Best Cricut Machines To Buy in 2023

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Anyone who has been crafting for a while knows about the magic that Cricut machines can do. From making the most intricate of cuts to doing the best of iron on work, these machines don’t disappoint. In fact, for every crafting purpose, there are several models of Cricut machines to choose from.

Best Cricut Machines in 2023:

While having a variety to choose from is a good thing, it is not easy to compare Cricut machines and pick one.

On the other hand, going through the hundreds of Cricut machine reviews on e-commerce sites is just too much work.

Best Cricut Machine Reviews - Compare Cricut Machines

To make things much easier for you, we decided to come up with our own review of the best Cricut machines.

In this review, you will find different types of Cricut machines that have been highly rated by hundreds of users. These machines are a testament to the fact that Cricut has excelled in creating high quality machines for every type of crafter.

The Newest Cricut Machines to Buy

Before we get to all the nitty-gritties, here is a summary of our the newest Cricut machines and their highlights. This summary is designed to enable you to choose a Cricut machine in little to no time.

Best Cricut Machines 2023
Latest Maker
Cricut Maker 3
  • Max cut length up to 12 ft (3.6 m)
  • Up to 2X faster than Maker
  • Compatible with Smart Materials
Latest Explore
Cricut Explore Air 3
  • Max cut length up to 12 ft (3.6 m)
  • Compatible with Smart Materials
Best Overall
Cricut Maker
  • Cuts 300+ materials
  • 10X more power than other models
  • Works with 12+ tools for pro-level scoring, engraving, debossing & other effects
  • Comes with hundreds of digital sewing patterns
Best Value
Cricut Explore Air 2
  • Cuts 100+ types of material
  • 2X faster cutting and writing
  • Comes with embedded Bluetooth
  • Comes with free access to Cricut’s design software
Most Compact
Cricut Joy
  • Super compact, lightweight only 3.9 lbs
  • Cuts 50+ types of material
  • Cuts up to 20-ft long and 4-in wide
  • Card mat for quick custom card
Best For Heat Press
Cricut EasyPress 2
  • Best for iron-on vinyl
  • Allows for precise temperature control
  • Provides results in at most 60 seconds
  • Light and portable
For Detailed Projects
Cricut EasyPress Mini
  • Best for small heat transfer projects
  • 3 heat settings, insulated safety base
  • Compact, easy to use and store
  • Good price
Mug Printing
Cricut Mug Press
  • Best for printing on 11-16 oz mugs
  • Optimized for Infusible Ink products
  • Safety-conscious and compact design
  • Easy to set up and use

Which is The Right Cricut Machine to Buy?

Still don’t know which Cricut you should buy? Here are some recommendations for you:

Best Cricut machine for everythingCricut Maker 3 – The most powerful and functional Cricut machine for pro-level DIYers. Compatible with 12+ tools for cutting, writing, scoring and other pro-level effects.

Best Cricut machine for beginnersCricut Explore Air 2 – Versatile yet affordable machine for first-time users, DIY-ers, and hobbyists. This is also the most popular Cricut machine.

Best Cricut machine for vinyl and decalsCricut Maker with Fine-Point Blade for precise, detailed cuts.

Best Cricut machine for fabricCricut Maker 3 with Rotary Blade for cutting through any fabric quickly and accurately – without backing material.

Best Cricut for scrapbookingCricut Explore Air 2

Best Cricut machine for labels: Cricut Joy – the newest Cricut machine can cut up to 20 feet at one time, perfect for making labels, banners, or custom vinyl decals.

Best Cricut machine for woodworkingCricut Maker series with Knife Blade – cut thicker materials up to 2.4 mm (3/32”).

Best Cricut machine for making T-shirtsCricut EasyPress 2 – Cricut heat press machine with four distinct sizes to fit a wide variety of applications.

Best Cricut machine for making decals and shirtsCricut Maker (for cutting) and Cricut EasyPress 2 (for applying heat transfer vinyl) machine combo.

Best Cricut machine for teachersCricut Joy – it is lightweight and compact so you can easily bring it to the classes or anywhere.

Best Cricut machine for ball/cap decorCricut Joy or any Cricut cutting machine (for cutting heat transfer vinyl patterns) and EasyPress Mini (for applying HTV on ball/cap, especially for curvy areas).

Best Cricut to make greeting cardsCricut Joy – it works with Card Mat for quick custom cards.

Best Cricut machine for mug printing: Cricut Mug Press – this latest Cricut machine is designed for making mugs in minutes and can be used with lots of different cylinder-shaped items such as tumblers, ceramic mugs, mason jars, and so on as long as they come with sublimation coating.

