Best Plasma Cutters With Built In Compressors 2020 [Buying Guide]

We bet you can think of dozens of DIY projects where you have felt the need for one of the best plasma cutters with built in air compressors! And we are never wrong when it comes to answering the needs of our readers especially when talk of tools reach our ears!

Plasma cutters and air compressors are different devices that also vary in working and benefits. However, there are some situations where you need both to accomplish the task. Carrying both machines at a time is quite difficult while storing them is another big problem.

In such a situation, a plasma cutter with a built in an air compressor is the most convenient option.

Basically, a plasma cutter is a device that cuts metal or any hard material with great precision without touching the arc. The temperature in a plasma cutter can reach up to 40, 000 Fahrenheit that quickly melts the material and helps you convert it in your desired shape. That’s why it’s known as a cutter.

Some Really Cool Perks of Plasma Cutters with Built In Air Compressors!

A plasma cutter needs an air compressor to complete a two-step process. In the first, the temperature of the arc increases that melts the material and converts it into semi-gaseous form. In the second step, you need an air compressor to remove the plasma and give a clean cut to the material. It means you can’t work efficiently without an air compressor. A plasma cutter with a compressor is a smart way of work where you can perform both tasks with one device.

No need to carry two separate devices and spare extra space for their storage. Keep them properly and conveniently. The compressor makes the device portable and allows you to take it with you during travel. Moreover, you don’t have to use two power supplies for two different machines rather the process gets simple and eliminates the need for the second device.

There is no difference in the cutting of a built-in plasma cutter and a separate air compressor. If you are using the same output amps, then there would be no difference in the end results.

Drawbacks of the Tool!

There are no major downsides of a plasma cutter that come with an air compressor other than a high price. But, the benefits and comforts you get from it, justify the price tag.

Guys, it’s convenient and reliable, need we say anything else to prove it to be quite a useful tool? You can move it from place to place to place which is quite difficult with separate devices.

Machines that come with air compressors have low output. Consider the output of the plasma cutter carefully before buying it and avoid purchasing a machine with a poor output. The reason for low output is due to the power division as the machine is drawing power for two components.

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Features to Look First In The Plasma Cutters

When you are investing money in a machine, you definitely want to enjoy and utilize all features of that machine. Here are some basic features you should consider when buying a product.

Power Delivery

The power of the plasma cutter depends on the task you want to do with it. If you are intended to do small tasks, then the low-powered machine is good for you. However, a low-powered machine won’t work for bigger tasks such as cutting a thick metal or removing hard material from iron. If you want to do both types of jobs with it, then opt for the machine with greater power.

There are two types of plasma cutters available in the market when you categorize them on the basis of power. The lightweight 120V machine produces 15amps of power while the 240V plasma cutter is capable of giving 30 amps output. If you don’t have budget constraints, then choose a 240V plasma cutter to enjoy more flexibility.

Duty Cycle Rating

The duty cycle is another important feature that you shouldn’t ignore as it also determines the efficiency of the plasma cutter. Professional and domestic usage plasma cutters have different life cycles. Professional cutters give better output while the latter type takes more time to start and give modest duty cycles. The lowest life-cycles you can get are 35 percent duty cycle at 15 amps while the 50 percent life duty cycles are the maximum duty cycles at 12 amps.

To make the best use of the plasma cutter, never use it continuously over three minutes as it will affect the efficiency of the internal parts. Give it some rest after every cut or it won’t give 100% output after some time in otherwise.

Check Advanced Features

Nowadays, advanced features are embedded in every plasma cutter. They are helpful to reduce human error and give you the best performance. Whenever you buy a plasma cutter, check advanced features opt for the one which is precise and gives you accurate cutting.

One of the best features of the plasma cutter is its compact size and lightweight. Lightweight plasma cutters are portable and easy to move from one place to another. You don’t even have to compromise over the power and power of the plasma cutter.

