Choosing your first vinyl cutter is one of the most difficult parts of being an aspiring sign maker. Buying the wrong equipment could lead to a lot of frustration and failure. It’s not uncommon to find a startup buying a cutter because of its speed or price. So what are the most important criteria when buying a vinyl cutter? This guide will show you what to look for when you go out for shopping smart vinyl cutting machines.
These desktop machines can’t handle the heavy load but they have their specialty, and they are good at what they do. They can handle lighter load way better than their expensive counterparts and are ideal for homeowners and even small business owners who are just starting out. So let’s go to see the reviews of the best vinyl cutting machines for both commercial and desktop cutters as below:
Are you hunting for a stronger Cricut maker in the market? If your answer is a yes, your hunt ends with the Cricut Maker. This product seems almost ten times stronger and more accurate than similar maker machines. In case, you are looking for a maker machine that has lightning speed cutting potential, portable and stylish design, Cricut Maker is the ultimate product to consider.
Rende any kind of sewing and quilting projects
With the help of Cricut Maker, you can make sewing projects, balsa models, leather crafts, paper crafts, vinyl decals, and iron-on. Thanks to the advanced and new powerful Rotary Blade that can easily cut through any fabric quickly and with precision. The rolling and the gliding action of the blade has been designed to render perfection.
Things are simplified with the machine
By the end of 2017, you are expected to get hold of a new knife blade, that is sold separately. The blade is additionally deep with the potential to slice through balsa wood and mat board without any hassles. You can choose with a host of tools like a scoring tool, powerful and advanced blades, sharp pens, etc. Cricut maker makes your sewing and quilting projects easier and simpler.
There are apps to make things easier
The best part about the Cricut Maker is that you have the option to choose from tons of digital sewing patterns. There are simple and easy design applications available. All you need to do is lay your sewing project on your smartphone or computer and things get done in the most convenient manner. You don’t have to be a pro to operate the apps.
Be creative and innovative
With the Cricut Maker, you can get innovative and creative by using your own original designs. There is an array of standard file formats available. You can make use of your own design images and fonts absolutely free of cost. In case, you are busy, the docking slot can hold your smartphone and even charge it using the USB port. And it is the best choice on the vinyl cutting machines list.
Pros
Unparalleled cutting power
Flexibility in operation
Powerful blades and other individual tools
Rotary blade is the added benefit
Sleek and stylish design
Portable in nature
Cons
Currently, Cricut Maker cannot pass through foam board, until the availability of the New Knife Blade
It is not iPad friendly. Hence, you need to be aware
Such an ultra-smart system, the Silhouette Cameo 4, makes a good vinyl cutting machine to have. This boasts Bluetooth connection, auto blade 2, 1×12 cutting mat, silhouette studio software, and 100 designs in total.
Among its excellent features added include the Rotary Blade, Kraft Blade, AutoBlade, and Punch Tool. And with the selected rolled materials of heat transfer and vinyl material not needing backing anymore, they no longer need a cutting mat.
The powerful and robust design of this cutting system makes it a standout on the market. Its highlighted features, as mentioned, amazingly impressed those who have used it already. It is simple and easy to use.
It is a tool type detection vinyl cutting machine that uses tool sensor technology. This technology feature can detect the tool that you use that also triggers the studio software.
This twelve-inch width desktop cutting machine enables you to cut cardstock, vinyl, fabric, and more in precise measurements. Create perfect vinyl cuts while becoming more interested in crafting and cutting.
Conclusion of Silhouette Cameo 4 Vinyl Cutting Machines:
The Silhouette Cameo 4 is a good machine that is worth the upgrade. It is a faster machine that says it all while it does the job. Load and unload paper a lot smoother and quicker. So far, it is working perfectly while it is quieter and faster to use.
Cricut Explore AIR 2 is one of the best desktop vinyl cutting machines on the market. It is a newly released product from Cricut (and you can also check out the Cricut bundle deals here).
This DIY speed machine can cut and write up to 2X faster than the previous models from this manufacturer and can help you make products from vinyl, cardstock even leather. You can choose from moreover 3,000 ready to make projects or make quick cuts from their extensive library to make iron-on for t-shirts, totes, and pillows.
This machine doesn’t just cut. You can score for fold lines. You can also write with individual pens and markers. Once your product is ready, you can send it from your computer to the Cricut via Bluetooth. So we pick them up on our best vinyl cutting machines list.
The following items are included with the Cricuit Explore Air 2 machine:
Accessory adapter
Cricuit Design Space software and app
USB cord and power cord
100+ free images
Instruction manual
German carbide premium blade
Pen and cardstock sample
One of the major advantages of the Cricut Explore AIR 2 is its versatility. This machine can work with a range of different materials that include cardstock, vinyl, paper as well as fabric. Though it is possible that you might need to buy an additional deep cut blade for cutting thicker materials, it is compatible with lots of materials.
