Skip to content
WeldEver

WeldEver

Provideing information about welding and help to learn

Menu
  • Home
  • Recommended Products
  • Buying Guide
  • Maintenance
  • Blog
  • FAQS
Menu
Inverter vs. Transformer

Inverter vs. Transformer – Which Plasma Cutter to Choose?

Posted on April 3, 2022April 3, 2022 by Popy
77 / 100 SEO Score

Like any technology, plasma cutters today are significantly more advanced than their previous versions. Due to technological advancement, the market has a plethora of inverter vs. transformer plasma cutters. It is quite challenging to choose between these 2 options in such a situation.

Inverter and transformer plasma cutter – both have similarities and dissimilarities. The main difference is transformer plasma cutters are for cutting aluminum oxides only. Meanwhile, inverter plasma cutters are suitable for stainless steel, aluminum, copper, mild steel, alloy steel, etc.

We have compiled essential information about plasma cutters for you to make the selection process easy. Continue reading the difference between inverter and transformer plasma cutter.

Comparison Chart – Inverter vs. Transformer

Table of Contents

We prepared this comparison chart based on the key features. Read it carefully, which will help you make a precise decision.

SpecificationsInverter Plasma CutterTransformer Plasma Cutter
Working ProcessConverts alternate current to a lower usable voltage outputTransformer plasma cutter uses rectifiers to convert AC to DC
Duty Cycle65% – 100%, eliminating overheat issue25% – 35%, getting overheat and frequent break is necessary
DurabilityLess than transformer plasma cutterLong
WeightLightweight. You can carry them easily in your job siteBulky
Stability & Effectivenesstwice as effective as transformer plasma cuttersAppealing efficiency level
Cut QualityDelivers clean and smooth cutAverage cutting quality
PriceCost-efficient, saving 10% on your electricity billBudget-friendly
Suitable forBeginnersSkilled and experienced

Inverter vs. Transformer Plasma Cutter: In-depth Discussion

So, how do inverters and transformers stack up against one another? Undoubtedly, inverter plasma cutters are considered the industry standard; some welders also prefer transformers.

Let’s read the in-depth discussion below.

Permanence

Characteristically, transformer plasma cutters are designed for handling heavy-duty tasks. The durability of transformers is also impressive, that you will get many years of efficient service.

On the other hand, the duty cycle of inverter plasma cutters is comparatively low, making them suitable for home use, and light to medium-duty tasks. However, a few models are available which has a high-duty cycle and can be used in industrial and construction sites. Sadly, the durability of inverter plasma cutters is uncertain.

Stability & Effectiveness

Over the last 50 years, many technological advancements have happened in the transformer plasma cutter. A premium quality transformer plasma cutter will help you attain an appealing efficiency without compromising on the stability of the ARC.

When compared to the inverter plasma cutter, this effectiveness is significantly poor. Inverters are 2X times more effective than transformers. For example, inverter plasma cutters will deliver the same result as a transformer plasma cutter using half the amperes. For this reason, inverters are workable with a common house socket. Buying a separate 220 V plugin or a generator is unnecessary. They also have a more stable arc.

Cutting Quality

Cutting quality is the heart of a plasma cutter which depends on the arc and product construction.

Perfection is a mandatory factor in every plasma cutting project. Since inverter plasma cutters have a more stable arc than transformer plasma cutters, inverter delivers clean and smooth results.

If precision is your top priority, we recommend using the inverter model. Due to clean and smooth-cutting results, you won’t have to spend much time cleaning the material edge or corner. While after cutting material with a transformer plasma cutter, cleanliness is required, and you have to spend additional time to complete a project.

Resistance to mechanical damage and weather conditions

Transformer plasma cutters efficiently withstand mechanical damage and different weather conditions. You can use them in severe working conditions. They offer efficient performance in both low and high temperatures as well. Even high humidity and dust levels can’t impact their performance. Moreover, in the event of a malfunction, the maintenance and repair cost of the transformer plasma cutter is cheaper and simpler.

But inverter plasma cutters are not designed to be worked in harsh conditions. They are not as good as transformers in low and high temperatures. That is why caution is mandatory during use. Moreover, repairing is costly when they break down.  