The advanced plasma cutters have automatic settings that eliminate the issues used to happen due to the manual settings. Moreover, they come with a smart sensor that senses the type of metal and adjusts pressure and temperature according to it.

Another amazing feature added to the advanced plasma cutters is the drag-cutting technology that lets you cut the metal without any delay.

Comfort and Ease

Comfort and ease should be your top priorities. Without the convenience factor, neither will you enjoy your work nor would be able to explore all features of the plasma cutter. Prefer a torch led that has a minimum length of 12 feet. Otherwise, it would be very difficult for you to work comfortably. Similarly, never try to use a 120V cutter for a task that requires a 240V cutter.

Don’t forget to check the accessories of a plasma cutter. They are very helpful for the work and lets you work comfortably. The most common types of accessories you get with a plasma cutter include retaining caps, electrodes, nozzles, and shields.

Top 11 Best Plasma Cutters with Built In Compressors

After reading the important features and details of the plasma cutters, we are going to share the list of the tools with its reviews, pros & cons so you can know which one you should go for.

Without further ado, let’s start it.

	Product Names	Cutting Capacity	Voltage Range
1	Lotos LTP5000D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter	3/4 Inch	110/120 & 220/240v
2	Hypertherm 088096 Powermax30 Plasma System	5/8 Inch	120/240v
3	LOTOS LT5000D Plasma Cutter	3/4 Inch	110/120 & 220/240v
4	HeroCut HC7000 CNC Plasma Cutter	25mm	220v
5	Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter	1/4 Inch	110/120v
6	SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Air Plasma Cutter	3/4 Inch	110/220v
7	Forney Easy Weld 251 20P Plasma Cutter	1/4 Inch	120v
8	PrimeWeld 50A Rugged Plasma Cutter Kit	3/4 Inch	110/220v
9	Klutch P12AFi Plasma Cutter	3/16	120v
10	HITBOX HBC5500 50Amp Plasma Cutter	16mm	220v

1. Lotos LTP5000D Dual Voltage Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter

We call it the creamy & delicious froth that sits perfectly on an ice-cream cone!

Now that we have your attention, our first product on the list is Lotos LTP5000D. Known for its high power and amazing performance it is quite easy to use due to the non-touch pilot arc that takes no time to remove rust and paint. You can easily cut the toughest metal with great precision.

The powerful arc of the plasma cutter produces minimum slag which means you don’t worry about the cleaning of the waste material. The use of the plasma cutter is quite safe as you can cut the metal without cutting the tip of the metal. Moreover, it comes with a sturdy handle that allows you to carry the plasma cutter and move from one place to another.

The use of non-hazardous compressed air in the plasma cutter lets you cut steel and metals as per your needs. Another great feature of the plasma cutter is its easy setup which means it gets ready within a minute and you can use it with great ease and flexibility. The features of the plasma cutter are suitable for cutting aluminum, steel, copper, and a number of different metals.

 

2. Hypertherm 088096 Powermax30 AIR Hand Plasma System

Powermax30 Plasma System is one of the most recommended products. You can use it anywhere and no need to use any additional air compressor as the built-in plasma cutter is very efficient and lets you complete quite efficiently. The powerful plasma cutter is capable of cutting thick slab sheets with the thickness up to 5/8 inch. The clean cuts are perfect for decoration pieces and can be used for multiple purposes.

Its design is simple and compact. You can carry and move it easily and enjoy all features of the plasma cutters with great ease. Due to the lightweight of the machine, you can store it easily and even keep it in your car’s trunk. As high-quality material is used in the construction of the plasma cutter, you don’t have to worry about the rust and damage of the air compressor. The durable material withstands the toughest environment and lasts for decades.

The fast cutting speed and accurate cuts make work an enjoyable task. You never get tired due to the extensive physical energy while the energy consumption of the plasma cutter is also very low. Unlike other plasma cutters, Hypertherm Powermax doesn’t need secondary operations as it gives the perfect cuts in the first operation.

