Best Plasma Cutter For the Money

Best Plasma Cutter For the Money

travis_andersen • January 16, 2018 • 5 min read

While plasma cutters offer a range of benefits regardless of build, the best plasma cutter offers an optimal combination of speed, efficiency, fuel frugality and safety that the user needs to achieve maximum productivity. The means to getting this perfect cutter are discussed in our guide.

Futuristic as the name may sound, plasma cutters have been around since the 1960s, and are today used to achieve the finest, least erroneous and fastest metal cuts. Indeed, such is their fame that they have almost completely swamped older metal-against-metal and oxy-torch cutting methods in most commercial establishments.

That said, it would be wrong to suggest that they make cutting metal – or any other hard and thick material – completely risk-free or extremely cheap. While risks and costs are reduced, making a mistake while choosing the best plasma cutter can lead to waste of money, metal and time even as unnecessary threats to your health arise on a regular basis.

The key then is to skip the endless advertorials and educate oneself so one has a great idea about what a plasma cutter truly is, what benefits it offers and finally how to choose a cutter that fits one’s needs.

However, we realize that even when armed with such information, going through endless product lists and user reviews can be a gruelling task. Hence, we decided to use our expertise (which we’ll of course share with you) and a careful study of the market to come up with the best plasma cutters available in the market today.

Best plasma cutter

1.     Lotos LTP5000F  Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage, 1/2-Inch Clean Cut

This is one of the best plasma cutters, which is specially designed for your home projects. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer looking to achieve clean cuts in a vast range of metals, Lotos LTP5000D is just what you need.

Features

·        Non-hazardous compressed air

This feature enables a plasma cutter to cut through any metal type with ease. Initially, metal workers depended on oxyfuel cutting, which was limited to steel only. Lotos LTP5000D does not depend on oxidation, hence can cut through aluminium, stainless steel, copper, alloy steel, or mild steel.

The compressed air constitutes high-velocity ionized gases. The plasma torch heats the air, which in turn melts the material.

·        Dual voltage

LTP5000D can operate on either 110V or 220V with a dual frequency of 50/60Hz each. Most people prefer dual voltage appliances due to their ability to adapt to different countries’ electricity demands. For instance, this voltage can work for both US and European current.

·        Portability

This device is more compact compared to other plasma cutters in the market. To enhance its portability, it comes with a sturdy handle. You can therefore effortlessly carry it to your job site.

·        Pilot arc torch

The torch doesn’t have to be in close contact with the metal for you to attain a perfect cut. Due to its efficiency, it can cut through rusty, painted, or rough surfaces and still make a clean cut.

·        ½” clean cut

LTP5000D plasma cutter cuts 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch thickness. However, the cleanest cut it can produce is ½ inch.

Pros

  • Quite portable
  • Easy to set-up and use
  • Uses a dual voltage power
  • Quite portable for mobility, with a carrying handle
  • Free online tutorials

Cons

  • The plasma cutter lacks a trigger guard for the torch

LTP5000D plasma cutter is the ideal choice for cutting through a wide variety of metals. Though it cannot withstand the heavy-duty industrial cutting, it is a powerful tool for small tasks around your home.

2.     Primeweld Premium and Rugged Plasma Cutter Automatic Dual Voltage ½” Clean Cut

If you’re looking for precision, you can find it in the innovative Primeweld Premium plasma cutter. You can count on this cutting-edge tool for your hobbies, crafting, and the rest of your home projects.

Features

·        Precision cut

This device handles clean cuts of up to 1/2” and severance thickness of 3/4”. This is great for both domestic and commercial use. You can cut any steel, copper, or aluminium metal.

·        Portability

Primeweld premium features a compact design for ease of mobility. It is lighter and has an ergonomic handle to enable you to move with it around without hassle.

·        Longer warranty

For its price, a three-year warranty is a great deal. This is actually longer when compared to other models. The warranty covers repairs to the central unit and accessories. It also works for replacements.

·        Control panel

From the control panel, you can read the current meter and adjust the output voltage depending on the cutting intensity you want to achieve.

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Longer warranty
  • Quite portable
  • Easy to use, clean and maintain
  • Very safe since it supports the inbuilt fire preventive features
  • Cuts varieties of metals
  • Guarantees a fine cut with minimal distortion, thanks to the high-frequency DC

Cons

  • Setting it up maybe a little bit tricky

For any metalwork that needs precise cuts of up to 1/2-inch, Primeweld premium is a sure bet. It can cut through a wide range of metals in both industrial and domestic settings.