Duty Cycle

Inverter plasma cutters require relatively less electricity and energy. It means they don’t get overheated quickly. These features make them cost-efficient and economical. Most inverter plasma cutters work at 65% – 100% duty cycle. A high duty cycle means, with inverter plasma cutters, you can work for a long time without taking a frequent break.

While, in the case of a transformer plasma cutter, the range of duty cycle is 25% – 35%. This means they get overheated, which affects the performance of the plasma cutter. When working with a transformer plasma cutter, you need to have proper work planning to cool down the machine frequently.

Design, Weight & Portability

Inverter plasma cutters are actually a significantly essential piece of equipment. They are compact, lightweight, and incredibly portable. Technologically, they are better than transformer plasma cutters. For their lightweight nature, anyone can carry them wherever required. Also, plasma cutters are usually easy to use.

On the flip side, transformers plasma cutters are technologically less complex. They are larger, making them less portable. So, you will sweat to carry them to your job site. Making the precise and clean cut is quite challenging for their less technological features. At the same time, you have to be skilled or experienced to work with a transformer plasma cutter.

Cost

Most transformer plasma cutters are budget-friendly. But inverter plasma cutters are cost-efficient in the long run.

You can save a lot of money buying an inverter plasma cutter. How? As already stated, inverters consume less energy and power, which means that to deliver significant performance, they don’t need high power and energy. As a result, they help you save on electric bills. Because of their enhanced arc stability, they need fewer consumables and a little amount of gas to perform.

But transformers are not an economical option like inverters.

Inverter vs. Transformer Plasma Cutter – Which one to Choose?

Buy transformer plasma cutter, if

  • You have a dedicated workplace for plasma cutting
  • You require to complete heavy-duty tasks

Buy Inverter plasma cutter, if

  • Portability is your top priority
  • You require to cut a wide range of materials
  • You are an amateur looking for flexibility

Frequently Asked Question

Why are inverter plasma cutters better?

Inverter plasma cutters are efficient and provide stable ARC to complete a project. Due to this reason, they are efficient, and stability is also high. Moreover, newer models of inverter plasma cutters come with IGBT or MOSFET technology, making them reliable and less prone to temperature fluctuations.

Why are transformer plasma cutters better?

Transformer-based plasma cutters are suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Also, they resist high and low temperatures and show less wear and tear due to weather conditions.

Final Thought

Your choice for a plasma cutter doesn’t only depend on your budget. Reliability, construction, functionality, and performance under different circumstances play a crucial role when choosing between an inverter and transformer plasma cutter.

Inverter plasma cutters are constantly improving their functionality and budget. On the other hand, transformer plasma cutters are still surfing the market for their dependability and high power performance.

So, before selecting a model, it would always be best to know your preference.

Related posts:

How to Setup a Plasma Cutter – For First-time Users

Do You Need an Air Compressor for a Plasma Cutter?

How Many Types of Plasma Cutter – A Comprehensive Guide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

WeldEver About Us

Welding is an incredible vocation decision for individuals who like to construct things with their hands and stand out to detail. It requires a broad measure of information and expertise yet the individuals who get a strong handle of the regarded exchange they're compensated with gigantic open positions and top-notch pay.

Recent Posts

  • Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder
    Hobart 500559 Handler 140 MIG Welder 115V Review and Buying Guide
  • Dual Voltage MIG Welder
    Advantages of A Dual Voltage MIG Welder
  • Difference between MIG and TIG gloves
    What is the difference between MIG and TIG gloves?
  • Best Welding Gloves
    Top 5 Best Welding Gloves Buying guide 2025
  • Best Multifunction Dual Voltage Welding Machine
    Best Multifunction Dual Voltage Welding Machine
  • if a MIG Welder is out of Gas
    How do You Tell if a MIG Welder is out of Gas?
  • Do You Need an Air Compressor for a Plasma Cutter
    Do You Need an Air Compressor for a Plasma Cutter?
  • How to Setup a Plasma Cutter
    How to Setup a Plasma Cutter – For First-time Users
  • What is a MIG Welder Used for
    What is a MIG Welder Used for?
  • Can You TIG Weld without Gas
    Can You TIG Weld without Gas?

Quick Links

  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • About
  • Contact

Disclaimer:

WeldEver is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

© 2025 WeldEver | Powered by Superbs Personal Blog theme
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Cookie SettingsAccept All
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT