Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Explore Air 2 Chart
If you are an avid crafter or a DIY enthusiast, then you must have come across the Cricut machines. These machines have revolutionized the way we create and design our projects. They have made it easier and faster to cut, draw, and score various materials such as paper, vinyl, fabric, leather, and more.
Two of the most popular Cricut machines in the market are the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2. Although they are both excellent machines, they have some differences that you need to know before making a purchase. In this article, we will compare the Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Explore Air 2 Chart to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Portability
The Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 have different designs and portability. The Cricut Maker is a bit larger and heavier than the Cricut Explore Air 2. It measures 22.6 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches and weighs 10.2 pounds. On the other hand, the Cricut Explore Air 2 measures 24 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches and weighs 14 pounds.
Both machines are portable, but the Cricut Explore Air 2 is more portable than the Cricut Maker. The Cricut Explore Air 2 has a carrying handle that makes it easy to move around. However, the Cricut Maker has a more sturdy and durable design, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty projects.
Cutting Power and Performance
Another significant difference between the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 is their cutting power and performance. The Cricut Maker has a more powerful motor and can cut through thicker materials such as balsa wood, leather, and matboard. It also has a rotary blade that can cut fabric with ease.
On the other hand, the Cricut Explore Air 2 has a less powerful motor and can only cut through thinner materials such as paper, vinyl, and cardstock. It does not have a rotary blade, which makes it less efficient in cutting fabric. However, it can cut faster and has a smart set dial that allows you to adjust the blade depth and pressure for different materials.
Software and Compatibility
Both the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 use the same software, which is the Cricut Design Space. This software allows you to create and edit your designs, access a vast library of images and fonts, and connect to your machine wirelessly.
However, the Cricut Maker has some advanced features that are not available on the Cricut Explore Air 2. For instance, it has a sewing pattern library that allows you to create sewing projects with ease. It also has adaptive tool system technology that allows you to use different blades and tools for various projects.
Price and Value
The Cricut Maker is more expensive than the Cricut Explore Air 2. The Cricut Maker retails at around $399, while the Cricut Explore Air 2 retails at around $249. However, the Cricut Maker offers more value for the money. It has more advanced features, a more powerful motor, and can cut through thicker materials. It also has a longer lifespan than the Cricut Explore Air 2.
Conclusion
Both the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air 2 are excellent machines that can help you take your crafting and DIY projects to the next level. However, they have some differences that you need to consider before making a purchase. If you want a machine that can cut through thicker materials and has more advanced features, then the Cricut Maker is the best choice. On the other hand, if you want a machine that is more portable and can cut faster, then the Cricut Explore Air 2 is the best choice.
