Best Pipe Cutters of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Pipe cutters are essential tools for any plumber or DIY enthusiast. These handy devices are designed to make the task of cutting pipes easier and more efficient. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different needs and applications. From manual cutters that require physical effort to electric models that make the job almost effortless, there is a pipe cutter to suit every need. Some cutters even have adjustable blades to ensure a precise cut every time. Whether you're working on a small plumbing project or a larger commercial job, a pipe cutter is an essential tool to have in your arsenal.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife Cover #TOP 1
DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter Cover #TOP 2
Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.7
RIDGID Model 223S Tubing and Pipe Reamer Cover #TOP 3
RIDGID Model 223S Tubing and Pipe Reamer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Pipe Cutters

DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife

DIY001RD
2 Pack
DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife Cover
DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife Box Cutter Retractable Razor Blade Heavy Duty Box Cutters Knife PVC Pipe Cutter (Red)

DIYSELF 2Pack Utility Knife is an economical and disposable box cutting blades with a comfortable grip and wider retractable blade. It is ready to use, cut, and toss or keep some around as a spare utility knife in your garage, tool kit, home, and office. The heavy-duty blade is ideal for thicker cuts and can be used for commercial or industrial applications. The razor blade allows for deep exact cuts and prevents blade slipping with the lock tab. The package contains 2-piece heavy-duty retractable box cutters with 8 different colors to choose from.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Sharp blades
Affordable price
Easy blade replacement
Bright color options
What We Don't Like
Limited blade storage
Minor cosmetic marks

Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter

PIPC01B131
Orange
Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
Bates- PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts up to 1-1/4", Ratcheting PVC Pipe Cutter Tool, Pipe Cutters PVC, PVC Pipe Shears, PVC Cutter, Plastic Pipe Cutter, PEX Pipe Cutter, PVC Cutter Tool, PVC Ratchet Cutter

The Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter is a powerful and easy-to-use tool for cutting through plastic pipes and tubes. It features a ratchet mechanism that makes cutting through pipes quick and easy, and a rubber-textured handle for a comfortable grip. The triangle design at the edge of the knife allows better access to the pipe, while the unique structure design makes it easy to cut pipes with a few presses. It is an essential cutting tool for handymen, plumbers, electricians, and vehicle mechanics.

What We Like
Clean, precise cuts
Sturdy build quality
Easy to use
Good value
Versatile pipe compatibility
What We Don't Like
Durability unproven long-term
Manual effort for many cuts

RIDGID Model 223S Tubing and Pipe Reamer

223S
Chrome
Small
RIDGID Model 223S Tubing and Pipe Reamer Cover
RIDGID 29983 Model 223S 1/4" to 1-1/4" Inner/Outer Copper and Stainless Steel Tubing and Pipe Reamer, Small

The RIDGID Model 223S Tubing and Pipe Reamer is a high-quality tool designed to quickly and easily ream stainless steel and copper tubing and pipes with an outside diameter capacity of 1/4" to 1-1/4". It features 45 cutting edges on the interior cone for fast and clean inner reaming and outer deburring and beveling of tubes, as well as a dual imperial inch and metric measurement bar for easy adjusting and usage. It is constructed from hardened steel for maximum durability and can withstand heavy-duty and daily use.

What We Like
Sharp, high-quality cutters
Works on multiple pipe materials
Solid metal construction
Easy and efficient to use
Long-lasting durability
What We Don't Like
A bit pricey
Limited to smaller pipe sizes
#TOP 4

DOMINOX Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter with SK5 Blade

DM-317-64
2-1/2"
DOMINOX Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter with SK5 Blade Cover
DOMINOX PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts up to 2-1/2" PEX, PVC, PPR, Plastic Hoses& Plumbing Pipes,Ratchet PVC Cutter Tool with SK5 Blade and Aluminum Alloy Body

The DOMINOX Ratchet PVC Cutter makes cutting pipes easier and more efficient. Its high-quality SK5 blade stays sharp and resists rust, so you can rely on it for long-lasting use without worrying about blade damage. The aluminum alloy handle is lightweight yet strong, giving you a tool that won’t tire your hand during extended work. Thanks to its sharp blade and pointed angle design, you’ll get smooth, clean cuts quickly, almost like slicing through butter. Plus, the ratchet mechanism lets you apply steady pressure with less effort, reducing strain on your hand and wrist. This cutter is comfortable to hold and practical for any plumbing job.

