Best Vinyl Cutters to Buy in 2024

Looking for a good vinyl cutter for your small business or home use?

You’ve come to the right place!

Best Vinyl Cutter Reviews

Best Vinyl Cutter Machines in 2024 – Quick Guide

In this vinyl cutter review, we will feature top-rated vinyl cutters in two categories: Vinyl Cutting Machines for Home Use/Beginners and Vinyl Cutter Plotters for Small Business to help you decide which vinyl cutting machine is best for your needs.

Take a quick look!

Best Vinyl Cutters for Beginners, Hobbyists and Home Use:

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Best Vinyl Cutters/Plotters for Small Business:

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Best Vinyl Cutters for Beginners 2024 – Reviews

If you enjoy crafts and arts at home or you are a beginner looking for a small craft cutter for personal use, then you probably need a vinyl cutting machine for home use.

This type of cutter is perfect for light craft cutting projects and small designs and is usually cheaper and small in size, so, they cannot work on larger media surfaces.

Check the review below to select the best vinyl cutting machine for home use.

Best Vinyl Cutters for Beginners
Easy to Use
Cricut Maker 3
  • Max cutting size: 11.7 in x 12 ft (29.7 cm x 3.6 m)
  • Cuts, writes, and scores 300+ popular craft materials
  • Bluetooth wireless technology
Best Value
USCutter MH 871
  • Max cutting size: 30.63 in (W) x 96 in (L)
  • Can cut a wide range of materials
  • Easy to use, good value
Best for Home
GCC Expert II LX
  • Max cutting size: 23.6 in (W) x 164 ft. (L)
  • Great for cutting Vinyl and Heat Transfer
  • Supports varieties of cutting and design programs
Versatile
Silhouette Cameo 4 PLUS
  • Max cutting size: 14.6 in (W) x 10 ft. (L)
  • Unique dual carriage with automatic tool-type detection
  • True mat-less cutting with Bluetooth compatibility
Under $300
Silhouette Cameo 4
  • Max cutting size: 12 in (W) x 10 ft. (L)
  • Up to 3x cutting speed vs. Cameo 3
  • Max cutting force up to 5 kg

Now, let’s get started with our detailed vinyl cutter reviews!

1. Cricut Maker 3 – Best Vinyl Cutter For Beginners

Best for: DIY crafts, hobbyists

Best vinyl cutter for crafts: Cricut Maker 3
Best vinyl cutter for crafts: Cricut Maker 3

This vinyl cutting machine from Cricut is the smartest, fastest and most powerful Cricut vinyl cutter I’ve been able to review as it boasts a lot of improvements over its predecessors.

This Cricut vinyl cutter can cut 300 and more materials including balsa, paper, vinyl, etc., with astounding precision and agility.

It can even cut delicate materials like fabrics and sewing patterns as well as tough materials (up to 2.4 mm thick) like basswood, leather, mat board while placing more creative possibilities than you can imagine at your fingertips, thanks to its max blade pressure of 350 grams.

The machine features a beautiful and portable desktop design with a storage cup for your blades and docking spot for your tablet or smartphone – that means it’ll help you save space and allow you to work in a small workspace.

Cricut Maker 3 - Best Cricut machine for vinyl
Cricut Maker 3 – Best Cricut machine for vinyl

It also features a wide and expandable range of tools that allow you to handle virtually any cutting, writing, scoring and decorative task you can imagine, little wonder why it is one of the best vinyl cutters for crafts on the market today.

Another great feature is its wireless Bluetooth technology and the Cricut Design Space software, a simple design that allows you to create and upload your designs.

The good thing about the app is that it supports different platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, and allows you to upload any design file format including SVGs and cut files, so you can achieve what you want without restrictions.

However, the software runs through the cloud site, which means you’ll need a good internet connection to operate and cut your designs.

Pros
  • Sleek and stylish design
  • Support different platforms such as Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
  • Support a wide variety of materials
  • Features a game-changing Sewing Pattern Library
  • Good value for money and supports all past and future Cricut tools

Cons
  • You must use the Cricut Design Space software which requires a fast, active internet connection

Materials

The Cricut Maker 3 vinyl cutter supports materials up to 3/32 of an inch (2.4 mm) thick and this include:

  • Fabric and textile materials (practically all types of fabric including cotton, chiffon, silk, canvas, and denim)
  • Paper
  • Vinyl (such as dry erase, window cling, stencil, metallic and heat transfer vinyl)
  • Leather
  • Matboard
  • Craft foam
  • Plastic material like acetate
  • Card stock
  • Reflections
  • Etch glass and metal jewelry
  • Balsa wood
  • Basswood
  • Magnet sheets
  • Aluminum sheets etc.

See full list of materials

Useful tips

  • Using the knife blade reduces the cutting speed; this blade is designed for cutting materials up to 2.4 mm thick.
  • Although thicker materials require a higher blade force, do not set the cutting depth to a high level, rather start with lower pressure and gradually increase it.
  • The machine supports only the Cricut Design Space software. However, you can create your design with any other design software and upload it to the machine’s design software since it supports virtually all design file formats.
Cricut Maker 3 Specifications
Max. Cutting Area11.7 in x 12 ft (29.7 cm x 3.6 m)
Max. Cutting Force350 g
Max. Media Thickness2.4 mm (3/32”) with Knife Blade
BluetoothYes
SoftwareCricut Design Space (cloud-based, online software)
Warranty1 year

Verdict

The Cricut Maker 3 is very impressive as it can cut a wide range of materials from thin to thick ones. The software is also convenient to use for every situation since it allows you to create your designs even from your smartphone and upload them irrespective of their file format.

Perhaps, its only downside is the software that uses a cloud site. Other than that, this machine is perhaps the best vinyl cutter for crafts that you’ll find on the market at its price point.

2. USCutter MH 871 – Best Value Vinyl Cutter For Home Use

Best for: hobbyist and people who are new to vinyl cutting (for cutting decals, wall words, sign letters, and more).

