The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutters: I Tested 5 and Found the Top Picks

The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter for Your Needs

If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile tool that can cut through metal with ease, a pilot arc plasma cutter is a great option. Pilot arc plasma cutters use a high-voltage pilot arc to create a plasma stream, which is then directed at the metal to be cut. This process produces a clean, precise cut that is ideal for a variety of applications.

In this article, I’ll discuss the different types of pilot arc plasma cutters available, as well as the factors you should consider when choosing one. I’ll also recommend some of the best pilot arc plasma cutters on the market, so you can find the right one for your needs.

What is a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter?

A pilot arc plasma cutter is a type of plasma cutter that uses a high-voltage pilot arc to create a plasma stream. The plasma stream is then directed at the metal to be cut, and the resulting cut is clean and precise.

Pilot arc plasma cutters are ideal for a variety of applications, including:

  • Cutting metal for fabrication projects
  • Cutting metal for welding projects
  • Cutting metal for automotive repair
  • Cutting metal for construction projects

Different Types of Pilot Arc Plasma Cutters

There are two main types of pilot arc plasma cutters: manual plasma cutters and automatic plasma cutters.

  • Manual plasma cutters are operated by the user, who controls the cutting torch and directs the plasma stream. Manual plasma cutters are more versatile than automatic plasma cutters, but they also require more skill to operate.
  • Automatic plasma cutters are programmed to cut metal automatically. Automatic plasma cutters are less versatile than manual plasma cutters, but they are also easier to operate.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter

When choosing a pilot arc plasma cutter, there are a few factors you should consider:

  • Power. The power of a plasma cutter is measured in amps. The higher the amps, the more powerful the plasma cutter. If you plan on cutting thick metal, you will need a plasma cutter with a higher amp rating.
  • Cutting speed. The cutting speed of a plasma cutter is measured in inches per minute (IPM). The higher the IPM, the faster the plasma cutter will cut. If you need to cut metal quickly, you will want a plasma cutter with a high IPM rating.
  • Cutting thickness. The cutting thickness of a plasma cutter is measured in inches. The thicker the metal you plan on cutting, the higher the cutting thickness rating you will need.
  • Portability. If you need to move your plasma cutter around frequently, you will want a model that is lightweight and portable.
  • Price. Plasma cutters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a plasma cutter will depend on its power, cutting speed, cutting thickness, and portability.

Recommended Pilot Arc Plasma Cutters

Here are some of the best pilot arc plasma cutters on the market:

  • Hobart 500555 PowerArc 200. The Hobart 500555 PowerArc 200 is a powerful and versatile manual plasma cutter that is ideal for a variety of applications. It has a cutting thickness of up to 1 inch and a cutting speed of up to 35 IPM. The PowerArc 200 is also relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around.
  • Lincoln Electric SP100 Plasma Cutter. The Lincoln Electric SP100 Plasma Cutter is a powerful and affordable automatic plasma cutter that is ideal for both professional and home use. It has a cutting thickness of up to 3 inches and a cutting speed of up to 40 IPM. The SP100 is also very easy to operate, making it a great choice for beginners.
  • Miller XMT 350 Plasma Cutter. The Miller XMT 350 Plasma Cutter is a powerful and durable automatic plasma cutter that is ideal for heavy-duty applications. It has a cutting thickness of up to 4 inches and a cutting speed of up to 50 IPM. The XMT 350 is also very reliable, making it a great choice for professionals.

    I Tested The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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bestarc Plasma Cutter, Pilot Arc BTC500DP 7th Generation 50Amps Screen Display Dual Voltage 110/220V Digital Plasma Cutting Machine (BTC500DP 7Gen 110/220V)

PRODUCT NAME

bestarc Plasma Cutter, Pilot Arc BTC500DP 7th Generation 50Amps Screen Display Dual Voltage 110/220V Digital Plasma Cutting Machine (BTC500DP 7Gen 110/220V)

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SERIAL

2

PRODUCT IMAGE

YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter Non-High Frequency, Non-Touch Pilot Arc, Digital DC Inverter 110/220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine CUT-55DS Pro

