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Head-to-head · Best Vinyl Cutting Machines

Cricut Explore 4 vs Cricut Maker 4

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Cricut Maker 4 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about Advanced crafters seeking maximum versatility — read the strengths below before deciding.

Cricut Explore 4
Ranked #5 in Best Vinyl Cutting Machines
Cricut Explore 4
6 sources1 derived

Cricut's Explore 4 offers significant speed improvements over its predecessor, particularly with non-Smart Materials, where it can be up to twice as fast. CNET's Russell Holly noted the machine maintains quality at speed and retains the same sturdy build and familiar interface as the Explore 3. The device is priced identically to the Explore 3, making it a cost-effective upgrade for crafters seeking faster performance. However, it doesn't introduce any new supported materials or tools, limiting its appeal for users looking for expanded functionality.

Strengths
  • — Up to 2x faster than the Explore 3 with non-Smart Materials
  • — Maintains quality while increasing speed
  • — Same price point as the Explore 3
Watch-outs
  • — No new supported tools
  • — No new supported materials
Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Cricut Maker 4
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Vinyl Cutting Machines
Cricut Maker 4
8 sources3 derived$449as of Sep 1

The Cricut Maker 4 is a smart cutting machine designed for crafters of all skill levels, capable of handling over 300 materials including paper, fabric, wood, and leather. TechRadar praised its speed improvements and versatility, while YouTube reviewers noted its size and weight as drawbacks for portability. The machine connects via Bluetooth or USB and uses the Cricut Design Space app for design customization. It's suitable for both basic projects like stickers and homemade t-shirts, as well as advanced crafts such as 3D folded designs and engraved metal or leather. The device comes with a crafting mat, phone storage rail, and storage compartments, making it a comprehensive tool for home crafting enthusiasts.

Strengths
  • — Cuts, engraves, scores, and debosses over 300 materials including paper, fabric, wood, and leather
  • — Up to two times faster than the previous model
  • — Works with the Cricut Design Space app for design and customization
Watch-outs
  • — Machine is fairly large and heavy, similar to a home office printer
  • — Requires a learning curve for new users to get started
$449 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Cricut Explore 4

The Cricut Explore 4 improves speed over the Explore 3 but doesn't add new materials or tools, unlike the Explore 5 which offers a more compact design and easier blade replacement. It's less versatile than the Maker 4, which supports more advanced functions like engraving and debossing.

Cricut Maker 4

The Cricut Maker 4 stands out from the Cricut Maker and Maker 3 with its significant speed improvements and expanded material capabilities, though it's heavier and less portable than the Cricut Joy 2. Unlike the Explore series, it offers more advanced features like debossing and engraving, but lacks the beginner-friendly simplicity of the Explore 5.

Specs side-by-side

SpecCricut Explore 4Cricut Maker 4
MaterialsSupports Smart Materials and third-party materialsOver 300 including paper, fabric, wood, leather
Max SpeedUp to 2x faster than Explore 3Up to two times faster than previous model
ConnectivityBluetooth, USB cableBluetooth, USB cable
Cutting Width11.5 inches11.5 inches
SoftwareCricut Design SpaceCricut Design Space
Dimensions22.2 x 7 x 5.9 inches22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches
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