Contents
Choosing the best cricut comes down to features and price. The Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle is our top pick because it can cut materials up to 12 inches wide. It is also 30% more compact than previous models, making it easy to store. For a more affordable option, the Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle is great, but you give up cutting larger projects since it is smaller in size.
The main tradeoff involves the cutting size versus the machine’s compactness. The larger Explore model offers more versatility for big projects, while the smaller Joy makes it easier to use for quick, simple tasks. The rest of this page provides detailed reviews to help you decide.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Cricuts Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review several Cricut machines to help you find the best one for your needs.
1. Editor’s Choice
Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content, Taupe
- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Essential Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. It’s enough supplies to create up to 65 projects. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
The Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle is a versatile cutting machine. It can create custom decals, personalized apparel, stickers, and cards. Its compact size makes it easy to store. This model is 30% smaller than older versions. You can cut materials up to 12 inches wide. It comes with digital content for added creativity.
Pros
Compact design saves space. Offers a variety of projects. Comes with useful digital content.
Cons
Limited to 12-inch cuts. May not suit heavy-duty projects. No engraving tool included.
Great for hobbyists and beginners. Suitable for crafting different items. Ideal for home use.
This is a solid choice for those starting with crafting.
2. Runner-Up
Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle + Rainbow Sampler
- COMPACT AND POWERFUL: Cricut Joy 2 is the next generation of our ultra-compact cutting machine – perfect for quick, everyday projects like custom cards, simple decals & labels. Plus, it works with your home inkjet printer to help you create full-color stickers. It weighs just over 2 lbs (0.91 kg), making it the ideal machine for crafting – and storing – in any space. It has a 4.5 in (11.4 cm) cutting width, so it’s perfect for smaller everyday projects.
- RAINBOW ESSENTIALS BUNDLE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Rainbow Essential Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, Printable Vinyl and access to over 400+ projects and how-to instructions in Cricut Design Space. It’s enough supplies to create up to 75 projects.
- ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES: The newest addion to the Cricut sticker making machine family, the Cricut Joy 2 now works with your printer to create full-color stickers. Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- COMPATIBILITY: Cricut Joy 2 works with 75+ materials, including popular materials like vinyl, iron-on, printable materials & cardstock, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
The Cricut Joy 2 is a compact cutting machine. It is perfect for quick projects like cards and labels. The weight of just over 2 lbs makes it very portable. This model works with your inkjet printer for full-color stickers. It is simple to use, making it good for beginners.
Pros
Lightweight and portable. Easy to operate for quick tasks. Compatible with home printers.
Cons
Limited cutting size. Not suitable for larger projects. Fewer materials can be used compared to others.
Perfect for casual crafters. Best for quick and simple projects. Good for kids and beginners.
A convenient option for quick crafting needs.
3. Best Value
Cricut Explore® 5 + Deluxe Bundle + Digital Content, Taupe
- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Deluxe Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. It’s enough supplies to create up to 100 projects. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
The Cricut Maker 5 Essential Bundle is powerful and versatile. It can cut over 300 materials, including thicker ones like leather. It also engraves materials like metal and acrylic. This machine works with 13 different tools. This opens up a lot of creative possibilities.
Pros
Cuts many materials. Can engrave and draw. Supports multiple tools for creativity.
Cons
Heavier than other models. Takes up more space. Higher learning curve for beginners.
Best for serious crafters. Suitable for various projects. Great for those who want to explore different materials.
A fantastic choice for advanced crafting tasks.
4. Best Budget
Cricut Maker® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content, Slate Blue
- MAKE WITH 300+ MATERIALS – Precision-cuts popular materials like vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and fabric – plus, thicker materials up to 3 mm, including leather and foam core board. It also engraves materials up to 3 mm like metal, acrylic, and more.
