Beth Nicholls impressed by Cricut's new Joy 2 and Explore machines

Cricut has introduced what it calls the next generation of its smart cutting machines with a claim that the new models "have all the capabilities of previous generations of machines, but now they cut at speeds up to twice as fast." The company prices the Cricut Explore 4 at $249.99 and the Cricut Maker 4 at $399.99, undercutting prior MSRPs of the Explore 3 at $319 and the previous Maker at $429.

Cricut frames the launches as an improved out-of-box experience, saying "Available in two colors, both machines come with an elevated out-of-box experience with more materials and accessories included, along with increased ease-of-use of Design Space, all at lower price points than previous generation of machines." The brand also notes that the speed comparisons are "Compared to previous generation machines when using machine mat. Speed varies based on material setting," and it explains that included materials were calculated "by using the average project size of 4 in x 6 in and multiplying it by the materials included in the box."

Hands-on testing by reviewer Beth Nicholls reinforces the speed and accuracy claims. Nicholls writes, "I've been testing out this smart cutting machine for around a month now, and I'm amazed at the sheer speed and accuracy of this mighty maker." She adds that "What sets the Maker 4 apart from its siblings is the enhanced 2X faster cutting speeds than the previous Maker model" and that "The Maker 4 is the first Cricut machine that I've ever tested, and it certainly doesn't disappoint."

Nicholls also reports that Cricut's software makes the machines approachable for first-time users. "The Cricut Design Space software and smartphone app are super simple to use, and if you get stuck, there are a ton of helpful tutorials online," she writes. At the same time she flags a cost trade-off for convenience: "The concept of smart materials can make projects hassle-free, although these do cost a lot more than third-party materials."

There is a naming discrepancy across sources that matters for buyers trying to compare models. An excerpt from Beth Nicholls' original opening line on 27 February 2026 notes, "Can you believe that Cricut has been around for 20 years? To celebrate this special Anniversary and mark the occasion, the company has launched not one, but two brand-new cutting machines – the Cricut Joy 2 and the Cricut Explore 5 – available to buy ri" but that sentence is truncated and does not include prices or specs for the Joy 2 and Explore 5. Meanwhile Cricut's announcement and the available reviews focus on Explore 4 and Maker 4. The supplied materials do not reconcile whether Joy 2 and Explore 5 are separate anniversary SKUs or part of the same rollout.

For shoppers who want help choosing and learning, Cricut directs users to its online resources: "To learn how to use machines, please visit Cricut YouTube" and "If you have specific questions about your machine, please visit Cricut Help," and it recommends a Machine Quiz and Comparison Chart. The company also maintains social presence on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Taken together, the lower MSRPs of $249.99 for Explore 4 and $399.99 for Maker 4, the company’s claim of up to 2X faster cutting, and Nicholls’ month-long testing that praises speed and usability make these launches notable for anyone buying a machine for personalized gifts and small-batch creation.