When you first discover the wonderful world of Cricut it can seem a bit daunting, not only trying to wrap your head around what a Cricut does but then trying to choose which machine is right for you.
So, let’s go through the three Cricut machines that are currently on the market and find out what they do and who they are best suited for.
CRICUT JOY
Cricut Joy Machine – Compact and Portable DIY Machine For Quick Vinyl, HTV Iron On and Paper Projects | Makes Custom Decals, Custom T Shirt Designs, Personalized Greeting Cards, and Label Maker
The Cricut Joy the most compact machine and the maximum width it can cut is 4.5”. The Cricut Joy cuts more than 100+ materials. It can also draw but you do need Cricut Joy pens to do so.
One of the features of a Cricut Joy is the card making mat which helps you make super quick cards. You put a folded card into a slot and it only cuts the front of the card.
Another feature is that you can cut without using a mat with Smart Vinyl. Because you don’t need a mat you can cut the entire 20ft roll in one go.
The Cricut Joy cannot connect to your printer, so you can’t make things like predesigned stickers.
The Cricut Joy comes with a Cricut Joy Fine Point Blade and is the only blade available for this machine.
The Cricut Joy machine is $179 and is too new to be found on sale just yet.
CRICUT EXPLORE AIR 2
Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is the most popular machine and is a fantastic option for most crafters.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 has a maximum cutting width of 12” and a cutting length of 24″. It cuts paper, cardstock, vinyl, iron-on, and more than 200 materials. It cuts fabric but only if it is bonded. It can also score with a stylus and draw.
The Cricut Explore Air comes with the Fine Point Blade.
The Circuit Explore Air 2 is $299 and can often be found on sale for as low as $179.
CRICUT MAKER
Cricut Maker, Champagne
The Cricut Maker is the top of the line machine because it can cut delicate and thick materials like fabric, leather, balsa wood and acrylics. The Maker can cut more than 300 materials as well as draw. Its maximum cutting width is 12” and a cutting length of 24″.
Another important feature is the Maker is the only machine that can engrave, deboss, perforate, and score with a blade.
The Cricut Maker comes with the Fine Point Blade and the Rotary Blade.
The Cricut Maker is $399 and can be found on sale for $349.
Which Cricut should you buy?
The Cricut Joy is best for small basic projects, for card making lovers or someone that wants a portable option to take with them to craft nights etc.
The Cricut Air Explore 2 is the best option for most crafters. With its price point and the functionality, it will meet the needs of most crafters.
The Cricut Maker is perfect for crafters that want to cut delicate or thicker materials, or who want to engrave, deboss, and perforate. It is also a great option if you can afford to splash out the extra bucks to future proof your purchase.
It’s worth noting that depending on which feature you would like to do you may need to purchase a blade to do it.
I hope that was helpful and didn’t confuse you more, let me know which one you decide to buy.
Thanks, Stacey