Top 6 Best Plasma Cutter Under 1000 Dollars For Auto Repair, Plumbing, And Fabrication

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Looking for the best plasma cutter under 1000 dollars?

In A Rush? Check Out The Number 1 Pick Here:

Sale
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
  • โ˜… ๐Ÿ๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ’ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐Œ๐จ๐๐ž๐ฅ: 5/8-inch (16mm) Clean Cut, 3/4-inch (20mm) Severance Cut, Newly Upgraded PC board, Remarkable 25% Increase in Cutting Power compared to other standard 50-amp plasma cutters.
  • โ˜… ๐‘๐ž๐ฆ๐š๐ซ๐ค๐š๐›๐ฅ๐ž ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ“% ๐ˆ๐ง๐œ๐ซ๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐ž ๐ข๐ง ๐‚๐ฎ๐ญ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ: Enhanced with ๐š๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐š๐ฅ ๐ˆ๐†๐๐“๐ฌ on LOTOS ๐๐ž๐ฐ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐๐‚๐ ๐›๐จ๐š๐ซ๐ & ๐“๐จ๐ซ๐œ๐ก, delivering a remarkable 25% increase in cutting power output compared to standard 50-amp plasma cutters. The advanced control systems and precision cutting flames of the newly designed torch ensure high-precision cuts with smooth and fine cut lines. Experience faster cutting speeds without compromising accuracy.
  • โ˜… ๐’๐š๐Ÿ๐ž & ๐š๐ญ ๐‹๐จ๐ฐ ๐‚๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ: Newly designed upgraded torch and consumables guarantee enhanced precision cutting and increased durability, leading to a much longer consumable lifespan. ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ก๐ž๐ฅ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ฅ๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐š๐ ๐ž ๐œ๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ. The compact plasma cutter features a convenient handle for portability, and it utilizes non-hazardous compressed air to effortlessly cut through various materials, including stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum.
  • โ˜… ๐„๐š๐ฌ๐ฒ ๐’๐ž๐ญ๐ฎ๐ฉ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ง ๐Ÿ ๐Œ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐ญ๐ž: The pre-installed NPT 1/4" industry-type D plug and air filter regulator enable seamless connection to your air compressor using the existing stand coupler. Setting up the entire machine is effortless and can be completed within 1 minute. โ˜… ๐…๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐ญ-๐Œ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐‘๐ž๐ ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐š๐ญ๐จ๐ซ: Emphasize the significance of pressure adjustment for attaining precise cutting. Ensures a 100% Air Leakage-Free Guarantee.
  • โ˜… ๐‹๐ข๐Ÿ๐ž๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ž ๐“๐ž๐œ๐ก๐ง๐ข๐œ๐š๐ฅ ๐’๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ: we offer a ๐Ÿ‘๐ŸŽ ๐๐š๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ž๐ฒ-๐›๐š๐œ๐ค ๐ ๐ฎ๐š๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ž and ๐š ๐Ÿ-๐ฒ๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐๐ž๐ฐ ๐‘๐ž๐ฉ๐ฅ๐š๐œ๐ž๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ along with a ๐ญ๐จ๐ญ๐š๐ฅ ๐Ÿ‘-๐˜๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ covered by our US based lifetime technical support. To avail the warranty, please submit the warranty registration form on our website. ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐”๐’๐€-๐›๐š๐ฌ๐ž๐ dedicated customer service team is readily available to assist you through phone or email.

Plasma cutters have a special place in a fabricatorsโ€™ toolset โ€“ and for a lot of good reasons. Plasma cutters are powerful and suited for various applications โ€“ from installing heating and air conditioning to demolishing old wash systems (and more!).

More importantly, they are portable and affordable, making them a superior choice for most sheet metal fabrication applications. While laser cutters are precise, they are expensive, and waterjet cutters are not portable, very expensive, and require a lot of maintenance. Iโ€™ve only listed the most apparent advantages so far.

Thereโ€™s a lot more to like about plasma cutters, especially the fact that over the years, plasma cutters have gotten a lot more powerful and cheaper. There are several powerful and lightweight plasma cutters available for under $500. But finding the best options and narrowing down your list can get tedious.

Not to mention, a lot of plasma cutters in this price range offer bogus features and are not worth your money. Thereโ€™s no need to feel flustered though, Iโ€™ve got you covered. In this post, I will briefly review six excellent plasma cutters and help you find the best plasma cutter under 500 dollars.

