Short definition
A tubing cutter is the small-format wheel cutter for copper, CPVC, PEX, and brass tubing. It is the same tool as a pipe cutter at smaller sizes — the DIY shelf labels small-OD cutters as “tubing cutters” and larger ones as “pipe cutters.”
What it is
A tubing cutter has a compact frame, a knob-driven hardened wheel, and two opposing rollers. Mini or midget versions rotate in as little as 1.5 inches of clearance around the pipe — useful in tight cabinet bays where a full-size cutter can’t swing. The standard Ridgid 15 (and Milwaukee equivalents) handles 3/16 to 1 1/8 inch copper. Most tubing cutters include a fold-out conical reamer for the inside burr.
For full operating notes, failure modes, and variant comparisons, see the canonical entry: Pipe cutter.
Why it matters to a homeowner
The mini tubing cutter is the under-sink hero. Replacing a faucet supply line, swapping a water-heater nipple, or splicing a frozen-burst section all live in spaces where a full-size cutter can’t rotate. A $15 midget cutter that fits in a coat pocket beats a hacksaw on those jobs every time.