Cricut Explore Air vs Air 2 – What Is the Difference?

Die-cut machines are getting more popular among users since everyone wants to customize their own party or house. Besides, more and more people try to make gifts by themselves so it can help recall warm memories. So once you decide to commit yourself to art, you may want to have one of the best-selling devices such as Cricut Explore Air and Air 2. However, what’s the difference between them? Come on, let’s take a closer look!

Compare Cricut Explore Air Vs Air 2

Before you dive into precise testing of both devices, you are invited to check the quick notes about Air and Air 2. They are all collected in the table for easier comparing and later analyzing their features:

	Explore Air	Explore Air 2
Review
Available Colors	White/blue	Blue, Cherry Blossom, Lilac, Matte Black, Mint, Rose Twilight, Raspberry, Boysenberry, Cobalt, Fuchsia, Merlot, Peacock, Persimmon, Sunflower, Pistachio, Peach Kiss, Denim, Blush, Periwinkle, Coral, Candy Apple, Blue, Sky
Dimensions	25.4 x 10 x 9.2	24 x 9.5 x 9.5
Weight	14 lbs	14 lbs
Technology	Cut Smart	Cut Smart 2
Connectivity	Bluetooth, USB	Bluetooth, USB
Max Cutting Size	11.5 x 23.5 inches	11.5 x 23.5 inches
Fast mode	No	Yes
Price

Key Features of Cricut Explore Air Wireless Cutting Machine

The Cricut Explore is available only in one color solution – white with blue parts. The machine itself is quite small, but this is rather an advantage since it can fit any working space. Besides, it is designed to trifles, there is even a storage compartment for stationery items in it.

As for its operation, it’s quiet enough not to wake up a child, and it’s really simple to use. In fact, there is an informative dial that adjusts the device’s settings to the most appropriate ones according to the type of materials you are working with. Besides, there is a switch on/off button and three more buttons that control processing the project and connect the cutting machine to your smart device.

In fact, manufacturing Cricut Explore Air, the company thought that this machine should be less messy yet more efficient. In particular, Explore Air is a model that comes with the USB cord and the power one. Instead of it, there is a Bluetooth module that allows it to connect to mobile or computer device wirelessly.

Here are the key features of Cricut Explore Air:

These features are pretty convenient in terms of usability, especially if you constantly deal with numerous projects that require not cutting but drawing with high precision. In addition, you can create whatever you want on any surface. Isn’t it cool?

Key Features of Cricut Explore Air 2 Mint DIY Cutting Machine

Those who are already familiar with the previous version will definitely like Explore Air 2. The machine’s dimensions are quite compact, so it fits even on the smallest table. Besides, a special built-in compartment allows your auxiliary tools to be in order and never to lose them. As for the inner part, it’s hidden under the 2 lids that are opened by the “open” button.

The operation of the machine is controlled by the connected smartphone or laptop, but the place of your project can be adjusted by special buttons that are near the dial. The same concerns switching the device on and off, that button is also there.

The dial deserves special attention since it’s responsible for selecting the type of material you work with. And, by the way, the machine is capable of working with more than 100 materials.

Here are the highlights of Explore Air 2:

If our major demand for such a machine is speed, then Explore Air 2 is the most appropriate solution ever. It works fast and produces high-precision details.

So, What Is the Difference Between These Models?

However, the main purpose of this article is to show the testing of Cricut Explore Air vs Air 2.

The first difference between these two, seemingly, the same models is their appearance. In fact, Air 2 is available in a few color options so any user can select anyone they like. Besides, there is a gold or silver horizontal stripe across the bottom part of the product. Meanwhile, the Air model is available only in one color solution, a combination of white and blue.

The second difference is that the Air 2 is an updated version of Air, so it has the same functions but with extended features. In particular, instead of Cut Smart precision, there is Cut Smart 2 technology that ensures that your projects will be with even edges without any signs of damage. Besides, this update is really useful in terms of how long to cut and what quality there will be during 2X fast mode in Air 2 is on. So, there is one more update, accelerated speed of processing the project.

The next difference is their operation, not the quality, but the sound. In fact, the Air is quieter than Air 2. However, the thing is that noise appears only when the fast mode is on, and it’s absent during the regular mode.

On a separate note, cutting and writing on various types may differ as well. In particular, there can be wider strokes and less precise cutting made by Air on paper, while Air 2 provides thinner lines and more precise edges.

Is the Cricut Explore Air vs Air 2 Right for You?

Hopefully, this review has shed light on the most intricating topic: the difference between Cricut Explore Air and Air 2. However, based on numerous users’ reviews, here are some hints that will help you to choose the right Cricut machine.

If you want not to depend on the place, value quiet still easy to understand the operation, then it’s better to deal with Explore Air. However, if you prefer to have more precise details and time matters, then Explore Air 2 will be more appropriate for you.

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