Best Seller
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
Editor Choice
ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine
Best Budget
FORNEY Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutter
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine
FORNEY Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutter
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Best Seller
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
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Editor Choice
ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine
ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine
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Best Budget
FORNEY Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutter
FORNEY Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutter
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Things to Look for When Buying a Plasma Cutter

It is critical to know what to look for before spending any money on welders and plasma cutters. Your needs are unique, and you must make sure that you only spend on the right tool.

Power Specifications (Voltage and Amperage)

Cheap plasma cutters typically operate on 110V and 220V power, and the thickness of materials they can cut is fairly limited.

Look for plasma cutters that work on 220V/240V power, since these are more powerful and can cut through thicker materials.

Amperage is also an important indicator of cutting power and speed. The higher the amperage, the better.

A 25-amp plasma cutter can slice through a ยผ-inch sheet. A 50-amp cutter can cut through a sheet half an inch thick, and an 80-amp cutter can cut through inch-thick metal with ease.

Inverter

Not all plasma cutters come with an inverter, but having the feature handy is a definite plus.

Inverters in plasma cutters take the direct current and feed it through a high-frequency transistor inverter, typically ranging from 10kHz to 200kHz.

The high-frequency switching makes for smaller housing, which improves the overall portability of the unit.

Duty Cycle

Duty cycles are often overlooked, and I find it hard to understand why. In essence, a duty cycle defines how long the cutter can operate without overheating.

The cycle is measured in periods of 10 minutes. If you get a plasma cutter with a 30% duty cycle, it means the cutter can work without overheating for 3 out of every 10 minutes.

You donโ€™t want to spend hundreds of dollars only to find that the plasma cutter doesnโ€™t meet your needs. Make sure you look at the duty cycle before spending any money โ€“ a 50% duty cycle is optimal.

Air Filters

Some plasma cutters have a compressor built-in, and while that is a plus, you must make sure that the cutter comes with a high-quality air filter.

The presence of oil in the air leads to arcing, and quality air filters ensure that the air is free from oil.

Top 6 Best Plasma Cutter Under 1000 Dollars

1. Lotos LTP5000D

Sale
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
  • โ˜… ๐Ÿ๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ’ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐Œ๐จ๐๐ž๐ฅ: 5/8-inch (16mm) Clean Cut, 3/4-inch (20mm) Severance Cut, Newly Upgraded PC board, Remarkable 25% Increase in Cutting Power compared to other standard 50-amp plasma cutters.
  • โ˜… ๐‘๐ž๐ฆ๐š๐ซ๐ค๐š๐›๐ฅ๐ž ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ“% ๐ˆ๐ง๐œ๐ซ๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐ž ๐ข๐ง ๐‚๐ฎ๐ญ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ: Enhanced with ๐š๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐š๐ฅ ๐ˆ๐†๐๐“๐ฌ on LOTOS ๐๐ž๐ฐ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐๐‚๐ ๐›๐จ๐š๐ซ๐ & ๐“๐จ๐ซ๐œ๐ก, delivering a remarkable 25% increase in cutting power output compared to standard 50-amp plasma cutters. The advanced control systems and precision cutting flames of the newly designed torch ensure high-precision cuts with smooth and fine cut lines. Experience faster cutting speeds without compromising accuracy.
  • โ˜… ๐’๐š๐Ÿ๐ž & ๐š๐ญ ๐‹๐จ๐ฐ ๐‚๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ: Newly designed upgraded torch and consumables guarantee enhanced precision cutting and increased durability, leading to a much longer consumable lifespan. ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ก๐ž๐ฅ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ฅ๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐š๐ ๐ž ๐œ๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ. The compact plasma cutter features a convenient handle for portability, and it utilizes non-hazardous compressed air to effortlessly cut through various materials, including stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum.
  • โ˜… ๐„๐š๐ฌ๐ฒ ๐’๐ž๐ญ๐ฎ๐ฉ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ง ๐Ÿ ๐Œ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐ญ๐ž: The pre-installed NPT 1/4" industry-type D plug and air filter regulator enable seamless connection to your air compressor using the existing stand coupler. Setting up the entire machine is effortless and can be completed within 1 minute. โ˜… ๐…๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐ญ-๐Œ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐‘๐ž๐ ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐š๐ญ๐จ๐ซ: Emphasize the significance of pressure adjustment for attaining precise cutting. Ensures a 100% Air Leakage-Free Guarantee.
  • โ˜… ๐‹๐ข๐Ÿ๐ž๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ž ๐“๐ž๐œ๐ก๐ง๐ข๐œ๐š๐ฅ ๐’๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ: we offer a ๐Ÿ‘๐ŸŽ ๐๐š๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ž๐ฒ-๐›๐š๐œ๐ค ๐ ๐ฎ๐š๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ž and ๐š ๐Ÿ-๐ฒ๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐๐ž๐ฐ ๐‘๐ž๐ฉ๐ฅ๐š๐œ๐ž๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ along with a ๐ญ๐จ๐ญ๐š๐ฅ ๐Ÿ‘-๐˜๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ covered by our US based lifetime technical support. To avail the warranty, please submit the warranty registration form on our website. ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐”๐’๐€-๐›๐š๐ฌ๐ž๐ dedicated customer service team is readily available to assist you through phone or email.

