Cheap Cricut MachinesBest Cheap Cricut Machines

Maria Stevens
13 min readSep 20, 2024

Are you looking for an affordable yet high-quality Cricut machine to help you create beautiful crafts, cards, and more? Look no further! In this article, we've round up the best cheap Cricut machines on the market, ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck without sacrificing quality or features. Get ready to unleash your creativity with our top picks for affordable Cricut machines.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive compensation through qualified purchases.

Reviews

Affordable Cricut Joy Xtra Sticker Making Kit

Affordable Cricut Joy Xtra Sticker Making Kit | Image

The versatile Cricut Joy Xtra offers a compact and stylish cutting machine that fits seamlessly into any space. With its ability to cut, write, draw, and foil, this smart tool is perfect for creating DIY planner stickers, classroom decorations, and more. The Cricut Joy Xtra is also Bluetooth enabled, making it a breeze to use with your home inkjet printer for full-color designs.

Affordable Cricut Joy Xtra: Perfect for DIY Crafting Projects

Affordable Cricut Joy Xtra: Perfect for DIY Crafting Projects | Image

The Cricut Joy Xtra is a compact and portable cutting machine, perfect for any crafting enthusiast. Equipped with the ability to cut, write, draw, and foil, it enables the creation of various projects like full-color stickers, custom cards, T-shirts, and more. Its user-friendly Design Space app, along with its Bluetooth connectivity, adds to the ease of the overall crafting experience. Users have praised its precision cutting capabilities and its lightweight and portable design, which allows them to take their creativity on-the-go. However, some users have experienced issues with calibration and connectivity, which may affect their overall satisfaction with the product.

Affordable Cricut Joy Machine: Personalized Creative Solutions for Homes and Small Business

Affordable Cricut Joy Machine: Personalized Creative Solutions for Homes and Small Business | Image

Experience the joy of the Cricut Joy + Insert Card Bundle, a fun and easy-to-use cutting and writing machine. This versatile tool allows you to personalize and customize your everyday life, from water bottle decals to kitchen labels and custom cards. The bundle comes equipped with everything you need to start making a difference right away, with a range of colorful card stock and envelopes, and the convenience of a quick-to-set-up machine. Enjoy a seamless user experience as you create unique projects in just minutes.

Cricut Joy Xtra - Complete Bundle with Subscription and Accessories

Cricut Joy Xtra — Complete Bundle with Subscription and Accessories | Image

Say goodbye to store runs and hello to endless possibilities with this all-inclusive Cricut Joy Xtra bundle. This compact smart cutting machine is perfect for tackling popular projects like full-color stickers, custom cards, and T-shirts. The bundle comes equipped with the machine, materials, tools, and a monthly subscription to Cricut Access, giving you access to even more pre-designed projects, images, and fonts. No design experience necessary, simply use the free Design Space app.

Discover the Cricut Maker Bundle in Champagne

Discover the Cricut Maker Bundle in Champagne | Image

With its advanced cutting technology, Cricut Maker effortlessly slices through various materials with up to 4 kg of force. Its suite of tools caters to beginners and professionals alike, producing remarkable projects for any occasion. The rotary and knife blades boast exceptional precision, while the digital sewing pattern library provides endless inspirational patterns. Users have praised the Maker's ease of use and fast performance, making it a cherished investment for crafters. Although some reports of weak durability exist, the overwhelming majority of customers find immense value in this reliable, versatile machine.

Smart Cricut Xtra Cutting Machine with Bundle for Hassle-Free Crafting

Smart Cricut Xtra Cutting Machine with Bundle for Hassle-Free Crafting | Image

Enhance your creative journey with Cricut Maker Bundle, a versatile and portable cutting machine that fits seamlessly into any space. This smart device not only cuts but also writes, draws, and applies foil for an extensive range of personalized projects like stickers, cards, labels, and vinyl decals. With its easy-to-use cricut companion app, you can bring your design ideas to life without any design or crafting experience. Savor the convenience of creating full-coloured, custom-shaped stickers, iron-on transfers, labels, and party decor at the touch of a button. The Cricut Maker Bundle is the perfect companion for your artistic adventures, regardless of your skill level.

