The 9 Best Die Cut Machines

Best Overall

Cricut Maker Machine

$220 at Amazon $249 at Walmart View on Cricut.com

Used by hobbyists and artisans alike, the Cricut Maker is one of the top-rated die cutting machines on the market. With an extensive line of cutting tools, accessories, and an impressive 4kg of downward force, the Cricut Maker can cut more than 300 different materials—paper, leather, wood, and more—with relative ease. 

This model comes with two cutting mats to hold your material firmly in place, as well as materials to get you started on your first project. Our tester noted that the setup process could not have been easier and the machine works quickly with minimal guidance.

But the standout feature of the CricutMaker is its DesignSpace app, which features hundreds of project options—some are free, and others cost around 99 cents— that you can download, cut, and create. For the more custom creators, you can work on designs on your phone or laptop and transfer them directly to the machine thanks to the CricutMaker’s Bluetooth connectivity.  

Though this is a little pricier than similarly capable models, users say “it is 100 percent worth every single penny." Our tester found that the combination of the sleek look, multiple designs, and longevity make it worth the high price.

_{Dimensions: 7.1 x 6.25-inches | Material Compatibility: Fabric, felt, leather, and more | Max. Material Size: 12 inches wide | Connectivity: Electric}

Best Manual

Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit

$300 at Amazon

Teo has tried a number of manual machines, but says the Sizzix Big Shot Plus is the best for making clean lines and impressions. A step up from the original Sizzix Big Shot, the bigger platform allows you to cut materials up to 9 inches wide. Additionally, the newest model allows you to die cut and emboss even more material, such as paper, foam, cork, and wood. 

Despite the versatility of material, Teo says the machine works best on paper, making it perfect for cardmaking and scrapbooking. Each machine comes with cutting pads, multiple die sets, and several pieces of cardstock to kickstart your project. Additionally, purchasing the Sizzix Big Shot Plus gives you access to the entire Sizzix library of dies for endless crafting possibilities.

_{Dimensions: 15.75 x 7.5 x 11.75 inches | Material Compatibility: Paper and wood | Max. Material Size: 9 inches wide, 6 inches thick | Connectivity: Manual}

Best Electric

Silhouette Cameo 4

$300 $280 at Amazon $200 at Michaels $199 at Walmart

If you’re tackling larger projects, then it’s worth investing in the Silhouette Cameo 4. The machine can cut projects 12 inches wide and up to 10 feet in length—similar models tap out at just 2 feet in length. The Cameo 4 also features a built-in roll feeder so you can load an entire roll of vinyl or heat transfer material and crank out projects without having to stop and refill. Not to mention the built-in crosscutter lets you trim vinyl or heat transfer right from the roll.

The machine’s 5kg force allows it to cut through just about anything, though most users utilize it for cardstock and fabric. Each Cameo 4 comes with an AutoBlade that automatically detects material depth, a rotary blade, kraft blade, and punch tool.

And good news—you can load multiple tools into the machine at once. That said, the carriage can only use one tool at a time. For example, the machine can draw and then cut, but it can’t do both simultaneously. Even still, this machine offers faster production speeds over previous models of Silhouettes.

_{Dimensions: 22.44 x 7.87 x 6.69 inches | Material Compatibility: Cardstock and fabric | Max. Material Size: 12 inches wide, 6 inches thick | Connectivity: Electric}

Best for Beginners

Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine

$240 $190 at Amazon $229 at Michaels $119 at Walmart

If you’re a novice crafter who is intimidated by die cutting, the Cricut Explore Air 2 has a straightforward setup and simple software that make it easy for you to get started on your project. Thanks to the fine point blade, these can be done on more than 100 different materials, including premium vinyl, HTV vinyl, faux leather, cardstock, and more. 

The CricutExplore Air 2 comes with other accessories, including the Cricut 12-inch LightGrip cutting mat and a black fine point pen. It’s also compatible with a deep cut tool and scoring tool and has a double tool holder. You also have access to the Cricut Design Space app, which includes hundreds of pre-programmed projects. Of course, you are welcome to create something original, just keep in mind that all design work takes place while the machine is connected to Wi-Fi.

But the real draw of this Cricutis the much-touted “Fast Mode” feature. All you have to do is move the dial to the proper material and check the “Fast Mode” box from your device for a quicker turnaround. 

_{Dimensions: 8.43 x 5.43 x 4.25-inches | Material Compatibility: Vinyl | Max. Material Size: 5.5-inches. | Connectivity: Wireless}

Best for Fabric

Bira Mini Die Cut Machine

$50 at Amazon $40 at Walmart

The Bira Adjustable Die Cutting & Embossing Machine is a must-have for crafters who are more focussed on quilting and sewing than making scrapbooking and cards (though it can do the latter two just as well). Though heavier than other machines, the weight keeps it stable while you crank out your intricate designs. 

