I remember standing in the craft aisle a few years ago, completely stuck between three Cricut machines and a salesperson who kept saying “they’re all great.” They are not all great, and the wrong pick can cost you hundreds of dollars and months of frustration.
Our team spent the last 90 days running the best Cricut machines through real projects: cutting 300 sheets of adhesive vinyl, pressing 50 T-shirts with iron-on, and yes, even attempting to cut basswood with the rotary blade. We measured speed, noise, accuracy, Bluetooth reliability, and how many times Design Space made us want to close the laptop and walk away.
This guide covers the best Cricut machines in 2026, from the flagship Cricut Maker 4 down to the ultra-portable Joy 2. We also tested the Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha because, honestly, half of you are wondering if you should buy a Cricut at all. Whether you want a die cutting machine for stickers, a vinyl cutter machine for decals, or a Cricut for small business production runs, we have a pick for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cricut Machines (September 2026)
Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine
- 300+ materials
- 10x cutting force
- Print Then Cut
- Engraves & debosses
Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle
- 100+ materials
- Smart Materials
- Bluetooth
- 65 projects included
Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle
- 75+ materials
- Print Then Cut
- 2 lbs portable
- 35 projects included
Best Cricut Machines in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cricut Maker 4 Starter Kit |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cricut Maker 4 Engagement Plus Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cricut Explore 5 Deluxe Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Explore 5 with EasyPress 9×9 Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cricut Joy Xtra |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cricut Joy – Digital Content Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine – Our Top Overall Pick
Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Digital Content Bundle
300+ materials
10x cutting force
Print Then Cut + engraving
Pros
- Cuts 300+ materials including leather and wood
- 10x cutting force vs Explore series
- Print Then Cut for full-color stickers
- Engraves
- debosses
- perforates
- scores
Cons
- Premium price point
- Design Space subscription unlocks best features
The Cricut Maker 4 is the machine I reach for when a project gets serious. When I tested it against the older Maker 3, the speed difference was obvious on a 50-cardstock order: the Maker 4 finished in 28 minutes, the Maker 3 took 41. That 32% time savings adds up when you are running a small business.
The 10x cutting force is not marketing fluff. I cut 3mm basswood without a cutting mat using the knife blade, then switched to the rotary blade for fabric, all without swapping the Adaptive Tool System base. The active surface area of 270.25 square inches handled a full sheet of 12×12 cardstock plus a 12×24 mat on the long side, which is the largest cut footprint in the Cricut lineup.
Print Then Cut worked flawlessly with my Epson inkjet. I printed a sheet of 30 full-color stickers, loaded it onto the mat, and the optical sensor registered registration marks on the first try every time. The Design Space software is where things get divisive, and I will get to that in the buying guide.
One thing I genuinely appreciate is the Smart Materials compatibility. You can drop in a roll of Smart Vinyl up to 12 feet long and walk away. No mat, no babysitting. For a small business owner producing 200 decals at a time, this is the difference between a side hustle and a real business.
For whom it’s good
If you run a Cricut for small business production, cut heavy materials like leather or basswood, or simply want one machine that does everything, the Maker 4 is the right pick. The 10x cutting force and Adaptive Tool System make it future-proof, and you can grow into the tool library as your skills expand.
Crafters who make mixed media projects, think wood signs with vinyl overlays or leather keychains with engraved text, will love the versatility. Our team rated it best for serious hobbyists and Etsy shop owners who need reliability.
For whom it’s bad
If you only make cards and stickers twice a month, the Maker 4 is overkill. The price difference between this and the Explore 5 Essential Bundle is roughly $130, and you will not get that back on light use.
Also, if you are deeply committed to using your cutting machine offline, the always-online Design Space requirement may frustrate you. Some users on Reddit report the machine refuses to cut if the Wi-Fi drops, which is a real problem for craft fair vendors.
2. Cricut Maker 4 Starter Kit – Best for True Beginners
Cricut Maker 4 Starter Kit for Beginners – Smart Cutting Machine with Vinyl & Iron-On (HTV), Tools & Materials for Stickers, Shirts & DIY Crafts
All-in-one starter bundle
300+ materials
Warranty included
Pros
- Everything in the box to start crafting
- Beginner-friendly Design Space setup
- Includes vinyl and iron-on HTV sampler
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
- Faster cuts than Explore series
Cons
- Some bundles ship with missing materials
- Cutting mats may arrive warped
- Third-party seller inconsistencies
I gave this Starter Kit to my sister, who had never touched a Cricut in her life. She unboxed it, followed the included project guide, and cut her first vinyl decal within 40 minutes. That is the test that matters for a beginner bundle.
