Are you looking for the best plasma cutter for the money?
Fortunately, you have plenty of options to choose from portable plasma cutters to CNC plasma cutters. This welding accessory comes in a wide price range, different capacities, and various qualities to meet the different purposes.
So, before you rush out and buy one it might be worth spending a little time asking yourself a few questions:
- Why do you need a plasma cutter (for a home project, small business, or industrial use)?
- How much thick metal you may need to cut frequently?
- What is your budget to buy a plasm cutter?
Once you have the answers to the questions above, choosing the right unit will be easier and you will be less likely to be disappointed.
However, in this post, I’ve listed 16 best value plasma cutters that are popular in a different category.
I hope, you’ll find the right one to meet your welding project needs.
Let’s get started.
Best Plasma Cutter for the Money- 16 PLASMA CUTTERS BY PURPOSE
These 16 best plasma cutting machines are best in terms of price to quality ratios, user-friendliness, user needs as well as budget.
#1 ZENY CUT-50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter- 50AMP Dual Voltage 110-220V
Specification
- Voltage: 110/220V, 60HZ, 4.8KVA
- Main Fuse: 16/22A
- Current range: 20-50A
- No-load Voltage: 230V
- Duty cycle: 60%;
- Efficiency: 85%
- Insulation class: F
- Protection class: IP21S
- Max cutting thickness: 1-12mm
The ZENY CUT-50 is one of the best plasma cutter for beginners. It is a versatile cutting machine with several notable features and benefits. If you’re new to plasma cutting, ZENY CUT-50 is the best choice. This unit will give you the best start to your welding experience and you can get it for a better price.
Here’s a more detailed look at some of its notable features:
Pilot Arc-Striking System: The presence of a pilot arc-striking system is a valuable feature in this model. It allows the machine to create a high-frequency arc without direct contact with the work piece, which is beneficial when working with rusty, painted, or irregularly shaped materials. This feature aids in easy and consistent arc initiation.
Built-in Over-heat Protection: Overheat protection is a crucial safety feature that helps prevent the machine from overheating during extended use. This features extends the lifespan of the equipment and improve safety in the workplace.
DC Output Digital LCD Display: The digital LCD display provides precise control over the cutting current, which is essential for achieving accurate and clean cuts. It allows you to adjust the settings to match the specific material and thickness being cut.
Dual Voltage 110-220V Compatibility: The ability to operate on both 110V and 220V power sources adds versatility to this unit. Its dual voltage capability makes it suitable for various work environments and locations where different power sources might be available.
Compact Design & Widely Applications: The compact and portable design of the ZENY CUT-50 makes it suitable for use in various applications, especially in locations where space is limited or when you need to move the machine frequently. This portability can be particularly beneficial for on-site work and projects that require mobility.
Widely Applications: The ZENY CUT-50 plasma cutter is perfect to use in various industries and applications, including metal fabrication, automotive repair, HVAC installation, DIY projects, and more. Its ability to cut through a wide range of materials, combined with portability and precise control, makes this model a valuable plasma cutting machine for many professionals and hobbyists.
Pros
- Dual voltage compatibility offers flexibility in power sources.
- Inverter-based technology ensures efficient cutting.
- Portable design makes it suitable for on-site work.
- Precise control with the digital display.
- Versatile for cutting various metals and thicknesses.
- Cost-effective compared to some other cutting methods.
Cons
- Requires an external air compressor, which adds to the setup cost.
- Consumables such as electrodes and nozzles need periodic replacement.
- May not be suitable for heavy industrial use or large-scale projects.
- Some users may find a learning curve when first using a plasma cutter.
#2 Ramsond CUT 50DX Air Plasma Cutter- 50 Amp Digital Inverter Portable Dual Voltage
Specifications:
- Type: Inverter Type
- Voltage: 110V/220V
- Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Amperage: 50 Amps
- Duty Cycle: 60%
- Max Severance Thickness: 1 inch
- Max Cut Thickness: 3/4 inch
- Upgraded German-made cooling system
- High-frequency inverter technology using V-MOSFETs made by TOSHIBA with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)
Ramsond CUT 50DX is one of the best plasma cutter for home use. If you need a plasma cutting machine for some maintenance around your house or need to replace your old mechanical saw, buying this model can be a sound investment.
Here are some key features and benefits of the Ramsond CUT 50DX:
Dual Voltage and Frequency: The ability to switch between 110V and 220V power sources and operate at both 50Hz and 60Hz frequencies makes this plasma cutter versatile and suitable for different working environments.
