Cricut Maker vs Explore Air 2: Which Cricut Is Best?
Ready to dive into the world of crafting, but feeling overwhelmed by the choices? You’re not alone! The Cricut family offers incredible machines, but deciding between the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 can be tricky. This comparison will break down the key differences to help you find the perfect cutting machine for your creative needs.
Both the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 are popular choices, each boasting impressive features. The Explore Air 2 is known for its speed and versatility, while the Maker offers advanced capabilities. Understanding their strengths is crucial for making an informed decision.
We’ll explore everything from cutting capabilities and material compatibility to ease of use and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting, this guide will provide you with the insights you need to choose the best Cricut machine for your projects. Get ready to unleash your creativity!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Cricut Maker | Cricut Explore Air 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Force | 4000g | 400g |
| Smart Materials Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Blade | Yes | No |
| Knife Blade | Yes | No |
| Adaptive Tool System | Yes | No |
| Print Then Cut | Yes | Yes |
| Maximum Cutting Width | 12 inches | 12 inches |
| Maximum Cutting Length | 24 inches (with mat) | 24 inches (with mat) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth, USB |
| Material Compatibility | Over 300 materials | Over 100 materials |
| Pen Compatibility | Yes | Yes |
| Software | Cricut Design Space | Cricut Design Space |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cutting Power & Materials
- Cricut Maker: Boasts a more powerful cutting force (4000g) and the Adaptive Tool System, allowing it to cut a wider variety of materials, including thicker and denser ones like wood, leather, and fabric with the appropriate blades. This advanced system offers versatility but may require purchasing additional tools.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Has a cutting force of 350g, suitable for a wide range of materials like vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and thin materials. It is less powerful than the Maker, limiting its ability to cut thicker and more complex materials.
- Winner: Maker
Tool Compatibility
- Cricut Maker: Compatible with a wide array of tools, including the Rotary Blade for fabric, Knife Blade for thicker materials, and scoring wheels. This extensive toolset unlocks diverse project possibilities.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Limited to a smaller selection of tools, primarily the Fine-Point Blade, Deep-Cut Blade, and scoring stylus. It lacks the advanced tool options of the Maker.
- Winner: Maker
Cutting Speed
- Cricut Maker: Offers similar cutting speeds to the Explore Air 2. The cutting speed is highly dependent on the material and tool used.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Known for its fast cutting speed, particularly with common materials like vinyl and cardstock, with a “Fast Mode” setting for accelerated performance.
- Winner: Explore Air 2
Material Thickness
- Cricut Maker: Can cut materials up to 2.4 mm thick with the Knife Blade, opening up possibilities for more complex and substantial projects.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Generally cuts materials up to 1.2 mm thick, making it less suitable for thicker materials.
- Winner: Maker
Smart Materials Compatibility
- Cricut Maker: Compatible with Cricut Smart Materials, allowing for easy, mat-free cutting of vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Also compatible with Cricut Smart Materials, providing a convenient mat-free cutting experience.
- Winner: Tie
Design Software (Cricut Design Space)
- Cricut Maker: Uses Cricut Design Space, a user-friendly and feature-rich software with a vast library of images, fonts, and project templates. It is the same software used by the Explore Air 2.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Uses Cricut Design Space, offering a similar experience with access to a wide range of design tools, images, and project templates.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Cricut Maker: Typically more expensive than the Explore Air 2, reflecting its advanced features and capabilities.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: More affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for beginners and casual crafters.
- Winner: Explore Air 2
Overall Versatility
- Cricut Maker: Offers greater versatility due to its wider range of compatible tools and its ability to cut more materials. It excels in more complex and demanding projects.
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Is still very versatile, but its limitations in cutting thicker materials and its more limited tool selection make it less so than the Maker.
- Winner: Maker
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Cutting Force | Cricut Maker |
| Material Versatility | Cricut Maker |
| Specialty Blades | Cricut Maker |
| Ease of Use | Cricut Explore Air 2 |
| Value | Cricut Explore Air 2 |
What They Have in Common
- Design Software: Both machines utilize Cricut Design Space, a user-friendly software that allows you to create and customize your designs. The software is cloud-based and accessible on various devices.
- Wireless Connectivity: Both the Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2 offer Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless cutting from your computer or mobile device. This provides greater flexibility in your crafting space.
- Print Then Cut: Both machines support the Print Then Cut feature, which allows you to print designs on your home printer and then precisely cut them out with your Cricut machine. This is ideal for stickers, labels, and more.
- USB Connectivity: Both machines can connect to your computer via USB, providing an alternative method for transferring designs and controlling the machine. This is useful if you have issues with Bluetooth.
- Compatibility with Cricut Cartridges: Both machines are compatible with Cricut cartridges, allowing users to access a wide library of pre-designed images and fonts. However, this is less common now with the Design Space software.
Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Explore Air 2 Buying Guide
Cutting Capabilities
The Cricut Maker boasts a much wider range of cutting capabilities compared to the Explore Air 2. It can handle thicker materials like basswood, chipboard, and fabric, thanks to its adaptive tool system and the Knife Blade. The Explore Air 2 is primarily designed for thinner materials such as vinyl, paper, and iron-on. This difference makes the Maker a better choice for more ambitious and diverse projects. Consider the materials you plan to use most frequently to determine which machine best suits your needs.
