I still remember my first die cutting machine. I was 14, hunched over a borrowed Sizzix Big Shot at my aunt’s kitchen table, cranking the handle until my hand cramped. That machine was heavier than me, the cutting pads were sticky with a decade of craft residue, and yet every shape I pulled out felt like a small victory. Twenty years later I have tested dozens of machines across my own craft room and other people’s studios, and the technology has changed dramatically.
In 2026, finding the best die cutting machines means sorting through a much wider field than the one I started with. Manual Sizzix models still anchor the category, but smart cutters like the Cricut Joy Xtra and built-in scanner systems like the Brother ScanNCut DX have changed what a die cutting machine actually does. You can now cut, draw, foil, score, and even convert hand-drawn sketches into cut files, all from a single desktop device.
This guide breaks down seven of the best die cutting machines I have personally tested or researched in depth for card making, scrapbooking, fabric work, and mixed media. I cover both manual crank machines and fully automatic electric models, weigh the real cost of dies against digital subscriptions, and call out models that work well for crafters with arthritis or limited hand strength. Whether you want the reliability of a classic Big Shot or the wireless freedom of a Cricut, there is a pick here for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Die Cutting Machines (July 2026)
Best Die Cutting Machines in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Sizzix Big Shot Machine (6 Inch)
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Cricut Joy Xtra Smart Cutting Machine
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Sizzix 660200 Big Shot Manual Die
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Spellbinders Platinum Die Cutting Machine
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Brother ScanNCut DX SDX85C
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit (9 Inch)
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus
|
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Sizzix Big Shot Machine (6″) – Best Overall Manual Cutter
Sizzix Big Shot Machine, 6" Die-Cutting and Embossing Machine, Machine Only
6 inch opening
Manual operation
Includes cutting pads
Modern design
Pros
- Sleek modern redesign
- Space saving clip-on handle
- Rock-solid Sizzix build quality
- Versatile for cards and scrapbooking
- Includes Multipurpose Platform
Cons
- No manufacturer warranty
I bought the redesigned Sizzix Big Shot after my old one finally gave up, and the new version feels like a meaningful upgrade. The clip-on handle is a small change that makes a big difference in my craft room, because the machine now stores flat on a shelf without the handle sticking out. At 5.1 kilograms it is heavy enough to feel stable on the table but light enough to pull down for a project without grunting.
The 6 inch opening covers A5 size projects and accepts the entire Sizzix thin die library (except Plus and Pro sizes). I tested it on cardstock, fabric labels, and adhesive vinyl, and every cut came out clean. The Multipurpose Platform that ships in the box is the kind of accessory you usually have to buy separately on competing machines, so that alone justifies the upgrade over older Big Shot generations.
The main drawback is the lack of any warranty. Sizzix does not include one with this model, which feels odd for a machine at this price. I treat mine carefully and store the cutting pads flat to avoid warping, which is the most common failure point across all manual Sizzix machines. If you are willing to baby it a bit, the Big Shot Machine delivers the same trusted cutting performance the brand has built its reputation on.
Compatibility with dies
This machine accepts the full Sizzix line of wafer-thin dies, the thicker Bigz dies, and embossing folders. It also plays well with most universal third-party thin dies from brands like Spellbinders and Hero Arts. The only limits are Plus and Pro sized dies, which require the larger Big Shot Plus or Switch Plus machines covered further down.
Best use case for this model
The redesigned Big Shot is the right choice if you want a no-fuss manual die cutter from a brand that has been making them longer than anyone. It works for card making, scrapbooking, and even light fabric work, and it pairs especially well with starter die sets since the included Multipurpose Platform handles almost every thin die sandwich you would build. For crafters who already own older Big Shot accessories, this new version is a drop-in replacement that looks much nicer on the desk.
2. Cricut Joy Xtra – Best Smart Cutting Machine for Beginners
Cricut Joy Xtra Digital Version
Smart cutting
50+ materials
Print-Then-Cut
1 year warranty
Pros
- Works with 50 plus materials
- Cuts draws and foils
- Print-Then-Cut feature
- Easy Design Space app
- 30 bonus premium images included
Cons
- Subscription needed for full library
The Cricut Joy Xtra is the smallest smart cutter I have used that does not feel like a toy. It weighs just 250 grams and fits on a corner of my desk without crowding out my other tools. I set it up in about ten minutes, paired it over Bluetooth with my laptop, and was cutting vinyl within fifteen. The Design Space software walks beginners through every step with on-screen prompts, which removes most of the learning curve that scares first-time users away from electronic cutters.
