Comparison · Cutting Machines
Cricut Maker 4 vs Explore 4 vs Joy Xtra: Which Cricut Should You Buy?
Last verified against Cricut's official pages: November 13, 2026. Prices change often, so check the retailer before you buy.
Cricut's 4-series lineup spans three price tiers: a compact cutter (Joy Xtra), a full-size everyday cutter (Explore 4), and a full-size machine that works with the most tools and materials (Maker 4). This comparison uses only figures Cricut publishes for each machine (materials, cut size, tools, speed, connectivity and warranty) so you can match the machine to the projects you actually plan to make.
Newer models are available. In 2026 Cricut introduced the Cricut Explore 5 (listed at $199.00 on cricut.com's comparison chart) and the Cricut Maker 5 (launched September 4, 2026; listed at $349.00). Cricut states that the Explore 4 "is available for purchase only at retailers where Cricut machines are sold and not through Cricut.com." If you're buying new today, see Newer models before deciding.
Quick verdict: who should buy which
| If you are… | Consider | Why (from Cricut's published specs) |
|---|---|---|
| A beginner or small-space crafter making stickers, labels, cards and small decals | Cricut Joy Xtra | Smallest and lightest of the three (12.5 x 6 x 5.5 in, 6 lb). Cuts up to 8.5 in wide. Print Then Cut. Lowest price ($149.00 on cricut.com vs $179.00 MSRP) |
| An everyday crafter making T-shirts, full-size vinyl decals, cards and multiples on 12-inch-wide materials | Cricut Explore 4 | Same maximum cut size and listed cut speed as the Maker 4 (11.7 in x 12 ft with Smart Materials; up to 14.1 ips). 100+ materials and 6 compatible tools. $249.00 |
| A maker who wants fabric, leather, wood, engraving and debossing | Cricut Maker 4 | 300+ materials, 13 compatible tools, works with materials up to 2.4 mm thick. Engraves, debosses and perforates with tools sold separately. $379.00 on cricut.com ($399.00 MSRP) |
Bottom line: Explore 4 and Maker 4 share the same cut area and listed speed. The extra money for the Maker 4 buys tool and material range (13 tools and 300+ materials vs 6 tools and 100+ materials), not bigger or faster cuts. The Joy Xtra trades cut width for size and price.
Side-by-side comparison
| Spec | Cricut Joy Xtra | Cricut Explore 4 | Cricut Maker 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (cricut.com, Nov 13 2026) | $149.00 (MSRP $179.00) | $249.00 (now sold through retailers) | $379.00 (MSRP $399.00) |
| Max cut size, machine mat | 8.2 x 11.7 in | 11.5 x 23.5 in | 11.5 x 23.5 in |
| Max cut size, Smart Materials (no mat) | 8.5 in x 4 ft | 11.7 in x 12 ft | 11.7 in x 12 ft |
| Compatible materials | 50+ (spec list) / 75+ (headline and compare chart)¹ | 100+ | 300+ |
| Compatible tools | Joy blade, Joy Foil Transfer Tool, Joy pens & markers | 6 tools | 13 tools |
| Thickest material noted by Cricut | Not listed | 1.5 mm (Deep-Point Blade) | 2.4 mm |
| What it can do | Cut, write, draw, foil | Cut, write, draw, score, foil | Cut, write, draw, score, foil, engrave, deboss, perforate (tools sold separately) |
| Max cut speed | 5.65 in/sec² | Up to 14.1 ips | Up to 14.1 ips |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth | Bluetooth³ | Bluetooth, USB-A |
| Print Then Cut (inkjet) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Machine dimensions | 12.5 x 6 x 5.5 in | 22.2 x 7 x 5.9 in⁴ | 22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 in |
| Weight | 6 lb | 11.1 lb | 15.4 lb |
| Warranty | 1-year limited (machine) | 1-year limited (machine) | 1-year limited (machine) |
| Best for | Small projects, small spaces, lowest entry cost | Popular 12-inch projects (vinyl, iron-on, cardstock) | Widest material and tool range |
¹ Cricut's Joy Xtra product page lists "50+ materials" in its features but "Cuts 75+ Materials" in its headline. The cricut.com comparison chart also says 75+.
² Joy Xtra product page: 5.65 in/sec. cricut.com comparison chart: 5.6 inches per second.
