Which Cricut is Right for Me?

Have you ever used a Cricut? I have all of Cricut’s machines, and I have to say that my favorite way to use them is for organizing, of course. Hello pretty labels! Maybe you would love to use one too, but you don’t know where to start. I know the options can be overwhelming, especially when you’re deciding how much to spend for a fancy cutting machine!

That’s why I put together this video to explain the differences between the Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore, and Cricut Joy. Clink the link below to watch the video, or keep reading!

This post does contain affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission. I only recommend products I use and love and would recommend to my best friend!  

First of all, if you don’t know what a Cricut machine is, it’s essentially a die cutting machine. It can cut out words, pictures, pretty much anything! But it doesn’t just have to cut on paper. It is super versatile and can cut multiple kinds of materials. It’s great for making greeting cards, labels, decorations, vinyl for iron-ons, and much more!

Cricut has three cutting machines: Cricut Maker, Cricut Explore, and Cricut Joy.

CRICUT MAKER

The Maker is the biggest, most heavy-duty machine. It allows you to cut materials up to 12 inches wide, and it has a lot more cutting force, so it can cut leather and even balsa wood! This machine definitely allows you to cut the widest variety of materials.

CRICUT EXPLORE

The Explore also has a 12-inch-wide cutting space. It’s a lot more lightweight than the Maker, but it takes up about the same amount of space. You still have a lot of material options with the Explore, though not quite as many as the Maker.

CRICUT JOY

The Joy can cut the same materials as the Explore, but it only cuts up to 6 inches wide. This is a great option for storing in a small space. You can check out this post where I explain how to use it. The Joy is an especially great option for cardmaking. It also is the best choice for cutting vinyl because it does not require a mat for cutting vinyl the way the Maker and Explore do.

The software is the same for all three of these machines, but it is important to note that the tools are interchangeable between the Maker and the Explore only.

I have to say that if you have the space, I highly recommend the Maker! You just can’t beat the versatility of this machine. I am in love with mine!

If you want even more details, check out this post where I walk you through how to get started with your Cricut Maker. Or if you’re already convinced and want to buy your own, you can do that here.

Let me know in the comments what YOU’LL be making with your Cricut machine!