Hi Daydreamers!
Today I want to tell you everything you need to know about Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Air 2 before you hit that buy button.
Before I got my Cricut I had so many questions. I read multiple articles, watched tons of YouTube videos, and there were still many questions.
In this article, you will learn all of the differences between these two machines!
My very first post about the Cricut Machines was after buying the Cricut Explore Air 2. On that post, I was answering all of the questions I had – 50+ – before I decided to buy and get into the Cricut World. It’s very informative, and if you have not idea what a Cricut is I totally recommend you to read it.
I said before I wasn’t going to get a Maker, because I just wanted to cut paper, and I wanted more money for other materials… So before I tell you all of the differences – And after I swallow my own words lol – If I could go back in time, I would’ve bought the Cricut Maker in the first place.
I don’t want to predispose you, but this is how I feel… But keep an open mind and learn if we both agree or disagree… Savvy?
Disclosure: I love the Cricut Brand and all of the things that come with it, I feel that as a crafter I have more good than bad things to say.
Although I make a small commission when you buy through my links. This is not a sponsored post, I bought both machines on my own money along with other materials and other and accessories you see here.
Are you ready? Let’s dig in
Quick differences between Explore Air Family Machines
Although this post is mainly directed to the Cricut Maker vs Explore Air 2 because those are the machines I happen to have on hand; there are two other versions of the Explore machines that you may want to consider as well.
All of the Cricut Explore Family machines can cut the same materials, and use the same tools. However, each one of them has different features.
- Cricut Explore One: Firstborn of the Explore family and only has one tool holder so you cut and draw, score separately. You need to connect it with a cable to your computer or buy a separate adapter.
- Cricut Explore Air: Has Bluetooth (This is a must for me I don’t like having a cord attached to my computer) and both tool holders so you can cut and draw at the same time!
- Cricut Explore Air 2: Has the same capabilities, that the explore air but it’s 2 times faster.
Check Out Prices and a Comparison chart on Cricut’s Website
What do the Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2 have in Common?
The Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2 are both EXCELLENT machines. You can feel the quality; everything seems so sturdy and well made. I am quite impressed.
You won’t be disappointed. Every time I have ordered from Cricut everything is packed to perfection and you can just feel that they truly care for what they do.
With both machines you will have:
- Both machines work with the same software Cricut Design Space for free
- Upload your own personalized designs and projects
- FREE Ready to cut projects: Each machine comes with more than 50 free projects. Normally ready to cut projects cost money that you can get access by individual purchase or via a monthly or yearly subscription called Cricut Access
- They both can cut more than 100 materials – the MOST common ones – including paper, vinyl, fabric, leather, etc! To see the whole materials check out the full Cricut Guide.
- With both machines, you can Cut, Draw and Score.
- Both Machines come with a first Project for you to get familiar with your machine
What are the differences between the Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2?
The biggest difference between the Cricut Maker and any of the Cricut Explore machines is the cutting force. The Cricut Maker has 10X the strength and cutting force than any of the Explore family machines.
The cutting force of the Cricut Explore Air 2 is 400 grams and the Cricut Maker’s cutting force is 4000 grams. THIS IS A HUGE AND GIGANTIC STEP, and because of this force, you are now able to use more powerful tools and more complex materials.
Cricut Maker 
Cricut Explore Air 2
Think of it like the force and pressure you need to apply when you cut a tomato vs a big sweet potato. The harder the material – sweet potato – the most pressure and even bigger knife you will need to succeed.
By adding 10 times the strength Cricut has been able to add more powerful tools to cut more complex materials, like wood, fabric without backing material, etc.
