8 Best Laptops for Cricut Under $500 in 2023 (Tested and Reviewed)

Last Updated on September 24, 2023 by Arif Chowdhury

If you’re someone who loves making things with your hands, you might already know about Cricut. It’s like a special machine that can cut all sorts of stuff like paper, vinyl, fabric, and even leather. With a Cricut, you can make your cards, stickers, cool designs for t-shirts, quilts, and tons of other cool stuff!

But to make your Cricut work its best, you need a laptop that can help you design and edit things. This laptop needs to run a program called Cricut Design Space. It’s like an online place where you can find lots of pictures and fonts to use, or you can put in your ideas. Your laptop also has to be able to connect to your Cricut machine, either with a special wire or through Bluetooth.

Now, you might think that a good laptop for Cricut could cost a lot, but that’s not true. There are plenty of laptops that can do the job and they won’t cost you a ton of money. In this article, we’re going to help you find the best laptop for using Cricut, and all of them are under $500 in 2023. We’re going to talk about 8 different laptops that have some important things:

• Power: These laptops can run the Cricut Design Space program well. They won’t get slow or crash when you’re using it. To do this, the laptop needs to have a good brain (that’s the processor), enough memory, and space to store things.
• Screen: The laptop’s screen should be clear and show all the colors and details of your designs. A really good screen can make your designs look even better. It needs to have sharp and clear pictures, and you should be able to see them from different sides without any problems.
• Battery Life: Nobody wants a laptop that dies quickly! These laptops can work for a long time without needing to be plugged into a power outlet. That’s handy when you’re in the middle of creating something cool.
• Easy to Carry: The laptop shouldn’t be super heavy or big. It’s nice when you can easily carry it around to different places. A good laptop for Cricut should be light, not too huge, and tough enough to handle a bit of moving around.
• Works Well with Cricut: Of course, the laptop needs to get along with your Cricut machine. It should be able to connect to it without any trouble. That means it needs to have the right plugs and ways to connect without any issues.

So, now that we’ve talked about all these important things, let’s get into the exciting part. We’re going to tell you about the 8 best laptops for using Cricut that are all under $500 in the year 2023.

1. Acer Aspire 5

• Affordable: Provides great value for its cost.
• Large Display: 15.6-inch wide screen for an immersive viewing experience.
• Clear Visuals: Offers high-quality picture display.
• AMD Ryzen 3 Processor: Powerful processor capable of multitasking.
• 4 GB Memory: Enables fast and efficient task execution.
• 128 GB Storage: Provides ample space for storing files and projects.
• Suitable for Basic Cricut Projects: Adequate storage for Cricut design files and basic crafting projects.

The Acer Aspire 5 is one of the excellent laptops for Cricut under $500 that doesn’t compromise on quality. It offers a lot of good features without breaking the bank. It has a big, clear 15.6-inch wide screen that displays nice pictures, making it ideal for various crafting projects.

Inside, it boasts the power of an AMD Ryzen 3 processor, which serves as its brain, capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously. With 4 GB of memory, this laptop can think quickly and efficiently, while its 128 GB of storage provides ample space to keep all your necessary files and materials for your Cricut projects.

Cool things about it:

• It doesn’t cost a ton of money.
• The screen is big and the pictures look super clear.
• It can work on things fast.
• It has some special features like a backlit keyboard (keys that light up), a fingerprint reader (to keep things secure), and a webcam (like a camera for your computer).

But there are some things to think about too:

• The memory (the computer’s quick thinking) and storage (where it keeps stuff) aren’t super big.
• The computer is a bit heavy and big, so it might not be easy to carry around.
• It doesn’t stay on for a long time without needing to be charged up.

So, the Acer Aspire 5 has good things and not-so-good things, just like everything else. It’s a nice option if you want something that works well without spending too much money.

