Abstract In this study, a new type of plasma-burner reformer was proposed to convert methane or biogas into high-quality energy. The novel reformer is a combined technology as a plasma combustor and a matrix burner. The sequential mechanism of in-line plasma-burner reformer can improve POX reforming in the higher hydrogen-rich gas production. In order to present the performance potential for the novel PBR, the characteristics of conversion and product gases were identified according to the O2/C ratio, total feed gas, CO2: CH4 ratio, and recirculation of reformed gas, and the results are as follows: The reforming characteristics for each variable were identified, and the optimal operating condition of the PMBR was O2/C ratio of 1.0 and total feed gas of 20 L/min. At this time, CH4 conversion was 64%, H2 selectivity was 39%, and H2/CO ratio was 1.13, which were the results applicable to the SOFC fuel cell stack for RPG (Residential Power Generator). Recirculation of reformed gas increased the amount of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which are combustible gases, especially the amount of hydrogen. As a result, the hydrogen selectivity is improved, and high-quality gas can be produced.