Check out the following table and then let’s chat a little bit more about some of the different tools you can use with either the Maker or Explore
| Feature | Maker | Explore Air 2 |
| Cutting Force | 4 kg | 400 gr |
| Technology | Adaptive tool system | Smart Set Dial |
| Max Cutting Size | 12 x 24 inches | 12 x 24 inches |
| Cartridge Slot | No – Needs Adapter | Yes |
| Software | Cricut Design Space | Cricut Design Space |
| Color | Blue Rose Champagne Lilac Mint | Pink, Mint, Black, Blue, Red, more! |
| Weight | 24 Pounds | 16 Pound |
| Dimensions | 24 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches | 22.6 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches |
| Max Depth Cut* | Up to 2.4 mm | Up 2 mm |
| Fine Point Blade | Yes | Yes |
| Deep Point Blade | Yes | Yes |
| Bonded Fabric Blade | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Blade | Yes | No |
| Knife Blade | Yes | No |
| Quick Swap Tools | Yes | No |
| Cricut Pens | Yes | Yes |
| Scoring Stylus | Yes | Yes |
| Print then Cut | Different Colors | White Only |
| Cut | Yes | Yes |
| Draw | Yes | Yes |
| Check out Prices | Cricut Maker | Explore Air 2 |
*It depends on the type of material and/or blade.
Different tools you can use with the Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Air 2
This is where things start to get better!
We just talked about the cutting force and how important it is to be able to cut strong materials. Now, what you need to consider are the tools you need to cut different types of materials.
I think the best way to explain this is by using examples of different knives you use when you are cooking. When you need to spread something you use a butter knife when you are cutting bread, a bread knife is better, and we all know the importance of a steak knife when we cutting and eating meat.
Could you get away with cutting bread with a butter knife? Maybe, but your bread will be tear apart. The same will happen with other different types of knives.
The same thing happens with the Cricut. You may think that after getting a Cricut you can cut everything with the same blade but that’s not possible. Each blade has been designed to cut different types of materials under different types of pressure.
At the moment there 5 different blades and different accessories to either score or draw with your Cricut.
What tools does the Cricut Explore Air 2 support?
Check out an overview of all of the tools you can use with any of the Cricut Explore family machines.
Fine Point Blade
The fine point blade is the most common blade and it comes with all of the Cricut Machines. It’s made out of German Carbide, which an extremely durable and high-quality material most commonly used for cutting tools materials.
This blade is perfect for making intricate cuts and it’s designed to cut medium-weight materials. It used to be silver, but it now comes in a beautiful golden color.
Although I just got my maker and it came in silver?
Deep Point Blade
If you need to cut thicker materials, the Deep Point Blade will be your best friend. You can use it with any of the Cricut Explore Family machines and/or Cricut Maker!
The angle of this blade is so much steeper – 60 degrees compared to 45 degrees for the fine point blade – This really allows the blade to penetrate and cut intricate cuts in thick materials.
Bonded Fabric Blade
The Bonded Fabric Blade was specifically designed to cut fabric. Don’t use this blade for any other type of material. You will ruin your blade!
There’s a big caveat with this blade though. The fabric you are going to cut needs to be bonded to a backing material. If you are a sewer you might know what bonded fabric, but if are like me and have no prior experience with fabrics, let me explain to you real quick.
Basically, the backing is a type of material – like heat & bond – that you need to adhere – bond – to your fabrics in order to be cut with this blade, hence the name Bonded Fabric Blade.
Scoring Stylus
The Scoring Stylus is a tool that allows you to created folds on your materials. It’s perfect for making boxes and card making.
Cricut Pens
The Cricut Pens are amazing, because not only you can cut and score, but you can also write on your materials. The Pens allow you to create a more personalized project.
Print Then Cut
This is not the tool itself but is a feature that allows you to print – on white color paper – your designs and then cut them. This is great if you are into planner stickers, patterns, card making, etc.
What tools does the Cricut Maker support?
The Cricut Maker supports everything! Check out all of the details so you see the potential of this machine.
All of the Cricut Explore Air 2 blades & tools
The Cricut Maker allows you to use all of the available tools and features of the explore and this is why I get more inclined to recommend the Maker. I know it’s more expensive but you get to grow with your machine because rumor has it that there are more tools coming up soon.
