A very light 55 A pilot arc cutter for DIY and repair work on steel up to 1/2 in. It suits buyers who carry the cutter to the job and like app control.
Amazon $269.96The ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.8 to 3.5. The ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro leads on warranty. The ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro costs $18.19 less ($269.96 vs $288.15).
A light non-HF 55 A cutter for garages with computers or a CNC nearby, cutting steel up to 1/2 in. It suits buyers who also want to gouge out welds.
Amazon $299.28 YesWelder $288.15Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro for warranty (3-year warranty on the machine vs 2-year warranty on the machine).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every over 45 A plasma cutter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro | YesWelder CUT-55DS NHF PLUS |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 30% | 90 $539.92 per inch of rated cut ($269.96, 1/2 in) | 88 $576.30 per inch of rated cut ($288.15, 1/2 in) |
| Cut 20% | 0 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel | 0 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 100 60% at full output (55 A) | 100 60% at full output (55 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 100 pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty on the machine | 25 2-year warranty on the machine |
Specifications
| ArcCaptain CUT55 Pro | YesWelder CUT-55DS NHF PLUS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 120/240 V | 120/240 V |
| Maximum output | 55 A | 55 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 1/2 in | 1/2 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 3/4 in | 3/4 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 60% at 55 A | 60% at 55 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | High frequency | Blowback |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 5 cfm, 72.5 psi | 6 cfm, 70 psi |
| CNC port | No | No |
| Weight | 11.5 lb | 13 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
