Help selecting die cutting machine

Nov '22 KellyLeigh

Hi, I am hoping someone will give me some suggestions on die cutting machines
I used to scrapbook for many years in the early 2000's. I had the (original?) red Sizzix and later had the first and second Circuit machines. This was when they took cartridges only, which was super-fancy at the time.
Fast forward to now...
I had a baby almost a year ago and am jumping back into scrapbooking (Yay!) and I want a die cutting machine mainly to help with layout titles and I am completely overwhelmed by the current options.
Does anyone have any recommendations on a good die cutter for making layout titles and other smaller things? I do not like the idea of having to use a computer program but would maybe consider it IF it didn't have a monthly subscription cost (like something you could buy one time? Like cartridges? If this even still exists?).
Any suggestions are very much appreciated!
Nov '22 Eapipkin

Sizzix Switch is a cool machine that is electric. It cuts dies and also does embossing. I got mine for $200.00 through Hobby Lobby.
Nov '22 Dawna.s Place

If you don't mind buying the dies for a die cutting machine, the Sizzix Big Shot Express (Not the professional version) is a good bet. It's electronic, so you don't have to hand crank like the Sizzix Big Shot. These run about $160. If you're looking for something economical too, the Sizzix Big Shot (manual crank) is also a good bet. They typically run around $75.00.

If you're not too sure about investing in dies as well as a cutting platform, the Cricut Explore Air 2 is a fabulous option. This is not Cricut's latest model (don't waste your money on the latest model, they stink! Bad reviews everywhere!), but it's by far there BEST! You can find them gently used on FB Marketplace or other FB scrappy sites. You should be able to find one for around $100-$150. Before you consider this machine, go to Cricut's online software at design.cricut.com and check out the software for free. It's a little confusing to start, but once you get acquainted with it, you will be able to size your fonts, select from tons of font styles and cut anything else you'd like to cut. The possibilities are exceptionally robust with this choice. The typical cost of a font is .99 cents each without a monthly subscription. You'll have unlimited access to the font's you purchase, so you can reuse them till your hearts content.

I hope you found this information helpful. Wishing you the best on your scrapbooking journey!
Nov '22 PKfromPA

I have a Criuit Explore Air 2 & I like it. I had the original cricut, so this was an upgrade. There are a lot of videos on how to do things online (by Circuit & others). With this cricut, you can still upload your cricut cartridges, too. I don't subscribe monthly. I only buy if I want a particular image. You do use Circuit Design Space to design what you want to make/print/cut. Enjoy what ever you choose.