If you are in the market for a die cut machine, you may find yourself wondering whether to buy the Provo Craft Cricut or the Making Memories Slice. Here is a feature by feature comparison to help you narrow down your choices.

Portability
When it comes to portability, the Slice wins. Smaller than a five inch square and weighing less than two pounds, it can also be used cord free.

Versatility
The Cricut easily wins the versatility category. First, it can make die cuts in a wider range of sizes. For example, Provo Craft's premium die cut machine, the Expression, has the capability to make cutouts ranging in size from a 1/4 inch to 23 1/2 inches, in quarter inch increments, as opposed to the Slice, which makes cutouts from one inch to four inches in size, in half inch increments.

The Provo Craft model also has a larger selection of cartridges available, and even includes licensed designs, such as Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Sesame Street, Hello Kitty, and even Hannah Montana. These cartridges also include creative features, which can be used to further embellish the die cuts - for example, by cutting layered pieces, shadow accents, and blackout backgrounds.

Price
The Cricut's versatility comes with a hefty price tag. The machines, cartridges, and most of the accessories cost more than comparable items for the Slice. For example, Provo Craft's three die cut machine models range in price from $300 to $500 and cartridges cost anywhere from $50 to $100, as opposed to Making Memories' digital design cutter, which costs $150 for the starter kit and with design cards priced at approximately $35.

Ease of Use
This ones is a toss up, with both brands offering intuitive buttons and menus. Some users prefer the Cricut's paperfed method for making cutouts, while others like the Slice's place and cut abilities.

In summary, the Making Memories Slice is great for scrapbookers who are looking for an inexpensive way to highlight their paper crafts with handmade die cuts. It also may be best for someone with limited storage room for storing craft supplies, as well as for those who like to attend crops and other community style scrapbooking events.

The Provo Craft Cricut, on the other hand, may be better suited for those wanting more than a basic die cutter, with its versatile creative features and range of die cutting sizes. However, prospective owners should be prepared to not only find a suitable place in their scrapbooking area for storing this larger machine, but to also spend more money for growing their cartridge and accessories library.

Which machine is best? As you can see, it is really hard to say, because what may be right for one person may not be the best for another. The Making Memories Slice vs. the Provo Craft Cricut - two great machines, one difficult choice.