Big shot or silhouette cameo?

I'm considering buying a die cut machine. I'm looking for a long-term economical option. I know cameo is more expensive than big shot but the shapes on the silhouette shop seem to be much cheaper than the traditional dies for big shot. I really need opinions and advises from those of you who have experience with either or both of them. What is the pros and cons and which one do you prefer?

If I could only have one, it would be the Cameo.
I like the cameo because of the wide range of images you and get and the sizing ability.
With the Big Shot, dies are expensive- but, you will get a good clean cut every time and can use thicker materials usually without issue. But you are limited to just that one size of the design. And again, the cost of each die can really add up.

It's really hard to say which would be better because we all have different scrapping wants and needs.
Good luck with your decision.

I think it's apples and oranges. Each has a strong suit as Trish pointed out.

My go to for most things is the Cameo, because of its versatility. The cuts are infinite both in shape and size, and you can even import cut files from other sites with their Designer software. Silhouette offers monthly plan options in various sizes that allow you to purchase cut files from their store at deep discounts, so you can build your library quickly.

The Big Shot is quick and easy, with lots of die choices. I use it a lot more than I thought after acquiring my Cameo, but the dies are expensive to collect, even if you catch them on sale.

My advice? If you can manage it, go for both.

I agree--apples & oranges...and go with the Cameo (or even the Portrait if that's better for your budget, but I always recommend the Cameo).

I have both and like them for their own reasons. I can cut any True Type Font on my Cameo along with the thousands of shapes & images from the Silhouette store and other places. It's great being able to print & cut countless images.

My Big Shot is quick and easy, if I have the right die or embossing folder that I need. I've been getting a lot of stamp sets with matching dies lately so that's nice too. But the dies are very pricey and the size never changes.

the two products are nothing a like.....

Big Shot uses dyes and embossing folders -set designs .

Cameo - is connected to computer and will cut shapes, titles etc that are generated through the computer. Doesn't do embossing folders

well I have both

I would say the cameo. I use it more and the dies are nice and if you want to you can make your own die. I just don't know yet how to. there lots of stuff you can do with the cameo.

the big shot you can take anywhere but the dies are a lot of money.

I just bought a big shot and plan to get a cameo to replace the circuit. They really are apples and oranges. I would also consider what is the main reason you are looking at die cutting machines. If its for alphabets and larger cuts (like an large layer or home decor) then the cameo is the hands down choice.
You are more limited to sizes with the big shot.

Thanks a lot for the reply! I think I'm gonna go with big shot, just because I like fast and simple. Maybe I'll consider a cameo down the road!

I think that is a great idea. I forgot to mention that I am loving my big shot and it does all the dies (sizzix,spellbinders etc.) nicely. It is so easy to create. I have fun with it.

I will be looking for a good deal on the cameo as we get near christmas.

Thanks for all your input! BTW, can cameo cut through chipboard (light/medium weight)?

I have checked with some of our Cameo experts in the office and they recommend cutting with only Silhouette chipboard. Anything else might ruin the machine. I've linked the product for you to check out.

Hi, Like the others have said, there are advantages and disadvantages to both the Silhouette Cameo and Sizzix Big Shot cutting machines. I came up with the following:
Cameo
- Initial Expense: approximately $350AU
- A little bit technical: need to have an understanding of designing using a computer
+ Long term cost: Purchasing individual designs/cut files is cheaper ALSO the ability to create a subscription based on what you can afford
+ Customization: Ability to resize and change designs/cut files OR if you are really clever you can MAKE YOUR OWN
+ Storage is digital: so you don’t have to worry about keeping accessories anywhere
+ Flexibility: The ability to work with many different materials outside of paper craft, e.g. vinyl, chipboard, stencils (for glass etching, fabric printing, etc.), magnetic paper, make your own stamps, sketching feature

Sizzix Big Shot and/or other Die cutting machines
- Long term cost: The need to purchase individual physical dies (it seems more expensive per a die, around $15-$30 per die
- Storage: Having to store the physical dies
- Flexibility: As far as I am aware this is mostly for paper based materials
+ Cheaper initial cost: around $99-$149.99 AU
+ No need for technological skills - nor are you reliant on software upgrades

Lots of great info & advice here! I don't have a Cameo but I do have a Cricut Expression and a Big Shot. I honestly never thought I wanted a BS because I loved my Expression. However, once I got the BS, I use it 9 times out of 10 over the Expression. I have however been making more cards and smaller scale things rather than scrapbooking lately so that might be a factor. I use a lot of embossing folders and stamps with coordinating framelits with my Big Shot. While it is true that dies can be expensive, I tend to use them more. Cartridges for my Expression were just as expensive, if not more. I know a lot of things have changed since I got my Expression...such as the new machines and being able to get certain images without buying a whole cartridge. I know size versatility is another plus with an electronic machine, but I find that isn't really a big deal with the BS.

I am also in the market for a die cutting maching. Great advice - Thank you.
I think I have decided on The Big Shot - due to the flexibility and not having to have technical skills. I actually prefer to keep physical copies, stamps, dies - as a Realtor I guess that is built into me.

Maybe when I learn what I am doing as far as scrapbooking I will graduate to a Cameo.
Thanks for the great advice!!

They are apples and oranges....

Both!  Actually, you're better off with a Cricut and a Cuttlebug.  Don't get me started on Sizzix right now.

(I am not  sb.com staff)
Sb.com has a nice bundle of the Big Shot on sale. I tried linking it here but must have done something wrong.
It took me forever to learn how to use my Silhouette cameo. If you are young and were brought up with computers you probably will be able to figure it out quicker than I did. .......and You Tube went too fast for me..................hey that's a thought.............You Tube how to use the Cameo, that might help you decide.