Your Ultimate Guide To The Best Cricut Machines On The Market

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Table of Contents

Anyone who is into arts and crafts knows how important cutting is.

Cutting by hand is time-consuming, and more importantly, there’s a perfect chance that you may get it wrong. Cricut is an optimal substitute.

Cricut machines are important for your art projects, whether you’re a scrapbooker or an interior designer, 

There are many types of Cricut machines on the market. If you are looking to buy one, you have come to the right place. Here we will tell you all there is to know about a Cricut machine.

Specifically, we list and review the  10 best Cricut machines available now. 

What exactly is a "Cricut" machine?

First things first. 

Cricut is a brand that manufactures high-performance electronic cutting machines and other tools for home crafts.

Depending upon the type of Cricut Machine you have, you can work on construction paper, leather, and vinyl, among other materials.  With some Cricut machines, you can create folding lines that help make 3D projects such as decorative boxes, greeting cards, etc. The possibilities are endless.

Pros:

Cons:

The Cricut Explore Air 2 Cutting Machine is the best and most popular Cricut machine on the market today. For its excellent features and capabilities, it was inevitable that we put this Cricut machine on the top of our list. The Cricut Explore Air 2 consists of a German carbide premium blade.

This makes it one of the best cutting machines out there. With this machine, you can create customized vinyl stickers, greeting cards, home decor, and even t-shirts. 

The Cricut Explore Air 2 comes equipped with a wide variety of designs and cuts. You can even upload customized designs. With a subscription, you can also get access to over 100,000 templates for projects, images, fonts, and much more.

The Cricut Explore Air 2 can perform two tasks simultaneously thanks to its double toolbar feature. This means you can perform writing and cutting or scoring and cutting at the same time. This allows for quicker processes, saving your time and energy.

When you purchase this machine, you are granted free access to Cricut’s Design application known as the “Design Space.”

The “Design Space” application allows you to create and design your creative visions through your tablet, PC and even smartphone, iOS and Android.

Materials Suitability:

The Cricut Explore Air 2  machine offers the ultimate accuracy and precision. You can work with hundreds of materials without worrying about the finishing.

The Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut all common materials and even premium materials like cardstock, paper, vinyl, faux leather, board, and iron-on.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • A Premium fine point blade.
  • Premium Cricut Housing for fast swapping between scoring, debossing, etc.
  • A light grip cutting mat suitable for HTV and vinyl projects (12 x 12 inches)
  • A Cricut black fine point pen.
  • Features a tool holder as well.

Pros:

Cons:

The Cricut 29-0001 is ideal for almost all professionals who require cutting tools for their job. And if you want to take your craft to the next level, this is one of the best Cricut machines for you. The Cricut 29-0001 is an electronic cutting machine that can cut from 1 inch of material up to 5-1/2  inches in one go. This is ideal for projects like greeting cards and scrapbooks.

This is a portable cutting machine with an electrical socket. You can use this machine to cut letters, phrases, and even shapes.

The cartridge-based system also allows the cutting machine to operate optimally without a computer.

Materials Suitability:

The Cricut 29-0001 can cut paper, cardstock, vinyl, and vellum, among other common and premium materials.  Expect an optimal finish with almost all kinds of materials. This is the best option if you are looking to work with a wider range of materials on a budget.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Portable machine. 
  • Cartridge-based system.
  • Does not need a computer to operate.

Pros:

Cons:

Cricut Explore Air is rated one of the best Cricut cutting machines for its optimal performance and functionality. It is also one of the most trusted machines for cutting processes.

The Cricut Explore Air is incredibly easy to use. The machine contains helpful features like storage compartments. The Cricut Explore Air also allows Bluetooth connectivity and Cricut design application “Design Space” compatibility.

The Cricut Explore Air is also equipped with a dual carriage that allows the user to cut and write or cut and score simultaneously. The machine also consists of a Smart Set dial that allows easy setup for different materials.

These features provide smoother accessibility and operations, even for beginners. 

The Circut Explore Air is also cheaper than the Cricut Explore Air 2.

Materials Suitability:

The Cricut Explore Air can cut over 60 materials with the Cut Smart Precision cutting blade. These include paper, cardstock, cloth, and leather.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Smart precision cutting blade.
  • Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Smart Set Dial.
  • Cricut “Design Space” Application compatibility.
  • Integrated storage compartments.
  • Dual carriage for simultaneous operations.

