The Lincoln Tomahawk 45 is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.3 to 3.1. The Lincoln Tomahawk 45 leads on cut and value. The Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air wins on duty cycle. The Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air costs $280 less ($1,359 vs $1,639).
A 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 $1,639For repair work on 230 V where hauling a compressor is a nuisance, cutting steel up to about 5/16 in. Buyers who already own a compressor get thicker cuts for less from a 40 A machine.
Amazon $1,359Prices 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 | Lincoln Tomahawk 45 | Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.1/5 |
| Value 30% | 30 $3,278 per inch of rated cut ($1,639, 1/2 in) | 20 $4,348.80 per inch of rated cut ($1,359, 5/16 in) |
| Cut 20% | 50 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel | 12 5/16 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 62 45% at full output (45 A) | 100 60% at full output (30 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 100 pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty on the machine | 50 3-year warranty on the machine |
| Lincoln Tomahawk 45 | Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 240 V | 240 V |
| Maximum output | 45 A | 30 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 1/2 in | 5/16 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 3/4 in | 1/2 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 45% at 45 A | 60% at 30 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | Blowback | Blowback |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 3.3 cfm, 80 psi | Built-in compressor |
| Weight | 28 lb | 40 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
