Cricut vs. Silhouette | A Comparison of the Differences + Which Machine Should You Buy?

Cricut vs Silhouette, which one is the right choice to buy? Let me help break down a comparison of the differences so you can fully decide with confidence which is a better machine for you. While the Cricut and Silhouette they do have some difference so if you learn the differences you can buy a machine that fits your exact needs.

Both of these machines are in high demand for all the crafters out there. You can make shirts designs, home decor pieces, and even items to sell in Etsy shops and more. Let me share all you need to know, to really find the machine that is going to get the job done that you need.

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Cricut Vs. Silhouette Breakdown

What Is A Cricut Machine

Depending on the model you get, you will find different results. Here is a general guide of what the Cricut is capable of. Cricut Explore Air is a die-cutting machine. This is similar to the concept of a printer but you create images and designs on your computer or tablet and it sends it to the machine. You can print on fabric, vinyl, cut paper, sticker paper, and so much more. Plus Cricut has a ton of accessories for all your crafting needs.

What is really nice about the Cricut is they use digital “cartridges” so you don’t need to have cartridges to use like in the olden days. It gives you a more virtual or digital way of crafting. You can even create your own images and designs which is really nice to have that freedom to create exactly what you want. You do have to use the internet to be able to access the images for download since it is all digital, this is one complaint some owners have.

What Can I Do With A Cricut Machine

Shapes and Images for Scrapbooking, cards, etc.
Create your own stencils
Cut vinyl for projects like wall decor, mixer designs, etc.
Labels for home goods
Make holiday gifts
T-shirt and clothing decals
Cupcake toppers, bunting birthday banners, etc.
Coaster designs
And so much more

What Is A Silhouette Machine

So the Silhouette is an electric cutting machine that is used for many projects. You simply plug the machine into your computer and load their software. Then you are able to pull images from their library, fonts, and more to create the designs you need for the project you are doing. You can use special pens to draw on paper, cut any type of paper, cardstock, vinyl, and more.

You can find deals and score freebies on designs from the Silhouette program that you can store in your virtual library. They do also have accessories you can buy to add even more project options for you.

What Can I Do With The Silhouette Machine

Make cards for any occasion, even 3D shaped cards
Custom apparel
Etched Glass projects
Create Vinyl wall decor
Temporary Tattoos
Scrapbook paper projects
Sketch designs on paper with pens
and so much more

What Machine Is Stronger, Cricut vs Silhouette

So the big question is which machine can really hold up through a lot of projects and come out on top. The Cricut tends to win on being a stronger machine. When compared to cutting the Cricut tends to be able to cut more materials with less issues. The Silhouette is known to jam and messes up, especially with vinyl projects.

Cricut tends to be called the workhorse but the Silhouette doesn’t fall too far behind. If you are planning to do a variety of projects and want that wider variety of options the Cricut might just be what you want.

Silhouette vs Cricut On Cutting Vinyl

Vinyl is a big one in terms of many projects, and that is one reason why many reach for one or both of these machines. Cricut again wins with fewer complications in cutting out the projects on vinyl or iron on fabric. The Silhouette tends to jam or move around and can ruin your Silhouette. I can attest to this, as I have used the Silhouette Cameo and struggled and wasted almost an entire roll for one simple project.

Cricut vs Silhouette In Terms Of Ease

There is less of a learning curve when it comes to the Cricut over the Silhouette software. But, again the one downfall that you will hear is you need internet for the Cricut. Both offer different designs and images you can buy for additional, so you have the freedom of creating exactly what you need.

Which Cutting Machine Is Best For Fabric

While you can use fabric in both, some lean towards the Silhouette for cutting fabric. You just have to remember neither of these are super heavy duty so if your fabric is too tough you might need a different machine. But basic fabric cutting, users will recommend Silhouette over Cricut.

Portability Silhouette vs. Cricut

Being able to move around your machine to fit your needs can be a huge asset. If you are on the hunt for a portable machine, here is the breakdown. The Cricut Maker can weigh around 24 pounds, so it is a bit heavier to tote around. While the Silhouette Cameo weighs around 9 pounds, you do have to take into effect the cords. You are able to have the option of Bluetooth which will allow you to operate without the cords. That being said, it can be a toss-up, but some prefer the Silhouette machine if they plan to be mobile vs stationary.

Materials You Can Cut In The Silhouette And Cricut Machines

Here is a breakdown of all the types of materials that the machine will allow you to cut. I might not mention all of them, but you will get a great guide to see the options you can take advantage of.

Cricut Machine

Burlap
Cardstock
Canvas
Aluminum Foil
Leather (1.4 mm, 2 and 8mm)
Bamboo Fabric
Acrylic Felt
Burn-out Velvet
Cashmere
Jute
And More

Silhouette Machine

Cardstock
Other Paper Products
Tissue Paper
Iron-On Transfers
Vinyl
Craft Foam
Light Fabric
Food Crafts like Fondant

So Which Is Better, Cricut vs Silhouette

So who is the winner, that is for you to decide? Overall, many reach for the Cricut Maker because it offers outstanding performance, flexibility in materials and features, and resources. The Silhouette doesn’t fall too far behind, so you might be just as content with this machine. It all truly depends on what you plan to use it for.

Do you have a preference in between the two?

October 26, 2018