Are you looking for the best die cut machine? There are countless models on the market, and the decision can be difficult. That is why we spent countless hours doing the research for you.
Continue reading to learn more about choosing the perfect die cutting machine. We have also included a list of our top 7 favourites.
Our Top 3 Picks for the Best Die Cutting Machines
Best Overall
Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY Electronic DIY Die Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY is our best overall pick for home use. The machine comes with 682 preinstalled designs. Unlike other die cutting machines, this one will automatically detect the thickness of the material, so you do not have to worry about adjusting the blade.
Premium Choice
Cricut Explore Air 2 Die Cut Machine for all Crafts
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a versatile and user-friendly die cut machine. It is a great choice for home crafters. It can cut over 100 types of materials and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile phones.
Great Value
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Embossing and Manual Die Cutting Machine for Arts & Crafts
This die cutting machine is affordable and easy to use. It is also compatible with other manufacturer dies. So, you are not limited to using Sizzix Dies only.
What is a Die Cutting Machine?
Die cut machines make it easy to cut intricate shapes quickly. The machines can be digital or manual. Instead of taking time and cutting shapes out with scissors, the die cutting machine uses a blade or a die. These machines are great for people that make stickers, enjoy paper crafting, or quilting.
Die cutting machines can be used to make:
- Greeting cards
- Scrapbooks
- Vinyl decals
- Lettering
- Labels
- Stickers
- Stencils
- Envelopes
- Gift tags
- Glass Etchings
- Quilts
- …and More
What To Look For When Choosing the Best Die Cut Machine
Before you go out and buy a die cutting machine, take into consideration the following:
- What Will You Be Cutting?
If you are planning on using the die cutting machine for more than paper, make sure the machine can handle the material. Some machines can cut a wide variety of materials, while others cannot. Trying to cut the wrong material in your machine can damage it.
- Do You Need a Computer?
Some die cutting machines will not work if they are not hooked up to a computer. This may not be an issue for you. However, if you have limited space, or plan on taking the machine to a friend’s house, needing a computer can be an inconvenience.
- Digital or Manual
Die cut machines are either digital or manual. Digital machines require electricity. They also give you a wider range of designs. Manual machines require you to turn a handle to move the plates and die through the machine. These machines are easier to store and carry. However, you must purchase separate dies.
- Size of the Machine
Die cutting machines can be quite large. Before you buy a machine, measure the size of your workspace.
- Do you Need to Make Contour Cuts
Some die cutting machines can make contour cuts around printed designs. However, most do not.
- Home or Commercial Use
Are you planning on using the die cutting machine for a business? If so, you will want a machine that can handle large projects professionally and quickly.
- Does it Have a Scanner
If you like to draw, a scanner can scan your image and turn it into a cut file. This is a great feature for anyone looking for a sticker cutting machine.
- Know Your Budget
Before you even begin looking for a die cutting machine, determine your budget. Manual machines are a lot less expensive than digital machines. And digital machines vary greatly in price.
7 Best Die Cutting Machines for 2024
1. Cricut Explore Air 2 Die Cut Machine for all Crafts
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a great machine for home crafters. It is a versatile and user-friendly. You can use it for die cutting a wide variety of materials or as a sticker cutting machine.
Why We Like the Cricut Explore Air 2:
Unlike many other die cutting machines that are slow, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is fast. You will not have to waste time standing around waiting on your machine.
- Cut, Score and Write
Thanks to the dual cartridge, you can use this machine to cut, score and write.
- Over 100 Types of Materials
The Cricut Explore Air 2 can cut over 100 different types of materials.
- Bluetooth
You can use this die cut machine hooked up to a computer or with Bluetooth. It is also compatible with some mobile phones.
Pros and Cons of the Cricut Explore Air 2:
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Cuts 100+ materials
- Windows or Mac
- Double tool holder
- Can cut as large as 11.5” wide x 23.5” tall
- Free design software
- Can cut as small as .25”
- Works with mobile phones
- Wireless connectivity
- Over 3000 free projects
- USB Cable or Bluetooth
- Cutting, scoring, and writing
- Upload your own images
Cons:
- Loud
- Heavy
- Only uses Cricut software
- The Print Then Cut function can limit size
2. Silhouette Cameo 4 Extras Bundle with Extra AutoBlade, Pink Tool Kit, Cutting mat and PixScan
The Silhouette Cameo 4 is a great machine that can be used for sticker making, papercrafts, heat presses, quilting, and jewelry.
