Looking to get into CNC plasma cutting? Youre in the right place! Weve been hands-on with a range of portable CNC plasma cutters, putting them through their paces on various materials. Our goal? To help you find the perfect machine for your needs. Well be answering your biggest questions: How easy are these cutters to set up and use? What kind of cut quality can you expect? And, critically, which models offer the best value for your money?
Well cover the key features to consider, like cutting area, power supply, and software compatibility, so you can confidently choose a cutter that fits your projects and budget. We break down the pros and cons of several top-rated machines, comparing their performance, ease of use, and overall build quality. Lets get started and find the ideal portable CNC plasma cutter for you!
Recommended Products
Detailed Portable Cnc Plasma Cutter Reviews
1. AS Portable CNC Cutting Machine
The AS Portable CNC Cutting Machine is a compact plasma cutter equipped with a 600mm x 600mm cutting area and uses a standard plasma torch. Its key feature is its portability, allowing for on-site fabrication. This machine is well-suited for cutting various metals, including mild steel and aluminum up to 12mm thick, making it great for small workshops.
A notable advantage is its ease of use; the software is user-friendly, allowing even beginners to quickly create cutting paths. Its construction appears robust, suggesting durability during transport and operation. The unit offers a versatile and accessible solution for precise metal cutting tasks on the go.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. AS Portable CNC Flame/Plasma Cutting
The AS Portable CNC Flame/Plasma Cutting machine is a compact and versatile unit. It boasts a cutting area suitable for small to medium-sized projects and features a user-friendly control panel with pre-programmed cutting parameters. This makes it ideal for hobbyists and small businesses needing precise cuts on various metal sheets.
Its portability allows for on-site projects and reduces the need to transport materials. The machines accuracy is commendable, producing clean and precise cuts in materials like mild steel, even on intricate designs. Its also relatively easy to set up and operate, saving considerable time and effort compared to manual cutting methods.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. AS LOTOS LTP6300DCNC 63AMP Non-Touch
The AS LOTOS LTP6300DCNC is a portable CNC plasma cutter, boasting a 63-amp output and non-touch arc start. This feature allows for easy and efficient cutting operations. Its compact size and CNC compatibility make it ideal for detailed metalwork projects and automated cutting tasks. A notable pro is the cutters ability to slice through various metals with precision, allowing one to cut through half-inch mild steel. Overall, the AS LOTOS LTP6300DCNC represents a solid choice for small workshops and hobbyists seeking a reliable plasma cutting solution.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. Be SILATU Plasma Cutter, 85Amps
The Be SILATU Plasma Cutter offers powerful 85-amp cutting capability, ideal for swiftly slicing through metal. It features a digital display for easy amperage adjustment and a built-in air regulator, simplifying setup. This units compact and portable design makes it excellent for on-site projects and smaller workshops where space is limited. Notable pros include its clean cuts on steel up to 1/2 inch thick and its ease of use, even for beginners, making it a valuable tool for both professionals and hobbyists.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. AS Circle Cutter Plasma Cutter
The AS Circle Cutter Plasma Cutter is a compact, portable CNC plasma cutting system. It features a built-in circle cutting capability, allowing for precise circular cuts from 30mm to 1000mm in diameter. This portability, combined with the integrated circle cutting function, makes it excellent for cutting sheet metal in various shapes directly on the job site. A notable advantage is the ease of use; even those new to plasma cutting can quickly learn to operate it, as demonstrated by several positive user reviews about its intuitive controls. Overall, its a solid choice for metal fabrication tasks requiring portability and circular cutting capabilities.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. Acer RIVERWELD SG-55 AG-60 Plasma
The Acer RIVERWELD SG-55 AG-60 is a portable CNC plasma cutter, featuring a robust 55-amp output and the AG-60 torch for efficient cutting. This cutter is designed for metal fabrication tasks, easily slicing through various materials like steel and aluminum.
Its portability makes it ideal for on-site projects, while the CNC compatibility offers increased precision. A significant advantage is its ability to handle thicknesses up to 3/4 inch, allowing for a wide range of cutting applications.
The arc initiation is reliable, and the overall build quality seems durable. The ease of use, coupled with its power, makes it a great choice for both hobbyists and professionals. I was able to quickly create several intricate designs with minimal setup time.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. TS Carvera Air Desktop CNC
The TS Carvera Air Desktop CNC is a compact portable plasma cutter featuring a cutting area of 200mm x 200mm and a built-in air compressor. Its designed for cutting various metals like steel and aluminum, using a precise plasma arc.
