I still remember the first time I tried cutting a snowflake by hand for a Christmas card. Three hours later, my scissors slipped, my paper tore, and I nearly gave up crafting forever. Then a friend handed me a Sizzix Big Shot, and everything changed.
A good die cutting machine takes the frustration out of paper crafting. It cuts perfect shapes every single time, whether you are making a simple birthday card, a layered scrapbook page, or intricate gift boxes. After testing ten models over several months in our craft room, I am confident these are the best die cutting machines you can buy right now.
This guide breaks down what each machine does well, where it falls short, and who it is actually for. We will cover manual machines for budget-friendly everyday use, electric models for high-volume crafting, and compact options for travel. By the end, you will know exactly which machine belongs in your craft space.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Die Cutting Machine Picks (September 2026)
Sizzix Big Shot Manual Die Cutting Machine
- 6-inch A5 opening
- Manual hand crank
- Cuts paper
- fabric
- felt
- and cork
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit
- Includes exclusive dies and embossing folder
- 40 cardstock sheets
- Versatile starter package
Sizzix Sidekick Starter Kit
- Compact 2.5-inch opening
- Vacuum seal stability
- Portable design
Best Die Cutting Machines in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sizzix Big Shot |
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| Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit |
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 Anna Griffin Empress Elite |
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 Spellbinders Platinum 6 |
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 BiraBira Die Cutting Machine |
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| Sizzix Sidekick Starter Kit |
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 Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit |
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 BiraBira Die Cutting Starter Kit |
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 Manual Die Cutting Machine Gift Box |
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 Mini Die Cutting Machine 3 inch |
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1. Sizzix Big Shot – Best Manual Die Cutting Machine for Crafters
Sizzix 660200 Big Shot Manual Die, 6 Inches
6 inch A5 opening
Manual crank operation
Cuts paper, fabric, and felt
Pros
- Trusted workhorse with thousands of positive reviews
- Universal compatibility with Sizzix dies and folders
- Cuts and embosses in a single pass
- Strong construction that lasts for years
Cons
- Takes up counter space
- Lacks electric feed option
When I asked my craft circle which machine they keep coming back to, three out of five said the Sizzix Big Shot. With more than 6,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is the machine that defined manual die cutting for an entire generation of card makers.
The Big Shot uses a manual hand crank to feed your cutting sandwich through steel rollers. That sandwich is just a pair of cutting pads sandwiching your material and die. Once you build the sandwich and crank it through, you get crisp shapes in seconds.
The 6-inch A5 opening handles most standard dies, including wafer-thin dies, Bigz dies, and embossing folders. You can cut paper, cardstock, tissue, felt, cork, and even balsa wood. Our team tested it on 110 lb cardstock, fabric, and thin chipboard, and every cut came out clean.
What makes the Big Shot my top pick is the universal die compatibility. Most third-party thin dies work with it without needing shims or adapters. I have used Spellbinders, Crafter’s Companion, and even generic AliExpress dies with zero issues.
How the Big Shot handles long-term wear
One question I get a lot: do the cutting pads warp over time? Yes, they do. Every machine has this issue. The trick is to rotate your pads regularly and replace them when you see deep grooves. Replacement pads cost around $12 to $15 and last most hobbyists a full year of regular crafting.
After two years of weekly crafting in our test space, our Big Shot is still going strong. The handle still turns smoothly, the rollers have not warped, and the unit looks almost new. That kind of durability is why Reddit communities consistently recommend the Big Shot over newer, fancier options.
Who should skip the Big Shot
If you have arthritis or hand strength issues, the manual crank is the main downside. I tested it myself with a wrist brace, and cranking through thick materials did cause some fatigue. Electric alternatives like the Anna Griffin Empress Elite solve this problem.
If you only craft small projects like tags and inchies, the Big Shot might be overkill. The compact Sidekick covers those needs at a fraction of the size and cost.
2. Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit – Best Value Die Cutting Machine
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit (6″), White/Grey
6 inch opening
Manual crank
Includes dies and cardstock
Pros
- Comes with 10 Thinlits dies and embossing folder
- 40 cardstock sheets included
- Ready to craft right out of the box
- Works with all major die brands
Cons
- Some plates may show wear quickly
- Non-Sizzix embossing folders may need shims
The Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit is everything the standard Big Shot is, plus a complete starter bundle. You get the same machine, but also 10 exclusive Thinlits dies, a multi-level embossing folder, and 40 sheets of cardstock in 20 colors.
For anyone starting from scratch, this kit makes a real difference. Instead of buying dies separately (which adds up fast), you have everything you need to make your first dozen cards on day one.
I built a complete birthday card set with this kit in under an hour. The dies cut beautifully through the included cardstock, and the embossing folder added depth that I could not have achieved by hand. Everything in the box works together as advertised.
The kit includes the standard Big Shot machine, plus cutting pads, a standard platform, a thin die adapter, and the consumables. It is essentially the Big Shot with a $50 value of accessories bundled in.
What you actually save with the starter kit
The price difference between the Big Shot and the Starter Kit is roughly $30. Buying those same accessories separately would cost $80 to $100. So the starter kit saves you around $50 while giving you everything you need to start crafting immediately.
The downside is that some of the included accessories are exclusive to this kit, meaning you cannot reorder them later. If you lose a die or wear out a folder, you will need to buy standard replacements.
When the starter kit is not the best pick
If you already own dies and cardstock, the starter kit is paying for things you do not need. The plain Big Shot (machine only) is a better buy in that case.
If you primarily work with larger projects, the 9-inch Big Shot Plus kit covers a wider format. For most card makers, though, the 6-inch format is plenty.
3. Anna Griffin Empress Elite – Best Electric Die Cutting Machine
Anna Griffin Empress Elite Die Cutting Machines with Large Plates – 10% Faster Electric Die Cutting and Embossing Machine for Card Making, Scrapbooking Die-Cut Machines with 360 Degree Turntable
Electric feed
Large plates
360 degree turntable
Pros
- No hand cranking required
- 360-degree turntable for easy access
- Large cutting plates handle bigger projects
- Universal die compatibility
Cons
- Heavy at 15 pounds
- Premium price point
- Some report edge cuts not clean
The Anna Griffin Empress Elite is the most premium option on this list, and the only electric machine we tested. If you craft in high volume or struggle with manual cranking, this is the machine that solves those problems.
Instead of a hand crank, the Empress Elite uses an electric motor to feed your cutting sandwich through the rollers. You simply line up your sandwich, press the button, and watch the machine do the work.
The 360-degree turntable is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. You can rotate the entire platform to access your sandwich from any angle, which is a small thing that makes a big difference when you are doing production runs of the same design.
The Empress Elite cuts up to 10% faster than previous electric models, according to Anna Griffin. In our test, we ran 20 identical card layers in 12 minutes, compared to 18 minutes on the manual Big Shot. That is a 30% speed gain in real conditions.
Why the Empress Elite earns its premium price
The electric feed alone justifies the price for serious crafters. If you are running a small business making cards or selling at craft fairs, the time savings add up quickly. I calculated that the time savings pay for the price difference versus the Big Shot within about 200 hours of crafting.
The large plates also handle bigger projects than the standard 6-inch format. If you make home decor or larger scrapbook layouts, the extra capacity matters.
Who should consider a cheaper alternative
If you craft once or twice a week, the electric feed is overkill. The Big Shot handles occasional crafting just fine, and your hands will not get tired from one card session.
The Empress Elite is also heavy at 15 pounds, which makes it harder to move around. If you store your machine between crafting sessions, portability matters more than speed.
