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Choose Cricut Maker 3 if you regularly make long cuts with compatible Smart Materials and want to feed them directly into the machine without a mat. The original Maker remains a capable choice for mat-based projects, especially if you already own one or find it at a meaningfully lower verified price.
Both models have 13 compatible tool types listed by Cricut. The clearest documented differences are Smart Materials workflow, maximum cut length, and Cricut’s stated speed comparison; actual prices and bundles should be checked before buying.
Key takeaways
- Maker 3 supports matless cutting with compatible Smart Materials; the original Maker requires a mat for Smart Materials.
- Cricut lists cuts up to 12 ft (3.65 m) with Smart Materials for Maker 3 and up to 2 ft (0.59 m) for the original Maker.
- Cricut says Maker 3 is up to 2X faster at cutting and writing than Maker. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results.
- Cricut lists 13 compatible tool types for each model. Specialty tools may be sold separately; check compatibility and listing contents.
- Maker 3 is not the newest Maker generation on Cricut’s current comparison page, which also features Maker 4.
What is the difference between Cricut Maker and Maker 3?
The main difference is material feed. Maker 3 is designed for compatible Smart Materials that feed directly into the machine without a cutting mat. The original Maker requires a mat for Smart Materials. Cricut’s Smart Materials guidance warns that matless use with older machines may cause jams, compromise precision, or damage machine parts.
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Cricut lists 13 compatible tool types for both models. Maker 3 can also cut compatible materials on mats; Cricut lists 12 x 12 inch and 12 x 24 inch mats for it. The upgrade is most relevant to long Smart Materials projects, not ordinary mat-based cutting.
#1 Best Overall
- BUNDLE INCLUDES – Cricut Maker 4, Fine-Point Blade, Materials Sampler (Smart Vinyl, Matless Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Matless Heat Transfer Vinyl, Cardstock, Transfer Tape), Fine Point Pen, Light Grip Mat, Weeder & 30 bonus images in Design Space app
- ENDLESS CREATION & PERSONALIZATION - Cricut Maker 4 works with 300+ materials, including leather, wood, vinyl, iron-on HTV, cardstock, stickers & more. This machine not only cuts, but it also draws, foils, scores, engraves, debosses, perforates, & more
- COMPATIBLE WITH INKJET PRINTER - Create full-color designs for stickers & more with the Print-Then-Cut feature, compatible with most inkjet printers
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED — Design Space is the easy-to-learn design software that connects to all Cricut cutting machines. Our free content library includes 3,000+ images and 100+ fonts. Add our optional Cricut Access Subscription* to unlock more
- BONUS DIGITAL CONTENT – Bundle includes 30 additional premium-quality images with purchase
| Decision factor | Original Cricut Maker | Cricut Maker 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Materials workflow | Use Smart Materials on a machine mat | Compatible Smart Materials can feed without a mat |
| Maximum documented cut length | Up to 2 ft (0.59 m) | Up to 12 ft (3.65 m) with Smart Materials |
| Speed comparison | Baseline in Cricut’s comparison | Cricut says up to 2X faster at cutting and writing |
| Compatible tool types | 13, according to Cricut | 13, according to Cricut |
| Best fit | Mat-based projects; existing owners or buyers with a verified lower price | Long cuts using compatible Smart Materials |
These figures are Cricut specifications and comparisons, not independent test results. See Cricut’s Maker Quick Start Guide and Maker 3 Quick Start Guide.
Is Cricut Maker 3 worth it over the original Maker?
Maker 3 may be worth choosing if you regularly cut longer decals, signs, or other designs with compatible Smart Vinyl or Smart Iron-On and value avoiding a mat for those cuts. The original Maker can suit projects that fit on mats, particularly if you already own it or find it at a meaningfully lower verified price.
For painting and decorating projects, the difference may matter for long lettering, stencils, masking designs, or wall graphics. Matless does not mean every material can be fed directly into Maker 3: confirm material compatibility and use a mat when required.
Cricut lists a maximum cut length of 12 ft (3.65 m) for Maker 3 with Smart Materials versus 2 ft (0.59 m) for the original Maker. Cricut also says Maker 3 is up to 2X faster at cutting and writing. These are manufacturer-published figures, not independent measurements of every project. See the Maker support guide.
Rank #2
- COMPLETE CRICUT EXPLORE 5 KIT: Start crafting right out of the box with the Cricut Explore 5 cutting machine plus Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On (HTV), printable vinyl, cardstock, insert cards, and project inspiration. Create decals, labels, stickers, greeting cards, personalized gifts, and custom apparel without purchasing additional supplies. 30% more compact than previous models.
- CUTS 100+ MATERIALS WITH PRECISION: The Cricut Explore 5 smart cutting machine works with vinyl, heat transfer vinyl (HTV), cardstock, printable materials, paper, felt, and more. Create custom home decor, business products, apparel, scrapbook projects, stickers, and event decorations with clean, accurate cuts. Compatible with Cricut Smart Materials for continuous matless cuts up to 12 feet long. Easily make wall decals, signs, banners, labels, and bulk crafting projects while reducing setup time and material waste.