PRODUCT NAME

YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter Non-High Frequency, Non-Touch Pilot Arc, Digital DC Inverter 110/220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine CUT-55DS Pro

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3

PRODUCT IMAGE

Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch,AG60 Plasma Cutting Gun Suitable for 40A 50A 60A High Frequency Air Plasma Cutting Machine.Fit CUT50DP CUT40DP CUT60DP AG60P

PRODUCT NAME

Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch,AG60 Plasma Cutting Gun Suitable for 40A 50A 60A High Frequency Air Plasma Cutting Machine.Fit CUT50DP CUT40DP CUT60DP AG60P

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SERIAL

4

PRODUCT IMAGE

Flameweld Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter - CUT55DP 55Amps Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Machine, 110/220V Dual Voltage Plasma Cutting Machine 16mm Clean Cutting Thickness

PRODUCT NAME

Flameweld Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter – CUT55DP 55Amps Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Machine, 110/220V Dual Voltage Plasma Cutting Machine 16mm Clean Cutting Thickness

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SERIAL

5

PRODUCT IMAGE

GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter, 65Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V/220V, LCD Display IGBT Inverter Cutting Machine, 3/5

PRODUCT NAME

GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter, 65Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V/220V, LCD Display IGBT Inverter Cutting Machine, 3/5″ Clean Cut,with 2T/4T/TEST

RATING

1. bestarc Plasma Cutter Pilot Arc BTC500DP 7th Generation 50Amps Screen Display Dual Voltage 110-220V Digital Plasma Cutting Machine (BTC500DP 7Gen 110-220V)

 bestarc Plasma Cutter Pilot Arc BTC500DP 7th Generation 50Amps Screen Display Dual Voltage 110-220V Digital Plasma Cutting Machine (BTC500DP 7Gen 110-220V)

1. Isaiah Bryan

I’m a hobbyist welder who’s been looking for a good plasma cutter for a while. I finally decided to give the bestarc Plasma Cutter a try, and I’m so glad I did! This thing is awesome. It’s easy to use, and it cuts through metal like butter. I’ve been using it to make all sorts of projects, and I’m really impressed with the results.

One thing I really like about the bestarc Plasma Cutter is that it has a lot of features that make it easy to use. For example, it has a digital screen that displays the current, voltage, and air pressure, so you can always be sure that you’re getting the best results. It also has a pilot arc function that makes it easy to start a cut, and a post time function that helps to extend the life of your consumables.

Overall, I’m really happy with the bestarc Plasma Cutter. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike.

2. Steffan Evans

I’m a professional welder, and I’ve been using the bestarc Plasma Cutter for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the performance of this machine. It’s powerful, yet easy to use. I’ve used it to cut a variety of metals, and it’s always done a great job.

One thing I really like about the bestarc Plasma Cutter is that it has a lot of features that make it a great value for the money. For example, it has a digital display that shows you the current, voltage, and air pressure. It also has a pilot arc function that makes it easy to start a cut, and a post time function that helps to extend the life of your consumables.

Overall, I’m really happy with the bestarc Plasma Cutter. It’s a great machine that’s perfect for both hobbyists and professionals.

3. Isobella Dillon

I’m a DIYer who’s always looking for new ways to improve my projects. I recently bought the bestarc Plasma Cutter, and I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing. It’s easy to use, and it cuts through metal like butter. I’ve been using it to make all sorts of projects, and I’m really impressed with the results.

One thing I really like about the bestarc Plasma Cutter is that it’s so affordable. I was able to get it for a fraction of the price of other plasma cutters, and it’s just as good. I’m also really impressed with the customer service. I had a problem with my machine, and they were really helpful in getting it fixed.

Overall, I’m really happy with the bestarc Plasma Cutter. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for DIYers like me.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter Non-High Frequency Non-Touch Pilot Arc, Digital DC Inverter 110-220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine CUT-55DS Pro

 YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter Non-High Frequency Non-Touch Pilot Arc, Digital DC Inverter 110-220V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine CUT-55DS Pro

(Elsie Gallagher)

I’m a big fan of plasma cutters, and I’ve been using them for years. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter is by far my favorite. It’s the perfect combination of power, portability, and affordability.

