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Introduction
The Cricut Maker 3 is the latest iteration of Cricut’s popular cutting machine. With its powerful motor and expanded toolkit, it is capable of cutting and working with a wider range of materials than ever before, making it an excellent choice for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
If you are a fan of the Cricut line of machines, then you have probably heard of the launch of the Cricut Maker 3 and you are probably wondering if you should get one.
Well, it is the newest version from Cricut and has been completely redesigned to offer double the speed and up to 10-x power of the previous version.
Keep it here to find out if this machine is worth your money or not.
Contents
- Cricut Maker 3 - A Complete Overview
- Difference between the Cricut Maker and Cricut Maker 3
- Do you need an Upgrade?
- Is the Cricut Maker 3 Worth it?
- Physical Characteristics of the Cricut Maker 3
- How the Adaptive System Works
- What does the Cricut Maker 3 Comprise?
- Should you get the Machine or Bundle?
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Cricut Maker 3 - A Complete Overview
As you probably already know, the Cricut Maker 3 is an electronic cutting-machine that can be used on over 300 different materials.
It features a smart tool system that enables you to switch out 13 different tools. The cutting device allows you to cut with more precision than you would with a regular knife or scissors.
Now, the machine is part software and part hardware so it includes a software program and the tangible parts.
To use it, you first need to link it to your smartphone or laptop then organize whatever you want to cut in Cricut Design Space before sending it to the machine.
Note that mastering the art of using Cricut Design space can be quite difficult particularly if you do not have a background in program design, but your skills will improve with time.
Difference between the Cricut Maker and Cricut Maker 3
The Cricut Maker and the Maker 3 are almost similar in that they cut the same materials with the same strength and they can use the same tools.
The major difference between the two is that the Maker 3 allows for cutting without a Cricut mat and cuts two times faster.
With the Cricut Maker 3, you get a larger cutting area because it has sensors that measure your material to determine if there is enough of it. It also keeps the materials aligned as the machine cuts.
Do you need an Upgrade?
Honestly, you do not need an upgrade if you already have a Cricut Maker. However, if what you have is an Explore Air machine, then it would be wise to get the latest Cricut model which is the Maker 3.
Just like all other companies, Cricut upgrades its devices. Think about how Toyota creates new car models and Apple new phones.
What we are trying to say here is that companies will always introduce new products but that does not mean that their older versions are obsolete. As long as what you have performs as anticipated, you do not have to rush to get a newer model.
Is the Cricut Maker 3 Worth it?
The first thing you would want to know is that the Maker 3 and all the materials you need for your projects do not come cheap.
Nevertheless, just as with any other hobby or passion, money has to be put in and designing is not any different.
Now, there will be sales from time to time, but they do take some time to come around. Therefore, before you begin stressing about the Cricut Maker 3, you need to ask yourself several crucial questions like:
- Are you patient enough to learn and get over the initial complexity that comes with the machine?
- Is the machine going to improve your life in any way?
- Are you passionate about creating new things?
If your answer to all these questions is yes, then go ahead and purchase the Cricut Maker 3 as it will give you value for money.
Physical Characteristics of the Cricut Maker 3
The Cricut Maker 3 comes in a bluish hue but knowing the company, more colors may be included. Cricut machines are known for their heaviness and this one is no exception. While that may limit its portability, it does translate to quality.
It does not feel cheap and all the corners are seamless.
When you unbox it, the first thing you will see is the chic décor on the cover. That alone adds to the aesthetic of the device.
On the left side of the machine, there are two holders where you can keep essential accessories. On the right side, there are four buttons for controlling the machine. The top button turns the machine on and off while the other three are for loading the mat, starting the cutting process, and pausing your project.
Another thing about the Cricut Maker 3 is that it also comes with a docking station for placing your phone or iPad as you cut. You also get a USB port for conveniently charging the same.
That said; one of the best features of the Cricut Maker 3 is its storage compartments. You can use those to store replacement blades, weeding tools, and blades.
In the machine, there is the adaptive system, which is the technology that runs the device and enables it to cut with ten times more strength than any Explore machine.
How the Adaptive System Works
You are probably wondering what this “Adaptive System” is. Well, it is the place designed for you to install blades and other tools that you will use to cut and customize your project.
One of the most fascinating things about the adaptive system’s technology is its gears for controlling the tip or blade. When you open the machine, you will realize that some of the tools and blades have a golden top. The entire system is known as ‘drive housing’ and when you install it; the adaptive system runs the blade.
What does the Cricut Maker 3 Comprise?
Here is what you will get in your package when you buy the Cricut Maker 3.
- The machine itself
- An adaptive tool housing
- A welcome card with everything you need to know
- A power cable
- A fine point blade
- Practice cut materials
- A free trial subscription for new subscribers to Cricut Access
Our observation here is that Cricut dropped the ball here because the Marker 3’s predecessor included a fabric mat and rotary blade. This may be a bit disappointing especially for new users who look forward to making cards and just cannot from the original box.
No mat and no pen. The bundles do not even come with mats. That does not sound right. Hopefully, Cricut will realize this and do something about it.
Should you get the Machine or Bundle?
As you shop for your Cricut Maker, you will be presented with an array of options. If you are a new user, it can be overwhelming and confusing.
Anyway, don’t worry about that because we are here to save you the trouble. If you are a new user, we would recommend buying a bundle with the essential tools that you need for your projects.
Now, most of the bundles do not include all Cricut tools, but they come with an assortment of materials that you will need while learning the fundamentals of the machine.
FAQs
You probably have several questions about the Cricut Maker 3. We have addressed some commonly asked questions about it in the hope that they will be of some help.
The machine is primarily available on Cricut’s website. Nonetheless, it is set to reach some of the main craft stores in the US like JOANN and Michael’s by the end of June 2021.
Tip: It is better to purchase from the manufacturer because they usually have great discounts. You also reduce your chances of buying dupe products.
You also want to compare prices from different outlets before buying if you are keen on saving your coins.
You need to note that the Cricut Maker is not a finished product. Rather, it is a raw model. We want to believe that the Cricut team was pressed to release the device before the holiday season and you can tell from the results.
A little more thought into the development of the machine and it would have been an outstanding tool. Right now, we do not think it is worth the $400 it goes for.
Fortunately, all the Cricut blades in the market are compatible with the Maker 3. That is great news and is probably one of the best features of the device.
That would have to be the Cricut Explore Air 2. That is because it comes with several features to make cutting seamless. With a fast-cutting mode, Bluetooth, and a dual tool holder, you get to draw and cut in the same pass.
Conclusion
The Cricut Maker 3 can do whatever the Cricut Maker can do only that the former can do more. With Maker 3, you can use all the 13 tools used with the Cricut Maker as well as cut all the materials.
Nonetheless, you will require a cutting mat to feed material into the machine with the Cricut Maker. The Cricut Maker 3 allows you to use the Cricut SmartMaterials that do not require a mat. All you need to do is load and wait for the magic to happen.
The Cricut Maker 3 is also designed to be faster and make precise cuts which is a plus if you like speed and accuracy.
Note that some of the things in the bundle will ship on different days if you buy from Cricut.com.
Hello there, my name is Carole Lokey from Texas. I am a die cutting and scrapbooking enthusiast and I have been sharing my passion with my friends and likeminded folks for close to 15 years now. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me via the contact page. Learn More>>