Best Overall
USCutter MH 871 Vinyl Cutter 34in Bundle
USCutter MH 871 Vinyl Cutter 34in Bundle Best Vinyl Cutter for Beginners
9.4 Outstanding

The USCutter vinyl cutter is one of the best entry-level vinyl cutters out there. It is a reasonably priced vinyl cutter yet able to compete with some high-end models and semi-commercial brands in terms of features, overall functionality, and performance.

It is equipped with a 34-inch blade that can cut a variety of materials including paper, craft paper, paint mask, cardstock, standard vinyl, and heat transfer vinyl.

This starter vinyl cutting machine has a max cutting size of 8 feet long and 30.63 inches wide with a cutting speed of 39 inches per second at a downforce of 350 grams. This bigger unit and speed means that it can handle bigger cutting tasks and deliver a lot of craft cutting without wasting your time.

The machine is easy to use. It comes with the basic edition of VinylMaster Cut software which has a user-friendly interface that allows even a beginner to design and print logos, lettering, pinstriping and handle other related craft cutting tasks like a pro.

USCutter MH 871 Vinyl Cutting Machine Review
USCutter MH 871 is compatible with most economical vinyl cutter blades

Aside from that, its software has all the essential features expected of a vinyl cutting software, and it is licensed for an unlimited number of users, which makes this machine great for remote team working and collaboration on a single craft cutting project.

Moreover, you can use this machine with a host of other software like SignBlaser, Sure Cut A Lot, and SCAL. You can also use its inbuilt vectorization tools on all major file formats, while image files are converted into a ready to cut format by its image trace feature.

Its blade holder is compatible with most economical vinyl cutter blades available and includes the spool function which saves time for complex jobs by allowing you to send multiple cutting tasks to the queue so that the cutter can sort it out by color.

However, it is suitable for simple projects and smaller runs and cannot contour cut or sustain its excellent cutting performance on longer, larger, or more complex jobs.

Also, it has material limitations and cannot handle materials like reflective, tints, laminate, and leather.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Saves time thanks to its dual ball-bearing media roller system and its spool function
  • Easy to use
  • 1-year warranty

Cons
  • Not suitable for larger and complex jobs
  • Only compatible with PC (not even with Mac)

Materials

The USCutter vinyl cutter MH 871 can work with:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Paint mask
  • Cardstock
  • Standard vinyl
  • Heat transfer vinyl

Cannot work with:

  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • Tints
  • Laminate
  • Leather
  • SandBlast Resist
  • Un-lined or un-backed media without using a carrier sheet
USCutter MH 871 Vinyl Cutter Specifications
Size34-in
Type of CommandDM-PL HP/GL automatic identification
Operational MethodRoller type
StandIncluded
Drive MotorStepper
Max. Cutting Speed39 in/s
Max. Cutting Size30.63 in (W) x 96 in (L)
Max. Cutting Force350 g
Contour CuttingNo
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityWindows
Included SoftwareVinylMaster Cut
Warranty1 year

Verdict

The USCutter MH 871 vinyl cutter works well and demonstrates great value for money with its precise and customizable cut. It is very easy to use little wonder why it is tagged as the best vinyl cutter for beginners.

It’s only when you start overloading this machine that you might get frustrated with its performance, so skip it if you know you need the cutter for longer and more complex tasks.

3. GCC Professional Expert II LX – High Quality Vinyl Cutter For Home Use

Best for: hobbyists and people who enjoy crafts and arts at home, small shops (for signage, decals, wall words, and more).

Best Vinyl Cutter For Home Use GCC Professional Expert II LX
Best Vinyl Cutter For Home Use GCC Professional Expert II LX

If you’re looking for the best home vinyl cutter that can handle the rigor of the jobs thrown at it at home or a small shop, then the GCC Expert II 24 LX vinyl cutter might be all you need.

This vinyl cutting machine is great for making quality craft cuts of both vinyl and heat transfer like Oracal 651 and Siser Easyweed. It can deliver a maximum downforce of 350 grams and can cut through a material up to 24-inch-wide with a maximum cutting speed of 705 mm per second (27.8 in/s).

The GCC vinyl cutter is very easy to use and supports a wide range of graphic software including Adobe illustrator, SignPal, GreatCut, Corel Draw, Sure Cut A Lot, and many more.

Although this unit does not have an LCD screen where you can view your settings, it comes with user-friendly Virtual LCD software that allows you to adjust the cutting force, offset and other settings from your computer.

Unlike the USCutter, the GCC Expert 24″ LX vinyl cutter can plot and perform precise contour cuts, thanks to its Advanced Automatic-Aligning System that detects registration marks on images that are digitally produced.

Another feature we liked about this vinyl cutter is its grooved cut-off tool and its 3-meter (9.84 feet) tracking ability that ensures quality output and reduces the wastage of materials.

We also liked its dual-port connectivity with serial ports and USB as it makes the cutter more flexible for data transmission. From my experience with this machine, we found it to have excellent technical support, which is very useful in case you run into some issues while operating the machine.

Pros
  • Can perform contour cuts (print and cut)
  • Good tracking ability
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Compatible with a wide range of design software

Cons
  • No LCD
  • No Bluetooth

Materials

The GCC Expert II 24 Inch LX vinyl cutter can cut:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Paint mask
  • Rhinestone templates
  • Cardstock
  • Standard vinyl
  • Heat transfer vinyl

Cannot work with:

  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • Laminate
  • Tints
  • SandBlast Resist
  • Leather
GCC Expert II 24-inch LX Specifications
Size24-in
Type of CommandHP-GL, HP-GL/2
Operational methodRoller type
StandNot Included
Drive MotorStepper
Max. Cutting Speed27.8 in/s
Max. Cutting Size23.6 in (W) x 164 feet (50 m)(L)
or 600 mm (W) x 50 m (L)
Max. Cutting Force350 g
Contour CuttingYes
Acceptable Material Thickness0.03 in (0.8 mm)
Tracking3 m (9,84 ft.)
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityMAC OS X 10.6 and above, and Windows 7 and above
Included SoftwareYes
Warranty1 year

Verdict

Overall, the GCC Expert II LX vinyl cutter is great for producing eye-catching graphics. It is the best home vinyl cutter that is ideal for hobbyists, beginners and small businesses due to its ease of use, support for varieties of cutting and design programs, and good tech support.