The Lotos LTP5000D is perfect for both home projects and smaller industrial applications. The unit is compact, which is excellent, albeit it is also very durable and can withstand usage in extreme conditions.

Its smaller size makes handling easy, and the built-in carry handle makes it super portable. The pre-installed NPT ยผโ€ D-plug and regulator allow you to quickly connect it to an air compressor and get to work in under a minute.

The pilot arc technology makes for excellent cutting quality and allows you to cut without touching the tip to the metal. I found that the LTP5000D cuts through rough, painted, and rusty surfaces without much slag, which is impressive at this price point.

The plasma cutter is flexible โ€“ it works at both 110V/120V and 220/240V, but if you want to use the cutter on 110V, you will need to purchase a pigtail adapter separately. It can also work with both 50Hz and 60Hz power, which essentially enables you to use the cutter in any part of the world.

It can cut through metal ยพโ€ thick, and cutting is smooth, which is impressive considering its size and the price, but I think the earth clamp could have been a little longer.

The consumables have a long life, and replacement consumables are cheap and also available in kits. Stocking up on these to last you a few years is always a good idea.

The LTP5000D comes with a one-year warranty, which is a plus, but the build feels excellent, so you likely wonโ€™t need to claim the warranty.

Overall, the Lotos LTP5000D impresses with its array of features and excellent build quality. It is easy to see why hundreds of customers find it to be the best plasma cutter under 500 dollars.

Lotos LTP5000D Pros
  • Cuts through ยพโ€ metals with ease
  • No-touch pilot arc
  • Up to 50-amps output
  • Includes air filter regulator
Lotos LTP5000D Cons
  • Earth clamp could be longer
  • The standoff could be better

CHECK LATEST AMAZON PRICE

2. Zeny Cut 50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter

ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine
  • ใ€High Efficiency & Energy Savingใ€‘-- ZENY cutter machine by using inverter technical of switch power, stable and matureit greatly reduces the dimensions and weight of main transformer, energy saving 50%, as well as the efficiency is increased by 30%. Improved cooling method for the cutting torch; greatly makes the cutting consumables more endurable.
  • ใ€ 110V or 220V Dual Voltageใ€‘-- The ability of the dual voltage allows the plasma cutter to operate at 110V or 220V, with a power of 60HZ. The plasma cutter has the function to supply gas ahead and turn off gas delayed.
  • ใ€Compact Design & Widely Applicationsใ€‘-- This ZENY compact plasma cutter has a handle for portability. Easy taking.The net weight is 22.5LB. It is perfect for perfect for home DIY and general repairing work. Ideal for both home garages and workshops.
  • ใ€Specification for Cutter Machineใ€‘-- Voltage: 110/220V, 60HZ, 4.8KVA; Main Fuse: 16/22A; Current rage:20-50A; No-load Voltage:230V; Duty cycle: 60%; Efficiency:85%; Insulation class:F; Protection class: IP21S; Max cutting thickness:1-12mm

The Zeny Cut-50 is a little less powerful than the Lotos plasma cutter, but it is a lot more affordable. The small-sized unit can cut through a sheet up to ยฝ an inch thick, making it the best cheap plasma cutter in the market.

It only weighs 22 pounds, and the sturdy carry handle makes carrying it around very easy.