The Smart Set Dial in front of the machine can be used to set ‘automatic settings’ when cutting different materials while the ‘custom material selection’ within the software (which comes with the device) has more automatic settings as well that can be used.
The cutting width of the Explore Air 2 is 12″ by 24″ long which translates to 11.5 by 23.5 inches when you use it. We know it’s not the biggest vinyl cutter on the market, but it is quite ideal to service the needs of most crafters.
If there is one area where crafters have found tiresome when using Cricut products is in their software. Their products are usually rigid meaning you can’t use any other software other than Cricut Design Space software. While it’s not news that the Design Space software is not as robust as Adobe or CorelDraw, but it’s still quite easy to use, and it serves as an excellent starting point for many beginners.
The SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3 is a great machine to cut your custom designs. It is quite similar to the Cameo 2 save for a few upgrades such as the Cameo 3 having a dual carriage which allows you to cut and print at the same time without having to stop operations.
There is Bluetooth functionality to send and receive jobs wirelessly as well as the matless cutting capability to cut lined media up to 10 feet long. The dual carriages are a top upgrade that allows you to draw and cut on one project without having to stop. Previously, on its predecessor, you have to halt the cutter, swap out the blade and then start the job again.
The other items in the box aside the SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3 cutting machine include:
Power cable and USB cable
12×12 inch cutting mat
Silhouette Studio software
AutoBlade cutting blade
Vinyl Crosscutter
One month basic subscription to Silhouette Design Store
100 free digital designs
When it comes to materials that the Silhouette can work with, consider it at the forefront of developments. It can cut a variety of over 100 different designs and a whole lot of others that you probably haven’t heard of. It is quite versatile, and we have to agree with its marketing slogan that tags it as “the ultimate DIY machine’.
When you decide to cut materials on the SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3, it can cut a maximum of 12 inches by 10 feet long. It can be used for smaller design cuts as well as for larger designs.
The SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3 uses the Silhouette Studio 3.0. We initially thought Studio 4.0 would be released along with this product as originally announced by the company but instead, they created a patch for Studio 3.0 which now allows you to set up a Bluetooth connection. There is also a mobile app that is compatible with both iOS and Android that makes things quite easy for users.
A major part of the SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3 that makes this cutter highly rated is the AutoBlade. With the AutoBlade, you don’t need to manually adjust your cutting depths and hope that you can remember the sizes used for each cut.
SILHOUETTE CAMEO 3 Settings:
The AutoBlade setting ensures that the blade will be automatically calibrated based on what you’re working on. This is a very nifty feature that will appeal to everyone from the experienced operators who might forget to change the depth as well as beginners who don’t know what the best setting should be.
AutoBlade can be set up from the software. You will need to instruct the software on the material that you’re cutting, then you select AutoBlade, and the Silhouette Cameo 3 will handle the rest. And don’t forget to check out the Silhouette Cameo comparison.
The Cameo 2 is the predecessor to the Cameo 3 but it is still quite popular among Silhouette fans that haven’t made the jump quite yet.
It is one of the best-selling vinyl cutters on the market alongside Cricut’s Explore Air. The package it comes with includes the Cameo 2 machine, four metallic sketch pens, cutting blades (two), 2 cutting mats, USB and power cord, an instruction manual for guidance, and 51 exclusive Cuttables designs.
When it comes to cutting of materials, the Cameo 2 cuts them up to 12 inches wide to 10 feet long, which is the size still used in the Cameo 3. It uses the Silhouette Software 3 as well. The software requires a bit of a learning curve but once you get the hang of it, you will find it quite versatile and unique as compared to other software from other vinyl manufacturers.
One of the standout features for the Cameo 2 is the continued community support that is provided for Silhouette machines. When you buy a Silhouette, you will never run out of ideas to use, tutorials, step-by-step guides, etc. What more does it need to be on the vinyl cutting machines list.
Pros
Ideal for cutters on a limited budget
Works better on lightweight projects
Cons
Not that versatile as it won’t cut huge variety of media types
Working inside an office, or dealing with personal projects at home may require the use of a cutting machine. This cutting machine from Silhouette America. Silhouette America Portrait 2 comes in the form of a silhouette cameo mini electronic cutting machine.
It has the capacity of cutting more than 100 types of materials, such as fabric, cardstock, transparencies, heat transfer material, vellum, paper, magnet paper, and adhesive vinyl. It can also cut everything that an actual Cameo 3 model can, in a compact and portable format. It also offers a free silhouette studio for both PC and Mac.
Other features include an auto blade, Bluetooth connectivity, an 8-inch cutting mat, as well as a one-month free subscription to the silhouette store. At the same time, with its 2mm clearance, you can easily cut thicker materials, while utilizing its silhouette deep cutting blade.
Conclusion: With this cutting machine at hand, there is no need for you to spend time to prepare everything and go on a trip to the nearest cutting store in town. You can cut things according to requirements, provided that they fall under the list of materials that can be cut. It is complete with features that make it quite easy to use. As a bonus, it even offers a one-month subscription to the silhouette store, which is equivalent to $25 in downloads.