³ USB is not listed on the Explore 4 pages we checked. Bluetooth is.
⁴ Explore 4 product page: 22.2 x 7 x 5.9 in. Cricut's Explore 5 vs Explore 4 blog lists 22.7 in x 6.2 in.
Shop: Cricut Joy Xtra on cricut.comofficial site · not an affiliate link · Cricut Explore 4 official specs (sold via retailers)official site · not an affiliate link · Cricut Maker 4 on cricut.comofficial site · not an affiliate link
Cricut Joy Xtra: detailed breakdown
Price: $149.00 on cricut.com (MSRP $179.00), as of November 13, 2026. [Source 1]
What Cricut says it does: cuts, writes, draws and foils. Works with popular material sizes, including US Letter and A4, and with your home inkjet printer for Print Then Cut full-color stickers. [Source 1]
Strengths (from published specs)
- The most compact of the three: 12.5 x 6 x 5.5 in and 6 lb. Cricut describes it as "about the size of a loaf of bread."
- Matless cuts up to 8.5 in x 4 ft with Smart Materials. Up to 8.2 x 11.7 in on a machine mat.
- Print Then Cut supports full-color stickers and labels.
Trade-offs
- The narrowest cut width (8.5 in max), so it can't handle 12-inch-wide vinyl or cardstock projects.
- The shortest tool list: the Joy Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing, Joy Foil Transfer Tool and Joy Pens & Markers. These are Joy-line accessories.
- Cricut's published speed (5.65 in/sec) is lower than the Explore 4 and Maker 4 listing of "up to 14.1 ips." Cricut's own footnotes say actual speed depends on material.
In the box (per Cricut): Cricut Joy Xtra machine, Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing, Cricut Joy Fine Point Pen, Mini Weeder, welcome card, power adapter, free trial of Cricut Access (for new subscribers), 50 pre-designed projects in the companion app, and materials for a practice cut. [Source 1]
Cricut Joy Xtra on cricut.comofficial site · not an affiliate link
Cricut Explore 4: detailed breakdown
Price: $249.00 as shown on cricut.com's Explore 4 comparison module and in Cricut's March 2026 blog ("Starting Price $249"). The launch price was $249.99. Cricut now sells the Explore 4 through other retailers rather than on cricut.com. [Sources 2, 3, 4]
What Cricut says it does: cuts 100+ materials, writes, draws, foils and scores (some tools sold separately), with Print Then Cut. Cricut says it cuts and writes "up to 2X faster than the previous model." [Source 2]
Strengths (from published specs)
- Full 12-inch-class cut area: 11.5 x 23.5 in on a mat and 11.7 in x 12 ft with Smart Materials, the same as the Maker 4.
- The same listed cut speed as the Maker 4: up to 14.1 ips.
- 6 compatible tools: Premium Fine-Point Blade, Bonded Fabric Blade, Scoring Stylus, Deep-Point Blade (for materials up to 1.5 mm like poster board and craft foam), Foil Transfer Kit, and Pens & Markers.
Trade-offs
- No engraving, debossing or perforating tools. Those are Maker-line capabilities.
- 100+ materials vs 300+ on the Maker 4.
- Cricut notes that the Explore 4's Scoring Stylus "is not forward-compatible with new machines." Explore 4 can use the original Explore pen sets or the new universal pens with an adapter. [Source 4]
- Now a previous-generation model (see Newer models below).
In the box (per Cricut): Cricut Explore 4 machine, Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing, Light Grip Machine Mat (12 x 12 in), Fine Point Pen (0.4 mm), Mini Weeder, and materials for practice cuts. [Source 2]
Cricut Explore 4 official specs (sold via retailers)official site · not an affiliate link
Cricut Maker 4: detailed breakdown
Price: $379.00 on cricut.com (MSRP $399.00), as of November 13, 2026. Cricut Access members are shown $341.10. [Source 5]
What Cricut says it does: cuts 300+ materials, including leather, wood, vinyl, iron-on and cardstock. It also draws, foils, scores, engraves, debosses and perforates (tools sold separately), and supports Print Then Cut. [Source 5]
Strengths (from published specs)
- The widest range: 300+ materials and 13 compatible tools. [Sources 5, 6]
- Works with materials up to 2.4 mm thick. [Source 6]
- The same 11.7 in x 12 ft Smart Materials cut length and up to 14.1 ips speed as the Explore 4.
