Sizzix vs Cricut: Picking the Perfect & Best Die Cutting machine for your project needs
For the crafting enthusiast or a seasoned DIYer such as myself, you know how crucial it is to have a reliable die cutter for your paper crafts and die cutting projects. Picking out the best die cutting machine can be overwhelming!
Fortunately, I’ve done the research for you in a condensed post here, so you don’t have to!
Two popular contenders in the market are the Cricut and the (Electric version) Sizzix machine. Which of these two is the right one for you? Lets compare these die cutters to help you make an informed decision on selecting the best die cutter and ultimately which one is better suited for your crafting needs based on a couple of criteria.
While I love and have tried all of the cutting machines available, I hands-down love the Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus. Check out my review for this machine.
Cricut (Any of their machines) | Sizzix (Electric version only) |
Overview: Cricut machines have earned a stellar reputation for their user-friendly approach and wide range of cutting capabilities. These electronic die-cutters offer a plethora of design options and innovative features to enhance your paper crafting experience. | Overview: Electric Sizzix machines, like the Big Shot Switch Plus, are manual die-cutters with added electronic features. They offer precision cutting and embossing capabilities, making them a favorite among traditional crafters. |
Cost: Cricut Maker® 3 $429.99 Cricut Explore® 3 $319.99 Cricut Joy™ $169.99 | Cost: Sizzix® Big Shot Switch Plus $330 – $449.99 |
PROS Ease of Use: Cricut machines are lauded for their intuitive software and interface, making them ideal for beginners and experienced crafters alike. The accompanying software, Cricut Design Space, is user-friendly and allows for easy customization of designs. Extensive Design Library: Cricut boasts an extensive design library with thousands of ready-to-use images and fonts. With a Cricut Access subscription, you gain access to a vast collection of premium designs, fonts, and projects. Wireless Connectivity: Many Cricut models offer Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless cutting and eliminating the need for cumbersome cords. | PROS Ease of Use: Electric Sizzix machines provide precise and clean cuts, ensuring your paper crafts have a professional finish. Just a button press is required. Pressing the button again reverses the board, ensuring that a clean cut is made with the selected dies. No Internet Dependency: Electric Sizzix machines do not rely on internet connectivity, allowing you to craft without being tied to an online platform. No Software Dependency: Simply place the dies and embossing folders anywhere on the cutting pads and run them through for a clean cut. Extensive Die & Embossing library: These are sold separately. There are thousands of dies to choose from. Using these allow for quicker crafting projects. |
CONS Internet Dependency: Cricut Design Space requires an internet connection to access and save designs. Working offline might limit access to some features and designs. Subscription Costs: While the basic design library is included, premium designs and fonts may require a Cricut Access subscription, adding to your crafting expenses. | CONS Limited Cutting Area: Electric Sizzix machines generally have smaller cutting platforms compared to some Cricut models, which might limit the size of your projects. Purchasing Dies Separately: Unlike the Cricut, which you can design what you want through a software application, the Sizzix uses physical cutting dies & embossing folders which need to be purchased separately. |
Which is the best die cutter for Paper Crafts and Die Cutting?
The choice between the Cricut machine and the Electric Sizzix machine boils down to your crafting preferences and priorities. If you value a vast design library, wireless connectivity, and versatility in cutting various materials, the Cricut machine might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you prefer precise manual die-cutting, compatibility with Sizzix dies, and less reliance on the internet, the Electric Sizzix machine, like the Big Shot Switch Plus, could be the perfect fit for your paper crafts.
Ultimately, both machines offer exceptional features that can certainly help with your paper crafting projects, so consider your needs and crafting style to make the best decision in selecting the best die cutter for your creative journey. Hopefully this post has helped you narrow down in selecting the best die cutting machine for your project needs!