The Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Air 2 machine may seem similar, but there are some key differences. The most notable differences between the two cutters are regarding cutting force and the Adaptable Tool System. Let’s compare the two machines!
Cricut Explore Air Overview
The Cricut Explore line comes with 3 machines, Cricut Explore One, Cricut Explore Air, and Cricut Explore Air 2. All the machines are fairly similar. The key differences are is that the Cricut Explore One has one carriage, while the Cricut Explore Air and Air 2 machines have dual carriages.
The Cricut Explore Air 2 offers the most capability of the Cricut Explore machines. The dual carriages allow crafters to draw and cut without having to stop to swap out the tools. The smart dial on the side of the machine allows users to easily choose the material they are cutting to adjust the blade pressure.
Cricut Maker Overview
The Cricut Maker has almost all the capability of the Cricut Explore machines, and more. The main differences between the Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore Air are cutting force and tools. The Cricut Maker is 10x stronger than the Cricut Explore. The Cricut Maker also comes with tools that aren’t backward compatible with the Cricut Explore. The Knife blade cuts thicker materials up to 2.4mm thick, while the Rotary Blade is used for cutting fabric. With the Rotary Blade, you don’t have to worry about tearing the fabric. Both of these tools are controlled by the Adaptive Tools System, which automatically controls the pressure and direction. This Adaptive Tool System eliminates the need for a smart dial, which is no longer a feature on the Maker machine.
Cricut Maker vs Cricut Explore Air – the differences
Below you can see the differences between the Cricut Maker and the Cricut Explore Air. See which machine is best for you.
| Cricut Explore Air | Cricut Maker | |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Cutting Width | 12 inches by 24 inches | 12 inches by 24 inches |
| Cutting Force | 350 grams | 4000 grams |
| Cut | Yes | Yes |
| Draw | Yes | Yes |
| Print then Cut | White only | Light/medium color |
| Pressure Setting | Smart Set Dial | Adaptive Tool Set |
| Double Tool Holder | Yes | Yes |
| Knife Blade | No | Yes |
| Rotary Blade | No | Yes |
| Scoring Wheel | No | Yes |
| Wireless Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile docking station | No | Yes |
| Software | Cricut Design Space | Cricut Design Space |
| MSRP | $299 | $399 |
| Amazon Price | Check price | Check price |
Which is better, the Cricut Maker or Cricut Explore?
The Cricut Maker overall is a better machine. It’s more versatile, having the Adaptable Tool System system, better tools, and more cutting pressure. If you are going strictly on price, however, then the Cricut Explore will be your better choice.
Which machine is right for you?
Thanks, helped me decide, based on needs/wants
I have the cricuit explore air 2 but I think I would like the cricuit maker. Can I purchase the knife blade , rotary blade,
And scoring wheel for my explore air 2. I just got it when they came out with the cricuit maker. I would like to make some Lazer cut wood light boxes.
Hi Wendy, unfortunately, the knife, rotary, and scoring tools are only available for the Maker.
What are the must have accessories when you first buy one of these machines? It looks like they have accessories for days!! How do I know what I really need, right away and what might be nice to have at some point?
Thanks for the information, it was plain, simple and precise and I understood so easily the difference between both machines. It will help me decide which one to buy.