Test result preview
Manufacturer’s product description
The MINOVA Styrofoam cutter is a well-designed tool for precise cutting of Styrofoam and hard foam boards. Particularly noteworthy is the long cutting length of up to 1,300 millimeters, which can easily handle even larger boards. The ability to adjust angles between 0 and 90 degrees allows for clean miter cuts and diagonal cuts. A ball-bearing sliding mechanism ensures that the heating wire glides smoothly and in a controlled manner. Even during longer periods of use, the device remains stable and does not overheat thanks to its air-cooled 260-watt power supply. The included accessories —including cutting wires, Styrogrips, a grinding rasp, and a sturdy soft bag —make the device ready for immediate use. The heating wire can be tensioned and adjusted without tools, which makes setup much easier.
Overall, the Styrofoam cutter is a professional device that is also suitable for ambitious DIY enthusiasts.
Advantages
- Air-cooled
- Easy cleaning
- Adjustable temperature
- Rotatable
Disadvantages
- More temperature adjustment levels would be desirable
First impression
Packaging and contents
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course be ensured. Is the contents of the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course be ensured. Is the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Product protection
Cardboard is sturdy, product adequately protected
Points
Sustainability of packaging
Unfortunately, unnecessary packaging waste was not avoided
Points
Package contents & scope
Complete
Points
Instructions
Product is self-explanatory
Points
TOTAL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum number of points is 100
When opening the packaging, the well-thought-out composition of the set is immediately apparent. Everything is neatly stowed away, the individual parts are well padded and appear to be securely packed. The case makes a durable impression and offers space for all accessories. Particularly positive: it comes with clear instructions that explain the assembly step by step. The cutting wires are packaged separately, which prevents damage. The first impression is that you are holding a high-quality and complete set in your hands.
First time in hand
Product workmanship and appearance
Before we move on to the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Before we put the products to the test, we take a close look at their workmanship. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Visual appearance
Appealing design
Points
Workmanship
Very good workmanship
Points
Stability
Very stable
Points
Sustainability of the product
No information
Points
OVERALL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Solidly constructed and comfortable to hold – this is how the MINOVA Styrofoam cutter presents itself in practical use. The metal parts appear sturdy and cleanly welded, while the plastic elements are well deburred and do not give a cheap impression. The rotating cutting unit is particularly impressive, as it is easy to adjust and enables precise angle work. Even after prolonged use, the hot wire remains constantly hot without any signs of overheating or loss of performance. Operation is intuitive, with all switches and controls sensibly positioned and easily accessible. Visually, the device makes a functional, rather matter-of-fact impression—it is not a design object, but clearly designed for efficiency. Accessories such as guide rails and replacement wires are neatly finished and complement the overall package well. Overall, the Styrofoam cutter makes a reliable impression that will certainly prove its worth for ambitious DIY enthusiasts.
This is what our practical test revealed
Does the manufacturer deliver on its advertising promises?
Our practical test has the highest relevance and therefore weighting. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test item.
Our practical test is the most relevant and therefore carries the most weight. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test item.
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Cutting quality
Cut is completely clean, smooth, and shows no irregularities
Points
Ease of use
Very comfortable to use
Points
Safety during use
Works perfectly in all tests
Points
Mobility and transportability
The Styrofoam cutter is easy to carry thanks to its practical case
Points
Easy to clean and maintain
Can be completely cleaned with minimal time and simple means
Points
OVERALL
100
Points
Weighting: 45%
*The maximum score is 100 points
MINOVA promises a cutting device that is ready for immediate use, precise, and durable— and this promise is largely fulfilled. The simple installation without tools actually works without any problems. The promised angle adjustment and high cutting length can also be used as specified. The air-cooled power supply delivers what it promises: no overheating, even during prolonged use. The accessories are complete and well chosen, so you can get started right away. The coil tensioning device for the heating wire in particular shows that practical considerations were taken into account here. Advertising promises such as“precise cuts”and “robust workmanship”are not empty phrases, but are reflected in actual use. Overall, the product gives the impression that the manufacturer has understood its target group and delivers what it promises.
Test plan
A detailed insight into the evaluation criteria for the practical part of the test and the distribution of points can be found here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Price/performance ratio
and consumer reviews
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend it for purchase?
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend it for purchase?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Price/performance ratio
Very good performance in the upper price segment
Points
TOTAL
70
Points
Weighting: 15%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Prices of up to €129.99 are charged online for equivalent products. Very inexpensive products are available from as little as €85.99 . The MINOVA rotary polystyrene cutter is currently in the upper price segment at €119.00. The price/performance ratio is rated as very good. This rating takes into account both the high quality and performance as well as the price in the upper segment, resulting in a very good overall ratio.
Overall result
Weight
Score achieved*
1. Packaging & contents
20
Points
2. Product processing & appearance
20
Points
3. Practical test
45
Points
4. Price/performance ratio
15
Points
TOTAL
Points
*The maximum score is 100 points
