5 Silhouette Cameo Alternatives 【Cheap Cutting Machines 2021】

January 29, 2021
/ Reviews
/ By David Williams

When it comes to Cricut cutters or die-cutting machines, the only name that comes to our mind is Silhouette Cameo.

And why not. I mean, Cameo has remained the most popular name for years in this industry, and still, it is one of the best out there.

But as time has changed and so is technology, their many alternatives to Cameo on the market provide the same results, and some are even more efficient than the Cameo.

Having said, whether you’re an artist, professional designer, or a hobbyist, there is a die cutter for your specific needs other than the Silhouette Cameo.

Silhouette Cameo Alternative 2021:

Here is the list of the top Cameo Alternatives.

Products	Rating
Sizzix Big Shot Cutting/Embossing Machine	10 [Editors Choice]
Cricut Joy	8
AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Cutter	8
Brother ScanNCut Electronic Cutting Machine	7.5
USCutter Vinyl Cutter Plotter	7

Read More: 10 Best 3D Printers Under $1000

Sizzix Big Shot Cutting/Embossing Machine

Why we like it:

Separate storage compartments.

Portable design.
Release lever handle.

Pros	Cons
✅Simple to use.	❌Limited capacity than others.
✅Compatible with a wide range of dies.
✅Affordable price.
✅Suitable to cut various materials.

With this Sizzix Big Shot Cutting/Embossing Machine, we will take you to good old times. Yes, this Sizzix Big Shot features a manual die cutting operation, and the unit is simple to use. Despite being manual cutting, Big Shot is the perfect Cameo alternative.

Without using any complicated software or a power source, you can get the best cutting results. Using this machine is straightforward; just load the die and, by using the durable crank finish your tasks effortlessly. Moreover, this manual cutting and embossing machine are also perfect for scrapbookers and for all those who don’t like to use any cutting software.

As stated above, it features manual operation, but you cannot question its cutting delicacy. The machine is reliable and cuts materials as delicately as soft paper. You will also get a set of Thinlit dies and Bigz dies with the pack, but you can also use it with Framelit dies.

Lastly, it is well-suited to use with wide types of dies, and it is the main reason for its popularity compared to the other larger Sizzix Big Shot models. And it is the cheapest Cameo alternative on the market.

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Read more: Cricut Alternatives

Cricut Joy

Why we like it:

Compatible with 50+ materials.
Bluetooth connectivity.
Easy to set up

Pros	Cons
✅The machine’s dimensions are compact than Cameo and other machines.	❌Not the best choice to cut stickers.
✅Affordable price.
✅Smooth Bluetooth connectivity.
✅Simple to use.

Next on the list, we have the compact alternative to Cameo, the Circuit Joy. The machine is so compact that you can place it comfortably in your drawer. Unlike Silhouette Cameo, this Circuit Joy is a highly portable die cutter and measures only 9 inches and 5.5 in width. Furthermore, you can also pair it wirelessly to your phone or laptop via Bluetooth.

Another thing worthy of mentioning here is that, unlike Silhouette Cameo, you can use it without any cutting mats.

However, to use it without mats, you will have to use it with Cricut’s own materials such as HTV iron-on, vinyl, and label vinyl. However, you will find a grip mat in the pack.

As per consumer reports, people also appreciated that it is the best Cameo alternative especially for quick DIY projects and for cutting decorative cards. Lastly, it lacks some high-end features as it is compact and portable, but for basic cutting tasks and small projects, this is your safest bet.

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AccuQuilt GO! Fabric Cutter

Why we like it:

90% faster than others.
Comes with cutting mats.

Pattern book included.

Pros	Cons
✅The cutting machine is simple to operate.	❌The machine’s weight is on the higher side.
✅Compact dimensions and foldable design.
✅Suitable to cut various materials.

It’s simple to cut fabric and other soft materials with any cutting machine, but the problem arises when the material is extra thick, and the simple process becomes a test for a machine. But when you have the AccuQuilt GO Fabric Cutter, this is not an issue.

This cutting machine is specially made to cut thick fabric with precision and quickly. With this AccuQuilt GO Fabric Cutter, you will get two square dies and a half-square triangular shaped die with a cutting mat. You can purchase more dies separately.

Furthermore, this AccuQuilt machine is suitable for experts as well as for beginners. The cutting results are precise, and it allows you to cut six layers at a time. The cutting results are not only accurate, but the machine is much faster than the others.

Lastly, it features a foldable design, and overall dimensions are compact that allows for simple storage. You can also carry it if you want but keep in mind the machine is a bit on the heavier side.

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Brother ScanNCut SDX85 Electronic DIY Cutting Machine

Why we like it:

Built-in scanner.
3.47″ touchscreen LCD display.

Comes with 251 built-in designs.

Pros	Cons
✅You can view and edit your designs on the screen.	❌The machine’s setup is complicated.
✅Includes 251 built-in patterns.
✅It comes with a sturdy scanner that works flawlessly.
✅Includes multiple connectivity options.

Our next pick is the perfect alternative to Cameo if you want a machine to cut paper and tissue, the Brother ScanNCut SDX125E DIY electronic cutting machine. The machine is best to craft custom cards, stickers, labels, and more.

Moreover, the most prominent feature of this Brother ScanNCut cutting machine is that you can scan your designs, and it will draw and cut them to perfection for you. This is something exclusive, and you will not find this function in other cutting machines. Besides, you can also use this machine without an internet connection.

The machine is well-suited for both novice crafters and advanced users. Its auto-sensing blade is mainly appreciated by professionals who automatically detect the thickness of materials and modifies blade depth.

Lastly, the machine is simple to use and allows you to craft and design custom decorative cards with ease. There are more than 200 hundred built-in designs, and if you want, you can add more via USB port or wireless connectivity.

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USCutter MH Vinyl Cutter Plotter Bundle

Why we like it:

Lifetime phone support.
Comes with a hobby knife.

Includes three Vinyl Cutter Roland Replacement Blades.

Pros	Cons
✅It comes with three adjustable pinch rollers.	❌Not compatible with MAC PCs/laptops.
✅Speed and pressure are adjustable.
✅Compact dimensions.

Here comes our last pick of the list, the USCutter MH 34&quot. This die-cutting machine is the best Cameo alternative if you want a machine to cut vinyl stuff. This 34-inch USCutter provides efficient and precise cutting and in no time. Furthermore, this machines can be an ideal Cameo alternative for small businesses as it is quite affordable than its counterpart. Not only this, but the unit is equally popular among the hobbyists.

Moreover, using this die cutting machine is effortless. You can comfortably place it on a floor for smooth access and simplicity of usage. However, it also depends on your preferences.

The machine comes with two pinch rollers that you can adjust. You can also change its speed and pressure when cutting a variety of materials. The machine features a dual-position carriage that allows you to cut through the standard vinyl efficiently.

Lastly, it is a high-quality vinyl die cut machine for crafters and the best vinyl cutting equipment for small businesses that have vinyl cutting needs.

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Final Words

So, here we are at the end of this “ top Cameo Alternatives Post.” All these are the top picks and perfect to use instead of Silhouette Cameo. In fact, some of these are much better than the Cameo in certain ways.

We agree that every die cutting machine has its pros and cons, but some cutting machines are more efficient than the others in all aspects.

Before finalizing your pick, do some research, analyze different brands and then make your final choice as per your exact needs.

So, regardless of your needs and preferences, if you were looking for the best Cameo alternative that works and cuts flawlessly, these are your safest bet.