The Hobart AirForce 12ci is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 2.9 to 2.3. The Hobart AirForce 12ci leads on warranty. The Forney Easy Cut 255 wins on value. The Forney Easy Cut 255 costs $611.01 less ($399.99 vs $1,011).
For sheet metal, HVAC and body work where carrying a compressor is not practical. Anyone with a compressor gets far more cutting for the money from a 30 to 40 A machine.
Amazon $1,012.99 Cyberweld $1,011For occasional auto body, HVAC and thin sheet cutting on a 120 V outlet. Anyone cutting plate should buy a larger dual voltage machine.
Amazon $399.99Prices 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 | Hobart AirForce 12ci | Forney Easy Cut 255 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.9/5 | 2.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 0 $8,088 per inch of rated cut ($1,011, 1/8 in) | 44 $2,133.28 per inch of rated cut ($399.99, 3/16 in) |
| Cut 20% | 0 1/8 in rated cut on mild steel | 0 3/16 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 38 35% at full output (12 A) | 38 35% at full output (20 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 50 pilot arc not stated (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty on the machine | 0 1-year warranty on the machine |
| Hobart AirForce 12ci | Forney Easy Cut 255 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 120 V | 120 V |
| Maximum output | 12 A | 20 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 1/8 in | 3/16 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 1/4 in | 1/4 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 35% at 12 A, 40 °C | 35% at 20 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | - |
| Arc start | - | High frequency |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | Built-in compressor | 5.5 cfm, 90 psi |
| Weight | 25.1 lb | 16.4 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year |
