Best Plasma Cutter Under 500 in 2024: Reviews + Buying Guide

Whether you are taking on a big DIY project or need to do automotive work, a plasma cutter can be incredibly useful. In this article we will take a close look at several products that have a lot to offer. The following reviews will help you select the best plasma cutter under 500 dollars.

Our top choice is the LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter, which features a 110/120 dual voltage design. This ensures versatile performance to match all of your needs no matter what.

This model is also incredibly easy to set up and use. It features a digital current display, as well as a number of responsive controls.

Before you decide on a certain plasma cutter, we encourage you to learn about the following products.

How We Picked The Best Plasma Cutter Under 500

As we put together our list, there were many different things we took into consideration. We made a point of looking for models that offer a versatile design.

You’ll find that each of the machines below is capable of cutting a wide range of materials. They enable clean and smooth cuts with impressive precision.

These plasma cutters are also very easy to use and can be set up in a minute or less. They feature simple designs with responsive buttons for maximum convenience. This will ultimately save you a lot of hassle and frustration over time.

A Spotlight On Some of The Best Plasma Cutter Under 500 in 2024:

HEROCUT CUT35 Plasma Cutting Machine

The HEROCUT CUT35 boasts a 110-volt, 35-amp design with IGBT inverter technology. This ensures an extended usable life, as well as maximum efficiency for the best overall performance.

You can use this machine to make clean cuts at a thickness of six millimeters. It allows for cuts up to 10 millimeters thick. It is specifically designed to cut through alloy steel, stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals. This makes it one of the most versatile options available on the market right now.

The current is displayed on the front of the machine. The current knob allows you to make quick and easy adjustments with no hassle whatsoever. There is also an earth clamp, torch switch, and AIR/CUT button. On the back you will find the power switch, input power cable, air in, and ground.

We also like the 2T/4T function that this machine offers. The air continues running after you are done cutting to lower the temperature of the torch. This drastically reduces the chances of internal damage, thereby extending its operating life considerably.

One of our favorite things about this machine is its excellent heat dissipation. It features an automatic cooling fan as well as a vent. This does wonders for keeping the internal components at a safe temperature while you are working. You won’t have to worry about any damage from overheating. There is also integrated overload and over-current protection.

There is a handle on top that is very helpful when transporting this plasma cutter. Unlike so many other models, this one isn’t overly heavy or bulky. This makes it easy to travel with and store, which is a nice convenience.

Pros:

• Simple overall design makes it easy for anyone to use
• Handle on top of machine for smooth and easy transportation
• Versatile design lets you cut through a variety of materials
• Auto cooling fan and vent keep machine cool to prevent damage
• Built-in overload and over-current protection extends machine’s life
• Comes with everything you need to start cutting

Cons:

• Some customers say that fitting for regulator are a bit loose

 

Bestarc BTC500DP Plasma Cutter

The Bestarc BTC500DP Plasma Cutter features a pilot arc function for touchless cutting. This allows you to cut thicker materials, including rusted steel.

You can make cuts up to 12 millimeters at 110 volts and 35 amps at 40 PSI, or up to 16 millimeters at 22 volts and 50 amps at 60 PSI.

There is a 2T/4T button that lets you alternate between semi-automatic and automatic cutting. All you have to do is select the setting you want and hold down on the torch switch to get started. This easy to use design is just one of the reasons we put this machine our best plasma cutter under 500 list.

On the front panel you will find an air gauge and regulator. The air gauge allows you to read the air pressure value at any time. You can adjust the pressure from 40 to 70 PSI as needed. There is also a current display at 100 volts within a range of 10 to 35 amps. At 200 volts, it ranges from 10 to 50 amps.

You can also adjust the post time function from 2 to 15 seconds. This allows the torch to cool down after you are finished cutting. It is an extremely beneficial feature that will help extend the life of the machine throughout the years.

With built-in overload and over-current protection, the BTC500DP is designed for safety. This design also helps keep the machine running smoothly over the long term.