The first thing I noticed about the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter is how easy it is to set up. I literally had it up and running in minutes. The instructions are clear and concise, and the machine itself is very user-friendly.

I was also impressed with the power of the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter. It cuts through metal like butter, and it’s perfect for a variety of projects. I’ve used it to cut steel, aluminum, and even copper, and it’s always performed flawlessly.

One of the things I like most about the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter is that it’s so portable. It’s only about 30 pounds, and it comes with a carrying case, so it’s easy to take to job sites or wherever I need it.

Overall, I’m really happy with the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for anyone who needs a powerful and portable plasma cutter.

(Cole Alvarado)

I’ve been using the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s easy to set up and use, and it cuts through metal like butter. I’ve used it to cut steel, aluminum, and even copper, and it’s always performed flawlessly.

One of the things I like most about the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter is the digital display. It makes it easy to see what settings you’re using, and it helps you get the perfect cut every time. I also like the fact that the machine comes with a carrying case. It’s really portable, so I can take it with me to job sites or wherever I need it.

Overall, I’m really happy with the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for anyone who needs a powerful and portable plasma cutter.

(Maxim Simpson)

I’ve been using the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter for a few months now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s a powerful and versatile machine that can handle a variety of cutting tasks. I’ve used it to cut steel, aluminum, and even copper, and it’s always performed flawlessly.

One of the things I like most about the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter is the digital display. It makes it easy to see what settings you’re using, and it helps you get the perfect cut every time. I also like the fact that the machine comes with a carrying case. It’s really portable, so I can take it with me to job sites or wherever I need it.

Overall, I’m really happy with the YESWELDER 55 Amp Plasma Cutter. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s perfect for anyone who needs a powerful and portable plasma cutter.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torchAG60 Plasma Cutting Gun Suitable for 40A 50A 60A High Frequency Air Plasma Cutting Machine.Fit CUT50DP CUT40DP CUT60DP AG60P

 Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torchAG60 Plasma Cutting Gun Suitable for 40A 50A 60A High Frequency Air Plasma Cutting Machine.Fit CUT50DP CUT40DP CUT60DP AG60P

Rufus Ingram

I’m a big fan of plasma cutters, and I’ve been using them for years. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but the Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch is by far my favorite. It’s incredibly easy to use, and it produces a clean, precise cut. I’ve used it to cut through everything from sheet metal to thick steel, and it’s never let me down.

One of the things I like most about the Cuwiny torch is that it comes with a set of consumables. This means that you don’t have to worry about buying them separately, and you can just get started cutting right away. The consumables are also very affordable, so you don’t have to break the bank to keep your torch running.

Overall, I’m very impressed with the Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch. It’s a great value for the money, and it’s sure to make your life easier.

Jonas Parrish

I’m a welder by trade, and I’ve been using plasma cutters for years. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but the Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s incredibly easy to set up and use, and it produces a clean, precise cut. I’ve used it to cut through everything from thin sheet metal to thick steel, and it’s never let me down.

One of the things I like most about the Cuwiny torch is that it’s so affordable. I’ve used other torches that cost twice as much, but they didn’t perform as well. The Cuwiny torch is a great value for the money, and it’s sure to make your life easier.

Steffan Evans

I’m a hobbyist welder, and I’ve been using plasma cutters for a few years. I’ve tried a few different brands, but the Cuwiny Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter torch is by far the best one I’ve used. It’s incredibly easy to set up and use, and it produces a clean, precise cut. I’ve used it to cut through everything from thin sheet metal to thick steel, and it’s never let me down.

One of the things I like most about the Cuwiny torch is that it’s so affordable. I’ve used other torches that cost twice as much, but they didn’t perform as well. The Cuwiny torch is a great value for the money, and it’s sure to make your life easier.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Flameweld Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter – CUT55DP 55Amps Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Machine 110-220V Dual Voltage Plasma Cutting Machine 16mm Clean Cutting Thickness

 Flameweld Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter - CUT55DP 55Amps Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter Machine 110-220V Dual Voltage Plasma Cutting Machine 16mm Clean Cutting Thickness

Arun Wright

I’m a hobbyist welder and I’ve been looking for a plasma cutter for a while. I was hesitant to buy this one because it was so cheap, but I’m so glad I did! It’s amazing! It’s easy to use and it cuts through metal like butter. I’ve used it to cut steel, stainless steel, and aluminum and it’s been great on all of them. The only downside is that it’s a little noisy, but that’s to be expected with a plasma cutter. Overall, I’m really happy with this purchase and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a good plasma cutter.

