A low-cost pilot arc cutter for garage and farm repair on steel up to 1/2 in. It suits buyers who want non-touch starts on rusty metal without spending more.
Amazon $199.98 Lotos $165.98The Lotos LOP55D is the better plasma cutter overall, rated 3.9 to 3.5. The Lotos LOP55D leads on pilot arc. The Lotos LT5000D costs $26 less ($139.98 vs $165.98).
A budget touch-start cutter for clean steel up to 1/2 in in a home shop. Buyers who cut rusty, painted or mesh stock should pay more for a pilot arc.
Amazon $199.97 Lotos $139.98Prices 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 Lotos LOP55D for pilot arc (pilot arc vs no pilot arc).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every over 45 A plasma cutter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Lotos LOP55D | Lotos LT5000D |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Value 30% | 100 $331.96 per inch of rated cut ($165.98, 1/2 in) | 100 $279.96 per inch of rated cut ($139.98, 1/2 in) |
| Cut 20% | 0 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel | 0 1/2 in rated cut on mild steel |
| Duty cycle 15% | 100 60% at full output (55 A) | 100 60% at full output (50 A) |
| Pilot arc 10% | 100 pilot arc | 0 no pilot arc |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty on the machine | 50 3-year warranty on the machine |
Specifications
| Lotos LOP55D | Lotos LT5000D | |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting | ||
| Input voltage | 120/240 V | 120/240 V |
| Maximum output | 55 A | 50 A |
| Rated cut, mild steel | 1/2 in | 1/2 in |
| Sever cut, mild steel | 3/4 in | 3/4 in |
| Rated duty cycle | 60% at 55 A, 40 °C | 60% at 50 A, 40 °C |
| Pilot arc | Yes | No |
| Arc start | - | Contact |
| Air and build | ||
| Air supply | 4 cfm, 60 psi | 3.6 cfm, 65 psi |
| CNC port | No | No |
| Weight | 16.5 lb | 20 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