Why We Like the Silhouette Cameo 4:
Many die cutting machines have a 12” wide opening, but they cannot cut 12” wide. The Silhouette Cameo 4 has a true 12” cutting width.
- Built-in Roll Feeder
The built-in roll feeder gives you the ability to cut heat transfer material and vinyl directly from a roll without using a mat.
- Dual Carriage
The die cutting machine has 2 cartridges. One is for standard cutting and the other is for specialty tools.
- 5kg of Downward Force
The 5 kg of downward force makes it easy to cut thick materials.
Pros and Cons of the Silhouette Cameo 4:
Pros:
- Automatic tool type detection
- 12” cutting width
- Does not always require a cutting mat
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Print & Cut registration capability
- 5 kg of downward force
- Built-in roller feeder
- Built-in cross cutter
- Comes with a lot of accessories
- 3 mm clearance for thick materials
- PixScan compatible
- 8 ½” wide cutting area
Cons:
- Loud
- Switching tools can be difficult
- Several tools will only work on the left or right
- Cannot sketch and cut at the same time
3. Cricut Maker Smart Cutting Machine
The Cricut Maker is a favourite among home crafters. It is a versatile machine that can cut over 300 types of materials.
Why We Like the Cricut Maker:
If you are an avid crafter, you will find all sorts of uses for this machine. Not only does it cut, but it can also score, write, deboss, and engrave.
- Quick Swap Tools
The Cricut Maker make has a quick swap feature that makes it quick and easy to change tools. It is compatible with 13 different types of tools.
- Built-in Storage
The Cricut Maker has a built-in storage area on top of the machine for storing additional tools.
- Can Cut a Wide Variety of Materials
This die cutting machine is not only a sticker cutting machine. You can use it to c can cut over 300 different types of materials from vinyl and paper to fabrics and textiles.
Pros and Cons of the Cricut Maker:
Pros:
- Commercial grade technology
- 50 free ready to make projects
- Blade for fabrics
- Simple design apps
- Docking slot
- Software is mobile phone compatible
- Easy-to-learn Design Space
- Expandable suite of tools
- Can cut more than 300 materials
- Digital sewing pattern library
- Simplifies sewing
- Built-in Storage compartment
- USB port
- Quick swap tools
Cons:
- A lot of the accessories are extra
4. Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Embossing and Manual Die Cutting Machine for Arts & Crafts
The Sizzix Big Shot is a reasonably priced die cutting machine. It is a versatile machine that can be used for paper crafting as well as quilting.
Why We Like the Sizzix Big Shot:
This heavy duty die cutting machine can handle a wide variety of materials with ease.
- Large Platform
The large platform makes it easy to create larger die cuts. The platform also includes helpful diagrams for creating the perfect sandwich combinations.
- You Can Use a Variety of Dies
The die cutting machine works with the full Sizzix library, excluding Plus and Pro dies. You can also use Anna Griffin, Cuttlebug, QuicKutz, Spellbinders, and Acquiquilt dies.
- Steel Rollers
You can count on this die cut machine to last for a long time. It has a durable outer casting and steel core roller system.
Pros and Cons of the Sizzix Big Shot:
Pros:
- 6” Wide opening
- Steel core roller system
- Can handle different materials
- Compatible with most Sizzix Dies
- Affordable
- Ergonomic handle
- Large platform
- Works with other brands of dies
- Die cuts and embosses
- Carrying handle
Cons:
- Does not fold up for storage
- Handle screw is known to break
5. Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Cut & Emboss Machine
The Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum Cut and Emboss machine is a strong machine. It can cut up to 8 layers at once.
Why We Like the Spellbinders PL-001:
This die cutting machine is large and strong. It has an 8 ½” wide cutting area that can handle a wide array of projects.