- WORKS WITH 13 TOOLS – This Cricut machine cuts, engraves, writes, draws, foils, scores, debosses, and more (specialty tools sold separately). Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- EFFORTLESS DESIGN EXPERIENCE – Easily turn your ideas into ready-to-make designs with Design Space, our free easy-to-use app.* Our ever-growing content library includes a total of 1.8 million+ images, 1,500+ fonts, 300,000+ projects, and 50,000 templates – and it’s all yours with a Cricut Access Subscription.*
- INCLUDES SUPPLIES TO MAKE UP TO 65 PROJECTS* – Take on a variety of crafts – and save! This Cricut bundle includes must-have tools like the Premium Fine Point Cutting Tool, Scoring Tool, and Engraving Tool along with popular materials, Printable Vinyl, Insert Card Sets, and more Cricut accessories.
- BONUS DIGITAL CONTENT – Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.*
- SLEEK, MODERN DESIGN – 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Maker 5 features a new look and simplified making experience — all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance.
The Cricut Maker 5 Best Bundle includes many tools. It cuts and engraves over 300 materials. This model is similar to the Maker 5 Essential but offers more accessories. It is designed for detailed projects like custom apparel. The included tools expand your creativity even further.
Pros
Comes with useful additional tools. Offers great flexibility in projects. Cuts popular materials with ease.
Cons
The price may be higher. Requires a bit of setup. More advanced features may overwhelm newcomers.
Best for crafting enthusiasts. Suitable for complex projects. Great for users looking to maximize creativity.
A strong option for those wanting a complete crafting setup.
5. Best Compact
Cricut Maker® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content, Slate Blue
- MAKE WITH 300+ MATERIALS – Precision-cuts popular materials like vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and fabric – plus, thicker materials up to 3 mm, including leather and foam core board. It also engraves materials up to 3 mm like metal, acrylic, and more.
- WORKS WITH 13 TOOLS – This Cricut machine cuts, engraves, writes, draws, foils, scores, debosses, and more (specialty tools sold separately). Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- EFFORTLESS DESIGN EXPERIENCE – Easily turn your ideas into ready-to-make designs with Design Space, our free easy-to-use app.* Our ever-growing content library includes a total of 1.8 million+ images, 1,500+ fonts, 300,000+ projects, and 50,000 templates – and it’s all yours with a Cricut Access Subscription.*
- INCLUDES SUPPLIES TO MAKE UP TO 135 PROJECTS* – Unlock even more project possibilities and save. This Cricut bundle includes a Cricut EasyPress Mini LT heat press and our largest assortment of tools and materials, including the Knife Blade, Engraving Tool, Rotary Blade, and Deep Cutting Tool – plus popular materials, Printable Vinyl, Insert Card Sets, and more Cricut accessories.
- BONUS DIGITAL CONTENT – Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.*
- SLEEK, MODERN DESIGN – 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Maker 5 features a new look and simplified making experience — all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance.
The Cricut Joy Xtra is a smart cutting machine. It is designed for easy personalization and creativity. The bundle includes a fine-point blade and pen for detail work. This model is user-friendly for all ages. It is great for quick crafting without much setup.
Pros
Easy to use and set up. Great for quick projects. Includes useful accessories.
Cons
Limited to smaller projects. Not suitable for heavy materials. Fewer features compared to larger models.
Good for beginners and kids. Perfect for quick crafting and small items. Best for users with limited space.
A practical choice for those starting out or needing quick results.
6. Best Design
Cricut Joy Xtra – Smart Cutting Machine | Digital Content Bundle
- BUNDLE INCLUDES – Cricut Joy Xtra, Fine-Point Blade, Fine Point Pen, Mini Weeder, Welcome card, USB cable, Power adapter, Free trial subscription to Cricut Access (for new subscribers), Materials for a practice cut, 30 bonus images in Design Space app
- ENDLESS CREATION & PERSONALIZATION – Cricut Joy Xtra works with 50+ materials, including vinyl, iron-on HTV, cardstock, stickers & so much more; This machine not only cuts, but it also draws, foils, & more
- COMPATIBLE WITH INKJET PRINTER – Create full-color designs for stickers & more with the Print-Then-Cut feature, compatible with most inkjet printers
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED — Design Space is the easy-to-learn design software that connects to all Cricut cutting machines; Our free content library includes 3,000+ images and 100+ fonts; Add our optional Cricut Access Subscription* to unlock more
- BONUS DIGITAL CONTENT – Bundle includes 30 additional premium-quality images with purchase
- CREATE WITH OVER 1.5 MILLION IMAGES* – The ever-growing Design Space content library includes a total of 1,500,000+ images, 1,000+ fonts, and 100,000+ projects when you unlock our full library with our optional paid Cricut Access Subscription.*
The Cricut Maker 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle is designed for custom apparel. It includes everything needed to cut and press shirts. The EasyPress SE makes applying designs simple. You will get vinyl and iron-on materials included. This bundle allows you to start crafting right away.
