The Hobart AirForce 40i is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 4.1 to 3.8. The Hobart AirForce 40i leads on duty cycle and value. The Hobart AirForce 40i costs $776 less ($2,009 vs $2,785).
A light dual voltage cutter for farms and shops that cut steel up to 5/8 in, backed by Hobart’s long warranty. Hobby users on a budget can get similar cut ratings for much less.
Cyberweld $2,009 Welding Supplies from IOC $2,095A 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 $2,785Prices 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 40i | Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.1/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Value 30% | 30 $3,214.40 per inch of rated cut ($2,009, 5/8 in) | 20 $4,456 per inch of rated cut ($2,785, 5/8 in) |
| Cut 20% | 75 5/8 in rated cut on mild steel | 75 5/8 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 100 60% at full output (40 A) | 75 50% at full output (45 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 100 pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty on the machine | 100 6-year warranty on the machine |
| Hobart AirForce 40i | Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 120/240 V | 240 V |
| Maximum output | 40 A | 45 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 5/8 in | 5/8 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 7/8 in | 1 1/8 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 60% at 40 A, 40 °C | 50% at 45 A, 40 °C |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | Blowback | - |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 6 cfm, 90 psi | 6.7 cfm, 90 psi |
| CNC port | - | No |
| Weight | 21 lb | 31 lb |
| Warranty | 5 years | 6 years |
| Released | - | 2024-05-01 |