- RAINBOW ESSENTIALS BUNDLE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Essential Bundle includes the all-new Cricut Explore 5 Cutting Machine as well as must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. In addition you will receive 6 Smart Vinyl Sheets (9.5" x 13"), 6 Smart Heat Transfer Vinyl Sheets (9.5" x 13"), and access to 400+ Projects and How-To's in Design Space.
- CREATE STICKERS, SHIRTS, CARDS & MORE: Make custom stickers, vinyl decals, labels, greeting cards, iron-on shirts, tote bags, party decorations, wedding projects, and personalized gifts. This all-in-one Cricut bundle provides the most popular materials needed for a wide variety of projects. Designed for first-time Cricut users and growing makers, this bundle makes setup simple and crafting approachable. A thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, Mother’s Day, graduation, weddings, or anyone starting a DIY journey.
- BEGINNER-FRIENDLY CRAFTING MACHINE: Bluetooth connectivity and Cricut Design Space provide an easy setup experience with guided project tutorials and templates. Ideal for first-time Cricut users, hobby crafters, teachers, and small business owners. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started.
Can the original Cricut Maker use Smart Materials?
Yes, when Smart Materials are placed on a machine mat. Cricut’s guidance says matless use with older machines may cause material jams, compromise precision, or damage machine parts. Read Cricut’s Smart Materials guidance before starting a project.
Does Maker 3 cut faster?
Cricut says Maker 3 is up to 2X faster at cutting and writing than the original Maker. Treat this as Cricut’s model comparison, not an independently tested result or a promise that every project will take half the time.
What stayed the same between Maker and Maker 3?
Cricut lists 13 compatible tool types for each model. Both can be used with compatible tools and materials, but the specific tool, material, and settings matter. Specialty items such as Knife Blade, Rotary Blade, and QuickSwap Tools may be sold separately. Check Cricut’s Maker guide and Maker 3 guide for compatibility.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match| Project need | What to check | Applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Mat-based cutting | Compatible material, machine mat, and tool | Both models |
| Long matless cuts | Compatible Smart Materials and documented machine workflow | Maker 3 |
| Specialty techniques | Exact tool compatibility; some tools are sold separately | Both models |
Who should buy Cricut Maker 3?
Consider Maker 3 if these match your projects:
- You regularly cut longer designs using compatible Smart Materials.
- You want to make long decals, signs, or similar projects without a mat.
- You value the matless feed workflow for those compatible materials.
The strongest case for Maker 3 is its Smart Materials workflow and longer documented cuts, not a claim that it is better for every type of cutting. Cricut’s current comparison page also features Maker 4, so check the current lineup if shopping for a new machine.
Rank #3
- 12 IN (30.5 CM) CUTTING MACHINE: Cricut Explore 5 is the newest generation of our Cricut Explore machines — perfect for making a variety of projects like custom decals, personalized apparel, full-color stickers, cards, and so much more. You can even make in multiples! 30% more compact than previous models, Cricut Explore 5 features an aesthetic new look and simplified interface for a more intuitive experience – all with the same dependable 12 in (30.5 cm) cutting performance. Available in a brand-new Taupe color.
- COMPATIBILITY: Precision-cuts 100+ popular materials, including vinyl, iron-on, cardstock & printable materials, plus this machine writes, draws, foils, scores & cuts intricate designs with precision. Works with six tools, including Deep Cutting Tool (sold separately) for working with thicker materials like foam & rubber. Plus, it features a new hassle-free snap-in pen holder.
- BUNDLE & SAVE: Make a wide variety of projects right out of the box and save even more! The Essential Bundle includes must-have tools and materials like Smart Vinyl, Smart Iron-On, Value Cardstock, Insert Card Sets, and Printable Vinyl. *Materials and accessories value based on comparable Cricut products sold separately. Bundle also includes 25 additional premium-quality images with purchase, plus 1 font.
- FULL-COLOR POSSIBILITIES: Print your design with your home inkjet printer, then your Cricut cutting machine automatically recognizes & precision-cuts around inkjet-printed images to create full-color stickers, decals, apparel & more.
- NO DESIGN EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Use your mobile or desktop device and connect through Bluetooth to Design Space, our free, easy-to-use app that helps you turn your ideas into something one of a kind. With step-by-step design flows, customizable templates, AI-image generation, and a huge content library, it makes personalization feel effortless. Our free out-of-the box content library includes 3,000+ images, 100+ fonts, and 1,000+ projects to help get you started. Additional content can always be purchased a la carte, or go all in with a Cricut Access Subscription to unlock our ever-growing library for a small reoccurring monthly or annual fee.
Who should buy the original Cricut Maker?
Consider the original Maker if most of your projects use mats, you already own the machine, or you find a meaningfully lower price after checking the exact listing. The price advantage is conditional; this research did not establish a current apples-to-apples price comparison.
For a used or refurbished machine, compare condition, included tools and mats, warranty, seller, shipping, returns, and any replacement items you may need. Verify the machine and accessory compatibility before buying.
How much do Cricut Maker and Maker 3 cost to own?
