Cricut, a well-known home improvement company, has found itself amid some customer angst over the past few days. Although an announcement was recently made by the company that free subscribers will be restricted to 20 file uploads monthly, many are still interested in changing their machines for one that is not affected by this development.
If you’re not happy with the results of cutting something with a knife or X-acto scissors, Cricut can improve it. If you know what you are seeking and are on a tight budget, then there exist a variety of options for Cricut. One of Cricut’s biggest competitors is Silhouette, whose offerings are even more expensive.
Cricut Alternative
Silhouette Cameo 4
The best alternative to Cricut Maker is Silhouette Cameo 4. There are many similarities between the two engines. In the aspect of speed, it’s pretty much on the same level as Cricut Maker 3, they both are quite fast, and like Maker 3, Cameo 4 has a roller feeder built into it. You will find a lower price for the Silhouette Cameo 4 because it is cheaper, but actually, both engines are more powerful in terms of power consumption, 5kg, 1kg more than the Cricut Maker.
Cutters possess new tools like rotary and power, and rollers can take longer designs. It can handle leather, balsa wood, and even chipboard. It can cut materials up to 3 mm (0.11 in) thick with a razor, which is 0.6 mm ahead of Maker 3. Another big difference is the software. Cricut is very easy to utilize, albeit basic, whereas Silhouette Studio arrives with a steeper learning curve.
However, we like the Silhouette which has gone for standalone software that operates on your machine. This means there are no monthly subscription fees like Cricut Access, and no active internet connection is required. Overall, it is the best Cricut option for individual and professional projects.
What are the Other Cricut Alternatives?
1. Crafter’s Companion Gemini
If you want an automatic router without the price of a Cricut engine, follow in Gemini’s footsteps. This compact and highly portable electronic knife is the size that fits most Cricut Joys but is much cheaper. It performs the work for you by automatically guiding the cutting disc in form of a laminator. When faced with a case of emergency, there is a rewind button to contain such scenarios.
It is compatible with multiple prints and easily cuts through even the thickest of cards. It also provides a wider cutting width than the Sizzix Big Shot, slices material up to A4 width, and fits securely in table corners. Like all mowers, the plates will sooner or later need to be changed, but this is inexpensive and stress-free to execute.
2. Brother ScanNCut SDX125
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125 is a remarkable alternative for experienced crafters. If you’re bored of the same designs and old pictures, Brother can come to the rescue.
Look, this machine has a built-in scanner. It allows you to crop and multiply custom shapes and images. The choice is clear. Brother is the best choice. Making it much more difficult. You have to take an image, then upload it to the software and play around with it. Easy with Brother. You bring your design to the mat. You let it start the scanning process and it’s done.
I love the new facelift that the Brother ScanNCut SDX125 has received. It’s not just a vinyl saw. It is the quietest on the market today. It’s so noiseless that you can work with it effectively at night without disturbing anyone.
3. Silhouette Portrait 3
While the Silhouette Cameo 4 is considered one of the best options for Cricut Maker 3, the Silhouette Portrait 3 is measurable to the Cricut Explore 3. This device is built as an entry-level trimmer and is ideal in that respect, but don’t have high hopes and expectations that this trimming style has the same flexibility and power as the Silhouette Cameo 4 trimmer.
The Silhouette Portrait 3 is not as big as the Silhouette Cameo 4 and is equipped with a lower cutting force (210 grams compared to 5000 grams of the Silhouette Cameo 4), therefore it is great for sticker and card projects and is capable of dealing with multiple materials.
patible with the new Silhouette Go mobile app. We discovered most Silhouette blades and tools to operate with Silhouette Portrait 3, but some need an adapter (purchased separately). If you’re inexperienced with digital cutting plotters, then it is advisable you begin with Silhouette 3.
4. UsCutter MH 28-inch Vinyl Cutter Plotter
If you are tired of using mats and want to cut vinyl without mats, the UsCutter MH 28 machine is perfect. MH not only supports bottomless cutting but also allows us to work with foot stock instead of inches.
As we all know, a lot of money goes into good design. You see, Cricut Maker’s largest crop size is 12 x 24 inches. With this MH series, you can go from 28 inches to just a few meters. This vinyl plotter is fast. I mean 39 inches/sec.
This electric knife isn’t just for vinyl. It can also handle paper. This machine has a cutting force of 350g, which is more than enough for vinyl and paper.
Here is a useful tip. Use different blades for paper and vinyl. Paper tends to dull the blade faster. You don’t want to come clean before a big project.
Conclusion
We have come to the end of this article. I hope you already know which is the best alternative for you.
If you know what you want to work on, the choice is much easier. If you’re just testing the water, it’s better to use a starter engine. If you like the craft, you can upgrade to a special machine.
Frequently Asked Question
- What are the cheaper Cricut options?
Answer: Silhouette Portrait 3 and Sizzix Big shot are two cheaper options than Cricut.
- How much does Cricut Explore Air 2 cost on Amazon?
Answer: The Cricut Explore Air 2 is priced at $199.00 on Amazon.
