Are you looking to add a cutting machine to your craft room? But you are confused about which to buy between Cricut Maker 3 vs Explore 3. Both machines are upgraded versions of the Cricut Maker and Explore Air 2 with some incredible new features, including faster cutting speeds and matless cutting. Now, these brand new machines cut and write 2x faster than previous models, and you can now create projects more quickly than ever.
In this guide, I will walk you through all about the Cricut Explore 3 and the Cricut Make 3 and also take a look at what these machines have in common and what is different. This specific guide will help you decide which machine you should add to your craft. Let us find the best machine for you.
Let’s check out the design, features, and performance of these machines and get an all-in-one overview.
The Cricut Explore 3 is redesigned from the Explore Air 2, yet the size and shape are almost the same. Its dimensions are 22.2 x 7 x 5.9 inches, and the maximum cutting width is 11.7 inches for smart materials and 11.5 inches for mat. Apart from this, the weight of this machine is 6.9 kg, and it comes in different color segments.
While the Cricut Maker 3 measures 22.1 x 7.1 x 6.2 inches, that means you get almost the same size. Additionally, due to the similar size, some tools and accessories work in both machines. Apart from this, the weight of Maker 3 is 7 kg. In summary, the design of both machines is similar except for the colors.
Cricut Explore 3 features:
Firstly, Explore 3 can cut over 100 plus materials precisely
Next, it can be connected via USB or Bluetooth
Furthermore, this machine is able to cut 12 feet without a Cricut mat using smart materials.
Additionally, it works with the Cricut Design Space program to make projects.
Last but not least, compatible with your home inkjet printer to Print Then Cut.
Cricut Maker 3 features:
First of all, Maker 3 is able to cut 3x more than Explore 3 with a capability of 300-plus materials.
In other words, it is compatible with the foil transfer kit to work with specific materials.
On the other hand, Maker 3 has a faster cutting speed than Explore 3
Next, the Maker 3 has a roll holder for smart vinyl upto to 75 feet long.
USB and Bluetooth are used for connectivity.
Performance is one key thing where these machines differ.
Cricut Maker 3 is more powerful and faster than Cricut Explore 3.
The Maker 3 supports more than 13 tools, while the Explore 3 only supports 6.
In terms of cutting pressure, the Explore 3 has a standard cutting pressure and can cut up to 2 mm thick material. Where Maker 3 is ten times more capable.
Cover the following pros and cons carefully and see which machine is good and bad for whom.
This machine is able to cut faster than other cutting machines.
Can cut design up to 12 feet long
Moreover, it can cut over 300 plus materials accurately
Next, this machine is super simple to use
This machine is Expensive
Sometimes, you need to purchase essential products for your project
Pros: Cricut Explore 3
Grease versatility and performance
Faster than Cricut Maker but not Maker 3
Easy to access for beginners
Able to cut 100 plus popular materials.
It does not cut as much as Maker 3.
Needs to purchase additional tools.
After discussing the performance and features, it is also very important to know the price of these machines because it will help you in planning according to your budget. The retail price of the Explore 3 is $319.99, while the Cricut Maker 3 is priced at $429.99, and these are regular prices, so you do not need to pay this amount. You can purchase these machines from Cricut’s official site at a discount of over $50.
Check out the following table and see what the main differences are between the both machines.
Specifications
Cricut Maker 3
Cricut Explore 3
Color
Bluish-Glossy / Light Gray
Mint and matte
Cutting Force
4kg
400 gram
Software
Design Space
Cricut Design Space
Matless Cutting
Yes, with Smart Materials only
Same as Smart Materials Only
Technology
Adaptive tool System
Standard
Knife Blade
YES
NO
Quick Swap Tools
YES
NO
Max Cutting Materials on a mat
12 X 24 inches
12 x 24 inches
Weight
15.4 pound
11 pound
Max Materials Size
11.75 in wide and 12 feet long
11.7 in wise and 12 ft long
Max Depth Cut
Up to 2.4 mm
Up 2 mm
Print Then Cut
YES
YES
Cartridge Slot
No – need
No – need
Materials
300 plus
100 only!
Rotary Blade
YES
NO
Choosing a machine between Cricut Maker 3 vs Explore 3 is very easy. But before doing so, there are some points that you need to keep in mind. The first thing is that you select the machine according to your crafting needs and budget. For example, if you do not work on more than 100 materials, then you should select Explore 3. Additionally, the Maker 3 is more capable in almost every aspect than the Explore 3.
The Cricut Maker 3 comes with additional features and can do everything the Explore 3 is capable of. Maker 3 machine can cut over 300 different materials, from paper and delicate fabrics to thick materials like matboard, leather, and basswood, whereas the Explore 3 can only cut about 100 materials. It works with 13 different tools, which opens up more crafting possibilities than other cutting machines.
Both are digital cutting machines that cut and write digital files on various materials. In addition to cutting materials, they use additional tools and materials to write, score, and foil designs to create DIY projects. With more features and advanced capabilities, the Maker 3 can complete various DIY tasks with more precision than any other cutter machine.
It really depends on what projects you want to make. If you want to make mostly vinyl projects, written projects, and cards, the Explore 3 will be the best machine for you. Additionally, if you need a machine for a pro-level project and use a variety of materials, like leather, wood, and more, then the Cricut Maker 3 is the one for you.