Best Plasma Cutter For Perfect Cuts Every Time!
Plasma cutting technology has finally become affordable for home users and small workshops. You can cut through electrically conductive materials easily and effectively with the use of the right plasma cutter, and today we’ll help you choose the best plasma cutter for your needs. So let’s have a look at the alternatives:
Our Recommended Plasma Cutters
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | LOTOS LTP5000D 50Amp Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V/220V | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Everlast PowerPro 164Si 40Amp Plasma Cutter 110v/220v | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Hypertherm Powermax30 XP Plasma System with Case | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | PRIMEWELD CUT60 60Amp Plasma Cutter 110V/220V | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Hobart – 500575 AirForce 27i Plasma Cutter | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Ramsond CUT 50DX 50 Amp Portable Air Plasma Cutter | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | APC-70HF, Professional 70 Amp Plasma Cutter | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Miller Electric 907529 Plasma Cutter, Inverter, Spectrum 375 | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | YESWELDER CUT-55DS, 55 Amp Plasma Cutter | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 27th September 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to use a Plasma Cutter? Safety equipment to start with.
- Protective equipment is a must when it comes to plasma cutting.
- It would be best if you had your eyes protected while operating the machine, and you should invest in safety glasses, a hand shield, and a helmet to protect your head.
- The fumes and gases produced during cutting are toxic, and it is vital to get a respiratory mask for lung protection.
- Your arms and body need to be covered as the arc that plasma cutters produce can burn your unprotected skin, so gloves and rubber boots are standard safety measures.
- Last but not least, ear muffs for ear protection are vital in production environments.
Are you looking for a plasma cutter for CNC cutting machines?
There are plenty of models to choose from, ranging from 30A all the way to 1000A cutting power. Some models offer height control, but you can manually adjust the height after each cut in lower-priced models. These lower-cost alternatives may not have a brain to control the system and rely on your laptop and software to control the machine.
If you are a hobbyist, then they are a good choice. Still, if you need to work in a professional environment, you will have to look for more robust choices that can withstand longer operation times in a busy production environment. Keep in mind that the higher-end machines will have a great interface, possibly with a touchscreen to allow access to the software instead of relying on a keyboard and mouse.
If you plan to install a plasma cutter on a CNC table for precise cuts, make sure you pick a model that is designed for heavy-duty use and can cut through the material of your choice easily. Look for models of 50-65A and up, ideally 100A as a powerful machine is needed for heavy fabrication duties. There are many different tables on the market, but it’s advisable to pick a CNC table for your plasma cutter that is automatically raised/lowered in the water.
A high-precision plasma cutter has to concentrate arc energy into a tiny area for sharp cuts. It is vital to control height as accurately as possible and keep the nozzle at the correct distance through the electrode’s life. If you are looking for accuracy above all, then automatic software will maximize material usage.
What to consider when looking for the best plasma cutter?
Our buying guide will help you choose a plasma cutter for your needs without breaking the bank. If you feel like taking your tools from job to job or like the extra portability, it may be worth looking for a portable plasma cutter. A lightweight design will help you transport it when necessary and be flexible while working in your workshop.
Professional cutters may require a duty cycle above 50%, while for hobbyists, 35% can be an affordable alternative without breaking the bank. These effects also your cutting speeds, so if you are a professional, you have to look for a model with 75 psi pressure or more to be able to work speedy and steady.
Most plasma cutters will offer 30 amp at 110 volts or 50amo at 220 volts, so pick a suitable cutter for your outlet. Look for cutters with good cooling mechanisms as a good cooling system will prevent dust and dirt from damaging the unit while also prolonging its life. It may be expensive at first but invest in a good quality plasma cutter from a reputable brand to avoid any issues for the years to come.
It would be best if you kept in mind that air pressure plays a vital role in plasma operations as too much air can blow out the plasma, while on the other hand, not enough air will not help you cut anything. When setting up your plasma cutter, it is vital to consult the manufacturer’s manual to ensure proper operation by checking the plasma cutter air requirements. Moreover, good ground is also important for your safety while cutting, especially on larger objects.
Before choosing a model, it is vital to ask yourself, “what is the maximum thickness you might cut?” as the plasma cutter voltage and amperage will determine the maximum thickness you can cut together with your cuts’ speed. Most manufacturers provide cutting speed charts that can help you decide on the more suitable model for your everyday cutting jobs.
A built-in air compressor will help you be portable as they typically only run on 220v. Keep in mind that the plasma cutters with built-in compressors can only cut for the duration the compressor provides air supply. The most common models on the market are inverter-based as they are meant to be lightweight for improved portability while also having enough power to cut through 1/2inch materials.
How to choose a plasma cutter:
There are plenty of models to choose from, starting at around $300 and can get quite pricey, which plasma cutters cost up to $2000. Keep in mind the pricier models offer some features like automatic air and amperage adjustments or greater ergonomic design, which can be quite handy, and you might want to consider extending your initial budget to invest in a machine that suits your needs.
Often the cheaper models tend to end up pricier to maintain after some time, or even buy a replacement unit or upgrade in the future. A good budget for anyone who doesn’t plan to work on cutting professionals should be set at around $400-500 for the entry-level models.
You will have to compromise the cutting capacity or user-friendliness of the models, but still, they will get the job done and be worth every penny.
If you plan on working on metal professionally or want to take your projects to the next level, models ranging from around $1000-1300 can provide enough power and cutting capacity for larger projects.
They are ideal for professionals that need to work with galvanized steel, aluminum and get clean cuts. Take into consideration your everyday needs and possible future projects when deciding on your machine’s cutting power.
Keep in mind that most models in the market are designed to be used on 220V. If you find yourself working outside your workspace a lot, you may want to look at machines that work both on 110V and 220V and probably go for models that come with a long hose for extra maneuverability.
Which brands to look for?
You must pick a model from the current product line instead of a used one if you need to find spare parts available for future maintenance. Some of the best brands:
Lotos: They are a well-known brand that makes the most popular plasma cutters and welders on the market. They are known for their great after-sales service, and their models are some of the more affordable ones in the market.
Hobart: Another well-known manufacturer that stood the test of time and still provides us with excellent machines. They even have a forum where you can find many answers to your questions.
Hypertherm: With more than 50 years of experience and a global network of partners in 93 countries, you can rely on them for your next purchase.
Other brands worth checking out are Thermal Dynamics, Eastwood, Everlast, Boc, Lincoln, Miller, and Unimig.