10 Best Vinyl Cutters 2025 in the United States

The Cricut Explore 4 - Smart Cutting Machine offers a comprehensive bundle for those interested in arts and crafts. With a cutting width suitable for various projects, it can handle over 100 different materials, including vinyl, iron-on HTV, and cardstock. This versatility makes it a strong choice for hobbyists and small business owners looking to personalize items or create custom designs.

The machine also features drawing, foiling, and scoring capabilities, enhancing its functionality beyond just cutting. The inclusion of the Cricut Design Space app, compatible with multiple platforms (iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac), allows for easy design customization and project management. Additionally, it works with most inkjet printers for full-color designs, which is a plus for creating stickers and other detailed items.

The essentials bundle provides a wide range of materials and tools, ensuring you have everything you need to start right away. On the downside, the machine's weight (17.36 pounds) and package size (24.5 x 9.8 x 9.7 inches) may make it less portable. Moreover, while the Design Space app is free, accessing the extensive library of images and project templates requires a subscription to Cricut Access, which might be an additional cost to consider. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Cricut Explore 4's ease of use and extensive capabilities make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced crafters.

The Cricut Joy Xtra Smart Cutting Machine is a compact and versatile option for anyone interested in crafting with vinyl and other materials. One of its standout features is the ability to cut over 50 different materials, which includes vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock. This makes it a great choice for hobbyists and small businesses looking to create custom designs or crafts. The precision cutting capability allows users to handle intricate designs with ease, and it also has the added functionality to write, draw, and foil, expanding its utility beyond just cutting.

In terms of software compatibility, the Cricut Joy Xtra works seamlessly with Cricut's design software, which is user-friendly for beginners. It offers good connectivity options, allowing you to connect through Bluetooth, making it easy to send designs wirelessly from your devices. The machine's compact size (12.5 x 6 x 5.5 inches) also makes it suitable for smaller workspaces, appealing to those who may not have lots of room.

While the Cricut Joy Xtra may have limitations in its cutting width and force compared to larger or more professional-grade vinyl cutters, it is still an excellent choice for casual crafters and small project creators, especially those working with vinyl. Its ease of use, versatility, and compact design are strong points, though it may not meet the needs of users looking for heavy-duty cutting capabilities or larger workspaces.

The Cricut Joy Machine & Digital Content Library Bundle is a delightful and compact vinyl cutter designed for crafting enthusiasts. One of its standout features is its portability, weighing just 3.68 pounds, making it easy to transport and store. It's perfect for users who enjoy making customized cards, crafts, and labels on the go. The machine supports a cutting width suitable for small to medium-sized projects, which is ideal for personal crafting but may not suit larger commercial needs.

The cutting force is sufficient for over 50 different materials, including cardstock, vinyl decal, and iron-on, offering versatility for various projects. However, it might struggle with thicker materials that require higher cutting force. The included digital library of 30 images in the Design Space App is a nice bonus, providing immediate creative options without extra cost. Setting up and using the Cricut Joy is straightforward, thanks to its user-friendly design and the comprehensive guidance provided during setup.

It's a great choice for beginners and those who prefer hassle-free operation. The Bluetooth connectivity and app-based control on iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac allow for seamless integration with your devices, adding to the convenience. On the downside, the cutting speed is moderate, which might be a drawback for users needing to complete large volumes of work quickly. Additionally, while the software compatibility is decent, the reliance on the cloud-based Design Space app could be limiting for users without reliable internet access. In conclusion, the Cricut Joy Machine is an excellent tool for creative crafters who value portability and ease of use, though it may not meet the demands of heavy-duty or high-volume cutting tasks.