Note: the Print Then Cut option allows you to print on colored paper!
Rotary Blade
The Rotary Blade cuts through, pretty much, any type of fabric. And the best of all, you don’t need any backing material to stabilize the fabric on the mat. That alone should get you super happy!
This blade also comes with the Cricut Maker (this is a big deal because you normally have to buy these sorts of tools separately or in a bundle) and can only be used with the Fabric Grip Mat.
Knife Blade
This blade is what makes the Cricut Maker a total making machine. The knife blade is the strongest of all and with it, you can cut really strong materials such as thick leather, balsa, and basswood.
The projects you can do with this baby are just amazing. You can create wood signs for your home, boxes, extremely sturdy cake toppers and more.
Quick Swap Tools
Unlike the rest of the blades that have a different housing, The QuickSwap system allows you to use five different tools (2 blades, and 3 tips)
- Scoring Tip
- Engraving Tip
- Debossing Tip
- Wavy Blade
- Perforation Blade
Something cool, and that I am quite thankful for is that you can use all of these tools with the same housing and that my friend equals savings!
Let’s see a little bit more about all of these tools.
The Scoring Wheel is a tool that allows you to create beautiful, edgy, and crispy folds on your materials. To give you the best results, Cricut has designed The Scoring Wheel with two different tips, 01 and 02. Depending on the material you select, Design Space will suggest you the tip you need.
The Engraving Tip is something that many crafters have been waiting for! With this tool, you’ll be able to engrave a wide variety of materials.
The Debossing Tip will push the material in, and it will create beautiful and detailed designs. The debossing will bring your projects to a whole new level because of the detail you can now add to your designs.
With the Wavy Blade instead of cutting on straight lines like the rotary or fine point blade, this tool will create wavy effects on your final cuts.
The Perforation Blade allows you to create projects with a tear finish. With this tool, a new world of possibilities has open. You can create coupons, raffle tickets, etc!
Physical Differences between the Maker and Explore Air 2
I actually think that the Cricut Explore Air 2 looks better than the Cricut Maker. They are both lovely but there are just some details that I like better from the explore air.
I know this is silly… But it’s what I think!
Most of them were mentioned on the comparison table. However, let’s chat a little bit more about some of the physical differences.
Weight & Color: the Cricut Explore Air 2 comes in so many colors, but the maker only comes with 3. Champagne, Blue, and green. I got a Mint Color for the Explore and Rose for my Maker
Storage Space: I like being able to store all of my blades and weeding tools on the machine itself. Both machines have good storage for the tools and blades that they are capable of using. The Maker has way more storage than the explore, I like this because I am able to store more goodies in it.
Cartridge Slot: In the past, you could buy physical Cartridges and connect them with your machine. A Cartridge is a set of images and/or ready to cut projects; now all of these Cartridges can be bought inside the software itself, so that’s why the Maker doesn’t have a slot for them.
More Storage 
No Dial on the Maker
Smart Set Dial: The Smart Dial allows you to pick from a range of materials before you cut. I LOVE this because it has the most common materials for you to choose from. Some people prefer to select them on the software. I PREFER the dial.
Adaptive Tool System: This system is what makes the Maker 10X stronger than any of the Explore Family Machines. This technology controls the direction and of the blade at all times. In fact, This tool is so amazing that it can adjust the pressure of the blade to match the materials you are working with!
Smart Set Dial 
Adaptive Tool System
Docking Station: The Maker allows you to dock your phone or Ipad on top of the machine. If you plan on using your Ipad or Phone, this is a cool feature. There’s also a USB port that allows you to charge your device as well.
Should you get the Explore Air 2 or Maker?
If you haven’t purchased your machine I would truly encourage you to get the Maker. I know it’s more expensive – 100 to 150 dollars more – but there are so many things going on for the Cricut Maker that I don’t want you to feel like you are missing out.
