As one of the most trusted brands of cutting machines, Silhouette has produced various models with different sets of features to attract different users. In the following article, we will discuss about the comparisons between Silhouette Cameo 3 vs Portrait. While Silhouette Cameo 3 is geared more towards experienced users, Silhouette Portrait comes as an affordable entry-level model suitable for beginners. So, what are exactly the differences between Silhouette Cameo 3 and Silhouette Portrait? Continue reading below to find out!
Compatible Cutting Mat Size and Materials
First of all, as an entry-level model, Silhouette Portrait can only handle materials up to 8” x 12” (see our discussion about Silhouette Portrait vs Curio here!). However, it can indeed handle lined media up to 8” x 10’. So, with this model, you can already cut paper rolls as long as they do not exceed the maximum width of the machine. Silhouette Portrait is quite powerful, as it can cut more than 100 materials. However, it is not powerful enough for cutting some thicker and more durable materials such as chipboard.
Silhouette Cameo 3 has a wider input tray, and it is quite more powerful. It can work with 12” x 12” cutting mats. It is also compatible with various materials. You can use it for cutting some thicker and more durable materials.
Performance
Silhouette Portrait is not very accurate. It can perform well when cutting small designs that do not require ultra-high precision. However, it is not suitable for cutting large and intricate designs. It is also relatively slow. But it is good enough if you only need to cut small-sized designs and patterns.
On the other hand, Silhouette Cameo 3 boasts a dual carriage system which enables the machine to cut-and-draw or cut-and-score simultaneously. In addition, it also has the AutoBlade, which is a blade that automatically adjusts the settings to handle different materials. So, this model is very fast and convenient. You don’t need to spend time to choose the correct settings – the machine does the job for you. It can also get two tasks done in one run. And it is much more accurate, so it is suitable for making large and intricate designs and patterns.
Features
Silhouette Cameo 3 is packed with some advanced features. It has a touchscreen display for control, and it has built-in Bluetooth so that you can connect this cutting machine to your Bluetooth-enabled laptop wirelessly. Using Bluetooth is indeed more convenient than connecting wires.
Well, let’s not forget about the PixScan technology, which is available on Silhouette Cameo 3. PixScan is ideal for saving any photographed or scanned image into your personal digital library. You can also use PixScan for turning a hand-drawn sketch into a new custom cut file.
Conclusion
Silhouette Portrait makes a good starting point for beginners. It is simple, yet already able to handle various materials. You can choose Silhouette Portrait if you only need to cut small and simple designs. However, if you want to work with larger, more intricate designs, you have to choose Silhouette Cameo 3, which as better accuracy and precision. Silhouette Cameo 3 is worth the money because of the advanced features that are handy and useful.
