Cricut Maker 3 Vs Cricut Explore 3: Which One Should You Buy

I know you are a little dicey about choosing your Cricut machine. And you are looking for Cricut Maker 3 vs Cricut Explore 3. When it comes to choosing a machine for your craft projects, we always compare the most popular ones. The same we will be doing in this blog. I will tell you the big differences between these two latest Cricut machines, keeping it very simple.

Both these machines are digital crafting machines that let you cut different materials with the help of a blade to bring your imagination to them. Before comparing them, I would like to say both the machines are great and have some pros and cons. So, it's a matter of your requirements.

Cricut Maker 3 vs Cricut Explore 3

Physical Difference

Explore 3. In size, the Cricut Maker 3 has a dimension of 22.1" X7.1" X6.2." While the Cricut Explore 3 has a dimension of 22.2" X 7" X 5. The Cricut Maker weighs 15.4 pounds, which is slightly heavier than 11 pounds. Hence, Cricut Explore 3 would be a better option if you want a lightweight machine.

Still, both will work almost the same; you will get a little flexibility in storing and carrying it. Note your first difference; choose the second option if you need a machine you can travel with or lift easily.

Overall, the machines aren't hugely different in size; there is a gap of one or two inches in their dimensions.

Also, both the machines have integrated handle cutouts for an easy lift. So, it's super easy for you to lift the machine. Another interesting feature is that they both have a built-in mobile device holder. It can cut the smart materials with 13" in width and 75 feet in height and can connect via Bluetooth or USB.

While the Cricut Maker 3 offers an additional charging port on the side, making it easy to charge your mobile while cutting. Hence, you can easily charge your phone while working.

Now the color comes, which might attract you more than the other machine. Both the cutting machines have bright, attractive colors. The Cricut Maker 3 has a light blue color, while the Cricut Explore 3 has a classic mint green color.

Are you picky about colors? I liked the light blue color; you may like the other one. But that's also a very good choice. So let me tell you about third-party vinyl skins that allow you to add your designs to the machines. You can purchase that if you want to change the appearance without changing the machine.

Materials that can be Cut by Maker and Explore 3

Generally, both machines can cut a long list of materials. For instance, the Cricut Maker 3 can cut everything the Explore 3 can. Th Explore 3 can cut over 100 materials, including cardstock, sticker paper, Cricut's infusible ink, heat transfer vinyl, Cricut's infusible ink, and foil transfers. In addition to this, Circuit Maker 3 can cut 200 more materials.

The additional materials that can be cut by the maker 3 include sheets of leather, felt chipboard, aluminum, and wood.

Tools Supported By Maker 3 And Explore 3

Both the machines support six basic tools. There is a list of tools supported by Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore 3.

Tools supported by Explore 3:

• Fine point blade
• Deep point blade
• Pens & markers
• Scoring stylus
• Foil transfer tool
• Bonded fabric tool

Tools supported by Maker 3:

• Fine point blade
• Deep point blade
• Scoring stylus
• Foil transfer tool
• Knife blade
• Bonded fabric tool
• Engraving tool
• Wavy blade
• Debossing tool
• Rotatory blade
• Perforation blade

As you can see, the Maker 3 supports more tools and blades than the Explore 3. If you have to cut only a few iron-on pieces of vinyl or infusible ink projects, then the Explore 3 would be a nice choice. While if you have to want to cut wood or fabrics and explore some different materials further, it's better to go for the Cricut Maker 3.

Pricing

It's the main thing when it comes to finalizing your decision. How much the machine has features and advantages if it's not affordable, you might not want to buy it. So, the Cricut Maker 3 is priced at $399.99 and the Explore 3 at $299.99. Also, Cricut has some deals and promotions from time to time, so you may get them at a very affordable price. Plus, their bundle deals are good if you expect more benefits than a machine.

Which One Should You Pick?

After discussing Cricut maker 3 vs Cricut Explore 3, what to choose is the big decision. I hope you understood all the key differences between the two machines. So, it's your turn to pick one out, as you know which one is best for you. Let me tell you briefly: if you have to cut a few pieces of vinyl for your project, you can choose Explore 3. But if you want to experiment with wood, fabric, or multiple types of materials, the Cricut Maker 3 will be an excellent choice.