Cricut Maker 3 Cutting Machine - Perfect for DIY Projects

Cricut Maker 3 Cutting Machine — Perfect for DIY Projects | Image

Experience the ultimate crafting machine with the Cricut Maker 3 Cutting Machine. This versatile tool offers precise cutting for over 300 materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock, and leather. Easy to use and set up, the Cricut Maker 3 is compatible with Bluetooth 3 and your home inkjet printer for seamless design creation and execution. Enjoy a variety of functions like writing, drawing, foil engraving, and embossing, all made possible by this cutting-edge technology. Customize your projects to your liking and enjoy the end result with a high-quality Cricut Maker 3 Die Cutting Machine.

Cricut Explore Air 2: Bluetooth Cutting Machine with 100+ Material Capabilities

Cricut Explore Air 2: Bluetooth Cutting Machine with 100+ Material Capabilities | Image

The Explore Air 2 Cutting Machine by Cricut is a versatile crafting companion that can handle over 100 materials, from cardstock to leather. It's equipped with a Fine-Point Blade for precise cutting, a Double tool holder for convenient use, and Smart Set dial for easy material settings. With its embedded Bluetooth, it offers wireless cutting capabilities and the ability to upload your own images. The included Cricut Design Space software and app lets you design on the go, while the machine itself is compact, sturdy, and easy to set up. Although it can be tricky to get the hang of for some, those who have mastered it swear by its impressive performance and the satisfaction it brings to cutting projects.

Cricut Joy Portable Cutting Machine: Custom Crafts at Your Fingertips

Cricut Joy Portable Cutting Machine: Custom Crafts at Your Fingertips | Image

Discover effortless creativity with the Cricut Joy cutting machine! Effortlessly switch between a blade for precision cutting and pens for drawing or writing. This portable wonder works wonders on paper, vinyl, and card stock, with a cutting range of up to 4 feet long or continuous cuts up to 20 feet long, all without needing a cutting mat! Included is an 8.5x4.25x5.5-inch machine, blade housing, a fine point pen, a StandardGrip mat, welcome card, power adapter, and free trial membership to Cricut Access. Ideal for crafters, this compact powerhouse seamlessly blends portability with impressive performance.

Easy-to-Use Cricut Joy Machine for Vinyl Projects

Easy-to-Use Cricut Joy Machine for Vinyl Projects | Image

Unleash your creativity with the Cricut Joy, a compact machine bringing endless possibilities to your DIY projects! Cut personalized designs onto water bottles, create custom decorations for your wall, or design iron-on decals for t-shirts - the limit is your imagination. Easily compatible with Cricut Smart materials, the Joy machine offers long-lasting and effortless cutting. In just 15 minutes, you can create a one-of-a-kind accessory or memento for yourself or a loved one. With user-friendly mechanics and access to various projects, experience the joy of crafting like never before!

Cricut Explore Air 2: Mint Cutting Machine for Creative Projects

Cricut Explore Air 2: Mint Cutting Machine for Creative Projects | Image

Elevate your DIY projects with the Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint. This cutting machine effortlessly handles various materials, from cardstock and vinyl to specialty options like glitter paper and bonded fabric. With access to thousands of images, fonts, and ready-to-make projects, along with the option to create your own designs, this versatile machine empowers you to bring your ideas to life. While some users may experience challenges with Bluetooth connectivity, the overall enjoyment and satisfaction with this machine's performance far outweigh any setbacks.