Itโ€™s perfect for DIY projects and can handle some light industrial use, but it is not the correct option for heavy-duty cutting.

Nevertheless, the Cut-50 cuts exceptionally well, and the risk of metal warping is virtually zero.

The plasma cutter comes with the LG-40 cutting torch, two plasma tips, an air pressure regulator, two glass pipe claspers, a grounding clamp, a chipping hammer, a welding face mask, and an air pressure control valve.

It can operate at 110V and 220V and has a duty cycle of 60%, which is impressive considering its super low price. The inverter power supply generates a powerful DC welding current that improves cut quality.

Although the cutter doesnโ€™t come with an air hose and a 110V cord, Iโ€™m not disappointed. The plasma cutter offers impressive power for its price, and itโ€™s difficult to find a better cutter for a DIY project.

Zeny Cut 50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Can cut ยฝ-inch thick metal
  • Affordable
Zeny Cut 50 DC Inverter Plasma Cutter Cons
  • No air hose and 110V plug

CHECK LATEST AMAZON PRICE

3. Forney Easy Weld 251

Sale
FORNEY Easy Weld 20 P Plasma Cutter
  • [EASY TO USE] -All you need is a 120 volt power source and 1.5 CFM of compressed air. Built in regulator and air dryer make operation a breeze. (Air Compressor Not Included)
  • [DRAG TORCH TECHNOLOGY] -Allows you to drag cutting tip in direct contact with the metal you're cutting for smooth consistent clean cuts.
  • [WELDER INCLUDES] - 13 foot cutting torch, 8 foot ground clamp, 20amp - 15amp adapter, 1 additional electrode and 1 additional nozzle.
  • [FORNEY BRAND STORE] - Visit Forney's Amazon brand store to find recommended accessories and consumables.

For what itโ€™s designed for, the build quality of the Forney Easy Weld 251 is exceptional. The all-metal case is sturdy, and the plasma cutter is built to last for years.

The torch is large, and while it doesnโ€™t feel uncomfortable to someone with smaller hands, if you have larger hands, you will certainly appreciate it more.

The clamp lead is large too, which keeps me at ease.

The plasma cutter is bigger than the Lotos LTP5000D but lighter at 21.5lbs, and the carry handle makes carrying it around a breeze. However, Iโ€™m a little disappointed with its performance.

For something thatโ€™s priced more or less the same as the Lotos LTP5000D, it only works with 110/120V and delivers a 20-amp output.

While cutting a thin sheet of metal will be super comfortable with the Forney Easy Weld, it will struggle to cut any material thicker than ยผโ€.

On the plus side, it can deal with rusty or painted metal without any problem, and it almost always produces a clean-cut finish.

Hobbyists will love the smooth glide and flawless finish the cutter provides, and itโ€™ll work well for fabrication and auto repair jobs. Still, Iโ€™d prefer to pay the same price for having the option to cut through thicker material.

Forney Easy Weld 251 Pros
  • Drag torch technology
  • Excellent interface and indicators
  • Large torch and clamp
Forney Easy Weld 251 Cons
  • Feels overpriced

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4. SUNGOLD POWER 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter

SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Air Plasma Cutter Inverter DC Digital Display IGBT Portable CUT50 Welding Portable Machine Cutting 50Amp Dual Voltage 110V and 220V
  • 1.IGBT Technology:IGBT machine is far superior and more stable than MOSFET machine, Adopting the most advanced inverter IGBT technology and the development of inverter air plasma cutter
  • 2. Dual Voltage: Automatic Dual Voltage / Dual Frequency allows the machine to run directly on 220 V 50/60 Hz power, or on 110 V 50/60 Hz,plug adapters included
  • 3. LCD Display: digital LCD display,easy read front panel air-pressure gauge, adjustable cutting current to satisfy the cutting demands based on different kinds of material and thickness of working plate
  • 4. Performance: 10-50AC output, 1/2โ€ ideal clean cut and 3/4โ€ maximum,Suitable for cutting Stainless steel,copper, iron , aluminum and other metal Materials.Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut, safe and at low cost.

The SUNGOLD POWER plasma cutter is another cutter that impresses with high power and low price.

It costs lesser than the majority of cutters on this list, but it cuts just as well, and in some cases, better than the other plasma cutters.

