Compare Cricut Explore 3 vs. Silhouette Cameo 4 (Which Is Best?)

Silhouette Cameo 4 vs Cricut Explore 3 Specs

Let's start by looking at how the features between Cameo 4 and Explore 3 compare.

Cricut Explore 3 Main Features

Here is a list of the main features of the Explore 3 so you can quickly compare them to the Cameo 4 features below.

• 350g force
• Bluetooth
• Control buttons
• Double tool holder
• Design software
• Compact size
• Cutting Size: 13”x 24″ (for all materials, except for Smart Materials which it can cut 13″ x 12′).

Silhouette Cameo 4 Main Features

Here is a list of the main features of the Cameo 4 so you can quickly compare it to the Explore 3 features above.

• 5kg force
• Bluetooth
• Multiple tools
• Single tap AutoBlade
• Dual motor system
• Design software
• Touch panel
• Automatic tool detection
• Cutting Size: 12” x 10’

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Cricut Explore 3 vs. Cameo 4 Detailed Comparison

Okay, now that we know that the Cameo 4 is way stronger (5kg force instead of 350g) than the Explore 3, but is that reason enough to choose the Cameo 4?

Let's have a more detailed look at how they compare.

1. Explore 3 Ease of Use

I found that the Explore 3 machine itself is user-friendly and I think it is perfect for beginners.

The machine does most of the calculations for you. So all you have to do once you have your design is simply to tell it what material you want to cut and it will figure out how much pressure to use.

It will even prompt you to change over blades if you have the wrong one inserted.

I find that the Cricut Design Space Software is easier to use in comparison to Silhouette's design software (however, it is more limiting if you are an advanced user).

You can also use some aspects of Cricut's Design Space for free.

The free version is mostly geared towards crafters who like to create their own designs from scratch or for those who which to purchase their SVG files elsewhere, however, there is an option for a Cricut Access membership that includes loads of premade designs, projects, and fonts.

What I like about Cricut Design Space is that they have heaps of gorgeous projects that beginners can use. It includes the designs together with step-by-step instructions.

I am a Cricut fan myself, and if all you want to do is cut basic materials such as paper, cardstock, and vinyl (it can cut over 100+ materials), then the Explore 3 could be a great option for you.

And the free software is a nice touch!

Check the price for the Explore 3 on Amazon here.

If you want to be able to cut thicker materials, then the Cameo 4 will be better for you.

2. Cameo 4 Ease of Use

The Cameo 4 isn’t just Silhouette’s new flagship vinyl cutter; it is also the manufacturer’s most user-friendly vinyl-cutting machine to date.

There have been numerous software improvements, including a touch panel and a few one-touch operations, which simplify the cutting process.

Furthermore, the new weeding tool makes it much easier to see where the excess vinyl should be cut.

Overall I find that the Silhouette Studio Software has more of a learning curve in comparison to Explore 3, but if you stick with it, it will give you more flexibility in design concepts.

Check the price of the Cameo 4 on Amazon here.

3. Cutting Power

The Explore 3 is a small machine. This machine delivers 350g of downward force, which is great for your standard materials like cardstock and vinyl.

However, the Cameo 4 is a different kind of beast. With improved motors, its 5kg downward force can handle any project for small businesses and DIYers.

The extra power allows it to work with thick and complicated materials, such as basswood, foam, and leather. This is something that Explore 3 simply can’t do.

In this category, Cameo 4 wins by a landslide.

Check the price of the Cameo 4 on Amazon here.

4. Cutting Speed

When comparing the cutting speed – it tells a slightly different story.

While the Cameo 4 is faster than the Explore 3 in cutting straight lines and has a higher acceleration speed, the differences may not be as significant as you would expect from looking at the difference in downward cutting force alone.

The Explore 3 is already a fast-cutting machine, and now with the increased cutting speed when using Cricut Smart Materials, the Explore 3 is expected to match the Cameo 4 (if not exceed them) cutting speeds.

This means that both these machines are now equally matched. If speed is important to you, that means that you can choose either of these machines and you will be happy.

Check Availability for the Cameo 4 Here

Check Availability for the Explore 3 Here

5. Cutting Capacity

The Explore 3 now has a greater cutting capacity of up to 13″ x 12′ when using Cricut Smart Materials.

This increased cutting capacity won’t help you with huge projects if you do not use Cricut's Smart Materials.

