Plasma Cutter Recomendations

[Shoebox]

I'm thinking of getting a plasma cutter,.....I've been thinking for years Probably going to do something soon, and I'm wondering who has had success with what brand/model? When buying tools I've always leaned towards something that's better than what I really need and never regretted it. I'm attracted to the Miller 375, around $2000.00 but there are many offerings like one from Eastwood that are under $1000.00. This unit would not see high usage, I am waffling about price vs value and would welcome any thoughts/ recomendations. Thanks.

[Krylon32]

I'm not in the shop but I think mine is a Thermal Dynamics?

[Pete]

Miller is a good brand. Stick with long time known brands. Preferably made in USA.

[SoCalCoupe]

Originally Posted by Shoebox

I'm thinking of getting a plasma cutter,.....I've been thinking for years Probably going to do something soon, and I'm wondering who has had success with what brand/model? When buying tools I've always leaned towards something that's better than what I really need and never regretted it. I'm attracted to the Miller 375, around $2000.00 but there are many offerings like one from Eastwood that are under $1000.00. This unit would not see high usage, I am waffling about price vs value and would welcome any thoughts/ recomendations. Thanks.

We must be twin sons of different mothers. I've been thinking about a plasma cutter for about 15 years. Probably unlike you, I haven't got a single use for one but I'm a shameless tool junkie.


15 years ago I bought a high end MIG welder for the simple job of mounting two hangers for a transmission bracket. I hate cheap tools. Seemed VERY extravagant at the time. I actually ended up using it for several other jobs over the years. Miller's a great brand. No experience with Eastwood.


I bought my welder used on Craig's list for $800 and sold it ten years later on Craig's list for $800 when I downsized to move cross-country. Used might be the way to go; just test it first and watch out for scams.


Similar story with a Harbor Freight 10 ton hydraulic press. (Yeah, I know, I hate cheap tools, but it's a simple hydraulic press.) Bought it new, used it several times, and sold it 10 years later for $10 less than I paid.


Have a few more stories like this.

[Newc]

I use a Thermal Dynamics-sold by the Miller dealer locally. Newc

[PeteVS]

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Stupid question: What should one look for in a plasma cutter?

[deuce_roadster]

Mine is a Thermal Dynamics also, 220v 65amps I believe. Has never disappointed me.

[Krylon32]

My requirements were the ability to cut up to 1/2 inch steel. Affordable and readily available consumables, long torch cable, portability. I was really lucky when I bought mine. Thermal Dynamics had a really good trade deal where they were offering up to $1000 for other brands of plasma's and my old one which was shot qualified so I got my new $1600 machine fir $600. Sadly I can no longer use it because of my pacemaker/defibrillator.

[rich b]

We used Miller, Thermal Dynamics, and ESAB at the truck shop with good results along strong brand support.

My buddy has a small off brand unit at the man cave; it does the job on car related stuff just fine and luckily uses name brand consumables.

[Scotty's 52 F3]

I have a Hypertherm Power Max 45. Been running it trouble free for 12 years.

[Ggmac]

I’ve got a non contact 60 amp , chinese off of ebay . Its wonderful to have around . I paid around $250 a few years ago . I dont know much about them besides the contact, non contact .

[busmania]

I’m probably going to get hate here but whatever. I had a Miller. Was awesome but I never used it so I sold it. Built a few thick smokers with it but then it just sat so I sold it. It’s the only thing I regret selling in my life so eventually I started looking for another. I settled on a harbor freight unit. It works great! I’ve cut some thicker metal (1/4”) with it no problem and nice and clean. For how little I use it, it’s perfect for me and a great tool to have in the garage. It runs 110 or 220 which I really like.

[Shoebox]

Originally Posted by Pete

Miller is a good brand. Stick with long time known brands. Preferably made in USA.

Ya Pete, that's where my heart is at,.... just gotta get my wallet there too

[cmbrucew]

I had a Miller matic 200, and a Miller plascut for over thirty years. Great tools. I sold both to a guy from La Vegas, when my eyesight started failing. I was afraid i would make a bad weld, and hurt someone. Miss them both.


Bruce

[RKS.PA]

Am a big fan of Made in the USA, too. Have a Miller stick welder and a Lincoln mig. Love them both!! My neighbor does some decorative metal work and bought the HF plasma cutter. Works well for him and probably fits his budget. To each his own!!!

[wga]

Have more experience with the Thermal Dynamics than Miller. TD was trouble free.
Miller is excellent as well. Check with the local Miller sales rep if there are any trade shows in your area that Miller will be involved with. They usually have deals of up to
20% off. At SEMA Miller has some great deals as well.
These brands vs HF and others? It is the availability of parts - consumables and the subtle areas of higher quality, where I prefer TD or Miller.

[my4dv8]

Don’t buy by the cheapest. I had a cheapie , don’t remember the brand now. But it was pathetic junk. Trying to cut stuff and when the compressor cut in it would blow the wall fuse regularly. Went to Xcel Arc razor cut 45 , never had another issue.

[big job]

Eastwood versa cut 60 I tell you any make is the best investment ever no more expensive oxygen and acetylene plane ole shop air cuts like a razor and fast.You can write your name with it.............

[Jacques1960]

Big fan of my PrimeWeld Cut60 auto start / no touch

[Shoebox]

As always, thanks guys for the sage advice and some humor (SoCalCoupe) on my plasma cutter question. I'm seeing Thermal Dynamics and Miller close in price, probably due to both being high quality. Buying local gives me a lot of comfort in the event of a problem or just needing support. There are two Miller dealers in town, think I'll drop in, do some tire kicking and see if there are any upcoming (year end?) sales or promos. Thanks again.