For a low-priced plasma cutter, it delivers excellent value for money, severing ยพโ€ inch sections of steel without much hassle. However, it only produces a clean finish for metals up to half an inch thick.

The 10 feet long ground clamp and 13 feet long torch keeps operation comfortable.

You get the option to choose between a 110/120V and a 220/240V input, and since it uses the IGBT inverter technology, itโ€™s a lot more stable than a run-of-the-mill MOSFET-based plasma cutter.

Its LCD is its stand-out feature and certainly makes use convenient by displaying air pressure and cutting current.

Overall, itโ€™s a solid low-budget plasma cutter that can handle anything you throw at it.

SUNGOLD POWER 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter Pros
  • Lightweight at 23.9lbs
  • Super compact
  • One-year warranty
  • LCD
SUNGOLD POWER 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter Cons
  • Drag technology wouldโ€™ve made operation smoother
  • No HF start โ€“ you will need to touch start it

CHECK LATEST AMAZON PRICE

5. PrimeWeld CT520D 50A

PrimeWeld 3-in-1 50 Amp Plasma Cutter, 200 Amp TIG Welder and 200 Amp Stick Welder - Welding and Cutting Combo, Mobile Welding Machine, Portable Plasma Cutter, Multipurpose Welder and Cutter, CT-520D
  • MULTIPURPOSE WELDER AND CUTTER: Cut many metals up to 1/2" thick with the 50A plasma cutting function. The TIG and stick welding settings also work with a variety of metals. Features an 50Hz/60Hz input power frequency and 85% power efficiency.
  • VERSATILE 3-IN-1 WELDING/CUTTING MACHINE: The 50A plasma cutter is used for cast iron, mild steel, copper, and more. The 200A TIG torch can weld magnesium, and stainless steel. Use the 200A stick welder for minor welding repairs.
  • UNIQUE MULTIPURPOSE WELDING MACHINE/PLASMA CUTTER IN DESIGN & PERFORMANCE: This 200 Amp welder consumes less energy, lowering the operation cost. The safe and user-friendly plasma cutter doesnโ€™t use flammable constituents, reducing exposure to risks.
  • PORTABLE, RELIABLE UNIT: The multipurpose welder and plasma cutter weighs only 32lbs, making it a great portable option. It features a duty cycle of 60% at maximum amps on all processes. It also easily switches from DC TIG welder to DC stick welder.
  • GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE: Backed by a 3-year warranty, we're committed to after-sales service. When you contact us, you speak with real technical specialists and representatives, and our USA-based parts and customer service is available 7 days a week.

If youโ€™re looking for a versatile tool under $500, the PrimeWeld CT520D is perfect for you.

When I first learned about the tool, I saw plasma cutter prices in a different light. The CT520D is modestly priced but makes no compromises. It offers more features than the other tools do.

It is a multi-purpose machine that can TIG, stick weld, and plasma cut. The PrimeWeld CT520D can cut a ยฝโ€ metal plate with ease, but the finish wonโ€™t be as clean as the Lotos LTP5000D.

It works on dual input, meaning you can use it with both 110/120V and 220/240V power. The torch lead is 13โ€™ long, and the ground lead is 11โ€™ long, meaning you can move around without worrying.

It the tool impressive for the price? Yes. But can it handle a workshop environment? No.

Itโ€™s right for hobbyists looking for a multi-purpose machine for a low price.

PrimeWeld CT520D 50A Pros
  • Long torch and ground leads
  • Multi-purpose machine
  • Modest pricing
  • Uses drag torch technology
PrimeWeld CT520D 50A Cons
  • Cuts could be cleaner
  • Thicker leads wouldโ€™ve lasted longer

CHECK LATEST AMAZON PRICE

6. Goplus CUT-50 Plasma Cutter

Goplusยฎ CUT-50 Electric Digital Plasma Cutter Inverter 50AMP 110-220V Dual Voltage Welder Cutting with Free Mask (Black)
  • ใ€Inverter Technicalใ€‘By adopting inverter technical of switch power, it greatly reduces the dimensions and weight of main transformer, as well as the efficiency is increased by 30%.
  • ใ€Dual Voltageใ€‘The ability of the dual voltage allows the plasma cutter to operate at 110V or 220V, with a power of 60HZ.
  • ใ€Portable Handleใ€‘The plasma cutter is equipped with a portable handle, which can easily bring to wherever you need it with the handle.
  • ใ€Special Functionใ€‘The plasma cutter has the function to supply gas ahead and turn off gas delayed.
  • ใ€Application Environmentใ€‘The plasma cutter can be used in an outside temperature of -10 degrees to +40 degrees, with the maximum humidity reaching 80%.

