Several years ago, Silhouette launched two very different machines: the Curio 1 and the Cameo 1. Many users still have questions about their differences or are looking for an alternative to the Curio, which is no longer manufactured. In this post, we explain why they were created and what options you have today if you are considering purchasing a cutting plotter.

What was the Silhouette Curio 1 and what made it special?

The Silhouette Curio was a unique machine designed for creative users who wanted to do more than just cut vinyl or paper. Its standout features included:

• Engraving and embossing in low relief.
• Cutting of thicker materials (up to 2 mm with the appropriate platform).
• Use of multiple tools simultaneously, thanks to its dual carriage.
• Ideal for crafts, scrapbooking, or small DIY projects.

Although it offered very different functions compared to the Cameo 1, its cutting size was more limited and it had a steeper learning curve. Nowadays, Silhouette has officially stopped manufacturing and selling it, although it can still be found second-hand.

Silhouette: flexibility, evolution, and active community

Although the Curio 1 is no longer manufactured, Silhouette has evolved, and today there are machines that are much more powerful, faster, and specialised.

At Brildor, we have created an updated comparison of the best cutting plotters, and these are some of the most outstanding models, especially within the Silhouette ecosystem:

Silhouette has been one of the leading brands in the world of domestic cutting thanks to its wide range of models, compatibility with all types of materials, and a very comprehensive software (Silhouette Studio), which in its paid versions offers advanced functionalities without the need for subscriptions.

Retrato 4

Designed for those seeking a lightweight and functional machine. It is perfect for making stickers, scrapbooking, and portable projects. It features a cutting width of up to 21.6 cm and a mark reading system for working with A4 prints.

Cameo 5 and Cameo 5 Plus

Designed for users who want to go beyond. They offer a power of up to 5 kg, dual carriage, cutting speed of 40 cm/s, and the ability to work with materials up to 3 mm thick. The Plus version increases the cutting area for larger projects.

Cameo Pro MK II

The ideal option if you work with vinyl in large formats. Its cutting width reaches up to 61 cm, making it a semi-professional tool for signage, shop windows, or large-format customisation.

Curio 2

The spiritual successor to the original Curio. It is the only desktop plotter with a flatbed that allows working with materials up to 2 cm thick. Ideal for more artisanal techniques, engraving, and creative projects with unconventional materials.

💡 Still have questions about the Cameo range? You can find answers to many of them in this article with the 10 most frequently asked questions about Silhouette Cameo.

What if you look for other brands?

Beyond Silhouette, there are also highly recommended models depending on the type of work. In the post: "What is the best cutting plotter? Complete comparison 2025" we present the main brands and models currently available. We have excluded industrial plotters such as Roland, Graphtec or GCC to focus on desktop equipment perfect for freelancers, small workshops, and entrepreneurs.

⬇️ Download the Comparative Table of Cutting Plotters in PDF here

Which model suits me best?

The best choice depends on your projects, your space, and your level of experience. Before deciding, consider the following:

• 🎯 Be clear about what you are going to do: Cutting textile vinyl is not the same as scrapbooking or engraving. Define your primary uses to choose the right model.
• 📐 Evaluate your workspace: if you have limited space, choose a compact model like the Portrait 4. If you can accommodate a larger table, you might consider a Cameo Plus or Pro.
• 🧩 Review the software: some programs are more comprehensive than others. Silhouette Studio, for instance, stands out for its versatility, especially in its one-time purchase versions.
• 🧑‍💻 Rely on the community and support: if you are just starting, having access to tutorials, user groups, and good technical support makes all the difference.

The Silhouette Curio was a unique machine, designed for creative users who wanted more than just vinyl cutting. Today, although it is no longer manufactured, you can fulfil its functions with various modern models that offer greater speed, precision, and versatility.

At Brildor, we work with the leading brands in the market and can assist you in finding the plotter that best suits your projects. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to share them with us by leaving a comment. Our team will be delighted to provide you with answers and assistance. You can also directly contact our Customer Service department for additional help.

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