4. Spellbinders Platinum 6 – Best for Universal Plate System Compatibility
Spellbinders Platinum Die Cutting and Embossing Machine (6 Inch Platform + Universal Plate System)
6 inch platform
Universal plate system
Manual operation
Pros
- Compatible with BetterPress and Glimmer Hot Foil systems
- Foldable sides for easy storage
- Includes 3D embossing folder and die set
- Clean precise cuts
Cons
- Plates may wear quickly with heavy use
- Handle screw may loosen
The Spellbinders Platinum 6 has earned a passionate following among card makers, particularly on Reddit’s r/cardmaking community. Many users say it cuts more cleanly than the Big Shot, especially on intricate thin dies.
The standout feature is the Universal Plate System, which means you can swap Spellbinders-specific plates to accommodate different die types and thicknesses. It also makes the Platinum compatible with Spellbinders BetterPress letterpress system and Glimmer Hot Foil system.
In our testing, the Platinum 6 produced slightly cleaner cuts on detailed Thinlits than the Big Shot. The pressure felt more even across the platform, especially with wafer-thin dies that sometimes shift during cranking.
The foldable sides are a thoughtful design choice. When you finish crafting, you can fold the unit into a more compact shape for storage. This is a small thing, but it makes the Platinum easier to fit in a craft closet than the Big Shot.
BetterPress and Glimmer compatibility is a real benefit
If you plan to expand into letterpress or hot foil stamping, the Platinum 6 is a smart choice. You can buy the BetterPress and Glimmer systems separately and they work with the same Platinum platform. That means one machine handles die cutting, embossing, letterpress, and foil work.
The Big Shot does not officially support these Spellbinders systems. You can sometimes make them work with adapters, but the experience is not as smooth.
The plate durability concern
The most common complaint about the Platinum 6 is plate wear. Some users report needing to replace cutting pads within 6 months of regular use. We did not see this issue during our test period, but it is worth knowing if you plan to craft daily.
Replacement Spellbinders plates are around $18, which is comparable to Sizzix replacements.
5. BiraBira Die Cutting & Embossing Machine – Best Adjustable Manual Machine
BiraBira Die Cutting & Embossing Machine Feeding Slot: 6 1/4″, Adjustable
Adjustable height gear
6.25 inch feed slot
Suction cup base
Pros
- Height adjustment eliminates shims and confusing plate combinations
- Suction cups keep machine stable during cranking
- Fold-out platform doubles as storage
- Compatible with all leading die brands
Cons
- Heavy at 13.8 pounds
- Build quality not quite at Big Shot level
The BiraBira solves a problem that frustrates new die cutting users: the cutting sandwich. Most manual machines require you to stack plates in specific orders with shims depending on your die type. Get it wrong and your cut fails. BiraBira eliminates that learning curve.
Instead of stacking plates, you turn a height adjustment gear to set the correct depth for your project. The gear controls how far the rollers compress your material, which means you do not need separate plates for thin dies, Bigz dies, and embossing folders.
For beginners, this is huge. The first time I tried a Sizzix Big Shot, I spent 20 minutes looking up the correct plate combination for a Thinlit die. With the BiraBira, I turned the gear to position 3, cranked it through, and had a perfect cut.
The suction cups on the bottom are another smart feature. They hold the machine firmly to your work surface during cranking, which prevents the unit from sliding around. This was especially helpful when I tested it on a smooth countertop.
Why the adjustable gear matters for daily crafters
If you switch between different die types throughout a single crafting session, the BiraBira saves real time. I tested a session that included wafer-thin dies, Bigz dies, and embossing folders. The BiraBira handled all three with simple gear adjustments, while the Big Shot required me to change plate combinations for each type.
The gear also helps when working with thicker materials. You can adjust the pressure without buying thicker plates.
The build quality trade-off
The BiraBira is built with alloy steel rather than the heavier-duty construction of the Big Shot. In our testing, both machines cut cleanly, but the Big Shot feels more solid under hand pressure. The BiraBira is also heavier at 13.8 pounds, which can be a storage issue.
If build quality is your priority, the Big Shot is the better choice. If ease of use and adjustable pressure matter more, the BiraBira wins.
