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In the world of DIY and crafting, Cricut has become a household name, offering cutting-edge machines that cater to a wide range of creative needs. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a novice looking to delve into the world of precision cutting, choosing the right Cricut machine is essential. In this guide, we’ll compare and contrast various Cricut cutting machines to help you make an informed decision based on your crafting requirements.
Cricut Explore Air 2: starting at $179
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a popular choice among crafters for its versatility and user-friendly design. With the ability to cut over 100 materials, including vinyl, cardstock, and fabric, this machine is a great all-rounder. Its wireless capabilities and compatibility with Cricut Design Space make it easy to create and customize projects seamlessly.
Pros:
- Maximum cut size 11.5 / 23.5 inches.
- Versatile, capable of cutting a wide range of materials such as vinyl, iron-on, glitter paper & bonded fabric1
- Fast cutting speed for efficient project completion.
- Built-in tool holder and extra storage to keep extra tools and accessories within reach
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless convenience.
- Built-in tool holder and extra storage to keep extra tools and accessories within reach
- Affordable price point.
Cons:
- Does not work with smart materials (Smart Materials are Cricut brand materials that dont require a mat)
- Not compatible with Quick Swap tools
- Limited to writing and scoring (not suitable for engraving or debossing).
- Requires an internet connection for Design Space use.
Cricut Explore 3: starting at $249
Building on the success of the Explore Air 2, the Cricut Explore 3 takes wireless creativity to the next level. With improved cutting speeds and compatibility with Smart Materials, this machine offers a convenient and efficient crafting experience.
Pros:
- Maximum cut size 11.7 in / 12 feet (achieved when using select Cricut Smart Materials)
- Wireless cutting with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Fast cutting speed for time-efficient projects.
- Compatible with Smart Materials for mat-free cutting.
- Works with 100+ materials, including popular materials like vinyl, iron-on & cardstock
- Cuts intricate designs with precision
- Writes, draws, foils, scores, and more
Cons:
- Similar functionality to the Explore Air 2 with incremental improvements.
- Not compatible with Quick Swap tools
Cricut Maker: starting at $299
The Cricut Maker is the powerhouse of the Cricut family, designed for serious crafters and those who demand the utmost precision in their projects. With an adaptive tool system, called Quick Swap Tools. These tools can cut, score, engrave, and even deboss. The rotary blade makes it a top choice for fabric cutting, setting it apart from other models.
Pros:
- Maximum cut size 11.7 in / 12 feet (achieved when using select Cricut Smart Materials)
- Cuts 300+ materials, including delicate fabric, paper, matboard, basswood & leather
- Cuts thicker material than the Explore, like mentioned above. (basswood and more)
- Works with 13 tools to cut, write, score, foil, engrave, deboss & more (sold separately)
- Wide range of compatible tools for various crafting techniques.
- Rotary blade for fabric cutting without a backing material.
- Exceptional precision and cutting quality.
- Versatility in handling diverse materials.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other models.
- Learning curve due to advanced features. (but not hard to learn)
Cricut Maker 3: starting at $349
The Cricut Maker 3 takes the precision and versatility of the original Maker to new heights. With enhanced cutting speed, compatibility with Smart Materials, and the ability to handle more materials than ever before, the Maker 3 is a top choice for crafters who demand the utmost in creative freedom and precision. Its also compatible with Quick Swap Tools.
Pros:
- Maximum cut size 11.7 in / 12 feet (achieved when using select Cricut Smart Materials)
- Works with 300+ materials, including popular materials like vinyl, iron-on & cardstock — plus leather, matboard & more
- Cuts intricate designs with precision
- Writes, draws, foils, engraves, embosses, and more
- Increased cutting speed for efficient project completion.
- Compatibility with a wide range of tools for various crafting techniques.
- Capable of handling more materials, including Smart Materials.
- Enhanced technology for efficient and precise cutting.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other models.
- Learning curve due to advanced features. (but not hard to learn)
Cricut Joy: starting at $99
The Cricut Joy is a compact cutting machine designed for those who need a portable crafting solution. It’s perfect for quick, on-the-go projects and offers the convenience of mat-free cutting with Smart Materials. While it’s not as versatile as larger models, its simplicity and size make it a great choice for crafters with limited space.
Pros:
- Compatible with Smart Materials™ to cut long shapes up to 4 ft (1.2 m), or repeated cuts up to 20 ft (6.1 m) in one go
- Works with Cricut Joy™ Pens & Cricut Joy Infusible Ink™ Markers to draw and write in a variety of styles
- Ultra-compact and portable design.
- Mat-free cutting with Cricut Smart Materials.
- Quick setup and easy to use.
- Affordable for budget-conscious crafters.
