Best Cricut Machines: Top 10 Cutting Machines for Crafting Creativity (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

When searching for the best Cricut machines, you’ll want to factor in your specific crafting requirements, financial situation, and proficiency.

The Cricut Maker 3 is a prime choice for its professional-grade cutting capabilities and extensive material compatibility.

The Cricut Explore 3 strikes a balance between advanced features and affordability.

For a portable option, the Cricut Joy excels at cutting, writing, and drawing on a variety of materials.

Supplementing these machines are Cricut’s heat presses, like the EasyPress 3, which provide versatile and precise heat transfer capabilities.

To further explore the full scope of Cricut’s cutting-edge offerings and find the ideal fit for your creative pursuits, read on.

Top 10 Cricut Machines

Are you seeking to ignite your crafting inspiration? Consider the top 10 Cricut machines that provide unrivaled adaptability and accuracy for all your DIY endeavors. From the formidable Cricut Maker 3 to the transportable Cricut Joy, this compilation includes the ideal cutting tool to align with your specific preferences and financial constraints.

1. Cricut Maker 3 Cutting Machine

View On Amazon

Activate your creative superpowers with the Cricut Maker 3 – the ultimate smart cutting machine that’s faster, more powerful, and more versatile than ever before.

This pro-level workhorse packs a serious punch, delivering up to 2X faster cutting speeds and 10X the cutting force of the Explore Air 2. Whether you’re tackling delicate paper projects or diving into thick, artisanal materials like leather and basswood, the Maker 3 has got your back.

And with its suite of 13 interchangeable tools, the creative possibilities are truly endless. Just load up those Cricut Smart Materials and let the machine work its magic – no cutting mats required.

Activate your full creative potential and make your wildest crafting dreams a reality with the unstoppable Cricut Maker 3.

Best For: Aspiring and experienced crafters seeking exceptional performance and versatility.

2. Cricut Explore 3 Cutting Machine

View On Amazon

The Cricut Explore 3 is a cutting machine that offers a wide range of capabilities for crafters. It’s designed to cut over 100 materials, including vinyl, iron-on, card stock, and specialty materials. The machine is compatible with six tools for cutting, scoring, and more, and it works with Smart Materials for easy, matless cuts up to 3.6m (12ft) in length. The Explore 3 is also capable of cutting two times faster than the previous Explore or Maker models, respectively.

One of the key features of the Cricut Explore 3 is its ability to cut materials without the need for a sticky cutting mat, which simplifies the process of cutting and eliminates the need for additional supplies. The machine is also Bluetooth-enabled, allowing for wireless operation and compatibility with various devices.

The Cricut Explore 3 is a versatile machine that’s ideal for personalized home decorations, stickers, and hot-melt logos. It’s a mid-range option in Cricut’s line of cutting machines, offering a balance of functionality and affordability.

Best For: Crafters and DIY enthusiasts looking for a versatile and affordable cutting machine.

3. Cricut Joy Portable Cutting Writing Machine

View On Amazon
The Cricut Joy is a compact and portable cutting machine designed for DIY enthusiasts looking to personalize and customize everyday items. It offers a range of features that make it an ideal companion for crafters who want to create labels, decals, cards, and other small projects. Here’s a closer look at the Cricut Joy:

1. Size and Portability: The Cricut Joy is compact and portable, measuring about 5.5 x 8.4 x 4.25 inches (13.9 x 21.4 x 10.8 cm) . This makes it easy to store and carry around, perfect for crafters who need a machine that can travel with them.
2. Materials: The Cricut Joy can work with over 50 materials, including vinyl, HTV (heat transfer vinyl), and cardstock. It also supports Smart Materials, which can be used without a cutting mat, making the process even more convenient.
3. Writing and Drawing: In addition to cutting, the Cricut Joy can write and draw with a fine-point pen, allowing users to create personalized labels, cards, and more.
4. Compatibility: The Cricut Joy is compatible with the Cricut Design Space app, which can be accessed via Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android devices. This allows users to upload and cut custom designs or choose from pre-designed templates.
5. Bluetooth Technology: The Cricut Joy uses Bluetooth wireless technology, making it easy to connect to your device and start creating.
6. Accessories: The Cricut Joy comes with a cutting mat, but it also supports Smart Materials, which don’t require a mat. Additionally, the machine can be used with Cricut Joy Card Mat for card making projects.
7. Limitations: The Cricut Joy has some limitations compared to larger Cricut machines like the Explore Air 2 or Maker. It isn’t suitable for larger projects or materials that require more cutting power.