3.     Suncoo Plasma Cutter with Digital Display 50 Amp 110/220V Free Mask Cut-50

Suncoo’s plasma cutter will handle all light duties in commercial, domestic, automotive, or fabrication services. It delivers clean cuts in most conductive metals of up to 3/4”.

Features

·        Unbeatable cutting performance

Suncoo will effortlessly cut through carbon steel, alloy steel, mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, and iron. It is, therefore, a perfect choice for your do-it-yourself tasks, repair, fabrication, sculpting, and maintenance services.

·        Dual voltage

You can place this plasma cutter anywhere, regardless of whether the current bear European or American specifications. More excitingly, you will never require the extra expenses of having an adapter.

·        Easy-to-use control panel

The control panel consists of the current adjustment knob, protection and power indicator lamps, and the current meter.

·        Compact design

Suncoo plasma cutter is light and features an ergonomic carrying handle. You can conveniently carry it from your workshop to whatever place you are working on.

·        Digital display

The LED screen conveniently displays the current and pressure readings.

·        Cutting Torch

With a duty cycle of 60%, Suncoo is undoubtedly a professional plasma cutter. According to an article by The Fabricator, a 50% duty cycle is more than enough for regular cutting. However, you might need a more extensive system if your work involves mechanical cutting.

Pros

  • It is quite easy to set-up; no experience required
  • Compact design
  • Produces fine and clean cuts
  • Able to handle light to medium-duty tasks
  • Includes a digital display for easy control
  • 60% duty cycle

Cons

  • Needs proper maintenance, especially in polluted environments, lest it breaks down

Generally, Suncoo stands to be one of the best plasma cutters in the market. It can cut through nearly all conductive metals. Moreover, it works great for both industrial and domestic services.

4.     Super Deal Plasma Cutter Machine with  Dual Voltage 110/220VAC 1/2” Clean Cut

If you prefer speed without sacrificing a smooth cut, here’s your perfect choice. Super Deal plasma cutter is very loyal to producing finer cuts, regardless of the metal type.

Features

·        High duty cycle

In most cases, a greater duty cycle is always associated with a higher cost. However, the reverse is true with Super Deal plasma cutter. The duty cycle value results in lower power consumption when compared to other similar brands.

A value of 60% is enough to handle most tasks including repairs, maintenance, metal fabrication, and some commercial metalwork.

·        Digital LCD

Super Deal allows you to conveniently track all your data, thanks to the digital LCD. You can view the current reading and the pressure value while making relevant adjustments depending on the metal you’re cutting.

·        Safety

Before coming up with this system, the manufacturers had your safety in mind. Among the safety measures put in place includes a built-in over-voltage protection, over-heat protection, and a mask.

·        Strong and sturdy

This device features a solid construction. Having been made of heavy-duty iron, it is very strong and would last longer.

Pros

  • Very smooth finishing
  • High cutting speed
  • Easy to use and maintain
  • Environment-friendly
  • High duty cycle, which makes it able to withstand light-duty and some heavy-duty industrial machinery work
  • Produces less sound

Cons

  • You’ll have to purchase a separate air hose and unable to cut metals thicker than 12mm

The Super Deal cut-50 plasma cutter is the best for its high cutting speed and smooth finishing. There’s no need for polishing the surface after using this system.

It is durable and very reliable in a wide range of metal-slicing. Whether you’re a professional or just an amateur, the device will enable you to achieve perfect cuts. For its low cost, it is something worth falling for.

5.     Miller’s Plasma cutter, Inverter, Spectrum 375

Miller’s Spectrum 375 is the best plasma cutter for newbies and hobbyists who are working with thinner metals. It is a good option for crafting, metal fabrication, repairs, and other tasks around the farm, garage, or farm.

Features

·        Portability

Regarding portability, this device deserves a crown. It is very compact, lightweight and comes with an ergonomic handle as well as shoulder strap. All these enable you to carry the tool around comfortably without feeling the weight.

·        LED indicators

These indicators display the pressure, temperature, and the current readings. They are easy to interpret, regardless of whether you are a pro or a starter. The instruction manual comes in handy when in doubt.

·        Dual voltage (120/240VAC)

You’re never limited to a single power source.  You can safely connect to a power outlet wherever you are without risking overheating and possibly burning out the tool. Furthermore, you save the extra expenses you could have spent purchasing an adapter.