The Brother CM350 SCANNCUT 2 is an electronic machine that doesn’t require cartridges or dies. It is quite popular with artsy craft fans particularly those who like scrapbooks. One reason why this Brother ScanNCut stands out in our list of the best vinyl machines is that it’s the first vinyl cutter that offers built-in scanning capabilities. There are so many things that make this unit a better upgrade to the ScanNCut. It features a much larger display screen that makes tinkering with your designs easier. It supports wireless design transfer as well.
Transferring designs from the computer to the cutter is more digital nowadays than it was in the past when you had to connect cables. There is support for direct connection via USB cable also, but the package doesn’t come with a USB cable, so you have to buy it separately.
* The Brother CM350 SCANNCUT 2 is sold with the cloud-based application needed to edit, resize and design your cut data. This tool lets you convert files from SVG format to the FCM format that SVG uses. Brother CM350 offers many perks to be part of the vinyl cutting machines list.
The MH 34in vinyl cutter bundle from USCutter offers a great deal for individuals and small establishments who are mostly occupied with easy small-scale vinyl cutting jobs. It is relatively more affordable compared with many vinyl cutters of the same size but can cut a maximum width of 32 inches and a maximum length of 10 feet. That is a good cut capacity at this price range.
It also makes good and precise cuts on easy projects, thanks to its adjustable pinch rollers. However, there is only a limited number of materials the MH 34in can work with: standard and heat transfer vinyl, regular and craft paper, paint mask, and cardstock. If you regularly cut laminates, reflections, tints, and similar materials, this machine will not cut it for you.
VinylMaster Cut Features:
The MH 34in can help you produce simple vinyl and paper signages requiring easy cuts at small runs at a time. If you try to push it by making intricate cuts or producing too many pieces in one run, you may end up overworking it and causing it to conk out halfway.
Included in the bundle is the basic version of the design and cut software VinylMaster Cut. The software runs on a PC only. If you want to run it on a Mac, you may have to find a workaround as other Mac users did. Although the software package initially looks very outdated (CD format), it is really quite decent. It has just the right features and is very easy to use. You will not have a hard time getting it to work even if you are new to vinyl cutting.
The VinylMaster Cut can be used for lettering, logos, pinstriping, and more. You have just the right text and object tool suite at your disposal. The software works with all major image formats and can convert any image for cutting. It is not so outdated after all. Furthermore, the VinylMaster Cut license applies to an unlimited number of users so you can use the same package for all your PCs if you have multiple units or if you have an office.
Conclusion of USCutter Vinyl Cutting Machines:
All in all, we would recommend the MH 34in for those starting out in the vinyl cutting or for people and small businesses that mostly deal with light, small-scale projects. This vinyl cutter performs impeccably in these kinds of operations, making precise and customizable cuts. It comes with a basic version of the VinylMaster Cut design and cut software, which is convenient, user-friendly, practical, and good at what it does. Just remember not to overload it. If you find that your projects are increasing in quantity and difficulty, you might as well just move up to a heavier duty vinyl cutter instead of trying to force the MH 34in to do more.
Pros
Affordable
Great cutting capacity for the price
Spool function and dual ball-bearing media roller system saves time
Those who are fairly familiar with the other cutting machines like Circuit Air or Silhouette Cameo, then you might think that there is no way that other machines will overpower it. This is where the GCC Professional Expert II focused on improving by providing faster outputs compared to the two mentioned products. It can cut through material up to 400 mm per second with a downward pressure applied of 350 grams.
This cutting machine from GCC is great for delivering quality cuts of both heat transfer and vinyl-like Siser Easyweed and Oracal 651. It can work on a maximum width of 52 inches which makes it more efficient compared to other cutting machines that only allow limited sized vinyl. There’s no need to minimize the size of the vinyl that you will be used instead you can push through with the use of vinyl in full rolls.
The whole package includes a 52” wide stand, an aligning system that can be used on the contour cutting, cutting blade and cutting blade holder, vinyl trimmer, cutting strip, weeding tweezers, tabletop roll feeder attachment, and an instructional CD on how to properly install this machine.
The plugins used for this cutting machine are Adobe Illustrator CS and CorelDraw. It also works well on Windows XP or higher versions.
Conclusion of GCC Professional Vinyl Cutting Machines:
If you’re trying to finish a project that requires a large cutting area then this might be a good deal for you. People were satisfied with their ability to provide precise cuts that promote better projects. No wonder it jumped ahead of its competitors.
Cut vinyl like a pro with the Roland GS-24. This is a vinyl cutter that will make your projects look professional. It has a newly-designed LCD panel so you can clearly check settings and make accurate adjustments. The precise blade groove is for easy manual cutting while an included roller base helps keep feeds straight. You can easily use this vinyl cutter even if you have never used one before. It is technologically advanced with a re-designed cutting carriage and blade holder. It can store up to 8 settings for your commonly used blade and media combinations.