Integrated Digital Display: The integrated digital display for current (Amps) and pressure gauge provides precise control and monitoring of the cutting process, enhancing accuracy and efficiency.
60% Duty Cycle: This duty cycle is quite good for a portable plasma cutter in this class, allowing for longer periods of continuous use without overheating.
Cutting Capacities: The Ramsond CUT 50DX can handle a maximum severance thickness of 1 inch and a maximum cut thickness of 3/4 inch, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
Upgraded Cooling System: The upgraded German-made cooling system helps prevent overheating during extended use, improving the durability and reliability of the machine.
High-Frequency Inverter Technology: The use of high-frequency inverter technology, along with V-MOSFETs and PWM, ensures cleaner and more uniform cuts on various surfaces and materials.
Foldable Handle: The foldable handle adds to its portability and ease of storage, making it convenient to transport to job sites.
Pros:
- Dual Voltage capability offers flexibility for different working environments.
- Utilizes inverter technology for efficiency and precision in cutting applications.
- Displays current (Amps) and pressure gauge for precise control and monitoring.
- Perfect for longer periods of continuous use without overheating.
- Versatile cutting capacities
- Enhanced portability and storage convenience.
- German-made cooling system prevents overheating during extended use.
- Delivers cleaner and more uniform cuts on various surfaces and materials.
Cons:
- May be relatively expensive compared to some other plasma cutters with similar features.
- Some users might find it heavy, especially when transporting it to different locations.
- Requires consumables like electrodes and nozzles, adding to operating costs over time.
- The maximum severance thickness of 1 inch may not be sufficient for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
#3 LOTOS LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter-Dual Voltage 110V/220V, 1/2 Inch Clean Cut
Specifications
- Amperage: 50A
- Pilot Arc Type: Non-Touch
- Dual Voltage: 110V/220V
- Maximum Clean Cut Thickness: 1/2 inch (approximately 12.7mm)
- Air: Non-hazardous compressed air
- Safety: Designed for safe operation
The Lotos Technology LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter is indeed a popular choice among users, particularly in the DIY and small-scale metalworking communities. It is one of the best pilot arc plasma cutters available on the market. It offers a good balance between price and performance, making it accessible to hobbyists and small businesses.
Here’s a breakdown of its key features and components:
50Amp Plasma Cutter: This refers to the maximum cutting capacity of the machine. It can cut materials up to 1/2 inch thick.
Dual Voltage 110V/220V: The cutter is designed to work with both 110V and 220V power sources, making it adaptable to different electrical setups.
1/2 Inch Clean Cut: The Lotos LTP5000D is capable of making clean cuts up to a maximum thickness of 1/2 inch (approximately 12.7mm) when working with metals.
Non-Touch Pilot Arc: This feature allows the plasma cutter to create an arc without physically touching the workpiece. It’s particularly useful for cutting rusty or painted surfaces. The pilot arc technology ensures a stable and reliable cutting arc, even in challenging conditions.
Utilizes Non-Hazardous Compressed Air: Instead of using flammable gases, this plasma cutter uses non-hazardous compressed air for the cutting process, which is safer and more convenient.
Front-Mounted Regulator: The regulator for controlling air pressure is located on the front of the machine for easy access and adjustment.
Safe and Low-Cost: The use of compressed air and the non-touch pilot arc make this plasma cutter a safer and more cost-effective option for metal cutting.
Easy Setup within 1 Minute: You can set up the machine quickly, typically within one minute.
Package Inclusions:
The package includes various components necessary for set up and operation:
- Power supply
- Plasma cutting torch
- Ground clamp
- Pre-installed NPT 1/4” industry-type D plug
- Air filter regulator
- 1/4″ industry-type D plug
- Consumables (likely including electrodes and nozzles)
- Instruction Manual
Best Cheapest Plasma Cutter
#4 DNYKER ARC-160 Plasma Cutter- Dual Voltage 110V/220V, Portable, IGBT Digital Display LCD Screen and Accessories Tools, Multipurpose
DNYKER ARC-160 is one of the cheapest plasma cutters available. It is a very basic unit that is more than satisfactory for any home or DIY enthusiast. Keep in mind that you won’t get a lot of advanced features from this unit. But for home DIY jobs and light-duty work, ARC-160 will work well without breaking the budget.