Best For: Crafters who want a compact, portable cutting machine for small projects.

4. Cricut EasyPress 3 Heat Press

The Cricut EasyPress 3 is a versatile heat press that offers a range of features for crafters. It’s designed to connect to the Cricut Heat app via Bluetooth, allowing users to send precise time and temperature settings and follow step-by-step guidance for any project. The ceramic-coated heat plate reaches temperatures up to 400°F (205°C) of dry, edge-to-edge heat, ensuring even heating for various materials like iron-on, Infusible Ink, and sublimation products.

One of the key benefits of the EasyPress 3 is its compatibility with the Cricut Heat app. This app provides users with a convenient way to set time and temperature settings directly on the heat press, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. The app also adjusts the timer for each project, ensuring accurate pressing times.

The EasyPress 3 is available in two sizes: 9 in x 9 in and 12 in x 10 in, making it suitable for a variety of projects, including T-shirts, tote bags, pillows, aprons, and more. It’s also portable, easy to store, and comes with an insulated safety base and auto-off feature for added safety.

While the EasyPress 3 offers many advantages, it’s important to contemplate whether it’s worth upgrading from the EasyPress 2. The main difference between the two models is the Bluetooth technology that allows the EasyPress 3 to connect to the Cricut Heat app. If you’re already content with the EasyPress 2 and don’t see the need for the app’s features, it may be more cost-effective to continue utilizing your existing heat press.

Best For: Crafters looking for a versatile and user-friendly heat press to create personalized projects.

5. Cricut EasyPress Mini Raspberry UK Edition

View On Amazon

The Cricut EasyPress Mini Raspberry UK Edition is a compact and portable heat press ideal for crafting on the go. With its raspberry color, it adds a touch of charm to your crafting setup. This heat press is designed for small or challenging projects, making it ideal for hats, shoes, and even small animals. It’s lightweight and easy to store, making it a great addition to your crafting arsenal.

The EasyPress Mini Raspberry UK Edition is easy to use, with simple heat settings and an auto-shutoff feature for safety. It’s compatible with HTV, iron-on, and Infusible Ink, allowing you to create a wide range of projects. Its ceramic-coated heat plate ensures consistent heating for reliable results.

This heat press is a must-have for crafters who want to take their projects to the next level. Its compact size makes it perfect for small spaces, and its portability means you can take your crafting on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, the Cricut EasyPress Mini Raspberry UK Edition is a valuable tool for your crafting journey.

Best For: Crafters who want to create small or challenging projects with HTV, iron-on, or Infusible Ink.

6. Cricut EasyPress 2 9×9 Inch Raspberry

View On Amazon

The Cricut EasyPress 2 9×9 Inch Raspberry is a versatile heat press designed for a wide range of heat transfer projects. It’s suitable for various materials, including T-shirts, tote bags, pillows, aprons, and more.

The 9×9-inch size is ideal for basic projects and offers professional heat-transfer results without the guesswork.

The advanced heating plate design features a ceramic-coated surface, ensuring even heating and edge-to-edge transfer quality.

This heat press is lightweight, portable, and easy to store, making it a convenient choice for crafters and hobbyists.

The Cricut EasyPress 2 is compatible with most major brands of heat-transfer vinyl and all Infusible Ink products, making it a perfect complement to Cricut cutting machines.

Best For: Crafters and hobbyists looking for a versatile and user-friendly heat press.

