The influence of surface preparation methods after plasma cutting on the quality of weld zone was investigated. For comparison, three types of welded specimens were prepared by machining (WM), plasma cutting with light regrinding (WPG) and without regrinding (WP), by using three kinds of materials, carbon steel (SM45C), stainless steel (STS304) and aluminum alloy (A6061-T6). Nondestructive examination, hardness test, microstructure examination, and fracture toughness test were performed. The results showed that there was no appreciable reduction in hardness or fracture toughness in WP specimens. But a little difference in heat affected zone size was observed.