Our picks at a glance
Paid link: buttons go to the retailer. Prices change often, so we link to the current price instead of listing one.
Comparison table
| Feature | Cricut Maker 3Best overall | Cricut Joy XtraBest compact |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict | Buy | Buy |
| Best for | Serious crafters | Beginners |
| Key feature | Cuts 300+ materials | Compact and easy |
| Typical price | $350–$430 | $200–$250 |
| Where to buy | Check price Paid link | Check price Paid link |
Cutting Machines
8.8/10 research score
1Best overallBuy
Cricut Maker 3
Cuts 300+ materials. Our pick for serious crafters.
- Buy it if
- You want one machine for vinyl, fabric, wood and more.
- Skip it if
- You only make occasional cards.
Pros
- Cuts the widest range of materials
- Fast with smart materials
- Adaptive tool system
Cons
- Expensive
- Tools sold separately
Check current price Paid linkTypically $350–$430
Cutting Machines
8.4/10 research score
2Best compactBuy
Cricut Joy Xtra
Compact and easy. Our pick for beginners.
- Buy it if
- You want an easy, compact machine for cards, labels and stickers.
- Skip it if
- You want to cut thick materials.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to learn
- Print-then-cut
Cons
- Limited materials
Check current price Paid linkTypically $200–$250
Compare more cutting machines on Amazon Paid link
How we chose
Smart cutting machines compared on materials, size and ease of use. We compared specifications, manufacturer documentation, warranty terms and typical prices, then gave every product a clear verdict with the people who should skip it.
What to look for in cutting machines
- Larger machines cut more materials and wider projects.
- Smart materials let you cut long designs without a mat.
Frequently asked questions
Which Cricut should I buy?
Maker 3 for the widest range of materials; Joy Xtra for compact, simpler projects.