Though the air hand system is good for both professional and personal tasks, it’s not designed for regular use. The excessive use of the air compressor affects the internal valve and reduces the performance of the machine.

 

3. LOTOS LT5000D 50A Air Inverter Plasma Cutter

If you want to buy an air compressor for your DIY tasks or small projects, then the LOTOS LT500D is one of the best for the job. It’s an affordable option that never cracks your coffers and gives you amazing features within your budget limit. The efficient plasma cutter accurately cuts metal, steel, aluminum, mild alloy, and copper.

The compact design of the plasma cutter makes it portable and easy to use. It comes with a durable handle that allows you to carry it easily. Due to the lightweight of the plasma cutter, you can hold it for a longer time. If talking about the performance of the plasma cutter, it’s very reliable and takes just one minute to setup.

The dual voltage of the plasma cutter proves it a versatile machine. It gives 10-20 A DC output under 220/240V and allows you to cut ½” metal piece. When you connect it with 110/120V, it produces 10-35 A DC output and can easily clean-cut a metal of thickness ⅓’.

An advanced cooling system is embedded in it that keeps controls the temperature and never let it exceed from a certain level. Due to this system, the plasma cutter works smoothly and gives an excellent performance to the user.

The 22.5 pounds plasma cutter comes with multiple accessories such as a plasma cutter torch, ground cable, power supply, and an air filter regulator.

 

4. HeroCut HC7000 220v CNC Plasma Cutter

The next product on our list is the blow-back non-HF plasma cutter that can clean-cut a thickness of 18mm of metal. The 70Amps heavy-duty plasma cutter comes with a non-touch blow back-arc that eliminates the need for touching the material with hand. The non-touch non-HF blowback plasma cutter is safe to use. You don’t have to worry about the hand burn or current.

The required input voltage of the plasma cutter is 220V while the max cutting thickness of the plasma cutter is 25mm. The use of the machine is also very easy as it takes just 10 seconds to get started. An air filter regulator is present at the back of the plasma cutter that lets you connect it with the air compressor.

A non-HF arc starting torch makes its use safe while the safe center plug prevents any accident happens due to the short circuit or voltage fluctuation. Dry air is used in the plasma cutter to cut the metal that lets you increase the cutting thickness of the metal. The use of dry air also prevents short circuits in the plasma cutter.

The smart plasma cutter can easily cut steel, aluminum, copper, and all sorts of hard metals. Never try to cut plastic or wood with it as it’s not designed for this purpose. 60L is modest tank storage which makes it a good option for taking it with you on different journeys.

 

5. Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor

Hobert airforce 12ci plasma cutter is known for its powerful products and you simply can’t ignore its collection when it comes to the pneumatic machines. Hobert should be your first choice when you plan to buy an air compressor. However, it’s plasma cutters will also not disappoint you especially when you are intended to do small tasks with it.

The powerful plasma cutter is capable of cutting metals faster than oxy-fuel. It saves your time, energy, and money. The price of the plasma cutter is also very reasonable and you don’t even need manual flame turning and gas pressure settings for the plasma cutter. The built-in air compressor eliminates the need for an additional air compressor and lets you take it with you anywhere.

Unlike many other low-quality plasma cutters, the Hobart 12ci product is simple and efficient in working. It easily cuts different materials and produces less slag. No need to worry about the mess and cleaning it up. Moreover, the chances of wrong cutting are absolutely zero and you can use it as per your needs with great comfort and ease.

There are also some downsides of the plasma cutter as well. For instance, it’s not a dual voltage air compressor and works on a single input voltage 110/120V only. The maximum cutting thickness is also very less (¼”) which makes it a bad option for materials that need deep cuts. The length of the torc lead is also 12feet only that often trigger issues in the usage of the outdoor projects.

 

6. SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Air Plasma Cutter Portable Machine

SungoldPower is simple to operate and smart to use a plasma cutter. It can easily cut materials of different thickness while the super-fast cutting speed impresses every user. Due to the fast speed, you can perform every task quickly and save your time and energy. The materials you can cut with this plasma cutter include carbon steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.

