I’ve finally purchased the Explore, but still retain possession of my Cameo. Having used both for a while (the Cameo for longer), here’s my candid review for the raging battle between the Cricut and the Cameo. After going through it, I believe you can make a decision on the machine that suits you best.
First, a look at the Silhouette
One of the first things to catch my attention was that I didn’t have to buy cartridges. Added to the cost benefit, it would also mean that I wouldn’t have to look for extra shelf space for the cartridges. The machine itself is light and can cut most things from paper, vinyl to cardstock fairly well. The Silhouette software is easy to use when customising logos and such. I could cut any font that was available on my computer. In addition, when I checked out their website, there were hundreds, nay, thousands of images available. Some were free, many were available upon purchase. However, their prices were, in my view, reasonable.Nonetheless, the Silhouette does have its pitfalls. The software for laying out the graphics took some while to getting used to. In addition, the small mat sizes limited me to cutting only legal size paper sheet.
Next, the Cricut
This is a very strong and sturdy machine-it can manage heavy use. It cuts everything from fabric, vinyl, paper to cardstock, but for the media that are thicker you’ll need a deep set blade. It’s efficient in that with just the push of a button the machine can fill a page with an image of your choice. This comes in handy if you have a large workload, like numerous tags. Unlike the former, it has a larger cutting mat. It is also very quiet when working, and comes with a tool compartment. You can opt to purchase cartridges or image files from the Cricut site using their software.The downside-with greater power, comes greater cost. The cartridges are expensive, and, yes, they take up space. Furthermore, you’ll usually need additional software in order to choose where the images will be cut on the mat.
Cricut Explore Vs Silhouette Cameo
| Cricut Explore | Silhouette Cameo | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Cricut | Silhouette |
| Key features | - Cuts the widest variety of materials (50+) - Upload and cut your own designs FREE - including SVG files - No cartridges required (but cartridge compatible) - Free and easy software - no paid upgrades required - $100 Value of Images and Projects included | - 50 exclusive cuttable designs. - Includes access to thousands of downloadable designs - Cuts up to 12-inch wide and 10-feet long; cuts a variety of materials from vinyl to fabric . Does not Include Starter Kit vinyl - Great for Scrapbook layouts, cards, custom apparel, vinyl decor, etched glass, sketch designs, and paper crafts |
| Price | ||
| Customer Rating | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Best Offer | save 19%
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Conclusion
To be honest, as brands, they are neck-to-neck in competition. Nevertheless, everyone has a preference, and mine is the Silhouette. In addition to its sleek look, I have the program loaded on my computer, meaning I don’t need the internet to work it. It also gives me more control and customisation of the logos.