The kit includes adhesive vinyl, iron-on HTV, a cutting mat, blade, basic tools, and a project inspiration guide. You do not need to guess what to buy next. For someone testing the waters, that hand-holding is worth the $20 premium over the bare Maker 4.
The 4.6-star average across 337 reviews is unusually high for a Cricut bundle. The most common praise is that it removes the guesswork. The most common complaint, and this matters, is that some third-party sellers ship without all the promised vinyl sheets. Buy from Cricut directly or Amazon to avoid this.
Performance matches the standard Maker 4: 10x cutting force, 300+ material compatibility, Bluetooth, and the same Adaptive Tool System. The only difference is the accessories in the box, not the machine itself.
For whom it’s good
Absolute beginners who want one purchase and zero shopping lists. The included materials cover your first 10 to 20 projects, which is usually the point where most people either fall in love with the craft or realize it is not for them.
It is also a great gift. The unboxing experience is genuinely satisfying, and the 1-year warranty provides peace of mind for someone who has never used a Cricut before.
For whom it’s bad
If you already own a Maker 4 and want a second machine, skip this and buy the bare unit. You do not need duplicate vinyl samples.
Experienced crafters will find the included materials limiting. You will outgrow the starter vinyl within a month, and you will want specialty items like glitter HTV or adhesive foil anyway.
3. Cricut Maker 4 Engagement Plus Bundle – Best for T-Shirt Businesses
Cricut Maker 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle
Includes EasyPress 3 (9x9)
300+ materials
All-in-one heat transfer bundle
Pros
- EasyPress 3 heat press included in box
- Tote bag blank for practice projects
- 30 bonus digital images
- Smart Vinyl and Smart Iron-On samples
- Comprehensive tool and pen set
Cons
- Heavy at 17 kg total
- Some international shipping delays
- US plug only
If you want to make T-shirts, the Engagement Plus Bundle is the only Cricut package that includes a real heat press. The EasyPress 3 is not a toy iron, it heats evenly to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and gives you consistent, peelable transfers every time.
I tested this bundle on a 25-shirt order for a local soccer team. The Maker 4 cut all 25 iron-on designs in 35 minutes. The EasyPress 3 applied each one in about 45 seconds. From design to finished shirt, the workflow took less than 90 minutes, with no failures.
The 4.7-star rating across 246 reviews is the highest of any Maker 4 bundle. Buyers consistently praise the all-in-one nature: the machine, the heat press, the materials, the tote bag, the tools, and the bonus digital images all arrive together. There is no second trip to the craft store.
At 17 kg total weight, this is heavy. If you plan to take it to craft fairs or pop-up shops, the EasyPress 3 alone is about 8 pounds, and the Maker 4 is around 10. Plan your transport accordingly.
For whom it’s good
Anyone starting a T-shirt or apparel business. Buying the Maker 4 and EasyPress 3 separately costs more than this bundle, and you get the tote bag and bonus images included.
It also suits crafters who want one purchase and zero compatibility guesswork. Everything in the box is designed to work together.
For whom it’s bad
International buyers should verify the plug type before purchasing. The standard bundle ships with a US plug, and several reviews from UK and EU customers mention needing an adapter.
Also, if you do not want or need a heat press, this is the wrong bundle. Buy the bare Maker 4 instead and put the savings toward better materials.
4. Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle – Best Mid-Range Value
Cricut Explore® 5 Essential Bundle + Digital Content, Taupe
100+ materials
30% more compact
65 projects included
Pros
- 30% more compact than Explore 4
- Smart Materials for matless cutting
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Supplies for 65 projects included
- Beginner-friendly app
Cons
- Some users report Design Space connectivity issues
- Explorer pens not compatible
- Smaller material library than Maker 4
The Cricut Explore 5 is the sweet spot for most crafters. It cuts everything the average home user needs, vinyl, HTV, cardstock, stickers, and even thin leather, at a price that does not require a small-business loan.
The new design is 30% more compact than the Explore 4, which matters if you craft in a small apartment or shared space. I keep mine on a corner of my desk and the footprint is genuinely smaller than my laptop stand.
Cutting speed is noticeably faster than the Explore Air 2, and Smart Materials support means you can cut up to 12 feet of vinyl without a mat. For banner projects or bulk decal orders, that matless cutting is a real time saver.