I got the Explore Air 2 first because I work with paper and vinyl most of the time, but at some point, I still wanted some of the other things that the Maker is able to do like cutting fabric without backing material, wood, and making perfect and sharp folds on dense materials.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is an excellent machine, It is beautiful and if you already have one you don’t have to go and run to get the Maker.
Here’s the thing; I mainly got it because it’s my line of work and I want to make sure I provide you tutorials for both machines as I need to keep my website up to date.
If you are going to stick to only paper, vinyl and other thin materials, sure go for the Explore Air 2. But if it comes to mind that you will update your machine in the future because you may want to cut wood, and other thicker materials just wait a couple of weeks until you have a little bit more money.
In my first article, I said you should get a machine that allows you to buy extra materials because they can be expensive. I still believe that, but I also believe that you can get around by practicing with paper and then as time goes on you can invest in other tools or materials.
At the end of the day, the money is coming out of your pocket. So ask yourself, what do you really want from this machine?
I can’t answer that for you, however, I really hope you can make a wise decision by reading this post.
Should you get a bundle or a machine?
Both times I got my machines I got a bundle! If you actually look at the price of the machine individually and the bundles, you’ll see that you are getting so much more value for your money.
I think a bundle is a great way for you to get you started. Normally you have bundles that come with different types of blades and a few materials; or some other bundles that come with just materials.
The first bundle I got – on amazon – was a mixture between tools and materials, and the second one – from Cricut’s website – was everything materials because I already had the blades and other important tools.
If you are starting from zero I recommend you to get a bundle that has a little bit of everything, and then expand as you go. These things can get quite expensive.
If you don’t know what materials or tools you need, make sure to check this super useful guide!
Here are some really cool bundles to get started with:
- Cricut Explore Air 2: It comes with a fine point and deep point blade a lot of extra goodies – materials and tools – for you to get started!
- Cricut Maker: This bundle is the one I got and it comes with the fine point blade and rotary blade PLUS TONS OF MATERIALS! However, it doesn’t come with the essential tools. If you don’t have them make sure to add them to your shopping cart.
Learning how to use your Cricut Maker or Explore
If you decide to buy a Cricut you may feel intimated at first by their software.
This machine comes with a learning curve. However, don’t be discouraged I went through the same thing and this is why I have written multiple articles to help you with your Cricut Journey!
- Learn how to use Design Space from beginning to end
- Learn how to use your Design Space from your iPhone/Ipad
- Check out all of my other Cricut Blog posts
Oh! And just so you know, I also have a FREE growing library with tons of printables and SVG files ready to be cut.
I would love for you to be able to get access to all of them. It’s 100% Free for my daydreamers (aka subscribers) check out a live preview here, or get access here.
So…
This is it, I really hope this article helps you to make the right decision. Whether it is the Maker or the Explore Air 2. I am sure you will be amazed at all of the projects you can make.
If you like this post and think someone else could benefit from it, make sure to post it on your favorite social media, by doing so, you aren’t only helping someone else to learn and find cool resources, but you are also supporting my work.
Paula Jackson says
Hi I am going to purchase a cricut today, however I know you said the maker is the better choice ( I may get one later lol). However, the explorer is more up to date as far as blue tooth (wireless), the fabric dial and it can also do T-Shirts just fine, correct? For this first year, I will be using it mainly to make T-Shirts, Cards using mostly vinyl and the infusion process. So would it be fair to say that I can do that with an cricut explorer 2? I also thought the newer one would be better as I thought they would add improvements over the older one lol smh…guess not though. However smh I really want both but I know I also have to buy the press, so I am limited as my total budget is $500.
Thanks for your help and insight looking forward to your comments
Catalina says
Hi Paula, if your focus is vinyl, and infusible ink the Explore can do that no problem. For paper though, the maker has these amazing tools that allow you to do raffle ticket effects, edgy score lines. I know your budget is only 500. But if you can wait to get the press and get started with an Iron (read my Iron-On tutorial) I will highly recommend you go for the Maker.