Users' favorite features, however, are the easy-to-use adjustment gears. With the simple turn of a knob, you are able to change the height, blade depth, and cutting force to meet your project’s needs. Though the manual element may deter you, users say it allows for clear cuts and better control over the final project. And it helps that the crank handle has a soft grip to provide comfort for hours of crafting. 

_{Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 9 inches | Material Compatibility: Paper and fabric | Max. Material Size: 9 inches wide | Connectivity: Manual}

Best for Vinyl Stickers

Silhouette Portrait 3

View on Amazon $150 at Michaels $200 at JOANN

You wouldn’t expect such a small machine to do so much, but the Silhouette Portrait 3 makes it easy to take on larger projects. Where most machines can only handle material that’s 2 feet long, the Silhouette can handle up to 60 feet of most materials—vinyl, paper, cardstock, and fabric, to name a few.  

In addition to cutting on a cutting mat, the Silhouette Portrait 3 can perform two different matless cuts that are ideal for vinyl or sticker making. The first, a kiss cut, allows the machine to cut through the top layer only. The second, pop-out cut, uses a special perforated cut mode to allow you to pop out the design once it’s printed. 

Another amazing feature: the Auto Tool Detection, which allows the software to detect what tools are inserted into your machine, and lets you know if you need to swap them out for others. Though the software includes this and other amazing features, such as cut adjustments, users warn that it can be a little difficult to learn at first. 

_{Dimensions: 16.2 in. x 5.5 in. x 4.4 in | Material Compatibility: Vinyl, paper, cardstock, fabric | Max. Material Size: 9 inches wide | Connectivity: Electric}

Best for Quilting

AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Cutter

$349 $293 at Amazon

Although many die cutters can handle fabric, very few can handle the thick material needed for quilting. Not only can AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Cutter tackle the thickest of fabrics, but it is designed to cut up to six layers of thinner fabric at once. And the speed doesn’t sacrifice the quality—customers confirm the dies cut very accurately, which saves quilters a lot of time and removes the worry over uneven pieces or incorrect cuts.

Perfect for seasoned and beginning quilters alike, the machine comes with two square dies and one half-square triangle die, along with a cutting mat. More dies are also available for purchase, though they can be a bit pricey. 

For quilters who like to take their craft with them, the AccuQuilt GO!’s  patented portable design makes it easy to bring the machine to classes, retreats, and even on vacation. Just keep in mind that it weighs about 19 pounds. 

_{Dimensions: 17.75 x 7.75 x 17 inches | Material Compatibility: Fabric | Max. Material Size: Not Listed | Connectivity: Electric}

Best Portable

Cricut Joy

$149 $99 at Amazon $170 at Wayfair $149 at Michaels

The Cricut Joy is a great option for both new crafters and experienced DIYers who like to travel with their tools. Measuring less than 9 inches long, the machine takes up little space but still has the cutting, writing, and label making capabilities of larger models. A downside is that the smaller size can only cut designs with a width of up to 4.25 inches, but that’s perfect for things like cards and labels. 

Like most Cricut machines, the Joy connects to smartphones and computers via Bluetooth, making it easy to upload and create your own designs. Note that the tools are limited with the Joy—each machine comes with a premium fine point blade and housing, fine point pen, and a standard grip mat—nothing more. When testing the Cricut Joy, our tester spent roughly $100 on additional tools. Fortunately, you can purchase the starter bundle, cutting tools, markers, Smart materials, and mats separately for a relatively reasonable price.

Although it lacks some of the features seen in the larger models, the CricutJoy is a great basic die cut machine or a good addition for crafters that want a portable option for small-scale projects.

_{Dimensions: 8.43 x 5.43 x 4.25 inches | Material Compatibility: Vinyl and cardstock | Max. Material Size: 5.5 inches | Connectivity: Wireless}

Best Budget

Bira Mini Die Cut Machine

$50 at Amazon $40 at Walmart

The Bira Mini is a great option for those who are just starting their die cutting and embossing journey. This manual die cutter can accept materials up to 3 inches in width, making it perfect for creating cards and tackling other small-scale projects. Each machine comes with multiple cutting and embossing plates, seven cutting dies, and a rubber pad to keep things in place. 

Depending on how often you use your Bira Mini, the base plates may need to be replaced more often than those of other machines. This could get pricey after a while, so something to keep in mind if you’re trying to keep costs down. 

Because of its compact size, you will be limited in the type—and size—of projects. But for those who are looking to hone their cardmaking and scrapbook skills, it’s a great purchase.  

_{Dimensions: 8 x 3.8 x 5 inches | Material Compatibility: Thinner fabric and paper | Max. Material Size: 3 inches | Connectivity: Manual}