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2. HP Pavilion x360

• 2-in-1 Design: Functions as both a traditional laptop and a tablet with a flexible 360-degree hinge.
• Touchscreen Display: 14-inch touchscreen for intuitive interaction, similar to using a phone or tablet.
• Tablet Mode: The screen can be flipped and used as a tablet for more versatile usage.
• Stylus Support: Supports pen input, allowing for precise and creative tasks.
• Intel Core i3 Processor: Capable processor, ideal for running software like Cricut Design Space smoothly.
• 8 GB Memory: Sufficient RAM for efficient multitasking and program performance.
• 256 GB Storage: Offers ample space for storing various Cricut projects and files.

If you’re searching for laptops for Cricut under $500, the HP Pavilion x360 stands out as a special option with versatile capabilities. This laptop offers a dual nature – it can function as a traditional laptop, and with its screen that measures 14 inches, it can also transform into a tablet for a more interactive experience.

The touchscreen feature, akin to that of a phone, allows you to carry out tasks with intuitive gestures, and you can even employ a pen for added precision. Powering this laptop is an Intel Core i3 processor, which ensures optimal performance for running the Cricut Design Space program seamlessly.

With 8 GB of memory, serving as the computer’s brain, and 256 GB of storage for housing your files and resources, this laptop provides ample space for most Cricut projects, making it a fantastic choice for budget-conscious crafters.

The cool stuff about it:

• It can be a laptop or a tablet, so you can choose how you want to use it.
• The screen can sense your touch and you can draw on it with a pen.
• It can handle lots of things at once because it has enough memory and storage.
• The battery can last for a long time.

But there are some things to think about too:

• It costs quite a bit of money.
• The screen might not look super bright and it might show reflections.
• The fan inside can make some noise sometimes.

So, the HP Pavilion x360 has good things and not-so-good things, just like anything else. If you want a special laptop that can turn into a tablet and you’re okay with spending more money, this could be a good choice.

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3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3i

• 15.6-inch Full HD Display: Expansive and high-resolution screen for clear and detailed visuals.
• Intel Core i5 Processor: Powerful processor capable of handling intricate Cricut projects and multitasking.
• 8 GB RAM: Ample memory for smooth multitasking and running resource-intensive applications.
• 256 GB SSD Storage: Fast and spacious storage for storing files, projects, and applications.
• Numeric Keypad: Convenient numeric keypad for efficient data entry.
• Webcam Shutter: Privacy feature that ensures your webcam is securely covered when not in use.
• Dolby Audio Speakers: Provides high-quality audio for an enhanced auditory experience.

Introducing the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i – an impressive laptop ready to tackle even the most intricate Cricut projects with ease. With its expansive 15.6-inch full HD display, you’ll experience visuals that are not only crystal clear but also incredibly detailed. The beating heart of this laptop is powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, allowing you to smoothly juggle multiple programs simultaneously. Whether you’re working on sizeable, intricate designs or resource-hungry applications, the 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of SSD storage provide the perfect support.

The laptop also boasts convenient features like a numeric keypad for efficient data entry, a webcam shutter to ensure your privacy, and Dolby Audio speakers for a superior auditory experience.

Highlights:

• Impressive processing power
• Crystal-clear, high-resolution display
• Abundant memory and spacious storage capacity
• Enhanced privacy and sound attributes

Points to Consider:

• Relatively higher price point
• Sturdily built, yet a bit heavy and bulky in design
• Average battery lifespan

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4. Apple MacBook Air M1

• Superior Performance: Powered by the Apple M1 chip for exceptional speed and efficiency.
• 13.3-inch Retina Display: Clear and vibrant screen that showcases colors beautifully.
• Optimized for Cricut Design Space: Capable of running resource-intensive applications smoothly.
• Compact and Portable: Not too big, making it easy to carry and work on the go.
• 8 GB RAM: Sufficient memory for multitasking and smooth application performance.
• 256 GB Storage: Spacious storage for storing a variety of Cricut projects and files.
• Backlit Keyboard: Illuminated keyboard for convenient use even in low light conditions.
• Touch ID: Fingerprint sensor for secure and quick authentication.
• Camera: Built-in camera for video calls and capturing pictures.
• Sleek Design: Apple’s signature sleek and stylish design.

While most laptops for Cricut under $500 offer great value, the Apple MacBook Air M1 stands out as a super cool and blazingly fast option, even though it might exceed the typical budget. This laptop is an excellent choice for utilizing the Cricut Design Space program efficiently.

