The Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.1 to 3.0. The Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air leads on duty cycle. The Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 30+ wins on cut. The Lincoln Tomahawk 30 Air costs $91 less ($1,359 vs $1,450).
For 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 $1,359A light, dual voltage cutter for home shops and auto body work up to 3/8 in steel, from an industrial brand with wide dealer support.
Amazon $1,450Prices 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 30 Air | Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 30+ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.1/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 20 $4,348.80 per inch of rated cut ($1,359, 5/16 in) | 24 $3,866.67 per inch of rated cut ($1,450, 3/8 in) |
| Cut 20% | 12 5/16 in rated cut on mild steel | 25 3/8 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 100 60% at full output (30 A) | 50 40% 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 30 Air | Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 30+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 240 V | 120/240 V |
| Maximum output | 30 A | 30 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 5/16 in | 3/8 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 1/2 in | 5/8 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 60% at 30 A | 40% at 30 A |
| Pilot arc | Yes | Yes |
| Arc start | Blowback | - |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | Built-in compressor | 5.8 cfm, 90 psi |
| Weight | 40 lb | 24.2 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2023-02 |