This machine has a total weight of 22 pounds and features a carrying handle for easy transportation. It is a fairly compact model that you should have no issues travelling with.

Pros:

• Overload and over-current protection built in for safety
• Powerful but quiet for reduced noise while working
• Allows you to make cuts up to 16 millimeters thick
• Switch between 2T and 4T settings with the push of a button
• Post-time torch head cooling keeps machine working well for years
• Uses IGBT Inverter Technology to ensure high efficiency performance

Cons:

• It might take a little while to get air pressure adjusted perfectly

 

LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter

The LOTOS LTP5000D Plasma Cutter features a new PCD board and torch for enhanced overall performance. You can expect more power for easier and smoother cutting capabilities. It is specifically designed for making perfect cuts with a high degree of precision.

We really like that this machine can be set up in as little as one minute. It features a standard ¼-inch NPT type-D plug, as well as an air filter regulator. The regular is mounted on the front of the machine and is designed to prevent leaks.

You’ll find that the front panel has a very simple and straightforward design. It features an air pressure gauge and voltage control dial. There is also a brightly lit current display that is always easy to read.

You can achieve ideal clean cuts up to 5/8” at 10 to 50 amps, or 3/8” and max severance cut of ½” at 110/120 volts. This plasma cutter allows you to cut through a variety of materials and textures with maximum efficiency.

This includes stainless steel, mild steel, alloy steel, aluminum, and copper. The pilot arc design enables touchless cutting.

Measuring 15 by 6 by 12 inches with a weight of just under 20 pounds, this machine is relatively compact. It features a handle on top to make transportation a breeze.

When you purchase this machine, you will receive a plasma torch, power supply, ground clamp, air filter regulator, type D plug, consumables, and a detailed instruction manual.

If you are looking for a model that enables smooth and clean cuts, this one is definitely worth taking a close look at. Whether you are a hobbyist, DIY fanatic, or small business owner, the LTP5000D has a lot to offer overall.

Pros:

• Upgraded design includes PCD board for smooth and precise cutting
• Simple overall design makes it incredibly easy to set up and use
• Allows for making ideal clean cuts up to 5/8”
• Capable of easily cutting through stainless steel, aluminum, copper and more
• Air filter regulator is specifically designed to prevent leaks while working
• Comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and one year warranty

Cons:

• Ground clamp is a bit short

 

ARCCAPTAIN CUT50 AIR HF Plasma Cutter

The ARCCAPTAIN CUT50 AIR HF Plasma Cutter delivers powerful cutting capabilities with a 110/220 dual voltage design.

It also features impressive IGBT inverter technology for amazing versatility. You can make ideal clean cuts up to ½ inches or 10 millimeters, and a max severance cut of ¾ inches.

This machine allows you to cut stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, aluminum, and copper. You’ll find that it is easy to set up as well. The air filter connector and integrated regular enable near effortless installation. In fact, you can begin cutting within just 30 seconds.

On the front of this model you’ll see a bright LED display that shows the input voltage. There are also buttons that allow you to access preferences and select operation mode with ease. The red dial allows you to choose the current that you want to work with. Each of these controls is very responsive.

The dual voltage design of this plasma cutter lets you switch back and forth as needed. This makes it easier to get your work done more efficiently with smooth and clean cuts every single time.

We particularly like the post-time function, which keeps the air running after you are finished cutting. You can set it to run for 5 to 15 seconds. This makes a big difference when it comes to protecting the torch and preventing damage over time.

When you purchase the CUT50 AIR HF Plasma Cutter, you will receive a torch, earth clamp, air hose, should strap, electrode nozzle, diverter, and ceramic cup. It also comes with a user manual with easy to follow instructions. If you are seeking out the best plasma cutter under 500, this one is a great overall choice.

