Once reserved for high-end fabrication shops, CNC plasma cutters have become much more affordable in recent years. In the last year alone, Eastwood has introduced no fewer than three new CNC plasma options specifically for DIY fabricators. The smallest and least expensive of these is the compact Versa Cut 2×2. Boasting a footprint roughly the size of a washing machine, it was designed with small garages and workshops in mind.
Like its larger counterparts – the Versa Cut 4×4 and Versa Cut 4×8 – this unit is fully contained with a built-in controller, integrated water table, and robust gantry. In short, it has all the features of the big boys in a smaller package. As a result, it’s constantly being compared to other small tables on the market, including the Langmuir CrossFire.
In fact, at first glance the Langmuir table may even look like a relative bargain compared to Eastwood’s 2×2 table. And it’s true the CrossFire starts at a base price roughly $1,000 less than the Versa Cut. At the time this article was written September 2024), the Langmuir table started at $1495 compared to Eastwood’s $2500. However, dig into the details a bit and a different storyemerges. The base price on the Langmuir includes almost none of the features that make a really useful CNC plasma table.
Let’s look at the features between the two machines to get a more accurate comparison of the ‘all-in’ cost when comparably equipped.
Construction
Both tables boast solid modular construction and are shipped ready to assemble on site. The Easwtood table benefits from a double-sided gantry compared to Langmiur’s single-sided gantry. The second rail makes for a more rigid assembly that prevents the gantry arm from moving vertically during operation. The improved rigidity of this design ensures a more precise torch height for cleaner cuts.
Speaking of torch height, the Eastwood table comes standard with a torch height (or Z-axis) controller. This feature can be added to the Langmuir table for an additional (and rather hefty) $550.
The Eastwood table also include a water table as a standard feature. This helps minimize smoke and cutting debris for a cleaner workspace and less cutting residue on the workpiece. A water table is available as an add-on to the Langmuir table for an additional $150.
The Versa Cut table also includes a built-in limit switch. This allows for a true 0,0 (machine coordinate zero) reference that allows the user to work coordinate offsets, maximizing material efficiency on larger pieces or multiple cuts. Langmuir offers a limit switch add-on for another $95.
Controls
One of the biggest differences between the two tables is their control panels. Or in the case of the Langmiur, the absence of a control panel. Eastwood’s setup features a fully integrated control panel with an LCD display and built-in USB drive for file transfers. The control unit is pre-loaded with numerous projects in its Shape Library.
The Langmuir table requires a computer (typically a laptop) to run their proprietary FireControl software. An optional laptop stand can be added for another $85. While this is not an common setup for a small shop, it does place the computer in close proximity to cutting debris.
All In
The total cost between the Eastwood Versa Cut and the Langmuir CrossFire is much closer when compared with similar features. Requiring no additional options, the Eastwood table remains $2,500. The Langmuir adds up to $2,380 with the addition of the water table, Z-axis control upgrade, limit switch kit, and the laptop stand. Of course, the Langmuir user will also need a laptop or other shop-adjacent computer to run the plasma cutter.
It should also be noted that neither of these setups includes an actual plasma cutter at these prices. Langmuir sells a Razorweld 45-amp cutter for $995, making for an all-in price of $3,370. When purchased as a complete package with Eastwood’s comparable Versa Cut 40 CNC plasma cutter, the all-in price for a full Versa Cut 2×2 CNC plasma table and cutter is just under $3,000.
While the Langmuir CrossFire setup starts out considerably less expensive, the cost of adding quality features quickly brings it close to the base price of the Eastwood Versa Cut. But the all-inclusive Versa Cut 2×2 CNC plasma table and cutter package proves a superior value compared to the fully-equipped Langmiur CrossFire. And no matter how many upgrades you add onto the Langmuir table, it still won’t have the advantages of Eastwood’s double-sided gantry support or integrated control unit.
A laptop is not required to run the machine software. But yes, you still need to perform your file creation and setup on a computer elsewhere. For some that will be a desktop computer in their office. The built-in controller is still offers the advantage of not placing a laptop in the work area.
@Todd, you are correct if you were to buy the table and plasma cutter separately. However, when purchased together as Item #98111, the package price is $2999.97 https://www.eastwood.com/eastwood-versa-cut-2×2-cnc-table-with-cnc-cut-40-and-hand-torch.html
It is misleading to say the lap topo is not required for the Versa cut, as you only have file transfer ability , the model still has to be made on a computer, so a computer /laptop with CAD type ability will still be required. so the fact that it is a direct connection to the Crossfire isn’t relevant, other than doing cad work at the machine would have it’s own Pro’s and Con’s
Math is incorrect on the table, the crossfire list adds up correctly, however the versa cut is 3249.96 not the listed 2999,97. unless there is a discount I didn’t see listed.