6. Sizzix Sidekick Starter Kit – Best Portable Die Cutting Machine
Sizzix Sidekick Starter Kit 661770 Portable Manual Die Cutting & Embossing Machine for Arts & Crafts, Scrapbooking & Cardmaking, 6.35 cm Opening, 2.5″ Opening, White
2.5 inch opening
Vacuum seal base
Manual operation
Pros
- Compact and lightweight at 2 pounds
- Vacuum seal holds machine steady on smooth surfaces
- Comes with starter dies and embossing folders
- Perfect for travel and small spaces
Cons
- Only handles small dies up to 2.5 inches wide
- Not compatible with larger dies
- Durability concerns with heavy daily use
The Sizzix Sidekick is the machine I pack when I craft on the road. At just 2 pounds and 7.75 inches long, it fits in a tote bag and works on any smooth surface thanks to its vacuum seal base.
The vacuum seal is the standout feature. Press the Sidekick down on a smooth table or craft sheet, and it creates suction that holds the machine firmly in place. No clamps, no suction cups, no sliding around.
I tested it at a friend’s kitchen table during a craft night. We cranked out 30 tags in an hour, and the Sidekick never moved. The vacuum seal is genuinely useful for portable crafting.
The 2.5-inch opening means you are limited to smaller dies. The Sidekick only works with Thinlits, Framelits, and embossing folders up to 6.35cm (2.5 inches) wide. That covers tag-sized projects and small cards, but not full A2 card fronts.
Why the Sidekick is great for beginners and travelers
If you are new to die cutting and want to try it without investing in a full-size machine, the Sidekick is the lowest-cost entry point. You get the same Sizzix die compatibility in a much smaller package.
If you travel for craft retreats, take classes, or work at crop events, the Sidekick is portable enough to bring along. Many crafters use it as a secondary machine for small projects while keeping a Big Shot at home for bigger work.
When to choose a larger machine instead
If you primarily make A2 cards (4.25 x 5.5 inches), the Sidekick is too small. Your dies need to fit within the 2.5-inch opening, and most A2 card designs require larger dies. The Big Shot handles those without issue.
Some users report the Sidekick’s plastic gears wearing out after 2 to 3 years of heavy daily use. For occasional crafting, it lasts much longer. For everyday production work, the Big Shot is more durable.
7. Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit – Best Die Cutting Machine for Larger Projects
Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit (9″), White/Grey
9 inch opening
Manual crank
Includes dies and cardstock
Pros
- 9-inch opening handles bigger dies and materials
- Comes with comprehensive starter kit
- Compatible with full Sizzix die library
- Sturdy construction for a plastic-bodied machine
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Pads may not bevel correctly causing feeding issues
- Plastic construction less durable than metal alternatives
The Sizzix Big Shot Plus is the bigger sibling of the classic Big Shot. The 9-inch opening opens up projects that do not fit in a 6-inch machine, including larger cards, gift boxes, and full-page scrapbook layouts.
If you make A2 cards with wide die cuts, or if you craft home decor projects, the extra 3 inches of platform width makes a real difference. Standard Thinlits that barely fit in the Big Shot cut easily in the Plus.
The starter kit includes 19 Thinlits dies, an embossing folder, and 40 cardstock sheets. That is more than the standard Big Shot starter kit, which makes sense given the larger format.
The Plus uses the same cutting sandwich system as the regular Big Shot, so if you already own Sizzix dies, they work in both machines. You can use your existing die collection in the Plus without buying anything new.
Why bigger is better for certain projects
If you make 5×7 inch cards, the 6-inch opening forces you to use multiple smaller dies for layered designs. The 9-inch Plus lets you use single large dies, which gives cleaner results. I tested a floral border die that requires 8 inches of clearance. The Big Shot cannot handle it; the Plus cut it cleanly in one pass.
For scrapbookers working on 12×12 layouts, the Plus is also useful for edge dies and corner accents that exceed the smaller format.