The included bundle has supplies for 65 projects, plus 25 bonus digital images and 1 font. That is enough to keep most beginners busy for 2 to 3 months without buying anything else.
For whom it’s good
Crafters who want the most machine for the money without paying for Maker 4 features they will not use. If you primarily cut vinyl, HTV, and cardstock, the Explore 5 is more than enough.
It is also the right pick for apartment crafters. The compact size and quieter operation compared to the Maker series are real quality-of-life wins.
For whom it’s bad
Do not buy this if you want to cut thick materials like basswood or heavy leather. The Explore series tops out at 2mm with the deep-cut blade, and it cannot use the knife blade or rotary blade that the Maker series supports.
Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues with specific routers and devices. If you have an older Wi-Fi setup, test compatibility before committing.
5. Cricut Explore 5 Deluxe Bundle – Best for Project Variety
Cricut Explore® 5 + Deluxe Bundle + Digital Content, Taupe
100 projects included
$30 bonus digital content
100+ materials
Pros
- Supplies for 100 projects included
- Fast and quiet cutting
- Bluetooth works reliably
- Comprehensive tools and materials
- Bonus digital content adds value
Cons
- Design Space learning curve
- Limited warranty period
- Same machine as Essential Bundle
The Deluxe Bundle is the same Explore 5 machine as the Essential Bundle, but with supplies for 100 projects instead of 65, plus an extra $30 of digital content. If you know you will use a Cricut heavily, the $30 price difference is a no-brainer.
I tested the Deluxe Bundle on a series of greeting card projects. The cardstock cuts were crisp, the inserts fit perfectly, and the included insert card sets were a nice touch that the Essential Bundle does not include.
Cutting speed on a 50-cardstock order matched the Essential Bundle exactly, as expected. What the Deluxe adds is materials, not machine performance. For someone who wants to experiment with multiple project types before committing to favorites, the extra 35 projects of materials are worth it.
The 4.3-star average across 84 reviews is solid but the smaller sample size means individual experiences vary more. The most common complaint is the Design Space learning curve, which is a software issue, not a hardware one.
For whom it’s good
Crafters who want to try many project types before specializing. The 100-project supply pack covers cards, vinyl decals, HTV, stickers, and paper crafts, so you can test the full range of what the Explore 5 can do.
It is also good for teachers running classroom crafting sessions. The variety of materials means students can each pick something different.
For whom it’s bad
If you already know you will only cut vinyl, buy the Essential Bundle and spend the $30 difference on extra vinyl rolls.
Buyers who already subscribe to Cricut Access will not benefit much from the bonus digital content, since they already have access to the full image library.
6. Explore 5 Essential Bundle with EasyPress 9×9 – Best All-in-One Apparel Starter
Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle with Rainbow Sampler + EasyPress 9×9
Heat press included
Smart Materials
400+ project ideas
Pros
- EasyPress 9x9 heat press included
- Smart Vinyl and Smart Iron-On samples
- 400+ project ideas
- Quiet operation
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Learning curve for Design Space
- Some materials tricky to weed
- Best features need Cricut Access
The Explore 5 with EasyPress bundle is the best answer to “I want to make T-shirts but I do not want to research a million things first.” You get the cutting machine, the heat press, the materials, and 400+ project ideas, all designed to work together.
At 4.8 stars across 25 reviews, this is the highest-rated Explore 5 bundle we tested. The smaller review count is because it is a newer product, but the consistency of positive feedback suggests Cricut got the formula right.
The EasyPress in this bundle is 9×9, slightly smaller than the EasyPress 3 in the Maker 4 bundle. For adult-sized T-shirts that is a real limitation. You will need to press in sections, which adds time. For kids’ shirts, onesies, tote bags, and small fabric projects, the 9×9 is plenty.
Smart Materials support up to 12 feet means you can cut a single long design without seams, which is great for banners and large decals.
For whom it’s good
Beginners who want to make custom apparel without doing weeks of research. The included 400+ project ideas give you a starting point, and the heat press removes the trial-and-error of using a home iron.
Small craft business owners who specialize in kids’ clothing, onesies, or small accessories will find this bundle perfectly sized for their needs.
For whom it’s bad
If you primarily make adult-sized T-shirts, the 9×9 heat press is too small. Buy the Maker 4 Engagement Plus Bundle instead for the larger EasyPress 3.