Tool System and Accessories
The Cricut Maker’s adaptive tool system is a significant advantage. It allows for the use of various tools, including the Knife Blade, Rotary Blade, and scoring wheels, expanding its functionality. The Explore Air 2 has a simpler tool system, accommodating fewer specialized blades and tools. The Maker’s versatility in this area directly translates to more project possibilities. Assess the accessories and tools included and available for each machine to match your project requirements.
Materials Compatibility
Material compatibility is a crucial factor. The Cricut Maker can cut over 300 materials, including delicate fabrics, leather, and thicker materials. The Explore Air 2 is limited to around 100 materials, primarily lighter ones. Think about the types of projects you envision yourself creating. If you plan to work with fabric, wood, or other non-traditional materials, the Maker is the better option. Consider the materials you need to cut and which machine supports them.
Software and Design Space
Both machines use Cricut Design Space, a user-friendly design software. However, the Maker’s advanced capabilities are reflected in the software’s features. Design Space offers a vast library of pre-designed projects and the ability to upload your own designs. The software is generally intuitive, but the Maker’s more complex features may require a slightly steeper learning curve. Both machines benefit from Cricut Design Space’s features, but the Maker’s can be more complex.
Speed and Performance
The Explore Air 2 is known for its speed, offering faster cutting times for common materials. The Maker, while still efficient, may be slightly slower when cutting certain materials, particularly thicker ones. The difference in speed is often negligible for simpler projects. If you prioritize speed and primarily work with vinyl or paper, the Explore Air 2 could be preferable. However, the Maker’s versatility often justifies any potential speed difference.
Price and Value
The Cricut Maker is generally more expensive than the Explore Air 2. However, the added features, versatility, and material compatibility justify the price difference for many users. The Explore Air 2 offers excellent value for those who primarily work with basic materials and are on a budget. Evaluate your budget and project needs to determine which machine offers the best value for your specific requirements. Consider the long-term potential of each machine.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Cricut Maker If…
- You plan to work with a wide variety of materials, including thicker materials like leather, balsa wood, and chipboard.
- You need the extra cutting force and precision for intricate designs and demanding projects.
- You want access to specialty blades like the Rotary Blade and Knife Blade for cutting fabric and thicker materials.
- You anticipate using your machine for professional projects or require advanced cutting capabilities.
Buy Cricut Explore Air 2 If…
- You are new to the world of cutting machines and want an easy-to-use option.
- You primarily work with common crafting materials like vinyl, paper, and cardstock.
- You are looking for a more affordable option that still offers a wide range of cutting capabilities.
- You want a machine that is fast and efficient for everyday projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2?
The Cricut Maker offers more cutting power, a wider range of compatible materials (including thicker materials like wood and fabric), and a more advanced tool system. The Explore Air 2 is faster for some cutting tasks and more budget-friendly. The Maker is designed for more complex and diverse projects, while the Explore Air 2 is best for basic crafting.
Which machine is better for beginners?
Both machines are user-friendly, but the Explore Air 2 might be slightly easier for beginners due to its simpler tool system and lower price point. However, the Cricut Maker’s versatility means it can grow with you as your skills develop. The learning curve for both is manageable with Cricut Design Space’s tutorials and project guides.
Can I cut fabric with the Cricut Explore Air 2?
While you can cut some lightweight fabrics with the Explore Air 2 using the bonded fabric blade, the Cricut Maker is significantly better suited for fabric cutting. The Maker’s Rotary Blade and specialized fabric cutting capabilities provide superior precision and efficiency. The Maker is the better choice for serious fabric crafters.
What tools and accessories are compatible with each machine?
The Cricut Maker has a wider range of compatible tools, including the Knife Blade, Rotary Blade, scoring wheels, and more. The Explore Air 2 supports fewer tools, primarily blades and pens. Check the Cricut website for a comprehensive list of compatible tools and accessories for each machine before making a decision.
Does the Cricut Maker offer more project possibilities?
Yes, the Cricut Maker offers significantly more project possibilities due to its ability to cut a wider range of materials and its advanced tool system. You can create projects with fabric, wood, leather, and more, expanding your crafting horizons. The Explore Air 2 is limited to materials like vinyl and paper.
How important is the speed difference between the two machines?
The Explore Air 2 is generally faster, especially for simpler projects with vinyl and paper. However, the difference is often negligible for more complex projects. If speed is a top priority, the Explore Air 2 might be better. The Maker’s versatility usually justifies any potential speed difference for more advanced projects.
Which machine is the better investment for the long term?
The Cricut Maker is generally the better long-term investment due to its expanded capabilities and versatility. It can handle more complex projects and a wider variety of materials. While the Explore Air 2 is more affordable initially, the Maker’s longevity and project potential make it a worthwhile investment for serious crafters. Consider your future project goals.
Final Verdict
The Cricut Maker offers superior versatility, cutting power, and material compatibility, making it the better choice for serious crafters. While the Explore Air 2 is a capable machine, the Maker’s advanced features and expanded capabilities provide a greater range of project possibilities. The Maker’s adaptive tool system and ability to cut thicker materials make it the more comprehensive option.
Winner: Cricut Maker