Best Vinyl Cutting Machines Reviews For 2024

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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If you’re into scrapbooking or crafting in any way, shape or form then I’m sure you have the desire for a vinyl cutter. You may already have one, ideally it doesn’t fulfill your requirements to the tenth degree, does it? Perhaps it is a brand new experience to you to vinyl cut and you require some detailed instructions. Anyway, if you are here to looking for the best Vinyl Cutting Machines, you are at the right place.

Which Vinyl Cutter is The Best?

First of all, what is vinyl cutting machine? A cutting machine suitable for cutting vinyl and other substances, a vinyl cutter can cut anything from shapes, letters, symbols and install them at nearly every place possible. Thus, it is a quite multifunctional and any hobbyist would like to have it in work studio.

You might be tempted to think that vinyl cutters are a big machine, but they are not; hence they will not claim a lot of space. Further, they are easily movable so can be taken anywhere. The size of a compact printer, vinyl cutters are managed via computer and it is the blade which does all the hard work. To remove many thin sheets of adhesive vinyl material, they must be extremely sharp. The most popular applications of vinyl cutting require these tools to be durable and lightweight, pack a punch and possess an easy to use interface.

Choosing the Best Vinyl Cutting Machines

Naturally, you want to know: what is the right vinyl cutter? The answer is very subjective and will depend on a variety of factors, such as:

  • Price
  • Needs
  • Ease of use
  • Cutting capability
  • Purpose
  • Desired speed and force
  • Portability
  • Size

It would just be one thing that you’d want to consider when selecting your product: how responsive the customer service is. In fact, regular customers will expect that if they have some question about a particular item to by, or if they have a problem with one that they have already purchased and want someone from that company’s help to rectify the situation, they should be able to contact someone from that company easily.

Most importantly, it is very crucial to do enough research to identify the right vinyl cutting machine since a wrong choice means failure in your project. Ideally, the quality of the unit should be well-established, and people’s trust in it must be well justified.

Top 5 Best Vinyl Cutting Machines

This section provides a list of the 5 best vinyl cutters, a brief description of their features or characteristics, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and finally an explanation for why each was included on this list.

1. Brother ScanNCut SDX125E Electronic DIY Cutting Machine with Scanne

Brother ScanNCut SDX125E Electronic DIY Cutting Machine...
  • SCAN DRAWINGS AND MATERIALS: Brother ScanNCut is the only cutting...
  • STUNNING DIY PROJECTS: Craft with 682 built-in designs including...
  • NO MATERIAL SELECTION REQUIRED The included ScanNCut DX auto...
  • CUTS UP TO 3 millimeter (0.1 in) THICKNESS: The Brother Home...
  • INCLUDED IN THE BOX: The ScanNCut DX comes with a 12" x 12"...

When we searched for those machines that can cut almost everything for do-it-yourself projects, the Brother ScanNCut SDX125 is one that comes with a scanner and accommodates various materials. This model blends cutting accuracy with scan ability hence the users can design customized stickers, vinyl cuts, greeting cards and etc. It also has 682 pre-set patterns hence you do not need to install any design software before you start with it.

In addition, auto-blade sensor technology identifies material thickness and sets blade deep accurately, no guesswork and has no affects to the material. Equipped with 300 DPI, this kind of scanner can scan images, drawings, or hand cutting designs, and then convert them into cutting patterns which bring a very low CustoDiff type of flexibility for users. SDX125E can also cutting vinyl, paper, fabric, foam and felt and it can cut up to 3mm material thickness.

This machine has wireless connectivity for instant transfer of designs from Canon’s CanvasWorkspace or from your computer. I have come across models that come with a large 5-inch LCD touchscreen which enables easy control even of individual menu options and settings due to their quiet operation.

Pros:

  • Automotive cutting blade sensor informatics adapt to the thickness of the material under operation.
  • Document camera with 300 DPI built-in scanner to convert hand drawn or printed images for use as cut designs.
  • Reads up to 3mm thin materials like vinyl, foam, and felt and is also capable of cutting wood.
  • Integrated easily with CanvasWorkspace for easy transfer of designs.

Cons:

  • Cuts relatively small compared to larger cutting machines; mat size of the machine 12” x 12”.
  • CanvasWorkspace is somewhat restrictive in terms of the primary functionality required for high-level designs.