The maximum cutting size when NOT using Smart Materials is reduced to 13”x 24″, which is good enough for most projects but not even close to the Cameo 4’s 12”x 10’ maximum cutting size.

But do you really have to cut 10 ft of anything in one go? That’s a whole other question.

The Explore 3 already matches Cricut’s most popular machine in cutting size, so you may not need a larger cutting size.

If you are planning on making loads of larger projects, then I recommend you get the Cameo 4. I'm not a fan of the Smart Materials and I love that the Cameo 4 can cut any brand of material matless.

Check the price of the Cameo 4 on Amazon here.

6. Matless Cutting

The Cameo 4 can cut without a mat when using its kiss-cut action for rolled materials, or its pop-out cutting feature for paper and cardstock.

What is important to note is the Silhouette machine can cut any brand of material whereas the Cricut machine can ONLY cut the Cricut Smart Materials matless.

The Explore 3 can cut Smart Materials (vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock) without the use of a mat – however, for all the other types of brands and types of material, you will still have to invest in mats (which can add up in cost over time).

The freedom that the Cameo 4 gives you to cut various material types without using a cutting mat and not being limited to a specific brand means that the Cricut Explore 3 trails behind in this capability.

My preference if you want to save your money on buying mats over the years and go for matless cutting, is the Cameo 4.

Check the price of the Cameo 4 on Amazon here.

7. Tools

In the tools department, the Cricut Explore 3 is the winner.

The Cameo 4 has three cutting tools as opposed to the six tools for cutting, writing, and foiling & more that you can use with the Explore 3.

With Cricut's upgrade of moving from a Smart Set Dial to control buttons on the Explore 3, the Explore 3 is more versatile and easier to use with the various tools due to the automatic tool detection feature.

The Cameo 4 is very similar in this regard. This allows the machines to make all the necessary adjustments for you.

Let's have a look at what tools you can use with each machine.

Cricut Explore 3:

The Cricut Explore 3 can cut, write, draw, foil, and score. You will only receive the premium fine-point blade in the box, the rest will all be additional purchases.

A list of compatible tools and blades includes:

• Premium fine Point blade (for cutting most standard materials)
• Deep Point blade (for cutting thicker materials such as felt and magnet sheets)
• Bonded fabric blade (for cutting bonded fabric)
• Scoring stylus
• Foil transfer tool (for adding foil highlights to paper, cardstock et)
• Pens and markers

On top of that, you also have the option of purchasing a roll-holder which works perfectly with the Explore 3 (great for larger projects).

If you love tools and you love being able to do loads of awesome things, then the clear winner is the Explore 3.

Check the price for the Explore 3 on Amazon here.

Silhouette Cameo 4:

The Cameo 4 can only cut and write. (You can use third-party tools to foil, etch and engrave). You will only receive the Auto Blade, ratchet tool, and four tool adapters in your box.

A list of compatible tools and blades includes:

• Auto Blade (to cut most standard materials)
• Deep Cut Blade
• Kraft Blade (to cut thicker materials – up to 3mm thick)
• Rotary Blade (to cut fabric)
• Punch Tool (to make weeding a heck of a lot easier)
• Pens

Whilst it seems that the Cameo 4 is more limited in what it can do, you have to remember that it can cut a much larger variety of materials.

For example, you can cut things like thick leather, basswood, and balsa wood with the Kraft blade. And you can cut material with the Rotary Blade – the Explore 3 can't manage either of those materials.

You also do have the option of extending the Cameo 4's capabilities by using third-party tools. You can use Foil Quill tips and the Amy Chomas etching and engraving tips.

What is also fantastic about the Cameo 4 is that it comes with a built-in Crosscutter and built-in Roll Feeder. (This means you don't have to spend extra money to purchase the roll feeder as with the Explore 3).

Check the price of the Cameo 4 on Amazon here.

8. Precision

Here’s one area where the Explore 3 also performs admirably, though it trails the Cameo 4. The Explore 3 is known for its impressive cutting precision.

It is known to be faster and more precise than the Cameo 3, for instance, with a precision comparable to the Cricut Maker 3, the other top manufacturer’s flagship machine.

With that in mind, the Cameo 4, for all its bells and whistles, may not be much of an improvement over the compact Explore 3.

