You have finally decided to buy a Cricut machine. Now, you need to choose between Cricut Explore 3 vs Cricut Maker 3. It's a difficult choice, but we are here to help you. First, let's start by talking about what each cutting machine is. The Cricut Explore 3 and Maker 3 are craft-cutting machines that allow you to cut a variety of materials with a rotatable blade to create whatever you want. This means no more scissors or X-Acto knives.
Before we get into the details of each machine, we want to say that the Cricut Explore 3 and Maker 3 are great cutting machines. Both machines have pros and cons, so it is important to know about them before buying them.
We know it sounds like a lot to the procedure but don't worry; we will cover everything you need to know to make the best pick in this article. From physical measurements to available accessories to the final price, you will feel more informed at the end of this article.
Cricut Explore 3 Vs Cricut Maker 3: Overview
The Cricut Explore series is one of the most popular cutting machines ever made. It covers all the essential cutting you need – it can easily cut paper, vinyl, cardstock, and iron-on. Besides being more efficient than the previous Explore model, the Cricut Explore 3 has undergone significant design changes to make it more elegant and efficient.
The most prominent difference is that the smart set dial feature has been removed. On earlier cutting machines, you would rotate this dial to select the material you want to use. Now, it's all done on Design Space software like Maker and Maker 3. It is much more efficient as you can choose from the entire range of materials available rather than the limited materials listed on the dial. Besides, it makes the cutting machine more elegant and refined.
Taking another leaf out of Cricut Maker's book, the Cricut Explore 3 also features a handy built-in holder for tablet or smartphone devices. It won't make much difference if you use the Design Space software on a computer or laptop, but it will be convenient if you use a tablet.
When you heard the name Cricut Maker 3, the first thought that came to your mind was, “There is a Cricut Maker 2?” Your confusion is justified – there was no Cricut Maker 2. According to Cricut, this new machine was given the 3rd-gen title to match the Cricut Explore 3, which was announced at the same time “because they're both worth it!” And it's true. While it's only the second iteration of the Cricut Maker, the Maker 3 packs in so much versatility and power that it deserves to wear the 3rd-gen title alongside the Cricut Explore 3 – not least because it provides up to 10X the cutting power of the Cricut Explore Air 2.
Cricut Maker 3 Vs Explore 3: Key Differences
Cricut Maker 3 is a top Cricut machine. You can use this cutting machine to create almost any type of craft project you can dream up. The Explore 3 does almost as much as the Cricut Maker 3 does for slightly less money. So, which machine works best? Let's see what both machines have to offer.
The Maker 3 includes 2 clamps inside the cutting machine that can hold up to a dozen exchangeable tools, allowing you to cut, write, deboss, score, and engrave more than 300+ different types of materials, including balsa wood and leather. You can use the same materials in Cricut Explore 3 as in Cricut Maker 3, up to 13-by-12 feet with Smart Materials or up to 13-by-12 inches on a Cricut mat.
However, instead of the more than a dozen tools, you can use with Cricut Maker 3, you can use five in Cricut Explore 3. You can cut, write and score but don't deboss or engrave. With Cricut Explore 3, you can use more than 100+ different types of materials, and you can't use thicker materials such as balsa wood and leather.
Cricut Explore 3 Vs Cricut Maker 3: Prices
The Explore 3 machine retails for $319.99 and often sells for less than $300 on Cricut's official website. The Cricut Maker 3 retails for $429.99 and goes on a discount for under $390. In addition, if you are a member of Cricut Access, you get great deals on cutting machines. Is the $100+ cost difference worth buying the Cricut Maker 3 over the Cricut Explore 3? It depends on your requirements.
If you are preparing to make paper and vinyl labels to decorate your house, along with some fun DIY projects throughout the year, the Cricut Explore 3 is best for you. But if you are searching for versatility, want to test with other different types of materials, or plan to expand your crafting hobby, the Cricut Maker 3 is a good investment.
Cricut Explore 3 Vs Cricut Maker 3: Which One Should You Buy?
Although you can't cut thicker materials with the Explore 3, you can still do a lot. You can use more than 100+ different types of materials, such as paper, vinyl, iron-on (HTV), cardstock, Cricut infusible ink, and many more.
You can cut, write and score. You can use the print-then-cut feature, which involves sending a design to your printer and putting it into the cutting machine to cut out. It's great for stickers and cards. You can even put pens in the tool clamps and write directly on your craft projects.
The Explore 3 is still a serious cutting machine with plenty of space to grow for novices. You will still need some space in your house for your craft projects. You can start a business using the Cricut Explore 3, and you won't be able to cut thick materials such as balsa wood and leather.
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