2. Cricut Explore Air 3 Machine and Basics Vinyl Pack Bundle

Sale
Cricut Explore Air 3 Machine and Basics Vinyl Pack...
  • CRICUT EXPLORE 3: A brand new writing and cutting smart machine...
  • COMPATIBILITY: The Explore 3 works with over 100 materials like...
  • CRICUT VINYL: This vinyl lies flat on the cutting mat to avoid...
  • INSTRUCTIONAL GUIDES: Full-color eBook "Getting Started with...
  • INCLUDES: Customer service help for any questions you have...

When searching for the basic craft cutting machine, we needed to focus on simple controls, and that is why decided for Cricut Explore Air 3 Machine Bundle. For beginners, this stencils’ bundle contains all essential materials to start crafting immediately: neutral adhesive vinyl, weeding tool, cutting mat, and manuals in PDF format. Boutique Patterned Paper Craft Cutter for Cut paper, vinyl, cardstock, iron-ons, vinyl, and other craft materials making it perfect for T-shirts, mugs, wall decals, greeting cards among others.

Moreover, Smart Materials are compatible with the Explore Air 3, so you can use them to cut something that is not on a mat for larger projects that are up to 12 feet when unrolled. Wireless, the Bluetooth feature allows for their operation The Cricut Design Space software will allow a user to access an array of design images.

Also, the fast mode which is incorporated in this model, also provides a cutting speed, that is twice that of the earlier models ensuring fast completion of tasks. Coming with vinyl pack and tools that are packed separately, the product is perfect for any beginner meaning it is the best starter pack.

Pros:

  • This speed improves the amount of time taken in projects through increasing the proportion of fast mode.
  • Equipped with Bluetooth technology for wire free cutting functions and easy transfer of designs.
  • Design space application for templates and tutorials in Cricut.
  • Little noise, perfect for home crafting and don’t interrupt your favorite TV shows.

Cons:

  • Design Space software is dependent on the internet connection hence lacks offline access.
  • Smart Materials can be expensive though applications of the smart material can be optional.

3. VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine

Sale
VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine, Bluetooth Connectivity DIY...
  • Rich Designs Library Included: Our vinyl cutter machine comes...
  • High Compatibility & Creative Freedom: Our vinyl cutter plotter...
  • Precise Intelligent Control: This vinyl plotter can automatically...
  • Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity: No longer constrained by cable...
  • Effortlessly Cut 100+ Types of Materials: Our vinyl plotter...
When we researched to find cheap, but at the same time, low-cost vinyl cutters, we found that the VEVOR Vinyl Cutter Machine was a good option for DIY people. This machine comes with built-in Bluetooth for wireless control and it is compatible with the Apple operating systems, with Android, Windows and Mac. It can also slice vinyl, paper, heat transfer material and many others, thus more suitable for custom made cards, decals, shirts, and domestic accessories.

Moreover, when purchasing the VEVOR cutting machine, there is immediately accessible a vast set of design templates, which can help even a complete novice start on their project immediately. The cutting mechanism provides clean and professional cutting experience. They also have an easy to use top control panel and its blade pressure is adjustable to cater for different thicknesses of material.

The absence of cables is another advantage because it allows the convenience during use due to the incorporation of Bluetooth technology. It is compatible with various design software applications but users may take quite some time to acquaint themselves with the settings of the specific machine. At the same time, compactness of the equipment will enable its usage in home studios or limited workplaces.

Pros:

  • Accepted devices (iOS, Android, Windows, Mac).
  • Huge selection of designs available for the convenience of project-based work.
  • Portable and easy to carry, fit perfectly in small spaces at workplaces.
  • Tough edge that provides clean and professional cutting of the material.

Cons:

  • Fewer patterns when compared to its competitors such as Cricut.

4. VEVOR Vinyl Cutter 28 Inch Vinyl Cutter Machine

While reviewing the best vinyl plotters for professional use, there was this VEVOR 28-Inch Vinyl Cutter Machine, which featured extra-large cutting space and force and speed controls, that would be great for signs, decals and big banners. This one can take up to 720mm of paper width in each sheet, so larger projects fit this machine more easily than on other standard-sized electric cutters. It comes with 20 blades meaning the user will have many spares in case they blunten within a long period, and it has a strong floor stand that enhances steadiness during its operations.

Users can easily set the cutting force ranging between 10 and 500 grams, and the cutting speed from 10 to 800 millimeters per second, making this cutter versatile in cutting nearly all existing materials, including vinyl, card stock, HTV, and even thin reflective materials. It does not have capability of Bluetooth but it has USB support and this unit is well supported by windows OS though it is not natively supported on MAC OS.

