Best Ratcheting Pipe Cutters of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Ratcheting pipe cutters are an essential tool for any plumber or DIY enthusiast. These cutters are designed to make clean, precise cuts on a variety of pipe materials, including PVC, copper, and steel. The ratcheting mechanism allows for easy, one-handed cutting, while the sharp blade ensures a smooth cut with minimal effort. With their compact size and lightweight design, ratcheting pipe cutters are easy to carry and store, making them a must-have for any toolbox. Whether you're working on a plumbing project at home or on the job site, ratcheting pipe cutters are a reliable and efficient tool that will help you get the job done quickly and easily.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter Cover #TOP 1
Bates Ratchet-Type PVC Pipe Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter Cover #TOP 2
Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Bates PVC Pipe Cutter Cover #TOP 3
Bates PVC Pipe Cutter
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Ratcheting Pipe Cutters

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
Cuts cleaner than a chop saw
Quick and easy to use
Great value for the price
Durable and reliable
Suitable for various types of PVC pipe

Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter

900920
Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter, Up to 2-1/2", Ratchet Pipe Cutter Heavy-Duty, Pex Cutting Tool for Cutting PEX, PVC, PPR Plastic Hoses and Plumbing Pipe

The Libraton PVC Pipe Cutter is a heavy-duty ratchet pipe cutter designed to cut a variety of plastic pipes and tubes, such as PVC, CPVC, PP-R, PEX, PE, and rubber hoses. It features a durable aluminum alloy steel body, a thick 3mm SK5 blade with precision sharpening and Teflon coating, a spring-loaded ergonomic handle for a reliable grip and powerful bite force, and a Quick Change system for easy blade replacement. This professional pex cutter is ideal for home handymen, plumbers, electricians, and vehicle mechanics.

What We Like
Easy to use
Fast and clean cuts
Durable and stays sharp
#TOP 3

Bates PVC Pipe Cutter

EWXK001B419VC
Sky Blue
Bates PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
Bates- PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts up to 1-1/4", Sky Blue Ratcheting PVC Pipe Cutter Tool, Pipe Cutters PVC Pipe Shears, Plastic Pipe Cutter, PEX Pipe Cutter, PVC Cutter Tool, PVC Ratchet Cutter

The Bates Pipe Cutter is designed for effortless and precise cutting of pipes up to 1-1/4 inches in diameter. Its sharp SK5 blade allows you to make smooth, clean cuts in various materials like PVC and PEX, saving you time and effort. The ratchet mechanism enhances leverage, enabling you to use it with just one hand while minimizing strain on your fingers. Additionally, the tool features a safety lock and stainless steel buckle for secure storage, ensuring you can handle it safely when it's not in use.

What We Like
Sharp SK5 blade
One-hand operation
Safety lock feature
Ergonomic grip
#TOP 4

RIDGID 23498 Model RC-1625 Aluminum Ratchet Action 1/8" to 1-5/8" Plastic Pipe And Tubing Cutter

23498
Silver
Small
RIDGID 23498 Model RC-1625 Aluminum Ratchet Action 1/8" to 1-5/8" Plastic Pipe And Tubing Cutter Cover
RIDGID 23498 Model RC-1625 Aluminum Ratchet Action 1/8" to 1-5/8" Plastic Pipe And Tubing Cutter, Silver, Small

The RIDGID 23498 Model RC-1625 Aluminum Ratchet Action 1/8" to 1-5/8" Plastic Pipe And Tubing Cutter is a heavy-duty tool designed to make clean and precise cuts to the length needed on a variety of plastic and multilayer tubing. It features an X-CEL quick change blade system for easy blade changes, an ergonomic handle for easy measuring, and a durable aluminum build for long-lasting use. Customers have praised its ability to make straight cuts and its solid construction.

What We Like
Easy to use
Precise and clean cuts
Durable aluminum construction
#TOP 5

SHALL PVC Pipe Cutter

SHALL
SH221002
2-1/2 inch
SHALL PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
SHALL PVC Pipe Cutter, Cuts up to 2-1/2”, Heavy-Duty Aluminum Ratchet Pipe Cutter Tool for PVC, PPR, PE, PEX, Plastic Hoses & Plumbing Pipes, Fast Pipe Tube Cutters with High Performance SK5 Blade

The SHALL Pipe Cutter Tool by SHALL is a high-performance tool designed for cutting various pipes with precision. Its durable aluminum body and SK5 blade with Teflon coating ensure longevity. The V-shape blade design allows for easy pipe penetration, reducing damage. This ratchet pipe cutter can handle pipes up to 2-1/2'' outside diameter, including PVC, PPR, PEX, PE, and more. The ratchet drive technology saves you effort, making one-handed cutting effortless. The ergonomic handle with a non-slip grip ensures comfort during long work sessions. Plus, the safety lock adds peace of mind when storing the tool.