No matter what type of material you are trying to cut, it works efficiently. Its powerful plasma can pass through the rough surfaces and rusty areas which seem very difficult to handle. Another good feature of this plasma cutter is the minimum slag production that reduces cleaning efforts and lets you work in a welcoming environment.

It comes with a digital LCD screen that exhibits the DC output of the plasma cutter while front panel air pressure gauge and IGBT inverter are some other innovative functions you get with it. The smart plasma cutter never disappoints you when you consider the portability of the plasma cutter. It weighs only 23.8 pounds that makes it carry and move easily from one place to another.

Dual plugs are embedded in the plasma cutter. One plug is used for USA 220v and the second plug for USA 110v. The safety of the users is also the top priority of the SungoldPower. The plasma cutter has built-in overheat protection, under-voltage protection, and over-voltage protection. It automatically controls the temperature of the plasma cutter and protects the internal parts.

 

7. Forney Easy Weld 251 20P Plasma Cutter

Forney 317 air compressor is another good option for people looking for the best product that has already an air compressor. The drag touch technology makes the use of the air compressor safe and effective. All you have to do is to move the torch directly onto the surface of the material to get the precise cuts.

Thermal arc overload protection ensures the safety of the plasma cutter as well as the person operating the machine. The improves design of the machine proves it a portable and easy to store machine. High duty cycle and cutting capacity are distinguishing features of the plasma cutter which are very helpful for plumbers, carpenters, and HVAC experts.

The versatile plasma cutter is generator friendly while the 15’ power cable lets you use it for outdoor projects where you need long wire to reach the machine. The applications of the plasma cutter are also countless. For instance, you can use it for sheet metal to plate cutting, plumbing, contractors’ projects, and HVAC.

Among the several benefits of the plasma cutter, a single voltage is a major drawback that triggers issues for users when they need a more powerful machine. Moreover, amperage capacity is also another issue that is just 15amps, much low than the competitors.

 

8. PrimeWeld 50A Premium and Rugged Plasma Cutter Kit

PrimeWeld is always known for its premium quality and highly reliable products. This plasma cutter is also one of the toughest plasma cutters you will find in the market. It’s made of steel and easily be used in different environments.

Such tools usually come with huge price ranges, but the case is quite different with the PrimeWeld 50A air inverter as its price is quite affordable and everyone can afford it.

It’s a dual voltage air compressor that requires minimum maintenance and less cleaning. The optimized design of the air compressor gives you amazing output while the user-friendly handle of the air compressor makes it use very easy for the buyer. The smart plasma cutter can easily cut steel, aluminum, copper, and all sorts of hard metals. Never try to cut plastic or wood with it as it’s not designed for this purpose.

You get a 3-years warranty with the plasma cutter that means your money is safe and you can return the machine if you aren’t satisfied with the overall performance. he machine gives 100% safety against over current and voltage fluctuation. The output of the plasma cutter ranges between 10-50A that is very modest compared to the competitors.

 

9. Klutch P12AFi Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor

This plasma cutter comes with a built-in piston air compressor that implies you don’t need any additional air compressor. It doesn’t require any additional gases and external air source for operation. All you need to do is to plug it in a socket and pick up the torch that needs just a few seconds to heat up.

Unlike the traditional plasma cutters, it uses inverter power technology that doesn’t need a high input power. That’s why it’s known as an energy-efficient plasma cutter. The lightweight of the machine is another distinguishing feature that makes it easy to transport and carry. You never find any issue on the mobility and portability of the machine while carrying it is also an effortless task.

This model is capable of cutting mild steel up to 1/8 inch while the severance thickness of the material is 3/16 inches. The performance of the plasma cutter is quite satisfactory and it does its job very quickly.

It’s sturdy and efficient as constructed with durable material that never damages easily. You don’t have to worry about the working of the internal parts as dust and water can’t enter into the plasma cutter and never affect the overall performance.

