{"id":6132,"date":"2021-01-12T15:14:36","date_gmt":"2021-01-12T15:14:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/?p=6132"},"modified":"2023-05-30T17:47:36","modified_gmt":"2023-05-30T17:47:36","slug":"the-best-plasma-cutters","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/the-best-plasma-cutters\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Plasma Cutters"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2 class=\"a-size-large a-spacing-none\">Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Plasma Cutter<\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LTP5000D-Non-Touch-Plasma-Voltage\/dp\/B0052OX876\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><div class=\"amazon-card\"><div class=\"product-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LTP5000D-Non-Touch-Plasma-Voltage\/dp\/B0052OX876\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img title='' alt='' src='https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41zT5YS69jL.jpg' \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-details\"><h3 class=\"product-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LTP5000D-Non-Touch-Plasma-Voltage\/dp\/B0052OX876\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Slice and dice<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"product-summary\">This plasma cutter is the go-to device for precise cuts on both clean and grimy metallic surfaces.<\/div><\/div><div class='product-award'><div>Best Overall<\/div><\/div><p class=\"find-in-btn-wrap\"><a class=\"find-in-btn btn-amazon product-amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LTP5000D-Non-Touch-Plasma-Voltage\/dp\/B0052OX876\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Find on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/a>\n<p>The Lotos LTP5000D is a top performer for quick and accurate cuts in the realm of mid-duty metalworking jobs. When choosing a plasma cutter, the duty cycle is your key metric. Higher amperage translates to longer duty cycles, meaning you can get more work in before having to take a break to let things cool off. Better yet, the LTP5000D&#8217;s 50amp duty cycle is robust enough to efficiently slice through half-inch alloy steel thanks to the pilot arc technology. If you&#8217;re working metal for industrial art projects or reclaiming steel, you can&#8217;t go wrong with Lotos&#8217; Non-Touch Plasma Cutter.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Small enough to easily fit on a workshop cart<\/li>\n<li>US-based company<\/li>\n<li>Spare nozzles and electrodes included<\/li>\n<li>Does not eat through consumables quickly<\/li>\n<li>Even cuts through lightly rusted metal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Awkward trigger placement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"a-size-large a-spacing-none\">Lotos LT3500 35Amp Air Plasma Cutter<\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LT3500-Installed-Connector-Portable\/dp\/B072P6BXQ4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><div class=\"amazon-card\"><div class=\"product-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LT3500-Installed-Connector-Portable\/dp\/B072P6BXQ4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img title='' alt='' src='https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41rGWJAgv-L.jpg' \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-details\"><h3 class=\"product-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LT3500-Installed-Connector-Portable\/dp\/B072P6BXQ4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">The cutting edge<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"product-summary\">Affordable and accurate, this plasma cutter will turn messy metal into a masterpiece.<\/div><\/div><div class='product-award'><div>Best Value<\/div><\/div><p class=\"find-in-btn-wrap\"><a class=\"find-in-btn btn-amazon product-amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Lotos-LT3500-Installed-Connector-Portable\/dp\/B072P6BXQ4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Find on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/a>\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for a low- to medium-power plasma cutter to use for scrap metal, the Lotos LT3500 fits the bill perfectly. Plasma cutters will rarely exceed half-inch thick cuts without breaking the bank, and doing so will usually bring you close to maximum power output. The LT3500&#8217;s severance cut, or maximum thickness that can be cut when starting on an edge, is 0.6 inches. That&#8217;s a truly remarkable feat, given its small stature. And, in addition to impressive power output, the LT3500 plugs into standard wall outlets. It boasts a robust cooling system, making it accessible to newbies just dipping their toes into the realm of plasma cutting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The standard Type D plug means it&#8217;s compatible with nearly every air compressor<\/li>\n<li>At less than 20 pounds in weight, you can transport this option easily<\/li>\n<li>The pre-installed air filter to get you started in record time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The included ground cable is short, which can limit mobility<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"a-size-large a-spacing-none\">PrimeWeld CT520D Portable Plasma Cutter<\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PrimeWeld-Ct520d-Plasma-Cutter-Welder\/dp\/B014ECTCB2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><div class=\"amazon-card\"><div class=\"product-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PrimeWeld-Ct520d-Plasma-Cutter-Welder\/dp\/B014ECTCB2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img title='' alt='' src='https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/513Fsf1FwsL.jpg' \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-details\"><h3 class=\"product-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PrimeWeld-Ct520d-Plasma-Cutter-Welder\/dp\/B014ECTCB2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Cut to the chase<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"product-summary\">Metalworking hobbyists and professionals trust this device for tackling a wide range of metal-based crafts.<\/div><\/div><div class='product-award'><div>Best Combo Machine<\/div><\/div><p class=\"find-in-btn-wrap\"><a class=\"find-in-btn btn-amazon product-amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/PrimeWeld-Ct520d-Plasma-Cutter-Welder\/dp\/B014ECTCB2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Find on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/a>\n<p>Metal fabrication projects are rarely limited to cuts alone. Chances are high that you&#8217;ll eventually need to fuse together all that metal you&#8217;ve been gleefully cutting apart. So instead of purchasing several costly machines for all our metalworking needs, you might want to score this portable plasma cutter from PrimeWeld. The CT530D is a big hit for autobody shops and home repair tasks alike because of its easy setup, longevity, and versatility. For example, the unit can be switched to welding mode in mere minutes, allowing you to continue your project even more efficiently than with more expensive models.