The Goplus CUT-50 is tough to beat in terms of performance-for-the-dollar. It costs well under $500 but can slice through thick pieces of metal with ease.

It works on dual voltage, and the compact plasma cutter can work in both hot and freezing conditions.

It comes with a โ€œspecial function,โ€ which gives you the ability to delay gas both before and after trigger release. You can also adjust the gas delay between two and five seconds.

While it does have its drawbacks, like the lack of 110V power chord, I didnโ€™t expect it to be able to cut ยฝโ€ pieces of steel for so cheap.

Itโ€™s not hard to see why itโ€™s rated so well, and if youโ€™re on a super low budget, this is the best plasma cutter under 500 dollars you can find.

Goplus CUT-50 Plasma Cutter Pros
  • Comes with mask
  • Can cut through ยฝโ€ steel
  • Excellent gas delay function.
Goplus CUT-50 Plasma Cutter Cons
  • No 110V power chord

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FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a โ€œdrag touchโ€ and a โ€œnon-touch pilot arcโ€?

A: Cutters that use the drag touch technology require the cutting tip to stay in contact with the material to work. On the other hand, the non-touch technology allows you to cut metal with the cutting tip further away from it.

Q: How hot is the plasma?

A: It can reach 20,000ยฐC (or roughly 45,000ยฐF). Wearing quality gloves is a must when operating any plasma cutters but especially Harbor Freight Plasma Cutter.

Q: How long does a plasma cutter tip last?

A: It depends on several factors like frequency of use, the thickness of materials, and cutting speed. The tip may last from a few days to a few weeks.

Q: Is plasma cutting expensive?

A: Plasma cutting equipment requires a more significant initial expenditure than conventional cutting technologies. A typical hand-held plasma cutting equipment costs between $1,500 and $3,500, and plasma tips and electrodes must be replaced every 15 to 20 minutes.

Q: Do you need an air compressor for a plasma cutter?

A: Generally, yes, however certain plasma cutters include built-in air compressors, and you can utilize gas cylinders. However, any plasma cutter will require a significant amount of air pressure to operate.

Verdict

If I had to pick one, Iโ€™d pick the Lotos LTP5000D. Itโ€™s compact, reasonably lightweight, and is powerful enough to slice through a ยพโ€ piece of metal.

The included air filter is a nice touch, and the no-touch pilot arc and long-lasting consumables make it the best plasma cutter under 500 dollars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnpurrKRqt0