Cricut Explore 3: Versatile Electronic Cutting Machine for Papercraft and Vinyl Decals

Cricut Explore 3: Versatile Electronic Cutting Machine for Papercraft and Vinyl Decals | Image

The Cricut Explore 3 Machine is a convenient and easy-to-use tool for creating intricate designs and precision cuts on a variety of materials. With a Bluetooth connection and access to the Design Space app, you can create and print designs with ease. While it may be a bit laggy on some devices, it's easy to navigate and offers ample customization options. The machine comes with a USB cable, power adapter, and various pieces of practice material, as well as 100 ready-to-make projects online. It's a solid addition to any crafting arsenal, though it does have its share of quirks to work through.

Cricut Joy Trimmer for Precision Vinyl, Iron-On, Cardstock Designs

Cricut Joy Trimmer for Precision Vinyl, Iron-On, Cardstock Designs | Image

Introducing the ingenious Cricut Joy Die Cutting Machine, the compact and efficient helper for all your DIY projects. Perfect for personalizing, organizing, and customizing every day, this smart cutting and writing machine is a breeze to set up and use. Cut intricate designs with precision, and easily write, draw, or add foil to all your creations. With an impressive 4.5 rating across an astounding 596 reviews, the Cricut Joy has earned its reputation as a must-have tool for any craft enthusiast.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to our buyer's guide for affordable Cricut machines! In this section, we'll discuss the key features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a budget-friendly Cricut machine. We'll focus on the product category and avoid mentioning specific product picks or external resources.

Important Features to Consider

When looking for a cheap Cricut machine, consider the following features to ensure you get the best value for your money:

  1. Cutting Capacity: Check the maximum cutting width and depth of the machine to ensure it can handle various projects. 2. Type of Blade: Some economical Cricut machines come with rotary blades, while others have deep-cut blades. Rotary blades are suitable for cutting paper and fabric, while deep-cut blades can handle thicker materials like leather and vinyl. 3. Dimensions and Weight: Consider the size and weight of the machine to ensure it fits in your workspace and is easy to transport if needed.

Considerations Before Purchasing

Before finalizing your purchase, take into account the following considerations:

  1. Project Requirements: Assess your project needs, such as cutting intricate designs or creating multiple copies of the same design. This will help you determine the necessary features and accessories for your Cricut machine. 2. Budget: Be realistic with your budget and consider the long-term costs, including replacement blades, mats, and other consumables. 3. User-Friendliness: Look for machines with easy-to-use software, simple setup procedures, and clear instructions for operation.

General Advice for Affordable Cricut Machines

Here's some general advice to ensure you get the most out of your cheap Cricut machine:

  1. Practice Proper Maintenance: Regularly clean and lubricate the machine to maintain its performance and extend its life. 2. Familiarize Yourself with the Machine: Spend some time learning about the device's features and capabilities. This will help you utilize it efficiently and create better projects. 3. Explore Online Resources: Utilize free resources, tutorials, and forums to expand your knowledge and discover new projects to create with your Cricut machine.

Choosing the Right Cheap Cricut Machine for You

When selecting an affordable Cricut machine, weigh all the factors mentioned above and choose one that best fits your project requirements, budget, and user-friendliness preferences. Don't forget to read customer reviews, compare prices, and consider any warranties or return policies before making your purchase.

FAQ

What is a Cricut machine?

The Cricut machine is a cutting device that is popular among crafters for creating intricate designs and patterns on a variety of materials such as paper, cardstock, vinyl, and even fabric. It allows users to cut custom shapes, letters, and images, making it perfect for personalizing projects and creating unique designs.

The Cricut machine is designed to work with various Cricut cartridges, which can be purchased separately. These cartridges contain hundreds of pre-designed images, making it easy for users to create custom projects without needing any graphic design skills. Additionally, users can also upload their own images, giving them complete creative control over their projects.

Why should I consider a cheap Cricut machine?

A cheap Cricut machine is a perfect option for those who are new to the world of crafting or just want to try out the Cricut experience without breaking the bank. These machines offer most of the same features as their more expensive counterparts, but at a lower price point. They are great for hobbyists, students, or anyone who wants to explore the Cricut world without investing too much money.

