What Are the Cricut Maker Models?
The Cricut Maker and Maker 3 are both Cricut’s best performance models. They’re made for those crafters who want to take things more seriously. With the ability to cut over 300 materials—including fabric, leather, chipboard, and basswood—both machines are great options for DIYers. The most exciting features about these models are their compatibility with new tools like the Knife Blade, Rotary Blade, and the Scoring Wheel. So let’s find out which of these machines is better: Cricut Maker vs Cricut Maker 3.
What’s the Difference Between Cricut Maker and Cricut Maker 3?
The Cricut Maker was released in 2017, and the Maker 3 followed in 2021 with some great new upgrades! The Maker 3 can cut at twice the speed of the standard Maker. This is game-changing when you’re cutting multiple or intricate designs that take time.
The Maker 3 can also use Smart Materials, allowing for matless cutting, and it can cut up to 12 feet in length using them. In contrast, the standard Maker can only cut up to 24 inches using a mat (which still isn’t bad!).
Both machines are fully compatible with a wide range of materials—including wood! (See our Cricut material guide here.) You can use all the same special attachments with both machines, but the Maker 3 is better suited for higher-volume crafters who need to get a lot cut fast.
Who Is Each Machine Best For?
Cricut Maker
The 2017 release of the Cricut Maker model is great for beginner crafters who want professional capabilities. The ability to cut balsa wood, chipboard, and fabric allows for endless crafting projects. It’s perfect for casual crafters wanting to explore.
One thing to remember about this Maker model is you do need to use cutting mats and can’t use Smart Materials, which you may find frustrating at times.
Cricut Maker 3
If you’re running a small business and want to save time and energy when cutting, the 2021 Maker 3 model is perfect. With twice the speed and the ability to cut without a mat, you can cut in bulk—making it much more efficient.
Plus, the ability to cut much longer lengths is great for cutting without interruptions.
Compatible Tools for Both Maker Machines
- Rotary Blade – For cutting fabric
- Knife Blade – For thick materials like wood
- Scoring Wheel – For precise folds (cards, boxes)
- Engraving Tip – For metal, acrylic
- Debossing Tip – For leather, cardstock
- Perforation Blade – For peel-away designs
What Can You Make with the Cricut Maker and Maker 3?
There are so many things you can cut and create with your Cricut Makers, including:
- Heat transfer vinyl for personalized t-shirts and tote bags
- Cardstock for greeting cards, invitations, and labels
- Paper for quilting and sewing patterns
- Balsa wood and chipboard for wooden signs and engraved gifts
- Custom stickers using Print Then Cut
- Leather for earrings or accessories
- Even 3D paper gift boxes to put them in!
💰 Price Comparison & Value
Both machines offer great value at their price points. The Cricut Maker is definitely cheaper and is great for serious crafters who want to experiment with many different options.
The Maker 3 is a more expensive machine but allows for mat-free cutting using Smart Materials and cuts much faster.
If waiting for your projects to cut is something you hate, then this could be the answer you’re looking for!
🧵 Cricut Maker vs Maker 3: Final Thoughts
Both machines are excellent options, and the main difference is efficiency.
If you’re not running a craft business that needs to print 10 of the same design super fast, the standard Maker can save you money.
But if time IS money and you don’t want to be waiting around, the Maker 3 is your best option.
✅ Check out our free SVGs compatible with both Maker machines