Aside from vinyl, the Roland GS-24 cutter also accepts other materials. Your projects made from paint mask, heat transfer, twill, and sandblast material are no match for this cutter. The Roland Vinyl Cutter uses CutStudio, an easy to use design software that will help you create creative cuts in no time. CutStudio works for almost all OS and is a software that you need to install. The Roland Vinyl Cutter easily connects to your PC using a handy serial and USB interface.
Conclusion: The Roland GS-24 Vinyl Cutter is a handy cutter for vinyl material and also for other project materials as well. It is easy to use and connects to easy software so you can edit your work and projects easily.
Pros
Creates precise blade grooves
With included roller base to keep feeds straight
Easy to use
With LCD panel
Can be used on paint mask, twill, heat transfer and sandblast material
Are you in need of a vinyl cutter that can deal with heavy and big cuts? In case, you have been using other cutters, but is not satisfied with the outcome, it is high time when you should invest money in a reliable and trustworthy product like GRAPHTEC CE6000-120 Vinyl Cutter. This is one such machine that can cater to your demands of high volume and heavy signage needs on a regular basis.
Who will benefit from the vinyl cutter?
Investing money in GRAPHTEC CE6000-120 Vinyl Cutter can be beneficial to three groups of buyers. They are: • An enthusiast artisan who wants to take his hobby to the next level. • A medium-size business planning to save money on the signage costs. • An entrepreneur wanting to sell vinyl signage and make profits.
In case, you fall into any of the above mentioned three categories, buying the vinyl cutter will not be a bad idea.
The vinyl cutter makes an excellent commercial unit
GRAPHTEC CE6000-120 Vinyl Cutter makes a better industrial cutter than a personalized use. But, you can use it for your personal work as well. With the presence of the impressive specifications and configurations of the vinyl cutter, it is one of the most popular and well-recognized units in the market today.
You will not be disappointed with the vinyl cutting device
The machine is efficient and you will not be disappointed with the high quality and accurate cuts at a rapid phase. All thanks to the Digital Servo Motor that powers the unit. The printing surface, measuring 47.8″ x 164′ is quite large to accommodate everything required for the commercial needs. Often there is much signage that is beyond the specified dimensions. This is where a cutter like GRAPHTEC CE6000-120 Vinyl Cutter can be really useful.
Striking features
• The Auto Registration Mark Sensor makes it perfect for precise cuts and prints. • The Digital Servo Motor is accurate and fast. • The presence of Graphtec Studio Software makes all the difference in the unit. • The cutter is equipped with 4 points, dual-axis correction.
Pros
Precise cutting
Faster cutting
Long lasting and durable in nature
The task of designing and cutting is easy because of Graphtec Studio Software
You can easily create a host of graphic applications
Cons
The unit is an expensive one when compared to other similar units
Graphtec is a very big name in the field of vinyl cutters. The FC 8600 series has made a very big name in the market because of the unit’s fast and accurate cutting. Graphtec Fc 8600-160 64-inch plotter is no different. The unit has created waves and has emerged as a successful product, with a huge fan base and high reputation.
The product has proved to be highly performing If you are looking for a high-performance vinyl plotter, Graphtec Fc 8600-160 64-inch Plotter is, without doubt, one of the best products accessible in the current market. It is an industry-leading vinyl cutter, highly beneficial for professional graphic artists, sign makers, crafters, countertop installers, automotive professionals and the list goes on.
When you explore the market, you will come across a wide array of vinyl plotters and cutters. It is no doubt an overwhelming situation to choose any one unit from so many that are easily accessible. Getting confused is also very normal. But, you have to make sure that you don’t get perplexed and select the wrong product.
You have to act smart to get hold of the right product. There is huge competition among the different brands and everyone claim to be the best. But there are very few that are worth the investment. Graphtec Fc 8600-160 64-inch Plotter is definitely one such unit that is reliable, efficient and delivers the best of performance.
Some features of Graphtec Fc 8600-160 64-inch Plotter:
• Graphtec Studio Software makes the whole process simple and easy. • The advanced ARMS enables easy and seamless contour cutting. • The plotter is effective on materials like vinyl, automotive windows, sandblast, prismatic grade reflective sheets, paint protected films, self-adhesive rubylith, and amberlith. • A 3-inch LCD screen enabling the controlling of the speed and help to adjust the force of the blades. • The machine training video as well as the Graphtec Studio software are very helpful for anyone.
Pros
The vinyl plotter renders high performance
High cutting speed can help in faster work
In order to deal with the high intensity reflective films, there is Diamond Grade feature
The vinyl plotter can handle a host of materials like sandblast, paint films, automotive window, adhesive and so on
Easy contour cutting is possible
Guaranteed precise and fast cutting
The designing and cutting is very easy
The user guide CD makes the operation easy
Cons
When compared with other vinyl plotters, this particular product is quite an expensive one
The first thing we noticed about MH721 is its size. Just like the other cutters from its line, this vinyl cutter does not take up too much space. It is lightweight enough to be easily and conveniently moved when necessary but heavy enough to provide stability when cutting. The machine is also very solid and sturdy.
