Looking to bring your DIY dreams to life? Cricut machines are your go-to tools for cutting, writing, scoring, and crafting with precision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned maker, these machines can handle everything from vinyl decals and custom t-shirts to intricate paper crafts. Here’s a quick look at the best Cricut machines to match your creative needs.
Our Top 5 Picks | BUYING LINK |
---|---|
1. Cricut Maker 4 Cutting Machine | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
2. Cricut Joy Xtra Cutting Machine | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
3. Cricut Explore 4 Cutting Machine | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
4. Cricut Maker 3 | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
5. Cricut Joy Machine | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
1. Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell)

The Cricut Maker 4 in Seashell offers professional-level versatility in a sleek, user-friendly design. Packed with tools, materials, and digital content, this bundle is perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike who want to create everything from personalized decals to leather goods and 3D art.
Key Features:
- Cuts 300+ materials including vinyl, leather, and matboard
- Includes Smart Vinyl, Iron-On HTV, cardstock, and tools
- Print-Then-Cut compatible with inkjet printers
- Works with Cricut Design Space app (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac)
- Includes 25 digital images and 50 free project templates
- Access to beginner guides, expert tutorials, and workshops
Pros:
- Exceptionally versatile – cuts, draws, engraves, foils, and more
- No cutting mat needed with Smart Materials
- Great for both simple and advanced projects
- High-quality tools and materials included
- Seamless app integration with robust design features
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Cricut Access subscription required for full content library
- Requires some learning time for beginners
2. Cricut Joy Xtra Smart Cutting Machine

Compact yet powerful, the Cricut Joy Xtra is the perfect machine for everyday makers. Designed to handle a wide variety of projects, from custom stickers to personalized cards, it offers a user-friendly experience without compromising on precision or versatility.
Key Features:
- Works with 50+ materials including vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock
- Supports Print-Then-Cut using your home inkjet printer
- Cuts fine, detailed designs with ease
- Can write, draw, and add foil embellishments
- Compatible with US Letter and A4 material sizes
Pros:
- Small footprint, ideal for desktops and limited spaces
- Great for quick, simple projects
- Easy to set up and use
- Supports popular material sizes for convenience
- Print-Then-Cut expands creative possibilities
Cons:
- Not compatible with thicker or more advanced materials like leather or wood
- Smaller cutting width than larger Cricut models
- Limited tools compared to Maker series
3. Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell)

The Cricut Explore 4 strikes the perfect balance between creativity and functionality. Ideal for crafters who want more capability without the complexity of professional tools, this machine cuts, draws, foils, and scores with precision—all while offering a sleek design and a helpful starter bundle.
Key Features:
- Cuts 100+ materials including vinyl, iron-on HTV, cardstock, and stickers
- Includes Smart Materials sampler and essential tools
- Compatible with Print-Then-Cut using most inkjet printers
- Works with Cricut Design Space app (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac)
- Includes 25 digital images and 50 free project templates
- Guided learning through built-in beginner tutorials and workshops
Pros:
- Versatile crafting with drawing, foiling, and scoring features
- Easier to use than Maker models, yet more advanced than Cricut Joy
- Comes with a helpful starter bundle for immediate creativity
- Sleek and compact design with Smart Materials compatibility
Cons:
- Not compatible with heavy-duty materials like leather or wood
- Requires Cricut Access subscription for full design library access
- Fewer tools compared to Cricut Maker series
4. Cricut Maker 3 & Digital Content Library Bundle

The Cricut Maker 3 is a powerhouse smart cutting machine designed for ambitious creators. With unmatched cutting speed, 10X more cutting force, and compatibility with over 300 materials and 13 tools, it’s built to tackle your most creative and professional-level projects with ease.
Key Features:
- Cuts 300+ materials, from vinyl and cardstock to leather and matboard
- 2X faster cutting and 10X more power than previous Cricut machines
- Compatible with 13 tools for cutting, scoring, engraving, debossing, and more
- Works with Cricut Smart Materials for mat-free cuts up to 12 ft long
- Includes 30 digital images and 50 free project templates
- Supports Print-Then-Cut and integrates with Design Space (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac)
- Guided learning with beginner-friendly courses and workshops
Pros:
- Exceptional cutting precision and speed for advanced projects
- Wide material and tool compatibility
- Perfect for both DIY crafts and pro-level creations
- Long, continuous cuts ideal for banners, decals, and bulk projects
- Digital content and learning support included for a smooth start
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to Explore or Joy series
- Learning curve for new users
- Requires Cricut Access subscription for full content and feature access
5. Cricut Joy Machine & Digital Content Library Bundle

The Cricut Joy is a compact, portable smart cutting machine designed for quick, everyday creativity. Ideal for custom cards, labels, decals, and more, this lightweight tool packs a punch in performance—especially when paired with the included 30 digital images and app-based design support.
Key Features:
- Cuts 50+ materials including vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock
- Compact and lightweight at just 3.9 lbs
- Works with Smart Materials for long matless cuts
- Includes 30 digital images and access to Design Space app
- Bluetooth-enabled for wireless crafting from mobile or desktop
- Draws and writes in various styles
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and space-saving—great for small spaces and crafting on the go
- Simple setup and beginner-friendly interface
- Ideal for quick personalized projects like cards and labels
- Works well with Cricut Smart Materials for hassle-free cutting
Cons:
- Limited material and tool compatibility compared to larger models
- Smaller cutting width restricts larger project sizes
- No Print-Then-Cut feature
- Requires Cricut Access subscription for full content access
Conclusion
Whether you’re a beginner just dipping your toes into DIY or a seasoned crafter looking for professional-level precision, there’s a Cricut machine tailored to your needs. The Cricut Joy is perfect for quick, everyday projects and smaller spaces, while the Joy Xtra adds more flexibility with support for full-color print-then-cut designs. The Cricut Explore 4 offers a balance of speed, versatility, and affordability for hobbyists, while the Cricut Maker 3 and Maker 4 stand at the top with unmatched power, tool compatibility, and material support for truly limitless creativity. No matter which model you choose, every Cricut machine empowers you to bring your ideas to life with precision and ease.