When it comes to Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 there are some key differences that separate Cricut's older digital craft cutting machine from its newer release. In this guide I'll share how they are similar and how they differ. It can be a little nuanced too, as both machines can cut, score and engrave more than 300 materials, including paper, fabric and wood.
While Cricut has other machines, including the Cricut Explore 3 and Cricut Joy, it's the new larger and more powerful cutting machines that grab the headlines. Both make use of Cricut Design Space for planning projects and both make use of 13 tools and blades for added functions. Maker and Maker 3 feature in my guide to the best Cricut Machines, and in my feature Cricut vs Silhouette I cover this band against its main rival.
In this Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 feature we're comparing price, design, functions, and everything else you could wish to know about these two great machines. When you've decided, take a look at the best Cricut accessories and read our feature on how to make money with Cricut to boost your income.
Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3: quick comparison
Cricut Maker is the brand's original hit digital cutting machine and it's still a very capable craft gadget. The Maker remains one of the largest around and can cut, engrave and score over 300 materials.
It's been around a while, which has two great advantages: the Maker has a wealth of add-on tools and blades to make use of and there are always excellent deals on its price.
If you can live without using Cricut Smart Materials then the Maker is an excellent choice for you and your wallet.
For
- 13 different tools
- Automatic blade detection
- A pro machine for hobbyists
Against
- Doesn't work with smart vinyl
- It's a heavy machine
Cricut Maker 3 is the newest craft cutting machine from Cricut, and actually is very similar to Cricut Maker in size and, like the older machine, can be used with more than 300 materials.
The differences are subtle but needed, for example Maker 3 has double the cutting speed as the older Maker. But it's the use of Smart Materials that makes a difference, these enable you to cut without a mat and much longer pieces of vinyl.
For
- Can use Cricut smart materials
- Very fast cutting times
- Very quiet when in use
Against
- Doesn’t ship with a mat