Ownership costs depend on your projects. Check the price of the machine and the specific materials, mats, and specialty tools you need. Cricut says some specialty tools are sold separately, so verify bundle contents rather than assuming a tool or mat is included.
Prices, stock, and bundles vary. Cricut’s current comparison page features Maker 4 as well as Maker 3; check the Cricut comparison chart and retailer listings for current prices, availability, warranty, and included items. This research did not establish an apples-to-apples current price comparison between Maker and Maker 3.
Rank #4
- DIGITAL CONTENT BUNDLE-This Cricut Machine bundle comes with a digital library of 30 images. In setting up the machine, you will be guided to register and the digital content will automatically be entitled to your account
- LET’S MAKE - Make more than you ever dreamed possible with Cricut Maker 3, the ultimate smart cutting machine. With the ability to cut more than 300 materials, and compatible with more than 13 tools to cut, score, write, deboss, engrave, and more.
- ACCESS TO BEGINNER’S GUIDES, EXPERT-LED COURSES and WORKSHOPS – Build the skills to create w/ confidence w/ the Learning Plan built into Design Space upon registering your machine. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started on day 1.
- EXTRA LONG, PRECISE CUTTING FOR LARGER PROJECTS – Cricut Smart Materials allow you to go bigger than ever before - cut a single image up to 12 ft (3.6 m), or repeated cuts up to 75 ft all without a mat in one go.
- DESIGN APP WITH ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES – Use with Cricut Design Space, our free app to kickstart and customize your projects. Design Space assists you through selecting your materials and utilizing the right tools. (iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac)
Do you need a mat with Cricut Maker 3?
You do not need a mat for Maker 3 when using compatible Smart Materials in Cricut’s supported matless workflow. You still need a mat for other materials and projects as specified by Cricut. The original Maker requires a mat for Smart Materials.
Which accessories matter for each machine?
Choose accessories for the material and technique you plan to use. Check each item’s compatibility and whether it is included in the specific machine bundle; Cricut says specialty tools such as Knife Blade, Rotary Blade, and QuickSwap Tools may be sold separately.
- Smart Materials: Compatible materials enable Maker 3’s matless workflow. The original Maker requires a mat for them.
- Mats: The original Maker uses a machine mat; Maker 3 also supports mat-based cutting.
- Specialty tools: Verify the exact tool and machine compatibility, and check whether it is sold separately.
Maker vs. Maker 3: a simple buying decision
- Choose Maker 3 if long cuts with compatible Smart Materials and matless feeding are important to your projects.
- Consider the original Maker if your work is mostly mat-based, you already own it, or its current verified price is meaningfully lower.
- Compare tools and materials. Cricut lists 13 compatible tool types for each model; check which accessories your projects require and what the listing includes.
- Check the current lineup and deal. Cricut’s comparison page also features Maker 4; verify current availability, price, warranty, and bundle contents before buying.
Maker 3 is the fit for compatible matless Smart Materials projects and longer cuts. The original Maker remains a possible choice for mat-based workflows, especially for existing owners or buyers who verify a lower total cost.
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Which Cricut Maker is best for beginners?
It depends on the projects and budget. Maker 3 offers matless feeding for compatible Smart Materials; the original Maker may suit a beginner whose projects use mats, particularly if the machine is already owned or available at a verified lower price.
Best Value
- CRICUT MAKER 3 & DIGITAL CONTENT BUNDLE- This Cricut Machine bundle comes with a digital library of 80 images & 12 fonts. In setting up the machine, you will be guided to register & the digital content will automatically be entitled to your account
- LET’S MAKE - Make more than you ever dreamed possible with Cricut Maker 3, the ultimate smart cutting machine. With the ability to cut more than 300 materials, and compatible with more than 13 tools to cut, score, write, deboss, engrave, and more.
- EXTRA LONG, PRECISE CUTTING FOR LARGER PROJECTS – Cricut Smart Materials allow you to go bigger than ever before - cut a single image up to 12 ft (3.6 m), or repeated cuts up to 75 ft all without a mat in one go!
- ACCESS TO BEGINNER’S GUIDES, EXPERT-LED COURSES & WORKSHOPS – Build the skills to create w/ confidence w/ the Learning Plan built into Design Space upon registering your machine. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started on day 1.
- DESIGN APP WITH ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES – Use with Cricut Design Space, our free app to kickstart & customize your projects. Design Space assists you through selecting your materials & utilizing the right tools. (iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac)
Can I cut Smart Materials on the original Cricut Maker?
Yes, with a machine mat. Cricut warns that using Smart Materials without a mat on older machines may cause jams, compromise precision, or damage machine parts.
How long can Maker 3 cut compared with the original Maker?
Cricut lists up to 12 ft (3.65 m) with Smart Materials for Maker 3 and up to 2 ft (0.59 m) for the original Maker. These are Cricut specifications.
Does Cricut Maker 3 really cut faster?
Cricut says Maker 3 is up to 2X faster at cutting and writing than the original Maker. This is a manufacturer comparison, not an independent test of every project.
Is Maker 3 the newest Cricut Maker?
No. Cricut’s current comparison page also features Maker 4. Check the current lineup and local availability when shopping.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
