5 Best Plasma Cutters with Built-in Air Compressors

Hypertherm Powermax 30

4.9 WeldWins Rating

The Hypertherm Powermax 30 is a top-tier plasma cutter that combines lightweight portability with industrial-grade performance. Ideal for both professionals and hobbyists, this machine offers exceptional cutting power and ease of use, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

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• Brand:

  Hypertherm

• Model:

  Hypertherm Powermax 30

• Price Rating:

  $$$$$

• Power:

  Dual 120/240 volt input, 15 to 30 amp output

• Weight:

  30 pounds

• Warranty:

  3-year

• Cutting Capacity:

  Cuts up to 3/8-inch steel plate

• Arc Start:

  Drag cutting arc start

• Pilot Arc:

  Continuous pilot arc

• Construction:

  Industrial grade construction

• Certifications:

  Certified for America, Russia, Europe

• Water Separator:

  Built-in water separator

The Hypertherm Powermax 30 stands out as a premier choice in the realm of plasma cutters, thanks to its impressive blend of power and portability. Weighing in at just 30 pounds, this machine is the lightest in its class, yet it doesn't compromise on performance. With a dual 120/240 volt input and an output of 15 to 30 amps, it effortlessly cuts through 3/8-inch steel plates, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks. The built-in water separator ensures cleaner cuts, adding to the overall efficiency and quality of your work.

One of the standout features of the Powermax 30 is its Drag Cut technology, which simplifies the arc starting process. All you need to do is touch and pull with the torch, and you're ready to go. This feature, combined with the continuous pilot arc, makes cutting grates and mesh a breeze. The machine's industrial-grade construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable tool for both professional and personal use. Additionally, its certifications for use in multiple regions, including America, Russia, and Europe, attest to its high standards and versatility.

While the Hypertherm Powermax 30 comes with a higher price point, its array of features and robust performance justify the investment. The lack of a CNC connection might be a drawback for some, but for those focused on portability and manual cutting tasks, this machine excels. The 3-year warranty on the power supply system provides added peace of mind, ensuring that your investment is protected. Overall, the Hypertherm Powermax 30 is a powerful, reliable, and user-friendly plasma cutter that delivers exceptional value and performance.

Hobart Airforce 12ci

4.7 WeldWins Rating

The Hobart Airforce 12ci is a lightweight and portable plasma cutter designed for HVAC professionals and hobbyists alike. With its ergonomic torch and advanced cooling features, this tool offers both convenience and efficiency for light-duty cutting tasks.

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• Brand:

  Hobart

• Model:

  Hobart Airforce 12ci

• Price Rating:

  $$$$

• Power:

  120 volt input, 12 amp output

• Portability:

  Lightweight, designed for maximum portability

• Cutting Capacity:

  Cuts 3/16-inch steel plate

• Warranty:

  5-year warranty

• Torch:

  Ergonomic torch with 12-foot connection

• Cooling System:

  Fan-On-Demand, post flow feature

The Hobart Airforce 12ci plasma cutter is a remarkable tool designed for those who need portability without sacrificing performance. Weighing in at a manageable weight, this plasma cutter is perfect for HVAC professionals and DIY enthusiasts who need to carry their equipment into various job sites. Its ability to operate on standard 120-volt power makes it incredibly versatile, allowing users to plug it into any household outlet and get to work immediately.

One of the standout features of the Hobart Airforce 12ci is its ergonomic torch, which provides a comfortable grip and precise control. The 12-foot connection length ensures that you have ample reach for most tasks, making it easier to maneuver around your workpiece. Additionally, the pilot arc start feature simplifies the cutting process, even for beginners, by allowing for easy and consistent starts without the need for direct contact with the metal surface.

The Airforce 12ci also boasts advanced cooling features that enhance its durability and efficiency. The Fan-On-Demand system activates the cooling fan only when necessary, reducing power consumption and minimizing the buildup of dust and debris inside the unit. The post flow feature continues to blow air after the cut is made, rapidly cooling the torch and workpiece, which not only extends the life of the consumables but also speeds up your workflow.

Despite its compact size, the Hobart Airforce 12ci is a serious professional tool backed by a 5-year warranty, providing peace of mind to its users. While some users have reported issues with weak air pressure and a limited output range, the overall performance and convenience of this plasma cutter make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Whether you're cutting brackets, repair plates, or other minor tasks, the Hobart Airforce 12ci delivers reliable and efficient results every time.

Lincoln Tomahawk 375

4.6 WeldWins Rating

The Lincoln Tomahawk 375 by Lincoln Electric is a versatile and powerful plasma cutter, perfect for DIY fabricators. With its ability to cut up to 3/8-inch steel and support for both internal and external air supplies, this tool is designed to meet a variety of cutting needs efficiently.

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• Brand:

  Lincoln Electric

• Model:

  Lincoln Tomahawk 375

• Price Rating:

  $$$

• Power:

  10-25 amp output power

• Cutting Capacity:

  Cuts up to 3/8-inch steel

• Compressor:

  70 PSI compressor

• Air Supply:

  Internal or external air supply

• Torch:

  LC25 torch

• Regulator:

  Includes regulator

The Lincoln Tomahawk 375 Air Plasma Cutter is a robust and versatile tool designed for DIY fabricators who need reliable cutting power. With an output range of 10-25 amps, this machine is capable of handling a variety of materials, from thin sheet metal to 3/8-inch steel. The built-in 70 PSI compressor ensures consistent performance, although for heavier cuts, an external air source is recommended to achieve optimal results.

