Contents
You want the cheapest cricut to start your crafting. The Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle is our top pick. It cuts 12 inches (30.5 cm) and handles many materials. The Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle is a great value pick. You sacrifice some cutting size for a more compact machine.
The main tradeoff is size versus portability. The Cricut Explore® 5 cuts larger designs, while the Cricut Joy 2 is easier to store. The rest of this page gives you detailed comparisons and specs for all the top models.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Cricuts Reviewed in Detail
Explore the reviews below to find the perfect cricut for your needs.
1. Top Pick
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 make custom decals, personalized apparel, and full-color stickers. You can cut materials up to 12 inches wide. This model is 30% smaller than older versions, making it easier to store.
Pros
Compact design saves space. Great for a variety of projects. Comes with digital content for extra creativity.
Cons
Not as powerful for thicker materials as some other models. Limited to cutting only; no engraving option.
Good choice if you need a compact machine for everyday crafts and simple projects.
The Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle is a practical option for casual crafters.
2. Best Design
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.
Cricut Joy 2 is light and easy to carry. It is great for quick projects like custom cards or simple labels. This model connects with your home printer for full-color stickers. It weighs just over 2 lbs, making it very portable.
Pros
Super lightweight and easy to use. Perfect for quick, simple projects. Works with home printers for stickers.
Cons
Limited cutting size compared to larger machines. Not suitable for more complex projects.
Best for those who want a simple cutting machine for quick crafts.
Cricut Joy 2 is a solid pick for quick, small-scale creative tasks.
3. Best for Daily Use
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 Explore 5 Deluxe Bundle offers more features than the standard version. It includes additional tools and digital content for more project options. The machine is still compact and easy to use for various materials.
Pros
Includes extra tools for more creative options. It is compact and user-friendly.
Cons
Slightly more expensive than the basic model. Not ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Great for crafty people who want a bit more than basic tools.
The Cricut Explore 5 Deluxe Bundle provides solid value for creative projects at home.
4. Runner-Up
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.
Cricut Maker 5 Essential Bundle cuts over 300 materials. It can even handle thicker items like leather. This machine works with 13 tools, allowing for cutting and engraving. It’s very versatile for a range of crafts.
Pros
Cuts a wide variety of materials. Multifunctional with multiple tools. Good for complex projects.
Cons
Higher price point compared to simpler models. Requires more setup time to switch between tools.
Ideal for serious crafters or professionals wanting to create more complex items.
The Cricut Maker 5 Essential Bundle is a powerful option for diverse crafting needs.
5. Best Budget
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 Maker 5 Best Bundle is similar to the Essential but includes more accessories. With this bundle, you get everything needed for advanced projects. It still cuts over 300 materials and engraves many surfaces.
Pros
Comes with all necessary tools for advanced crafting. Great versatility for various materials.
Cons
Tall learning curve for beginners. More expensive due to bundled tools.
Best suited for experienced crafters and small business owners.
The Cricut Maker 5 Best Bundle is perfect for advanced users needing total crafting control.
6. Best for Beginners
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.*
Cricut Joy Xtra is a smart cutting machine. It is designed for everyday projects and is easy to use. The bundle includes tools and materials to get started right away. You can create custom items quickly.
Pros
Compact and easy to transport. Comes with necessary tools to start crafting immediately.
Cons
Limited cutting area. Not suitable for large projects.
Good fit for beginners wanting a machine for quick, small projects.
Cricut Joy Xtra is a great choice for newcomers to crafting.
7. Most Versatile
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 is packed with features. It allows you to create a variety of projects easily. This model still offers great cutting power for different materials and includes extras.
Pros
Includes additional tools and digital content. Compact design helps with storage.
Cons
More expensive than the basic version. May be overwhelming for new users.
Great for those who want more options without moving to a more powerful machine.
The Cricut Explore 5 Best Bundle provides good value with its extra tools.
8. Best for Small Spaces
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 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle is designed for apparel creation. It comes with a heat press and materials for custom shirts. This bundle includes everything you need to start right out of the box.
Pros
All-in-one kit for easy t-shirt making. No additional equipment needed.
Cons
Limited to t-shirt making and similar projects. Higher upfront cost due to the complete bundle.
Perfect for hobbyists focused on creating custom apparel.
The Cricut Maker 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle is an excellent choice for custom clothing projects.
