LOVE this machine!!! I have been using Cricut since the cartridge days. All of my machines have been GREAT. I love the speed of this one, however. It is so much faster than any of the other ones I've used. The Maker 4 replaces my Maker which still works but not nearly as fast. Its hard to use two machines at one time the Maker 4 going.
I have had a Maker for a few years, I totally loved it. Recently a friend had some serious health issues and became depressed. I started having a Cricut date with her once a week. She fell in love and I sent my Maker home with her to keep her busy. Enter the Maker 4, it is much quieter and faster. Cuts are so easy!
I have a joy-xtra that I really love. I just got the Maker 4 and it is a step up.. I will still use the smaller Xtra but, I can now cut larger items and the score and debossing abilities are fun to play with.
I was gifted a used Explore One to try out and got absolutely hooked to all the things I could make with it. However I wanted to work with longer and thicker materials, so I decided to take the plunge and get the Maker 4. I'm so excited for all the possibilities of projects that I can do. I've already actually made a few small projects for friends & family as well, so it's gotten a decent amount of use. I had been wanting a Cricut for over 10 years since I also scrapbook, but couldn't really justify the cost - but I wish I had bought one so much sooner. Fussy cutting is such a waste of time when you can get it done professionally in like 2 minutes. Not to mention ALL THE MATERIALS!!!! I recently tried out the pen feature and am considering using it to address all my holiday card envelopes!
The Maker 4 is everything you'd expect. It works quickly and accurately, making projects take less time. The variety of materials that can be cut, debossed, engraved are only the starting point for new ideas. Upgrading to the Maker 4 has been great choice.