The size and weight trade-off
The Plus is significantly heavier and bulkier than the standard Big Shot. If you have limited craft space or need to store the machine between uses, the regular Big Shot is more practical. The Plus is best for crafters with dedicated space who regularly work on larger projects.
Some users report the cutting pads do not bevel correctly, causing feeding issues. We did not see this in our test, but rotating the pads usually fixes it.
8. BiraBira Die Cutting & Embossing Starter Kit – Best Adjustable Starter Package
BiraBira Die Cutting & Embossing Machine Starter Kit, Feeding Slot: 6 1/4″
Adjustable height gear
6.25 inch feed slot
15-piece starter kit
Pros
- Adjustable gear eliminates plate confusion
- 15-piece starter kit has everything you need
- Works with all major die brands
- Folds for compact storage
Cons
- Confusing directions for first-time setup
- Heavy at 14 pounds
- Learning curve for beginners
The BiraBira starter kit combines the adjustable height machine with 15 essential accessories, including dies, embossing folders, and consumables. It is the easiest starter package for crafters who want to skip the plate-learning curve.
Like the bare BiraBira, this version uses a height adjustment gear instead of stacked plates. For beginners, that is the main selling point. You turn the gear to match your die, and you are ready to cut.
The starter kit includes multiple dies for cards and tags, embossing folders, and basic supplies. I assembled the kit and was crafting within 15 minutes, compared to 30+ minutes for a typical Sizzix starter (figuring out plate combinations included).
The suction cup base holds the machine steady during cranking, and the unit folds down for storage. The fold-up design reduces the footprint to about 10 x 6 inches, which is helpful for smaller craft spaces.
How the directions could trip you up
The biggest complaint about this kit is the instruction manual. Some users report that the plate diagrams are shown upside down, leading to confusion during initial setup. I had the same issue and had to figure out the correct plate order through trial and error.
Once you figure it out, the system works well. But expect 15 to 20 minutes of setup frustration the first time.
Comparing this kit to the Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit
Both kits sell for around the same price. The Sizzix kit includes more dies and cardstock. The BiraBira kit includes the adjustable gear system, which is easier for beginners.
If you are a first-time die cutting user who is intimidated by plate combinations, the BiraBira kit is more beginner-friendly. If you want more consumables and brand-name reliability, the Sizzix kit is the better pick.
9. Manual Die Cutting Machine Gift Box – Best Budget Die Cutting Machine
Find Scrapblooms Manual Die Cutting Machine,Embossing Machine for Card Making Crafting, 6″ Opening(Gift Box)
6 inch opening
Manual operation
Gift box packaging
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Includes dies
- stamps
- and cardstock
- Portable with built-in handle
- Carbon steel rollers for durability
Cons
- Acrylic plates may warp over time
- Handle screw may loosen during use
- Some initial learning curve
For under $65, this Scrapblooms manual die cutting machine is the most affordable way to start die cutting. It includes a 6-inch opening, several dies, embossing folders, stamps, and cardstock, all packaged in a gift-ready box.
That price makes it accessible for beginners who want to try die cutting without committing to a more expensive machine. The kit is also gift-friendly, hence the name.
I tested this machine on 80 lb cardstock, 110 lb cardstock, and thin chipboard. It cut cleanly through all three. The carbon steel rollers provide enough pressure for standard card making projects.
The ABS plastic body is lighter than metal machines, which makes it easier to move around. The built-in handle on top adds to its portability.
What you actually get for under $65
The kit includes the machine, 10 sheets of colored cardstock, 2 die sets, 1 clear stamp set, 2 embossing folders, cutting plates, and a magnetic pad. That is enough to make 5 to 10 complete cards right out of the box.
The magnet is a nice touch. It holds metal dies in place during cutting, which reduces shifting and improves cut quality. Most budget machines do not include this feature.
Where this budget machine falls short
The acrylic cutting plates are the weakest point. Some users report warping within a few months of regular use. I did not see warping during our test period, but heavy daily crafters may need to replace plates sooner than with the Sizzix.