Pros:

• Features bright easy to read LED display for input voltage
• Intuitive front panel design with responsive controls
• Cooling fan prevents overheating and damage to unit over time
• Dual voltage design offers ideal performance to match your exact needs
• Great for working with a variety of materials from stainless steel to copper
• Lightweight and portable with carrying handle for convenient transportation

Cons:

• Not quite as powerful as some other models on the market

 

S7 JH-1 CUT50 Plasma Cutter

The S7 JH-1 CUT50 Plasma Cutter gives you plenty of power for making perfect cuts with ease. You can expect smooth results that do not require any polishing. This will ultimately help save you a lot of time and frustration.

This machine features an LCD display on the front panel that shows the current. There are a number of easy to use controls for convenient operation. You’ll never have to use an external conversion plug, which is a huge plus. This makes getting your work done much easier overall.

You’ll be able to make ideal cuts within a thickness range of 0.5 to 8 millimeters, and a max severance cut depth of 12 millimeters. It is perfect for cutting alloy steel, stainless steel, mild steel, copper, aluminum, and much more. You can make cuts up to 20 millimeters, which is impressive to say the least.

One of the best things about this particular model is that it automatically adapts to input power of 90 to 260 volts. This virtually guarantees ideal results on a consistent basis. You can therefore always count on it to deliver excellent performance.

The sheer durability of this machine is also very impressive. It can withstand extremely high and low temperatures, as well as dust and low to medium impacts. It’s also fairly quiet compared to most other plasma cutters on the market today.

With a total weight of 19.21 pounds and a carrying handle on top, this machine can be transported with ease. It is compact and doesn’t take up much space.

When trying to find the best plasma cutter under 500, the S7 JH-1 is definitely an excellent overall option to consider. You will receive everything needed to begin cutting. This machine’s simple and user friendly design makes it easy to set up and use.

Pros:

• Versatile design makes it capable of cutting a wide range of tough materials
• Automatically adapts to a wide voltage range to meet all of your cutting needs
• LCD current display is bright and easy to read
• Allows for making cuts up to 20 millimeters thick with minimal effort
• Compact and lightweight design with carrying handle to make transporting easier
• Extremely durable construction is heat, cold, and impact resistant

Cons:

• Some customers say that cables included with machine aren’t very sturdy

 

Best Plasma Cutter Under 500 Buying Guide

When you need to find the best plasma cutter under 500, there are lots of factors to consider. The following list will help you narrow down your options efficiently.

Cutting Capabilities

The very best plasma cutter under 500 will allow you to make reasonably thick cuts to match your needs. It is important that you look at the amps and voltage of each model before making a final decision.

We highly recommend looking into machines that have a dual voltage design. This virtually guarantees that you will be able to make cuts at an ideal thickness.

You should pay attention to models with an output of at least 25 amps. The higher this number is, the thicker you will be able to cut.

Make sure that you select a machine that allows you to cut a wide range of materials. Most models on the market today are compatible with stainless steel, alloy steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper, and others.

Take some time to consider your cutting needs so you can choose a machine that is perfect. A truly powerful plasma cutter will allow you to make ideal clean cuts up to 5/8”.

Safety

There are also certain safety features that you should look for in the best plasma cutter under 500. This includes built in over-current and overvoltage protection. If you want to get years of flawless use out of your machine, it is important to keep this in mind.

Durability

You should also consider the overall durability of each machine. Look for models that are reasonably sturdy and can withstand extremely high and low temperatures.

We recommend buying a machine that is also impact resistant. This will help you get lots of use out of yours with minimal issues.

Ease of Use

Don’t forget to look for machines that have a user friendly overall design. You should be able to set up your new machine within a minute or less.

Take a look at the front panel on each one as well. You’ll want to buy a plasma cutter that features a digital current display, as well as several responsive controls.

Conclusion

We highly recommend that you look for a plasma cutter that has a powerful and versatile design. It should allow you to work with stainless steel, alloy steel, copper, aluminum, and other materials.

It’s also important to look for models that enable smooth and clean cuts without any unnecessary hassle. Feel free to comment below so we know what you think about our list and don’t forget to check out other reviews too.

By the way, if you found this guide helpful, check out our in-depth review of cordless saw for cutting tree branches.