The only difference between the 2 and the original is the 2 has wireless connectivity(don't need to use usb drive), the editing screen is larger, and you can scan the 12x24 mat instead of just cutting on it. This is only the dealer model, the hsn models do not have the scanning feature and the wireless has to be purchased separately. The 2 cost now aqbout what the original cost over a year and half ago when I purchased it. It is a nice machine and I have already used it more than my sizzix big shot but I always found the dies expensive and restrictive size wise