Also, its contour cutting feature and tracking ability make it a great value for money.

4. Silhouette Cameo 4 PLUS 15-inch Vinyl Cutting Machine

Best for: Hobbyists, DIYers and people who enjoy arts and crafts at home

Silhouette Cameo 4 Plus vinyl cutter for beginners
Silhouette Cameo 4 Plus vinyl cutter for beginners

Next on our list is the Cameo 4 Plus vinyl cutter from Silhouette America – a company that specializes in the creation of innovative, high-quality tools and machines that make crafting fun and easy. This Silhouette vinyl cutter that has been recognized by hobbyists, DIYers, and professional crafters due to its smart and easy-to-use features.

The Cameo 4 Plus comes with a unique dual carriage feature with an ultra-smart system that automatically detects the tool you’re using and adjust the blade settings for a precise cut.

This 15″ vinyl cutting machine can accommodate material up to 15 inches wide and make accurate cuts in vinyl, fabric, cardstock, and more. It stands apart from its predecessors with the new dual-motor system that gives it the ability to cut in two different ways.

It also features a whooping 5 kg pressure that gives it a lot more oomph to cut through thicker materials like a knife through butter. Although it comes with a 5″ cutting mat, it offers a true matless cutting that allows you to cut materials with backings or liners like vinyl, heat transfer, cardstock, and more without using the cutting mat.

The best part of the Cameo 4 Plus that I really like is its unparalleled speed and accuracy. It comes with a solenoid motor that gives it a smooth, fast, quiet, and accurate performance even when you’re working with intricate designs.

It is also 3x faster than its predecessors – the Cameo 3; this means it will save your time and help you complete projects faster so that you can focus on other important projects.

Silhouette Cameo 4 Plus vinyl cutting machine
Silhouette Cameo 4 Plus comes with built in roll feeder

The machine has an in-built 15″ roll feeder that makes cutting and loading rolled materials like vinyl and heat transfer as easy as a breeze. There’s also an in-built cross cutter on the back of the machine that allows you to make a clean straight edge cut on your heat transfer material or vinyl – a feature that helps to prevent wastage of materials.

It also features a backlit touch panel that is fast and responsive for easy control and accepts tools from older Silhouette cutters via the included tool adapters.

What’s more is the Print and Cut capability, PixScan, and USB compatibility, as well as the Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to cut out your designs wirelessly. This 15″ vinyl cutting machine is driven by Silhouette Studio – an easy-to-use software that offers limitless design options on Windows and Mac.

You can also create designs with Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW and send them directly to the machine via the Silhouette Connect plug-in. That means you’re free to skip the Silhouette Studio and choose the software you’re more experienced with.

Pros
  • Can cut vinyl and heat transfer without a cutting mat
  • Compatible with Bluetooth and popular design software
  • Fast and accurate performance
  • Good tracking ability

Cons
  • From our survey, users complained that it comes with no user manual

Materials

This Silhouette vinyl cutter supports materials up to 3 mm thick and this includes:

  • Fabric and textile materials (virtually all types of fabrics including cotton, chiffon, silk, canvas, and denim)
  • Paper
  • Vinyl (such as dry erase, window cling, stencil, metallic and heat transfer vinyl)
  • Leather
  • Matboard
  • Craft foam
  • Plastic material like acetate
  • Card stock
  • Reflections
  • Etch glass and metal jewelry
  • Balsa wood
  • Basswood
  • Magnet sheets
  • Aluminum sheets etc.

Useful Tips

  • The Cameo 4 Plus comes with no user’s manual. However, you can find the Cameo 4 user guide on the web and follow the instructions to operate your Cameo 4 Plus since they both share similar features and functions.
  • Silhouette Studio has a huge learning curve, but you can get tons of online tutorials to help perfect your skills.
Silhouette Cameo 4 Plus Specifications
Max. Cutting Size (with a cutting mat)14.6 in. x 15 in.
(37.1 cm x 38.1 cm)
Max. Cutting Size (without a cutting mat)14.6 in. x 10 ft.
(37.1 cm x 3 m)
Max. Cutting Force5 kg
Max. Media Thickness3 mm
BluetoothYes
SoftwareSilhouette Studio. Also support Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW with Silhouette Connect plug-in
Warranty1 year

Verdict

The Cameo 4 Plus has a lot of innovative and easy-to-use features that make it an awesome large vinyl cutter for hobbyists. With its cutting pressure, speed, accuracy, easy-to-use software, and the ability to cut through thick materials like a knife through butter, we can boldly say that this Silhouette vinyl cutter is the best vinyl cutter for beginners on our list.

5. Silhouette Cameo 4 – Best Vinyl Cutter Under $300

Best for: DIY crafts

Best Vinyl Cutter Under $300: Silhouette Cameo 4
Best Vinyl Cutter Under $300: Silhouette Cameo 4

If you’re looking for the best budget vinyl cutter, then the Silhouette Cameo 4 might be all you need. Just like the Cricut vinyl cutter, the Cameo vinyl cutter sits on the desk like a sleek, gorgeous printer and can cut and draw at the same time on a wide variety of materials.

It also has Bluetooth functionality for sending and receiving a job from your PC, Android, and iOS devices; this made it the first Silhouette vinyl cutter with wireless capabilities.