The MH721 cuts at a decent speed and makes even intricate cuts easily, which is a good thing if you have a signage business and regularly deal with projects of varying difficulties. The Sure Cuts A Lot design and cut software that comes with it contains all the essentials and is easy to operate once fully and correctly set up. The only problem is that it sometimes freezes even when it is not too busy but we should not take that against the cutter itself.
USCutter MH721 Cut Capacity
This vinyl cutter can take on easy to moderately difficult small- and medium-scale projects. If you run a business cutting around 500 to 700 stickers or decals per day, for example, the MH721 is a good option for you. The products you create using this machine will pay for the machine’s cost quickly.
The MH721 can work with up to 24-inch vinyl sheets. However, you have to make sure you get enough clearance before you start cutting. In some units, the blade is set too deep into the cutting area, causing the sheet to crumple sometimes and ruining the entire sheet completely. This cutter offers enough value for its price to be on the vinyl cutting machines list.
The two major drawbacks of the MH721 are the assembly and the software setup. Assembly instructions are poorly written and can hardly be understood. You may spend more time guessing than doing any actual assembly. Also, there is no comprehensive guide to getting the machine hooked up to the software and the computer. There are helpful instructions available online but they come from other customers who figured it all out on their own. You can contact customer service but finding a how-to link is faster.
Conclusion USCutter MH721 Vinyl Cutting Machines:
Overall, we think the MH721 is great for you if you are wishing to start out in vinyl cutting and are looking for a cutting machine that pulls off the basics really well. This vinyl cutter is also ideal for you if you are either a long-time hobbyist or a small business owner who needs a cutting machine that gives a lot of value for money. Because you have been into the art of vinyl cutting for a while, you should not be thrown off by the challenging setup and assembly that this product requires.
You can just put it together, hook it up to a computer, and start plotting and cutting away. Although affordable, this unit is still more than the typical starter cutter and offers a lot of benefits that you will not find in other units at this price point.
Your search for a reliable and high-quality vinyl cutting machine ends with USCutter Titan 3. There are very few cutting machines like TITAN 3 that is so efficient and powerful. You won’t be disappointed using the vinyl cutting machines.
A host of materials can slide through the TITAN 3 professional vinyl cutting machines
Whether you are a professional sign maker or a DIY maker, TITAN 3 from USCutter seems to be the ultimate choice. Thanks to the powerful cutting force and varying speed, the product is capable of cutting a host of materials apart from vinyl. They include: • Hard paperboard • Window film • Adhesive • Stencil • Sandblast • Paint mask and many more materials
The laser contour cutting software brings all the difference
The machine is supported by the VinylMaster Cut, Dragoncut, and Razorcut, which are basically laser contour cutting software. The cutter allows you to come up with a range of pinstriping, vinyl lettering, and creative signage. Your creative vision is ready to be computer cut with an easy, customized, and engaging interface. The USCutter TITAN 3 allows you to edit images, create logos, change signs, draw shapes and personalize shapes.
The Vacuum Hold Down is the highlighting feature
The Vacuum Hold Down is a striking feature of the vinyl cutter from USCutter. This feature offers additional support and grip to the specific material that is cut. It seems beneficial for lightweight materials. Since there won’t be any slippage of the material that is being cut, you can get precise long cuts and fine details. Basically, there is accuracy and precision.
Features to look out for:
• There is improved grip because of the Vacuum Hold Down feature • The presence of contour cutting brings in precision • LCD panel for controlling the speed and the cutting force • The cutter features moving parts made of metal
Pros
The installation with plug and play option is very easy.
There is an accurate performance and quite functioning. Thanks to the Servo Motor.
Can cut a wide range of materials like vinyl, sandblast, laminate, paint mask stencil and high intensive reflective material.
Cons
There are instructions available for the installation. The installation is simple. You have to use your common sense and seek some help from the internet.
If you are into vinyl lettering, general signage, or pinstriping, you would definitely lookout for a vinyl cutting machine that caters to your demands and requirements in the best possible manner. The market is flooded with tons of such products, but there are very few that are worth the notice and investment. One such vinyl cutter machine is 31.5” USCutter Laserpoint II Vinyl Cutter Bundle-Sign Cutting Plotter with Design & Cut Software.
One of the best vinyl cutter in the market
31.5” USCutter Laserpoint II is perhaps the best in the market today. The presence of inbuilt vectorization tools makes it compatible with the major kinds of image formats. The best part is that even the lowest quality images can be turned into vector path designs that are easy to cut within seconds. It deserves a place in our vinyl cutting machines list.