With a sleek and compact design, its 13.3-inch screen boasts remarkable clarity that beautifully displays colors. Inside, the Apple M1 chip takes center stage, providing unparalleled smoothness and speed – it’s like a computer superpower!

With 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, this laptop offers a spacious “drawer” for organizing all your Cricut projects. Beyond that, it boasts a backlit keyboard that’s convenient for dark environments, a cutting-edge fingerprint sensor known as Touch ID for enhanced security, and a built-in camera for seamless video chats and capturing memories.

While the MacBook Air M1 may stretch the budget beyond $500, its impressive features and performance make it a notable contender for those seeking top-tier experiences with the Cricut Design Space program.

Good stuff about this laptop:

• It looks nice and fancy.
• The screen is so clear and colorful.
• It works fast and doesn’t get tired easily.
• The battery lasts for a long time, so you can use it for a while.

Things that might not be so great:

• It’s a bit expensive like a cool gadget usually is.
• It doesn’t have a lot of plug-in spots for things.
• Sometimes, it might not work perfectly with certain programs that are made for a different type of computer.

But all in all, if you want a powerful and stylish laptop for doing creative projects like Cricut, the Apple MacBook Air M1 could be a really good choice!

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5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

• 2-in-1 Design: Functions as both a laptop and a tablet for versatile usage.
• Touchscreen Display: Interactive screen for touch input and pen-based drawing.
• Pen Input Support: Compatible with a special pen for precise drawing and note-taking.
• Intel Core i5 Processor: Powerful processor for running software like Cricut Design Space.
• 8 GB Memory: Ample RAM for smooth multitasking and software performance.
• 128 GB Storage: Sufficient storage for storing simple art projects and files.
• Adjustable Stand: Built-in stand for positioning the device at different angles.
• Detachable Keyboard: The keyboard can be removed for a more tablet-like experience.
• Stylus/Pen Included: Comes with a special pen for drawing and note-taking.
• Portable and Lightweight: Easy to carry and use on the go.

When exploring laptops for Cricut under $500, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 emerges as a unique and versatile option. It effortlessly transitions between being a laptop and a tablet, making it perfect for creative endeavors.

The interactive screen is touch-sensitive and allows for drawing with a dedicated pen. The intelligent Intel Core i5 processor powers this device, making it well-suited for running artistic software like Cricut Design Space. With 8 GB of memory and 128 GB of storage, it provides ample resources for simpler art projects.

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9’s flexibility is further enhanced by its stand and detachable keyboard, providing various usage modes. The inclusion of the special pen adds an extra layer of creativity to your projects. Within the constraints of a $500 budget, the Surface Pro 9 offers a compelling package for those seeking a versatile computing device that accommodates Cricut-related tasks and more.

Good things about it:

• You can carry it around easily.
• You can touch the screen and use the pen.
• It’s fast thanks to its good brain.
• The battery lasts a long time.

Not-so-good things about it:

• It costs a lot of money.
• The screen is small and not very sharp.
• It doesn’t have a lot of space to store stuff.

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6. Dell XPS 15

• Premium Design: High-quality build and materials for a premium look and feel.
• 15.6-inch OLED Display: Stunning OLED screen with vibrant and captivating colors.
• Intel Core i7 Processor: Powerful processor for handling demanding tasks, including complex Cricut projects.
• 16 GB RAM: Abundant memory for smooth multitasking and handling resource-intensive applications.
• 512 GB SSD Storage: Spacious and fast storage for managing extensive and intricate designs.
• Backlit Keyboard: Illuminated keyboard for comfortable typing in various lighting conditions.
• Fingerprint Reader: Secure and quick authentication with a built-in fingerprint reader.
• Built-in Webcam: Integrated webcam for video conferencing and capturing pictures.
• Immersive Experience: High-quality display and performance for an immersive computing experience.

The Dell XPS 15 stands as a premium laptop, offering an incredible and immersive experience across its features. Its 15.6-inch OLED display stands out, delivering vibrant and dazzling colors that captivate the eye. Fueling its performance is an Intel Core i7 processor, effortlessly handling various tasks including complex Cricut projects.

