A plasma cutter is useful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes.
The operating principles of a plasma cutter are simple.
It uses an inert gas that is blown out at high speed.
With the arc, the torch becomes super hot.
Therefore, the plasma cutter is suitable for cutting a variety of electrically conductive metals.
Here is a useful list of the best affordable plasma cutters you can find on the market.
The list includes something for anyone, so find your top picks and share the list with anyone who you think might find it useful.
Highest Rated Best Affordable Plasma Cutter (by Customer Reviews)
- 1Lotos Technology Non-Touch 50a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
- 2Hobart 50066 Airforce 40i Plasma Cutter
- 3 F2C 50A Plasma Cutter
- 4Super Deal USA Plasma Cutter
- 5Zeny DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
- 6Hobart 500564 Airforce Plasma Cutter
- 7Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 Plasma System
- 8Razorweld JRWPC45LT Plasma Cutter
- 9 Primeweld CT520D Plasma Cutter/Welding Combo
- 10Miller Electric Plasma Cutter
1
Lotos Technology Non-Touch 50a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
The Lotus plasma cutter is best selling cutter and for a reason.
It allows you to cut through rough, painted, and rusted surfaces without any issues.
Also, it doesn’t produce a lot of slags.
Moreover, the Lotus cutter has a handle so you can use it as a portable device, and can be set in a short time.
You can use it for stainless steel, alloy steel, copper, aluminum, mild steel, etc.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- The tip of the cutter doesn’t come in contact with metal
- Durable
- Provides clean cut at maximum 1/2-inch thick
- Dual-voltage enabled
- Portable and easy to use
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Poor customer service
Michael's TakeThe Lotus plasma cutter is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced workers.
It is easy to use and it has an excellent cutting speed.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Hobart 50066 Airforce 40i Plasma Cutter
The Hobart plasma cutter, model 500556 is a heavy-duty device.
It is a more high-end plasma cutter, but the features and quality justify the price.
The maximum cutting of mild steel is 7/8 at a 50% duty cycle.
Next, the plasma cutter works at 240 V and features smart Wind Tunnel Technology that prevents abrasive dust.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Fast cutting speed
- Auto-Refire technology makes it possible to cut through expanded coated or painted metals
- Easy to use and suitable for beginners
- The cutter has wind tunnel technology
- Suitable for heavy-duty tasks
Cons
- Pricey
Michael's TakeIf you want to invest in a heavy-duty plasma cutter, I strongly recommend this Hobart plasma cutter, model 500566.
You can cut a variety of metals with this handy device.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
F2C 50A Plasma Cutter
The F2C 50A Plasma Cutter is quite affordable and has the capabilities and features that can be compared to plenty of more expensive cutters.
Therefore, you can use it even for more heavy-duty tasks.
The maximum cutting thickness available is 1-12mm.
Moreover, this plasma cutter has a duty cycle of 60%, with a maximum efficiency of 85%.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
Durable
Great for a variety of DIY projects
Suitable for professional use
Cons
- Complex user manual
Michael's TakeThe F2C cutter can withstand heavy, everyday use, and professionals can also benefit from this one.
You can rely on this cutter to help you with all cutting tasks once you learn how to use it properly.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Super Deal USA Plasma Cutter
This Super Deal plasma cutter has a high, 60% duty cycle with a maximum efficiency rating of 85%.
Therefore, you can complete a lot of tasks with this cutter.
Moreover, this cutter features a pressure-reducing valve, that allows you to cut down the range to 20 amps.
The Super Deal plasma cutter can cut metal of 1/4-inch thickness easily, and 1/2-inch materials slowly and with more effort.
Drag cutting is especially great with this cutter and easy to achieve.
All you have to do is push the button, and slide the cutter.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Stable performance
- Sturdy iron construction
- Has an easy-to-read digital screen
- Has a built-in overheat protection
- Fast performance
- Inexpensive
Cons
- No hose for regulator
- Switch is placed on the back
Michael's TakeIf you are worried that this affordable cutter might be too good to be true, you will be surprised by its excellent performance, fast operation, and simple controls.
With simple design changes, this cutter can be compared to much more expensive units.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Zeny DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
If you need a 50-amp dual voltage cutter that offers reliable operation and solid performance, I suggest you check this Zeny DC plasma cutter.
