The Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.8 to 3.3. The Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC leads on warranty and cut. The Forney 40 P wins on value. The Forney 40 P costs $1,154.92 less ($1,630.08 vs $2,785).
A professional 45 A cutter for fabrication shops and farms with a 240 V circuit that cut 5/8 in steel regularly. Pick it for long consumable life and easy setup, not low price.
Amazon $2,940 Welder Supply $2,785For buyers who want a Forney machine with US phone support for 1/2 in steel on either voltage. On price alone, other dual voltage pilot arc cutters do the same work for far less.
Amazon $1,630.08Prices 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.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every up to 45 A plasma cutter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC | Forney 40 P |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 20 $4,456 per inch of rated cut ($2,785, 5/8 in) | 30 $3,260.16 per inch of rated cut ($1,630.08, 1/2 in) |
| Cut 20% | 75 5/8 in rated cut on mild steel | 50 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 75 50% at full output (45 A) | 75 50% at full output (40 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 100 pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 100 6-year warranty on the machine | 50 3-year warranty on the machine |
| Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC | Forney 40 P | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 240 V | 120/240 V |
| Maximum output | 45 A | 40 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 5/8 in | 1/2 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 1 1/8 in | 3/4 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 50% at 45 A, 40 °C | 50% at 40 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 6.7 cfm, 90 psi | 4.5 cfm, 90 psi |
| CNC port | No | - |
| Weight | 31 lb | 30 lb |
| Warranty | 6 years | 3 years |
| Released | 2024-05-01 | - |
