Crafting enthusiasts and DIYers alike are drawn to Cricut machines for their ability to efficiently cut projects with an array of materials.
To assist you in determining which machine is best suited for your crafting requirements, this blog post will review the features and capabilities of each - the Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore Air 2, and Cricut Joy.
We'll investigate both advantages/disadvantages so that when it comes time to make a decision you feel confident in what works best for you.
Contents
Comparison of Cricut Machines
Machine | Cutting Materials | Cutting Thickness | Dual Carriage | Size | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cricut Maker | Wide variety | Up to 2.4mm | Yes | Large | High |
Cricut Explore Air 2 | Wide variety | Up to 2mm | Yes | Medium | Medium |
Cricut Joy | Paper, cardstock, vinyl, iron-on | Up to 1.5mm | No | Small | Low |
Cricut Easypress | N/A | N/A | N/A | Small | Medium |
Note: The above table is only a sample and comparison, there could be some slight variation based on the model and year it was released.
1. Cricut Maker
The Cricut Maker is the most advanced and versatile machine on the market as it can cut, write, and score virtually any material with its 2.4mm thick capability.
The range of blades and tools that this model offers is unparalleled compared to other similar machines - plus its expansive size makes it super powerful. Even though you may pay a bit more for this powerhouse device, the results are worth every penny.
2. Cricut Explore Air 2
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is the perfect middle-of-the-road choice if you're looking for a versatile machine that can tackle cutting, writing, and scoring multiple materials.
With its dual carriage feature, you have double the opportunity to work on two projects simultaneously.
However, it's not as powerful as its Maker counterpart; hence it won't be able to accommodate thicker material such as metal or wood nor enable access to newer blades and tools.
Nevertheless, this one offers an excellent balance between features & price.
3. Cricut Joy
The Cricut Joy is an ideal device for those who wish to create small, lightweight projects. From cards and labels to home decorations, this mini machine can cut 1.5mm thick materials quickly - without needing any additional setup or space!
Although it might not be as powerful as the Maker or Explore Air 2 when dealing with thicker items and larger tasks, its portability makes it perfect for crafting on-the-go.
4. Cricut Easypress
The Cricut EasyPress is an excellent portable and versatile heat press designed for use with iron-on materials. Not only does it offer a range of temperature and timer settings, but you can also utilize this amazing tool on various fabrics as well.
However, keep in mind that the EasyPress isn't a cutting machine; its sole purpose is to provide swift heat pressing services.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cricut Machine
Conclusion
We dug deep into the Cricut family of machines, including the Maker, Explore Air 2, Joy, and EasyPress. We explored each machine's benefits and drawbacks as well as its features to provide you with an all-encompassing overview.
We also provided a comparison table summarizing the key differences between the machines.
For experienced crafters and DIYers, we recommend opting for the Cricut Maker. For those just starting out or looking to save money, go with the Cricut Explore Air 2 or Joy instead.
If heat pressing is a must-have feature then make sure to select Cricut EasyPress as it has been designed specifically with that purpose in mind.
As you shop for the perfect Cricut machine, it is important to take your preferences and needs into consideration. Make sure to do thorough research and read customer reviews before deciding on one model over another.
Hello there, my name is Carole Lokey from Texas. I am a die cutting and scrapbooking enthusiast and I have been sharing my passion with my friends and likeminded folks for close to 15 years now. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me via the contact page. Learn More>>