I've had both the Joy and the Explore Air 2, and this combines the best aspects of each. The print then cut feature and the wider width are a massive step up from the Joy, but it's not so bulky as the Air and has the easier controls of the Joy. I think the only thing I might want on the Xtra that it doesn't have is the extra blades (Deep Cut and Bonded Fabric) or the scoring stylus. However, I feel like the pros outweigh the cons by miles.
I bought the Joy Xtra to replace my Joy. The rollers on my Joy are shot because I have used so often! I have got it working again too sort of. I have only cut a few pieces with my new Xtra it worked perfectly ! I am in process of working on 8 scrapbooks for my grandkids therefore it will be getting a workout !
Love being able to do larger cards and projects with the smaller size machine that I can carry to my campsite! Can see a lot of “Joy” using this machine!
The Cricut Xtra is a lovely machine. I appreciate its size and the fact that I can *finally* do Print and Cut! I am keeping my Cricut Joy for traveling to scrapbooking retreats. Out-of-the-gate, I easily setup my Xtra, ran through the setup procedures and cut 50 stickers for an event THAT DAY. The next day, I purchased the Insert Card holder, but have yet to use it. I'm just having too much fun with the other features.
I love that it takes 8.5 x 11. It takes most paper. I use it at work (a Pre-k) classroom My only wish is that I had the option of cutting construction paper.