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Short answer: Cricut launched the Explore 4 and Maker 4 on February 27, 2025, claiming up to twice the cutting speed of their predecessors on certain mat-based materials and setting lower launch prices than the previous generation. In August 2026, the Maker 4 remains Cricut’s advanced model, but the Explore 5 has replaced Explore 4 as the newer Explore option. For common home projects such as labels, cards, decals and shirts, compare Explore 5 first; consider Explore 4 only if it is substantially discounted. Choose Maker 4 if you expect to use its broader range of materials and tools.
Prices and availability below reflect Cricut’s U.S. listings observed August 16, 2026; they can change. The launch prices refer to the U.S. prices announced in February 2025.
What Cricut announced in 2025
Cricut announced the Explore 4 and Maker 4 on February 27, 2025, with U.S. and Canadian availability beginning February 28 through Cricut.com and Michaels. The launch colors were Seashell and Sage; Cricut said Sage was exclusive to a Michaels bundle. Cricut’s announcement positioned both as faster successors with more included starter materials and lower launch prices than their predecessors.
| Machine | U.S. launch price | What that price means |
|---|---|---|
| Explore 4 | $249.99 | Launch price, below the previous generation’s launch price |
| Maker 4 | $399.99 | Launch price, below the previous generation’s launch price |
Those are historical launch figures, not promises of current retail pricing. Cricut’s launch-price FAQ confirms the amounts. Current offers, bundles, taxes, shipping and stock differ by retailer and date.
#1 Best Overall
- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Essential Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. It's enough supplies to create up to 65 projects. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
What “up to twice as fast” does—and doesn’t—mean
Cricut’s speed claim applies to cutting materials such as cardstock and vinyl on a machine mat, and is “up to” twice the predecessor’s speed. It is not a promise that every cut or finished project takes half as long. The actual cut time depends on the design, material, tool, pressure and mat, while intricate designs may require many passes or careful handling.
Project time also includes designing, loading and unloading material, changing tools, weeding vinyl, pressing iron-on designs, and assembling the finished item. Those steps are not automatically accelerated by a faster cutter. For a large or detailed project, setup and finishing can outweigh the time saved at the cutting stage.
Explore 4 versus Maker 4
The key difference is the range of materials and tools, not simply speed. Cricut lists Explore 4 as compatible with 100-plus materials and Maker 4 with 300-plus. These are manufacturer compatibility counts, not a guarantee that every material is equally straightforward to use or that every required tool comes in the box. Cricut’s machine information describes the broader Maker range and project capabilities.
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- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Deluxe Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. It's enough supplies to create up to 100 projects. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
| Consider | Explore 4 | Maker 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical fit | Decals, labels, cards, stickers, iron-on apparel and everyday personalization | Common Explore projects plus broader material and tool work |
| Material range | 100-plus materials, according to Cricut | 300-plus materials, according to Cricut |
| Advanced uses | Not the choice for Maker-level tool compatibility | Projects can include fabric, leather, wood, engraved metal and debossed leather, using compatible tools |
| Project scale | Approximately 11.7 inches wide by up to 12 feet long in supported configurations | Approximately 11.7 inches wide by up to 12 feet long in supported configurations |
Both are 12-inch-class machines, but maximum dimensions are configuration- and material-dependent. Smart Materials can enable long, matless cuts; not every material or tool supports the same setup. The Maker’s wider capabilities are most valuable when you have specific projects in mind or want room to explore more materials. They are less compelling if you expect to make only occasional labels and cards.
Starter materials and software
Cricut promoted a more generous starter package with materials and accessories that can include Smart Vinyl, cardstock, Smart Iron-On, transfer tape, a Mini Weeder, a LightGrip mat, machine tools and setup materials. Package contents vary by machine and bundle. Cricut estimated that the included materials could support up to 10 projects, based on an average project size of 4 by 6 inches. Treat that as a manufacturer estimate, not a promise of ten shirts, signs or waste-heavy designs.
The machines work through Cricut Design Space, which Cricut promoted with a guided first project and clearer Design, Cut and Assemble stages. Software features and device compatibility are distinct from what the machine can physically cut. Check Cricut’s current machine and system information before buying; Design Space use requires a compatible phone, tablet or computer, and relevant functions depend on Bluetooth and high-speed internet.
Rank #3
- BUNDLE INCLUDES – Cricut Maker 4, Fine-Point Blade, Materials Sampler (Smart Vinyl, Matless Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Matless Heat Transfer Vinyl, Cardstock, Transfer Tape), Fine Point Pen, Light Grip Mat, Weeder & 30 bonus images in Design Space app
- ENDLESS CREATION & PERSONALIZATION - Cricut Maker 4 works with 300+ materials, including leather, wood, vinyl, iron-on HTV, cardstock, stickers & more. This machine not only cuts, but it also draws, foils, scores, engraves, debosses, perforates, & more
- COMPATIBLE WITH INKJET PRINTER - Create full-color designs for stickers & more with the Print-Then-Cut feature, compatible with most inkjet printers
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED — Design Space is the easy-to-learn design software that connects to all Cricut cutting machines. Our free content library includes 3,000+ images and 100+ fonts. Add our optional Cricut Access Subscription* to unlock more
- BONUS DIGITAL CONTENT – Bundle includes 30 additional premium-quality images with purchase
Cricut Access is optional: basic Design Space access is free, while the subscription adds library content, features and discounts. Cricut’s U.S. product page displayed Standard at $9.99 per month when checked; subscription pricing and terms can change, and it renews automatically until canceled. A subscription is not a substitute for budgeting for materials, tools and replacement consumables.