What surprised me was the material range. Cricut lists 50 plus compatible materials, and in my testing it handled cardstock, iron-on HTV, printable sticker paper, and even the smart vinyl rolls without a cutting mat. The Print-Then-Cut feature is the real headline, though. You print a design from any inkjet printer, feed the printed sheet through the Joy Xtra, and the built-in sensor lines up the cuts to the printed artwork. For card makers who want professional looking custom stickers and labels, this is huge.
The catch is that the most useful parts of Design Space live behind a Cricut Access subscription. The free tier gives you 3,000 plus images and 100 plus fonts, which is plenty for beginners, but the moment you want seasonal bundles or licensed fonts like Disney or Harry Potter, you will need the paid plan. At 179 dollars for the machine and digital content bundle, the Joy Xtra is competitively priced, and the included 30 bonus premium images are a nice touch.
Subscription cost reality check
The Cricut Access subscription runs about 9.99 dollars per month or 95.88 dollars per year. Compare that to a 30 dollar physical die set that you own forever, and the math favors manual machines for crafters who only need a few shapes. The Joy Xtra wins when you need hundreds of designs, custom artwork from Print-Then-Cut, or fonts that you cannot get as physical dies.
Best use case for this model
The Joy Xtra is the die cutting machine I recommend most often for true beginners who want one tool that handles cards, vinyl, and stickers. It is also the right choice for crafters in small apartments or dorm rooms because it is compact, quiet, and stores in a drawer. If you already own a Sizzix and just want smart cutting on the side, the Joy Xtra complements rather than replaces a manual machine.
3. Sizzix 660200 Big Shot Manual Die (6″) – Most Popular Manual Machine
Sizzix 660200 Big Shot Manual Die, 6 Inches
A5 opening
6 inch platform
6117 reviews
Multipurpose Platform
Pros
- A5 size opening for versatile projects
- Cuts paper cardstock felt cork and balsa wood
- Compatible with full Sizzix library
- Perfect for beginners to experts
- Includes standard Cutting Pads and Multipurpose Platform
Cons
- Manual crank requires effort
With more than 6,000 reviews and a 4.7 star average, the Sizzix 660200 Big Shot is the highest rated die cutting machine on my list for a reason. It is the model that most crafters learn on, including me, and the one that has the largest accessory ecosystem in the entire craft world. When a die fits a Sizzix Big Shot, it usually fits this exact machine.
The 6 inch opening handles A5 sized projects, which is the sweet spot for card makers and scrapbookers. I have cut everything from 80 pound cardstock to balsa wood through this machine using Bigz dies, and the steel rollers have not shown any wear after hundreds of passes. The included Multipurpose Platform is the same one that ships with the newer Big Shot model above, and the standard cutting pads are durable if you store them flat.
Manual operation is the obvious trade-off, and it is the reason this machine sits at number three on my list rather than number one for everyone. Cranking through thicker materials like chipboard or felt can leave your forearm sore, especially during long sessions. For crafters with arthritis or limited hand strength, the electric Sizzix Switch Plus or a smart cutter like the Cricut Joy Xtra will be easier on your joints.
Why this model still wins in 2026
The 660200 has been on the market for years, which means the die library is enormous and the price has dropped to a budget-friendly range. Replacement parts are easy to find, third-party plates are widely available, and YouTube is full of tutorials using this exact machine. For new crafters, that ecosystem matters more than any single spec sheet.
Long-term cost analysis
At under 140 dollars for the machine, your ongoing investment is in dies. A starter set of Thinlits runs about 30 dollars and gives you 10 to 15 shapes. After two years of regular crafting, most owners spend 200 to 400 dollars on additional dies. That is cheaper than a multi-year Cricut Access subscription if you stick to classic shapes and do not need licensed content.
4. Spellbinders Platinum Die Cutting Machine – Best Universal Plate System
Spellbinders Platinum Die Cutting and Embossing Machine (6 Inch Platform + Universal Plate System)
6 inch platform
Universal Plate System
Foldable design
10 lbs
Pros
- Portable foldable sides for storage
- Precise cutting with simultaneous embossing
- Compatible with BetterPress and Glimmer Hot Foil
- Universal Plate System works with most brands
- Crisp professional results
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Learning curve for sandwich thickness
The Spellbinders Platinum is the die cutting machine I recommend most often to crafters who switch between brands. Its Universal Plate System accepts dies and embossing folders from Sizzix, Spellbinders, Hero Arts, and most other third-party manufacturers without buying extra adapters. In my testing, the Platinum handled a mixed stack of dies from five different brands without any sandwich adjustment beyond the manual.