This Silhouette vinyl cutter can cut different materials with various thicknesses (up to 3 mm) thanks to its AutoBlade feature that helps to adjust the blade depth to match your cut job materials.

It has a max cutting size of 12” by 24” with a cutting mat and can cut longer materials (up to 10 ft.) which is a plus so that you can make banners, decals, and vinyl signs without being restricted to small designs as you would with the Cricut Maker.

Apart from that, the long cutting ability will reduce the chance of mistakes and save you the effort and time of loading multiple sheets of media into the cutter.

Best Vinyl Cutter For The Money: Silhouette Cameo 4
Best Vinyl Cutter For The Money: Silhouette Cameo 4

It comes with a backlit touch panel to help you access the cutter’s settings and Silhouette Studio (version 4.3.341 or higher) – powerful, intuitive design software that allows you to create, edit, purchase, and import uncountable designs with the need for an active internet connection.

The software is compatible with Mac OS X 10.10 and higher, and Windows 8.1 and higher.

Pros
  • Powerful design software with wireless functionality
  • Support a wide variety of materials
  • AutoBlade feature reduces trial and error
  • Affordable

Cons
  • The software requires the purchase of add-ons to enhance its features

Materials

The Silhouette Cameo 4 vinyl cutter supports materials up to 3 mm thick and this include:

  • Fabric and textile materials (with the right iron-on interfacing)
  • Paper
  • Vinyl (such as dry erase, stencil, metallic and heat transfer vinyl)
  • Leather
  • Reflective
  • Matboard
  • Craft foam
  • Card stock
  • Balsa wood
  • Basswood
  • Magnet sheets
  • Aluminum sheets etc.

Useful tips

  • To achieve the best result, use slower speeds for intricate designs or thicker materials. Always begin every cut job at a slower speed and gradually increase it until you get a speed that gives you a clean cut
  • Attempt the cutting of thicker materials with a lower blade pressure and gradually increase the pressure to achieve a clean cut
  • You can save jobs from your PC to a USB device and cut or sketch directly from your Cameo vinyl cutter without needing a computer
  • This Cameo vinyl cutter comes with built-in roll feeder and built-in crosscutter that allows you to separate the finished cut job from the rest of the media without damaging or wasting the material
  • Just like the Cricut Maker, the Silhouette vinyl cutter can etch glass, pet tags, and metal like jewelry
  • You can adjust the rollers so that you can work on different media size; you can even slide them out of your way to avoid damaging or denting delicate materials like foil or craft foam.
  • Silhouette’s design software has a huge learning curve. However, you will find tons of tutorials online to help you.
Silhouette CAMEO 4 Specifications
Max. Cutting Area12 in. x 24 in. with a cutting mat
12 in. x 10 ft. with lined media
Max. Cutting ForceCarriage 1: 210 gf
Carriage 2: 5 kg
Max. Media Thickness3 mm
BluetoothYes
SoftwareSilhouette Studio (desktop software)
Warranty1 year

Verdict

Overall, the Silhouette Cameo 4 is a great vinyl cutting machine. Its wireless functionality, AutoBlade feature that eliminates the error of forgetting to reset the cutting depth and its robust and powerful design software makes it one of the most versatile vinyl cutters out there.

If you’re looking for the best vinyl cutter under $300, then this Silhouette cutter is for you. You’ll hardly find a vinyl cutter with better features at that price point.

Above are the top 5 affordable and easy-to-use vinyl cutters for home use.

How about when…

  • You want to upgrade your Silhouette machine to a professional-grade cutter plotter
  • You want to start a small home-based vinyl cutting business
  • Your vinyl cutting start-up is growing and you need a faster vinyl cutter to fulfill the orders

If you are asking yourself these questions and looking for the best commercial vinyl cutter, check the review of the products below to select the right one for you.

Best Vinyl Cutters For Small Business 2024 – Reviews

Looking to upgrade from a home vinyl cutter to a more commercial cutter and work with larger graphics or just looking for the best vinyl cutter for your sign shop or workshop?

Then you’ll need a vinyl cutter targeted towards the professionals and small businesses which has a lot more oomph than what you’ll get from the ones above.

Top Vinyl Cutters Plotters for Small Business
Best Overall
Graphtec CE7000 Series
  • Available in different sizes: 15, 24, 50-inch
  • Scores, plots, and contour cut precisely and accurately
  • Fast and quiet operation
Affordable
GCC Puma IV
  • Max cutting size: 23.6 in (W) x 164 ft (L)
  • Smooth, accurate and fast operation
  • Compatible with a wide range of design software
Best Budget
USCutter Titan 2
  • Max cutting size: 28 in (W) x 300 in (L)
  • Easy to use, fast and quiet operation
  • Good price, comes with stand and catch basket
Most Advanced
Graphtec FC9000 Series
  • Available in 4 sizes: 30″, 42″, 54″, 64″
  • Super fast cutting speed, cut the most challenging medias
  • Durable, professional build quality
Top Quality
Roland CAMM-1 GR Series
  • Available in 2 sizes: 54″ and 64″
  • Best for creating pop-out decals and packaging prototypes
  • Powerful cutting motor, overlap cutting for thich materials

Generally, the vinyl cutter plotters for small businesses have higher speeds, higher precision, stronger motor, and can perform cleaner cuts. They are costlier than the vinyl cutters that are designed for home use and can cut a larger variety of materials, work with complex and intricate designs, and support larger cutting surfaces.

The following are top-rated vinyl cutters/plotters highly recommended for small to medium-sized businesses.

1 – Graphtec CE7000 Series – Best Vinyl Cutter Plotter For Home Businesses

Best for: Small businesses and start-ups as well as for personal and professional use

Great Value
Graphtec CE7000-60 PLUS Vinyl Cutter Plotter
Graphtec CE7000-60 PLUS Vinyl Cutter Plotter Best Vinyl Cutter for Small Business
9.8 Outstanding

First on our list is Graphtec CE7000-60 PLUS, one of the Graphtec CE7000 series plotters, a high-quality innovation that not only stands as an upgrade of the Graphtec CE6000 series but also showcases Graphtec’s craftsmanship and strength.

