Hobart AirForce 27i
#5 in Up to 45 AFull review
A light dual voltage cutter for sheet metal and steel up to 3/8 in, with Hobart’s long warranty. Buyers who cut thicker steel should step up to the 40i.
Amazon $1,617.99 Cyberweld $1,565$1,565
The Hobart AirForce 27i is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.4 to 2.9. The Hobart AirForce 27i leads on warranty. The Hobart AirForce 27i costs $375 less ($1,565 vs $1,940).
Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME
#11 in Up to 45 AFull review
A small, light Miller cutter for sheet metal, HVAC and body work up to 3/8 in, on either voltage. It suits buyers who want a big-brand machine and dealer support over the lowest price.
Amazon $2,141 Cyberweld $1,940$1,940
Prices 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 Hobart AirForce 27i for warranty (5-year warranty on the machine vs 3-year warranty on the machine).
Scores side by side
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 27i | Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.4/5 | 2.9/5 |
| Value 30% | 22 $4,173.33 per inch of rated cut ($1,565, 3/8 in) | 15 $5,173.33 per inch of rated cut ($1,940, 3/8 in) |
| Cut 20% | 25 3/8 in rated cut on mild steel | 25 3/8 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 50 40% at full output (30 A) | 50 40% at full output (30 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 100 pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty on the machine | 50 3-year warranty on the machine |
Specifications
| Hobart AirForce 27i | Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 120/240 V | 120/240 V |
| Maximum output | 30 A | 30 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 3/8 in | 3/8 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 5/8 in | 5/8 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 40% at 30 A, 40 °C | 40% at 30 A, 40 °C |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | Blowback | - |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 5 cfm, 90 psi | 5 cfm, 90 psi |
| Weight | 19 lb | 19 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2011-11 |