One of the standout features of the Tomahawk 375 is its user-friendly design. All controls are conveniently located on the front panel, allowing for quick adjustments and increased productivity. The inclusion of an LC25 torch and a regulator further enhances its usability, making it ready to cut right out of the box. Whether you're working on trailer frames or pipe fencing, this plasma cutter delivers precise and clean cuts with minimal effort.

While the Tomahawk 375 is not intended for high-volume professional use, it excels in a DIY setting. Its ability to switch between internal and external air supplies adds to its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of projects. The machine's performance at lower amperages is also noteworthy, as it can handle delicate tasks without compromising on quality. However, for more demanding cuts, the external air supply becomes essential to maintain cutting efficiency.

Overall, the Lincoln Tomahawk 375 offers excellent value for its price. It combines power, precision, and ease of use in a compact package, making it an ideal choice for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. Despite its few limitations, such as the need for external air for heavy cuts and the lack of computer control, its performance and features make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to tackle various cutting tasks with confidence.

Forney 250 P Plus

4.5 WeldWins Rating

The Forney 250 P Plus is a versatile and portable plasma cutter perfect for DIY enthusiasts and light-duty professional tasks. With its easy-to-use drag torch arc starting and compatibility with household current, this tool is ideal for those needing reliable cutting performance in various settings.

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• Brand:

  Forney

• Model:

  Forney 250 P Plus

• Price Rating:

  $$$

• Power:

  120 volt input, 12 amp output

• Weight:

  43 pounds

• Warranty:

  3-year

• Cutting Capacity:

  Cuts up to 1/8-inch steel

• Portability:

  Generator friendly, 15 foot torch connection

• Ease of Use:

  Drag torch arc starting, consumables storage area

The Forney 250 P Plus is a standout plasma cutter designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who require a reliable tool for light-duty tasks. One of its most appealing features is its ability to run on a standard 120-volt household current, making it incredibly convenient for home workshops. The drag torch arc starting ensures that even beginners can get started with minimal hassle, while the built-in air compressor and automatic controls simplify the setup process, allowing users to focus on their projects rather than fiddling with settings.

Portability is another strong suit of the Forney 250 P Plus. Weighing in at just 43 pounds and featuring a 15-foot torch connection, this plasma cutter is easy to transport and offers excellent reach for various cutting tasks. Its generator-friendly design means it can be used in remote locations, making it a versatile tool for professionals who need to perform on-site repairs or installations. The integrated air dryer and pressure regulator further enhance its usability, ensuring consistent performance even in less-than-ideal conditions.

While the Forney 250 P Plus excels in many areas, it's important to note its limitations. It is best suited for light-duty work, capable of cutting up to 1/8-inch steel. This makes it ideal for tasks like appliance repairs, HVAC ducting, and other similar applications. However, it may not be the best choice for high-volume or heavy-duty cutting jobs. The slight delay in arc starting and heating up can be a minor inconvenience for those needing to make frequent, rapid cuts. Despite these limitations, the Forney 250 P Plus offers excellent value with its ease of use, portability, and robust design, backed by a 3-year warranty.

Thermal Dynamics Air Cut 15C

4.8 WeldWins Rating

The Thermal Dynamics Air Cut 15C is a professional-grade plasma cutter designed for craftsmen who need a lightweight, efficient, and high-quality tool. With its superior build quality and impressive cutting capabilities, this machine is perfect for those who demand reliability and performance in their work.

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• Brand:

  Thermal Dynamics

• Model:

  Thermal Dynamics Air Cut 15C

• Price Rating:

  $$$

• Power Input:

  120 volt

• Weight:

  29 pounds

• Warranty:

  1-year

• Output Power:

  15 amp

• Cutting Capacity:

  Cuts up to 3/16-inch steel

• Torch Connection:

  20 foot

• Duty Cycle:

  35 percent at 15 amps

• Cutting Rate:

  High cutting rate

• Power Efficiency:

  Low power use

The Thermal Dynamics Air Cut 15C, crafted by the renowned brand Thermal Dynamics under Hypertherm and sold by ESAB, stands out as a top-tier plasma cutter aimed at professionals. Weighing in at just 29 pounds, this machine is exceptionally lightweight, especially considering it includes a built-in air compressor. This makes it about 50 percent lighter than the average 15 amp plasma cutter, allowing for easy portability and maneuverability on job sites.

One of the standout features of the Air Cut 15C is its impressive cutting capacity. It can effortlessly slice through 3/16-inch plate steel, making it a versatile tool for various cutting tasks. The machine boasts a high cutting rate, claimed to be 25 percent faster than other plasma cutters in its class. This efficiency, combined with a 35 percent duty cycle at 15 amps and a 50 percent duty cycle at 12 amps, ensures that professionals can achieve a significant amount of work without frequent interruptions.

Despite its higher price point, the Air Cut 15C justifies the investment with its superior build quality and the reliability that comes with the ESAB 1-year warranty. The 20-foot torch connection provides ample reach, and the machine's compatibility with a 120-volt power source makes it suitable for use in various settings, including inside customers' homes. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for craftsmen who need to perform precise and efficient cutting tasks on-site.

While the Air Cut 15C is limited to a 120-volt input and may be considered expensive for its power rating, its overall performance, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any professional's toolkit. The combination of lightweight design, high cutting efficiency, and robust construction ensures that this plasma cutter will meet the demands of even the most rigorous cutting applications.