·        Air regulation

This is an automatic operation that maintains the right pressure for maximum efficiency.

·        Pilot Arc

Most plasma cutters require your effort to fire it up, but this is not the case with Spectrum 375. When a metal is in contact with the plasma torch, the pilot will automatically sense it and fire up. If there’s no contact, the arc will turn off. This factor is an energy saver since the machine will only turn on when it has to.

One more advantage of the pilot arc is that it is not selective based on the surface characteristics of the metal. It will slice through a rusty, corroded, or painted metal with utmost precision.

·        Smart cooling system

A good number of plasma cutters are programmed to shut down in case there’s overheating. Waiting for it to cool down can be time-consuming especially when you’ve got other things to attend to.

Spectrum 375 includes a cooling system with a thermostat, which automatically manages the temperatures. The fan turns on when the device is hot and turns off when it cools.

Pros

  • Lightweight with a carrying handle and a shoulder strap for ease of mobility
  • Multi-voltage plug
  • Starts with a low frequency, hence, no interference with the electronic device
  • Automatic re-fire technology
  • An excellent cooling system to manage overheating
  • Automatic pilot arc, which slices through corroded, painted, or rusty metals

Cons

  • Very costly

Spectrum 375 is ideal for cutting metals with a thickness of up to 3/8”. Though it comes with numerous features, it’s among the most expensive plasma cutters.

What I like about this machine is the automatic pilot arc, which detects when the torch is in contact with the metal. Also, it saves on the energy costs and the time you could have wasted by waiting for the device to cool down when it has overheated.

6.     Vevor Plasma Cutter Dual Voltage Welding Cutting Machine

A quick glance at the features of this welding machine is enough to tell you that it delivers. For any thickness within the range of 6-10mm, Vevor plasma cutter guarantees the finest cut you’ll ever need in your metalwork. If you think you’ll be using it casually as an amateur, don’t be surprised when you wake up feeling like a pro.

Features

·        Duty cycle

For any machine, the duty cycle is determined by amperage and the temperature at the time of use. Vevor boasts a duty cycle of 60% while it is at 30Amps. Therefore, if you need to carry out some continuous tasks, you can go with the 30Amps, which runs at full capacity.

·        Dual voltage

The output voltage is 110/220V. You can connect the machine to any power source within this range, without the need for an adapter.

·        Digital display

The display is located at the front panel of the Vevor plasma cutter. It is at this point that you can control the pressure, current, and temperature. Reading and understanding these aspects is quite easy.

·        Cooling fan

A smaller or lack of a cooling fan will cause any machine to overheat and shut down. For Vevor cutter, there’s no likelihood of the device getting hot because the fan is too big to contain any heat.

Pros

  • It produces the maximum duty cycle when operated under 30Amps
  • Able to cut through metals of up to 16mm
  • Ready to use, with all the necessary power tools included
  • Cooling fan to contain overheating
  • Dual voltage machine
  • A digital display for convenient monitoring of the temperature, current, and pressure.

Cons

  • Assembling this machine is a little bit tricky

Vevor plasma cutter will cut any metal for domestic or industrial services. Although it appears like a welder, it is not anything close to it. However, you can purchase it for all tasks involving plasma cutting.

7.     Hypertherm 088079 Building America Hand Plasma System with Case & 15-Feet Lead

This plasma cutter is great for DIYers who are handling smaller cutting jobs. It is very efficient and easy to use. You don’t have to be an expert in machinery since Hypertherm 088079 is enough to enable you to work like one.

Features

·        Safety first

While you might need to purchase separate protective equipment for most plasma cutters, Hypertherm offers their own. Among them include shaded eye shields and work gloves. As per the guidelines set by OSHA regarding occupational safety, this device is fully compliant.

The machine operates on safe gases, which are neither explosives nor dangerous. Nitrogen and air are the main components of the gas.

·        Automatic voltage technology

This machine has a dual voltage, which automatically adapts to any input power in the range of 120-240V. It also comes with adapter plugs to aid in this.

·        Portability

At just 23 pounds, Hypertherm 088079 is among the few small-sized plasma cutters. It includes a carrying case with a strap for ease of mobility from one working area to another.

·        Duramax LT torch

Regardless of whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this torch is very easy to use. It is also resistant to heat and impact.