7. Cricut EasyPress 3 Smart Heat Press

View On Amazon
The Cricut EasyPress 3 is a versatile heat press that combines the speed of a heat press, the convenience of an iron, and the simplicity of the Cricut Heat app. It’s designed to deliver uniform, edge-to-edge heat for consistent results, making it suitable for heat transfer projects on various materials, including T-shirts, tote bags, and Infusible Ink projects.

The EasyPress 3 is available in a 12-inch by 10-inch size, which is ideal for various projects, including sweatshirts, banners, and blankets. It’s lightweight, portable, and easy to store, making it a great addition to any crafter’s toolkit.

Best For: Crafters and hobbyists looking for a versatile and easy-to-use heat press for various projects.

8. Cricut Autopress Professional Heat Press

View On Amazon

The Cricut Autopress Professional Heat Press is a top-of-the-line heat press designed for small business owners and those who require a heat press for professional-grade projects. It features a large heat plate that allows for the pressing of multiple small objects at once, increasing production time. The AutoPress is also known for its auto-open feature, which allows users to press one project while another is pressing, without the need to stop and open the machine. This feature is particularly beneficial for small business owners who need to produce items quickly and efficiently.

The Autopress is also praised for its safety-conscious design, with features that prevent the lid from opening while in use, ensuring that the heat is evenly applied to the project. This feature is especially important when working with materials like fabric or wood, which can be subjected to temperatures up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The machine also has a control pod with four presets, which helps to reduce guesswork and maximize workflow.

In terms of compatibility, the Cricut Autopress is designed to work with a variety of materials, including iron-on (HTV), Infusible Ink, and sublimation projects. It’s also a great complement to all Cricut cutting machines, as it allows for the transfer of designs onto various materials.

While the Autopress is a powerful and versatile heat press, it’s also quite expensive and bulky, which may not be suitable for hobbyists or those with limited space. However, for small business owners or those who require a professional-grade heat press, the Cricut Autopress Professional Heat Press is a valuable investment.

Best For: Small business owners and those who require a heat press for professional-grade projects.

9. Cricut Blank Ceramic Coated Mugs

View On Amazon

Cricut Blank Ceramic Coated Mugs are a favored option for artisans and DIY enthusiasts seeking to make custom mugs using the Cricut Mug Press and Infusible Ink products. These mugs are meticulously designed to fit into the Cricut Mug Press and are poly-coated to collaborate seamlessly with Cricut Infusible Ink transfer sheets. They’re available in two capacities, 12 oz and 15 oz, and boast a sleek ceramic finish and vertical walls, making them ideal for achieving impeccable transfers consistently.

To utilize these mugs, you’ll require a Cricut machine to design your mug, a Cricut Mug Press, and Cricut Infusible Ink transfer sheets. The transfer sheets consist of a dry ink substance that, upon exposure to high heat, transfers the ink into the base material, generating vivid, seamless designs that are dishwasher and microwave compatible.

It is paramount to adhere meticulously to the manufacturer’s guidelines when operating the Cricut Mug Press, as it necessitates specific materials and settings to achieve optimal outcomes. Some practical tips include using a 12 x 12 EasyPress pressing pad beneath the mug press, ensuring that your liners are firmly pressed against the mug, and allowing your mug to cool before removing the liner.

Cricut Blank Ceramic Coated Mugs are accessible in various packs, such as a 6-pack or a 36-pack, and can be procured at retailers like Best Buy, Walmart, and Amazon.

Best For: Crafters and DIY enthusiasts seeking to create custom mugs using the Cricut Mug Press and Infusible Ink products.

10. Cricut Explore Air 2 Cutting Machine

View On Amazon
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a versatile cutting machine that offers a range of features for crafters. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Materials: The Explore Air 2 can cut over 100 materials, including paper, vinyl, and cardstock. It features a Smart Set dial that automatically adjusts settings for different materials, and you can customize the settings in Design Space for a library of materials.
2. Wireless Cutting: This machine is equipped with wireless Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to cut from your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
3. Speed: The Explore Air 2 offers a Fast Mode that allows you to cut and write up to 2 times faster, depending on machine settings and the images you want to cut.
4. Storage: The machine comes with built-in storage compartments for tools and blades, including a magnetic strip for easy blade replacement.
5. Compatibility: The Explore Air 2 is compatible with 6 tools for cutting, writing, foiling, and more. You can also use the same blades, cutting mats, pens, and scoring stylus as other Cricut machines.
6. Design Space: The machine works with the Design Space app, which offers thousands of designs and ideas to kick-start any project.
7. Cutting Capacity: The Explore Air 2 has a cutting width of 21.13 inches and a cutting length of 20 feet.
8. Price: The Explore Air 2 is priced between $199.99 and $249.99.