Pros
All-in-one bundle for t-shirt making. Simple to use with included tools. Ideal for custom apparel projects.
Cons
Limited to fabric projects. May require practice for best results. Not ideal for larger crafting projects.
Great for fashion enthusiasts. Best for making custom t-shirts and apparel. Suitable for home projects.
A fantastic option for those focused on clothing and fabric designs.
7. Best Lightweight
Cricut Explore® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content, Taupe
- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Ultimate Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl — plus a Cricut EasyPress Mini LT heat press. It’s enough supplies to create up to 135 projects. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
The Cricut Explore 5 Best Bundle has all the features of the Explore 5. It adds more tools and materials for creative projects. This bundle allows for more detailed work. It retains the compact design for easy storage. It is perfect for those who want to dive deeper into crafting.
Pros
Includes extra tools for more options. Retains compact size. Good for various projects.
Cons
Can be complicated for beginners. May take time to learn all features. Higher price point than basic models.
Best for dedicated crafters. Suitable for varying project sizes. Ideal for users wanting to expand their skills.
A strong choice for crafters looking to enhance their toolkit.
8. Best Heavy-Duty
Cricut Maker 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle – Cutting Machine with EasyPress SE Heat Press, Vinyl & Iron-On Kit for Custom Apparel, Tote Bags & DIY Projects
- COMPLETE T-SHIRT MAKING BUNDLE: All-in-one Cricut Maker 4 and EasyPress SE bundle with vinyl and iron-on (HTV) materials, tools, and accessories to design, cut, and press custom apparel right out of the box with no additional equipment required.
- DESIGN, CUT & PRESS YOUR OWN SHIRTS: Create custom t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags & more in 4 easy steps; design, cut, press and apply! Maker 4 cuts with precision, and the heat press applies heat transfer designs with consistent, professional results.
- PERFECT FOR DIY APPAREL & SMALL BUSINESS USE: Ideal for hobbyists, Etsy sellers, and creators looking to make custom clothing, personalized gifts, and sellable products from home with an easy-to-use system.
- EVEN HEAT FOR PROFESSIONAL RESULTS: EasyPress SE delivers consistent heat and pressure for smooth, long-lasting transfers that adhere evenly and resist peeling, cracking, or fading over time. The auto-shutoff and heat base keep safety in mind.
- ALL-IN-ONE APPAREL CREATION SYSTEM: Includes Maker 4 die-cutting machine, heat press, tools, and vinyl and HTV (iron-on) materials so you can start making custom apparel immediately, saving time and money compared to buying items separately.
The Cricut Maker 5 Essential Bundle is a powerful machine. It cuts and engraves over 300 materials. The included tools allow various creative projects. This model is perfect for custom items and detailed work. It’s designed for those who like to explore crafting.
Pros
Versatile for many materials. Great for detailed projects. Supports multiple creative tools.
Cons
Heavier than simpler machines. Takes up more space in your craft area. May be overwhelming for beginners.
Perfect for experienced crafters. Best for those wanting detailed project options. Great for creative individuals.
A top pick for those serious about crafting.