- Bluetooth and USB-A connectivity. [Source 6]
Trade-offs
- The heaviest of the three: 15.4 lb, 22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 in.
- Costs $130 more than the Explore 4 at the prices listed above for the same cut area and listed speed. That money buys the wider tool and material range, so it pays off only if you'll use those extra tools.
- Advanced tools (engraving, debossing, rotary and others) are sold separately.
- Succeeded by the Maker 5 (see Newer models below).
In the box (per Cricut): Cricut Maker 4 machine, Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing, Light Grip Machine Mat (12 x 12 in), Fine Point Pen (0.4 mm), Mini Weeder, and materials for practice cuts. [Source 5]
Cricut Maker 4 on cricut.comofficial site · not an affiliate link
Newer models: Explore 5 and Maker 5
Cricut's 2026 releases matter for anyone buying new:
- Cricut Explore 5: listed at $199.00 on cricut.com's comparison chart. In Cricut's own comparison it keeps the Explore 4's core abilities (100+ materials, Smart Materials, Print Then Cut) in a machine Cricut describes as 30% more compact, with more in-box supplies. Cricut's guidance is that recent Explore 4 owners don't need to upgrade. [Sources 4, 7]
- Cricut Maker 5: launched September 4, 2026, and listed at $349.00 on cricut.com's comparison chart. Cricut lists 300+ materials and 13 tools (the same as the Maker 4), plus materials up to 3 mm thick (vs 2.4 mm), USB-C and Bluetooth Low Energy, Load & Go, and snap-in pen loading. It measures 19.8 x 7.5 x 4.7 in and weighs 10.9 lb. [Sources 6, 7]
At the cricut.com prices listed on November 13, 2026, the Maker 5 ($349.00) is cheaper than the Maker 4 ($379.00), and the Explore 5 ($199.00) is cheaper than the Explore 4 ($249.00). Prices change often, so compare current retailer prices before you buy. Cricut Maker 5 on Cricut's comparison chartofficial site · not an affiliate link Cricut Explore 5 on Cricut's comparison chartofficial site · not an affiliate link
How to choose: key decision factors
1. Project width. If you'll cut 12-inch vinyl, iron-on or cardstock, or want long banners and decals, you need the Explore 4 or Maker 4 (11.7 in x 12 ft matless). The Joy Xtra tops out at 8.5 in wide.
2. Materials you'll actually use. Vinyl, iron-on and cardstock are covered by all three. If fabric, leather, basswood, chipboard or engraving are on your list, the Maker 4 is the only one of the three with 300+ materials, 13 tools and support for materials up to 2.4 mm thick.
3. Budget vs tool ecosystem. The machine price is only the start. Specialty tools for the Maker (engraving, debossing and others) are sold separately, and the Joy Xtra uses Joy-line accessories. Price the tools you'll need, not only the machine.
4. Recurring costs to plan for.
- Blades and mats: Cricut's warranty covers the machine only and excludes blades, blade housings, accessories, tools and materials, so those are ongoing costs.
- Smart Materials: the long matless cuts (12 ft or 4 ft) require Cricut Smart Materials.
- Cricut Access: optional. Cricut says no subscription is required and Design Space is free with basic fonts and images. A paid Cricut Access subscription unlocks the full library (Cricut cites 1.5M+ images and 100,000+ projects) and extra design features. Check cricut.com for current Access pricing before you budget for it.
5. Space. At 6 lb and 12.5 in wide, the Joy Xtra fits small desks. The Explore 4 (11.1 lb) and Maker 4 (15.4 lb) are both about 22 in wide.
6. Generation. Explore 5 and Maker 5 are now current. Buy a 4-series machine because the price is right at the retailer you're using, not because it's the newest.
For a broader look at cut area, materials and software across brands, see our Cutting Machine Buying Guide: Cut Area, Materials and Software Explained (coming soon). Comparing Cricut against Silhouette? Read Cricut Maker 4 vs Silhouette CAMEO 5α: Specs, Software and Price Compared (coming soon). Setting up a workspace? See How to Organize a Sewing and Cricut Craft Room: Storage Options by Budget (coming soon).
FAQ
Do the Explore 4 and Maker 4 cut the same size?
Yes, according to Cricut. Both list 11.5 x 23.5 in on a machine mat and 11.7 in x 12 ft with Smart Materials. [Sources 2, 5]
Is the Maker 4 faster than the Explore 4?
