Welcome to our article about the best plasma cutters with built in air compressor! We will go through detailed reviews of our top 4 models a bit further down this article, but first, let’s discuss why you might want to consider plasma cutters with built in air compressor to begin with.
Advantages of a Plasma Cutters With Built In Air Compressors
Plasma cutters with built in air compressor has a number of advantages, the most obvious of which is convenience.
This is because you don’t have to buy a separate air compressor, saving you time, money, and effort. You just have to shop around for the one machine that will do both.
Also, it goes without saying that the built-in compressor will be 100% compatible with the plasma cutter, allowing for more precise and cleaner cuts, and reducing the risk that you will accidentally purchase an incompatible air compressor and need to go through returns and refunds with the seller.
Portability is also a key factor here, as you will not have to haul around 2 machines even if it is just moving things around in your own space or going from one job site to another.
Storage is another advantage of plasma cutters with in built air compressors, as it is simpler to store just one machine rather than two, saving you space in your workshop.
And another final advantage is that you save on power consumption. Powering just one unit can mean significant savings in your electric bill.
With all that said, there are a range of plasma cutters with in built air compressors on the market. So to make it easier for you to find the right one, we’ve selected and reviewed the best 4 available below.
The 4 Best Plasma Cutters With Built In Air Compressors Are:
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Hypertherm 088096 Powermax (Most Recommended) | Thermal Arc 1-1110-1 Arc Cut Plasma System | Forney 317 250 P+ Plasma Cutter | Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter (Best Value) |
| Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
For readers in a hurry, above are the 4 best models available today. Depending on your budget, we recommend either the Hypertherm or the Hobart.
For those who want more detail, let’s now get into the reviews and pros and cons of each model!
Reviews of the 4 Best Plasma Cutter with Built In Air Compressor
Budget: Over $1000
Hypertherm 088096 Powermax 30 AIR Hand System
Most Recommended!
The Hypertherm 088096 Powermax 30 AIR Hand System may be the smallest and lightest hand-held plasma cutter in its range, but it delivers heavy-duty performance, fast cuts, and exceptional cut quality.
With its built-in compressor, compact size, and light weight, you can take it anywhere you need. It measures 16.5” x 7.7” x 13.1” and weighs 35 lbs.
It is suitable for cutting mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium. Its recommended cutting thickness is 5/16″ at a speed of 20 ipm and 3/8″ at a speed of 10 ipm. Its severance cutting thickness is 5/8″ at a speed of 5 ipm.
Whilst this is a more expensive plasma cutter, if you have the money to invest we highly recommend it as it is a durable, reliable plasma cutter.
Pros
- It can operate on either 120 or 240 volts with its auto-voltage technology.
- Its AIR T30 torch is ergonomically designed to reduce cramping and soreness in the arms or wrist
Cons
- arcing tip needs contact with the metal which can reduce its lifespan.
- It is fairly weak on cutting painted or rusty metals.
Thermal Arc 1-1110-1 Air Cut 15C Plasma System
The Thermal Arc 1-1110-1 Air Cut 15C Plasma System is a portable plasma cutter that features an internal air compressor, faster and excellent cutting capacity, and 25% more cutting power compared to standard models.
It measures 23.1” x 11.4” x 12.3” and weighs 33 lbs. It has a recommended cutting capacity of 1/8″ with a maximum cutting thickness of 3/16″.
It is rated at 15 amps, making it compatible with any outlet, and it runs on 110/230V, and at 50 or 60Hz. It features a PCH-10 torch with a 70-degree head and an 8. 5′ input power cable with a plug.
Pros
- It has a torch lead of 20’, one of the longest available on the market, providing greater freedom when working.
- It can easily cut through rusted and painted surfaces.
Cons
- It is not designed for harsh outdoor work environments.
- It is a bit on the expensive side.
- Is a bit heavy to carry around
Budget: Under $1000
Forney 317 250 P+ Plasma Cutters with Built In Air Compressor
The Forney 317 250 P+ Plasma Cutter with Air Compressor is one of the most affordable plasma cutters available.
It measures 15” x 7.5” x 14” and weighs 40 lbs. Its lead and earth clamp measures 15’ and the cord length is10’. Its maximum cutting thickness is 1/4”. It has a duty cycle of 25% at 12 amps and an input voltage of 120V.
It is suitable for cutting steel, aluminium, and other conductive metals. It’s Drag Torch technology allows you to obtain precise and clean cuts, enabling you to move the torch directly across the surface of the metal.
Pros
- It features a combined air pressure regulator and dryer.
- It has built-in thermal overload protection for safety.
- It carries Forney’s 5/3/1 warranty.
- Its consumables are quite reasonably priced.
Cons
- It is heavy at 40 lbs.
- It can be slow to start.
- There is a delay every time the trigger is pulled.
Hobart Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutters with Built In Air Compressor
Best Value!
The Hobart Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutters with Built In Air Compressor is a compact, lightweight, and portable plasma cutter that is ready to begin cutting as soon as it is out of the box.
It measures 16.5” x 18.5” x 11.25” and weighs 31 lbs. Its maximum cutting thickness is 1/8” and maximum severance thickness of ¼” It is suitable for cutting aluminum, steel, and any kind of conductive metals. It runs on your standard household power of 120V at 20A.
It comes with several great features such as Fan on Demand Technology and Post-Flow Air Cooling System that ensures your unit will not overheat even during extensive use.
The Hobart performs well and has numerous features for its price, making it excellent value and our most recommended plasma cutter for those on a budget.
Pros
- It features diagnostic LED lights to indicate power, temperature, and torch readiness.
- Its Pilot arc start ensures consistency prior to every cut to reduce tip burnout.
- Gas pressure has pre-set settings so no more tinkering or guessing
- Great value for the price
Cons
- It runs on just 120V.
- It tends to produce not-so-clean cuts on thicker metals.
Read our full article about the Hobart Airforce 12ci Here!
Best Plasma Cutters with Built In Air Compressor – Conclusion
We hope you’ve found this article helpful in deciding which of the best plasma cutters with built in air compressors is right for you.
Ultimately, we recommend the Hypertherm if you want to make a long term investment, or the Hobart if you are looking for the best value for money!
Also Read:
Best Plasma Cutter Under $300
Best Budget Plasma Cutter Under $500