What We Like
Durable SK5 blade
Versatile pipe cutting
Ratchet drive for efficiency
#TOP 6

RIDGID RC-2375 Ratchet Action Pipe and Tubing Cutter

30088
Chrome
Small
RIDGID RC-2375 Ratchet Action Pipe and Tubing Cutter Cover
RIDGID 30088 RC-2375 Aluminum 2" Ratchet Action Pipe and Tubing Cutter for Plastic and Multilayer Tubing, 1/8" to 2-3/8" O.D. Capacity, Small

The RIDGID RC-2375 Ratchet Action Pipe and Tubing Cutter is a versatile tool designed to cut plastic and multilayer tubing. Its "Burr-less" cutting operation ensures a square cut with minimal effort. It features an easily replaceable X-CEL quick change blade and is constructed with sturdy aluminum to withstand heavy-duty use. With a 1/8-inch to 2-3/8-inch outer diameter capacity, this tubing cutter is perfect for a variety of applications.

What We Like
Can easily cut through various types of plastic and multilayer tubing.
Produces a square cut with minimal effort thanks to its "Burr-less" cutting operation.
Features an easily replaceable X-CEL quick change blade for added convenience.
Constructed with sturdy aluminum to withstand heavy-duty use.
#TOP 7

WORKPRO Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter

W101018
2-1/2"(63mm)
WORKPRO Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
WORKPRO Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter Tool, Up to 2-1/2", Pex Cutting Tool for Cutting PEX, PVC, PPR, and Plastic Hoses with Sharp 5Cr15MoV Stainless Steel Blades, Suitable for Home Repairs and Plumbers

The WORKPRO Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter is a must-have cutting tool for handymen, plumbers, electricians, and vehicle mechanics. It is made of durable aluminum alloy steel with a 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blade, and is designed to cut plastic pipes and tubes up to 2-1/2" in diameter. The ratchet drive design ensures automatic locking during the cutting process, and the ergonomic spring-loaded handle provides a reliable grip and strong bite. It is a great tool for home repairs and DIY projects, and comes with a plastic buckle for easy storage and a safety lock to prevent accidental injury.

What We Like
Made of durable aluminum alloy steel with a 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blade
Designed to cut plastic pipes and tubes up to 2-1/2" in diameter
Ratchet drive design ensures automatic locking during the cutting process
Ergonomic spring-loaded handle provides a reliable grip and strong bite
Comes with a plastic buckle for easy storage and a safety lock to prevent accidental injury
#TOP 8

AIRAJ Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter

2-1/2“
Orange
2-1/2''(64mm MAX)
AIRAJ Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
AIRAJ Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter,Cuts up to 2-1/2"PEX,PVC,PPR and Plastic Hoses,Pipe Cutters with Sharp SK5 Stainless Steel Blades,Suitable for Home Repairs and Plumbers

The AIRAJ Ratchet PVC Pipe Cutter is a durable and reliable tool for cutting most kinds of plastic and multilayer tubing. It is made of manganese steel and high-quality aluminum alloy for strength and durability, and features a ratchet drive design for auto-locking and easy one-handed cutting. The rubber handle is comfortable and powerful, and the stainless buckle ensures a secure grip. It can cut up to 2-1/2" pipes, making it suitable for home repairs and plumbers.

What We Like
High quality construction
Wide application
Safe and convenient
Labor-saving
Ergonomic handle design
#TOP 9

AIRAJ PVC Pipe Cutter

2301
Orange
1-5/8''(42mm)
AIRAJ PVC Pipe Cutter Cover
AIRAJ- PVC Pipe Cutter | Cuts up to 1-5/8" (1.6'') | Ratcheting PVC Cutter Tool | PEX Pipe Cutter | V Shaped SK5 Steel Blade | For cutting PVCCPVCPPPEXPE Plastic Pipes

The AIRAJ PVC Pipe Cutter is a great tool for cutting PVC, CPVC, PP, PEX, and PE pipes. It features a ratchet-drive design for fast, safe, and labor-saving cutting, and its SK5 steel blade with teflon coating is sharp and wearproof. The ergonomic handle is covered with soft rubber for a comfortable grip, and the aluminum alloy body is strong and durable. This PVC pipe cutter is suitable for plumbers and household repairman.

What We Like
Ratcheting auto-locking structure for fast and safe cutting
SK5 steel blade with teflon coating is sharp and wearproof
Ergonomic handle with soft rubber for comfortable grip
High-quality aluminum alloy body is strong and durable
Suitable for cutting various pipes
#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
Versatile cutting capabilities
Comfortable soft-molded handles
Durable retractable ratcheting blade
Easy one-handed operation
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a ratchet cutter?

Ratchet chain pipe cutters are similar to single-stroke manual chain cutters, but feature a ratchet-action cutting capability. Ratchet chain pipe cutters ease the strain involved in producing a cut. Wheeler-Rex ratchet chain pipe cutters consist of a flexible chain that wraps around the pipe and locks in place.

2. What is the best tool to cut copper pipe?

A copper tubing cutter (also called an autocut tubing cutter for some reason) is the best way we know how to work in close quarters. It ensures a straight, even cut and doesn't deform the shape of the pipe. These cutters come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Editor's Notes

During our ratcheting pipe cutter research, we found 24 ratcheting pipe cutter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 53,503 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ratcheting pipe cutters list. We found that most customers choose ratcheting pipe cutters with an average price of $19.81.

The ratcheting pipe cutters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ratcheting pipe cutters, including Bates Choice, LIBRATON, RIDGID, SHALL, WORKPRO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,814 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.