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, cut and duty cycle. The Lincoln Tomahawk 45 wins on value. The Lincoln Tomahawk 45 costs $1,146 less ($1,639 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 $2,785A 230 V shop cutter for farm and fabrication work up to 1/2 in steel, from a big-name maker with dealer support. Buyers who need to cut on household power should look at dual voltage machines.
Amazon $1,639Prices 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 | Lincoln Tomahawk 45 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 20 $4,456 per inch of rated cut ($2,785, 5/8 in) | 30 $3,278 per inch of rated cut ($1,639, 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) | 62 45% at full output (45 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 | Lincoln Tomahawk 45 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 240 V | 240 V |
| Maximum output | 45 A | 45 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 | 45% at 45 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | - | Blowback |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 6.7 cfm, 90 psi | 3.3 cfm, 80 psi |
| CNC port | No | - |
| Weight | 31 lb | 28 lb |
| Warranty | 6 years | 3 years |
| Released | 2024-05-01 | - |