This 24″ professional vinyl cutting machine is super versatile as it supports a wide range of materials. Apart from that, it can work long shifts and cut materials up to a length of 164 feet – this makes it suitable for heavy-duty users and people who want to start a vinyl cutting business.

The CE7000-60 PLUS comes with ARMS 8.0 – an upgraded Advanced Registration Mark Sensing System that utilizes the DataLink Barcode system that saves time and minimizes error for continuous cutting or multiple cut and print applications.

Its DataLink Barcode feature achieves this by detecting barcode-linked cutting data from your USB flash disk or PC, opening the right cut file, making accurate cut conditions settings, and starting the automatic cutting process. Also, the ARMS 8.0 comes with the XY Segment Area Compensation feature to compensate for the measured error, enhance the accuracy of print and cut jobs, and ensure optimum productivity.

The machine has no Bluetooth wireless connectivity like the CE6000 series, but the newly added Ethernet connectivity is efficient for transferring your cut data, especially in a workshop, business, or office setting.

Its new USB Thumb Drive Connectivity is also efficient and easy to use, so you don’t need a computer to upload jobs and cut them out. What’s more is the 450 grams of pressure and the digital servo motor that gives it the fast, silent, and accurate cutting ability.

The Graphtec CE7000-60 PLUS is intuitive, works with both Windows and Mac computers, and comes with a backlit 3.7″ LCD that supports ten different languages thus, making viewing menus and adjusting settings a breeze.

It comes with Graphtec Pro Studio – a bonus and extremely powerful design from Graphtec that allows you to edit or create designs to complete your cutting or plotting task easily. It also includes the Cutting Master 4 with plug-ins that allow users to import graphic designs from Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw without having to convert the file.

Pros
  • A versatile machine with built-in convenient tool storage
  • Powerful and easy to use software
  • Supports USB thumb drive and ethernet connectivity
  • ARMS 8.0 with barcode scanning feature for faster and more accurate operation

Cons
  • No support for wireless connectivity

Materials

Just like the CE6000 series, the Graphtec CE7000 Series vinyl cutters plotters can cut materials up to 0.25 mm thick, and this includes:

  • Vinyl
  • heat transfer
  • Reflective vinyl (excluding high-intensity reflective film)
  • Twill
  • PVC
  • Paint mask
  • Packaging
  • Sandblast resist stencils
  • Cut etchings
  • Rhinestone stencil templates
  • Masking media

Not suitable for:

  • Monument sandblast-resist rubber
  • Prismatic reflective
Graphtec PLUS CE7000 Series Specifications
Size15-in, 24-in, 50-in
Type of CommandGP-GL/HP-GL
Operational methodRoller type
StandOptional
Drive MotorDigital servo drive system
Max. Cutting Speed40 in/s
Max. Cutting Length164 ft (50 m)
Max. Cutting Force450 g
Contour CuttingAuto
Buffer Memory2 MB
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityO/S: Mac OSX 10.6 - 10.11 - 10.12 - 10.15 and Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7
Warranty2 years

Verdict

When it comes to selecting the best vinyl cutter for small businesses, the CE7000-60 PLUS Vinyl Cutter Plotter from Graphtec cannot be ignored.

Apart from being an upgrade of the Graphtec CE6000-60 cutter, its excellent features made it a high-quality professional vinyl cutting machine for people who are looking to start a vinyl cutting business or take their business to a greater height.

Download the Graphtec CE7000 User Manual

2 – GCC Puma IV Professional Vinyl Cutter For Startups

Best for: hobbyists, startups, and small businesses

GCC Puma IV Professional Elite Vinyl Plotter Cutter
GCC Puma IV Professional Elite Vinyl Plotter Cutter

If you’re looking for a reliable machine to make vinyl decals especially for your small craft business or startup, then the GCC Puma P4-60 vinyl cutter might be all you need.

This machine comes with a cutting width of 24 inches and has another variant (the GCC Puma IV LX version) that has a cutting width of 52 inches (targeted towards serious business owners and large signage companies).

The machine features a precision electro-mechanical design and comes with a high-speed digital servo motor to ensure a smooth, accurate, fast, and quiet operation.

The GCC Puma IV vinyl and heat transfer cutter is one of the most versatile machines out there; it can plot and cut a wide variety of materials without having to change its mechanical configuration – a feature small businesses will find beneficial.

It also has good tracking ability, a downforce of 500 grams, and a cutting speed of 40.2 inches/sec.; that means it won’t waste your time and material when you’re working on a long project or dealing a with a large order.

The machine can perform section cuts when you’re dealing with a large or long project; it even comes with the Automatic Aligning System (AAS II) which detects the registration marks to ensure precise contour cutting.

GCC Puma IV Cutter and Plotter Review
GCC Puma IV Cutter and Plotter

The Puma IV cutter features a user-friendly control panel with 14 control buttons and a large 2-line x 20-digit LCD for simple navigation, settings adjustment, and easy operation.

The machine allows you to store four preset settings for frequently used materials – a feature that is helpful for business owners who deal with large orders.

Another feature we liked about this machine is its triple port connectivity with Ethernet, serial, and USB ports, which allows for greater flexibility and data transmission. The Ethernet connection allows the machine to be operated by multiple PCs while the USB port allows you to transfer cut jobs from your PC to the machine quickly.

However, it lacks wireless Bluetooth connectivity and does not come with a stand and the catch basket, so you’ll have to buy that separately.

This GCC vinyl cutter supports a wide variety of software such as GreatCut (which includes a plug-in for AutoCAD, Corel Draw, Freehand and Adobe Illustrator), and Sure Cut A Lot (which has an app for iOS users and allows you to import PDFs and SVGs).

