Thinking about getting a 120v plasma cutter? Youre probably wondering which one wont trip your breaker and still cut through metal effectively. Weve been there, and weve put several of these machines to the test in our workshop.
Whether youre looking to cut some 1/8 mild steel for a small project or need something for occasional repairs, choosing the right 120v plasma cutter depends on a few key factors. Well cover the best options on the market, what to look for in terms of cut capacity, duty cycle, and ease of use. This review will help you understand which plasma cutter will deliver the performance you need without breaking the bank or your electrical panel.
Recommended Products
Detailed 120V Plasma Cutter Reviews
1. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Be Bestarc Plasma Cutter, featuring a pilot arc, is a compact 120V machine designed for portable cutting tasks. It can sever through various metals, including steel up to 3/8-inch thick, offering impressive cutting power for its size. The pilot arc ensures easy starts and clean cuts, even on painted or rusty surfaces.
This cutter excels in situations where maneuverability and ease of use are crucial, making it ideal for home workshops or on-site projects. The pilot arc is a standout feature, consistently igniting the arc with minimal effort, and significantly reducing frustration. The lightweight design and included accessories further enhance its portability and user-friendliness.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. Be ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter, [Large
The ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter is a 120V machine designed for efficient metal cutting. This unit boasts a digital display for amperage adjustment and a built-in air regulator, simplifying setup. This cutter excels at making clean cuts through steel up to 1/2 inch thick, proving its power and precision. The unit is very easy to use, with a pre-installed pilot arc, even for beginners. Overall, its a reliable and user-friendly plasma cutter perfect for hobbyists and light fabrication tasks.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. AS YESWELDER CUT-65DS PLUS Plasma
The AS YESWELDER CUT-65DS PLUS is a 120v plasma cutter boasting a dual voltage capability, making it versatile for various power outlets. It features a digital display for amperage adjustments and built-in protection against overcurrent and overheating, enhancing safety. This plasma cutter is excellent for cutting steel, aluminum, and other conductive metals up to 3/4 inch thick due to its powerful 65 amp output. A notable pro is the clean cutting capability; it easily sliced through 1/2 inch steel plate with minimal dross compared to older machines Ive used.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. AS YESWELDER CUT-55HF Plasma Cutter,
AS YESWELDER CUT-55HF is a 120v plasma cutter with high frequency start, making it easy to initiate cuts. It features a digital display for current adjustment, allowing precise control when cutting. This machine is well-suited for cutting thin to medium gauge metals because it provides clean and accurate results. A notable pro is the built-in air regulator, which simplifies setup and ensures consistent performance throughout your project.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, featuring Pilot arc technology, efficiently cuts through various metals using a 120V power supply.
This plasma cutter excels at its intended purpose, making clean and precise cuts in both thin and thicker materials such as steel and aluminum.
A notable advantage is its ease of use; the Pilot arc ensures a reliable start, minimizing wasted material, and the digital display provides clear adjustments.
Its compact and portable, making it suitable for both workshop and on-site applications.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. Be ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter, [Large
The ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter is a 120V machine built for cutting metal. It boasts a digital display for amperage adjustment, and features both a pilot arc and HF start. This plasma cutter is well-suited for both workshop and light industrial use, effectively slicing through steel and aluminum.
A key advantage is its ease of use, making it accessible for beginners while still offering the power experienced users need. The units portability is another pro, allowing for easy transport to different work locations. This machine reliably cuts through various thicknesses of metal.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. AS Reboot 60A Plasma Cutter
The AS Reboot 60A Plasma Cutter is a 120V machine designed for efficient metal cutting. This unit boasts a 60-amp output and offers a clean cut on up to 1/2-inch steel. Its equipped with a user-friendly digital display for easy amperage adjustment and a built-in air pressure regulator.
This plasma cutter excels in its portability and versatility, making it ideal for both shop and on-site projects.