Boasting 16 GB of RAM and a spacious 512 GB SSD storage, it becomes an ideal choice for managing extensive and intricate designs. Moreover, the laptop includes a backlit keyboard, a fingerprint reader, and a built-in webcam for added convenience.

Pros:

• Striking and vivid display
• Robust processor performance
• Generous memory and ample storage capacity
• Enhanced security and user-friendly features

Cons:

• Relatively steep price point
• Notably heavy and bulky in design
• Limited battery life

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7. Asus ZenBook Duo 14 UX482

• Dual-Screen Design: Innovative dual-screen setup with a 14-inch primary display and a 12.6-inch secondary touchscreen.
• Ample Multitasking Space: Dual screens provide ample room for multitasking and creative work.
• Intel Core i5 Processor: Capable processor for smooth operation of Cricut Design Space and other tasks.
• 8 GB RAM: Sufficient memory for multitasking and running design software smoothly.
• 256 GB SSD Storage: Fast and spacious SSD storage for storing a variety of Cricut projects.
• Backlit Keyboard: Keyboard with backlight for comfortable typing in different lighting conditions.
• Stylus Pen Included: Comes with a stylus pen for precise drawing and interaction on the secondary touchscreen.
• Integrated Webcam: Built-in webcam for video conferencing and capturing images.
• Enhanced Creative Potential: Dual-screen design enhances creative workspace and productivity.

Introducing the Asus ZenBook Duo 14 UX482, an innovative dual-screen laptop that fits perfectly within the category of laptops for Cricut under $500. Designed to expand your workspace and unleash your creative potential, this laptop features a primary 14-inch display alongside a secondary 12.6-inch touchscreen. This dual-screen setup opens doors for multitasking and enhancing your design capabilities.

Driving this cutting-edge experience is an Intel Core i5 processor, delivering the power needed for the seamless operation of the Cricut Design Space software. With 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of SSD storage, the laptop strikes a harmonious balance, catering to a wide range of Cricut projects.

Complementing these specifications, you’ll find a convenient backlit keyboard, a stylus pen for precise input, and a built-in webcam for video chats and more. The Asus ZenBook Duo 14 UX482 proves to be an exciting choice for creative individuals seeking an affordable laptop that caters to their crafting needs.

Pros:

• Unconventional and innovative design
• Dual-screen functionality for expanded workspace
• Capable processor performance
• Impressive battery life

Cons:

• Elevated price point
• Diminished screen dimensions with reduced brightness
• Audibly noticeable fan noise

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8. Samsung Galaxy Book 2

• 2-in-1 Design: Easily transforms between a tablet and a laptop for versatile usage.
• 12-inch AMOLED Touchscreen: High-quality AMOLED display with vibrant and lifelike colors.
• LTE Connectivity: Allows internet access from virtually anywhere with cellular connectivity.
• Compact and Lightweight: Portable design for easy carrying and use on the go.
• 4 GB RAM: Suitable for handling essential tasks and Cricut projects.
• 128 GB SSD Storage: Storage space for storing files and projects.
• Detachable Keyboard: The keyboard can be detached for a tablet-like experience.
• Stylus Pen Included: Comes with a stylus pen for precise input and interaction.
• Built-in Webcam: Integrated webcam for video calls and capturing images.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Adaptable design and features for enhanced convenience.

The Samsung Galaxy Book 2 stands out as a remarkably lightweight and adaptable laptop that seamlessly transforms between a tablet and a laptop. Its compact design hosts a striking 12-inch AMOLED touchscreen, boasting an exceptional presentation of vibrant and lifelike colors. Notably, the laptop comes equipped with LTE connectivity, a feature that grants you the freedom to access the internet from virtually anywhere.

Under the hood, it packs a punch with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of SSD storage. While these specs are well-suited for tackling essential Cricut projects, resource-intensive tasks might stretch its capabilities. The added convenience of a detachable keyboard, stylus pen, and webcam enhances its overall appeal.