Best For: Crafters of all skill levels who want a versatile and easy-to-use cutting machine.

What is a Cricut Machine?

Welcome to the universe of Cricut machines! These cutting devices are intended to assist you in releasing your imagination and materializing your crafting concepts. Cricut machines are flexible and can cut a variety of substances, from paper and vinyl to fabric and even leather, making them ideal for a diverse range of activities, such as scrapbooking, card making, and personalized presents.

Cricut machines are available in a variety of styles, each with its own set of features and capabilities. The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a popular option for the majority of users, allowing them to cut over 100 materials with a fine-point blade. Its cutting capacity is restricted, and vinyl requires the use of a cutting mat. The Cricut Explore 3, on the other hand, is compatible with Cricut Smart Materials and has a larger cutting capacity, making it appropriate for a wider range of materials and projects.

For those seeking greater power and adaptability, the Cricut Maker is a superb choice. It’s more powerful than the Explore machines, with a 10x cutting capacity, and has an Adaptive Tool System that regulates blade direction and pressure. The Cricut Maker can cut over 300 materials, including delicate paper, fabric, and thicker materials like leather and wood.

If you’re seeking a portable and cost-effective choice, the Cricut Joy is the smallest and most inexpensive Cricut machine. It can cut common materials without the use of a cutting mat and is ideal for small projects such as labels, stickers, and cards.

Consider your project types, materials, and financial constraints while selecting the best Cricut machine. The Cricut Joy is ideal for small, straightforward projects and beginners, whereas the Cricut Explore Air 2 and Explore 3 are suitable for a broader range of materials and the majority of crafters. The Cricut Maker is ideal for experienced crafters who work with thicker materials such as leather and wood, as well as sewing and quilting.

In the following subtopic, we’ll examine how to select the appropriate Cricut machine based on your tastes and requirements. Keep an eye out!

Choosing the Right Cricut Machine

Choosing the right Cricut machine for your crafting needs requires careful consideration. Think about the project types you want to tackle, the materials you’ll be working with, and your budget – these factors will help you determine which Cricut model is the best fit.

Project Types

Selecting the optimal Cricut machine resembles unlocking a clandestine crafting echelon, where your creations, ranging from decals to labels to greeting cards, transcend from conception to tangible reality. It encompasses more than mere cutting abilities; it necessitates a harmonious interplay of material compatibility and financial constraints.

Whether you envision a vinyl renaissance through wall decals or disseminate happiness with handcrafted stickers, your Cricut serves as your enchanted instrument.

Materials

When venturing into the realm of Cricut crafting, the vast array of materials can be daunting. From the adhesive vinyl’s clingy embrace to the robust permanence of permanent vinyl, each material serves a crucial purpose.

Tool compatibility and design software integration serve as your guiding light, navigating you through the creative tempest.

Establish an organized workspace, ignite your imaginative spark, and embark on your crafting odyssey.

Budget

Regarding budget, there are several affordable options for Cricut machines. For individuals seeking to economize yet experience the advantages of a Cricut, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is a wise selection. It strikes a balance between expense and worth, priced within the range of $199.99-$249.99.

Moreover, a budget-friendly heat press such as the Cricut EasyPress 2 9×9 Inch Raspberry could be a cost-effective option for applying heat.

Remember to allocate funds for necessities like cutting mats, a craft knife, and transfer tape for vinyl decals. Prudent spending strategies involve monitoring sales on cutting mats and considering blades from alternative brands.