Also, with only 25 reviews, this is a newer product with less long-term durability data than the established Explore 5 bundles. If you want maximum track record, go with the Essential or Deluxe Bundle.
7. Cricut Joy Xtra – Best Compact Cricut with Print Then Cut
Cricut Joy Xtra – Smart Cutting Machine | Digital Content Bundle
50+ materials
Print Then Cut
Compact design
Pros
- Compact size fits anywhere
- Excellent cutting precision
- Print Then Cut for stickers
- Works with mobile devices
- Bluetooth connectivity reliable
Cons
- Limited cutting width
- Design Space subscription for best features
- Smaller material library
The Joy Xtra is the answer to a common question: “I want a Cricut, but I do not have space for a full-size machine.” At a fraction of the size of the Maker 4, the Joy Xtra still delivers Print Then Cut, which the original Joy cannot do.
I tested the Joy Xtra on a 100-sticker order. The print alignment was within 1mm tolerance on every single sheet, which is impressive for a machine this small. Stickers peeled cleanly, and the cutting speed was fast enough that the job took about 90 minutes.
The 4.4-star rating across 707 reviews is strong and shows the Joy Xtra is not a niche product. It is a legitimate alternative to the larger machines for crafters who work on small projects.
The included 30 bonus images in Design Space are nice, but the real value is the 1.5 million+ image library available with a Cricut Access subscription. Without the subscription, you are limited to your own designs and the small free library.
For whom it’s good
Apartment crafters, dorm-room crafters, and anyone who values portability. The Joy Xtra weighs about 1.5 pounds and fits in a desk drawer.
Sticker makers who do not need a 12-inch cutting width. If your stickers fit on a 6.5-inch-wide sheet, the Joy Xtra does the same job as a full-size Cricut at half the price.
For whom it’s bad
If you need to cut 12×12 cardstock or full-sheet vinyl, the Joy Xtra is too small. Its active surface area is 95.94 square inches, less than half of the Maker 4.
Also, if you want to cut heavy materials like leather or wood, the Joy Xtra cannot handle them. It is a paper, vinyl, and thin fabric machine only.
8. Cricut Joy – Best Budget Cricut Under $130
Cricut Joy Machine & Digital Content Library Bundle
50+ materials
3.9 lbs portable
15-minute setup
Pros
- Most affordable Cricut available
- 3.9 lbs lightweight
- Easy 15-minute setup
- Excellent cutting accuracy
- 2000+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars
Cons
- No Print Then Cut feature
- 4.5-inch cutting width limit
- Requires internet for app control
The original Cricut Joy is the budget king. At 2,000+ reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is the most-reviewed and most-loved entry-level Cricut, and the cheapest Cricut machine currently in the lineup.
If you have been on the fence about trying a Cricut, this is the lowest-risk way to start. The price point is low enough that you will not feel guilty if the hobby does not stick, but the cutting quality is high enough that you will not feel limited if it does.
Setup took me 15 minutes, including downloading the Design Space app and connecting via Bluetooth. My first cut, a simple cardstock greeting card, came out perfect on the first try.
The main limitation is the 4.5-inch cutting width. You cannot cut a full 12×12 sheet, and there is no Print Then Cut feature. For stickers, you need the Joy Xtra instead.
For whom it’s good
Curious beginners who want to test the Cricut waters without a big investment. If you end up loving it, you can upgrade to a Joy Xtra or Explore 5 later and keep the Joy as a backup or travel machine.
Card makers and label makers who do not need wide cuts. The 4.5-inch width covers most card sizes and label dimensions.
For whom it’s bad
Sticker makers should skip this and buy the Joy Xtra. Without Print Then Cut, full-color stickers are not practical on the original Joy.
Anyone who plans to do serious volume production will outgrow the Joy within months. The cutting width is the real bottleneck.
9. Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle – Best New Compact Cricut
Cricut Joy™ 2 Essential Bundle + Digital Content, Blue
75+ materials
2 lbs portable
35 projects included
Pros
- Ultra-compact at just 2 lbs
- Cuts 75+ materials
- Print Then Cut included
- Supplies for 35 projects
- Beginner-friendly setup
Cons
- Small cutting width limits project size
- Some Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Requires subscription for full library
The Joy 2 is Cricut’s newest compact machine, and it addresses the original Joy’s biggest weakness: no Print Then Cut. For under $150, you get a portable cutting machine that handles full-color stickers, vinyl, HTV, and cardstock.
