using your new favorite tool for a longer period.

Great, but what about the stability? The machine comes with 4 rectifiers and 3 large capacitors of high power, which boosts this quality.

All in all, the plasma cutter by FLARING is fit for personal and commercial projects, allowing you to cut metal quickly and without effort. It makes a great practical present to a DIY fan or design artist.

FLARING ‎FL550DU Plasma Cutter Machine Pilot Arc 50 AMP 110/220V in the use

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08BCMJT1Y

 

Lotos Technology LTP5000D

Seen From Afar

The LTP5000D is a product of the US-based company Lotos. It doesn't differ much from most other models in terms of design, but it certainly has a few aces up its sleeve. 

Let's take a look at its control panel first. On top of the unit, there's an ON/OFF switch, an amperage control knob, and an overheating light indicator. If you turn it upside down, you'll see a port for a torch hose, a power socket, a pilot arc, and ground cable sockets. The torch cable of 9.4 feet isn't too long, but is pretty standard for plasma cutters. The ground cable (6ft) could be longer, but is not a problem for most basic tasks too. 

While the design of the tool, as we stated eariler, isn't much different from the rest of the tools, it does stand out from the crowd due to its bright red color, making it easy to see it even in poorly lit conditions. 

Review of Lotos Technology LTP5000D Plasma Cutter

Great Output at a Low Price

Now, let's cover this cutting machine's capabilities.

To start off, the machine features an inverter that delivers the amperage ranging from 10А to 50А. The LTP5000D can be powered from both 110V and 220V electric sources and cut materials of various thicknesses.

For example, when powered from 35А, the cutter is able to cut metalware from 16 to 26 GA at 360 and 225 IPM, respectively. This makes it perfectly suitable for various jobs, from maintenance of an old car to repair of farmstead machinery, and so on. Yet, some metal parts may be too small for the cutter, and you may need to use an angle grinder for further processing.

Overall, with the 60% at 50А duty cycle and airflow of 3.6 scfm at 65 psi allow, this cutter can put many other more expensive tools to shame.

Lotos Technology LTP5000D Plasma Cutter in the use

Low Amps

To elaborate, we'd like to draw your attention to the pilot arc that allows you to cut perforated metal parts and even grid without the need to release the trigger. Also of note is the fact that a minimum of what the tool can deliver is 10A current, which makes suitable for processing thin metal pieces.

And if you worry about overheating, don't fret. Whenever the unit runs for too long, the LED light will start to flash, and the tool will cut out automatically while the built-in fan will continue to work, cooling the components of the tool.

All in all, if you're seeking an affordable machine that will be suitable for home-based tasks and then some, the LTP50000D can be the best choice. It's easy to use and can give even some more advanced tools a run for the money.

Detailed review of Lotos Technology LTP5000D Plasma Cutter

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $399.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B0052OX876

 

Reboot CUT50D

Practical to a ‘T’

Want to keep your plasma cutter simple and not overpriced? Enter the Reboot CUT50D model. It’s easy in use, does effective cuts, and doesn’t cost too much.

To start with, this cutter supports the 20-50A DC output with the 1/2" ideal clean cut as well as the 3/4" severance cut at 220/240V. Don’t need the rough cuts that take you nowhere? You know which unit you should get then.

The Reboot deals with most metals, including stainless/alloy/aluminum/mild/carbon steel. Feel free to use this cutter for automotive, air duct, and repair jobs, as well as metal processing and manufacture.

Being powerful doesn’t mean a machine must be overweight. In fact, this unit weighs 21.4 pounds, which is lighter than some of the competitors; no need to overstrain yourself when using it. In case you’d ask, the cutter can be utilized for home-based and professional projects.

So, how about moving the machine? You can do it without the extra fuss, due to it being portable. A nice touch for those who use a number of working spots. The Reboot also features an ergonomic handle to ease the transportation.

Review of Reboot CUT50D Air Plasma Cutting Machine

Saves Your Wallet

Guess what? You can add an extra generator to your Reboot plasma cutter. Reinforce the tool with a 5000W above unit as well as a 30A/50A breaker. Up your metal cutting routine with more power – and more efficiency.

Worried about the overheating? You shouldn’t be with this machine. The Reboot starts the pre-made 3-second blowing time when the torch is released. This helps cool down the head of the cutting torch and the consumables; which, in turn, expands the lifespan of this cutter. Buy one and forget all about the costly replacements.

While this machine doesn’t come packed with extra features, this accounts for its simplicity in use. You don’t have to be a certified professional to start working with this device. Assembling the unit is also simple if you stick to the instructions. All in all, this cutter gives you a real value for money without being overpriced.

Finally, to the regulator; the Reboot features an updated one that is well-sealed, doesn’t allow air leakages, and boasts long service life.

In conclusion, this plasma cutter is a great find for beginners as well as experienced pros. It gives you quality and all the basic features you’ll need for a successful project.

Reboot CUT50D Air Plasma Cutting Machine in the use
Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B095PM41G9

 

hynade HYC45D

Advanced Cutting Technology

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the hynade plasma cutter has got something to offer. It’s powerful and accurate, easy to master, and doesn’t drain your wallet.

Let’s start with the fact that this cutter utilizes the advanced IGBT inverter tech. It can tackle stainless/alloy/mild steel, as well as the 2mm copper and 4mm aluminum plates. This model is high frequency touch metal arc.

Is the hynade effective? Definitely, yes. It cuts through metal like a knife would through the butter, and the accuracy is high enough for more sophisticated projects. You’re more than welcome to use it for automotive jobs, repairs, or any DIY project.

