Cricut Explore 5 vs. Siser Romeo: Choosing the Right Smart Cutting Machine (2026)

More than once, Leonardo triggered a generic error message pop-up without any explanation of how to fix the problem. You’re forced to dismiss the message before doing anything else, which feels like hitting a dead end before trying to troubleshoot yourself or looking up the error code in Leonardo.

Fortunately, the connection is very simple and smooth. The Romeo connects to your computer via Wi-Fi rather than Bluetooth, which seems like a minor detail until you wrestle with the quirks that Bluetooth can sometimes pose (looking at you, Design Space). While I was testing the Explore 5, I would occasionally lose my Bluetooth connection, requiring me to disconnect the device from my computer, reconnect, and try again. I’m not sure if this is a build space issue or my laptop handling too many Bluetooth devices, but it could be a headache. In my testing, I’ve never had my Romeo disconnect unexpectedly.

Space making

There’s no one to go around: Romeo is big-It has twice the cutting width of the Explore 5. It’s not the type of machine that can easily fit on a closet shelf when you’re not using it. Most people will want to dedicate a table to it. This isn’t necessarily a downside, but it’s meant to be a permanent fixture in your workspace. (And remember to take into account the free space behind the machine, as the material is fed through the back!). But it is sturdy and well built. It never moved on the table while cutting, there was very little vibration, the cart moved smoothly with no rattles, and there was no flexing or squeaking.

Its open design is another trade-off. Unlike the Explore 5, which folds, everything remains exposed on the Romeo. I haven’t noticed any buildup yet, but I’m concerned about pet hair and dust getting into the interior, something I’ll be monitoring over time.

When it goes out, the Romeo beeps and buzzes like an Internet dial-up, while the Cricut beeps and buzzes like an old-fashioned inkjet printer. It’s not particularly loud, but it’s worth noting if you share a workspace.

Graduation time?

Photo: Nicole Kenning

After spending some time with both machines, the most important thing I’ve learned is that the Cricut is designed to eliminate as many decisions and friction points as possible. Romeo hands you the controls and expects you to learn how to use them.