Bestseller No. 1
Plasma Cutter, Max Cutting Thickness 20MM, 50A Inverter DC Inverter 110/220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine with Free Accessories Easy Cutter Welder
  • ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ญ๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ญ & ๐๐ž๐ซ๐Ÿ๐จ๐ซ๐ฆ๐š๐ง๐œ๐ž: 1/2โ€ Ideal Clean Cut And 3/4โ€ Maximum Severance Cut Under 220/240V,1/3" Ideal Clean Cut And 2/5" Maximum Severance Cut Under 110/120V. SUITABLE CUTTING For Stainless Steel, Alloy Steel, Mild Steel, Copper, Aluminum, Etc.
  • ๐๐จ๐ง-๐“๐จ๐ฎ๐œ๐ก ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐จ๐ญ ๐€๐ซ๐œ ๐๐ฅ๐š๐ฌ๐ฆ๐š ๐‚๐ฎ๐ญ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ: Efficiently Cuts Through Rough, Painted, And Rusty Surfaces And Produces Minimal Slag. Pilot Arc Technology Allows You To Cut Without Touching The Tip To The Metal. Newly Designed Upgraded Torch And Consumables Ensure More Precise Cutting And Durability of Consumable Life.
  • ๐’๐ž๐ง๐ฌ๐จ๐ซ ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐€๐ข๐ซ ๐๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ž & ๐€๐ข๐ซ ๐‚๐จ๐ฆ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ๐ฌ๐จ๐ซ:Inside of Machine Have Sensor of Air Pressure, User Can Adjust The Air Pressure Through Regulator. The Air Filter Is Installed At The Rear of The Machine with A Quick Air Connector 1/4 NPT, Which Can Be Used After Opening The Box.
  • ๐๐š๐œ๐ค๐š๐ ๐ž ๐ˆ๐ง๐œ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐๐ž๐ฌ: Power Supply, Plasma Cutting Torch, Ground Clamp, Pre-Installed NPT 1/4โ€ Industry Type D Plug And Air Filter Regulator, Consumables, Instruction Manual, Etc.
Bestseller No. 2
YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter Non-High Frequency, Screen Display Non-Touch Pilot Arc, Digital DC Inverter 110/220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine CUT-55DS Pro
  • [NON-HF START] The ''blow-back'' start comes without interference and is safe and ideal for general use, friendly to the surrounding electrical machines and human health.
  • [DIGITAL DISPLAY]: The screen centrally displays parameters such as air pressure, voltage, current, etc., allowing users to understand the status of the equipment in real time, adjusting the operation in a timely manner, and improving the efficiency of the operation. If the plasma cutting machine can not work, there will be an error code system on the screen, it is easy to find the problem.
  • [CLEAN CUT] CUT-55DS PRO adopts the international leading MCU intelligent digital control technology, all the main components are realized by software.CLEAN CUT: 1/3''@110V 1/2''@220V // MAX CUT: 1/2''@110V 4/5''@220V.
  • [PT/2T/4T FUNCTION]: Post time function, adjustable from 5-20 seconds. Adjust the cooling time of the welding head to extend the life of consumables. Generally, we recommend a cooling time of 5-8 seconds. 2T/4T auto cut releases your fingers. 2T is a semi-automatic cutting control, 4T is an automatic cutting control.
  • [AIR FILTER REGULATOR] There is an air pressure sensor inside the machine, users can adjust the air pressure by the regulator. The air filter is mounted at the rear of the machine, which allows for quick connection and saves installation time and improves efficiency.
SaleBestseller No. 3
LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, 2024 Upgraded 5/8" 16mm Clean Cut 3/4" 20mm Severance Cut 50A Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Metal Cutter Machine, Plasma Cutting Equipment, Dual Voltage 120V or 240V, Brown
  • โ˜… ๐Ÿ๐ŸŽ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ’ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐Œ๐จ๐๐ž๐ฅ: 5/8-inch (16mm) Clean Cut, 3/4-inch (20mm) Severance Cut, Newly Upgraded PC board, Remarkable 25% Increase in Cutting Power compared to other standard 50-amp plasma cutters.
  • โ˜… ๐‘๐ž๐ฆ๐š๐ซ๐ค๐š๐›๐ฅ๐ž ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ“% ๐ˆ๐ง๐œ๐ซ๐ž๐š๐ฌ๐ž ๐ข๐ง ๐‚๐ฎ๐ญ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ: Enhanced with ๐š๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐š๐ฅ ๐ˆ๐†๐๐“๐ฌ on LOTOS ๐๐ž๐ฐ๐ฅ๐ฒ ๐”๐ฉ๐ ๐ซ๐š๐๐ž๐ ๐๐‚๐ ๐›๐จ๐š๐ซ๐ & ๐“๐จ๐ซ๐œ๐ก, delivering a remarkable 25% increase in cutting power output compared to standard 50-amp plasma cutters. The advanced control systems and precision cutting flames of the newly designed torch ensure high-precision cuts with smooth and fine cut lines. Experience faster cutting speeds without compromising accuracy.