Where is The Best Place to Buy a Cricut Machine?

Cricut.com: Cricut official online store is where you can find the latest Cricut models, Cricut machine comparison, materials and accessories for Cricut machines, also a Cricut Image Library Cricut Access. Cricut offers discounts and deals almost every week or month, so bookmark this page Cricut.com if you own a Cricut machine, you may find great deals here.

Amazon.com: You can buy Cricut machines at the official Cricut page on Amazon or buy from other sellers on Amazon who may offer a lower price. Be sure to check if the machine is brand-new or used one.

SwingDesign.com claims themselves as the largest Silhouette & Cricut supplier so they offer many Cricut machine bundles and accessories at a very attractive price. With their hand-picked Cricut bundle options, you can find everything you need to get started on the crafting journey.

Best Cricut Machine Reviews 2023

In order for you to make a well-informed decision on which Cricut machine to buy, it is important to understand the ins and outs of our top picks.

In this review, we intend to get into the nitty-gritty details of each of our recommended products. So sit back and get ready to be thoroughly informed.

#1 – Best Overall: Cricut Maker

Check the review of the latest Cricut Maker 3 machine HERE!

Cricut Maker: Best Cricut Machine for Craft Cutting
Cricut Maker: Best Cricut Machine for Craft Cutting
Pros
  • Powerful blades
  • Has Bluetooth connectivity
  • Automatically detects whether you are using the right blade or not
  • Produces high-quality cuts very quickly

Cons
  • The knife blade has to be ordered separately
  • Limited cutting space

Overview

This is currently the best Cricut cutting machine to buy. It comes with a bunch of features that are noticeably absent in other Cricut machines. It gives you the power to create a variety of products ranging from paper crafts to leather projects.

One of Cricut Maker’s most noticeable features is its expandable suite of tools that grow with you as you grow in expertise.

For instance, this machine’s rotary blade has both rolling and gliding functions that make it easy for it to cut through any fabric without needing a backing material. Needless to say, it is the best Cricut machine for fabric of any kind.

It also boasts of hundreds of digital sewing patterns and convenience features like a docking slot and a USB port. As if that isn’t enough, this machine lets you access it through your smartphone or computer.

Let’s take a closer look at the Cricut Maker in this video:

Verdict

Whether you are a beginner or a full-blown crafting professional, you will appreciate what the Cricut Maker can do. It is easy to use yet versatile enough to keep you intrigued as you gather experience.

As much as it is substantially more expensive than the other Cricut machines, the value it offers is worth the price.

#2 – Best Value: Cricut Explore Air 2

Check the review of the latest Cricut Explore Air 3 machine HERE!

Best Value Cricut Machine: Cricut Explore Air 2
Best Value Cricut Machine: Cricut Explore Air 2
Pros
  • Ample storage space
  • Precise cutting
  • Offers good value for money

Cons
  • It is louder than the previous model (Cricut Explore Air)

Overview

With its cool color and the ability to cut over 100 materials, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is a thing of beauty. Using its embedded Bluetooth technology allows for wireless cutting; only one of its awesome features.

Users particularly love its Smart Set Dial function that sets the appropriate pressure and depth for the material you are cutting. This feature makes Explore Air 2 the best Cricut machine for vinyl.

Another thing we love about this machine is that it not only gives you access to Cricut’s design software but also allows you to upload your own designs to the machine.

Moreover, it lets you design from anywhere using the Cricut Design App for Android and IOS devices.

Check out this video for more features and functions of the Cricut Explore Air 2:

Verdict

If you are looking for a Cricut machine that will give you a lot of value for an affordable price, the Explore Air 2 is the one for you.

It has fewer features than the Cricut Maker but does most of what the Maker can do. This makes it very popular among intermediate crafters.

#3 – Most Compact: Cricut Joy

Most Compact and Portable Cricut Machine: Cricut Joy
Most Compact and Portable Cricut Machine: Cricut Joy
Pros
  • Fast and quiet operation
  • Easy to setup, super portable and easy to travel with
  • 50 free online projects for inspiration

Cons
  • Does not include Wi-Fi capabilities
  • No power button might be annoying to some users

Overview

Cricut Joy is the latest and most compact Cricut cutting machine so far.

This machine is significantly smaller than the previous models, Maker and Explore Air 2. It is only 5.5 inches and weighs only 3.9 lbs (1.75 kg) so you can carry it anywhere you go.