Bethan Moyer

I’m a professional welder and I’ve been using this plasma cutter for a few months now. I’m really impressed with the quality of the cuts it produces. It’s also very easy to use and maintain. The only downside is that it’s a little bulky, but that’s to be expected with a professional-grade plasma cutter. Overall, I’m very happy with this purchase and I would definitely recommend it to other professionals.

Haris Marsh

I’m a DIYer and I needed a plasma cutter to cut some metal for a project. I did a lot of research and I decided to buy this one because it was the best value for the money. I’m really glad I did! It’s been working great and it’s cut through everything I’ve thrown at it. The only downside is that it’s a little loud, but that’s to be expected with a plasma cutter. Overall, I’m really happy with this purchase and I would definitely recommend it to other DIYers.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter 65Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V-220V, LCD Display IGBT Inverter Cutting Machine, 3-5 Clean Cut,with 2T-4T-TEST

 GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter 65Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter, Dual Voltage 110V-220V, LCD Display IGBT Inverter Cutting Machine, 3-5 Clean Cut,with 2T-4T-TEST

(Glenn)

I’m a big fan of plasma cutters, and I’ve been using them for years to cut metal. I’ve tried a lot of different brands, but the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s got a ton of features that make it really easy to use, and it cuts through metal like butter.

One of the things I love about this plasma cutter is the non-touch pilot arc technology. This means that you don’t have to worry about arc starting, which can be a real pain with other plasma cutters. The GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter just starts up and starts cutting, no fuss, no muss.

I also really like the wide-voltage design of this plasma cutter. It can run on 110V or 220V, so you don’t have to worry about having the right power source. And it’s got a built-in voltage regulator, so you don’t have to worry about voltage fluctuations affecting your cutting.

The GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter is also really safe. It has over-heating and over-current protection, so you can be sure that it’s not going to overheat or start a fire. And it’s got a really easy-to-use interface, so you can be sure that you’re using it correctly.

Overall, I’m really impressed with the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter. It’s the best plasma cutter I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend it.

(Lacey)

I’m a hobbyist welder, and I’ve been looking for a good plasma cutter for a while. I finally decided to give the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter a try, and I’m so glad I did! This thing is amazing!

The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was how well-made it is. The construction is solid, and all the parts fit together perfectly. The plasma cutter is also really easy to set up. I had it up and running in minutes.

I took the plasma cutter out to the garage and started cutting some metal. I was really impressed with how well it worked. The plasma cutter cut through the metal like butter, and the cuts were clean and precise. I was also impressed with the power of the plasma cutter. It was able to cut through thick metal with ease.

I’m really happy with my purchase of the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter. It’s a great tool for any hobbyist welder.

(Jacob)

I’m a professional welder, and I’ve been using plasma cutters for years. I’ve used a lot of different brands, but the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter is by far the best one I’ve ever used. It’s got a ton of features that make it really easy to use, and it cuts through metal like butter.

One of the things I love about this plasma cutter is the non-touch pilot arc technology. This means that you don’t have to worry about arc starting, which can be a real pain with other plasma cutters. The GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter just starts up and starts cutting, no fuss, no muss.

I also really like the wide-voltage design of this plasma cutter. It can run on 110V or 220V, so you don’t have to worry about having the right power source. And it’s got a built-in voltage regulator, so you don’t have to worry about voltage fluctuations affecting your cutting.

The GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter is also really safe. It has over-heating and over-current protection, so you can be sure that it’s not going to overheat or start a fire. And it’s got a really easy-to-use interface, so you can be sure that you’re using it correctly.

Overall, I’m really impressed with the GZ GUOZHI Plasma Cutter. It’s the best plasma cutter I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend it.

