Cricut Explore Air is a powerful and versatile cutting machine that can handle a variety of materials. Meanwhile, Silhouette Cameo 2 is a cutting machine that can operate by itself and cut on a long vinyl roll. So, which one is better? Read the comparison between Cricut Explore Air vs Silhouette Cameo 2 below for the answer.
Continue reading below to learn more about:
– The size and weight of each model
– The available connection options on each model
– Which cutting machine that is easier to use
– The comparison of their maximum cutting dimensions
– The cutting power of Cricut Explore Air vs Silhouette Cameo 2
– Whether Cricut Explore Air or Silhouette Cameo 2 is better
Size and Weight
Let’s start by comparing the dimensions of these two cutting machines. A compact and lightweight unit is usually preferred if you are going to bring your cutting machine to a class or perhaps in a trip. This is less of an issue if you will only put the cutting machine in your home– take a look at the comparison with the older model Silhouette Cameo vs. Cricut Explore Air here.
Cricut Explore Air is seriously not portable. While the compact box appears to be easy to carry, it is the weight that causes an issue. Cricut Explore Air has a weight of 21 pounds. That is really heavy for a cutting machine. As the effect, this cutting machine is not practical to bring along; you should just leave the unit in your home.
Cricut Explore Air itself measures 22.17 x 6.69 x 5.97 inches. Indeed, the unit is not too large. However, you should allow more room so that the lids can open properly. This model has a top lid and a front lid, so you need to give some clearance on the top and front.
Silhouette Cameo 2 is probably a better choice if you need a portable cutting machine. It is quite slim, and it is light. The weight is only about 8.9 pounds. So, it will be very easy to bring along.The dimensions of Silhouette Cameo 2 are 22.5 x 8.5 x 6 inches. It is also quite compact; after all, it is a desktop cutting machine. However, you also need to give it some clearance so that the lid can open.
Connectivity
Cricut Explore Air vs Silhouette Cameo 2 come with different connectivity options. If you want to work on a mobile device, Cricut Explore Air is a better choice. However, if you prefer a cutting machine that can operate by itself without any connection to a computer or mobile device, Silhouette Cameo 2 is the way to go.
Cricut Explore Air comes with a USB port and built-in Bluetooth. By using a USB cable, you can connect the unit to a computer in the traditional way. However, it is the built-in Bluetooth that makes this unit very flexible and versatile. You can connect the cutting machine wirelessly to a computer or mobile device. The weakness of Cricut Explore Air is that your device needs to be connected to the Internet in order to use the cutting machine.
Silhouette Cameo 2 has a USB port for a computer connection. It has replaced the SD card slot of the original Silhouette Cameo with another USB port that allows you to plug a USB flash drive directly to the unit. Unfortunately, this model is still without built-in Bluetooth; you need to purchase an optional adapter for that, and you still can’t connect it directly to a mobile device.
The advantage of Silhouette Cameo 2 is that it can operate independently without being connected to a computer or smartphone. You can load and cut designs directly from a USB flash drive. It has a nice touchscreen, through which you can control the unit.
Ease of Use
In general, both Cricut Explore Air vs Silhouette Cameo 2 are easy to use. Whichever model that you use, you will find that connecting the unit to your computer is a breeze. The whole process is intuitive and straightforward.
If you want to work on a mobile device, Cricut Explore Air obviously has an edge. It can connect directly to your smartphone. The setup is simple and quick. On the other hand, Silhouette Cameo 2 needs to be connected to a computer if you want to work from your smartphone. You need to set a connection between the computer and smartphone with the Silhouette Link software.
But if you want an independent cutting machine, Silhouette Cameo 2 is definitely the way to go. It is very convenient for going to a class and traveling. The touchscreen makes it very easy and intuitive to use.
Maximum Cutting Dimensions
Cricut Explore Air is already good enough for many people. Its cutting size is one of the largest available on a desktop cutting machine. According to the specs, it has a maximum cutting size of 12 x 24 inches, but the actual area is just slightly over 11.5 x 23.5 inches. Nevertheless, with this model, you can already cut various medium and large designs.
Silhouette Cameo 2 is especially great for cutting long paper or vinyl rolls. This model is able to handle a material of up to 12 inches and 10 feet long. With this model, you can easily make very large designs and cut in bulks. In addition, this model is equipped with a crosscutter, which is very handy for cutting excess paper or vinyl.
Performance
Many people agree that the best thing about Cricut Explore Air is the cutting power and cut quality. It is armed with a sharp, sturdy blade and a powerful motor. This cutting machine can handle common materials like paper, vinyl, fabric, and cardstock with ease. It can also cut some of the thicker materials, including leather, wood, and thin metallic sheets. The cuts are clean and precise.
Unfortunately, Silhouette Cameo 2 hasn’t improved upon its predecessor in terms of performance. It is certainly able to handle common materials like paper, vinyl, cardstock, and fabric. Unfortunately, it is not able to cut thick materials like leather, wood, and metal. So, if you want to cut such thick materials, you should not choose this model.
Cricut Explore Air vs. Silhouette Cameo 2
| Cricut Explore Air | Silhouette Cameo 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key Features | - Embedded Bluetooth for wireless cutting - Dual carriage for cutting and writing or cutting and scoring in one step - Upload your own images for free (.svg, .jpg, .png, .bmp, .gif, .dxf) Cut over 60 materials from vellum to leather | - The cross cutter on the back of unit is for cutting materials fed directly from a roll - There are two extra storage compartments on the side of the machine that are perfect for extra blades, cross cutters, or anything you wish |
| Price | ||
| Best Offer | Save Money Please click here | Save Money Please click here |
Conclusion
In general, Cricut Explore Air is still more recommended. This model has built-in Bluetooth, which is very nice. It can connect wirelessly to your computer and mobile device. However, the best thing about this model is the cutting power and cut quality. It can handle various materials, including leather, wood, and thin metal with good results.