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Which Cricut should you buy in 2026?
Explore 5 is now the newer Explore-generation model. On Cricut’s U.S. shop, Explore 5 was listed from $199 for the machine-only option, while Maker 4 showed a $399 MSRP and a displayed promotional price of $349. Explore 4 appeared primarily as a certified-refurbished listing at $199 that was out of stock. These are snapshots of live listings, not guaranteed prices or availability. See the Explore 5 listing, Maker 4 listing and Explore category for current details.
- Choose Explore 5 for the usual home-craft mix—vinyl, cards, stickers, labels and apparel—if you want a current Explore model without Maker-level tools.
- Choose Maker 4 if fabric, leather, wood, engraving or debossing are realistic projects and the extra cost fits your budget. Check which specialty tools are included or sold separately.
- Consider Explore 4 only at a meaningful discount. Compare its complete bundle and condition with Explore 5, and verify warranty, return terms and replacement-part availability. Paying its original $249.99 launch price makes little sense when Explore 5 is listed from $199.
- Consider Joy 2 or Joy Xtra if storage and portability matter more than a 12-inch-class work area. Cricut listed Joy 2 at $99 and Joy Xtra at $179; these compact machines suit smaller cards, labels, decals and stickers, with Joy Xtra offering a wider format than Joy 2.
- Consider Venture for large signs, banners, wall décor or higher-volume work. It is a larger-format option, not the natural choice for occasional projects or a tight workspace.
Prices and product status for Cricut machines can change; check the checkout total and the package contents before ordering. A bundle’s advertised value is not necessarily what you would pay for those items elsewhere.
Rank #4
- COMPLETE CRICUT EXPLORE 5 KIT: Start crafting right out of the box with the Cricut Explore 5 cutting machine plus Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On (HTV), printable vinyl, cardstock, insert cards, and project inspiration. Create decals, labels, stickers, greeting cards, personalized gifts, and custom apparel without purchasing additional supplies. 30% more compact than previous models.
- CUTS 100+ MATERIALS WITH PRECISION: The Cricut Explore 5 smart cutting machine works with vinyl, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), cardstock, printable materials, paper, felt, and more. Create custom home decor, business products, apparel, scrapbook projects, stickers, and event decorations with clean, accurate cuts. Compatible with Cricut Smart Materials for continuous matless cuts up to 12 feet long. Easily make wall decals, signs, banners, labels, and bulk crafting projects while reducing setup time and material waste.
- RAINBOW ESSENTIALS BUNDLE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Essential Bundle includes the all-new Cricut Explore 5 Cutting Machine as well as must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. In addition you will receive 6 Smart Vinyl Sheets (9.5" x 13"), 6 Smart Heat Transfer Vinyl Sheets (9.5" x 13"), and access to 400+ Projects and How-To's in Design Space.
- CREATE STICKERS, SHIRTS, CARDS & MORE: Make custom stickers, vinyl decals, labels, greeting cards, iron-on shirts, tote bags, party decorations, wedding projects, and personalized gifts. This all-in-one Cricut bundle provides the most popular materials needed for a wide variety of projects. Designed for first-time Cricut users and growing makers, this bundle makes setup simple and crafting approachable. A thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, Mother’s Day, graduation, weddings, or anyone starting a DIY journey.
- BEGINNER-FRIENDLY CRAFTING MACHINE: Bluetooth connectivity and Cricut Design Space provide an easy setup experience with guided project tutorials and templates. Ideal for first-time Cricut users, hobby crafters, teachers, and small business owners. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started.
Budget for the whole workflow, not just the cutter
The machine is only one part of the cost. Depending on your projects, you may need replacement blades, cutting mats, vinyl or Smart Vinyl, transfer tape, iron-on material, cardstock and weeding tools. Shirts and other iron-on projects also require a suitable heat-application method; a heat press is a separate purchase, not a built-in machine capability. Replenishment costs rise with the number and size of projects.
For a household crafter, compare the projects you realistically expect to finish against materials and workspace needs. Both machines need room to feed material or mats, handle tools and set aside finished work. If you are considering selling crafts, a cutter can help produce items, but it cannot guarantee profit: design work, material waste, labor, packaging, shipping, taxes, platform fees and demand all matter. Faster cutting alone does not make a small business viable.
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When to consider another machine—or skip the purchase
If you make only occasional small cards, labels or decals, a compact Joy model may be enough. If you routinely need oversized signs or batch production, Venture may better match the work, though its size and cost may not suit a typical home workspace. Silhouette Cameo, Brother ScanNCut and Siser Juliet are other desktop-cutter ecosystems to compare if their software or workflows appeal to you; prices, bundles and capabilities vary, so assess current specifications rather than assuming they are direct equivalents.
A Cricut may not suit you if you want a fully standalone workflow, dislike connected software ecosystems, or need industrial production capacity. Before buying, confirm that your device meets current Design Space requirements and that the materials and tools for your actual projects are supported. The machine alone does not remove design, setup and finishing work.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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