auntmimi
Full Member
Posts: 471
Jun 22, 2018 18:55:37 GMT
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Post by auntmimi on Oct 26, 2022 14:29:34 GMT
I've had a Silhouette Cameo since 2013. Although I don't use it often and it still technically runs, I'd looing to upgrade to something better. I'd like to stick with Silhouette since I'm familiar with the software and have an extensive library, but I could be persuaded to switch to Cricut if Silhouette has issues I don't know about since I'm kind of out of the loop. I use it primarily for diecutting shapes and titles for scrapbooking, some HTV for my DD's Girl Scout troop, and some vinyl for home decor items (walls, containers, etc).
Would you recommend the Cameo 4? A different machine?
Are there any rumors about new machines coming out for the holidays and I should hold off?
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breetheflea
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,007 
Location: PNW
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Post by breetheflea on Oct 26, 2022 15:30:54 GMT
I upgraded my Portrait (circa 2013) when even DH (computer expert) couldn't get the software to update, in 2021. I can't say there's anything different about the Cameo 3 except it's wireless. I mean it still has cords but it doesn't have to be inches away from the computer anymore which is a plus because the cord on my old one was super short.
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Post by hockeyfan06 on Oct 26, 2022 16:37:47 GMT
I have the Portrait 3 and the Silhouette "GO" app. I really like this combo because I can send a wireless "cut" from my iPhone to the machine. It's compact and easy to use (App & machine).
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scrappymeg
Full Member
Posts: 293
Sept 18, 2020 22:59:35 GMT
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Post by scrappymeg on Oct 26, 2022 16:49:09 GMT
Occasionally there are hiccups with Silhouette software updates, but they are usually pretty good at resolving them. Since you are already have a large library of files, there's really no reason to switch brands.
Some people have complained that with the Cameo 4 the pre-set cut settings need to be adjusted for certain materials, but if you do a test cut you can really eliminate a lot of frustration. I love the Portrait 3, but if you need the extra cutting width of the Cameo 4, I think that's a good option.
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Post by Neisey on Oct 26, 2022 19:10:10 GMT
What new and exciting things do you want your new machine to do?
I have the OG Cameo and so far have not seen a feature on the new models that I absolutely have to have so I’m happy with the machine I understand But if it breaks… I’ll be immediately ordering a new model.
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GiantsFan
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,309
Site Supporter
Jun 27, 2014 14:44:56 GMT
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Post by GiantsFan on Oct 26, 2022 20:50:51 GMT
I upgraded from Portrait 1 to the Portrait 3 (I like the smaller size). Three things I like about it -> The Autoblade, bluetooth connection and it actually cuts! (P1 was having major problems and just randomly slicing through the paper and that was if it even connected to my laptop)
If you don't use it all that much and don't need 12x12 or 12zx24 then look into the Portrait 3.
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Post by mbanda on Oct 27, 2022 15:25:52 GMT
I still have the original Cameo but my friend has the 3 or 4 and I like that it is wireless. It also has the dual carriage double blade which is pretty cool. She uses hers for a lot of vinyl projects.
I've thought about upgrading but my original one still works and I feel I don't use it often enough to justify getting a new one (but maybe I would if it was wireless and I could work from my ipad or iphone....)
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scrapnnana
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,199
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Post by scrapnnana on Oct 28, 2022 1:26:53 GMT
I had the original Cameo. I also have a Cricut Explore Air 2. When a Microsoft update made my machine incompatible (although Silhouette did eventually work out a fix), I debated just using my Cricut Explore, but I missed my Cameo too much, so I got the Cameo 3. I love it! I don’t know if it is still available. The Cameo 4 was more expensive ($100), and I didn’t think I would use the extra capabilities. Now I think I might have liked them, but I am content with my Cameo 3. The software is so much better IMO than Cricut’s.
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Post by coloradocropper on Oct 28, 2022 3:42:45 GMT
What new and exciting things do you want your new machine to do? I have the OG Cameo and so far have not seen a feature on the new models that I absolutely have to have so I’m happy with the machine I understand But if it breaks… I’ll be immediately ordering a new model. Ditto! |
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Post by riversong1963 on Oct 28, 2022 11:41:41 GMT
Although I love my Portrait 2 for cutting out stamped images and some designs, I use my Cricut Maker more. I think it's easier to learn and use, and it cuts many more materials than the Silhouette machines.
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scrapnnana
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,199
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Post by scrapnnana on Oct 29, 2022 17:38:18 GMT
Although I love my Portrait 2 for cutting out stamped images and some designs, I use my Cricut Maker more. I think it's easier to learn and use, and it cuts many more materials than the Silhouette machines. I bought the Explore to cut thin leather, but I have found that my Cameo 3 cuts it, as well as craft foam, and other materials that the Cameo supposedly doesn’t cut. Since the OP is already used to the Silhouette software, using the Cricut software would be a come down. Cricut software is better for newbies who want something very simple and easy, but for anyone used to using Silhouette software, especially if they are adept at creating their own cutting files, the Cricut software can be a disappointment. The Silhouette software does so much more than Cricut software does. The Cricut cuts better detailed images than Silhouette, but the difference is not usually that huge unless your image is smaller and has very fine detail. If you need that extra bit of fine cutting, though, for a very intricate doily, Cricut machines do the better job. |
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Post by elegantsufficiency on Oct 29, 2022 18:56:33 GMT
About this time last year we were in a Berlin shopping centre on the day when a new Cricut store was opening. We were both invited to take a look inside and showered with attention and a few freebies, even though I admitted immediately to being a Silhouette girl. The saleswoman focused on showing me the tricks she felt the newest Cricut did better than my Silhouette and I was quite surprised that actually, I disagreed...I felt my Silhouette was more versatile and as others have said, the software is much better. Had I been a new user with no digital cutting experience at all, perhaps the Cricut would have been a simpler introduction, but with some knowledge and experience, I'd say there's no doubt which I would rather use - and the reason why I feel slightly shamefaced carrying a Cricut shopping bag! (one of the freebies!)
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