What We Like
Effortless cutting action
Sharp blade performance
Minimal hand strength required
Suitable for various pipe sizes
Clean cuts without plastic dust
What We Don't Like
Challenging with larger pipes
Replacement blade quality varies
#TOP 5

Spurtar Mini Tubing Cutter

TAC0018
Black
Spurtar Mini Tubing Cutter Cover
Spurtar Mini Pipe Cutter Tool 1/8 to 1-1/8 inch (3-28mm) Tube Cutter for Copper, Brass, Aluminum Pipe for Plumbing, HVAC Work, Automotive Repairs, DIY Projects

The Spurtar Mini Tubing Cutter is a must-have tool for plumbers, electricians, vehicle mechanics, and hobbyists. This metal pipe cutting tool has an adjustable cutting capacity range between 1/8 inch to 1-1/8 inch and is suitable for cutting soft and hard copper, aluminum, brass, plastic tubes, and thin-walled stainless steel pipes. It features a sturdy, lightweight slide, wheel housing, and large knurled screw knob for easy control of cutting pressure. Customers have praised its ability to cut 3/4 inch copper water pipes, aluminum bike steer tubes, and small diameter soft copper and brass tubing.

What We Like
Clean, precise cuts
Easy to use
Good value for money
Works on copper tubing
Compact size
What We Don't Like
Not ideal for heavy-duty use
May struggle with larger pipes
#TOP 6

ValueMax PEX Cutter with Sharp Steel Blade

V101001AZ
ValueMax PEX Cutter with Sharp Steel Blade Cover
ValueMax PEX Cutter with Sharp Blade, Hose Cutter with 1/8"-1" Cutting Capacity, Tubing Cutter for PEX, PPR, PE, PP and Rubber Hoses, Suitable for Home and Plumbing Repairs

The ValueMax PEX Pipe Cutter is designed to make cutting pipes easier and more precise. It features a sharp steel blade that stays rust-free, ensuring clean, smooth cuts without rough edges, which helps you get accurate results every time. The cutter’s compact design includes a lock to keep the blade safely closed when you’re not using it, so you can carry it around without worrying about accidents. Thanks to the spring-loaded mechanism, you can quickly position and operate the cutter with one hand, saving you time and effort. Plus, its lightweight aluminum body means it won’t tire you out during longer tasks.

What We Like
Clean and precise cuts
Comfortable sturdy grip
Works on various tubing
High-quality durable material
Easy to find bright color
#TOP 7

IWISS PEX Pipe Cutters

Original Version
Small
IWISS PEX Pipe Cutters Cover
IWISS iCrimp PEX Pipe Cutters Tool for Cutting 1/8"-1" PEX Tubings, NOT for PVC Pipes

The IWISS PEX Pipe Cutters are an easy to use, great value cutting tool to handle cutting 1/8 in., 1/4 in., 3/8 in., 1/2 in., 3/4 in., and 1 in. PEX A, B, C pipe. Its spring-loaded handle opens easily so you can make multiple cuts quickly and accurately. With its compact design, it's easy to store in your pocket or tool box. The shear cutting feature creates a clean and burr free cut for either Push to Connect PEX fittings or brass crimp fittings.

What We Like
Clean, precise cuts
Easy to use
Lightweight and compact
Great value for money
Versatile applications
What We Don't Like
Minor hand fatigue
Not for PVC pipes
#TOP 8

DEWALT Impact Connect Pipe Cutter with Diamond Wheel

DWAIPCIR
Black
One Size
DEWALT Impact Connect Pipe Cutter with Diamond Wheel Cover
DEWALT Impact Connect Pipe Cutter, PVC Cutter, Diamond Grit Cutting Wheel (DWAIPCIR)

The DEWALT Impact Pipe Cutter offers a diamond grit cutting wheel that lasts up to 10 times longer, letting you handle tough cutting tasks without frequent replacements. It cuts through pipes twice as fast as traditional inside pipe cutters, saving you valuable time on the job. This tool is versatile, easily cutting PVC pipes from 1-1/4 inches to 8 inches in size, which means you can use it for many different projects. Plus, the blade is permanently fixed, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off while you work, giving you confidence and safety during use.

What We Like
Integrated measurement markings
Clean, precise pipe cuts
Effective in tight spaces
Works on PVC and cast iron
Time and effort saving
What We Don't Like
Stability could be improved
Uncertain long-term durability

Suwtiin Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter

Suwtiin
Pipe Cutter-Huang
Suwtiin Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts up to 1-5/8", Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter Tool for Cutting PVC, PPR, PE, PEX, Plastic Hoses & Plumbing Pipes, Fast Pipe Tube Cutters, Stainless Steel Blade and Aluminum Alloy Body

The Suwtiin PVC Pipe Cutter makes cutting pipes easier and more efficient. Its stainless steel blade and strong aluminum alloy body ensure long-lasting durability and reliable performance. The ratchet mechanism helps you cut smoothly by locking the blade in place step-by-step, so you don’t need to apply much force, reducing strain on your hands and wrists. Additionally, a safety lock keeps the cutter closed when not in use, preventing accidents and saving storage space. This tool is perfect for anyone working with PVC and similar pipes, offering a cleaner and more controlled cutting experience.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel blade
Strong aluminum alloy body
Effort-saving ratchet mechanism
Safety lock for secure storage
#TOP 10