Cricut lists the same maximum, "up to 14.1 ips," for both. Cricut notes that actual speed varies with the material setting. [Sources 2, 5]
What does the Maker 4 do that the Explore 4 can't?
Cricut lists engraving, debossing and perforating for the Maker 4 (tools sold separately), 300+ materials vs 100+, and 13 tools vs 6. [Sources 2, 5, 6]
Can the Joy Xtra cut 12-inch vinyl?
No. Its maximum cut width is 8.5 in with Smart Materials and 8.2 in on a mat. [Source 1]
Do I need a Cricut Access subscription?
No. Cricut states the machines don't require a subscription and Design Space is free. Cricut Access is an optional paid upgrade. The Joy Xtra box includes a free Access trial for new subscribers. [Sources 1, 2, 5]
Can I make stickers with my home printer?
Yes. Cricut lists Print Then Cut compatibility with most home inkjet printers for all three machines. [Sources 1, 2, 5]
What warranty do these machines have?
Each has a one-year limited warranty from the date of original retail purchase (or delivery, if later). It covers defects in materials and workmanship for US purchases from Cricut or an authorized seller. It covers the machine only, not blades, housings, accessories, software, tools or materials. Cricut also sells optional 2- or 3-year protection plans through Extend. [Sources 8, 9, 10, 11]
Where can I buy the Explore 4?
Cricut says the Explore 4 is now sold only at retailers that carry Cricut machines, not on cricut.com. [Source 4]
Are these machines suitable for kids?
Cricut states each machine is "not intended for use by children 12 years and younger." [Sources 1, 2, 5]
Official sources
All accessed November 13, 2026.
- Cricut Joy Xtra product page (US): https://cricut.com/en-us/cutting-machines/cricut-joy/cricut-joy-xtra/cricut-joy-xtra/2010313.html
- Cricut Explore 4 product page (specs, tools, in-box): https://cricut.com/en/cutting-machines/cricut-explore/cricut-explore-4/cricut-explore-4/2011073.html
- Cricut Explore 4 Seashell + Essentials Bundle page (US; shows Explore 4 at $249.00): https://cricut.com/en-us/cutting-machines/cricut-explore-4-seashell-essentials-bundle/2011286.html
- Cricut blog, "Cricut Explore 5 vs Cricut Explore 4" (Mar 26 2026): https://cricut.com/blog/cricut-explore-5-vs-cricut-explore-4/
- Cricut Maker 4 product page (US): https://cricut.com/en-us/cutting-machines/cricut-maker/cricut-maker-4/cricut-maker-4/2011084.html
- Cricut blog, "Cricut Maker 4 vs Cricut Maker 5" (Sep 8 2026): https://cricut.com/blog/gb/cricut-maker-4-vs-cricut-maker-5-which-machine-is-right-for-you/
- Cricut machine comparison chart (US): https://cricut.com/en-us/compare
- Cricut Maker 4 One-Year Limited Warranty (US, v3.0, Aug 2026): https://staticcontent.cricut.com/pdf/product-documentation/Maker.4/EN-US_WARRANTY.MAKER.4.pdf
- Cricut Explore 4 One-Year Limited Warranty (US, v3.0, Aug 2026): https://staticcontent.cricut.com/pdf/product-documentation/Explore.4/EN-US_WARRANTY.EXPLORE.4.pdf
- Cricut Joy Xtra One-Year Limited Warranty (US, v3.0, Aug 2026): https://staticcontent.cricut.com/pdf/product-documentation/Joy.Xtra/EN-US_WARRANTY.JOY.XTRA.pdf
- Cricut Product Documentation / warranty index and Help Center: https://cricut.com/en-us/product-documentation · https://help.cricut.com/hc/en-us/articles/360009431214-How-to-find-Cricut-Warranty-Documentation
- Cricut launch pricing FAQ (Explore 4 $249.99, Maker 4 $399.99): https://cricut.com/blog/faqs/how-much-are-cricut-explore-4-and-cricut-maker-4/
Verified product data used in this guide
| Product | Verified | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Cricut Maker 4 | 2026-11-13 | cricut.com |
| Cricut Explore 4 | 2026-11-13 | cricut.com |
| Cricut Joy Xtra | 2026-11-13 | cricut.com |
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