The user operation interface and control panel seem very intuitive for changing operations; however, to set the parameters and software options, the user will need to understand how options work. The VEVOR machine is recommended especially for people who engage in professional crafting, businessmen, or sign makers who need a strong but cheap vinyl plotter for various projects.

Pros:

  • USB connection means that one is guaranteed of fast and reliable data transmission.
  • Come with 20 blades for replacement, and help to upgrade the using-life of the machine.
  • Supporting floor stand is strong and thus prevents the machine from wobbling during use.
  • Compatible with many materials – great for signage and banners – HTV friendly.

Cons:

  • Only works with Cricut’s online
  • Design Space software
  • Installation of the software is relatively easy although time demanding and more so for first time users.
  • Noise production is said to increase with speed.

5. Silhouette Cameo 5 12 inch Vinyl Cutting Machine 

Silhouette Cameo 5 12 inch Vinyl Cutting Machine with...
  • The new Silhouette Cameo 5 12 inch vinyl cutting machine/plotter...
  • IPT Technology:optimizes cut orders, providing a tension-free...
  • New Tool Options: New electric tool options expand the creative...
  • SNA: Silhouette New Architecture means precision, more precise...
  • 12 inch cutting machine, 1 year limited warranty
When looking at which vinyl cutters are efficient, easy to use, yet powerful, the Silhouette Cameo 5 12-Inch Vinyl Cutting Machine really caught our eye. The Matte Pink Edition gives a great look, which is an added advantage to those who want someone that looks good besides functioning. It works with vinyl, heat transfer vinyl, paper and card motor; and comes with additional features facilitated by the Silhouette Studio Software.

The blade size of cutting width 12 inches is convenient for home and small business usage while the new technologies in SNA (Silhouette Network Access) and IPT (Intelligent Path Technology) results smoother and efficient cutting. This model can cut materials that are up to 3mm thick which include fabrics, foam etc, making it perfect for any craft. It is a 50 dB operation that makes it nearly silent enough for environments where one might have to work alongside others or at home.

Furthermore, the Cameo 5 can use cutting mats and Smart Materials which allow users more versatility. The electric tool head of this pencil sharpener enables one to switch easily from one tool such as pen, blade, or scored tool and so on.

Pros:

  • Both SNA and IPT technologies enhance the speed of cutting and add more accuracy to the same.
  • Suits for foam and fabric cutting, and ideal for cutting material up to 3mm in thickness.
  • With only 50 dB noise production, it is ideal for home use as well as use in shared areas.
  • Electrical tool head has intelligent tool recognition and change over features.

Cons:

  • Has to be connected to a computer—cannot be a separate machine that does not need the computer.
  • Lacking some WAP functions and being outside of reach of some key Bluetooth opposites.

Best Vinyl Cutter Brands On The Market

As you may see, there are many various best vinyl cutting machines existing nowadays, with all the possible brands offering really great vinyl cutter resources. Just in case there anything that was left still unclear, then let’s explain the best brands (in our point of view) of the modern days.

1. Roland

Roland DGA Corporation has indeed a specialization of manufacturing some of the best cutting machines for vinyl; this being the DGA arm of an American company, is the American wing of an international company that has been at the forefront of innovations as relating of various technologies.

Located out of Japan, Roland has been a leader of innovation from the company’s inception in 1981 for the development of 3D modeling and for numerous forms of professional graphic arts. Their vinyl cutter technology just like their 3D scanners, engravers and thermal transfer cutters – simply amazing.

That is why as a brand, Roland deserves every speck of appreciation they get for their good work in several fields, and this in particular relates to them – they are building some of the finest vinyl cutting machines on this planet, and no one should be shocked by this. In terms of contour cutting and the potential for creative work, Roland is pushing the envelope almost across the board as far as today’s vinyl cutter is concerned.

2. Graphtec

It was established in the 194s but this origin of Graphtec in making the best vinyl cutter products on the planet began early in the 196-s when the business had not even developed their first plotters.

Now it has grown, I would even say that they successfully progress through all stages of the technological revolution due to the creation of great printers, plotters, and cutters. Some people believe the best vinyl cutter is made by Graphtec; the output is robust, aesthetically sound, and most importantly authentic.

From such petite inception in the middle of this century, Graphtec has grown from a mere, small Incubant business to become an unqualified global odd, in these technologies.