This plasma cutter is super compact – and extra lightweight at only 14.3 pounds. If you’ve had one of those bulky, overweight units, get ready to be impressed. The hynade is anything but inconvenient and can be carried around the workshop without all the sweating. As for the handle, it’s easy on your hands, but you must still be careful and steady so as not to miss the lines. Metal artists and other DIY fans will surely appreciate the design of this cutter.

Review of hynade HYC45D Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 115/230V plasma cutting machine

Good for Beginners

The input voltage for this unit is 115/230V, with the maximum current of 35Amps under 115V / 40Amps under 230V. The clean cutting thickness is 4mm and 8mm correspondently. Work through the plates with ease and comfort, bringing your project to success.

The hynade comes with a handy current LCD display placed right at the front of the unit. The current knob is easy in use, and the post air time can also be adjusted. It’s easy to get the instant readings for this device – and not become distracted from the job.

Yes, the instructions for this unit could be somewhat inaccurate, but apart from this drawback, the hynade is a user-centric cutter. Experienced workers as well as beginners can use it without an extensive learning curve. If you’re planning to give it away as a present to a friend or a coworker, be sure that the feedback will be positive. Those practicing artistic design will also appreciate having a reliable, effective cutter at their workshop.

Overall, the hynade plasma cutter is user-friendly, works for multiple purposes, and doesn’t come with a too heavy price tag.

hynade HYC45D Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 115/230V plasma cutting machine in the use
Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08JV9YH92

 

Infographics

Comparison of Plasma Cutters for Flawless Cuts

What Is a Plasma Cutter?

There are many different types of cutting tools available today, and each one has its benefits. For example, a hacksaw is well-known for its ability to cut thin wall pipes while an angle grinder is the best tool to process thick metal pieces. The question is, why use a plasma cutter? The main reason people opt for a plasma cutter is because it delivers finer cutting results, unlike angle grinders, which often leave burrs that require further grounding. Aside from that, plasma cutters are much easier to use as they just follow your hand's movement. To help you choose a plasma cutter that will perfectly suit your jobs, we've outlined the most important selection criteria that should be taken into account prior to making a purchase. 

Metalworking usually involves cutting and welding. Therefore, we recommend using a chop saw for fast cutting and getting one of the MIG welders to quickly join metal parts and weld uniform seams.

Best Plasma Cutters

What Features to Compare

Type

Plasma cutters come equipped with transformers and inverters. As for the former cutters, they consist of mechanical parts and offer only the stepped adjustment of the output power and only in the off mode. This type of devices does not allow a constant voltage regulation, so the output voltage can drop under a high load. Yet, the main advantages of transformer models are their simple design that largely facilitates the maintenance, as well as their affordable price. As for the invertor cutters, they feature CNC controls for a steady output power adjustment regardless of input voltage jumps and the load. In addition, plasma cutters employ contact and contactless cutting types. A contact cutting is usually used for the materials with 0.4 - 0.6" thickness, while contactless cutting is applied to 0.7 to 3" thick metalware. Of course, the utilized power is the main aspect of any power tool. As to plasma cutters, this power entirely depends on the output amperage. However, for these devices, the type of a power supply unit is crucial as transformer-powered cutters can cut metal with the thickness of up to 1.5", while inverter-powered are able to provide only the 1.18" max cutting depth. Despite the smaller cutting depth, the performance of inverter plasma cutters is enough for most tasks, so they are often preferred by beginners and even experienced users.

Specifications

Speaking of the operating principle of plasma cutters, they use the compressed air from a reservoir. The compressed air is pumped through a torch nozzle at 0.6-0.9 miles per second speed, where it gets ionized with an electric arc with its temperature reaching 50,000 °F for the metal melting. Thus, the higher is the amperage in the ionizer, the higher is the plasma temperature and the thicker metal pieces the plasma can cut. So, mind the type and thickness of the material you're going to cut when choosing the cutter. There are cutting standards that establish the ratio of metal thickness to the applied amperage. With that, nonferrous metals of up to 19 GA should be cut with 6А power, while stainless steel and ferrous metals are to be cut with 4А. According to this pattern, you need a welder with 50A amperage for cutting the parts of up to 1/2" thickness. The cutting speed is another important aspect, given that the thicker the piece, the slower the cutting. Also, pay attention to the cutter duty cycle. A full duty cycle is considered a 10-minute period. Thus, for example, "50А / 60%" means that the machine can work for 6 min at 50А, i.e. for 60% of the 10-minute interval. When the specified duty cycle is over, the cutter needs to be turned off to cool down, after that you can resume the operation.

Convenience Features

Some plasma cutters are convenient for having built-in compressors that supply the air to the torch. Such machines are compact and are usually used by household owners. The models with external standalone compressors have a longer life cycle and are typically used on construction sites and at production facilities. The availability of an overheating protection is another benefit as it shuts the cutter down if it exceeds the specified temperature. If you're going to use a cutter outdoors, consider the length of its air supply hose, which, if it is long enough, allows not taking the whole device outside. Nevertheless, some machines weigh 20-25 lbs, so they aren't so hard to carry outside. Finally, pay attention to the cutter accessories. Some models may come with a protective helmet or goggles, hoses for air tanks and tips for a contact welding. So, if you have a hard time choosing between two models, the accessories set may be the deciding factor.

Sources:

1. A Guide to Buying Plasma Cutters on eBay, eBay. May 22, 2015.

2. Choosing a Plasma Cutter for Your Home Workshop, DoItYourself.

3. James Anderton How to Select a Plasma Cutting Machine for your Shop, ENGINEERINGcom. March 2, 2015.

4. Plasma Cutting - Tips & Techniques, Eastwood.

5. Plasma cutting, Wikipedia. March 29, 2017.

6. How a Plasma Cutter Works, Lincoln Electric.

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