·        Continuous pilot arc

The pilot arc will slice through any metal including stainless steel, mild steel, copper, or aluminium. Even if the metal surface is rusty, painted, or corroded, the machine will still deliver fine cuts.

Pros

  • Quite portable and easy to carry around, thanks to the included shoulder straps
  • Works powerfully and would cut a thickness of up to 5/8”
  • Easy to assemble
  • Automatic dual voltage
  • Comes ready to use with personal protective equipment
  • Durable LT torch features a comfortable grip

Cons

  • Requires a separate purchase of an air compressor

Hypertherm 088079 plasma cutter is reliable when your work involves cutting metals less than 5/8”. Such activities include crafting, fabrication, sculpting, home projects, repairs, and maintenance. It works at high speed delivering clean cuts on a vast range of conductive metals.

Do you Really Need a Plasma Cutter?

No matter what type of work you are in, having a plasma cutter in the shop or garage is always handy. Whether you work in maintenance, industrial or are just a do-it-yourselfer, it makes the job of cutting even the toughest metal a whole lot easier.

No longer will other less efficient methods of saws and snips be an issue with these precise and powerful plasma tools. All of the many modern improvements to analog portable plasma cutters have allowed for prices to become more affordable in recent years, giving way for many people to be able to benefit from their many uses.

I have personally experienced the great changes they can bring in my own shop. Again and again, I continue to be amazed by the power and precision of these tools.

Years ago, it was near impossible to find a portable plasma cutter, let alone a cheap plasma cutter. The technology has changed so much, and it will continue to for years to come.

In jobs where previous saws or other cutting torches would’ve stood no chance of getting a solid cut, the plasma cutter has soared beyond expectation every time and been there to deliver the pinpoint precision I’ve come to rely on.

I currently have the Hypertherm Powermax45 XP plasma cutter operating in the shop and routinely make exact cuts at well above 7/8” thick on some metals. Getting the job done quickly has also become much easier without any risk of a sloppy end result or increased danger.

Finding the best plasma cutter in for you is as simple as reading through our plasma cutter reviews.

In my opinion, these machines are above the rest, and here is a list to show just a few of the amazing benefits these machines yield.

Benefits of Using a Plasma Cutter

  1. Cuts nearly all metals including carbon steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, titanium, cobalt, copper, aluminum, magnesium, and cast iron.

Unlike other cutting machines, plasma cutters are able to cut any type of metal. As long as it is able to conduct it can cut, vastly expanding the capabilities of things you can work with.

2. Portable

Generally, most of the machines take a little effort to carry around making their usability better than other high powered cutting machines that will be stuck in the place you set them up at.

Some older versions, while still portable, are on the heavier side, but new technology has allowed for the power and precision to increase while the weight has decreased.

I have never had to worry about one of my machines being too big or too much of a hassle to bring with me to a job that requires its use. As long as there is electric power available, these things will have no problem.

3. Speed/depth

The technology, of using plasma to cut through metals, brings unmatched competition to the world of cutting tools. The extremely high heat that is generated from a stream of ionized gas to form the arc of plasma offers capabilities far beyond anything else that is available.

While it depends on what metal you’re cutting, I’ve seen cuts at above an 1” on some metals, and their speed is far greater than say an ox or fuel cutting machine, greatly increasing your inches per minute.

4. Unmatched precision

Because of the advanced method of using a high temperature ionized stream of gas to form an arc of plasma, the arc forms a sort of cone. This makes it perfect for delivering precision when it is needed.

Sheet metal can easily be cut to form angles or various shapes. This is definitely a bonus for many types of work including artists who all rely on their tools to provide the pinpoint precision that they need to ensure a good end result.etc…

When it comes to cons, there are usually very few, in general. Some people have found the price as their con, but finding a cheap plasma cutter in that still delivers reliable functioning has become easier and easier. That along with getting the correct machine for your specific uses helps to deliver the superior performance I’m sure you will come to love.

In order to help you determine which is the best cutter for you, I have put together a bit of a guide.

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Choosing the Right Plasma Cutter Plasma Cutter

When deciding which is the best plasma cutter for your needs, it can be difficult with all the options that are available. With all that’s out there, if you don’t know what you’re looking for it can be quite confusing and that is why I have decided to use my extensive knowledge with these tools to review some of the best plasma cutters on the market.

Because of the work I’m in, I have had experience with all of the major brands and know exactly what to look for. Whether it’s durability, power, portability or price, there is something that is sure to fit what you are looking for.