Moreover, a cheaper Cricut machine is also an excellent choice for those who have limited space or don't want to commit to a larger, more expensive machine in case they decide not to use it as frequently or continue crafting in the long run. Ultimately, a cheap Cricut machine provides a cost-effective way to introduce users to the world of crafting and design without sacrificing functionality and quality.

What are the best cheap Cricut machines currently available?

Based on customer reviews and features, the best cheap Cricut machines currently available are the Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy, and Cricut Explore Air 2. All three machines have their unique features and capabilities, making them ideal for different types of projects and users. The Cricut Maker is a powerful machine designed for handling various materials, while the Cricut Joy is compact and perfect for smaller projects and on-the-go crafting. The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a versatile machine that offers a wide range of cutting options and is suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters.

It's essential to research each machine thoroughly to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Additionally, consider the materials you'll be cutting, the size of your projects, and the type of cartridges you plan on using to make an informed decision. All three machines offer great value for money, making them excellent choices for anyone looking for a cheap Cricut machine.

What are the differences between the Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy, and Cricut Explore Air 2?

The Cricut Maker, Cricut Joy, and Cricut Explore Air 2 have some similarities but also differ in terms of features, cutting capabilities, and design. Here's a brief overview of the differences between these machines to help you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences:

  1. Cricut Maker: This machine is designed for handling various materials such as paper, cardstock, vinyl, and even fabric. It has a multi-functional cutting system that includes a rotary blade, a knife blade, and an additional cutting wheel for fine and detailed cuts. Users can also purchase additional tools and blades to expand the machine's capabilities. 2. Cricut Joy: This compact machine is perfect for smaller projects and on-the-go crafting. It's designed to work with a single cartridge at a time and can handle materials up to 200gsm. It also features a contour cutting system that allows users to create detailed designs with intricate lines and curves. 3. Cricut Explore Air 2: This versatile machine offers a wide range of cutting options and is suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters. It can handle materials up to 120gsm and features a precision cutting system that allows users to create detailed designs with intricate lines and curves. Additionally, it has a built-in smart set dial that makes it easy to switch between cutting materials and tools.

Consider your crafting needs and personal preferences when choosing between these machines. If you're looking for a powerful machine that can handle a variety of materials, the Cricut Maker is an excellent choice. If you're short on space or need a machine for smaller projects, the Cricut Joy is perfect. And if you're looking for a versatile machine that offers a range of cutting options and is easy to use, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is an excellent choice.

What materials can I cut with a Cricut machine?

Cricut machines can cut a wide range of materials, making them suitable for a variety of crafting projects. Some of the most popular materials that can be cut with a Cricut machine include paper, cardstock, vinyl, adhesive foil, iron-on transfer paper, magnetic material, and even fabric. Different machines have different cutting capabilities, so it's essential to research the specific machine you're interested in to ensure it can handle the materials you plan on using.

Additionally, it's also important to note that some materials may require additional tools, blades, or cartridges to be cut with a Cricut machine. For example, the Cricut Maker is designed to work with a variety of blades and tools that can handle materials such as leather, canvas, and even burlap. Always check the specifications of your machine and the materials you plan on cutting to ensure a successful and safe cutting experience.

How much do cheap Cricut machines typically cost?

The cost of a cheap Cricut machine can vary depending on the specific machine and its features. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a high-quality, affordable Cricut machine. The Cricut Joy is the most affordable option, typically costing around $199, while the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Air 2 are slightly more expensive, costing around $299 and $279, respectively. However, prices may vary based on the availability of the machine, any promotions or discounts, and the materials or accessories you plan on purchasing.

It's essential to shop around and compare prices from various retailers to find the best deal on a cheap Cricut machine. Additionally, always read customer reviews and check the specifications of the machine to ensure it meets your needs and budget before making a purchase. With a bit of research, you can find a high-quality, affordable Cricut machine that will help you create beautiful and unique crafting projects.

As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive compensation through qualified purchases.

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