There is also one drawback of the plasma cutter that makes it a bad choice and that is the low cutting capacity. Moreover, the output power is also below the average. However, the low price of the plasma cutter justice its features as they are enough in this budget limit.

 

10. HITBOX HBC5500 50 Amp IGBT Plasma Cutting Machine

HITBOX 50A plasma cutter gives outstanding performance and popular for its high durability and flexibility. It never damages easily and capable of working in all sorts of environments. As a sturdy material is used in the construction of the plasma cutter, it withstands tough situations and never rusts outs easily.

The maximum cutting thickness of the plasma cutter is 16mm while it can clean-cut 12mm of thick surfaces. You never face any issue in cutting and work efficiently as per your needs. It also never creates any debris and slug which sometimes spread all over the project area and gives a messy room to your work environment.

This versatile plasma cutter is a great option for cutting different types of materials including stainless steel, aluminum, copper, alloy steel, and galvanized pipe. No need to install an air pressure with it as it comes with an air pressure regulator and lets you work immediately without the need for an external air compressor.

The portable handles and LCD digital screen are some other useful features that make the work an effortless task for you. The machine gives 100% safety against over current and voltage fluctuation. Whether the voltage level increases or decreases, it automatically shuts down and stays safe from any damage.

The price of the plasma cutter is also very reasonable which makes it a great option for people having a low budget limit, but they want a reliable product. It is very compatible with high-quality products and can be used with advanced products. You can increase the productivity of the plasma cutter up to 40% by using it rightly while you also get a one-year warranty with it.

 

11. HeroCut HC3500 Plasma Cutter With Built In Compressor

Bringing down to the last product in the list, the HeroCut HC3500 Plasma Cutter with Built-in Air Compressor.

It’s a good option for professionals and DIYers. The plasma cutter comes with a 5m long torch lead and ha a 220V input voltage. It’s lightweight and weighs only 20kgs that is easy to carry and move from place to place. The smart plasma cutter can clean-cut a thickness of 14mm of metal.

The heavy-duty plasma cutter comes with a non-touch blow back-arc that eliminates the need for touching the material with hand. The non-touch non-HF blowback plasma cutter is safe to use. You don’t have to worry about the hand burn or current. The use of the machine is also very easy as it takes just 10 seconds to get started.

The cutting speed of the plasma cutter is also amazing that is 150mm/min while an earth cable is also included in it which length is up to 3 meters. A non-HF arc starting torch makes its use safe while the safe center plug prevents any accident happens due to the short circuit or voltage fluctuation.

Multiple accessories are included in the box which is very helpful for the task. You get an air regulator installed in it, 5 tips, a 5-meter long earth cable, 5 electrodes, and a manual in the box. Dry air is used in the plasma cutter to cut the metal that lets you increase the cutting thickness of the metal. The use of dry air also prevents short circuits in the plasma cutter.

The smart plasma cutter can easily cut steel, aluminum, copper, and all sorts of hard metals. Never try to cut plastic or wood with it as it’s not designed for this purpose. The only drawback of the plasma cutter is the excess weight which is though easy to carry but more than the competitors.

 

Last update on 2023-06-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Final Words

We have reached the end of the blog and tried our best to provide you a comprehensive buying guide about the power tools available in the market. Almost all of the companies into the list give warranty for their products while they also provide you complete guidance about the usage and safety of the tools. It’s good to buy a portable plasma cutter that is easy to carry and can be moved from one place to another without any issue.

You must know that plasma cutters are designed to cut metals that can conduct electricity. Don’t use it for cutting wood and plastic as it’s not designed for this purpose. Using a tool for something for it’s not made for reduces the lifespan and affects the performance of the tool. The thickness of the metal depends on the power of the plasma cutter. Avoid using a low-powered plasma cutter for the tasks which require high powered plasma cutters. To check this information, always read the description of the machine and check all attributes carefully.