Like its predecessors, Cricut Joy allows you to customize your designs using a wide variety of line weights and pen types. The write, doodle and draw functions can achieve any shapes, patterns, letters, numbers, objects and more.

The newest function is that it can work with longer materials and can produce continuous cuts without a cutting mat. The machine can cut a single image that measures up to 4 feet long and 4 inches wide or create repeated cuts up to 20 feet long.

The machine has Bluetooth built-in, so you can design anywhere. This also eliminates the need for extra connections and cables.

Verdict

Cricut Joy is a simple and compact cutting machine for fun DIY projects. If portability is what matters to you, then this is the best Cricut machine to buy.

#4 – Cricut Heat Press Machine: Cricut Easy Press 2

Cricut Heat Press Machine: Cricut Easy Press 2 Review
Cricut Heat Press Machine: Cricut Easy Press 2 Review
Pros
  • Light and portable
  • Compatible with most heat-transfer vinyl brands
  • Comes in a variety of sizes
  • Gives professional results

Cons
  • It’s a little pricy

Overview

As we said before, Cricut doesn’t only produce cutting machines. It also produces some of the most impressive iron-on machines, one of which is the Cricut Easy Press 2.

This machine has been said to have been as fast as a heat press yet as convenient as an iron. This can be attributed to its amazing features.

One of them is its advanced heat plate design that allows for flawless heating. Users of the Cricut Easy Press 2 also like that it provides good results in a very short period of time.

To ensure safety, this Cricut machine also comes with an insulated safety base with an auto-shutoff feature.

Did we mention that the Cricut Easy Press 2 comes with precise temperature control up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit? Well, it does.

Have a closer look at this amazing Cricut heat press machine with this video:

Verdict

Ultimately, the Cricut Easy Press 2 does a stellar job at being a hybrid between an iron and a heat press. It is safe, efficient and easy to use, a perfect choice for newbies. It is also worth noting that it is undoubtedly the best Cricut machine for making shirts.

#5 – Cricut Mug Press: Best Cricut Machine for Printing on Mugs

The latest heat pressing machine by Cricut is made specifically for creating personalized mugs.

Best Cricut Machine For Mug Printing: Cricut Mug Press
Best Cricut Machine For Mug Printing: Cricut Mug Press
Pros
  • Easy setup and operation
  • Infusible Ink technology ensures the designs are permanent
  • Foolproof mechanism that can be mastered by anyone
  • Quick sublimation process
  • No heat or pressure settings required

Cons
  • Only Cricut Infusible Ink will work with the machine
  • Cricut’s mandatory design program is a paid feature
  • Works only with Cricut mug blanks or sublimation compatible mugs

Overview

Imagine a fancy device that huffs and puffs and transforms your mugs into gorgeous looking personalized drinking companions. Remove all the guesswork from the process. Explore thousands of designs and endless creative possibilities. All in a single press machine that will last for years.

What do you get? The Cricut mug press.

It is a single-button, foolproof mug pressing machine that automates the entire process you don’t have to worry about any setting. Just cut your favorite design using a Cricut Infusible Ink sheet, wrap it around a blank mug, and let the machine do the magic. It uses automatic temperature detection to optimize the heat and pressure settings required to permanently infuse the ink onto the mug’s surface.

And in case you are wondering about longevity, mugs printed by the Cricut mug press will stand the true test of time. The brand claims the designs will last forever, no matter how many times you use the mugs.

It’s a great tool for hobbyists, DIYers, and crafters who would want to turn their passion into a small business. Get this latest Cricut machine today and be the talk of the town.

Verdict

This is the best Cricut machine for mug printing. It simplifies and fastens the entire process. A true companion for crafters and DIYers who like creating fancy mugs that make a style statement. Get it today!

What Are The Differences Between Cricut Machines?

As we said before, Cricut machines come in many shapes and sizes. In this review alone, there are 7 machines, each different from the other.

To help you better understand these differences, we have decided to compare Cricut machines in this section of our review.