Cricuts Compared Side by Side
This table compares several models of the cheapest cricut. The columns show key features and who they suit best. For those wanting to know which to buy, focus on the row that fits your crafting needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content | Top Pick | Cricut | $249 | Check |
| 2 | Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle + Rainbow Sampler | Best Design | Cricut | $131.99 | Check |
| 3 | Cricut Explore® 5 + Deluxe Bundle + Digital Content | Best for Daily Use | Cricut | $279 | Check |
| 4 | Cricut Maker® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content | Runner-Up | Cricut | $399 | Check |
| 5 | Cricut Maker® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content | Best Budget | Cricut | $499 | Check |
| 6 | Cricut Joy Xtra | Best for Beginners | Cricut | $179 | Check |
| 7 | Cricut Explore® 5 Ultimate Bundle + Digital Content | Most Versatile | Cricut | $319 | Check |
| 8 | Cricut Maker 4 T-Shirt Making Bundle | Best for Small Spaces | 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 to Choose Cricuts
Cutting Size
When choosing a cricut, consider the cutting size. Most models cut either 6 or 12 inches. If you work on larger projects like banners, choose one that cuts 12 inches. For smaller crafts, a 6-inch model will do.
Material Compatibility
Different cricuts work with different materials. Look for models that cut vinyl, cardstock, and fabric. If you plan to use more materials, like leather, choose a machine that lists it as compatible.
Bundled Accessories
Check what accessories come with your cricut. Some include tools for cutting and weeding. Others offer software subscriptions. A good bundle can save you money on extras you will need.
Portability
If you plan to move your cricut often, consider its weight and size. Some models are light and compact. These are easier to store and take to craft events. Heavier models usually have more features but are less portable.
User-Friendly Features
Look for features that make the cricut easier to use. Some models have touchscreens or easier setup processes. Check reviews for user opinions on how simple the machine is to operate.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from manufacturer specifications, customer reviews, and product comparisons. We focus on trusted online sources to ensure accurate information. This approach helps you make informed choices.
How we built this shortlist
We reviewed over 20 cricut models based on features, user ratings, and popularity. We selected those that stood out for value, ease of use, and performance. Each pick meets basic criteria that buyers look for.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded models that had low user ratings or lack of features. Machines with limited material compatibility did not make the list. Our focus is on models that offer the best overall value.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed. We did not take lab measurements or create scores. All findings are based on existing data and user reviews.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect new releases and changes in popularity. We strive to keep the information current so you can rely on it for your cricut purchase.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest cricut model?
The cheapest cricut model varies based on the bundle and features. Typically, smaller models like the Cricut Joy 2 are less expensive than larger ones.
Can I cut fabric with these cricuts?
Yes, some models, like the Cricut Maker, can cut fabric. Check the specifications to see which materials each model can work with.
Do these machines come with software?
Most cricuts include software for design and cutting. Some bundles also offer a subscription option for additional features and images.
Are there any wireless options?
Yes, many cricut models support Bluetooth. This allows you to connect wirelessly to your computer or mobile device.
How thick of material can these cricuts cut?
The thickness varies by model. Most can cut up to 2 mm thick, while some, like the Cricut Maker, can handle materials up to 3 mm.
What to look for
Cutting Precision
Cutting precision is key for cricut machines. Look for models that offer fine-point blades. This allows for clean cuts, especially for intricate designs. Precision referrals should be in the specifications for each machine.
Speed of Cutting
Speed matters when you have many projects. Some cricuts cut faster than others. Check the cutting speed in inches per minute (IPM) in the specs. Faster machines can save you time on large projects.
Ease of Use
Beginner users should prioritize ease of use. Look for features like touchscreen controls and guided setup. Simple machines will help you learn quickly without getting frustrated.
Software Compatibility
Ensure the cricut you choose works with your favorite design software. Many models come with their own software, but you may want compatibility with others like Silhouette or Adobe.
Versatility
Choose a cricut that can handle multiple types of projects. Some models cut vinyl, cardstock, and fabric. Others engrave or draw as well. A versatile machine will allow you to explore more crafting opportunities.
About the author
Similar guides
- 8 Best Fish Tapes in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Pregnancy Tests in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Worm Farms in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Angle Grinders in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Biscuit Joiners in 2026 Home & Living
- 8 Best Worm Farms in 2026 Home & Living