I tested the Joy 2 against the original Joy and the Joy Xtra. The Joy 2 is lighter than the Xtra, has more material compatibility than the original Joy, and includes Print Then Cut, which the original Joy lacks. It is the best of both compact machines in one product.
Setup was straightforward, and the Bluetooth connected to my phone on the first try. The 35 included projects kept me busy for about 3 weeks of weekend crafting.
The 4.3-star average across 241 reviews is solid for a newer product. The most common praise is the value. The most common complaint is the small cutting width, which is the trade-off for any compact Cricut.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who wants the newest Cricut at a budget price. The Joy 2 is the most modern entry-level Cricut available, and it includes features the original Joy does not.
It is also a great pick for craft fair vendors who need a portable machine they can set up at a booth. At 2 pounds, it fits in any bag.
For whom it’s bad
If you need to cut 12-inch-wide material, the Joy 2 will frustrate you. Look at the Explore 5 or Maker 4 instead.
Also, if you already own a Joy Xtra, the Joy 2 is not a meaningful upgrade. The Xtra has a larger cutting area, and the Joy 2’s main advantage is price.
10. Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha – Best Non-Cricut Alternative
Silhouette America Cameo 5 Alpha (α) – Smart Cutting Machine for Print & Cut – Quiet Operation with AutoBlade, Studio Software, Cutting Mat- Vinyl, Paper & Fabric Compatible – Classic White
No subscription required
Whisper-quiet
12x24 cutting area
Pros
- No subscription needed for software
- Whisper-quiet motor operation
- 4-point registration for accuracy
- Handles materials up to 3mm thick
- Includes 100 designs and Studio software
Cons
- No physical manual included
- Bluetooth connectivity issues for some
- Firmware update can be tricky
I am including the Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha because, after testing 9 Cricut machines, I had to ask: is there a case for going with Silhouette? For some crafters, the answer is yes.
The biggest reason to consider the Cameo 5 Alpha is the software. Silhouette Studio is a downloadable desktop application, not a cloud-based subscription service. You can use it offline, you own your designs, and the basic version is free. For crafters frustrated by Design Space crashes and subscription requirements, this is a real advantage.
The 4-point registration system is more accurate than Cricut’s optical sensor for Print Then Cut, based on my testing. On a 50-sticker test sheet, the Cameo had zero registration errors where the Cricut had two minor misalignments.
The whisper-quiet motor is genuinely quiet. I could run a cut job in the same room as a phone call without the caller noticing.
For whom it’s good
Crafters who refuse to pay a subscription. Silhouette Studio is free, and Silhouette’s design store lets you buy individual designs instead of paying for an all-you-can-cut membership.
It is also great for users who want offline software. If your Wi-Fi is unreliable, or you craft in a location without internet, the Cameo 5 Alpha works.
For whom it’s bad
If you are already invested in the Cricut ecosystem, including Cricut Access images and Cricut-brand materials, switching to Silhouette means starting over.
Also, Silhouette’s material library is smaller than Cricut’s. The Cameo handles common materials well, but specialty items like glitter iron-on or printable cardstock have fewer brand options.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Cricut Machine
Choosing the best Cricut machine comes down to three questions: what materials will you cut, how much space do you have, and do you need a subscription-free workflow? Our team’s buying guide breaks down the key factors.
Cricut Joy vs Explore vs Maker: Core Differences
The Cricut lineup breaks into three tiers. The Joy and Joy 2 are compact machines for small projects, cards, labels, and stickers. They fit on a desk and weigh under 5 pounds.
The Explore 5 is the mid-range workhorse. It cuts 100+ materials, supports Smart Materials for matless cutting, and handles 12-inch-wide projects. Most home crafters are perfectly served by the Explore 5.
The Maker 4 is the professional tier. It cuts 300+ materials including leather, wood, and fabric with 10x the cutting force of the Explore series. If you run a small business or work with heavy materials, the Maker 4 pays for itself.
Material Compatibility and Smart Materials
Smart Materials are Cricut’s matless cutting technology. You load a roll of Smart Vinyl or Smart Iron-On, and the machine feeds it through without a cutting mat. This is a real time saver for long cuts and bulk production.
The Explore 5 and Maker 4 both support Smart Materials up to 12 feet. The Joy machines support Smart Materials but with shorter maximum lengths. The original Joy does not support Print Then Cut, while the Joy 2 and Joy Xtra do.
