Cutting Machine Comparisons

A cutting machine is a big purchase and can really enhance your ability to do crafts.  As it is such a big purchase, a lot of thought and research should go into it.  You should consider what materials you are looking to cut, how much room you can give the machine, if you intend to create your own artwork to cut, how capable you are at learning software, how much money you are willing to spend not only on the machine but the files for it, and of course if it does need to hook up to a computer, whether or not it is compatible with a PC or Mac.  There are many other considerations that we have not even begun to think about, so we encourage everyone to do the research themselves.  There are many talented crafters that share their ideas and knowledge on the web.  Check it out carefully.  

We've compiled a list of cutting machines and several variables that you may want to consider and emphasize that we create cutting files and do not have a suggestion of what machine is best for you.  We welcome any additional data that should be added to this table.  Please email us at support@inspiregraphics.com  if you see anything incorrect or that needs updating.

CUTTER AI DXF EPS GSD PDF SVG Weight Software Need to know Embosses Draws Engraves Print & Cut Cutting Width Mac/PC Cutting Force (grams of force) Cost
Black Cat Cougar x x x x x x pounds "SCAL MTC" cuts pretty much any material yes yes yes yes "model size wide -
Available in 13in 15in 18in and 24in Cut widths " Mac/PC 900-1200 749-949
Black Cat Lynx "compatible with all cougar accessories doesn't cut as many materials as cougar" yes yes "12 "" wide" Mac/PC 700 499
Craft Robo x x "11"""
Cricut Explore x x not sure which recommended "no software necessary. use online program. internet connection neccessary SCAL" "duo-head can score and cut at the same time" yes yes yes "12 "" wide" Mac/PC Proprietary 249
Cricut Expression only uses cartridges no no doesn't need computer 179
eCraft x "MTC "
Gazzle x x x "MTC SCAL" 700 399
Kilc-N-Kut x x x double check file formats "KNK Studio software MTC" yes "up to 24"" depending on model" Mac/PC 950 849
Pazzles Inspiration x x x x WPC/PVG (native) "Inspiration Studio Pro MTC SCAL" "The Inspiration Vue can handle heavier things like chipboard and sheet magnet thanks to 1 000 grams of force." yes yes yes "12 "" wide" PC 1000 450
Silhouette Cameo x x x .studio (native) svg with design studio only "silhouette studio silhouette designer studio MTC SCAL" Features a full 12 inch cutting width and mat-less cutting for rolled materials. The machine also has the ability to register and cut printed materials and is PixScan™ compatible. yes yes yes "12 "" wide" Mac/PC 210 226
Silhouette Portrait .studio (native) MTC The machine also has the ability to register and cut printed materials and is PixScan™ compatible. yes yes yes "Maximum Cutting Area: 8″ x 12″ (20.3 x 30.5 cm) with a cutting mat and 8″ x 10′ (20.3 cm x 3 m) with a lined media" Mac/PC 210 179
Silver Bullet x x x x x x SCAL One of the strongest machines on the markety with 1250 grams of cutting force. yes yes yes yes "24""" Mac/PC 1250 849
Sizzix eClips x x " SCAL eCAL" True Scoring – No more perforations… clean folds every time. Can use without computer if you have cartridges. yes yes "12""" Mac/PC 600 200
Wishblade x x x x "Wishblade Create and Cut" yes yes yes "8.5""" Mac/PC
Janome Edge x as of March 2015 imports several embroidery file types Simple Cut software Commercial grade steel components–yes it does…it is much heavier than other cutting machines out there. Designed with quilters in mind. yes "12""-15"" depending on version" Not necessary. Transfer files via USB stick or CF card 750 399
Brother ScanNCut No software. Does not connect to computer. Worlds first home and hobby cutting machine with a 300 DPI built-in scanner. Scan virtually anything – from a handmade drawing to your most cherished family photo. "yes depending on version" No computer required 399-499
Zing x x x x MTC Zing Air allows you to communicate with your computer wirelessly. ZingSpeak allows you to control the device using voice commands. yes "yes depending on version" yes yes "up to 14"" depending on version" PC 750 419
Slice uses design cards no software needed Fabric-cutting tool to make quilting easy. yes yes "6""" no need proprietary 115
Posted by Lettering Delights


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