Pros:

Cons:

The Easy Press Mini is one of the most impressive and useful tools that Cricut has introduced. You will love this machine if you are a craft enthusiast and love to make stickers for your curtains, table cloths, mats, bags, pillows, shoes, hats, and blankets.

The Cricut Easy Press Mini is a mini version of the Cricut EasyPress heat tool. It is portable and can be used for different tasks. The Cricut Easy Press Mini is a compact and stylish heating tool that can provide professional-level results in less than 60 seconds.

The compact size of the Cricut Easy Press Mini makes it very easy to navigate. It is also lightweight and adjustable. This advanced heat press machine has a timer and a shut-off feature for added safety.

These features alone make it one of the best and the safest heat press tools available today. Even if you are a beginner, you will fall in love with this machine for its amazing, easy-to-use features.

Materials Suitability:

This compact heat press machine is fun to use, especially if you love designing t-shirts. The Cricut Easy Press Mini consists of a ceramic coated heat plate that provides heat evenly to the entire material.

You can even imprint your designs on smaller and more fragile materials. These include pockets, cuffs, mugs, stuffed toys, towels, and coasters.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Round handle.
  • Three heats settings.
  • Heat plate that is ceramic coated.
  • Auto Shutdown feature.
  • Safety base.
  • Compatible with infusible ink.

Pros:

Cons:

The Cricut Maker is a powerful machine that offers versatility. It is a wireless Cricut machine that is compact and easy to carry.

It is ideal for a host of materials. These include iron-on, paper crafts, leather crafts, vinyl decals, and even balsa wood.

The Cricut Maker Machine is suited for sewing, quilting, and other projects that include premium materials. The machine comes equipped with thousands of designs and patterns. All you have to do is combine them to create a finish of your choice.

The Cricut Maker Machine also has a double tool holder. This amazing feature allows the machine to perform two tasks at once. The cutting speed of this Cricut machine is also excellent. This, included with the rotary blade, provides an amazing cutting experience.

The rotary blade can cut through the toughest materials with ease. However, if that is not enough, the Cricut Machine also comes with a sharper knife blade. This blade can cut materials like balsa wood that are thick as 2.4mm.

You can also perform sewing tasks with a powerful scoring tool, pens, and top-quality blades.

Materials Suitability:

The Cricut Maker Machine is easy to use. It is also compatible with “Design Space,” which makes the designing process fun and simple. Even beginners can operate this machine.

The Cricut Maker Machine can cut any material up to a thickness of 2.4mm. It can also cut wood and stencils with two types of cutting blades.

The two blades, the rotary blade and the sharper knife blade provide an optimal and accurate cut with phenomenal finishing. The knife blade has to be ordered separately, though.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • The double tool holder.
  • Rotary Blade.
  • Sharper knife blade.
  • Scoring tools.
  • Pens.
  • Compatible with Design Space
  • Top-quality engine.
  • Docking slot.

Pros:

Cons:

Cricut is also one of the best manufacturers of iron-on machines. The Cricut Easy Press 2 is no different in terms of quality and practicality. 

The Cricut Easy Press 2 is a safer option than other heat press machines available on the market. It contains an automatic shut-off feature in case you forgot to turn it off. The insulated safety base also protects your surface.

The advanced heat plate design and the ceramic surface can also provide balanced heat. This creates beautiful results in just 60-seconds.

The Cricut Easy Press 2 is also easy to use, even for beginners. The smart dial-up with a digital display on the machine’s face provides the ability to control different settings. You can also control the temperature up to 400F.

Materials Suitability:

While talking about the Easy Press Mini, we mentioned how it was the best option for smaller projects. Well, the Easy Press 2 is your perfect choice for larger projects. Its size is ideal for blankets, banners, sweatshirts, and even t-shirts.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Ideal size for larger projects (22 x 22 cm)
  • Insulated safety base.
  • Advanced heat plate design.
  • Ceramic coated surface.
  • Temperature control.
  • Dial-up with display for easier controls.

Pros:

Cons:

If you are a passionate crafter, the Cricut Bright Pad is a machine made for you. It will help you weed like nothing else.

The Circut Bright Pad illuminates the workspace to ease you with weeding. The light keeps your vision clear. It is also good for crafters who have a problem with eye strains.

The Cricut Bright Pad is also the best Cricut machine for quilting and tracing. The versatility of this machine can help you complete a host of different projects. Overall, the Cricut Bright Pad is lightweight and thin in its dimensions, making it easy to transport.