Cons:
- Cannot print then cut
- 1 tool clamp
- Not compatible with Quick Swap tools
- Limited to smaller projects.
- Less versatility compared to larger models.
Cricut Joy Xtra: starting at $199
The Cricut Joy Xtra takes the simplicity of the Joy to the next level with additional features and capabilities. It retains the compact design for on-the-go crafting but introduces enhanced functionalities for those who want more from a portable cutting machine.
Pros:
- Maximum cut size 8.5 in / 4 feet (achieved when using select Cricut Smart Materials)
- Writes, draws, foils, and more
- Works with popular material sizes, including US Letter and A4
- Compact and portable, ideal for on-the-go crafting.
- Mat-free cutting with Cricut Smart Materials.
- Extra features for added versatility.
- Budget-friendly option with advanced capabilities.
Cons:
- 1 tool clamp
- Not compatible with Quick Swap tools
- Limited to smaller projects.
- May have fewer features compared to larger, more advanced models.
Cricut Venture: starting at $999
The Cricut Venture is a cutting-edge addition to the Cricut lineup, aimed at those who want a balance between versatility and portability. It combines the power of the Explore series with the compact design of the Joy, making it a great choice for crafters who need a flexible and convenient solution.
Pros:
- Precision-cut 100+ materials with this 25 in professional cutting machine
- Cuts & writes up to 25.4 in/sec
- Cuts single images up to 12 ft (3.6 m) and repeated images up to 75 ft (22.8 m)
- Compatible with 7 tools to write, foil, score & more (sold separately)
- Space-saving 45° design, plus built-in mat & roll supports
- Adjustable for 13 in and 25 in (33 cm and 63.5 cm) width Smart Materials™
- Compatible with your home inkjet printer to print then cut full-color designs up to 24 in x 28 in (61 cm x 71 cm)
- Compatible with Docking Stand for Cricut Venture (sold separately)
- Cut or write with your favorite materials with a Performance Machine Mat (sold separately)
- Versatile, with the ability to cut a wide range of materials.
- Compatible with Smart Materials for mat-free cutting.
- Enhanced technology for efficient and precise cutting.
Cons:
- Not compatible with Quick Swap tools
- Higher price point compared to entry-level models.
- Takes up a lot of space.
You can purchase the machine and the stand separate or as a set.
My Opinion:
I have experience using most of these machines, so this is my honest opinion. I own all Cricut machines except the Joy Xtra. In order to choose the best Cricut machine for you, you have to consider your circumstances.
- Get the Explore Air 2 If you’re on a tight budget right now. Also if you’re not interested in the quick swap tools, which include the different blades and tips. You’ll be able to work with a good amount of materials as well, like card stock, vinyl, htv, sticker paper, bonded fabric, felt, infusible ink.
- Get the Explore 3 if you don’t mind spending a little extra, you want a machine that cuts faster, you’re not interested in the quick swap tools. You can cut the same materials as the explore air 2.
- Get the Maker again if you done mind spending a little more. If you want to cut on more materials and be able to utilize more features, such as engraving on thin metals, using blades that can cut bonded fabric and light bass wood, using the scoring wheel. (for a deeper score line) You’ll be able to use all the materials as the Explore machines plus more such as softwood, chipboard.
- Get the Maker 3 if you like a the features of the Maker but cutting faster and of course spending a little more.
- Get the Cricut Joy if you have limited space or prefer to craft on the go. It’s a small machine so you won’t be able to do large project. If find this machine more for card making and small cuts. More for small vinyl cuts than paper. Also this is the only cutting machine that cannot print then cut.
- Get the Cricut Joy Xtra for the same reasons as the Joy except it can cut a little bigger in size than the original Joy. If find this machine is more for sticker making than anything.
- Get the Venture if you have a good amount of space, a larger budget. Have a designated area, if not then the stand is needed. This machine is definitely for crafters who work on larger projects, or make lots of orders.
Extra Info:
Cricut has a comparison page where you can see side by side all the features, projects that can be made and materials used for each machine.
They also have a Quick Start Guide page where you can get all the help you need for each of their machines.
If you’re interested in seeing a variety of Projects made using the Cricut machines, check out my Youtube Channel.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right Cricut cutting machine depends on your specific crafting needs, budget, and preferences. The Explore Air 2, Maker, Joy, Explore 3, Joy, Venture, Joy Xtra, and Maker 3 cater to different audiences, providing a range of features and capabilities. Whether you prioritize versatility, precision, portability, or ease of use, there’s a Cricut machine that’s perfect for your creative journey. Take the time to evaluate your requirements and explore the features of each model to find the ideal crafting companion that will bring your artistic visions to life.
