The Cricut Explore 5 represents a significant redesign for the Explore line, offering a 30% smaller footprint while maintaining full 12-inch cutting performance. Reviewers noted the new integrated blade system and snap-in pen holder as user-friendly improvements, though the single clamp system creates a workflow disruption for users accustomed to the dual-clamp Explore 4. The machine is positioned as an accessible entry point at $199, though early adopters may find the tool swap during multi-step projects slightly inconvenient. This makes it ideal for beginners and casual crafters but may not satisfy users who rely heavily on scored-and-cut workflows.
Full review
Compact footprint with major redesign
The Cricut Explore 5 represents a significant physical overhaul for the Explore line, marking the first major redesign since 2014. Vinyl Cutting Machines found that the machine measures 19.8 × 7.5 × 4.7 inches, representing a 30% smaller footprint compared to the Explore 4 which measured 22.2 × 7.0 × 5.9 inches. This compact design allows the Explore 5 to sit comfortably on small desks or craft tables, making it ideal for shared or limited workspace environments. The redesign includes a completely new exterior aesthetic with an open-top design that eliminates the flip-up lid, creating a modern look but potentially exposing the machine to more dust. Jennifer Maker noted that this change in design is clearly visible and represents a departure from previous models, though it does mean more dust exposure if the machine is left out.
The Explore 5 also introduces a new integrated blade system where the blade and housing are now a single unit, simplifying blade replacement and improving safety by eliminating the need to handle tiny exposed blades. The machine features a snap-in pen holder that is quick and satisfying to use, with a simple click mechanism for loading pens. Additionally, the machine includes a new Deep Cutting Tool sold separately, which handles materials up to 1.5mm such as foam, rubber, and magnet sheets. This is a significant improvement over previous Explore machines that could not handle these materials without the specialized Deep Point Blade. The single clamp system is perhaps the most controversial change, as it replaces the previous dual clamp system that allowed for scoring and cutting in a single pass. The single clamp system means that for projects requiring both scoring and cutting, the machine will pause and require a tool swap, which takes about 10 seconds according to the reviews.
Software and AI integration
The Cricut Explore 5 includes a new software feature called Design Space Create AI, which allows users to generate cut-ready single-layer designs from text prompts. This AI-powered feature is still in early stages according to Vinyl Cutting Machines, but it's described as fun to play with and represents an exciting development in the software capabilities of the machine. The AI feature is part of Cricut Access and provides users with a new way to create designs without having to manually create them from scratch. The software integration is designed to make the machine more accessible to beginners while also providing new creative possibilities for experienced users.
Jennifer Maker noted that the Explore 5 comes with a comprehensive set of tools and materials included in the box, though she expressed disappointment with the machine overall. The software updates and AI features are designed to streamline the user experience and provide more creative options for crafters. The machine's ability to work with Cricut Design Space is consistent with previous models, but the new AI features add a layer of sophistication that may appeal to users looking for more automated design creation capabilities.
Cutting performance and material compatibility
The Cricut Explore 5 maintains the same 12-inch cutting performance as previous Explore models, making it suitable for a wide range of materials including vinyl, HTV, paper, and some thicker materials like foam, wood veneer, and magnet sheets. The machine can cut all the same materials that previous Explore machines could cut, plus it has the ability to cut Smart materials without a mat. The new Deep Cutting Tool sold separately handles materials up to 1.5mm, which is a significant improvement over previous models that couldn't handle these materials without specialized blades. This allows users to tackle more complex projects involving thicker materials without needing to upgrade to a higher-tier machine like the Cricut Maker.
The machine's cutting performance is described as exceptional by Vinyl Cutting Machines, with the review giving it a 4.5 out of 5 stars for cut quality. The machine is designed to be a strong entry point for crafters who want full-size cutting capabilities without the need for the advanced features of the Maker line. The ability to cut materials up to 1.5mm with the Deep Cutting Tool makes it particularly appealing for users who want to work with more substantial materials. However, the single clamp system does mean that scoring and cutting in a single pass is no longer possible, which may be a drawback for users who frequently make greeting cards or boxes.
Tool compatibility and workflow changes
One of the most significant changes in the Explore 5 is the single clamp system, which replaces the previous dual clamp system that allowed for scoring and cutting in a single pass. This change has generated considerable discussion among users, with some finding it inconvenient. The new Scoring Tool is not compatible with the previous Explore 4's Scoring Stylus, meaning users upgrading from the Explore 4 will need to purchase the new Scoring Tool separately. Additionally, some older Cricut pens require a universal adapter (not included) to work in the new pen holder, which may be an inconvenience for users who already own compatible pens.