Some highlighting features of the cutter
Whether you are a professional or an enthusiast, the 31.5” USCutter Laserpoint II Vinyl Cutter Bundle is the best option to choose. Some of the highlighting features of the vinyl cutter are: • There are 3 superior quality blades ensuring the cuts are always precise and accurate. • The Grafix Weeding tool kit is one of the striking aspects of the vinyl cutter. • The presence of the design and cut software, VinylMuster Cut, makes all the difference. • The contour cutting feature offers the laser print cut. • You can contour cut manually with the 31.5” USCutter Laserpoint II Vinyl Cutter Bundle. • There is more high quality and accurate cutting because of the presence of the inertial Rotating Blade Holder. • The cutter is equipped with the steel barbed axis rendering the high precision cutting of different materials apart from the vinyl. • The big, blacklight LCD screen gives you the option to have control over the cutting speed and the force while you are working. • The automatic memory of the blade speed adjustments and force makes it useful to operate anytime. • There is an emergency start and stop button. Hence, you can pause the work and continue again.
Easy to use because of the auto memory of the speed and force adjustments of the blade
Cons
The lack of any manual instruction seems to be the only drawback of the product. But, if you are a resourceful person, it won’t be very difficult for you.
Buying Guide to The Vinyl Cutting Machines
Our complete guide of the best vinyl cutting machines has been specially curated for you to offer the best guide possible as well as the pros and cons of each product based on size, ease of use, the capacity of the machines and how well they operate.
1. Personal (Desktop) or Commercial Cutters?
The vinyl cutters come in 2 different categories, one for personal use and the other for commercial use. Your present need will determine the one you end up buying. So what are the differences between personal or commercial cutters?
+ Personal Cutters or Desktop Cutters: They need something small enough to fit their home office, preferably their desktop; something quick and easy to use that can be operated quietly without disturbing the kids or waking up the neighbors and a cutter that is simple for anyone to operate irrespective of their experience in vinyl cutting.
+ Commercial Cutters: Commercial businesses will be using their cutters for signage and other large roster demanding work for their clients. These kinds of cutters are physically large, a bit expensive with the ability to cut large designs and other materials. Individual cutters, on the other hand, are for those whose needs for cutting are not to the extreme.
Note: It is worthy to note that just because a machine is built to cut bigger designs doesn’t mean it will cut them well. Only buy a big machine if you know you need to cut larger designs.
2. Drive Motors – Stepper Motors vs Servo Motors
The engine of a vinyl cutter determines its power and how well it operates. There are 2 kinds of drive motors, Stepper Motors, and Servo Motors.
+ Stepper Motors: The mechanical stepper motors move in ‘steps’ and are driven by physical gear. They are mainly used to save costs, but the downside could be costly as they are quite noisy during operation. There is also the issue of some graphics losing their precision.
As with most things that are large, it finds it easy to cut them accurately but on characters that are less than half an inch, the size prevents it from being able to plot the path smoothly.
+ Servo Motors: The other drive motors for cutters are Servo Motors allow manufacturers to produce usable vinyl cutters at an affordable rate. It is mainly targeted at entry-level plotters. For cutters driven by digital servo motors, an encoder translates the command from the software commands into ones and zeros which results in a smooth, precise movement of the drive motor over the cutting head.
Note: The Servo Motors operate at a quieter level compared to the mechanical stepper motor since it doesn’t have mechanical gears as well as being able to turn and pivot along smaller paths with precision. It can cut smaller letters with as much precision as it cuts larger materials.
3. Price – You Get What You Pay For
When it comes to vinyl cutters and even most things in life; you get what you pay for. It is true that most of the times an expensive machine might not be the most functional but we also can’t ignore the fact that the most expensive vinyl cutters are also the highest quality ones that can take on different and delicate designs. They can produce results without a hitch as they have the highest quality blades for the most precise cuts possible.
This, however, doesn’t mean that cheap machines are not worth your time because some of the latest desktop vinyl cutters that are not expensive are also some of the best sellers on the market.
New Features of the Vinyl Cutting Machines
Vinyl cutters have continued to evolve with 2019 being the year we saw a lot of the popular vinyl cutters emerging with new features. Some of the major features that we came across include:
1. Software
When it comes to using the vinyl cutting machines, you really can’t do without software. Some of the most popular include the Silhouette Studio, Adobe Illustrator, and Vinyl Master Cut.
2. Wireless capacity
The top desktop cutters on our review list below now have a wireless function via Bluetooth meaning you can design on your tablet in one room and send the design to the craft cutter in another room without having to connect any cables as it was previously done.
3. Automatic settings
Today’s vinyl cutters don’t require you to fiddle with anything to get a feel for what needs to be done and when. They can automatically adjust themselves to a range of materials at the flick of a switch within the machine.
Final Conclusion of Vinyl Cutting Machines:
Finding the best vinyl cutter is not easy if you don’t know where to look. Our guide on the best devices will aid you in making a more informed decision so that you only buy the best machine that matches your needs.
