What kind of CNC cutter would you recommend?

I’m only vaguely aware of craft/robo/CNC cutters that aren’t laser cutters.  I don’t want one of those has to use cartridges to give it different preprogrammed cutting patterns – I want to be able to design my own shapes for cutting.  So, I ask you now for your help…

  • Is there a difference between robocutters, craft cutters, hobby cutters, and CNC cutters?
  • What brands are there?
  • How reliable are the various brands?
  • Besides just paper and cardstock, what kinds of materials should they be able to cut?
  • How easy are they to use, program, etc?
  • What kinds of reuseable supplies do they require?  (Blades?)
  • What should I watch out for?
  • What questions should I be asking?
  • What do you use your cutter for?