Klein Tools 50063 Ratcheting Pipe Cutter

50063
Klein Tools 50063 Ratcheting Pipe Cutter Cover
Klein Tools 50063 Ratcheting PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts 1-1/4-Inch I.D. PVC, CPVC, PEX Pipes, One-Handed Operation, Replaceable Blades

The Klein Ratcheting Pipe Cutter is designed to make your plumbing tasks easier. It can cut pipes with an inner diameter of up to 1-1/4 inches, making it versatile for various materials like PVC, CPVC, and PEX. The lightweight design, featuring soft-molded handles, provides a comfortable grip, allowing you to work without straining your hand. With its durable ratcheting blade, you can effortlessly retract the blade when not in use, enhancing safety. Plus, the tool's one-handed operation means you can easily manage cuts while holding other tools or materials.

What We Like
Clean, precise cuts
Sharp, durable blade
Ergonomic, comfortable grip
Easy ratcheting mechanism
High build quality
What We Don't Like
Blade may bend over time
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best Pipe Cutters

Cutting pipes is a very common task, be they PVC, aluminum, copper, iron or even plastic. The cut we get with other types of tools is not as perfect or rushed as we will get with the so-called pipe cutter.

It is that this tool, also called plumber pipe cutter, has as its fundamental part the blade: with it is what the cut is made with. The pipe cutters are manufactured by injecting the metal alloy into special molds.

Later some of its parts are painted, melting the paint in the piece so that it adheres. The pipe cutter is essential in tasks of the water and air sector and is widely used to work with air conditioners or gas installations.

Parts of the pipe cutter

We can define four basic parts of the pipe cutter and make sure you choose the cutter with these parts.

  • Sliding: advances the cutting blade
  • Rollers: to support the pipe we want to cut
  • Blade: made of a special material called tool steel. This material stands out for its high carbon content, which is what ensures high hardness.
  • Jaw grip: to hold the pipe

Types of pipe cutters

There are 3 main types of pipe cutters, here we tell you a little about each type:

Scissors: it is suitable for soft pipes. As the name implies, it has a scissor shape and one of its leaves constitutes a surface on which the turn that will allow our cut can be made.

Pipe cutter G-shaped: The pipe to be cut is inserted into this G and is thus well secured. It has two rollers on which the blade rotates. The cut is made during this rotation of the pipe through the blade. The mechanism is very simple: some measures can be adjusted to make the blade stick to the pipe.

Slicer cutter: It is used to make cuts in internal threads or outside the pipes. It has a total of three parallel blades that can be moved up. The good thing about this type of pipe cutter is that it allows you to embed it in a lathe and make the cut automatically.

Operation

The mechanism of a pipe cutter is very simple and effective: it consists of being able to adjust the pipe to be cut, turn the wheel and in this way actuate the blade, the action can be repeated until the desired cut is achieved. Its drive is completely manual. As a result, we get a clean and straight cut.

The type of pipe cutter you choose will have to do with the function you need to fulfill. Look at the dimensions of the pipes you normally need to cut. This way you may have enough with a tool of few dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a pipe cutter and a tube cutter?

Pipe cutters and tube cutters have different applications based on the materials they can cut. Tube cutters are designed for softer materials like PVC, while pipe cutters are more suitable for cutting harder materials like steel and iron.

2. How many types of pipe cutters are there?

There are two types of pipe cutters available. Plastic tubing cutters, resembling pruning shears, are suitable for thinner pipes and tubes like sprinkler pipes. For thicker pipes, there are pipe cutters with a sharp wheel and adjustable jaw grips.

3. What do plumbers use to cut metal pipes?

Plumbers use pipe cutters to cut metal pipes to the desired length. These tools are small, easy to handle, and come in various sizes depending on the pipe's size. Additionally, plumbers use plumber's tape, also known as Teflon tape, to seal joints and pipe threads.

4. Will a pipe cutter cut through steel?

Yes, a pipe cutter is designed to cut through various materials, including steel, copper, bronze, and aluminum tube sections. The tool's 'C' shape contains rollers and a cutting blade on the inside edge, allowing for easy cutting of steel pipes.

5. Can you cut PEX with a regular pipe cutter?

Yes, you can cut PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) with a regular pipe cutter, especially one designed for PEX tubing. A pipe cutter ensures a straight cut without much effort, regardless of the tubing diameter.

6. What size of pipe can you cut with the pipe cutter?

Pipe cutters are available in various sizes, but most commonly, they can cut pipes up to two inches in diameter. PVC cutters, for example, can handle pipe sizes up to 1 1/4 inches and are priced affordably, starting at around $10.

Editor's Notes

During our pipe cutter research, we found 24 pipe cutter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 82,157 customer reviews through our big data system to write the pipe cutters list. We found that most customers choose pipe cutters with an average price of $14.77.

The pipe cutters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of pipe cutters, including DIYSELF, Bates Choice, RIDGID, DOMINOX, Spurtar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,912 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.