Cricut Machine Comparison Table

The following guide focuses on the differences among 4 Cricut electronic cutting machines:

  • Cricut Maker
  • Cricut Explore Air 2
  • Cricut Explore Air
  • Cricut Explore One
Cricut MakerExplore Air 2Explore AirExplore One
Cutting mat size12" x 12"
(30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
12" x 12"
(30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
12" x 12"
(30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
12" x 12"
(30.5 cm x 30.5 cm)
Free ready-to-made projects50, including 25 sewing patterns505025
Precise cutting, writing, and scoring technology
Cuts 100+ materials
Upload your own images and fonts for free
Easily design on PC, tablet, or smartphone
Dual Carriage
Works wirelessly via Bluetooth
Double tool holder
Up to 2X faster cutting and writing
10X more power to cut hundreds more materials
Rotary Blade for fabrics
Knife Blade for thicker materials
Scoring Wheel tools for razor-sharp folds
See price at AmazonSee price at AmazonSee price at AmazonSee price at Amazon

Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Line

The Cricut Maker is a smart cutting machine that can make intricate cuts in just a few clicks. This machine can cut from the most delicate of fabrics to the toughest of them with great precision, accuracy and speed.

It is also worth mentioning that the Cricut Maker comes with hundreds of digital patterns from which you can choose.

Interestingly, the Cricut Explore line of machines is also able to cut a variety of materials. Moreover, it also produces accurate and precise cuts.

This family of machines includes the Cricut Explore Air, the Cricut Explore Air 2, and the Cricut Explore Air One.

Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Family
Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Family

You may be tempted to ask, “So, what is the difference between Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore machines?” Well, there are quite a few. These include:

  • The Cricut Maker comes with a unique Adaptive Tool System that helps you expand the functionality of your tools
  • The machines in the Explore family can’t apply as much pressure as the Maker. As such, these machines experience difficulty cutting dense materials like leather, basswood and balsa wood.
  • All tools that work with the Explore family also work with the Maker. However, there are also tools that were designed to specifically work with the Maker. These include the Knife Blade and Rotary Blade.
  • While the Explore machines have a materials dial, the Maker lets you pick your material at the Design Space on the screen
  • The Maker comes with a mobile device dock, a USB port and more storage space than machines in the Explore family
  • The Cricut Maker comes in only three colors (rose, champagne and blue) while the Explore line of machines come in a variety of colors

Cricut Explore Air 2 vs Cricut Explore Air

Like all Cricut machines, the Explore Air can cut a variety of materials. Moreover, this machine is Bluetooth enabled and easy to use. It also features a convenient double tool holder.

On the other hand, the Cricut Explore Air 2 has all these features and so much more. In fact, it is practically an upgrade of the Explore Air.

Cricut Explore Air 2 vs Cricut Explore Air
Cricut Explore Air 2 vs Cricut Explore Air

Some of the differences between Cricut Explore Air and Air 2:

  • The Cricut Explore Air 2 comes with a fast mode that allows it to cut and write up to twice as fast as the Explore Air
  • The Explore Air 2 is much louder than the Explore Air

Cricut Explore One vs Cricut Explore Air

The Cricut Explore One is the most basic of Cricut cutting machines. It is a good machine for beginners as it is easy to use and cheap. Moreover, it can cut over 100 types of materials.

The Cricut Explore Air is the upgrade to the Explore One. On top of what the Explore One offers, it also comes with a double tool holder and built-in Bluetooth wireless technology. Apart from the extra features, there is truly no difference between the two machines

Other Cricut machines

Apart from cutting machines, Cricut also produces machines used for pressing, die cutting and weeding. These include the Cricut Easy Press, the Cuttlebug and the Bright Pad respectively. Just like the Cricut cutting machines, these ones are also highly efficient and easy to use.

What is the Best Cricut Machine to Buy?

As much as all the Cricut machines in this review are absolutely superb, each has a specialty; a special purpose and a group of crafters for which it is perfect.

Best Cricut Machine Combo: Cricut Maker, Cricut EasyPress 2, Cricut Bright Pad
Best Cricut Machine Combo: Cricut Maker, Cricut EasyPress 2, Cricut Bright Pad

For instance, the Cricut Maker is perfect for those looking for the ultimate electronic crafting machine. This may be business owners, professional sewers or experienced quilters. These are people who are always looking for the latest machine.

Top Pick
Cricut Maker 3
Cricut Maker 3 Best Cricut Machine For Craft Cutting
9.8 Outstanding

On the other hand, those who are searching for a machine that offers the best value for money should look into getting the Cricut Explore Air 2. While the Cricut Joy is a perfect companion to full-size Cricut cutting machines.

However, those who do a lot of iron on and mug printing are better off with the Easy Press 2 and Cricut Mug Press respectively.

Ultimately, you are not restricted to getting one of these machines. You can always go all-out and get a combination of the ones you love best. In fact, a great move would be to get the Cricut Maker, Easy Press 2, and Cricut Mug Press in one purchase.

So, which Cricut machine do you prefer? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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