The Cricut Bright Pad also has a non-slip base. This means that you can place this on any surface without the risk of slip and fall.

The machine also includes a USB port and a USB cord. You can also plug in this beauty on any electronic outlet. A warranty is also provided at the time of purchase.

Materials Suitability:

This is the best Cricut machine for weeding and tracing. Its optimal brightness features do not strain your eyes. The clarity is also enhanced with adjustable LED lights in the Cricut Bright Pad.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Adjustable LED lights
  • USB port and 6 feet power cord
  • Wall power adapter
  • Non-slip base.
  • Comes with a welcome booklet.

Pros:

Cons:

The Cricut Joy is Cricut’s latest offering. It is smaller in size as compared to the Cricut Maker and the Explore Air 2. A size of 5.5 inches and the weight of 1.75 kgs makes it very easy to carry around.

However, the compact design comes with the same functionality and optimal performance as most other advanced cutting machines out there.

Cricut has loaded this phenomenal machine with unparalleled features. These include matless cutting, wireless cutting, and easy custom card making.

These features make it one of the best cutting machines for passionate crafters. Its precise cuts and optimal finishing, however, are even admired by professionals.

Also, you will need to pay extra for accessories like cutting mats, card mats, and other smart tools.

Materials Suitability:

The Cricut Joy is ideal for smaller projects that include paper, vinyl, and cardstock. The fine point blade can cut more than 50 types of materials, including tissue paper. The machine is very easy to use, making it ideal for beginners who are passionate about papercrafts.

Features of Cricut Explore Air 2:

  • Premium fine point blades.
  • Housing.
  • Fine point pen.
  • Standard grip mat 4.5″ x 6.5″.
  • Welcome Card.
  • Power Adapter.
  • Free trial membership for “Cricut Access.”

Tools you need to get the best out of your Cricut Machine

The tools you use depends on the type of project you are working on. There are two types of toolsets, the basic toolset and the essential. Let’s go through them one by one.

Basic Toolset

  • Tweezers allow for flawless execution and removal of fabric.
  • The Spatula delicately picks up the images from the cutting mat. This prevents tears and curls.
  • The Cricut Scraper removes unwanted scrap from the cutting mats. 
  • Cricut Scissors are hardened stainless steel blades that allow for smoother, more delicate, and accurate cuts.
  • A Blade Cover keeps blades away from dust which contributes to their longevity.
  • The Weeder helps in eliminating smaller cuts from the carrier.

Essential Tool Kit

  • The Scoring Stylus allows you to add folding lines for envelopes, cards, boxes, and other 3D projects.
  • The Scoring Blade allows you to cut and score in one step without changing the mats. 
  • The Trimmer achieves a precise and smooth cutting process for bigger projects.
  • The Replacement Blade cuts harder materials with ease. These include light to medium weight materials like cardstock and vinyl.


Most Cricut machines are equipped with a standard fine point blade that can easily cut off softer materials. A regular grip mat is also available with most machines.

Some of the best Cricut machines also tell you exactly what type of tools you need for a particular material. 

What sets Cricut apart from other cutting machines?

There’s a lot of competition in the cutting machines market. However, no cutting machine can rival the quality and functionsof a Cricut machine. 

The best Cricut machines may be priced a bit higher, but you are certainly getting a lot more features and value for your money in return.

Each cut is precise, accurate, and finished in the best way possible. You will also get access to a library that contains thousands of templates for different types of projects. This makes the overall process of crafting even more enjoyable.

Cricut machines are designed to be as compact as possible. They are considered to be the most streamlined and practical cutting machines on the market today. Add their storage solutions in the mix, and you will have an organized crafting experience.

The software in these Cricut machines overwhelms you with design possibilities and the plethora of cut choices. And you can easily save your designs digitally for future reference.

Creating an account is a one-time process. After that, there are literally thousands of design templates waiting to be tweaked the way you want them to. You can also import designs from the internet and upload your own designs and images if you want to.

If you are looking for a durable, sturdy cutting machine, Cricut will serve you for many years with excellent performance.

What is the best Cricut Machine to buy?

 Every Cricut machine is suited for different requirements. Before you make your final decision,   the following are some key points that we think you should keep in mind while narrowing down your options.

Cutting speed

Most Cricut Machines operate at an optimal speed. However, there are newer and advanced models that provide an even quicker cutting time. The Cricut Maker and the Explore Air 2 are the best in terms of speed.