The machine also supports SignPal 12, FlexiSign 12, and Sure Cut A Lot Pro for efficient design creation; all the software supported by the machine is easy to use and is compatible with MAC OS X 10.6 and above and Windows 7 and above.

Pros
  • Good tracking ability with contour cutting feature
  • Easy to use
  • Precise cutting with silent operation
  • Compatible with a wide range of design software

Cons
  • No Bluetooth

Materials

The GCC Puma IV vinyl and heat transfer cutter can cut materials up to 0.8 mm thick, which include:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Paint mask
  • Rhinestone templates
  • Cardstock
  • Standard vinyl
  • Heat transfer vinyl

Cannot work with:

  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • SandBlast Resist
  • Leather
GCC Puma IV Specifications
Size24-in
Type of CommandHP-GL, HP-GL/2
Operational methodRoller type
StandNot Included
Drive MotorDC Servo Control
Max. Cutting Speed40.2 in/s (1,020 mm/s)
Max. Cutting Width600mm (23.6 in.)
Max. Cutting Force500 g
Contour CuttingYes
Memory Size32 MB/16 MB (when using AAS)
Acceptable Media Thickness0.8 mm (0.03 in.)
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityWindows 7 and above and MAC OS X 10.6 and above
Included SoftwareYes
Warranty1 year

Verdict

The GCC Puma IV 24" Professional Vinyl Cutter is a great machine for producing attention-grabbing graphics, and it is perfect for small vinyl business and startups.

It can complete a variety of applications with great efficiency to satisfy your needs in the sign-making industry. It supports a wide range of design software and has a lot of features that can take your business to the next level.

Download Puma IV catalog here

3 – USCutter Titan 2 – Best Budget Vinyl Cutter/Plotter For Small Businesses

Best for: serious crafters, micro-enterprises and small business

Affordable vinyl cutter for home business: USCutter Titan 2
Affordable vinyl cutter for home business: USCutter Titan 2

This Titan 2 vinyl cutter plotter from USCutter is undoubtedly one of the best affordable vinyl cutters you can choose to start a home-based vinyl cutting business.

It has a maximum cutting width of 28 inches, a cutting length of 300 inches and a maximum pressure of 750 g; this gives it the ability required by small businesses for cutting various materials.

The machine features durable construction that can withstand rigorous use and comes with a digital servo motor that makes it more accurate, quieter, faster, and able to cut through thicker materials.

The machine has a maximum cutting speed of 37 in/sec which is enough to complete large jobs in a timely way; it also comes with a backlit LCD and illuminated buttons for easy operation even in a poorly lit environment.

We love its spool function that allows you to send multiple jobs to the queue and sort its cutting operation by color without switching between rolls of vinyl with different colors.

This Titan 2 vinyl cutter/plotter can contour cut and comes with a stand and catch basket, which makes it one of the best affordable professional cutters available on the market.

The machine comes with the basic edition of VinylMaster Cut software which allows you to create, edit, and customize your design before you send it to the machine.

It also works with Sure Cut A Lot Pro software that is compatible with Mac and allows you to create your designs and import various file formats, including PDFs and SVGs.

The machine supports USB and serial port connectivity to transfer cut data from your PC to the machine. However, it does not support wireless connectivity; the basic software that comes with it is also not compatible with Mac, so you’ll have to switch to compatible software if you’re using Mac OSX.

Pros
  • Vectorization tool for easy image cutting and tracing
  • Fast and quiet operation
  • Durable aluminum alloy construction
  • Come with stand and catch basket

Cons
  • No Bluetooth
  • VinylMaster Cut is not compatible with Mac

Materials

The USCutter Titan vinyl cutter can cut:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Laminate
  • Paint mask
  • Rhinestone templates
  • Cardstock
  • Standard vinyl
  • Sandblast Mask (to 36 mils)
  • Heat transfer vinyl
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Window Film (such as 8500 Translucent and Oracal 8300 Transparent vinyl)

Cannot work with:

  • High-Intensity Reflective (23 mil+)
  • High static window tint

USCutter Titan 2 28-inch Specifications
Size28-in
Type of CommandHP-GL
Operational methodRoller type
StandIncluded
Drive MotorDigital servo control
Max. Cutting Speed37 in/s
Max. Cutting Size28 in (W) x 300 in (L)
Max. Cutting Force750 g
Contour CuttingYes - Manual
Memory512K/4MB
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityWindows, Mac OSX
Included SoftwareYes
Warranty2 years

Verdict

This Titan 2 vinyl cutter plotter is easy enough for beginners to operate but has the capabilities to meet the demands of professional users. Its reasonable price point and the ability to plot or cut different materials with great accuracy, as well as its fast and adjustable cutting speed, make it the best affordable vinyl cutter for home businesses and startups.

4 – Graphtec FC9000 Series Pro – Advanced Vinyl Plotters For Commercial Uses

Best for: Growing businesses, professional crafters, wide-format signage, automotive, and apparel industries.

The FC9000 Series Pro Cutting Plotters is Graphtec’s most versatile and advanced roll feed vinyl cutter printer that is respected for its reliable, high-precision capabilities and easy to use features.

As an upgrade of the Graphtec FC8600 series, it has most of the FC8600 series durable and technically-advanced features with some other new and exciting features; this makes it the best professional vinyl cutter on our list.

It features a newly developed take-up system that automatically detects media with the equipped infrared sensor and reloads them to the machine to boost production efficiency. However, this feature is optional and only available for the FC9000-160 and FC9000-140 models.

This Graphtec vinyl cutter plotter is available in 4 different width options (30″, 42″, 54″, and 64″), so you can select the one with the cutting width that suits your application.

It also features an upgraded Advanced Registration Mark Sensing System that uses Graphtec’s Datalink barcode generation system to automatically load and process your jobs, thus saving time and minimizing production errors. The take-up system automatically wounds media in either direction and works with the Datalink barcode feature to ensure accurate tracking of multiple jobs per roll of media, up to 65′ long.