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29 comments
Thank you for the information. Another idea to consider is USCutter, I have Easy Cut Studio running my USCUTTER TITAN 3 and it works fine on my Windows 10 PC.
Choosing a good Vinyl Cutting machine is not an easy task, luckily that I come a cross this page. Nice that you can classify all machines into personal and business class. For my idea, Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine also can use for business purpose. Because I think it is fast enough for small business.
We purchased a SignWarehouse cutter, 31′, and are having to send it back. We have tried 2 different machines, and they both are not dependable to complete the job. Sometimes it does, sometimes it just stops. We are trying to print large text 10″ x 40″ and a logo. Do you think the US Cutter 34 give us a better performance?
With US Cutter 34″, you can cut approximately 32″ wide by 10′ (120″) long with the included software. So I think it should be OK to cut large text 10″ x 40″.
Hi John, do you know Silhouette Portrait 2 release date? I saw its demo is really nice. If compare to Silhouette Portrait old version has any best updated features on it?
Hi Pual, it already released since last month. And I will review it soon for the next update in 2018. Please come back to check again and thank you for your visit.
You’re comparing a machine released in 2017 (Cricut Maker) to a machine from 2014 (the Zing Air). KNK released their new model this year also. That makes this comparison blatantly misleading.
For Cricut Maker machine has a knife blade that can cut through leather with 10x more force compared to the previous Cricut Explore machines. So I think “Cricut Maker” should be OK to cut faux leather and many other thick material. But please check out the cutting instructions for faux leather here: https://help.cricut.com/help/faux-leather-instructions
Hi Ferman, we don’t know when KNK Force Cutter is available again. We will update you when it is in stock. And Cricut Maker also can use instead of KNK Force while it also has knife blade as KNK Force too.
I’m looking for a cutter that will also engrave flasks , wine glasses, steel water bottles as well as cut all metal, thick viynal. What would you recommend?
Good afternoon. I just stumbled across this. I’m in need for a new cutter. I have a small business and need the next step. I have a Silhouette Cameo and need something that can cut a larger format. I exclusively only use a material that is 16″ wide…I use SCAL (sure cuts a lot) ONLY for my software. I have a Mac…We are not a wealthy family but I’m in need for getting a more ‘commercial’ type vinyl cutter. That is all I do – cut this material and make signs so do not need more than that….GREATLY appreciate all your help with maybe directing me… Cindi
Hi Cindi, for 16″ wide vinyl cutter, Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in should work best for you. But this cutter can’t use with Mac. System Requirements Windows (XP/Vista/7/8/10).
Hi John, what did you mean by ” Hi Cindi, for 16″ wide vinyl cutter, #1. Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in should work best for you. But this cutter can’t use with Mac.? ??? Did you mean that this “cutter that can’t be used with a Mac”, “should work best” for Cindi who has a Mac? Is that the best she has to hope for? Please explain your logic, to me as I’m on a similar search as Cindi, still finding too many pointless, non-helpful comments cluttering the comments.
Unfortunately this machine is not compatible with Mac . This is why am desperately needing some assistance because from what I am learning most are not compatible with a Mac .
As an owner of a MH cutter I would not advise this cutter for anyone. It is the cheapest cutter and you get what you pay for. It can be made to cut decent but it takes a lot of time and patience to tweak everything to work just right. Step up to the next higher, the SC from USCutter at the very least. If you can afford it get a cutter with a servo motor rather than a stepper motor, the difference is night and day.
Really, its also mac compatible? Fantastic. But is the GRAPHTEC CE6000- 60 Vinyl Cutter compatible with MY MAC? Or did you mean to comment that this specific cutter is “also mac compatible” with (possibly) at least one OS version? Is there ANY evidence in any of the models’ specifications, that the GRAPHTEC CE6000- 60 Vinyl Cutter IS compatible with MAC OS X 10.11.6 or later? How did you confirm your claim compatibility with all versions of OS X currently available? Can you provide reference that shows confirmed compatibility with the more than 20 MAC operating systems? Why do the very low percentage of “mac compatible” cutters offered, indicate in their specifications, that they are only compatible with some of the MAC operating systems? Thanks for your advise Francis, however your comment does not seem convincing due to it’s vagueness. Do you feel that all MAC users run the same OS versions?
29 comments
Thank you for the information.
Another idea to consider is USCutter, I have Easy Cut Studio running my USCUTTER TITAN 3 and it works fine on my Windows 10 PC.
thank you Alen for your input. We will add more reviews on the commercial cutters part.
Review is great and detailed
Thanks for your post!
Choosing a good Vinyl Cutting machine is not an easy task, luckily that I come a cross this page. Nice that you can classify all machines into personal and business class. For my idea, Cricut Explore Air 2 Machine also can use for business purpose. Because I think it is fast enough for small business.
Thank you Aron for your great input here. Good luck with your business.