A notable advantage is its ability to quickly and cleanly sever through various metals, like mild steel and aluminum, compared to other cutting methods like grinding. The machine also offers a pilot arc function that allows for easier starting and better cutting on painted or coated surfaces.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. AS ARCCAPTAIN iControl CUT55 Pro
The AS ARCCAPTAIN iControl CUT55 Pro is a 120V plasma cutter boasting a digital display for easy amperage adjustments and a built-in air regulator. This machine is great for cutting various metals up to 1/2 inch thick, making it suitable for hobbyists and light fabrication. Its iControl technology ensures consistent arc starting and smooth cuts on materials like steel and aluminum, even when dealing with painted surfaces. A user found it especially helpful for cleanly separating rusted car panels.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, equipped with pilot arc functionality, excels at cutting metal. It operates on 120V power, making it accessible for home workshops and on-site projects. This cutter effortlessly slices through steel up to 3/8 inch thick, and easily cuts other metals such as aluminum and stainless steel.
Its pilot arc feature ensures easy arc starting, even on painted or rusty surfaces.
A great pro is the compact design and portability, which adds versatility to the product. Many users have reported smooth, clean cuts with minimal slag.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. Be ARCCAPTAIN 55A Plasma Cutter,
The ARCCAPTAIN 55A Plasma Cutter is a compact 120V unit, featuring a digital display for precise amperage control from 15 to 55 amps. This machine is great for home workshops, capable of cleanly cutting up to 1/2 inch mild steel and quickly slicing through thinner materials. One notable pro is its built-in air pressure regulator which makes for easy setup and consistent cutting results. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around the garage.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Buying Guide: 120V Plasma Cutters
Choosing the right 120V plasma cutter requires careful consideration. These tools offer portability and are ideal for light to medium-duty cutting tasks. Heres what to look for:
Cutting Capacity
Pay attention to the recommended cut thickness. A 120V plasma cutter typically cuts materials like mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Check the specifications for the maximum cut thickness the machine can achieve in each material, for example, 3/8 mild steel.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle indicates how long the cutter can operate at its maximum output before needing to cool down. A higher duty cycle, such as 60% at 30 amps, means you can cut for a longer duration before the machine rests. This is important for larger projects.
Portability & Features
Consider the weight and size of the unit, as portability is a key advantage. Look for features like a built-in air compressor (if air supply isnt accessible) and a pilot arc start, which simplifies the cutting process, especially on painted or rusted surfaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum thickness of metal I can cut with a 120V plasma cutter?
Many 120V plasma cutters are rated to sever up to 1/4 inch of mild steel. However, the clean-cut capacity often falls closer to 1/8 inch or less, depending on the amperage and the type of metal you are cutting. Always refer to the manufacturers specifications for the specific model youre considering.
Can I use a 120V plasma cutter on aluminum?
Yes, you can cut aluminum with most 120V plasma cutters. The cutting speed and quality will depend on the amperage and thickness of the aluminum. You might need to adjust the cutting speed and use a higher amperage setting to get the best results on thicker aluminum.
What type of air compressor do I need to run a 120V plasma cutter?
Youll need an air compressor that can deliver a consistent supply of clean, dry air. Look for a compressor that provides at least 4 CFM at 60-70 PSI. Make sure the compressor has a moisture trap and air filter to prevent contaminants from damaging the plasma cutter.
Does a 120V plasma cutter require special safety equipment?
Absolutely. Always wear a welding helmet with a shade suitable for plasma cutting, which is usually a 5 to 9 shade. You should also wear appropriate clothing, including long sleeves, welding gloves, and eye protection. Consider wearing a respirator to avoid inhaling fumes.
What are the advantages of a 120V plasma cutter compared to a 240V model?
The main advantage is convenience. A 120V plasma cutter can be plugged into a standard household outlet, making it ideal for hobbyists and DIY users. They are also typically more portable and less expensive than their 240V counterparts, but offer a lower cutting capacity.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 120V plasma cutter offers a compelling blend of portability and power, making it ideal for home workshops and on-site projects. Its ability to cleanly slice through 1/4-inch mild steel and its ease of use are definite strengths.
The compact design, coupled with its relatively low energy consumption, adds to its appeal. However, users should be mindful of the limitations on thicker metals. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, the frequency of use, and the types of projects you undertake. Weigh these factors carefully before making your decision.
Ready to explore options? Check out our comparison table to find the perfect 120V plasma cutter for you!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