3. GCC

Moreover, given that GCC also specializes in providing award-winning technologies, when you get involved with GCC you are guaranteed that every vinyl cutter machine features a stamp of approval and workmanship that only the creative brains at GCC can deliver. It also has a history of delivering good and some would argue the very best products when it comes to the cutting, plotting, and printing.

Having a range of some of the finest inkjet printers, laser markers and cutters (and engravers), as well as a range of other products that are invaluable within numerous sectors, their line of vinyl cutting plotters are renowned for being fast, accurate and very robust.

They are not as old as some of their competitors but they do have 50 years experience now and they are very much of the modern world including very strict and very thorough testing and certification of quality which is recognized all over the world in every type of industry.

4. USCutter

Having emerged in the 21s century, USCutter arrived on the scene and knew they had to contribute something special to the vinyl cutter game in order to stand out from the rest… And they found that distinctive property: value.

Even now, people having their own small business and those who work with a lower budget still turn to USCutter’s products and services mainly because they offer the equally high quality service as compared to several other competitors but for a much heftier price.

While some people may not like the fact that USCutter makes the best vinyl cutter on the market, very little will argue the fact that it is the best vinyl cutter, value per dollar spent.

Furthermore it does not include unfavorable losses as they stock a wide range of products such as vinyl cutters and cutting tools for a wide host of applications, versatile in their function to meet the specific and ever-changing requirements of the vast number of customers they have.

If you are a small business owner, a hobbyist or working on any form of an independent project which can benefit from an exceedingly good vinyl cutter then chances are that USCutter is the brand for you.

5. Cricut

Cricut is yet another of the emergent brands which originates from American context and is still progressing in bringing novelties to the best vinyl cutting machine game.

Another great option is Cricut, if you want to find easy-to-use cutting machines, infusible ink, the materials that are employed in the process.

Where they seem to diverge from the crowd is not in the assertion that they “produce the best machine,” but rather that their company provides premium services; every machine is excellent, and reasonably priced, but with outstanding customer service.

6. Silhouette

Some of the fascinating products created by Silhouette include Portrait, Curio, Cameo and Mint software, and, Mint Studio and Silhouette Studio; the later is easy to use as well as being as exceptionally brilliant as each vinyl cutter machine that Silhouette has to offer; especially in regards to its value; including the Camero.

Their creativity pervades all facets of the operation from the machine to the software to specific aspects of the vinyl cutter, for instance, ranges of options regarding cutting width and cutting force, the cutting speed– customers who use silhouette have a lot to say about how the operation is very much open-ended and therefore capable of generating a wide range of possibilities; an easy to use and high quality vinyl cutter that really stands out from its peers in its price bracket.

7. Brother

Brother has transformed from an organization that began in the early years of the twentieth century as a sewing machine manufacturer into a modern twenty-first century technology company with several special products in the realm of printers, scanners and viny cutting equipment.

Unfortunately, their vinyl cutting game is not quite as good as these others we have mentioned in many ways, but it looks like they are getting there (based on their capacity to adapt to the conditions of so many other technologies and subsequently take over the top [spot of so many diverse, dynamic fields.

Don’t let your guard down when you hear Brother – they have this ScanNCut machine that could get there, it has potential but it’s not there yet.

The Final Step

So, if you’re enlightened with this rundown of the top vinyl cutters, you are ready to choose the right model for yourself. All in all, no matter what your crafting level is, you will be guaranteed to have the best vinyl cutting machine in the list above.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which vinyl cutting machine is best?

It really boils down to the needs and requirements of the user but if one wants our ultimate pick it would be the Brother ScanNCut SDX125E Electronic DIY Cutting Machine.

2. What can you do with a vinyl cutting machine?

The possibilities are limitless when using a vinyl cutter. It means what you can draw on t-shirts and apparels, stickers and signboards, in wood carving, walls and card making, and so on and so forth.

If you have no idea where to get stickers, these best sticker websites will provide you with some tips.

3. How much does a vinyl cutter cost?

Vinyl cutting machines can cost as low as $150 up to $1000s.

4. Do vinyl cutters also print?

That is the difference in a Vinyl cutter and a Vinyl plotter. The vinyl cutters, well, cut, whereas the vinyl plotters using a pen.

5. How does a vinyl cutter work?

A vinyl cutting machine operates a blade that inscribes across figures on a sheet or vinyl but does not cut into the release liner. The motion is lateral and rotational; the vinyl moves below.

6. Can a vinyl cutter cut paper?

In short, yes, they’re obviously designed to cut vinyl, but they will work on materials such as paper or plastic but when doing so the blade will be quite dull.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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