  • โ˜… ๐’๐š๐Ÿ๐ž & ๐š๐ญ ๐‹๐จ๐ฐ ๐‚๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ: Newly designed upgraded torch and consumables guarantee enhanced precision cutting and increased durability, leading to a much longer consumable lifespan. ๐“๐ก๐ข๐ฌ ๐ก๐ž๐ฅ๐ฉ๐ฌ ๐ฅ๐จ๐ฐ๐ž๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐จ๐ฏ๐ž๐ซ๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐š๐ ๐ž ๐œ๐จ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ฌ. The compact plasma cutter features a convenient handle for portability, and it utilizes non-hazardous compressed air to effortlessly cut through various materials, including stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum.
  • โ˜… ๐„๐š๐ฌ๐ฒ ๐’๐ž๐ญ๐ฎ๐ฉ ๐ฐ๐ข๐ญ๐ก๐ข๐ง ๐Ÿ ๐Œ๐ข๐ง๐ฎ๐ญ๐ž: The pre-installed NPT 1/4" industry-type D plug and air filter regulator enable seamless connection to your air compressor using the existing stand coupler. Setting up the entire machine is effortless and can be completed within 1 minute. โ˜… ๐…๐ซ๐จ๐ง๐ญ-๐Œ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐‘๐ž๐ ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐š๐ญ๐จ๐ซ: Emphasize the significance of pressure adjustment for attaining precise cutting. Ensures a 100% Air Leakage-Free Guarantee.
  • โ˜… ๐‹๐ข๐Ÿ๐ž๐ญ๐ข๐ฆ๐ž ๐“๐ž๐œ๐ก๐ง๐ข๐œ๐š๐ฅ ๐’๐ฎ๐ฉ๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ: we offer a ๐Ÿ‘๐ŸŽ ๐๐š๐ฒ ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง๐ž๐ฒ-๐›๐š๐œ๐ค ๐ ๐ฎ๐š๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ž and ๐š ๐Ÿ-๐ฒ๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐๐ž๐ฐ ๐‘๐ž๐ฉ๐ฅ๐š๐œ๐ž๐ฆ๐ž๐ง๐ญ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ along with a ๐ญ๐จ๐ญ๐š๐ฅ ๐Ÿ‘-๐˜๐ž๐š๐ซ ๐ฅ๐ข๐ฆ๐ข๐ญ๐ž๐ ๐ฐ๐š๐ซ๐ซ๐š๐ง๐ญ๐ฒ covered by our US based lifetime technical support. To avail the warranty, please submit the warranty registration form on our website. ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐”๐’๐€-๐›๐š๐ฌ๐ž๐ dedicated customer service team is readily available to assist you through phone or email.
Bestseller No. 4
TOOLIOM 50A Non-Touch Pilot ARC Air Plasma Cutter Dual Voltage 110V/220V IGBT Inverter Metal Cutting Machine 1/2" Clean Cut
  • Non-touch Polit ARC: Can effectively cut rough, painted and rusty surfaces, and generates the least slag. The torch head does not need to touch the metal plate, then it will start arc. Better cutting quality and longer consumable life.
  • Powerful Cutting Effect: Up to 50A output, 60% Duty Cycle, maximum 1/2" clean cut.
  • Multi-applications: Suitable for cutting stainless steel, alloy steel, low carbon steel, copper and other metal materials.
  • Safety Protection: Certificated by ETL, built in over current protection, over load protection, temperature control.
  • Portable: Auto-voltage adapts to 110 V - 220 V input power with adapter. Lightweight 13lb, can be carry and storage anywhere you need.
Bestseller No. 5
YESWELDER CUT-55DS 55Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Air Power Plasma Cutter 1/2 Inch Clean Cut, Digital 110/220V Dual Voltage IGBT Inverter Plasma Cutting Machine with ETL Approved
  • [NON-TOUCH PILOT ARC] Efficiently cuts though rough, painted, and rusty surfaces and produces minimal slag. Pilot arc technology allows you to cut without touching the tip to the metal. Better cutting quality and longer consumable life.
  • [BUILT-IN POST FLOW] When you stop cutting, the air runs on for a minute to cool the consumable of the plasma cutter torch. This will extend consumable life.
  • [POWERFUL CUTTING ABILITY] 20-55 output, ideal clean cut: 3/10''@110V,1/2''@220V, max cut: 3/5''@110V,4/5''@220V. Uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, copper, and aluminum.
  • [LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE] Allows for connection to 110 or 220 volt receptacles without tools, Portable in the shop or at the job siteโ€”at 11.55lb, the shoulder strap allows the end user to easily move from location to location.
  • [ADDED SAFETY] Certificated by ETL, Automatic compensation for voltage fluctuation, over current protection, over load protection, temperature control. Note:Due to the inner structure, the pressure gauge may only read about 30psi, which is the normal phenomenom and it do not affect the whole operation.

About the Author Gregory

Hi, my name is Gregory! I have been welding practically all of my life and love it. As I have gotten older I have started to weld less and less, so in order to continue my love for welding I created this website. I like to write about my experiences and help you all become welders. I hope that you enjoy the site!

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