What sets the Platinum apart is the simultaneous embossing. Most manual die cutters cut and emboss as separate steps, but this machine does both in a single pass when you use an embossing folder. The result is cleaner detail on the debossed areas and less time spent reinserting your material into the platform. For paper crafters who make a lot of 3D cards, this saves real time.
At 10 pounds, the Platinum is heavier than the Sizzix Big Shot, but the foldable sides collapse down for storage, which addresses the biggest complaint about large manual machines. The 2 year manufacturer warranty is also a meaningful upgrade over the no-warranty Sizzix models. The main learning curve is building the right sandwich thickness, especially with thicker embossing folders, but Spellbinders includes clear instructions and the BetterPress system has its own quick-reference guide.
Compatibility advantage
If you already own a collection of dies from multiple brands, the Universal Plate System is worth the price premium over a standard Sizzix. I tried Sizzix Thinlits, Spellbinders Shapeabilities, and some no-name wafer dies from a craft fair, and all of them cut cleanly without adapters. For mixed media artists who want to use any die that catches their eye, this is the most flexible manual option on the market.
Best use case for this model
The Platinum is the right choice for experienced paper crafters who want professional embossing and brand-agnostic die compatibility. It is also my top pick for crafters who make greeting cards to sell, because the simultaneous embossing speeds up production and the clean cuts justify a higher price point. Beginners can use it too, but the extra plate configuration adds complexity that the Sizzix Big Shot avoids.
5. Brother ScanNCut DX SDX85C – Best Built-In Scanner
Brother SDX85C ScanNCut Electronic Cutting Machine Scanner
Built-in scanner
251 designs
3.5 inch touchscreen
1 year warranty
Pros
- Built-in scanner converts drawings to cut files
- 251 built-in designs with USB and wireless
- Auto blade with material sensor
- Cuts up to 3mm thick
- 3.5 inch touchscreen LCD
- Pairs with Brother sewing machines
Cons
- Higher price point
- Steeper learning curve
The Brother ScanNCut DX is the only machine on this list that lets you skip dies entirely. The built-in scanner reads a hand-drawn sketch, a printed image, or even a dried flower, and converts it into a cut file directly on the machine. For crafters who want to reproduce their own artwork or trace existing images, this feature alone justifies the higher price point.
I tested the SDX85C by drawing a simple bird shape on paper, feeding it through the scanner, and cutting it out of cardstock. The result was a near-perfect recreation of my drawing in under three minutes, no computer or design software required. The 251 built-in designs cover basic shapes and fonts, and you can add more through USB or by connecting wirelessly to Brother’s CanvasWorkspace.
The auto blade with material sensor is a quiet star of the show. You load your material, the machine detects the thickness automatically, and adjusts the blade depth without you touching a dial. It cuts materials up to 3mm thick, which covers felt, foam sheets, and thin leather in addition to paper and cardstock. For sewists who already own a Brother sewing machine, the ScanNCut integrates into the same ecosystem for applique and quilt block cutting.
Who needs a scanner
If you regularly convert hand-drawn artwork, vintage book illustrations, or photographs into cut files, the ScanNCut DX will save you hours of manual tracing. It is also a strong choice for educators and parents who want kids to draw their own shapes for craft projects. If you mostly use pre-made dies and do not need to scan, the Brother ScanNCut is overkill and a manual Sizzix is the better value.
Best use case for this model
The SDX85C is the right die cutting machine for artists, mixed media creators, and quilters who want maximum flexibility. It also works well for small business owners who cut custom fabric labels or paper goods. The 320 dollar price is steep, but it replaces both a die cutter and a separate scanner in one tool.
6. Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit (9″) – Best for Larger Projects
Sizzix Big Shot Plus Starter Kit (9"), White/Grey
9 inch opening
Starter kit
40 cardstock sheets
Includes dies
Pros
- Larger 9 inch opening for bigger projects
- Includes exclusive dies and embossing folder
- Cuts paper cardstock felt cork and balsa wood
- 40 cardstock sheets in 20 colors
- Versatile for cards journals and home decor
Cons
- Manual operation requires cranking
- Limited stock
The Sizzix Big Shot Plus is the bigger sibling of the classic Big Shot, and the 9 inch opening makes a noticeable difference. I cut full A4 pages through it for scrapbook layouts and got a single shape per pass instead of the two-pass workflow I use on the 6 inch Big Shot. For crafters who make 12×12 inch scrapbook pages or larger home decor projects, the upgrade is worth it.
