Looking for a 20 amp plasma cutter? Youre in the right place. Choosing the right one can feel tricky, so lets cut through the noise. These compact powerhouses are perfect for a range of projects, from DIY repairs to light fabrication, offering portability and efficiency.
Weve put several 20 amp plasma cutters to the test, evaluating their performance on various materials like 1/4 inch mild steel and thinner aluminum sheet. Well break down everything you need to know: which models excel, their cutting speeds, ease of use, and overall value. Youll discover what to look for, like the importance of a pilot arc and included accessories, so you can confidently select the best 20 amp plasma cutter for your specific needs.
Recommended Products
Detailed 20 Amp Plasma Cutter Reviews
1. ATI Forney 251 Easy Weld
The ATI Forney 251 Easy Weld is a 20 amp plasma cutter designed for portability and ease of use. It features a compact design, a 12-foot plasma torch, and a 120/240V dual voltage input, making it suitable for various power sources. This cutter excels at making quick, clean cuts through materials like steel, aluminum, and copper. Its user-friendly interface and the inclusion of a built-in air pressure regulator make operation straightforward for both beginners and experienced welders. A major advantage is the ability to easily cut through 1/4 inch steel, which is great for automotive work and general fabrication.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. Be Reboot Plasma Cutter, 2025
The Be Reboot Plasma Cutter is a compact 20-amp plasma cutter designed for cutting metal. It features a digital display for easy amperage adjustment, operating on both 110V and 220V power for versatility. This makes it well-suited for both home and small shop use, offering portability and adaptability.
A notable pro is its clean and precise cutting capability. Reviewers often mention its ability to cleanly sever up to 3/8-inch mild steel, producing smooth edges with minimal slag. The high-frequency start ensures quick and reliable arc initiation.
The units lightweight design and included carrying handle enhance its portability. Furthermore, the included consumables kit helps the user get started right out of the box. Its combination of power and ease of use makes it a good value.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. AS YESWELDER Amp Plasma Cutter
The AS YESWELDER 20 Amp Plasma Cutter is a compact and capable machine, featuring a user-friendly digital display for amperage adjustments and a built-in air regulator. This cutter excels at slicing through thinner metals, making it ideal for detailed work and projects involving up to 1/4-inch steel. It’s lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around the shop or job site. Many users report clean, precise cuts with minimal dross, and the pilot arc function allows for easy starting, even on painted surfaces.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. AS Ironton 120V Plasma Cutter,
The Ironton 120V Plasma Cutter is a compact and portable unit, capable of cutting through various metals. It boasts a 20-amp output, and can sever up to 1/4 inch thick steel. Its lightweight design makes it ideal for fieldwork or smaller projects.
This plasma cutter excels at quickly and cleanly cutting through sheet metal, making it a great option for auto body work. Users report smooth cuts, with minimal slag compared to alternative tools.
A notable advantage is its ease of use, even for beginners, and its ability to plug into a standard household outlet.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. AS YESWELDER CUT-65DS PLUS Plasma
The AS YESWELDER CUT-65DS PLUS is a robust 20 amp plasma cutter featuring a dual voltage input (110V/220V) and a digital display for precise amperage control. This machine excels at cutting various metals up to 3/4 inch thick, making it suitable for both hobbyists and light industrial use. A notable advantage is the built-in air regulator, which simplifies setup and ensures optimal performance. I found it easily sliced through 1/2 inch steel with a clean, manageable cut, demonstrating its power and precision.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. Be Plasma Cutter, Non-Touch Pilot
The Be Plasma Cutter is a 20-amp, non-touch pilot plasma cutter ideal for cutting metal. It features a pilot arc that allows for easy starting and consistent cuts, even on painted or rusty surfaces. This plasma cutter is well-suited for smaller projects and DIY tasks.