So once you’ve finally determined that getting a plasma cutter is right for you there are many things to consider for your specific needs. Price, power, and portability are some of the main things to watch out for when browsing for a new cutter.

Below I have outlined what should be considered:

Pricing

Anytime someone is purchasing a tool, quality should always be a priority. Buying a plasma cutter in can be a rather large investment for some, and because of this, one must be careful not to be tempted into low quality cutters that will just need to be replaced only costing more in the long run.

Of course, you also do not want to overspend when it is not necessary as there are much more affordable options for those not looking to hurt their pocket with extra power and accessories they may not need.

For example, the Lotos LT5000d dual voltage has an average cost around $400 which may be much more reasonable for smaller jobs than spending the $1500 on the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP, which I use in my shop. I personally couldn’t get away with skimping on the cost, as the extra quality is what I rely on to work everyday when I come into my shop.

The power and durability I receive by paying more is, unfortunately, necessary as with most power tools.

For someone who is going to be looking to only cut things like sheet metal, there’s definitely no need to go all out and buy one of the more expensive machines that include many features that you most likely will never need as this is just a waste of money.

A bit of common sense needs to be used when assessing the cost/benefit in terms of your own usage.

Power

Depending on the job you’re doing, different output powers will be needed. For instance, 12 watts of output power may allow you to cut 1/8 in of steel whereas 60 watts of output power may give you 7/8 in of steel cutting power.

There are various charts that can be found all around the internet displaying the exact measurements that can aid in finding just what you need. Getting the correctly powered machine will also help you to not overspend.

Another thing to consider is how often you will be using your machine. In bigger industrial settings where the demands are higher, durability of your tools is a large factor to consider. Of course, when getting a product that will last longer instead of needing to replace it often, the price is sure to be a bit steeper, but will again save you, in the long run.

Another thing to be aware of when buying a plasma cutter is that you will need more than just the cutter to operate them. Most models will need an air compressor. Having a good compressor is essential in the long run if you want your torch to function at peak performance, and drastically impacts the life expectancy of most torches.

If you are entirely new to the world of torching you will also need work gloves and eye protection.

Conclusively, the best plasma cutters are great power tools to have around. No matter what type of work you are in if you have to cut metal these things are my number one recommendation.

The efficiency I have experienced in my workshop as a result of incorporating these has been more than impressive. It feels like the workload has been cut in half as a result of having the best plasma cutters on hand.

So I’m sure by now you are thoroughly convinced that getting a Plasma cutter is right for you and your shop, garage, home…etc. You may also just be looking for a solid plasma cutter. You also know what to look for when buying the best plasma cutter, but even knowing what to look for can be difficult with all that is available.

There are many very good reputable brands that are available such as Hobart, Everlast, Thermal Dynamics..etc so determining what you want can be sort of difficult.

However, with the help of our plasma cutter reviews, finding a cheap plasma cutter that gets the job done will not be hard.

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5 Best Plasma Cutter Reviews

Here is our short reviews of 5 top plasma cutter form different brands.

Lotos LPT500D IGBT Plasma Cutter

Lotos is just now making a name for itself in the industry. This cutter is providing quality cuts at a percentage of what the competitors are charging. It may be confusing to some, as the product does not come with a clear instruction manual, however there are many resources online to learn how to use the machine to its full potential.

>>Click Here to Check Availability and Pricing on Amazon.com<<

Miller’s Spectrum 375 X-TREME

This is one of the best plasma cutters to take into the field with you for many reasons. The first being that it is very lightweight. It can easily be transported by 1 person, compared to heavier cutters that need a few people to carry.

It’s also great because you can easily find consumables for it anywhere and they are cheap.

>>Click Here to Check Availability and Pricing on Amazon.com<<

LONGEVITY Forcecut 40D

The ForceCut is also a great entry level plasma cutter and is also an excellent cutter for those who have been in the industry for years.

It is known for being able to handle very large cuts without lagging and freezing up. This makes it ideal for those who need their big projects done in a timely matter. It is lightweight too.

>>Click Here to Check Availability and Pricing on Amazon.com<<

Final Words

Our guide has covered everything you need to know and all the ins and outs of plasma cutters. By using the information we have provided, you will make an informed buying decision. Make sure to always read reviews and know the products capabilities before purchasing. Nothing is worst than thinking your buying a cutter that cuts one inch metal, but it really only cuts half inch metal. Now is the time to take action and start your search for the best plasma cutter.