7 Best Cricut Machine Models 2025 in the United States

The Cricut Explore 4 Smart Cutting Machine, particularly in the Engagement Plus Bundle, is a versatile tool for arts and crafts enthusiasts. It stands out with a range of features that make it suitable for various creative projects. One of its strengths is its compatibility with over 100 materials, including vinyl, iron-on HTV, and cardstock, making it a go-to for a diverse array of crafting needs.

The included EasyPress 3 Heat Press (9x9) adds to its value, providing professional-level heat-transfer results that are durable and long-lasting. This bundle also comes with essential tools and materials, such as pens, mats, and samplers, which are great for those just starting out or looking to expand their crafting toolkit. An additional advantage is its compatibility with the Cricut Design Space app, which is user-friendly and guides you through the process of selecting materials and tools, enhancing the user's experience. It supports iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac, making it accessible to a broad audience.

However, the machine is relatively heavy at 33 pounds, which might be a drawback for those with limited space or who need to move it frequently. Additionally, while the software is free, accessing some of the more advanced features and additional images may require a subscription, which could be a downside for budget-conscious users. In terms of cutting force and size, the Explore 4 performs well, but users looking for industrial-level cutting power might find it lacking. In summary, the Cricut Explore 4 Smart Cutting Machine is a robust option for hobbyists and crafters, offering a comprehensive bundle of tools and features that cater to a wide range of creative projects.

The Cricut Maker 4 Smart Cutting Machine in Seashell is a versatile tool for crafting enthusiasts, especially those passionate about precision and variety in their projects. One of its standout features is the ability to work with over 300 materials, from everyday vinyl and cardstock to more challenging materials like leather and matboard. This makes it a highly versatile option for those looking to explore diverse crafting techniques such as cutting, drawing, foiling, scoring, engraving, and debossing. The inclusion of the EasyPress 3 Heat Press in the bundle adds an extra dimension, allowing for professional heat-transfer results on various fabrics and materials, which is ideal for creating custom apparel and home décor items.

A key strength of the Maker 4 is its cutting force, which ensures clean and precise cuts across different materials. Coupled with its generous cutting size, it accommodates a wide range of project sizes, catering well to both hobbyists and small business owners. The machine's connectivity and software capabilities are bolstered by the Design Space App, offering a user-friendly interface for crafting designs and accessing digital content.

Potential users should be mindful of its 34.9-pound weight and considerable size, which could be cumbersome for those with limited workspace. Despite these spatial considerations, the machine's automatic operation mode streamlines the crafting process, reducing manual input and the risk of errors. The Cricut Maker 4 is best suited for serious crafters who value flexibility and precision, and who have the space to accommodate its size. The added tools and materials in the Engagement Plus Bundle make it an attractive package for anyone looking to dive deep into the world of crafting.

The Cricut Joy is a compact and beginner-friendly cutting machine that’s great for small DIY projects like decals, labels, and cards. Its active cutting area of about 46 square inches suits simple and quick crafts rather than large or complex designs. The machine offers Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to design and send projects wirelessly through the Cricut Joy app on mobile devices or computers with Bluetooth, although it doesn’t work with Chromebooks.

It supports Cricut’s own Smart Vinyl materials, which are easy to use and designed for precise cuts, but the cutting force and material compatibility are more limited compared to larger Cricut models, meaning it’s not ideal for thicker materials or heavy-duty crafting. One nice bonus is the included digital guide and starter kit with vinyl rolls and cutting mats, which helps beginners get started without needing extra purchases.

The machine’s small size makes it very portable and easy to store, but this also means it’s best suited for crafters who want convenience and simplicity over advanced features or large-scale projects. For those new to crafting or looking for a lightweight tool for everyday personalization, the Cricut Joy is a solid choice, though serious hobbyists or those needing more cutting power and bigger sizes might find it limiting.