This vinyl cutter printer utilizes the digital servo drive, little wonder why it is silent, able to perform precise perforated and contour cuts, and achieve a high cutting speed of 58.5 inches per second.

It provides an adjustable 600g cutting force (the highest in the industry) and a premium cutting head that improves the cutting efficiency and quality of both rigid and delicate materials. It also features a floor stand and dual media catch basket, which comes in handy for repetitive, dust-free jobs as well as lengthy or continuous operations.

The machine comes with a backlit 3.7-inch LCD that allows you to monitor, customize, and adjust your work in real-time and in any lighting condition. It supports USB and Ethernet connectivity for data transmission and improved flexibility.

What’s more, is the new, improved search algorithm and white LED sensor that helps to accurately read the printed registration marks from any printer onto different types of materials.

The Graphtec FC9000 vinyl cutter plotter is compatible with Mac and Windows computers and comes with easy-to-use software like the Graphtec Studio for Mac, Windows Driver, Cutting Master 4, and Graphtec Pro Studio.

However, it does not support Bluetooth and wireless connectivity, so you may have to look elsewhere if wireless connectivity is important to you.

Pros
  • Fast and accurate cutting plotter with excellent cutting force
  • Superior tracking with the ability to run long jobs
  • Durable construction with customizable user settings
  • Come with ARM 8.0, a stand and dual catch baskets

Cons
  • No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Pricey

Materials

The Graphtec FC9000 series vinyl cutter printer accepts media up to 0.04in. thick, these include:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Laminate
  • Paint mask
  • Rhinestone templates
  • Cardstock
  • Cardboard
  • Corrugated e-flute
  • Magnet
  • Rubber
  • Standard vinyl
  • Sandblast Mask
  • Heat transfer vinyl
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Diamond grade film
  • Window Film (such as 8500 Translucent and Oracal 8300 Transparent vinyl)
Graphtec FC9000 Series Specifications
Size30-in, 42-in, 54-in, 64-in
Type of CommandGP-GL, HP-GL
Operational methodGrit rolling type
StandIncluded
Drive MotorDigital servo drive
Max. Cutting Speed4 ft 10.46 in/s (1485 mm/s) at 45° direction
Max. Cutting Length164 ft (50 m)
Max. Cutting Force600 g
Contour CuttingYes
Buffer Memory2 MB
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityMac OSX 10.6 - 10.11 - 10.12 - 10.15 and Windows 10 / 8.1 / 7
Warranty2 years

Useful tips

  • Always operate the machine with Graphtec specified media and conditions and use the catch basket for long length cutting.
  • You need to connect to the internet to register or activate the Graphtec software when starting it for the first time.
  • Graphtec does not support the use of its software or drivers with an obsolete operating system that is no longer supported by its developer. So, it is preferable to use the supported or updated OS.
Verdict

The Graphtec FC9000 Series Pro Cutting Plotters is not only a perfect solution for those looking for the best professional vinyl cutter for small to large scale production. It is highly recommended for its reliability, unique superior quality, speed, and durability.

5 – Roland CAMM-1 GR Series Large Format Cutter For Professionals

Best for: Small to large businesses, including signage companies and automotive industries

Roland CAMM-1 GR Series Large Format Cutter
Roland CAMM-1 GR Series Large Format Cutter

If you’re looking for the most powerful cutter on the market today or a reliable large format vinyl cutter for graphics business, then the Roland CAMM-1 GR Series might be perfect for you.

This Roland vinyl cutter features a 54″ cutting width and has another variant (the 64″), which makes them the ideal option for serious business owners, automobiles and large signage companies. Just like other versatile heavy-duty cutters on our list, this Roland vinyl cutter can plot, cut a wide variety of materials, and contour cut graphic workflow efficiently.

This vinyl cutting machine features the Roland Quadralign™ optical registration system that detects and reads crop or registration marks on your printed media. That means you can combine it with your large format printer for accurate and efficient contour cutting. It features an LCD control panel that allows you to view, adjust, or customize your cut settings and gives you total control over the machine.

The machine comes with a USB port that allows you to work without a PC and an Ethernet port that allows you to connect the cutter to a network for a streamlined workflow.

The digital servo motor drive and the adjustable 600 grams mean the machine can cut through both thin and thick materials with a great deal of accuracy and speed without making a loud noise. The tool’s overcut function (1 mm tangential emulation) helps to ensure cleaner cuts, sharp edges and that the corners are easy to weed.

What’s more is the handle, storage trays, media basket, and the 58.5 in/s cutting speed that allows you to efficiently complete large or multiple cutting jobs within a few minutes.

This machine comes with the Roland CutStudio software – a powerful and easy to use design software that allows you to quickly and easily create your cutting designs. This software is compatible with both Mac and Windows computers and includes plug-ins that enable you to import designs from Corel Draw and Adobe Illustrator.

Pros
  • Fast and accurate with excellent cutting force
  • Warranty is extendable up to 3 years
  • Durable construction
  • Customizable user settings with easy to use software

Cons
  • No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Pricey

Materials

The Roland CAMM-1 GR Series vinyl cutter can cut:

  • Paper
  • Craft paper
  • Laminate
  • Paint mask
  • Rhinestone templates
  • Cardstock
  • Cardboard
  • Corrugated e-flute
  • Magnet
  • Rubber
  • Standard vinyl
  • Sandblast Mask
  • Heat transfer vinyl
  • Low-Intensity Reflective
  • High-Intensity Reflective
  • Diamond grade film
  • Window Film (such as 8500 Translucent and Oracal 8300 Transparent vinyl)
Roland CAMM-1 GR Series Specifications
Size54-in (GR-540) and 64-in (GR-640)
Operational methodMedia-movement method
Drive MotorDigital servo drive
Max. Cutting Speed58.5 inches per second
Max. Cutting Length984.3 in (25 m)
Max. Cutting Force600 g
Contour CuttingYes
BluetoothNo
OS CompatibilityWindows 7, 8, 8.1,10 and Mac OS
Warranty1-year warranty, extendable to 3 years when you register the machine within 60 days of purchase.