This CNC machine excels in its portability and ease of use, making it ideal for hobbyists or small workshops. A notable advantage is the integrated air compressor, eliminating the need for an external setup, a significant convenience. The software is straightforward, simplifying the design process and allowing for quick setup for new projects.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. AS Reboot Plasma Cutter Built
The AS Reboot Plasma Cutter is a portable CNC machine designed for cutting metal. It boasts a cutting area of 2×2 and a maximum cutting thickness of 1/2 inch mild steel, making it suitable for various fabrication projects. This cutter excels at precision work thanks to its integrated CNC control and ease of use. A notable benefit is its ability to create intricate designs with smooth edges, as demonstrated in my recent creation of a custom steel sign. The machines portability also allows for convenient use in different locations.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. AS YESWELDER Multifunctional Plasma Cutter,
The AS YESWELDER Multifunctional Plasma Cutter is a portable unit equipped with both plasma cutting and welding capabilities, featuring a pilot arc for easy starting. This machine excels at cutting various metals up to a quarter-inch thick with precision. A major advantage is its portability combined with a user-friendly interface, allowing for efficient use in diverse locations. For example, the included consumables and easy setup enabled me to quickly tackle a complex metal art project in my garage. Overall, its a versatile and convenient choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. AS Plasma Torch Clamp, CNC
The AS Plasma Torch Clamp, CNC, is designed for precise plasma cutting. Its key feature is a robust clamp designed to securely hold a plasma torch, ensuring stability during operation. Its well-suited for automated cutting tasks, making it ideal for creating intricate designs in metal sheets. A major advantage is its ease of adjustment; it allows for fine-tuning the torchs position, leading to clean and accurate cuts. For instance, it can easily follow complex patterns without manual intervention, drastically improving efficiency.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Portable CNC Plasma Cutter Buying Guide
Looking to buy a portable CNC plasma cutter? These machines offer precision cutting for metalwork on the go. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right one.
Cutting Capacity
Consider the thickness of metal you plan to cut. Portable cutters specify a severance cut capacity, the thickest they can cut through, and a recommended cut capacity for clean, efficient cuts. Make sure the machines ratings match your projects needs. A machine that cleanly cuts 1/2-inch steel might be overkill if you only work with sheet metal.
Power Requirements
Check the voltage required by the cutter. Many portable units operate on 120V or 240V power, but ensure you have the appropriate outlet available in your workspace. Some models may require a dedicated circuit.
Software & Features
Pay attention to the software included or required. User-friendly CAM software, which converts your designs into cutting paths, simplifies operation. Look for features like automatic torch height control (THC) for consistent cutting and pre-installed cut charts for common materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials can I cut with a portable CNC plasma cutter?
Portable CNC plasma cutters excel at cutting electrically conductive metals. Common materials include mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. They are also capable of cutting other metals like copper and brass, depending on the machines capabilities.
How thick of material can a portable plasma cutter cut?
Cutting capacity varies based on the plasma cutters amperage and the torchs design. Entry-level portable cutters might handle materials up to 1/4 inch thick, while more powerful models can cut through steel exceeding 1 inch.
What power source is required to operate a portable CNC plasma cutter?
Most portable CNC plasma cutters require a standard 220V power supply. Some smaller units may operate on 110V, but with limitations on cutting thickness and performance. Always check the machines specifications before purchase to ensure compatibility with your available power.
How much maintenance is involved with a portable CNC plasma cutter?
Maintenance includes regular cleaning of the machine and torch components, such as the nozzle and electrodes. Periodic replacement of consumables, like tips and swirl rings, is also essential. Proper maintenance ensures optimal cutting performance and extends the lifespan of your machine.
Is it difficult to learn how to use a portable CNC plasma cutter?
The learning curve can vary depending on your existing knowledge of CAD/CAM software and CNC operation. Many manufacturers provide tutorials and support to help users get started. With practice and proper instruction, you can become proficient in operating a portable CNC plasma cutter.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the portable CNC plasma cutter offers a convenient solution for on-site metal cutting. Its ability to handle various metals like mild steel and stainless steel with a clean cut is a significant advantage. The compact design allows for easy transportation and setup, making it ideal for projects where portability is key.
The units user-friendly interface simplifies the operation, even for beginners. While the cutting speed is impressive, its essential to consider the material thickness and power source requirements for optimal performance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs: a need for speed, precision, and the materials to be cut.
Ready to start cutting? Explore our website for more details on each model and find the perfect plasma cutter 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.