Tools

Choosing the appropriate Cricut machine entails evaluating the tools it provides. Cricut Maker 3, for example, possesses a robust motor and can cut, engrave, and score. It utilizes Cricut Smart Materials for extended, mat-free cutting.

Conversely, the Explore 3 is somewhat less powerful but is compatible with Cricut Smart Materials.

Both machines include a sharp-point blade, deep-point blade, fabric-adhered blade, scoring stylus, and fine-point pen.

For cutting mats, the Nicapa brand is recommended, and self-healing cutting mats are available in various dimensions.

Additionally, a paper cutter, detailing cuts, rotary blade, knife blade, cutting blades, and a pen or marker adapter are all essential tools to contemplate when selecting a Cricut machine.

Cutting Challenge

The Cricut cutting challenge is all about finding the right machine for your needs. Consider the cutting accuracy, ease of use, and versatility of each machine.

Software integration is also important, as it can impact your project ideas.

For beginners, the Cricut Joy is a great choice, while the Cricut Maker offers more power and versatility.

The Cricut Explore machines are also popular, offering a balance between cost and capabilities.

Compare these options to Silhouette machines and heat pressing capabilities to find the best fit for your crafting creativity.

Comparison With Cricut Maker 3

When comparing the Cricut Maker 3 to the Cricut Explore 3, the Maker 3 offers more cutting power and versatility. With its Adaptive Tool System, it can cut over 300 materials, including fabric, leather, and wood.

The Explore 3, on the other hand, is slightly less powerful and has a smaller cutting capacity. However, it still handles a wide range of materials and is compatible with Cricut Smart Materials.

The Maker 3 also comes with additional features like Cricut Access subscription and design apps, while the Explore 3 has a more basic design interface.

The Cricut EasyPress 3 is a heat press that connects to the app and adjusts heat according to materials, offering consistent heat for your projects.

Comparison With Explore and Maker

When choosing between the Cricut Explore and Maker, it’s like deciding whether to ride a bike or drive a sports car. The Explore offers a solid ride with a more attractive price tag.

The Maker speeds ahead with its ability to handle over 300 materials, thanks to its robust tool compatibility, including the Cricut EasyPress Mini and Cricut Mug Press. The Maker’s project capabilities and user experience put it in the fast lane, offering you the freedom to master any craft venture.

Comparison With Explore and Joy

When comparing the Cricut Explore Air 2 and Cricut Joy, there are several key differences to evaluate. Here’s a list of four points to help you make your choice:

1. Project Size and Length: The Cricut Explore Air 2 can handle materials up to 12 inches wide and two feet long, while the Cricut Joy is limited to 5.5 inches wide but can cut up to 20 feet long.
2. Materials: The Explore Air 2 can cut over 100 different materials, including various cutting tools for different materials and a scoring tool for precision projects. The Joy, on the other hand, can use Smart Materials for matless cutting and the Card Mat for quick cards.
3. Tool Clamps: The Explore Air 2 has two tool clamps, allowing you to use two tools on a project without having to swap them out. The Joy, however, only has one clamp holder, so you’ll need to change tools manually when switching between writing and cutting.
4. Speed and Automation: With the Explore Air 2, you can set the depth of your cut, and the machine will write and cut without asking you to change the tool. The Joy, on the other hand, will stop and ask you to change from the pen to the blade or vice versa when switching between writing and cutting.

Take into account your project types, materials, budget, and desired level of automation when choosing between the Cricut Explore Air 2 and Cricut Joy.

Smart Materials Vs Regular Adhesive Vinyl

Regarding the selection of suitable vinyl for Cricut initiatives, it’s crucial to assess the advantages and disadvantages of Cricut Smart Materials and conventional adhesive vinyl. While Cricut Smart Materials facilitate cutting without a mat, conventional adhesive vinyl offers a wider selection of materials and enhanced stability for accurate cutting.

Cricut Smart Materials

Explore the realm of Cricut Smart Materials, crafted for cordless cutting, providing design harmony and ethereal storage. Contrast their capabilities with parchment, aluminum, crystal, and tenderwood, and witness their superiority to ordinary adhesive vinyl.

