Long gone are the days when people used to cut metals with a saw. This technique is not very practical. Fortunately, we have plasma cutting machines.
These metal cutters simplify the process of cutting different types of metals greatly. What’s more, they do it fast and smoothly.
Despite the intense heat involved, this type of metal cutting causes little to no deformation to the materials.
One of the best-known manufacturers of high-quality plasma cutters is Hypertherm. They offer different plasma cutters for different needs and budgets. Get to know them in this article.
A Little about Hypertherm
Hypertherm is an American company based in New Hampshire, USA. For more than five decades, this company has been selling high-quality cutting equipment.
Its offer comprises several plasma cutters that many consider among the best in the world. The company designs and manufactures all its products in the United States.
The line of products from this company has gained a lot of acceptance among professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Their plasma cutters can cut different metals with high precision. This is done fast and efficiently, as well.
Hence, these products are best for people that don’t want to compromise the quality of their work. They come at different prices to adjust to the budget of a wide range of customers.
In general, plasma cutters produce an electric arc. This arc elevates the temperature of the gas flowing at high speed through a nozzle. The temperature is so high that the gas becomes plasma, which is an electrical conductor.
This transfers the high electrical current of the arc to the metal, which melts and is cut by the high-speed plasma. Hence, as seen, a plasma cutter can consume a large amount of electrical power.
This is another aspect in which Hypertherm plasma cutters shine. They make very efficient use of electrical power. The larger the plasma cutter, the higher the amperage needed.
This translates into higher power consumption. Luckily, with a Hypertherm plasma cutter, you can be sure that your electricity bill won’t break the bank.
So, why not learn more about these plasma cutters? The following reviews will provide more detailed information about the most popular models.
These honest reviews will give you a clear idea of the capacities and limitations of each of these cutting machines. You surely will find the right one for your needs.
Hypertherm Plasma Cutters Comparison Chart
| Image | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP 088079 Voltage: 110-240 v Recommended cut capacity & speed: 10 mm (3/8") - 500 mm/min (20 ipm) 12 mm (1/2")- 250 mm/min (10 ipm) Weight: 21,6 lbs (9,8 kg) | |
 | Hypertherm Powermax 45 XP 88121 Voltage: 200-240 v Recommended cut capacity & speed: 16 mm (5/8") - 500 mm/min (20 ipm), 22 mm (7/8") - 250 mm/min (10 ipm) Weight: 33 lbs (15 kg) | |
 | Hypertherm Powermax 65 083270 Voltage: 200-480 v Recommended cut capacity & speed: 20 mm (3/4") - 500 mm/min (20 ipm), 25 mm (1") - 250 mm/min (10 ipm) Weight: 57 lbs (26 kg) | |
 | Hypertherm Powermax 85 087108 Voltage: 200-480 v Recommended cut capacity & speed: 25 mm (1") - 500 mm/min (20 ipm), 32 mm (1-1/4") - 250 mm/min (10 ipm) Weight: 62 lbs (28 kg) |
4 Hypertherm Plasma Cutters (as of January, 2025)
1.Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP 088079 – Hypertherm Plasma Cutter Review
This is the ideal plasma cutter for the professional or DIY hobbyist that is constantly on the move. Its portability, high performance, and power efficiency make it the ideal tool for fieldwork.
You should not be deceived by its compact size and lightweight (9.8 kg or 21,6 lbs only). This machine has very good cutting capabilities and will have the work done quickly. It will work fine with materials such as stainless steel and aluminum.
To accommodate most cutting tasks, this machine is equipped with two working modes: high-power and Fine Cut. The former will allow you to cut through thick material, thanks to the large torque generated internally. The latter is preferred for detailed cutting in thin metal.
The materials used to build this machine are of high quality. Hence, you can be sure it will withstand the toughest working environments.
This machine was designed with portability in mind, without sacrificing functionality. It automatically switches between 110v and 240v input voltage. This feature allows you to use this plasma cutter in practically any place.
The machine comes with a shoulder strap, which allows you to transport it easily around your workplace. To change location, the machine comes with a hard case for secure transportation.
Regarding ergonomics, this plasma cutter has been built to provide comfort and safety during work. The torch is made of very resistant materials. The handle offers a good grip and will protect your hand from heat.
Setting up this machine could not be easier. Even if you don’t have experience with plasma cutters, you’ll be able to set it up intuitively. What’s more, this plasma cutter comes with protective gear included.
Pros:
- High performance in a compact-sized machine
- Easy setup and use
- A safe torch that protects your hands from heat
- Gloves, protective glasses, and hard case included
- 110v/240v automatic selection
- Easy to transport and store.