However, it’s your decision, I love the Explore too and is a great machine as well. If you need simple paper cutting the Explore is an excellent machine!
I hope this helps 🙂
Deb says
I just picked up a Maker and I’m devastated to learn that I cannot cut and use the scoring wheel at the same time. Is there a workaround for this? Most of my projects involve both and I feel so disappointed.
Catalina says
Yes, you can! You just need to change the tool. Check out my Scoring Wheel tutorial.
Aja says
Hello. Thank you for this post. It’s very informative! I’m trying to buy a circuit but mostly just for cake toppers with glitter paper and maybe occasionally for fabric.
Which one would you recommend?
Catalina says
If you plan on using a lot of fabric I will recommend the maker. Cardstock can be cut with either machine. However, the scorelines with on glitter cardstock are better with the Scoring Wheel. If you have the budget go for the Maker :).
Mary says
This is a great informative blog, I have learned so much. It was and has been very hard to decide which machine to use or purchase. I have read many other posts in regards to the cricut maker having many glitches due to the release rush before Christmas I believe this was maybe a year or two ago, not really sure. My question is, do you know if they have updated this since approx 2 yrs ago?
Thank you for the time it took you to do this post its really appreciated,
Mary Reid
Catalina says
Hi Mary! I’ve had the Maker for over a year now, and I haven’t had any problem whatsoever, I also read that review you’re talking about, it’s scary! I went with what most reviews said, and after a year I got to the conclusion I love my machine. Read my Cricut Maker Review.
Harp says
Hi there, I just read your blog and I’m a little confused with the white ink and white paper part for the air 2. Does this mean you can only write with white ink? You can’t use other colours or papers? Sorry if this is a silly question, don’t own a Cricut yet, just want to know all the details before making a decision.
Thank you
Catalina says
Exactly. The sensor’s more powerful on the Cricut Maker. You can only Print then Cut on the Explore machine when using white paper.
Shey says
I’m interested in buying a cricut machine as I’ve seen the possibilities are endless for a crafter! I want to be able to print Projects in color. I’m interested in all kinds of materials so I’m leaning towards the maker. Did I read on your review correctly that only the explore does that?
Catalina says
I corrected the table! Thank you for pointing out the mistake.
Alice Esposito says
This was very helpful thank you! I’m thinking of the Maker as I will mostly be cutting leather – does that sound like the right one to go for? Can it do multiple cuttings from the one sheet?
Catalina says
Hi Alice! You can cut leather with both machines can cut genuine leather. However, the Maker can cut up to 2.4mm in thickness. The Explorer can only cut up to 2mm.
Jennifer says
I really really really wish I found your post before I bought the explore air 2 (i bought it less than 5 days ago and used it one time). Your article was so informative that I realize I made the wrong decision. I was blindsided by my ancient cricut dying and salvaging my investment in the cartridges. Thank you for your informative posts.
Catalina says
Hi Jennifer! I understand where you are coming from. Don’t dismay, though. Most projects I’ve made so far can be made with the Explore Air 2. It’s a beautiful machine, still! I also started with that one!
Sunny says
I was a little confused with the post about the part with the white paper and colored paper for print then cut. On the comparison chart you stated the air 2 can do colored but the maker did only white, but when you spoke on the cricut maker you stated it can do colored as a side note. So which one can only do white paper for the print then cut method
Catalina says
hi Sunny! Thank you for pointing out the mistake! I’ll correct it right away!
Missy says
Thank you for all the helpful information! Your site helped me with my decision and I can’t wait to use my new Explore Air 2! Thanks again!
Catalina says
So happy for you!
McKenna says
How does the maker do with felt? Just the normal cheap felt from a craft store for a toddler quiet time book? I’ve heard controversial things about it working okay? Have you tried this before? Thanks for the article! Very informative.