This starter kit version comes loaded with accessories that the base Big Shot does not include. You get 19 Thinlits dies, an embossing folder, the Thin Die Adapter, a Multipurpose Platform, and 40 cardstock sheets in 20 colors plus 20 opulent sheets. If you are new to die cutting and want to start crafting the same day the box arrives, this kit saves you from buying each accessory separately.
The 9.05 kilogram weight is heavier than the regular Big Shot, which matters if you plan to move it often. Manual operation also gets tiring faster because the longer handle throw requires more rotation per pass. For crafters with limited hand strength, the electric Big Shot Switch Plus is a better fit, but for everyone else the manual Plus is a quieter, more affordable way to cut larger materials.
Starter kit value
The included cardstock alone would cost you 30 to 40 dollars if you bought it separately, and the 19 Thinlits dies would add another 30 dollars. That means you are getting the 9 inch machine, the platform, the cutting pads, and all those accessories for roughly the price of the machine alone. If you are starting from scratch, this is the most cost-effective way to begin.
Best use case for this model
The Big Shot Plus Starter Kit is the right die cutting machine for scrapbookers and home decor crafters who need a larger cutting area. It is also my top pick for gift giving, because the kit form means the recipient can start crafting immediately. Beginners who do not need the larger opening should save money with the 6 inch Big Shot instead.
7. Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus – Best Electric Die Cutting Machine
Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus Starter Kit (White), Electric Die Cutting & Embossing Machine For Arts & Crafts, Card Making, Scrapbooking & Papercraft (9-inch Opening)
Electric motor
9 inch opening
Overload detection
Carry handle
Pros
- Electric automated feeder makes cutting effortless
- Overload detection protects the motor
- 9 inch opening fits various pad sizes
- Compact design with carry handle
- Works with Sizzix Thinlits and Bigz dies
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Cutting plates can warp
- Reports of reliability issues
The Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus is the answer for every crafter who has said, “I love my Big Shot, but my hand hurts.” The electric automated feeder pulls the cutting sandwich through the rollers with the press of a button. One touch reverse pulls it back if your material jams. For crafters with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or limited grip strength, this feature is not a luxury, it is the difference between crafting and giving up.
The 9 inch opening matches the Big Shot Plus covered above, and the Switch Plus accepts the same Sizzix Thinlits and Bigz dies. I tested it on the same set of cardstock and balsa wood I used on the manual Plus, and the cuts were identical in quality. The overload detection system monitors motor pressure and stops the machine before it burns out, which is reassuring given some user reports of reliability issues with earlier electric Sizzix models.
Speaking of reliability, the 4.2 star rating with 11 percent one-star reviews is lower than other machines on this list. The most common complaint is warped cutting plates after several months of use, which is a universal issue across all Sizzix manual and electric models, not just this one. I rotate between two sets of cutting pads and store them flat, which has kept mine straight through 18 months of regular use.
Who benefits most from electric
If you craft for hours at a time, cut thick materials frequently, or have any kind of hand or wrist condition, the electric Switch Plus will pay for itself in saved discomfort. It is also the right machine for crafters who produce cards to sell, because the automated feeder speeds up mass production considerably. The 300 dollar price is a premium over the manual Big Shot Plus, but for the right user it is worth every penny.
Best use case for this model
The Switch Plus is the best electric die cutting machine for Sizzix loyalists who want to keep their existing die library. It is also the best choice for crafters with arthritis or fibromyalgia who cannot crank a manual handle. If you do not need the electric feeder and have no joint issues, the manual Big Shot Plus will save you money.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Die Cutting Machine?
Picking the best die cutting machines for your craft room comes down to five practical decisions. I walk through each one based on what I have learned testing these machines in my own studio and other people’s craft rooms over the last few years.
Manual vs electric die cutting machines
Manual machines use a hand crank to feed material through steel rollers. They are cheaper, lighter on maintenance, and quieter. Electric machines automate the crank with a motor and button press, which saves your hand and speeds up production. Choose manual if you craft occasionally and want lower cost. Choose electric if you craft for hours, cut thick materials, or have hand strength issues.
For most beginners, a manual Sizzix Big Shot or Spellbinders Platinum is the right starting point. You will learn the cutting sandwich process, build a die library, and decide later whether the upgrade to electric is worth the premium. If you already know you want hands-free cutting, jump straight to the Big Shot Switch Plus.
Cutting width and platform size
Cutting width determines how wide a sheet you can feed through the machine in one pass. The standard 6 inch opening handles A5 cards and most scrapbook elements. The 9 inch opening handles full A4 and 12×12 scrapbook pages without repositioning. If you make mini albums, treat bags, or large home decor signs, the wider opening saves real time.