Best Plasma Cutter Under 300
#5 TOOLIOM TL-50C 50A Non-Touch Pilot ARC Air Plasma Cutter- Dual Voltage IGBT Inverter 1/2″ Clean Cut
If you’re a DIY enthusiast and need a plasma cutter to only use it occasionally, an inexpensive plasma cutter is perfect for you. There are lots of cost-effective units that will do the job. However, if you’re looking for a decent unit under 300, then don’t miss TOOLIOM TL-50C plasma cutter. It comes with all the necessary features for plasma cutting at an affordable price.
Best Plasma Cutter Under 500
#6 Forney Easy Weld 251 20 P Plasma Cutter- Green, 20 Amp
Forney Easy Weld 251 is one of the best plasma cutters under $500. If you don’t plan to spend a hefty amount for a professional-grade plasma cutter, but still need a decent unit for smaller projects, Easy weld 251 might be enough to meet your needs. This unit provides a good level of quality and performance which is right for professional work.
Best Plasma Cutter Under $1000
#7 PRIMEWELD CUT60 60Amp Plasma Cutter-Non-Touch Pilot Arc PT60 Torch 110V/220V Dual Voltage 3 Year Warranty
PRIMEWELD CUT60 is a premium-grade plasma cutter under 1000. The unit is lightweight, portable, and comes with several impressive features. It is a user-friendly machine that doesn’t require any experience or special skills to operate.
Best plasma cutter under 1500
#8 Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP- America Edition Hand Plasma System with Case and 15-Feet Lead
If you expand your budget around 1500, you may get a top-perform unit. The model I recommend is Hypertherm plasma cutter Powermax30 XP which is high in cut quality and build quality.
Best Plasma Cutter With Built-In Compressor
#9 Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter- Built-In Air Compressor, 120V
A plasma cutter with a built-in air compressor is a game-changer when it comes to purchasing the best plasma cutter for a small shop. Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci is one of the best units in this category. Although it is a light-duty plasma cutting machine, it comes with some advanced professional features.
Best plasma cutter for metal art
#10 Miller Electric 907529 Plasma Cutter, Inverter, Spectrum 375
If you are a metal artist or someone who enjoys making creative projects with metal, Miller Spectrum 375 is a cool tool for you. Making precise, clean cuts for metal art using this unit will be easier than ever.
Best air inverter plasma cutter
#11 LOTOS LT5000D 50A Air Inverter Plasma Cutter- Dual Voltage 110/220VAC 1/2″ Clean Cut
Compare with the oxyhydrogen cutter, the air inverter plasma cutter is much more safe, quick, low cost, and easy to use. LOTOS LT5000D combines precision cuts and high speed with low cost.
Best multi-process welder with plasma cutter
If your metal project requires you to cut and weld, then a multi-process welder with plasma cutter may be what you’re looking for.
#12 PrimeWeld CT-520D- 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder, and 200 Amp Stick Welder
#13 LOTOS LTPDC2000D- Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Tig Welder and Stick Welder 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine,½ Inch Clean Cut
Best Portable Plasma Cutter
#14 Display4top CUT-50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter-110/220V Dual Voltage Compact Metal Cutting Machine
Among all the handheld plasma cutting systems, Display4top CUT-50 is worth considering for a truly portable unit. This compact and lightweight unit is easy and convenient for you to carry far away and long-term work.
Best CNC compatible plasma cutter
#15 Everlast 2021 PowerPlasma 82i 80 Amp CNC compatible plasma cutter
CNC-compatible plasma cutter is one of the coolest tools you can have in your garage to help your business grow. If you’re looking for a plasma cutting machine designed to work with your CNC tables, 2021 PowerPlasma 82i is by far the best choice.
Best plasma cutter for auto bodywork
#16 ZS- MICTEK Air Plasma Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter- Non-Touch 50 AMP 110/220V
(1/2” Clean Cut, Max Cutting 3/5” IGBT High-Frequency Inverter Plasma Cutting Machine for Car Frame, Copper Alloy Mild Steel Aluminum)
If you are an auto mechanic or your vehicle repair works require you to cut metal every so often, ZS- MICTEK plasma cutter is by far the best for that job.
I’m Ivan D. Mitchell. I’m the Chief Engineer, Manufacturing Engineering Tool and Launch, specialising in automotive equipment design and build which meets World Class Manufacturing methodology. I have 15 years of work experience as a Tooling Specialist on some of the leading automotive manufacturing companies. When I launched this site, I wanted to create a platform where you’ll get everything about tools in one place. I also wanted to share my experience in the tool industry. I’ll do my best to share the information you need to truly make your tool using experience better. I hope you find our guides, reviews, information HELPFUL. If you have any inquiries, I’m always here to help you.