Catalina says
Hi, I haven’t cut felt yet but I see people doing it all the time. I think it will work great. I have a how to do a quiet book tutorial coming up soon.
patrick bettens says
Hello,
I want to cut texts with the machine. Is there a minimum height the fonts should be to be able to cut them ?
Catalina says
Hi Patrick,
I wouldn’t cut something that is less than a third of an inch. It also depends the materials and blades you are using.
Nadine says
Hi I having been trying to figure out which one of the cricut I should get awhile now , reading this guide would help me make my final decision. There’s one thing i would love to get answered what’s the difference between the cricut maker machine bundle1 on Amazon and the cricut bundle everything maker on Cricut sight?
Catalina says
I prefer the bundle from Cricut.com plus the essential tool set. You get so many more materials than the bundle from Amazon.
Aria says
Hello Catalina,
I’ve been considering buying a cricut machine and this post provided me with great information and comparison! I’m actually also thinking of using some vinyl paper on my cricut for coffee mugs and wine/champagne glasses. I read somewhere about the harm in using vinyl and the dangerous fumes/gasses/PVC associated with vinyl, and wanted your take on it.
Look forward to hearing from you and more power to your business!
Thanks!
Aria
Catalina says
Hi Aria, vinyl is not food safe and it should be used outside the mug. As long as you do that I think you should be fine!
Traci says
I first purchased the Air 2, thinking it was all I needed. Figured out how wrong I was very early in my Cricut-gasm. I was cheap and wanted to save money. Lol
Now I have 2 Cricuts and zero therapy expenses!!
Must love crafting!
BTW… great comparisons!
Catalina says
Traci! I did the same thing too! I love having both machines though because I want to always consider my Explorers!
Angela Jarman says
All the extra force that the Maker is capable of is only available when using the knife blade though, correct?
That’s what I heard, that that’s the only way to get the most force out of it and you can’t manually set it to use more force with any other blade, which was kind of a disappointment to hear because the knife blade can’t cut designs as intricate as the others and only needed for the really thick strong materials.
Now, the rotary fabric blade is a newer thing and so maybe that uses more force than the Explore Air but I’m having a hard time finding information on it.
Catalina says
Hi Angela!
The 10X Force comes with all of the new tools: knife blade, rotary blade, and scoring wheel!
I understand your frustration. Maybe at some point they will come up with a blade for more intricate cuts.have you tried the deep point blade? It’s quite strong as well.
Not for very strong materials though.
Check out other of my articles where I explain more about the blades!
Have a lovely day!
There are more tools coming up.
Angela Jarman says
Good to know that pressure comes with the rotary blade 🙂 I wonder how intricate it can get with it, and excited to hear there are more tools on the way. I haven’t gotten the Maker yet, I’ve been planning on it but wanted to make sure that it was worth getting that one versus the Air.
If they could come out with a blade for intricate cuts using all the extra force, I think sales would be even higher.
Catalina says
Hi Angela! Yes all of the new tools for the Maker have that pressure.
Yes rumor has it that there are other tools coming up, so don’t lose hope! Also, to reply your question the Rotary Blade allows you to cut up 3/4″ and larger images! If you don’t own a Cricut yet, I would go for the Maker because of all of the possibilities you have! Although the Explore is amazing too!
Stacey says
This was great because I was thinking about maybe getting a maker, but after reading the breakdown and watching your video, I really can’t foresee myself doing anything with fabric or wood. Now, if it suddenly sews for us, then I’ll be all over it. LOL.
Catalina says
Hi Stacey!
I am glad you were able to make a decision! That’s what I am here for.
I am happy to see I can help you out on your Cricut Journey!
Cat
Rosa says
This was amazing. I have been checking out both machines and a friend also told me that the Cricut maker was a must to buy first. Now I am really convinced now. You just gave me all the answers I needed for my first buy. Thank you so much. Very informative.
Catalina says
Hi Rosa I am very glad this post helped you to find out which Cricut was the best option for you!