In fact, they are two times faster as compared to other models. And yet, faster cutting times do not affect the overall finesse of your projects. This is especially suitable for commercial applications. Cutting enthusiasts at home can go for standard models considering they come in a lower price range.

The material you want to work with

Each and every Cricut machine is equipped to handle a variety of materials. However, if you are looking to work with something specific, we recommend that you go through all of these Cricut machine reviews in detail.

The Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 are also the best Cricut machines in terms of material suitability. They can cut through all common materials as well as exclusive ones.

The Cricut Maker cutting machine can cut any material as thick as 2.4mm. This includes balsa wood and stencils. For an ultimate Cricut cutting experience, the Cricut Maker comes equipped with two highly efficient cutting blades. 

To enhance the overall cutting experience, Cricut has provided us with many useful tools as well. The Cricut Bright Pad is there to help you with weeding. The Cricut Easy Press 2 and the Easy Press Mini are the most advanced iron-on machines available on the market today. These, along with many other Cricut tools, are designed to bring out the best in a variety of materials and make the overall experience fun and efficient.

Compatibility with blades and pen

All Cricut cutting machines are equipped to work with a selection of specific, compatible blades. These include premium fine points, deep points, rotary blades, knife blades, bonded fabrics, and scoring wheels.

While buying replacement blades, make sure that you’re buying ones that are compatible with your device. The same approach should be applied while looking for Cricut Pens. Make sure that the Cricut Pen you are buying is compatible with the model you are using. 

Scoring and Writing Needs

The writing feature enables users to create handwritten style cards, among other projects. Most Cricut Machines are equipped with hundreds of built-in lettering fonts that you can tweak according to your requirements. You can also download a variety of fonts, images, designs from the internet and Cricut’s own platform, “Design Space.” Design space is design software that can run on both iOs and Android devices.

Scoring is another feature in these Cricut machines that lets you create folding lines in your projects, especially papercrafts. These are used for creating boxes, envelopes, greeting cards, etc.

The Cricut Maker machine is exclusively equipped with a scoring wheel. The scoring wheel helps the users to make crisp creases on a variety of materials. The Cricut Maker is also the best in terms of using the pressure of the scoring stylus. This allows for better score lines on your papercrafts.

There are very few cutting machines, however, that are equipped with dual carriage systems. The Explore Air is the best Cricut machine if you are looking for dual functionalities. It can cut and write, or cut and score simultaneously.

Depth and Pressure Adjustment

Depth and pressure adjustment are the key factors that enhance the final results of your cut. Each material requires specific settings, especially if you are using thicker materials.

The Explore Air 2 is the best cutting machine in terms of proper pressure adjustment and depth. It 2 is equipped to cut materials as thick as 2.44mm. 

Tool holders

Tool holders come in very handy if they are present on the Cricut machine. Having a tool holder located on the Cricut machine means easy accessibility. You will not have to move or scramble from drawer to drawer to find them every time you require a tool, allowing for quicker processes.

Having a dedicated station for your tools to be placed on keeps them away from getting misplaced. The tool holder also presents a sense of organization to the users. 

Tool holders also help in protecting your tools, enabling a prolonged life. Some Cricut machines have one tool holder, while others have two. If you are a professional and require lots of tools during your projects, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is the optimal choice. The Cricut Explore Air 2 is equipped with two tool holders to guide you optimally while you are working on complex projects.

Wireless Cricut machine

Having a Cricut machine that is wireless increases creativity. A wireless Cricut cutting machine will allow you to connect anywhere and discover thousands of new designs through various devices.

Some Cricut machines can become wireless with some additional accessories. Like the Cricut Explore that can be enabled wirelessly with an adapter. Whereas the Cricut Explore Air 2 with the embedded Bluetooth features is what we call a purely wireless cutting machine.

If you plan to use your Cricut machine through multiple devices around your house, a wireless cutting machine will be a better and more practical option.

Cricut Access

The Cricut Design Space App is free for all Cricut machine users. Through the app, you can try out any one of the many images available in your design. Users will not have to pay to cut their own images as well. The app is also compatible with all file types.

To have a more premium experience, however, Cricut Access design apps offer a monthly and yearly subscription that gives you access to an image library that contains over 100,000 non-licensed pictures, ready-to-make project templates, and 500+ lettering fonts. The membership has other perks as well, which include discounts on Cricut products, designs, and shipping.

Conclusion

We hope these reviews help you find the best Cricut machine. Remember that each machine listed is suitable for different kinds of projects.