The quality of your crafts and artwork depends on the cutting machines used to design and cut them. Silhouette being one of the most well-known brands, has various versions.

If you are keen, you should know more about the latest versions and their features. We want to compare Silhouette Cameo 2 vs. the Silhouette Cameo 3 to show any differences and similarities between them.

We will be comparing these two machines based on factors like:

• Software
• Cutting materials
• PixScan mat
• Design
• Wireless connectivity
• Portability

We will first analyze the Silhouette Cameo 2

Silhouette Cameo 2

Silhouette Cameo 2 has several features that make it different from the rest.

PixScan mat

Silhouette Cameo 2 has a Pixscan mat that helps put cut lines in a specific location of the material. It also ensures that your machine cuts around a printed design precisely.

Always make sure that the Cameo 2 you buy is compatible with Pixscan. It also digitalizes your stamp collection into matching cut files.

Studio software

This cutter has Studio software. Through the software, you can import files from other places besides the Silhouette store.

This software also makes it easy for you to buy from the Silhouette store.

Cross cutter

With Silhouette Cameo 2, you can cut materials fed directly from a roll. That’s possible because of the Silhouette cross cutter.

Wireless connectivity

When using the Silhouette Cameo 2, you don’t have to connect it to an internet connection or a computer. With the studio software, you can buy, import, or create your designs from scratch.

Through its scan and cut feature, it’s possible to print designs on your printer and cut them.

USB Port drive

You can read or cut files that you saved on your USB drive without connecting them to your computer.

Accessories

The Silhouette Cameo 2 comes with an electronic cutting tool, a cross cutter, a cutting mat of 12 x 12 inches, a cutting blade, studio software, a USB power cable, and a one-month essential subscription to the Silhouette Design store.

Design

Compared to other cutting machines, the Silhouette cameo two seems to have a more unique and advanced design. It is appealing and also lights in weight.

It comes with a removable cross cutter blade that you can use to cut rolls of excess paper and vinyl.

Maximum cutting capability

The Silhouette Cameo 2 has a powerful maximum cutting capacity. It can cut up to 12 inches wide and 10 inches long when you use a small blade.

There is a storage compartment on its side where you can store some tools to keep them safe.

Portability

The Silhouette Cameo 2 is moderate in size. It is about the size of a printer.

It comes with a removable cross cutter blade that you can use to cut excess paper and rolls of vinyl.

Print and cut feature

Print and cut feature is an essential element that the Cameo 2 has. You can use it to send videos to the Studio software.

Pros

• It gives you the freedom to choose designs and customize them
• It comes with cutting marks and a cutting blade
• Easy to carry around due to its lightweight
• Has wireless connectivity

Cons

• Its optic sensor is not easy to use

Silhou​​ette Cameo 3

You will love the Silhouette Cameo 3 just from the look of its box before opening it. This machine has been popular since its introduction.

It even became Cricut’s best-selling product.  While it has some similar features as that of Silhouette Cameo 2, it tends to be more advanced.

Let’s go through some of its features to find out its worth.

Design

The Cameo 3  is simple and white with a wider clearance than Cameo 2.

With such a size, it can cut through materials like polymer. You can easily make custom jewelry with it.

Wireless connectivity

You can send stuff from this machine to your mobile phone or other devices and vice versa. The presence of the Bluetooth feature makes this possible.

Dual carriage

If you love multitasking, you will be thrilled to use the Cameo 3 and save your time. It now has a two-tool option.

Through its dual carriage, it is easy to alternate between different tools automatically and save time. The dual carriage is excellent, especially if you would like to make invitations or decorations in large quantities.

With this feature, you don’t need to stop the machine to change from one tool to another. While you may need time to get used to this advancement, it’s a great update.

Print and cut feature

The Cameo 3 has a print and cut feature through which you can easily send videos to the Studio software. You need to master this feature so that you can easily do tasks like crafting sessions and scrapbooking.

PixScan technology

The PixScan technology in Silhouette Cameo  3 uses a cutting mat that has pre-printed marks. You need a copy of the latest Silhouette Studio software like V3 or higher to use this feature.

You can get the PixScan technology from the top toolbar.

Pros

• Has a dual carriage that makes it possible to draw and cut
• Bluetooth technology that enables wireless connectivity
• Is easy to use
• Auto-blade and a touch screen

Cons

• Its cutting force isn’t that great

Conclusion

While both the machines can give you excellent results, in our opinion, the Silhouette Cameo 3 wins.