One of the big differences in plasma cutters is the consumables. I looked at cheap and higher end, and determined that with some usage, the higher end can end up less expensive or at least close. I chose a Hypertherm 30 for about $1k. It's a contact unit, so you're not screwing up tips if your hand isn't steady. I don't know how much time I have on it, but I've never worn out a tip set. I replaced some of the stuff just because, but pretty sure they were still serviceable.
Being AZ I can't compare air drying problems. I went with a basic desiccant unit at the cutter end, and have a generic water separator on the regulator. The desiccant seems to run forever before it changes color.