Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 Which One to Choose

Designs For Cricut

6/12/2025

If you're into crafting, you've probably heard about Cricut machines. Two of the most popular models are the Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3, but which one is right for you? Both machines are fantastic, but they have key differences that might sway your decision.

In this article, we’ll compare their features, performance, and best uses. Plus, we’ll help you decide which machine suits your crafting needs. And yes, while we offer design services for Cricut machines, we don’t own Cricut—just here to help you make the best choice!

1. Overview: Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3

Both the Cricut Maker and Cricut Maker 3 are cutting machines designed for DIY enthusiasts, small businesses, and crafters. They can cut hundreds of materials, from Cricut Smart Vinyl to thick leather. But what sets them apart?

Key Differences at a Glance

Cutting Technology: The Maker 3 uses Smart Materials (no Cricut mats needed), while the original Maker requires mats.
Speed: The Maker 3 cuts faster—up to 2x speed for some materials.
Bluetooth & Connectivity: Both have Bluetooth, but the Maker 3 has improved wireless performance.
Price: The Maker 3 is more expensive, but the original Maker is still powerful.

Now, let’s dive deeper!

2. Cutting Power & Materials

Cricut Maker (Original)

Uses Adaptive Tool System (rotary blade, knife blade, etc.).
Requires Cricut mats for stability.
Cuts 300+ materials (fabric, balsa wood, Cricut printable vinyl, etc.).
Great for intricate projects like Cricut stickers and Cricut print and cut.

Cricut Maker 3

Smart Materials compatible—cut without a mat for longer projects (up to 12 ft!).
Faster cutting (2x speed on compatible materials).
Same adaptive tools as the original Maker.
Ideal for bulk projects like Cricut Smart Vinyl rolls.

Which is Better?

If you work with rolls of vinyl or want mat-free cutting, the Maker 3 wins. But if you’re budget-conscious and don’t mind using Cricut mats, the original Maker is still excellent.

3. Speed & Performance

The Cricut Maker 3 is the speed champion:

Cuts Cricut Smart Vinyl at 2x speed.
Faster processing with Bluetooth 5.0.

The original Maker is no slouch but works best with Cricut mats, which can slow down large projects.

Best for Speed? Maker 3. But for precision (like Cricut pen detailing), both perform similarly.

4. Smart Materials vs Mats

Cricut Maker 3 – Smart Materials

No Cricut mats needed for vinyl, HTV, and poster board.
Supports continuous cutting (great for banners & large decals).

Original Maker – Requires Mats

Needs Cricut mats (StandardGrip, StrongGrip, etc.).
Better for small, intricate cuts (like Cricut stickers).

Which is Better?

If you hate changing mats, go for the Maker 3. But mats provide stability for delicate materials.

5. Software & Design Features

Both machines use Design Space (design.cricut).

Cricut Maker 3 has slight optimizations for Smart Materials.
Both support Cricut print and cut and Cricut that prints (with compatible printers).

Our Design Services

Need custom designs? We create SVG files for Cricut machines (though we’re not affiliated with Cricut).

6. Price & Value

Cricut Maker: More affordable, great for hobbyists.
Cricut Maker 3: Pricier, but worth it for professionals needing speed & Smart Materials.

Best Value?

Beginners: Original Maker.
Business/Heavy Users: Maker 3.

7. Which One Should You Buy?

Choose Cricut Maker If:

✔ You’re on a budget.

✔ You don’t mind using Cricut mats.

✔ You focus on Cricut print and cut, Cricut stickers, or fabric projects.

Choose Cricut Maker 3 If:

✔ You want mat-free cutting with Smart Materials.

✔ Speed matters (bulk projects).

✔ You work with long rolls of Cricut Smart Vinyl.

8. Final Verdict

Both the Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3 are top-tier machines. Your choice depends on:

Budget → Original Maker.
Convenience & Speed → Maker 3.

Need designs? We’ve got you covered! Visit design.cricut for inspiration or check cricut.come/setup for machine setup.

Happy Crafting! 🎨✂️