- Versatile
The machine can cut over 40 types of materials including fabric, leather, metal, and more. You can also use most standard wafer thin/etched dies, embossing folders, texture plates, and contour steel rule dies.
- Solid Steel Construction
The Spellbinders PL-001 Platinum die cutting machine has a solid steel core. The machine is sturdy and strong.
- Folds Up
Even though the Spellbinders machine can handle large projects, it folds up for quick, easy storage.
Pros and Cons of the Spellbinders PL-001:
Pros:
- Solid steel core
- Can cut over 40 different materials
- Folds for easy storage
- 8 ½” wide cutting area
- No electricity needed
- Can cut 8 layers at a time
Cons:
- Cannot use standard 6” plates
- Heavy
6. Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY Electronic DIY Die Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY has 682 built-in designs. It can be used right out of the box without hooking it up to a computer.
Why We Like the Brother ScanNCut:
This die cutting machine has a built-in scanner. This unique features will give you the ability to create custom stickers, and die-cuts with hand drawn designs.
- 682 Built-in Designs
There are 682 built-in designs including 9 fonts and quilting patterns. You can use these built-in designs or add your own designs using the scanner, USB port, or wireless connection.
- Material Selection is Not Requires
Unlike other die cutting machines, the ScanNCut can detect the thickness of the material and make appropriate adjustments on its own.
- Built-in Scanner
Make custom designs with your hand drawn designs. Simply scan them and the machine will use the drawing to create a cut file.
Pros and Cons of the Brother ScanNCut:
Pros:
- Stand alone or use with a computer
- USB port and wireless capability
- Built-in scanner
- Wireless
- Good machine for quilters, sewers, and paper crafters
- 9 fonts
- No material selection required
- 100 quilting patterns
- 682 built-in designs
- Cuts up to 3 mm thick material
Cons:
- No paper manual, only a downloadable pdf
- Mats can be hard to get
- Large learning curve
7. AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Die Cutter Starter Set including the GO
The AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter was designed specifically for quilters. It will speed up your work and make it easier to cut the perfect pieces.
Why We Like the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter:
Cutting fabric pieces can be the hardest part for quilters. Whether you have arthritis, joint pain, or back pain this machine will make it easy to cut pieces quickly.
- Fast
With the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter, you can cut your fabric pieces a lot faster than using scissors or rotary cutters.
- Accuracy
Get perfect sized shapes every single time.
- Portable
The die cutting machine can be folded up and taken with you. It is great for sewing parties.
Pros and Cons of the AccuQuilt Go! Fabric Die Cutter:
Pros:
- Made for quilters
- Carrying handle
- Included pattern book
- Dies are designed for sewing
- Accurate cutting
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Does not require electricity
Cons:
- Only comes with one die
- Fabric waste
Our Top 3 Picks for the Best Die Cutting Machines
Best Overall
Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY Electronic DIY Die Cutting Machine with Scanner
The Brother ScanNCut SDX125EGY is our best overall pick for home use. The machine comes with 682 preinstalled designs. Unlike other die cutting machines, this one will automatically detect the thickness of the material, so you do not have to worry about adjusting the blade.
Premium Choice
Cricut Explore Air 2 Die Cut Machine for all Crafts
The Cricut Explore Air 2 is a versatile and user-friendly die cut machine. It is a great choice for home crafters. It can cut over 100 types of materials and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile phones.
Great Value
Sizzix Big Shot Starter Kit 661500 Embossing and Manual Die Cutting Machine for Arts & Crafts
This die cutting machine is affordable and easy to use. It is also compatible with other manufacturer dies. So, you are not limited to using Sizzix Dies only.
DIE CUTTING MACHINES ARE A GREAT WAY TO SPEED UP YOUR WORK AND HELP YOU BE MORE CREATIVE.
If you are an avid crafter, you might find these articles helpful: Embossing Machines, Best Sticker Cutting Machines, Best Printer for Stickers, Crafting Hot Glue Gun and Best Craft Kits for adults. You can also head on to our Facebook Page for more crafting ideas you can start making using these die cut machines.
Are you ready to invest in a new crating tool? We hope our list of die cutting machines has helped you make the perfect choice.