They appear to be stabilizers or inverters at first glance, but they’re not! They work hard and are frequently used for useful tasks involving metalworking. You can choose from a variety of models with varying thicknesses or cutting capacities, depending on the material you need it for. However, is it feasible to purchase a high-quality plasma cutter on a tight budget? Let’s investigate!
We carefully examined ten models and discussed their attributes, including cutting performance, duty cycle, efficiency, size, and weight, in our guide to the best plasma cutters under $300. We’ll go into great detail regarding the advantages of plasma cutters below, along with some criteria for making a purchase. Check them out in the short comparison below before reading our reviews of the top affordable plasma cutters available.
Top 5 Best Plasma Cutter Under $300
PrimeWeld CUT50D 50A
Price: 300$
Regardless of whether you are cutting expanding metal, rusted metal, or alloy, the PrimeWeld CUT50D’s pilot arc will make the process easy.
With a 60% duty cycle, the machine can quickly make a new cut on a short job of 1/4 inch steel. But if you start cutting metal plates that are 1/2 inch thick, it can start to slow down.
Compared to other plasma cutters in this price bracket, it has a considerably superior 3-year warranty. Although we appreciated the extra-long 19.6-foot flashlight cable, the power cable was somewhat short, which made things more challenging.
However, it is compatible with both 110V and 220V.
LOTOS LT5000D
Price: 299$
The LOTOS LT5000D can be your best bet if your primary goals are to begin plasma cutting and have an affordable, high-quality cutter.
You may transport it from project to project with ease because it weighs only about 22.5 pounds. But take caution not to undervalue this cutter’s strength. With its 9-foot and 9-inch cutting torch, it can completely cut through nearly any kind of metal or alloy up to 1/2 inch thick.
Although users have found success with small-type compressors rated about 3 CFM, an air compressor rated at 3.8 CFM at 66 PSI is advised for a 1/2-inch clean cut and 3/4-gap thickness.
The tiny chassis can take up to 50 amps of electricity, which is more than sufficient for almost any cutting task you need to complete. To help you work longer and quicker, this machine also has a revolutionary cooling system.
You will need to adjust your position a bit more when working because the torch cable’s length is a little disappointing. Additionally, even if the upfront cost is minimal, expect to pay a little more for consumables than some of the more costly units.
Zeny CUT 50
Price: 195$
You might be willing to forgo performance in order to get a plasma cutter if you’re on a tight budget.
Due to its dual voltage capabilities, this device can operate on either 110V or 220V electricity. It features an integrated PRO technology, an easy-to-read air pressure gauge on the front panel, a digital LCD, and environmentally friendly operation.
You will need to go elsewhere if you enjoy cutting metal that is thicker than ⅜ of an inch. The machine cuts slowly and produces a fairly rough output at this depth. You will have to pause every two inches since it continuously overloads and shuts off.
VIVOHOME Portable DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
Price: 273$
The optimal cutting thickness of 0.5 inches is attained with the VIVAHOME CUT-50 plasma cutter. It includes a built-in fan and an electronic display. The nominal power voltage of the gadget is 110/220 volts. In a single work cycle, the plasma cutter reaches 60% at 50 amperes.
23 pounds is the shipping weight. It can handle up to 4.8KVA of input power and runs at 230V when there is no load. 20–50A is the rated output current. A motor capable of 1300 rotations per minute powers it.
An AIR regulator, an earth clamp, an LG-40 cutting torch, two pieces of plasma tip, a PG head, two gas pipe claspers, a hoop, an English manual, a chipping hammer or wire brush, a welding face mask, a pressure-reduction valve, and a pair of goggles are all included in the package.
SUNCOO 50 Amp Plasma Cutter
Price: 299.99$
The maximum cutting thickness of the SUNCOO CUT50 plasma cutter is 12 millimeters. It features an integrated inverter technology, which is distinguished by its low power consumption and excellent performance. The digital LED front display shows the air pressure reading. The manufacturer claims that the plasma cutter is capable of cutting stainless steel, copper, carbon steel, iron, and aluminum.
Work can begin right away thanks to the wide variety of accessories. A compressor is the sole component that needs a separate connection.
Depending on the material, the cutting current changes. The plasma torch has a 60 percent duty cycle. The plasma cutter incorporates safeguards against overvoltage, undervoltage, and overheating for safe operation.
The device, which weighs 25.4 lbs and has dimensions of 15.6 x 6.1 x 9.8 inches, may be employed in a variety of settings. A hose clamp, a gas hose, a nozzle, a grounding clamp, and an air regulator are all included in the kit.
Conclusion
The following details should be compared for the different models that catch your eye in order to make sure the plasma torch serves the necessary function. When making a purchase, consideration should be given to factors such as the cutting thickness, material, power consumption, potential applications, voltage, compressor connection, and integrated technologies. We describe these features in the sections that follow, along with which model best suits which requirements and power supply.