The unit can cut of 1/4-inch thick material, with 1/2-inch metals and a bit thicker mild steel.
The amperage range is from 20 to 50 amps, and the duty cycle is 60%.
The device has an excellent start, as well.
Once you learn how to set it correctly and learn how to use it, you expect smooth cuts any time you use it.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Dual voltage
- Lightweight
- Improved cooling methods
- Great for DIY projects
Cons
- Poor customer service
Michael's TakeWithin the price range, you will hardly find a better unit for small home repairs and DIY projects.
For smaller tasks, you can easily compare it with name brand equipment.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
Hobart 500564 Airforce Plasma Cutter
Another Hobart device on this list, model 500564 has a built-in air compressor.
It has a fast operation, and the device cut suitable metals faster than any oxy-fuel.
Moreover, model 500564 provides less warping due to a smaller heat-affected zone.
Also, with this Hobart, the gas pressure settings for flame tuning isn’t required with this device, which makes it easy to use and suitable for beginners.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Precise cuts
- Thin kerf
- Reduced slag
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Suitable for lighter tasks
Michael's TakeThe unit is inexpensive, and with patience, you can achieve great results.
It is easy to use and excellent for all hobbyists.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 Plasma System
The Hypertherm plasma cutter is an excellent professional piece of equipment.
It comes in a sturdy case, and other pieces of protective equipment such as gloves, eye shields, etc.
The unit has an auto-voltage feature that easily adapts to 110V – 240V and comes with a power plug adapter.
Because it has a convenient LT torch, the device provides a comfortable and safe grip from heat-resistant materials.
The amperage rating for this plasma cutter is 30 amps.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Allows thin, detailed metal cutting
- Can withstand impact and high heat
- Comes with great carry case and carry strap for easy portability
- Portable
Cons
- Expensive
Michael's TakeThe Hypertherm cutter can perform as good as some of the leading brand-name cutters on the market, such as Lincoln and Miller.
You can use it daily for a variety of DIY tasks and professional jobs.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Razorweld JRWPC45LT Plasma Cutter
The Razorweld cutter, model JRWPC45LT with 45 amperage rating is a great choice for expert cutters and those who want to improve their skills.
Even though it has advanced features, it is easy to use and has simple controls.
The cutter is lightweight and has a convenient design, that reduces hand fatigue.
Moreover, it has protective 2T/4T features, that protect your hands while working.
The cutting capacity can easily be adjusted to your needs when you change the 20-45 amperage dial.
It is also suitable for on the go welders.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- User-friendly
- Powerful cutter
- Portable
- Suitable for professional use
Cons
- Doesn’t have dual voltage, operates at 220V
Michael's TakeThis Razorweld cutter is portable and small, thus it is suitable for those welders who are always on the go.
Moreover, it has consistent operation ignition that doesn’t affect other electrical devices nearby.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Primeweld CT520D Plasma Cutter/Welding Combo
The PrimeWeld is an excellent 3-in-1 unit, that can replace three machines.
Therefore, it is a space and time-saving option that simplifies your working routine, whether you are professional or hobbyist.
The device has a 60% duty cycle and can be used as DC TIG and DC Stick welder.
The product weighs a little more than 32 pounds and a 3-year warranty.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Efficient
- Versatile
- Suitable for heavy-duty use
- Great for Arc welding
Cons
- Not suitable for aluminium welding
Michael's TakeThis Primeweld machine is an innovative machine that can help you accomplish great results, whether you use it for welding or cutting.
The dual voltage feature is a great plus as well.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Miller Electric Plasma Cutter
The Miller Electric plasma cutter, model 907529 has an amperage rating of 30 amps, and a duty cycle of 35%.
With the cutter, you get an XT30 torch and a heavy-duty work clamp.
You can use it to cut thin sheet metal, as well as thicker truck frames without issues.
Moreover, the product is lightweight, compact, and easy to use.
Therefore, it can help you accomplish a lot of work in less time and with less effort.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Great cutting capacity
- Portable
- Allows precise cutting
- Suitable for even 3/8” thick metals
Cons
- Stiff hose
Michael's TakeIf you are a newbie, you will enjoy using this plasma cutter.
