5 Best Plasma Cutters with Built in Air Compressors – 2023

Because Hypertherm’s entire focus is on cutting technology rather than as another aspect of welding technology, it enjoys a reputation as the industry leader. The Hypertherm Powermax 30 shows this pedigree throughout the entire machine. This is the lightest plasma cutting machine in its class, weighing only 30 pounds but producing 30 amps, enough to cut ⅜-inch steel plate with ease.

The onboard air compressor provides plenty of pressure to clear the cut channel and the Hypertherm Powermax 30 comes with dual 120 and 240 volt power input. Hypertherm’s Drag Cut technology makes for easy arc starts because all you have to do to strike the arc is touch and pull with the torch and it’s off to the races.

Hypertherm intends the PowerMax 30 for small tasks and portability, so it doesn’t include a computer control connection on the Powermax 30 for CNC work. This machine comes with a 3-year warranty on the power supply system. This machine is certified CSA for use in the Americas and Asia (except China) and it can be used for certified work in Russia, the Ukraine and Serbia.

The Hobart Airforce 12ci plasma cutter is designed for maximum portability. This is a light-duty machine that runs on 120 volts, with just enough power to be able to cut 3/16-inch steel plate, which is plenty good enough for cutting brackets, repair plates and other minor tasks. It’s perfect for HVAC professionals and others that need a plasma cutter they can carry into a house and plug in to the homeowner’s power source.

Even though this is a light duty plasma cutting machine, it does have some advanced professional features. Post flow air control will continue blowing air after the cut is made to cool it faster. Hobart’s Fan-On-Demand will only operate the cooling fan when it’s needed to save power and keep dust and debris from building up inside the Airforce 12ci cabinet. Even beginners will find this plasma cutter easy to use with pilot arc starting and a beautiful Miller ergonomic torch.

Hobart is a leader in the metal working industries. Its machines are seen anywhere there are welders and metal workers. Although small and lightweight, the Hobart Airforce 12ci with a built in air compressor is a serious professional tool backed by a 5-year warranty.

The Lincoln Electric K2806-1 Tomahawk 375 Air Plasma Cutter offers up to 25 amps of cutting power. Built to industrial standards, this machine is aimed at DIY fabricators rather than professionals doing daily high volume work. Its compressor is rated 70 PSI average work pressure, which in real life means it operates from 50 to 80 PSI. Some owners recommend an external air source for heavy cuts near the 1/4-inch maximum, where you might need more like 100 PSI.

Lincoln says the K2806-1 Tomahawk 375 Air Plasma Cutter ships ready to cut quickly, right out of the box. The bottom end at 10 amps lets you cut sheet metal, but you’ll need to move fast to avoid blowing edges off when cutting thin stuff. Dialing up to 25 amps will get you through 1/4-inch steel in a single pass to cut trailer frames and pipe fencing.

The Lincoln K2806-1 Tomahawk 375 Air Plasma Cutter is designed with all controls on the front panel to speed productivity. The airflow rate can be monitored and adjusted right on the front instead of having to lean around back like some other designs.

The Forney 250P Plus with the built-in air compressor is a lightweight plasma cutter for DIY workshop use and light duty jobs. Because it runs on 120 volt input, it can be plugged in to household current. It’s potentially useful for professionals making housecalls for appliance work or HVAC ducting repairs.

Equipped with drag torch arc starting, it’s easy to start and use but does have a delay time that makes it a problem for high-volume cutting. Once you pull the trigger, it takes a few seconds for the arc to start, then a few more seconds before it’s hot enough to start cutting. For separate cuts performed some time apart, this isn’t a huge concern, but the Forney 250P Plus isn’t suitable for frequent, fast cuts. However, it is designed to operate on so-called “dirty” generator power, so it can be used in remote locations.

Forney integrates an air dryer and pressure regulator right into the machine and this cutter is completely automatic with no controls to set up. At 43 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around and 12 amps will cut ⅛-inch steel plate. Forney designed a storage compartment for consumables into the case and backs the 250P Plus with a 3-year warranty.

Thermal Dynamics is a Hypertherm brand sold by ESAB, meaning these machines are industrial quality, aimed at professionals. That’s reflected in both the higher price range and the relatively conservative output rating. The AirCut 15C only weighs 29 pounds, exceptionally lightweight for a machine with a built-in air compressor on board. In fact, that’s about 50 percent of the average weight for a 15 amp plasma cutter. Thermal Dynamics claims a 25 percent higher cutting rate than any other plasma cutter in its class.

The Thermal Dynamics AirCut 15C will go right through 3/16-inch plate steel. The higher work capability, superior build quality and ESAB 1-year warranty justify the higher price range for professionals. This machine is rated with a 35 percent duty cycle at 15 amps. With a high cutting rate and a 50 percent duty cycle at 12 amps, a pro could really do a lot of cutting.

With its lightweight and 120 volt power source, the Thermal Dynamics AirCut 15C is suitable for professional craftsmen needing to work inside a customer’s home to do their job.