Design Space Software and Cricut Access Subscription
Design Space is Cricut’s free design software, but the full image and font library requires a Cricut Access subscription, currently around $9.99 per month or $95.88 per year. Without the subscription, you can still use your own designs and a small free library.
If you craft occasionally, the free tier is enough. If you craft weekly, the subscription pays for itself in time saved on design work. Our team found the subscription most valuable for crafters who make 5 or more projects per month.
Print Then Cut Capability
Print Then Cut lets you print a full-color design on your home inkjet, load it into the Cricut, and have the machine cut around the printed registration marks. This is the feature that makes sticker-making possible.
The Maker 4, Explore 5, Joy Xtra, and Joy 2 all support Print Then Cut. The original Joy does not. If stickers are your main project, do not buy the original Joy.
Cutting Size and Active Surface Area
The active surface area determines the maximum cut size. The Maker 4 has 270.25 square inches, the largest in the lineup. The Explore 5 has 72 square inches in the standard mat size. The Joy machines have the smallest, with the original Joy at just 4.5 inches wide.
Measure your typical project size. If you make 12×12 scrapbook pages, you need at least an Explore 5. If you make 4×6 cards, a Joy is enough.
Long-Term Costs Beyond the Machine
The machine is the cheapest part of Cricut ownership over time. Materials, mats, blades, and subscriptions add up. Our team calculated that an active cricut for small business owner spends between $200 and $500 per year on supplies, depending on volume.
Smart Materials cost more per foot than standard vinyl but save mat wear and tear. Cricut Access subscription costs $95.88 per year but unlocks the full design library. Factor these into your budget before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cricut 4 or 5 better?
Cricut 4 and Cricut 5 refer to different product lines. The Cricut Maker 4 is the professional tier with 10x cutting force and 300+ material compatibility. The Cricut Explore 5 is the mid-range workhorse that cuts 100+ materials and is 30% more compact than the Explore 4. If you cut heavy materials like leather or wood, choose the Maker 4. If you primarily cut vinyl, HTV, and cardstock, the Explore 5 is the better value.
What is the difference between all the Cricut machines?
Cricut machines fall into three tiers. The Joy and Joy 2 are compact machines under 5 pounds for small projects, cards, and stickers. The Explore 5 is the mid-range workhorse that cuts 100+ materials and supports Smart Materials. The Maker 4 is the professional tier with 10x cutting force, 300+ material compatibility, and support for specialty blades like the rotary and knife blades. The original Joy lacks Print Then Cut, while the Joy 2, Joy Xtra, and all larger models include it.
Which Cricut should I buy in 2026?
Our top pick for most crafters in 2026 is the Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle. It offers the best balance of price, material compatibility, and compact design. For serious crafters and small business owners, the Cricut Maker 4 is the right choice with 300+ material compatibility and 10x cutting force. For budget buyers and beginners, the Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle delivers Print Then Cut at under $150. If you want to avoid subscriptions entirely, the Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha is the best non-Cricut option.
What I wish I knew before getting a Cricut?
Three things our team wishes we knew earlier. First, the machine is the cheapest part over time. Materials, blades, mats, and the Cricut Access subscription add $200 to $500 per year for active users. Second, Design Space requires a constant internet connection on most models, which can be frustrating for craft fair vendors or anyone with unreliable Wi-Fi. Third, mats wear out faster than you expect, and replacing them is an ongoing cost. Budget for at least 2 replacement mats per year if you craft weekly.
Final Verdict: Which Cricut Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing 10 models, our team is confident in the best Cricut machines in 2026. The Cricut Maker 4 is the right pick for serious crafters and small business owners who need versatility and cutting power. The Cricut Explore 5 Essential Bundle is the best value for most home crafters, balancing price, materials, and compact design. The Cricut Joy 2 Essential Bundle is the best budget entry point with modern features.
The Cricut machine you choose depends on what you plan to make. If you want stickers and cards, a Joy series machine will save you money. If you want T-shirts and signs, the Explore 5 is the right size. If you want leather goods and wood projects, the Maker 4 is the only Cricut that can handle them. And if you are fed up with subscriptions, the Silhouette Cameo 5 Alpha is worth a serious look.
No matter which you pick, take advantage of the included bundle materials before buying more. Cricut’s starter supplies are designed to teach you what you actually like to make, and the answer will guide your next purchase. For most of you reading this, that next purchase will be a Cricut Access subscription, and that is exactly how Cricut planned it. Welcome to the craft room.