Pros:

• Portable and flexible design
• Amazing display
• LTE connectivity
• Long battery life

Cons:

• Low price
• Low memory and storage capacity
• Slow processor

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best device to use with a Cricut?

Choosing the right device for your Cricut work isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Different devices come with different pros and cons. Here are some important things to think about:

1. Performance: You want a device that runs Cricut Design Space software smoothly. Look for decent processor power, memory, and storage.
2. Display: A clear, bright screen matters to see your designs’ colors and details. A high-resolution display with good viewing angles and contrast is essential.
3. Battery Life: Your device should last several hours without needing a plug. A long-lasting battery is a must to support your creative sessions.
4. Portability: If you need to use your Cricut anywhere, choose a lightweight, compact, and durable device.
5. Compatibility: Make sure the device can connect to your Cricut machine without a hitch. Check for the right ports and wireless options.

Considering these factors, here are some top options for Cricut work:

• Laptops: Laptops offer versatility. They have big screens, powerful processors, good memory and storage, long battery life, and various ports. They let you access all Cricut Design Space features. Great options include Acer Aspire 5, HP Pavilion x360, Apple MacBook Air M1, and Dell XPS 15.
• Tablets: Tablets are super portable. They have touchscreens, pen support, decent power, memory, and storage, plus long battery life. Some Cricut features might have limitations. Good choices are Samsung Tab S8, Apple iPad Pro, Microsoft Surface Pro 9, and Asus ZenBook Duo 14 UX482.
• Smartphones: For accessibility, smartphones are handy. They have smaller screens, decent power, memory, storage, and long battery life. However, there are many feature limitations. Samsung Galaxy S series, Google Pixel series, LG G series, and Motorola Droid series are among the best.

Remember, the best device depends on what’s most important to you for your Cricut projects.

How much RAM is needed for Cricut?

Cricut Design Space requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM on Windows and Mac laptops, iOS smartphones, and Android devices. However, if you are working on huge or complicated designs, having more RAM can enhance your performance and user experience. For best results, you should have at least 8GB of RAM.

Does Cricut need a graphics card?

No, a dedicated graphics card is not necessary for Cricut Design Space to function. Your CPU or chipset’s integrated graphics may be compatible with it. However, a graphics card can improve the clarity of your display and accelerate certain tasks, such as displaying photos or videos. You can seek models with NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards if you desire a graphics card for your Cricut projects.

What is the best HP laptop for Cricut?

The HP Pavilion x360 is one of the top HP laptops for Cricut users. You may use this reasonably priced touchscreen laptop either as a laptop or a tablet, giving you versatility. It boasts a 14-inch display that accepts pen input and multi-touch gestures. Additionally, it contains an Intel Core i3 processor that can efficiently operate the Cricut Design Space program. It has 256GB of SSD storage and 8GB of RAM, which are both more than enough for most Cricut tasks. Additionally, it contains a webcam, a backlit keyboard, and a 360-degree hinge.

Can I use a Cricut with my phone?

By installing the Cricut Design Space app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, you can use a Cricut with your smartphone. Using Bluetooth, the software enables you to create, edit, upload, and cut designs from your phone. However, there are several disadvantages to using your phone instead of a laptop or tablet with your Cricut. You might have a smaller screen, fewer features, or less functionality, for instance. Additionally, you must have a reliable internet connection and sufficient battery life.

What laptops are not compatible with Cricut Design Space?

Here are some laptops that won’t work well with Cricut Design Space:

• Chromebooks: These laptops use Chrome OS, a web-based system that doesn’t support Cricut Design Space. You can’t install or run the software, and they lack the needed ports and Bluetooth for your Cricut machine.
• Linux Laptops: Linux laptops run on an open-source system that’s not compatible with Cricut Design Space. You can’t install or run the software, and they lack the needed ports and Bluetooth for your Cricut machine.
• Windows Systems Running in S Mode: These laptops use Windows 10 with a limited mode that only lets you use apps from the Microsoft Store. You can’t install or run Cricut Design Space, and they lack the needed ports and Bluetooth for your Cricut machine. You can switch out of S Mode by following instructions from Microsoft Support.