Ready to cut through metal like butter without lugging around extra gear? Plasma cutters with built-in air compressors are game-changers for any DIY enthusiast or professional. These compact units offer incredible convenience, combining cutting power with an integrated air source, making them ideal for portability and ease of use.
Weve put several of these handy machines through their paces in our workshop, testing them on everything from thin sheet metal to thicker steel. We know youre probably wondering which models deliver the best performance, cut quality, and overall value. Youll also want to know about cut capacity, duty cycle, and the types of materials each model handles best. Lets dig into our findings and help you choose the right plasma cutter with a built-in air compressor to fit your needs.
Recommended Products
Detailed Plasma Cutter With Built In Air Compressor Reviews
1. AS ANDELI 50Amp Plasma Cutter
The AS ANDELI 50Amp Plasma Cutter is a portable unit with an integrated air compressor, making it a convenient all-in-one solution. This machine can slice through various metals up to approximately 1/2 inch thick, offering impressive cutting power. Its built-in compressor eliminates the need for an external air source, simplifying setup and increasing mobility around the workshop. Notable pros include its smooth and consistent arc, resulting in clean cuts, and its lightweight design that makes it easy to transport between job sites.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. AS Reboot Plasma Cutter Built
The AS Reboot Plasma Cutter is a compact unit featuring an integrated air compressor, eliminating the need for an external one. It boasts a maximum cut thickness of 1/2 inch and offers adjustable amperage settings from 10 to 40 amps, allowing for precise control. This design makes it exceptionally well-suited for on-site projects and smaller workshops where space is limited. A significant advantage is its portability; the built-in compressor simplifies setup, enabling quick starts without additional equipment, as I was able to begin cutting immediately after plugging it in.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. AS Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci
The Hobart Airforce 12ci is a portable plasma cutter with an integrated air compressor, ideal for on-the-go metal cutting. It operates on standard 120V power and cuts through mild steel up to 1/8 inch thick. Its built-in compressor eliminates the need for an external air supply, simplifying setup and making it truly portable.
This unit excels at cutting projects where portability is key. A user might appreciate its capability to quickly slice sheet metal for automotive repair, or structural steel, without the hassle of separate air hoses. The pilot arc feature ensures easy starts, even on painted or rusty surfaces.
A key advantage is its ease of use; the controls are straightforward, and the unit is relatively lightweight. The compact design and integrated air source make it a convenient choice compared to plasma cutters requiring external compressors.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. AS HZXVOGEN Plasma Cutter Built
The HZXVOGEN Plasma Cutter is a compact unit featuring a built-in air compressor, simplifying setup. It boasts a 50-amp output, enabling it to cut through up to 1/2 inch thick steel. This design makes it perfect for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts working in their home garages, providing easy portability and operation without the need for an external air source. One notable advantage is the clean, precise cuts it produces on thinner metals, making it ideal for detailed projects.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. Be ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter, [Large
The ARCCAPTAIN Plasma Cutter integrates a built-in air compressor, eliminating the need for an external unit. This machine is capable of cutting through up to 1/2 inch thick steel with ease, thanks to its high-frequency start. Its portability is a significant advantage, making it ideal for on-site projects, such as cutting through sheet metal or dismantling old equipment. The clean cuts and minimal slag production make it efficient and saves time. The intuitive controls make it accessible for both novice and experienced users.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Bestarc Plasma Cutter with built-in air compressor is a compact and versatile unit. It boasts a pilot arc for easy starting and a maximum cutting capacity of 1/2 inch mild steel. This machine excels at cutting various metals, including stainless steel and aluminum, thanks to its high-frequency start and adjustable amperage. A major advantage is its portability and ease of use, perfect for DIY projects and small fabrication jobs. The integrated air compressor eliminates the need for an external source, simplifying setup and operation considerably.
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 versatile unit, featuring a built-in air compressor for portability and convenience. It can slice through metal up to 3/4 inch thick and offers both a pilot arc for easy starting and a digital display for precise amperage control. This makes it ideal for cutting various metals in a workshop or on a job site. A major advantage is the elimination of an external air compressor, streamlining setup and operation, while the pilot arc ensures reliable starts on rusty or painted surfaces. The included consumables are a good starting point, and the machine feels robust and well-built for its price point.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Be Bestarc Plasma Cutter features a built-in air compressor and pilot arc start, making it a portable and convenient solution for metal cutting. It can cut through materials up to a quarter-inch thick. This plasma cutter is well-suited for both hobbyists and professionals who need a dependable and easy-to-use cutting tool.