At least not for small projects like patches, cards, etc. The better option if you wish to cut intricate designs is the Explore 3.

Check the price for the Explore 3 on Amazon here.

9. Pricing

This is where things get interesting. The recommended retail price for the Explore 3 is $299.99, the same price as the Cameo 4.

This means that the Cricut Explore 3 (the newer machine) sells for the same price as the Cameo 4.

Now it is important to keep in mind that the Cameo 4 was released way back in September 2019. Whilst Explore 3 came out in June 2021. So a question on my mind is – how long till the Cameo 5 will be released? But there is no answer to that question yet!

Despite the Cameo 4 being an older model in comparison to the newer Explore 3, it can more types of materials for the same price as the Explore 3. So whilst I'm a fan of Cricut, in this case to me the clear winner is the Cameo 4.

Purchase the Cameo 4 Here

Purchase the Explore Air 3 Here

Want more detailed information on these machines?

• Read our full Cameo 4 review post, and see the Explore 3 review post here.
• You might also find our post full of Cricut Reviews helpful if you want to compare Explore 3 to other Cricut machines.

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Verdict: Cricut Explore 3 vs. Silhouette Cameo 4

Both the Cameo 4 and the Explore 3 vinyl cutters have significant improvements over their predecessors.

The Explore 3 is a popular and reliable compact tabletop machine. Its ability to cut and draw simultaneously is a top draw.

I love the range of tools that is available for this machine.

It can cut, write, draw, foil, and score.

This means you can create gorgeous cards, fantastic 3D projects, gift boxes, vinyl decals, iron-on designs, print-then-cut stickers, and beautiful wedding invitations and so much more!

Awesome New Features

I just did my first mat-less project on my new Explore 3. This is an upgrade for me from my Explore Air and it is crazy fast compared to my older model.

I used the smart vinyl, which when used with the Explore 3 allows you to cut without a mat.

There will be a lot of savings not having to buy mats anymore, however I do plan to keep a mat or 2 around, because it will come in useful for cutting with scraps.

ChiTownCraftyGirl (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I think this is an excellent machine for beginners.

With similar speeds, the Cameo 4 can cut everything the Explore 3 can cut PLUS more!

The Cameo 4 can also handle cutting thicker materials as well as fabric. So if you wish to work with fabric and materials such as wood, then this is the obvious choice!

The Cameo 4 is the best choice if you are a more advanced user.

Buy this before the “other” brand

Really the superior vinyl cutting machine. I still have the “other” brand machine that I use on occasion, but Silhouettes software and machine work so much better.

The software is more advanced and after playing around with it to see what the features or is a breeze to use.

Cuts are more precise and the print and cut feature is far easier to use and allows for better use of vinyl or paper.

Anonymous (Reviewed on JOANN) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

However, if you are not worried about larger-scale projects and don't need to craft with thick materials, then it really will come down to which machine and software you feel more comfortable with.

The Cricut software is easier to use for beginners, but the Silhouette offers more versatility in design.

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Conclusion 

To recap, both machines are the same price at $299.99; the Explore 3 is smaller and therefore takes up less space than the Cameo 4.

The Cameo 4 outshines the Explore 3 with its ability as a vinyl cutting machine to cut any material brand regarding its cutting capacity and matless cutting.

That being said, not everyone needs that level of versatility or the cutting power of the Cameo 4.

If you already own the Explore 3 predecessor machine, the Explore Air 2, and if you don’t plan on expanding your operation or working with thicker materials, then you will probably prefer to stick to the Cricut brand and grab the Explore 3.

If this is the first vinyl cutter you will be purchasing, then it simply makes sense to go with the newest machine, the Explore 3. 

You’ll have a new toy that’s fun, easy to use, and capable of many projects.

Additional Resources:

• Find out how these brands compare in our guide: Cricut vs Silhouette
• See what Silhouette's Newest Machine is in our blog post here
• Visit our DIY craft section for loads of tutorials to get you started
• Not sure either of these machines are for you? See the best cutters for vinyl here.
• Love reading comparison guides? See our Cricut Joy vs Cricut Maker 3 comparison guide here.
• Find our comparison of the Cricut Explore Air 2 vs Silhouette Cameo 4 here
• And lastly our Cameo 4 vs Cricut Maker comparison post here.

Our process involves independent research, testing, and reviewing to recommend the best products. Learn more here.