Jennifer Maker expressed disappointment with the single clamp system, noting that it requires users to swap tools mid-project when making scored-and-cut projects, which takes about 10 seconds. This is a noticeable step backwards for users who are accustomed to the one-pass workflow of the Explore 4. The single clamp system simplifies the machine design but at the cost of a smoother workflow for specific use cases involving scoring and cutting. However, Vinyl Cutting Machines suggests that for most crafters, this is not a huge issue, though it's certainly worth noting for those who frequently make projects requiring both scoring and cutting.
Price point and value proposition
The Cricut Explore 5 is positioned as the most affordable full-size Explore launch ever, with a base price of $199, which is $50 less than the Explore 4 at launch and $100 less than the Explore 3. This pricing strategy makes it an attractive option for crafters who want full-size cutting capabilities without the higher cost of the Maker line. The machine's compact design, new integrated blade system, and improved tool options all contribute to its value proposition. Vinyl Cutting Machines notes that the Explore 5 is the best starter Cricut they've seen, particularly for users who don't need to cut wood, leather, or unbacked fabric. The machine's ability to handle materials up to 1.5mm with the Deep Cutting Tool adds significant value for users who want to tackle more complex projects.
The machine's price point of $199 base (though Amazon only sells bundles at the time of writing) makes it accessible to a broader range of crafters. The inclusion of new features like the integrated blade system, snap-in pen holder, and Deep Cutting Tool in a more compact form factor represents a good value for users who want full-size cutting capabilities without the premium price tag of the Maker line. The machine's ability to cut materials up to 1.5mm with the Deep Cutting Tool is particularly appealing for users who want to work with thicker materials without upgrading to a higher-tier machine.
User experience and workflow considerations
The user experience with the Cricut Explore 5 is described as generally positive by Vinyl Cutting Machines, who found it to be a strong starter option for crafters who don't need the advanced features of the Maker line. The machine's compact design and modern aesthetic are noted as significant improvements over previous models. However, Jennifer Maker expressed disappointment with the machine overall, particularly citing issues with the single clamp system and tool compatibility.
The single clamp system requires users to swap tools mid-project when making scored-and-cut projects, which takes about 10 seconds. The machine's new integrated blade system simplifies blade replacement and improves safety by eliminating the need to handle tiny exposed blades. The snap-in pen holder is described as quick and satisfying to use, with a simple click mechanism for loading pens. Overall, the machine's design and features are intended to make it more accessible to beginners while still providing the cutting capabilities needed for a wide range of projects.
Target audience and suitability
The Cricut Explore 5 is positioned as an ideal entry point for crafters who want full-size cutting capabilities without the need for the advanced features of the Maker line. Vinyl Cutting Machines suggests that it's particularly suitable for vinyl crafter, sticker makers, card makers, or HTV enthusiasts who don't need to cut wood, leather, or unbacked fabric. The machine's compact design makes it ideal for shared or limited workspace environments, and its ability to cut materials up to 1.5mm with the Deep Cutting Tool adds significant value for users who want to tackle more complex projects. The machine's price point of $199 makes it accessible to a broader range of crafters, particularly those who are new to Cricut or looking to upgrade from an older model.
Jennifer Maker notes that the Explore 5 is designed for different types of crafters than the Joy 2, with the Explore 5 being better suited for users who want more cutting power and capabilities than the Joy series offers. The machine's ability to cut materials up to 1.5mm with the Deep Cutting Tool makes it particularly appealing for users who want to work with thicker materials without upgrading to a higher-tier machine. However, the single clamp system may be a drawback for users who frequently make greeting cards or boxes, as it requires tool swapping during projects. The machine's compact design and modern aesthetic make it suitable for users who want a more streamlined approach to crafting without sacrificing cutting capabilities.
Strengths
- +30% smaller footprint than Explore 4, measuring 19.8 × 7.5 × 4.7 inches
- +New integrated blade system simplifies blade replacement and improves safety
- +Snap-in pen holder provides quick and secure tool loading
- +Affordable entry point at $199 base price, $50 less than Explore 4 at launch
Watch-outs
- −Single clamp system requires tool swap during scored-and-cut projects
- −Older Scoring Stylus not compatible with new machine
How it compares
The Explore 5 is more compact and affordable than the Explore 4, but it lacks the dual-clamp system that makes the Explore 4 more efficient for scored-and-cut projects. Unlike the Maker 4, it doesn't offer engraving or debossing capabilities, making it less versatile for advanced crafting.
Rating sources
Our 4.5 score is the average of the 1 scored review above; 4 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. More about methodology.