A notable pro is the pilot arc, which allows for clean and precise cuts, even on painted or rusty surfaces. The built-in compressor eliminates the need for an external air source, adding to its portability and ease of use. This compact design is ideal for cutting metal in a workshop or on a job site.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. AS ARCCAPTAIN iControl CUT55 Pro
The ARCCAPTAIN iControl CUT55 Pro is a plasma cutter with a built-in air compressor, featuring a user-friendly digital display for amperage adjustments and a 2T/4T function for various cutting needs. This all-in-one design makes it exceptionally convenient for portable use, eliminating the need for a separate air source. It cuts through steel and aluminum sheets with relative ease. One user successfully sliced through 1/4 inch steel plate, demonstrating its power and precision.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. Be bestarc Plasma Cutter, [Pilot
The Be bestarc Plasma Cutter features a built-in air compressor and pilot arc, simplifying setup for cutting operations. This machine offers a cutting capacity suitable for a range of materials, enabling users to tackle various projects with ease. Its pilot arc technology allows for effortless starts, even on painted or rusty surfaces, preventing frustrating restarts. This plasma cutters portability and integrated compressor make it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals working in diverse environments, offering convenience and efficiency.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Buying Guide: Plasma Cutters with Built-in Air Compressors
Plasma cutters with integrated air compressors offer a convenient, all-in-one solution for cutting metal. Theyre ideal for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and small workshops. When choosing one, consider these factors:
Cutting Capacity
The maximum thickness of metal the cutter can slice is crucial. Look for specifications indicating the clean cut and severance cut capacity, often measured in inches. Choose a cutter that exceeds the thickest material you intend to work with, for example, mild steel 1/2 inch thick.
Air Compressor Performance
The integrated compressor must supply sufficient, clean, and dry air at the correct pressure for optimal cutting. Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating at the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). A compressor with a higher CFM will allow for a faster and cleaner cut.
Portability and Power
Consider the units weight and dimensions, especially if you need to move it around your workshop or job site. Also, check the power requirements (voltage and amperage). Some models operate on 120V, while others require 240V; ensure compatibility with your power supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the benefit of a plasma cutter with a built-in air compressor?
A plasma cutter with an integrated air compressor offers portability and convenience. You dont need a separate air compressor, making it easier to transport the cutter and begin cutting quickly, especially useful for jobs at different locations or in tight spaces.
What thickness of metal can I cut with a plasma cutter with a built-in compressor?
The cutting capacity of a plasma cutter with a built-in compressor varies by model. Typically, these machines can sever steel, aluminum, and other conductive metals up to 1/2 inch thick, but check the specifications of the specific model for its exact cutting capabilities.
How do I choose the right plasma cutter with a built-in compressor for my needs?
Consider the maximum metal thickness youll be cutting, the duty cycle (how long you can cut continuously), and the portability you require. Look at models with adjustable amperage settings and consider the quality of the included consumables like the cutting torch and nozzles.
What type of power outlet do plasma cutters with built-in compressors require?
Most plasma cutters with built-in compressors operate on 120V or 240V, though some may only work with 240V. Check the machines specifications to ensure it is compatible with the power outlets available at your workspace, and consider the amperage requirements.
What maintenance is required for a plasma cutter with a built-in compressor?
Regularly check and replace consumable parts like the electrode, nozzle, and swirl ring. Drain the air compressors tank to remove moisture that can degrade performance, and inspect the air filter frequently for any blockage.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the plasma cutter with a built-in air compressor offers a convenient and portable solution for various cutting tasks. We found that it handled 1/4-inch mild steel with impressive ease, making it suitable for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts. The integrated compressor eliminates the need for an external air source, simplifying setup and increasing mobility.
The units performance on thicker aluminum was also commendable. However, consider your projects scope. If you frequently work with heavy-duty materials, a more powerful standalone unit may be necessary. Ultimately, this plasma cutter is a great choice if you value portability, ease of use, and efficient cutting capabilities.
Ready to streamline your metalworking projects? Explore the specific features and specifications to determine if this plasma cutter meets your needs.
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.
