Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Vinyl Cutting Machines

Cricut Explore Air 2 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.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Cricut Maker 4 comes out ahead by a clear margin (3.8 vs 4.4). The gap is mostly about Advanced crafters seeking maximum versatility — read the strengths below before deciding.

Cricut Explore Air 2
Ranked #7 in Best Vinyl Cutting Machines
Cricut Explore Air 2
7 sourcesall derived

The Cricut Explore Air 2 is praised for its versatility in cutting over 100 materials including vinyl, leather, and adhesive foils, with a premium fine point blade for detailed work. Reviewers highlight the intuitive Cricut Design Space software with thousands of free projects and templates, and note that the machine is ready to use in about 20 minutes with included materials. However, some users find the setup overwhelming due to the vast number of options and features, and report a steep learning curve despite helpful tutorials. This machine appeals to both novice and professional crafters seeking personalized creations for t-shirts, home decor, and more.

Strengths
  • — Cuts over 100 types of materials including cardstock, vinyl, leather, and adhesive foils
  • — Includes a premium fine point blade for detailed cutting tasks
  • — Intuitive Cricut Design Space software with thousands of free projects and templates
Watch-outs
  • — Setup can be overwhelming for beginners due to the vast number of options and features
  • — Some users report difficulty with the learning curve despite helpful tutorials
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 Air 2

The Cricut Explore Air 2 is more intuitive than the Maker 4 and Maker 3, but it lacks the advanced cutting capabilities and material range of those models. Unlike the Explore 5, it's bulkier and doesn't offer the same compact design, though it's more beginner-friendly.

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 Air 2Cricut Maker 4
MaterialsOver 100 types including cardstock, vinyl, leather, adhesive foilsOver 300 including paper, fabric, wood, leather
Cutting Width12 inches11.5 inches
Max Speed2x fasterUp to two times faster than previous model
ConnectivityBluetooth and USBBluetooth, USB cable
SoftwareCricut Design SpaceCricut Design Space
Dimensions22.8 in22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches
← See the full ranking of best vinyl cutting machines