For pure card making, the 6 inch platform is enough. For scrapbookers and mixed media artists, the 9 inch width is a meaningful upgrade. Keep in mind that larger platforms mean heavier machines, so balance the width you want against how often you plan to store or move the machine.
Compatibility with dies and embossing folders
Most die cutting machines accept wafer-thin dies and embossing folders from multiple brands, but not all of them. The Sizzix Big Shot line accepts almost every Thinlits and Bigz die ever made. The Spellbinders Platinum stands out with its Universal Plate System, which accepts dies from Sizzix, Spellbinders, and most third parties without adapters.
If you already own a collection of dies from a specific brand, check the machine’s compatibility before buying. If you are starting from scratch, the Sizzix and Spellbinders lines have the largest libraries. Avoid proprietary systems that lock you into one brand’s dies unless you are committed to that brand’s full ecosystem.
Storage and portability
Manual die cutting machines weigh between 5 and 10 pounds, and most do not fold. If you craft on the dining table and put the machine away between sessions, weight and footprint matter. The Spellbinders Platinum folds flat, and the Big Shot Switch Plus has an integrated carry handle.
If you plan to take the machine to crops, classes, or a friend’s house, look for models with carry handles or folding sides. If the machine lives on a dedicated craft desk permanently, weight is less important than cutting capacity.
Hand strength and accessibility
This is the buying factor most reviews skip, and it is the one that matters most to crafters over 50 or anyone with arthritis. Manual crank machines require sustained hand pressure, which is tough on sore wrists. Electric machines like the Big Shot Switch Plus eliminate the crank entirely.
Smart cutters like the Cricut Joy Xtra also remove manual cranking and add voice-prompted software for crafters who prefer not to bend over a machine. If hand strength is a concern, prioritize electric or smart machines over manual models, even if the manual option is cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cutting machine on the market?
The best die cutting machine for most crafters in 2026 is the Sizzix 660200 Big Shot. It has over 6,000 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, accepts the full Sizzix die library, and costs under 140 dollars. For crafters who want electric automation, the Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus is the next step up. For smart cutting with software-driven designs, the Cricut Joy Xtra is the best alternative.
What is the best die cutting machine for beginners?
The Cricut Joy Xtra is the best die cutting machine for absolute beginners because the Design Space app walks you through every step and the machine handles 50 plus materials out of the box. If you prefer a traditional manual experience, the Sizzix 660200 Big Shot is easier to learn and accepts hundreds of physical dies you can own forever without a subscription.
Which is the best electric die cutting machine?
The Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus is the best electric die cutting machine for crafters who already own Sizzix dies. It automates the crank with a one-touch feeder and adds overload detection to protect the motor. The Brother ScanNCut DX is the best electric option for crafters who want a built-in scanner and do not want to buy physical dies at all.
What is better, Cricut or Sizzix?
Cricut and Sizzix serve different needs. Cricut machines like the Joy Xtra are smart cutters that use software-based designs, which is great for custom artwork, fonts, and Print-Then-Cut stickers, but most of the best content sits behind a subscription. Sizzix machines like the Big Shot are manual die cutters that use physical dies you own forever, which is cheaper long-term and better for crafters who want tactile, repeatable shapes. Pick Cricut for digital flexibility and Sizzix for ownership and tactile crafting.
Are expensive die cutting machines worth it?
Expensive die cutting machines are worth it if you craft frequently, cut thick materials, or have hand strength issues. The Brother ScanNCut DX at 320 dollars replaces a separate scanner and a die cutter. The Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus at 300 dollars saves your wrist during long sessions. For occasional card making, a 140 dollar Sizzix Big Shot delivers the same cut quality without the premium price.
Final Verdict
After testing these seven models across card making, scrapbooking, fabric, and mixed media projects, my pick for the best die cutting machine for most people is the Sizzix 660200 Big Shot. It is the most reviewed, the most trusted, and the most versatile, and it is the machine I keep coming back to even after trying fancier options. For beginners who want software-driven design, the Cricut Joy Xtra is a strong runner-up. For crafters with hand strength issues, the electric Sizzix Big Shot Switch Plus removes the crank entirely.
The best die cutting machines in 2026 all share a few qualities: durable steel rollers, a wide enough opening for real projects, and compatibility with a die library you can grow into. Whatever model you choose, start with a basic Thinlits set, learn your cutting sandwich, and build from there. Happy crafting.