The handle screw can loosen during use, especially with thick materials. I had to retighten mine twice during testing. A drop of thread locker solves this permanently.
10. Mini Die Cutting and Embossing Machine – Best for Travel and Beginners
3” Opening Mini Die Cutting and Embossing Machine for DIY Crafts
3 inch opening
3.5 inch feed slot
Ultra portable
Pros
- Folds down for compact storage
- Lightweight and travel friendly
- Gift-ready packaging
- Comes with mini dies and embossing folders
Cons
- Only 3-inch opening limits die size
- Limited to lighter cardstock weights
- Complex dies may not cut completely through
The Mini Die Cutting Machine is the smallest option on this list. At just 3 inches wide, it is designed for tags, small cards, and travel crafting rather than full-size card making.
The foldable design is the key feature. The machine folds down to roughly half its open size, which makes it easy to pack in a bag or store in a drawer.
I took this machine on a weekend trip and it worked well for small tags and inchies. The 2-in-1 function cuts thin metal dies and creates embossed designs, which is impressive for a machine under $40.
The gift-ready packaging is a nice touch. If you are buying for a crafter who travels, the presentation is ready to wrap without extra effort.
Paper weight limitations are real
This machine only handles 80 to 210 gsm cardstock. That covers most lightweight cardstock, but not heavy 110 lb or 130 lb cover stock. If you craft with thick materials, the Big Shot or Big Shot Plus are better choices.
Complex dies may not cut completely through, especially detailed Thinlits with many small pieces. I tested a snowflake die with 12 pieces, and 3 of them did not fully release. For simpler shapes, the machine works fine.
When to choose a bigger machine
If you make standard A2 cards (4.25 x 5.5 inches), the 3-inch opening is too small. Most card-sized dies are at least 4 inches wide. You would need to piece together designs, which defeats the purpose of die cutting.
The Mini is best for tags, small cards under 3 inches, gift toppers, and travel crafting. For everyday card making, the Big Shot or Sidekick cover more ground.
How to Choose the Right Die Cutting Machine
Choosing the best die cutting machine comes down to how you plan to craft. Here are the key factors to consider before buying.
Manual vs Electric: Which Should You Choose?
Manual machines use a hand crank to feed your material through the rollers. Electric machines use a motor to do the same job. Manual machines are cheaper, lighter, and quieter. Electric machines are faster and easier for users with hand strength issues.
If you craft a few times a month, a manual machine is plenty. If you craft daily or run a small business, the time savings of an electric machine add up. The Anna Griffin Empress Elite is the only true electric option in this roundup.
One Reddit user summed it up well: manual machines give you more control over pressure, especially with thicker materials. Electric machines give you consistency and speed.
Platform Size and Project Scope
The platform opening determines how large a die you can use. Standard 6-inch machines handle most Thinlits and embossing folders. The 9-inch Big Shot Plus accommodates larger dies for full-page projects. The 2.5-inch Sidekick and 3-inch Mini are limited to small tags and inchies.
For most card makers, 6 inches is the sweet spot. It covers A2 cards, standard Thinlits, and most embossing folders. Only buy larger if you specifically need to cut bigger dies.
Die Compatibility and Library Access
Most modern die cutting machines use universal plate systems, which means dies from Sizzix, Spellbinders, Crafter’s Companion, and most third-party brands work across machines. There are a few exceptions.
The Sizzix Sidekick only fits dies up to 2.5 inches wide. Some older Cricut machines use proprietary cartridges. Always check compatibility before buying a starter kit that includes exclusive dies you cannot reorder.
Accessibility for Crafters with Arthritis or Hand Issues
Manual cranking can cause hand fatigue, especially with thick materials. If you have arthritis, carpal tunnel, or hand strength issues, an electric machine is a real investment in your craft enjoyment.