Cricuts Compared Side by Side
Our comparison table shows key features of each machine, including cutting size, included tools, and more. Look at the columns that matter most to you as you search for the best cricut for your projects.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content | Editor's Choice | Cricut | $249 | Check |
| 2 | Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle + Rainbow Sampler | Runner-Up | Cricut | $129.99 | Check |
| 3 | Cricut Explore® 5 + Deluxe Bundle + Digital Content | Best Value | Cricut | $279 | Check |
| 4 | Cricut Maker® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content | Best Budget | Cricut | $399 | Check |
| 5 | Cricut Maker® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content | Best Compact | Cricut | $499 | Check |
| 6 | Cricut Joy Xtra | Best Design | Cricut | $179 | Check |
| 7 | Cricut Explore® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content | Best Lightweight | Cricut | $319 | Check |
| 8 | Cricut Maker 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle | Best Heavy-Duty | Cricut | $599.99 | Check |
| 9 | Cricut Maker 4 | — | Cricut | $379 | Check |
| 10 | Cricut Joy™ 2 Essential Bundle + Digital Content | — | Cricut | $139 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from various trusted sources, including manufacturer specifications and customer reviews. We focused on the latest models to ensure you have relevant information.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes machines that offer a mix of features and value. We reviewed over 15 products and selected those that meet specific cutting sizes and material types.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out machines that lacked customer support or had poor user reviews. If a machine didn’t have a minimum cutting size of 6 inches, it was also excluded.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and we did not perform lab measurements. We based our findings solely on available data from manufacturers and user experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed regularly to ensure all information is current. Updates occur every few months or whenever we have new models or data.
What to look for
Cutting Size
The cutting size of a Cricut machine is important. Most home projects require at least a 12-inch width, especially for banners or larger decals. If you often work with smaller crafts, a machine with a 6-inch or 8-inch width may suffice. Consider what size projects you will create regularly.
Material Compatibility
Different Cricut machines can cut various materials. For example, if you want to cut thicker materials, look for machines that handle up to 3 mm thickness. Machines that can cut fabric, vinyl, and cardstock are more versatile. Ensure the machine fits the materials you want to use most.
Tools and Accessories
Each Cricut machine comes with different tools and accessories. Some models include extra blades and pens for drawing, while others may not. Check what is included with your machine. The more tools included, the less you’ll spend on additional accessories.
Software Compatibility
Make sure the Cricut machine works with user-friendly software. Most models connect to Cricut Design Space, which is essential for design and cutting. If you want to create complex designs, ensure the software is easy to use and has plenty of features.
Portability
If you plan to move your Cricut often, consider its weight and size. Some machines are designed to be lightweight and easy to transport. Look for models that are compact and come with carrying cases for convenience.
How to Choose Cricuts
Determine Your Cutting Size Needs
Start by deciding what size projects you will work on most. If you need to cut materials 12 inches wide, choose a machine that supports that size. For smaller projects, a cutting size of 6 inches could be enough.
Know the Materials You Will Use
Understand which materials you want to cut regularly. If you’re cutting fabric or thicker materials, select a machine that can handle up to 3 mm thickness. This ensures you can complete various projects without limitations.
Consider Your Crafting Frequency
Think about how often you will use the Cricut. If it’s a daily tool for your crafting, invest in a durable machine. For occasional use, a more compact model may be sufficient and easier to store.
Evaluate Included Accessories
Check what accessories come with your Cricut. Some machines include extra cutting blades or pens. If you plan to do a variety of projects, ensure you have the tools needed right away.
Think About Software Ease of Use
Look for machines that connect to user-friendly design software. If you’re new to crafting, an intuitive software experience can help you get started quickly. Read reviews to find out how easy the software is to work through.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cricut for beginners?
The best cricut for beginners is usually the Cricut Joy, as it is compact and easy to use for small projects.
Can I use my cricut for fabric?
Yes, many Cricut machines can cut fabric. Models like the Cricut Maker are great for this purpose.
What materials can a Cricut machine cut?
A Cricut machine can cut a variety of materials, including vinyl, cardstock, fabric, and even leather with specific models.
How do I choose the right Cricut machine?
Choose the right Cricut machine by considering your project size, the materials you’ll use, and the features you need.
Is the Cricut software easy to learn?
Yes, Cricut Design Space is designed to be user-friendly. Many beginners find it easy to learn with tutorials available online.
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