Verdict

The Roland CAMM-1 GR Series vinyl cutter is arguably the most powerful cutter for small businesses out there. Its durability, speed, accuracy, support for many types of media, and large cutting area made it the best choice for professionals, graphics businesses, signage, labels, and automotive industries.

The Most Reliable Vinyl Cutter Machine Brands 

Here are the top-rated vinyl cutter brands on the market:

Roland

Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter
Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter

Roland DGA Corporation is an American-based sales, distribution, and marketing arm of Roland DG Corporation of Hamamatsu, Japan, the world’s number one leader in the 3D modeling, engraving, photography, UV, vehicle graphics, fine art, graphic arts, and sign industries.

Roland DG was established in 1981 and has become a worldwide leader in the provision of a wide variety of innovative products including wide-format inkjet printers, vinyl cutters/plotters, engravers, milling devices, 3D scanners, and thermal transfer cutters/printers.

Roland DG products blazed trails for the entire industry to earn the company a reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability. Their line of vinyl plotting/cutting machines (like the CAMM-1 GR series, GS-24 Desktop cutter and STIKA Desktop Cutter) offers the fastest and most precise contour cutting technology for crisp, eye-catching results.

Graphtec

Graphtec Plus CE6000-120 48 Inch Professional Vinyl Cutter
Graphtec Plus CE6000-120 48 Inch Professional Vinyl Cutter

Graphtec corporation has been on the leading edge of measuring, plotting, and cutting solutions for more than six decades. It was established in 1949, developed its first X-Y plotter in 1961 and today offers a wide range of input devices including scanners and digitizers, and computer output devices like, inkjet printers, direct imaging plotters, thermal-transfer printers, thermal printers and cutting plotters for apparel and sign industries.

Graphtec is one of the first to implement cutting technology in its vinyl cutting machines and is recognized for its best-selling line of roll feed, flatbed and desktop vinyl cutters and plot cutters. Graphtec vinyl cutters are well-known for their legendary quality and durability.

The company acknowledges and understands its position as a world leader in measuring and cutting device technology as well as what is at stake anytime you buy one of its products so; it remains committed to improving its product’s performance, features, competitive strengths, and drives for excellence.

GCC

GCC Professional Expert II LX Vinyl Cutter 24 Inch
GCC Professional Expert II LX Vinyl Cutter 24 Inch

GCC is an international manufacturing company with a wide range of quality products such as inkjet printers, laser cutters, laser markers, laser engravers, and cutting plotters for various applications including apparel, gift, advertising, and signage industries.

It was founded in 1989 and has remained committed to pursuing the goal of providing its customers with the best performance attainable in technologies, solutions, and services to meet their needs.

GCC is not only a leading equipment manufacturer; it is also a service provider and is well known for its unsurpassed and uncompromising quality. Each of its products (especially its line of vinyl cutters) goes through strict quality control with advanced testing and measuring techniques. This award-winning brand offers a full range of superior quality, cutting plotters to satisfy your various needs.

USCutter

USCutter Table Titan 3-15" Craft Vinyl Cutter Review
USCutter Table Titan 3-15″ Craft Vinyl Cutter

Established in 2005, USCutter started by debuting affordable, high-quality vinyl cutting machines to the market. Ever since then, it has been recognized for value, developed its product line, and has introduced craft cutting to thousands of hobbyists, startups, and existing businesses.

Today, USCutter offers the best vinyl cutter for the money. It has the deepest and largest selection of vinyl cutting machines anywhere in the industry as well as a variety of software, tools, and vinyl to make custom apparel, and signs among other products you can produce with a vinyl cutter.

Cricut

Cricut is another top American brand that specializes in the provision of a range of innovative products, including cutting plotters, infusible ink, and the materials and accessories required for a perfect design and craft cutting experience.

Cricut brand is not only passionate about the creation of astounding products that make its customers happy; it is also committed to providing its customers with the best service and remarkable craft cutting experience.

Silhouette

Silhouette is a producer of craft and art products as well as the Silhouette desktop vinyl cutters and continues to invent products and technologies to provide creative people everywhere with the fewest restrictions for crafting, designing and cutting.

Silhouette has introduced a lot of revolutionary products to the market such as Silhouette Mint™, the Silhouette Curio™, the Silhouette Portrait™, Silhouette CAMEO®, and its industry-leading software Mint Studio™ and Silhouette Studio.

Brother

Back in 1908, Brother started as a family-run business with sewing machines as its very first specialism. Today Brother has become a fantastic brand with a wide range of quality and innovative products such as sewing and embroidery machines, printers, scanners, fax machines, and vinyl cutting machines for home and commercial applications.

Brother vinyl cutters (Brother ScanNCut machine) are an incredible innovation in craft cutting machines. However, we did not review the Brother ScanNCut machine, that is because we found this machine is not the best choice for users regarding vinyl cutting (compared with the products reviewed above).

Vinyl Cutter Recommendations 2024

Reliable, cheap vinyl cutter machines for starters:

Featured-rich vinyl cutters for crafters:

Affordable vinyl cutters for small home businesses:

Best quality vinyl cutters/plotters for businesses:

A vinyl cutting machine will help to save time, create and reproduce your craft and designs more accurately, simplify complex craft projects, and improve your productivity by transforming your design and craft workflow. However, you need to select the right vinyl cutter, especially one that is designed to meet your business or personal needs to enjoy the full benefits of owning one.

Luckily, this article has revealed some of the best vinyl cutters plotters on the market and their features as well as their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the right one for your needs. So, consider your options, grab the one that meets your unique needs, and come back with your testimony.

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