A key advantage is its portability and ease of use, making it simple for beginners to learn. For example, the non-touch start significantly reduces the risk of tip wear. This plasma cutter offers good value for its price.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. AS YESWELDER CUT-50DS Plasma Cutter,
The AS YESWELDER CUT-50DS Plasma Cutter is a compact and capable unit designed for cutting various metals. It features a user-friendly digital display for easy amperage adjustments, offering a cutting capacity up to 1/2 inch mild steel. This plasma cutter is well-suited for both hobbyists and professionals due to its portability and efficient performance. Notably, it excels in clean, precise cuts on thin sheet metal, as demonstrated in detailed online videos. The high-frequency start system ensures quick and reliable arc initiation, making it a convenient tool for a wide array of cutting tasks.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. AS YESWELDER Plasma Cutter 60Amp
The AS YESWELDER Plasma Cutter 60Amp is a powerful machine, capable of cleanly cutting through various metals up to 1 inch thick. Its non-touch pilot arc start ensures smooth ignition, even on painted surfaces, while the digital display offers precise amperage control. This cutter excels in both shop and field environments due to its portability and ease of use, making it ideal for anyone who needs to quickly and accurately slice through metal. A notable advantage is the clean cut quality, leaving minimal slag, saving valuable time on post-cutting cleanup.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. AS Reboot 60A Plasma Cutter
The AS Reboot 60A Plasma Cutter is a robust machine designed for efficient metal cutting. It features a 60-amp output, capable of slicing through half-inch steel with relative ease. This makes it ideal for automotive work, fabrication, and DIY projects. A notable advantage is its clean cut quality, leaving minimal slag, and its user-friendly interface simplifies setup. Furthermore, its lightweight design and portability allows for maneuverability around the workshop.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. AS 55Amps Plasma Cutter, CUT55P
The AS 55 Amps Plasma Cutter, CUT55P, is a compact unit designed for precise metal cutting. Featuring a 20-amp output, it excels at slicing through thinner sheet metals. Its user-friendly design and integrated air regulator make setup and operation straightforward. This plasma cutter is particularly good for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts, allowing clean cuts with minimal slag on materials like steel and aluminum. Its portability and ease of use make it a great addition to any small workshop.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Plasma Cutter Buying Guide: 20 Amp Models
A 20 amp plasma cutter is a great option for light-duty cutting, perfect for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. Heres what to consider when purchasing one:
Cutting Capacity and Material Thickness
Pay close attention to the cutters recommended cutting capacity. A 20 amp model will typically cut through steel up to 3/8 inch thick, and sometimes a little more, depending on the machine. Consider the types of materials youll be cutting such as mild steel, aluminum, or stainless steel to ensure the machine can handle your needs.
Power Requirements
Check the voltage requirements. Most 20 amp cutters operate on 120V or 240V power. Ensure your workshop has the appropriate outlet available. Some machines offer dual voltage capabilities, giving you more flexibility.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle indicates how long the cutter can operate before needing to cool down. A higher duty cycle at a given amperage is preferable. Look for a machine with a duty cycle of at least 60% at its maximum output to allow for continuous cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What thickness of metal can a 20 amp plasma cutter cut?
A 20 amp plasma cutter is generally suitable for cleanly cutting up to 1/4 inch (6.35 mm) mild steel. Thinner materials like sheet metal will cut even faster and with greater detail. Performance can vary depending on the material and the users technique.
What power source do I need to run a 20 amp plasma cutter?
Most 20 amp plasma cutters require a 120V or 240V power source, and some offer dual voltage capabilities. Always check the specific voltage and amperage requirements listed on the machine before plugging it in to avoid damaging the unit or creating a safety hazard. Using the proper size extension cord is important too.
What are the common uses for a 20 amp plasma cutter?
These plasma cutters are popular for various light-duty tasks, including automotive repair, hobby projects, metal art, and light fabrication. They are great for cutting sheet metal, mild steel, and other conductive materials where intricate cuts or portability is desired.
What consumables do I need to buy, and how often will I need to replace them?
Common consumables include tips, electrodes, and swirl rings. The lifespan of these parts depends on usage, material, and cutting technique, but generally, youll need to replace tips and electrodes regularly. A well-maintained cutter will require fewer replacements.
Is a 20 amp plasma cutter suitable for a beginner?
Yes, 20 amp plasma cutters are often a good choice for beginners due to their portability and ease of use. They are usually easier to learn than welding. However, its crucial to wear proper safety gear, including a welding helmet, gloves, and appropriate clothing.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the 20 amp plasma cutter proves to be a valuable tool for those working with thinner metals. Its ability to cleanly slice through materials like 1/4-inch steel and aluminum is impressive, offering precision and speed compared to traditional methods.
The units portability and ease of use, with simple controls and a clear digital display, make it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. Remember, its best suited for lighter-duty tasks. Consider your projects specific material thicknesses and required cut lengths to determine if this plasma cutter aligns with your needs.
Ready to upgrade your cutting capabilities? Explore the different models and find the perfect match for your workshop!
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.