Regular Adhesive Vinyl

Regular adhesive vinyl is a versatile material for creating decals and designs. It comes in various types, including removable and permanent vinyl, with glossy and matte finishes. Transfer tape application makes the process easier and more precise. Vinyl decals can be durable and long-lasting, suitable for outdoor signage and car decals.

For those who prefer smart material alternatives, off-brand vinyl options are available, often at a lower cost. Deep-cut blades and card stock can be used for intricate designs. A tape runner and Sakura Gelly Roll pens can enhance the creative process.

Comparison

When choosing between Smart Materials and regular adhesive vinyl for your Cricut Maker or Explore, it’s like deciding between a Swiss Army knife and a single-blade pocket knife. Both have their place, but one offers more versatility.

1. Smart Materials cut directly, skipping the mat board dance, perfect for long projects or quick cuts on the go.
2. Regular Adhesive Vinyl requires a paper trimmer and patience, offering a budget-friendly option with a wider variety of finishes.
3. Advanced Tools in the Cricut Maker expand your crafting universe, from sewing cases to customizing drinkware, making it the Swiss Army knife of crafting.

Adhesive Vinyl for Decals

When crafting DIY decals with your Cricut machine, you’ll have the choice between removable and permanent vinyl. Removable vinyl is ideal for temporary projects like wall decals, while permanent vinyl is perfect for outdoor signage and car decals that need to withstand harsh conditions.

Removable Vinyl

Removable vinyl, also known as removable adhesive vinyl, is a type of sticker-like material used on hard surfaces. It’s perfect for beginners and temporary projects, such as wall decals and party decorations.

Unlike permanent vinyl, removable vinyl can be easily removed without leaving residue. It’s also suitable for crafting, scrapbooking, and personalized gifts.

When working with removable vinyl, use a light pad and the best tape to use with Cricut foil, a foil quill set, or glue pens to facilitate precise application.

Permanent Vinyl

Permanent vinyl, also known as adhesive vinyl for decals, offers unparalleled durability and adhesive strength. It’s perfect for outdoor signage, car decals, and products exposed to harsh conditions. Here are three types of permanent vinyl that craft enthusiasts rave about:

1. Glossy Permanent Vinyl: Standard permanent/outdoor vinyl.
2. Matte Removable Vinyl: Standard removable vinyl with a matte finish.
3. Heat Activated Color-Changing Vinyl: Changes colors with heat.

For a side-by-side cutting challenge, consider the Cricut Maker 3 and Explore Air 2. Both machines can handle permanent vinyl, but the Maker 3 offers more versatility. Use Cricut transfer tape for a smoother application process, and don’t forget to use promo codes for discounts on your vinyl purchases.

Types of Adhesive Vinyl

Regarding adhesive vinyl, two primary varieties exist: removable and permanent. Removable vinyl suits novices and ephemeral endeavors such as wall adornments or celebratory decorations. It’s effortless to handle and removable without leaving remnants.

Conversely, permanent vinyl boasts greater durability and longevity, rendering it optimal for outdoor signage, vehicular decals, and products enduring harsh environments. Both options possess unique merits, catering to diverse applications.

To preserve the caliber of your vinyl, appropriate storage is crucial, and for optimal outcomes, it should be cleansed prior to use.

Transfer Tape

Transfer tape is a game-changer for applying adhesive vinyl decals. It’s less sticky than the vinyl itself, making application easier and more precise. For storage, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Brands like Oracal, 3M, and Con-Tact offer transfer tape in various widths and lengths. To remove transfer tape, use a scraper or credit card, and peel slowly to avoid damaging the vinyl.

Surfaces for DIY Cricut Decals

After mastering transfer tape techniques, you’re ready to embark on the journey of vinyl applications. Whether you’re adorning your dorm with resilient decals or customizing drinking vessels, the appropriate vinyl types and Cricut accessories can determine the success or failure of your project.

Bear in mind, the surface you select serves as the canvas for your vinyl artistry—so choose judiciously for enduring impressions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)