Cutting machine comparisons

• Cricut Explore 5 vs Silhouette CAMEO 5 Alpha

  Most first-time buyers should get the Explore 5. It's easier to start with, has published print-then-cut limits, and has more independent testing behind it. Pick the CAMEO 5 Alpha if you want to design on a computer without a subscription, need two tools mounted at once, or cut long runs of any brand's vinyl.

• Cricut Joy Xtra vs Cricut Joy 2

  Get the Joy Xtra if stickers or anything over 4.5 inches wide is part of the plan. Its print-then-cut area on a Letter page is more than twice as wide. Get the Joy 2 if you mainly make labels, cards and small decals and want the smallest, lightest machine.

• Cricut Joy Xtra vs Silhouette Portrait 4

  For most compact-cutter buyers, the Joy Xtra is the safer choice. It publishes its print-then-cut limits, it's smaller, and it has more independent testing. The Portrait 4 makes sense if you want USB, a mat in the box, and desktop software with no subscription.

• Cricut Maker 5 vs Cricut Explore 5

  Get the Explore 5 unless you know you'll cut thick materials, unbacked fabric, or engrave. For vinyl, iron-on, cards and stickers, Cricut lists the same print-then-cut area and a similar matless length for both, and the Explore costs less.