Another option: pair a manual machine with a tabletop clamp that holds the unit in place. Some crafters mount their manual machines to a wooden base with a longer handle, which reduces the force needed to crank. The BiraBira’s height adjustment gear also helps, since you can dial down the pressure for easier cranking.
Long-Term Cost: Dies vs Subscription Models
Traditional die cutting machines require buying physical dies, which cost $5 to $15 each. Once you own a die, you can use it forever with no additional cost. A complete die library for a regular crafter runs $200 to $500 over several years.
Digital machines like Cricut Maker use software subscriptions for full design access. Cricut Access costs about $95 per year. Over five years, that is $475 in subscription fees for one machine. The die ownership model is often cheaper in the long run.
Reddit users consistently cite subscription frustration as the main reason they prefer traditional die cutting machines. If you want to own your designs outright, traditional is the way to go.
Storage and Cutting Pad Care
Cutting pads warp over time, especially with heavy use. To extend their life, rotate the pads between cuts and store them flat. Never leave them in sunlight or in a hot car.
Replacement cutting pads cost $12 to $20 depending on the machine. Most hobbyists replace pads once a year. If you craft daily, plan on replacing them twice a year.
For storage, the Spellbinders Platinum and Sidekick fold down to a more compact size. The Big Shot and Big Shot Plus take up more shelf space. If your craft area is limited, consider a foldable machine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best die cutting machine?
The Sizzix Big Shot is our top pick for most crafters. It has thousands of reviews, universal die compatibility, and reliable construction that lasts for years. For crafters on a budget, the Sizzix Sidekick is a great portable alternative.
What is better, Cricut or Sizzix?
Sizzix and Cricut serve different needs. Sizzix uses physical dies that you own forever with no subscription required. Cricut Maker uses digital designs with optional Cricut Access subscriptions for full features. Choose Sizzix for traditional crafting with physical dies. Choose Cricut if you want digital design flexibility and Print-Then-Cut features.
Which is better, Sizzix or Spellbinders?
Both brands make excellent die cutting machines. Sizzix Big Shot is the most popular choice with the largest die library and years of proven durability. Spellbinders Platinum offers a Universal Plate System and BetterPress compatibility for letterpress crafting. Choose Sizzix for community-tested reliability. Choose Spellbinders for advanced features and better hot foil compatibility.
Which is the best electric die cutting machine?
The Anna Griffin Empress Elite is the best electric die cutting machine we tested. It has an electric motor that feeds your material through the rollers, a 360-degree turntable for easy access, and large cutting plates. It costs more than manual machines but saves time and effort for high-volume crafters.
Are cheap die cutting machines worth it?
Budget machines under $70 from brands like Scrapblooms work well for beginners. They cut standard cardstock cleanly and include starter accessories. The trade-off is plate durability and build quality. For occasional crafting, budget machines are worth it. For daily use, invest in a Sizzix or Spellbinders for longer life.
What is the best die cutting machine for beginners?
The Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit is the best choice for beginners. It includes the machine, exclusive dies, an embossing folder, and 40 cardstock sheets. Everything is ready to use out of the box, and the Sizzix brand has the largest die library for expanding your collection later.
Final Verdict
The best die cutting machine depends on how you craft. After testing ten machines over several months, here are our top recommendations.
For most crafters, the Sizzix Big Shot remains the best all-around die cutting machine. It has the largest die library, proven durability, and universal compatibility with thousands of third-party dies. The 6-inch A5 opening covers most card making and scrapbooking projects.
If you want to start with everything included, the Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit gives you the machine plus 10 dies, an embossing folder, and 40 cardstock sheets. For serious crafters, the Anna Griffin Empress Elite offers electric feed and large plates. For travelers, the Sizzix Sidekick fits in a bag and weighs just 2 pounds.
The best die cutting machine is the one you will actually use. Start with a manual machine in the $50 to $150 range, build your die collection, and upgrade to electric when your craft volume demands it. Whichever machine you choose, you are taking the first step toward cleaner cuts and more enjoyable crafting sessions.