Cons:
- Despite its high performance, it is for light-duty tasks only.
2. Hypertherm Powermax 45 XP 88121 – Hypertherm Plasma Cutter Review
This cutting machine offers more versatility than the previous model. The different features of this machine make it one of the best multipurpose plasma cutters in the market.
The machine works with an input voltage from 200v to 240v with automatic compensation for fluctuations. The current ranges from 28 amps to 34 amps with only one phase. Hence, you must be sure that this type of supply is available at your workplace.
Owing to its higher power supply, the machine can deliver a higher current to create an electric arc. Thanks to the higher current, it can cut through thicker metal more easily. For instance, it has the capability of cutting metal of 1/2″ (1,27 cm) of thickness with 45 amps of output current.
This cutting machine comes with a mechanized torch. It allows its integration with automated cutters.
Despite the high cutting capacity of this machine, it is rather compact and lightweight. Hence, you will not have major problems carrying it around your workplace or moving it to another location.
With this plasma cutter, you won’t have any problem cutting thin steel in the field. You’ll be able to cut suppler materials such as stainless steel and aluminum if they don’t exceed 1/2″ (1,27 cm) of thickness.
To increase performance and uptime, the internal components are cooled by proprietary technology. The torch features a special design that helps prolong the lifetime of the nozzle. This translates into lower operating costs.
Because of the above features, this plasma cutter is suitable for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. However, the price is a bit on the high side. Hence, DIY hobbyists should consider whether paying extra cash is justified for their sporadic metal cutting.
Pros:
- Easy to use even for beginners
- Compact design and lightweight allow portability
- Electrode, replacement nozzle, and other accessories included
- Provides very clean cuts through rusted and/or painted metal.
Cons:
- The price can be high for DIY hobbyists.
3. Hypertherm Powermax 65 083270 – Hypertherm Plasma Cutter Review
This cutting machine provides high speed to cut thick metal with outstanding quality. Its cutting capabilities exceed those of the previous models. It can easily cut metal with 3/4″ (1,9 cm) thickness. However, it can cut a maximum thickness of 1” (2,5 cm).
It also provides cut severance for materials 1.25” (3,1 cm) thick. It can cut at 10 inches (25,4 cm) per minute thanks to its maximal output current of 65 amps.
The cutting capacity described above comes at a higher price also.
From the ergonomic point of view, you’ll have little to complain about. This plasma cutter prolongs the duration of consumables. This is possible through its advanced technology.
Moreover, you can choose between four different torch styles. As with the previous model, voltage fluctuations will be automatically compensated. For optimal performance, the machine automatically regulates gas pressure to adapt to the cutting mode.
Because of the high speed to cut metal and advanced features, this machine is more suitable for professionals. However, DIY enthusiasts who want to own an ultimate plasma cutter can buy it too. It won’t be cheap, though.
Pros:
- Easy to set up thanks to a large LCD screen with intuitive options
- Superior cutting capabilities with thick materials
- Fine cutting possible even with rusted or painted metal
- Top safety and comfort.
Cons:
- Premium price.
4. Hypertherm Powermax 85 087108 – Hypertherm Plasma Cutter Review
This is the ultimate Hypertherm plasma cutter. It has the same features as the Powermax 65. But with 85 amp of output power, its cutting capabilities are unmatched. This machine is highly efficient; thus you’ll have much more productivity at lower costs.
It can cut metal with up to 1.5” (3,8 cm) thickness at 10 inches (25,4 cm) per minute.
It can be operated manually or integrated with automated cutters. With higher overall performance and reliability, this machine comes at a higher price.
Because of its advanced features, this cutting machine is most suitable for professionals and contractors. Using this machine is quite easy. Even a novice will be able to set it up thanks to intuitive controls.
A simple knob allows you to adjust the output amperage and gas pressure. However, if preferred, the SmartSense feature can take care of adjusting gas pressure automatically. The so-called SpringStart feature ensures consistent arc starting.
This machine can operate with a single-phase or three phases. Depending on the voltage and number of phases, the duty cycle at maximum output amperage will vary. In all cases, power efficiency is high.
Pros:
- A powerful plasma cutter
- Different cutting and gouging tasks
- Automatic gas pressure regulation
- Torch start consistency and reliability
- Different torch styles available
- Good for manual or automated cutting.
Cons:
- Very expensive
- No portability.
Conclusion
Hypertherm has earned a good reputation as one of the top manufacturers of plasma cutters in the world. Its line of products comprises plasma welders for all types of applications.
Whether portability, cutting capacity, or price is your main selection criterion, you’ll find a Hypertherm plasma cutter for you. In all cases, rest assured you’ll get a high-quality product.