We purchased a SignWarehouse cutter, 31′, and are having to send it back. We have tried 2 different machines, and they both are not dependable to complete the job. Sometimes it does, sometimes it just stops. We are trying to print large text 10″ x 40″ and a logo. Do you think the US Cutter 34 give us a better performance?
With US Cutter 34″, you can cut approximately 32″ wide by 10′ (120″) long with the included software. So I think it should be OK to cut large text 10″ x 40″.
Hi John, do you know Silhouette Portrait 2 release date? I saw its demo is really nice. If compare to Silhouette Portrait old version has any best updated features on it?
Hi Pual, it already released since last month. And I will review it soon for the next update in 2018. Please come back to check again and thank you for your visit.
You’re comparing a machine released in 2017 (Cricut Maker) to a machine from 2014 (the Zing Air). KNK released their new model this year also. That makes this comparison blatantly misleading.
We will update this list soon for 2018 reviews by adding “KNK Force” cutter plus another new model of cutters. Thank you for your value feedback.
Hi John, would you know what sort of digital cutter is best for cutting thick faux leather? The kind used for making belts.
Hi Aaron,
For Cricut Maker machine has a knife blade that can cut through leather with 10x more force compared to the previous Cricut Explore machines. So I think “Cricut Maker” should be OK to cut faux leather and many other thick material. But please check out the cutting instructions for faux leather here: https://help.cricut.com/help/faux-leather-instructions
Hope this can help!
Cheers,
When the KNK Force Cutter available again? Anyway, it is possible to buy Cricut Maker or Air 2 instead of KNK Force?
Hi Ferman, we don’t know when KNK Force Cutter is available again. We will update you when it is in stock. And Cricut Maker also can use instead of KNK Force while it also has knife blade as KNK Force too.
Graphtec Fc8600-160 64-Inch Plotter vs GRAPHTEC CE6000-120 Vinyl Cutter, which one you recommend?
I’m looking for a cutter that will also engrave flasks , wine glasses, steel water bottles as well as cut all metal, thick viynal. What would you recommend?
Good afternoon. I just stumbled across this. I’m in need for a new cutter. I have a small business and need the next step. I have a Silhouette Cameo and need something that can cut a larger format. I exclusively only use a material that is 16″ wide…I use SCAL (sure cuts a lot) ONLY for my software. I have a Mac…We are not a wealthy family but I’m in need for getting a more ‘commercial’ type vinyl cutter. That is all I do – cut this material and make signs so do not need more than that….GREATLY appreciate all your help with maybe directing me… Cindi
Hi Cindi, for 16″ wide vinyl cutter, Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in should work best for you. But this cutter can’t use with Mac. System Requirements Windows (XP/Vista/7/8/10).
You can check more on other best commercial vinyl cutters here. Good luck & success in your business.
Hi John, what did you mean by ” Hi Cindi, for 16″ wide vinyl cutter, #1. Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in should work best for you. But this cutter can’t use with Mac.? ??? Did you mean that this “cutter that can’t be used with a Mac”, “should work best” for Cindi who has a Mac? Is that the best she has to hope for? Please explain your logic, to me as I’m on a similar search as Cindi, still finding too many pointless, non-helpful comments cluttering the comments.
I mean that Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in should work best for 16″ wide. But it is not work with Mac.
Unfortunately this machine is not compatible with Mac . This is why am desperately needing some assistance because from what I am learning most are not compatible with a Mac .
As an owner of a MH cutter I would not advise this cutter for anyone. It is the cheapest cutter and you get what you pay for. It can be made to cut decent but it takes a lot of time and patience to tweak everything to work just right. Step up to the next higher, the SC from USCutter at the very least. If you can afford it get a cutter with a servo motor rather than a stepper motor, the difference is night and day.
I would advice you to get a GRAPHTEC CE6000- 60 Vinyl Cutter if you have the budget, its also mac compatible.
Really, its also mac compatible? Fantastic. But is the GRAPHTEC CE6000- 60 Vinyl Cutter compatible with MY MAC? Or did you mean to comment that this specific cutter is “also mac compatible” with (possibly) at least one OS version? Is there ANY evidence in any of the models’ specifications, that the GRAPHTEC CE6000- 60 Vinyl Cutter IS compatible with MAC OS X 10.11.6 or later? How did you confirm your claim compatibility with all versions of OS X currently available? Can you provide reference that shows confirmed compatibility with the more than 20 MAC operating systems? Why do the very low percentage of “mac compatible” cutters offered, indicate in their specifications, that they are only compatible with some of the MAC operating systems? Thanks for your advise Francis, however your comment does not seem convincing due to it’s vagueness. Do you feel that all MAC users run the same OS versions?
Hi John
do you know what the warranty is on the Vinyl Cutter USCutter MH 34in?
have you used this machine before?
Hi Sam, This product includes a 1 year warranty.
Thank you for this article. What machine would cut 2- or 3mm EVA foam? Also, I need it to be 24in wide.
for foam cutter, you can check out this foam cutting tools https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZ3VE4J