Favorable price, product quality, ease of use, durability, and maintenance cost are key factors to keep in mind when selecting a plasma cutter. So how should you choose a plasma
cutter that will best suit your needs? We will introduce you to 4 great options
with the above aspects.
What is a plasma cutting machine?
Plasma cutting is a processing method that uses the heat of a high-temperature plasma arc to partially melt (and evaporate) metal at the incision of the workpiece, and uses the momentum of the high-speed plasma to remove the molten metal to form an incision.
The plasma cutting machine with different working gases can cut all kinds of metals that are difficult to cut with oxygen. Especially for non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper, titanium, nickel), the cutting effect is better; its main advantage is that the plasma cutting speed is fast when the thickness of the metal is not large.
How to choose a plasma cutting machine?
Below is a quick comparison of the 4 top products we selected based on parameters, reviews, and professional evaluations. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose a plasma cutter.
Brand | VEVOR | LOTOS | TOOLIOM | S7 |
Model | VV-PC-CUT50P | LTP5000D | TL-50C | JH-1(2) |
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Parameter | ● Input Voltage:AC110/220V±10% ● Output Current:110V:20-40A;220V:20-50A ● Cutting Material: Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Mild Steel, Copper ● Duty Cycle:30%@104°F, 50A;60%@104°F, 33A;100%@104°F, 25A ● Operating Air Pressure:Less Than 0.5MPa ● Access Air Pressure:Less Than 0.8Mpa ● Ideal Clean Cut:1/2″/12 mm ● Maximum Severance Cut: 5/8″/16 mm ● Weight: 23lb/10.4 kg ● Arcing Type: Non-contact |
● Input Current:110V:40A,220V:50A ● Output Current:10-50 A ● Input Voltage: 110V/220V ● Cutting Material: Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, Aluminum ● Ideal Clean Cut:1/2″/12 mm ● Duty Cycle:60%(50A) ● Max Severance Thickness: 3/4″/19 mm ● Weight: 26lb ● Arcing Type: Non-contact |
● Input Current: 23.2A(110V)/21.6A(220V) ● Output Current: 50 A ● Input Voltage: 110V/220V ● Air Pressure: 220V@73PSI 50 Amps,110V@65PSI 40 Amps ● Cutting Material: Stainless Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, and other metal materials ● Ideal Clean Cut:1/2″/12 mm ● Duty Cycle:60%(50A) ● Max Severance Thickness: 3/4″/19 mm ● Weight: 21lb ● Arcing Type: Non-contact |
● Power Voltage:90V-260V(110V-220V)/50-60HZ ● Cutting Thickness: 1-20mm, Optimal Cutting Thickness 10mm ● Duty Cycle:85% ● Cutting Material:Stainless Ste el, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper and other color metal materials ● Arcing Type: Non-contact |
Accessory | 1 x Non-contact Plasma Cutter 1 x 16.4FT/5 m AG-60 Cutting Torch 1 x 6.56FT/2 m Ground Clamp 1 x Relief Valve + 2 Connectors 1 x Adapter, 2 x Electrodes 1 x 9.84FT/3 m Air Pipe 4 x Hose Clamps, 2 x Brass Nozzles 1 x Teflon Tape, 4 x Bolts 2 x Cable Racks 1 x Manual |
Power Supply, Flashlight, Ground Clamp | Plasma Cutting Torch 110 Volt to 220 Volt Power Adapter 10′ Ground Clamp 8′ Gas Hose Air Pressure Regular Electrode *3, Nozzle *2, Extend Tips *3 Instruction |
1 x Plasma Cutter 1 x Pressure Reducing Valve 1 x Earth Clamp 1 x 4m Cutting Torch 1 x Air Hose 6 x Replacement Consumables 2 x Electrode Nozzle 2 x Ceramic Cup 2 x Diverter 1 x Instruction Manual 220V American Plug 220V To 110V Conversion Line |
Price | $226 | $448/$499 | $217.63 | $286.99 |
(Comparison of Parameters)
Best Value for Money – VEVOR, First Choice for Entry-Level Users
The type of plasma cutter you choose will be determined by the kind of work you do. VEVOR plasma cutter is an all-in-one machine, dust-proof and water-resistant. It features precisely measured fan for effective heat dissipation (30%@40°C). No misleading labeling, with an ideal clean cut of 1/2″ (12.7 mm) and a maximum cutting thickness of 5/8″ (16 mm) to meet most daily needs. More safe and more convenient for home DIY or beginners.
Specifically designed cutting parameters for different metal materials, e.g., Aluminum: 3/10 “@35A 110V; 1/2 “@50A 220V. You can easily store your cables and accessories with two cable racks. Light weight and a comfortable handle make it easy to carry. Added USB (output: 5V/1A) interface can power connected USB devices like desk fans and USB lights.
This multifunctional plasma cutting machine is perfect for industrial/construction work and home/hobby use. It can also be used to create artistic patterns on metals. VEVOR, a professional tools and equipment retailer, is trustworthy with quality service.
Professional Function:LOTOS>VEVOR>TOOLIOM
LOTOS employs the latest IGBT inverter technology to deliver a consistent and precise current to the cutting surface. With a 10- to 50-amp cutting range and a non-touch pilot arc, the LTP5000D can cleanly cut through rusty or painted metal up to 12″ thick with almost no slag. The drag technology is excellent for tracing lines. Having a standoff keeps the nozzle clean and makes starting the plasma slice easy and effective.
Compared with other products, this machinery is more professional and suitable for cutting heavier gauged metal. However, it does not come with a lot of consumables. You need to purchase additional accessories to make the best out of its features. It is more desirable for industrial/heavy use than hobbyist use.
Price Advantage:TOOLIOM>VEVOR>LOTOS
TOOLIOM TL-50C comes with a high-visibility screen and complete basic functions, while the quality and accessories are not impressive. Suitable for various applications, including sheet metal fabrication, light industrial use, automotive, ducting work, repair, and maintennce services. This compact plasma cutter is generally a practical tool better suited for casual work.
TOOLIOM, a reputable tool manufacturer, is experienced in the field of welding products, and retails at a reasonable price. $ 200+ will serve well for a beginner or hobbyist on a tiny budget. However, it’s definitely not a heavy-duty machine for demanding industrial use. For anyone who has more advanced needs or pursues multiple functions, there are better options than this.
Durability – Strong Performance of S7
There are different start methods to initiate the pilot arc. Typically non-touch plasma cutters provide more stable arcs and longer consumable life, but contact cutters also perform well. The JH-1(2) from S7 is durable. A long-term supply of consumables makes it a good product.
It features easy-to-set parameters and a contact start method that helps you better position the torch. Widely used for cutting stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and other color metal materials. Our product has passed 12 tests, such as high-temperature resistance, cold, dust, bumps, throwing, noise, etc. It features good performance and is highly recommended to anyone satisfied with the contact method.
If you’re interested in plasma cutters, you will know more details about selecting the right machine after reading this article. We hope you enjoyed reading it.