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Can weld continuously for approximately 10 minutes before overheating<\/li>\n<li>Can perform TIG welds for more precise joinings or stick welds for quick jobs<\/li>\n<li>The built-in inverter makes the unit great for jobs on the road<\/li>\n<li>The operation guide is easy to understand<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>No pilot arc included for rusty cuts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"a-size-large a-spacing-none\">Reboot RBC-5000DL Plasma Cutter<\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Plasma-Cutter-50Amp-Pilot-Arc\/dp\/B07XYPNQ8M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><div class=\"amazon-card\"><div class=\"product-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Plasma-Cutter-50Amp-Pilot-Arc\/dp\/B07XYPNQ8M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img title='' alt='' src='https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41reySeEWzL.jpg' \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-details\"><h3 class=\"product-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Plasma-Cutter-50Amp-Pilot-Arc\/dp\/B07XYPNQ8M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Steel yourself<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"product-summary\">When your project calls for hardcore craftsmanship, this plasma cutter is the one workshop essential you don't want to go without.<\/div><\/div><div class='product-award'><div>Most Heavy-Duty<\/div><\/div><p class=\"find-in-btn-wrap\"><a class=\"find-in-btn btn-amazon product-amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Plasma-Cutter-50Amp-Pilot-Arc\/dp\/B07XYPNQ8M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Find on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/a>\n<p>Plasma cutting can seem like a dangerous hobby to the uninitiated, and given the sheer force of the tool, it&#8217;s an understandable worry. Fortunately, Reboot&#8217;s RBC-5000DL Plasma Cutter is as safe (and powerful) as they come. This option is reinforced with hard plastic padding to prevent damage from bumps or falls and is securely packaged for accident-free delivery. Furthermore, the pilot arc makes cutting used metal a breeze. Instead of initially making direct contact with the surface, the plasma is blown from the nozzle to the metal in question. By not having to rely on the sheet of metal to start the cutting process, you&#8217;ll both save your nozzle from damage and enable cuts through rusty or otherwise dirty materials.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Includes pressure regulator, air hose, and earth clamp<\/li>\n<li>Can be easily converted from 110 volts to 220 volts for maximum thickness cuts<\/li>\n<li>Convenient PSI cutting guide included on the front plate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The unit may damage standard household outlets if used for too long<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"a-size-large a-spacing-none\">Hobart 500564 Airforce Plasma Cutter<\/h2>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hobart-500564-Airforce-Plasma-Compressor\/dp\/B014V4LJWS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><div class=\"amazon-card\"><div class=\"product-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hobart-500564-Airforce-Plasma-Compressor\/dp\/B014V4LJWS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img title='' alt='' src='https:\/\/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41-dg1Oz+QL.jpg' \/><\/a><\/div><div class=\"product-details\"><h3 class=\"product-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hobart-500564-Airforce-Plasma-Compressor\/dp\/B014V4LJWS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Compact commercial cutting<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"product-summary\">This machine is our top pick for convenient cutting without the need for bulky attachments.<\/div><\/div><div class='product-award'><div>Most Portable<\/div><\/div><p class=\"find-in-btn-wrap\"><a class=\"find-in-btn btn-amazon product-amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hobart-500564-Airforce-Plasma-Compressor\/dp\/B014V4LJWS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Find on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/a>\n<p>Depending on your environment, lugging a heavy cutter around can be tedious and, in some instances, impossible. The Hobart 500564 Airforce Plasma Cutter is a brawny machine that you can take wherever the job calls. The 500564 is innovative in that the air compressor comes built-in, meaning all you need to worry about are your torch&#8217;s consumables and your accuracy. While Hobart can&#8217;t help with a shaky hand, the cutter features a much smaller head, meaning less of your torch is subjected to high temperatures, and your cuts come out much more precise than with larger, clunkier cutters.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pros:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>No need to fine-tune air pressure settings<\/li>\n<li>Generates less slag while cutting, meaning less cleanup<\/li>\n<li>Reputable company<\/li>\n<li>Much quieter when compared to other plasma cutters and air compressor pairings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Cons:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>It&#8217;s a light-duty machine, so it won&#8217;t cut through thick steel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>What are the most important factors to consider when purchasing a plasma cutter?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Determining the maximum cut thickness is arguably the most critical specification of a plasma cutter. Excluding higher-end models found in professional workshops, retail plasma cutters will max out around half an inch for severance cuts. That means, with the right amount of power, you can make some rough cuts through half an inch of steel.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Why should I purchase a plasma cutter with a pilot arc?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Pilot arcs are incredibly versatile tools that make plasma cutting significantly easier. Traditional torches need to physically be in contact with the plate you&#8217;re cutting to function. A pilot arc, by comparison, creates self-contained plasma within the torch and uses the attached air compressor to force the ionized air against the plate. If your torch is being worn down from slag or you find yourself cutting into rusted or painted metal frequently, the pilot arc cutter is a great alternative.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Plasma Cutter The Lotos LTP5000D is a top performer for quick and accurate cuts in the realm of mid-duty metalworking jobs. When choosing a plasma cutter, the duty cycle is your key metric. Higher amperage translates to longer duty cycles, meaning you can get more work in before having to take [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[1065,1624],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6132"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/54"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6132"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6132\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10587,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6132\/revisions\/10587"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6132"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6132"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gamerevolution.engagingreview.com\/reviews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6132"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}