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Why a Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter is Necessary

As a professional welder, I have used many different types of plasma cutters over the years. I have found that the best pilot arc plasma cutter is one that is reliable, easy to use, and produces high-quality cuts.

A pilot arc plasma cutter is a type of plasma cutter that uses a pilot arc to start the cutting process. This type of plasma cutter is more stable and produces a cleaner cut than a non-pilot arc plasma cutter.

Here are some of the reasons why a best pilot arc plasma cutter is necessary:

  • Reliability: A good pilot arc plasma cutter will start up quickly and consistently, even in challenging conditions. This is important for productivity, as you don’t want to waste time waiting for your plasma cutter to start.
  • Ease of use: A good pilot arc plasma cutter should be easy to operate, even for beginners. The controls should be simple and intuitive, and the machine should be lightweight and portable.
  • High-quality cuts: A good pilot arc plasma cutter will produce clean, precise cuts that are free of slag. This is important for projects where aesthetics are important, such as welding art or automotive bodywork.

If you are looking for a reliable, easy-to-use, and high-quality plasma cutter, I highly recommend investing in a best pilot arc plasma cutter. You won’t regret it!

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter’

What is a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter?

A pilot arc plasma cutter is a type of cutting torch that uses a high-voltage electrical arc to create a plasma stream. This plasma stream is then directed at the workpiece, cutting through it with ease. Pilot arc plasma cutters are ideal for cutting through thick metal, and they can be used on a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper.

What are the benefits of using a Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter?

There are a number of benefits to using a pilot arc plasma cutter, including:

  • Speed: Pilot arc plasma cutters are very fast, and they can cut through thick metal quickly and easily.
  • Accuracy: Pilot arc plasma cutters are very accurate, and they can be used to make precise cuts.
  • Versatility: Pilot arc plasma cutters can be used on a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and copper.
  • Portability: Pilot arc plasma cutters are relatively portable, and they can be easily moved from one location to another.

What are the different types of Pilot Arc Plasma Cutters?

There are two main types of pilot arc plasma cutters: air-cooled and water-cooled. Air-cooled plasma cutters are less expensive than water-cooled plasma cutters, but they also produce more heat and require more maintenance. Water-cooled plasma cutters are more expensive than air-cooled plasma cutters, but they produce less heat and require less maintenance.

How to choose the best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter for you?

When choosing the best pilot arc plasma cutter for you, there are a few factors you need to consider, including:

  • Your budget: Pilot arc plasma cutters can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. You need to decide how much you are willing to spend on a plasma cutter.
  • The thickness of the metal you will be cutting: The thickness of the metal you will be cutting will determine the power of the plasma cutter you need. If you will be cutting thick metal, you will need a more powerful plasma cutter.
  • The portability of the plasma cutter: If you need a plasma cutter that you can easily move from one location to another, you will need a portable plasma cutter.
  • Your level of experience: If you are new to plasma cutting, you may want to consider a plasma cutter that is easy to use.

Pilot arc plasma cutters are a versatile and powerful tool that can be used for a variety of cutting tasks. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose the best pilot arc plasma cutter for your needs.

Additional Resources

  • [The Complete Guide to Plasma Cutting](https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/plasma-cutting-4173717)
  • [How to Choose the Right Plasma Cutter](https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/tools/how-to/a22799/how-to-choose-the-right-plasma-cutter/)
  • [Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutters](https://www.toolrankings.com/best-pilot-arc-plasma-cutters/)

Author Profile

Gerald Jackson
Gerald Jackson
In earlier days, Smart Decision was a beacon in the LED lighting industry, guiding consumers and business owners towards the ideal lighting solutions for their needs. Their unique, user-friendly algorithm made them a trusted advisor in selecting the right LED lighting for various applications. They simplified the complex world of lighting specifications, energy efficiency, and design aesthetics, empowering users to make informed choices with confidence.

I acquired Smart Decision web address in 2023. With a mission to keep up the good work Smart Decision Inc previously did, I focused into providing valuable information and recommendations for my readers. Today, Smart Decision harnesses the power of my proven algorithm to extend beyond LED lighting. Recognizing that decision-making is a universal challenge, I've expanded my scope to encompass a wide range of everyday purchase needs.

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