Moreover, if you want to improve your skills and achieve excellent results with different materials, you can rely on this Miller Electric cutter.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Best Affordable Plasma Cutter Buying Guide
If you are deciding on whether to get a plasma cutter, here is a little information about these tools.
First of all, you can perform the plasma cutting process on conductive materials of different types.
Those materials are materials receptive to welding, such as aluminum, stainless steel, mild steel, cast iron, etc.
If you work with a thin metal, you can expect fluid and fast cuts at any time.
Plasma cutters use oxyfuel to perform a clean and precise cut.
Materials such as aluminum or stainless steel are hard to cut without plasma cutters.
Still, the majority of plasma cutters use compressed air, which can be easily found in a variety of local shops.
Plasma Cutters Options for You
There are three categories of plasma cutters you can find on the market at the moment.
Semi-Portable Plasma Cutters
Plasma cutters that weigh less than 100 pounds and can cut up to 1-inch thick metals are considered semi-portable devices.
You can use these units to cut metals indoors and outdoors and for different specific jobs.
Heavy-Duty Plasma Cutters
If you need something powerful to cut 1–inch and 1.5-inch thick materials with ease, I suggest you get some of the heavy-duty plasma cutters available on the market.
You can get a heavy-duty plasma cutter if you don’t have an acetylene torch in your shop or garage.
However, if you plan to work on thin materials, these devices can be too powerful.
Inverter-Type Plasma Cutter
If you get an inverter-type plasma cutter, you can expect more consistency with cutting and fewer maintenance costs.
These devices don’t need repairs, nor they require expensive replacement times.
Imported cutters can get more expensive than domestic units, but the price tag doesn’t always determine the quality.
In general, you can expect a domestic plasma cutter with excellent features to cost as an imported cutter.
Therefore, you can always refer to my list of best plasma cutters on the market, to avoiding paying too much money for an average performance.
How to Choose Best Plasma Cutter?
The plasma cutters come with different duty cycles, and different cleaner cutting experience.
Also, the quality of the features and cutting capability varies.
Power sources are also quite important for future buyers.
First of all, pay attention to your outlets.
The majority of plasma cutters operate at 220/240V outlet, but you can find dual voltage units as well.
They can work on 110V.
When working on 110V, a plasma cutter will have less strength and endurance.
Therefore, think about what you need to accomplish and choose the cutter according to your needs.
If you have difficult tasks, make sure to use a 220V plasma cutter.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle is an important aspect of all cutters and welders as well as amperage ratings.
The majority of devices have the duty cycle and amperage rating listed in the product specifications.
For more industrial use, you shouldn’t set for a device with a cycle of less than 60%.
Amperage rating determines who thick metal you can cut.
The plasma cutters with high amperage ratings can cut through 1/2-inch metals.
On the other hand, if you know for sure that you won’t cut metals thicker than 1/4-inch, you can save some money and get a cutter with lower amperage.
The other option is to get a welder that can perform as a plasma cutter.
A rule of thumb is that devices with amperage ratings of 75 amps can cut up to 3/4-inch thick metals.
The devices of 50 amps of power are suitable for 1/2-inch cuts, and amps are enough for 1/4-inch cuts.
Therefore, every 25 amps allow you to achieve metals thicker for 1/4-inch.
However, if you are cutting 1-inch mild steel, you will have to use an 80-amp plasma cutter.
You can always check detailed technical specifications to see what can you use your plasma cutter for daily.
Start
The best plasma cutters have an alternative to a high-frequency start.
It is especially useful if you have electronic devices nearby.
Plasma Cutter – Price Range
Plasma cutters with higher amperage ratings usually cost more than less powerful devices.
Devices suitable for newbies and small home repairs can cut up to 1/4 inch and cost less than $300.
The cutters within the $300-$400 price range can cut to 1/2-inch metals.
The price range for most powerful cutters suitable for 1-inch thick metals can cost from $1.500 to $2.000.
If you are looking for an affordable option, you can also get multi-process welders for around $400.
Conclusion
A plasma cutter, if chosen correctly can be an excellent investment that can pay for itself in a short time.
There are a variety of models on my list, suitable for both professional and amateurs.
Still, the Lotus Technology Non-Touch 50A Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter is my top pick.
Do you agree with me, or you have other favorites on the market?
