What can the Maker 3 cut that the Explore 3 cannot?

The Maker 3 cuts fabric, leather, balsa wood and other thick materials with its tool suite. The Explore 3 is limited to lighter materials like vinyl, paper and cardstock.

Do I need a mat to use it?

Only with Smart Materials, which feed through without a mat for cuts up to 12 ft. Standard vinyl, paper and fabric still need a mat.

What comes in this bundle?

The Maker 3 machine, a Premium Fine-Point Blade with housing, a USB cable and a power adapter. Mats, extra blades and tools are not included.

Does it work with a phone or tablet?

Yes. It connects over Bluetooth and runs through the Cricut Design Space app on phone, tablet, Mac or Windows.

Is the Cricut Access subscription required?

No. You can design and cut without it, but a free trial is included for new subscribers and some images and projects need a subscription.

Can it cut fabric without a rotary blade?

The Fine-Point Blade can cut some backed fabrics, but clean fabric cuts need the Rotary Blade, sold separately.

Where is the Cricut Maker 3 Starter Bundle cheapest?

At eBay, for $249.00, 22% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Cricut Maker 3 Starter Bundle?

6 stores we checked sell it, including Pomona Pawn Shop, Mercari, Poshmark, Home Depot, Michaels.

Cricut Maker 3 Starter Bundle

Best price now

$249.00at eBayChecked Nov 8

22% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 6 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission.

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What reviewers say

Owners rate the Maker 3 highly for cut accuracy and the mat-free Smart Material workflow, and call it a clear step up from the Explore for fabric and thick materials. The most common complaints are the cost of accessories and Design Space's subscription prompts.

What people mention

Cut qualityPraisedOwners say cuts are clean and accurate across vinyl, cardstock and leather.
Mat-free cuttingPraisedSmart Materials let users make long cuts without a mat, which saves setup time.
Accessory costCriticisedBuyers say blades, mats and specialty tools add up quickly.
Design SpaceMixedUsers like the project library but dislike the subscription prompts.
Size and weightMixedOwners call it sturdy but note it is heavy and needs a permanent desk spot.

About the Cricut Maker 3 Starter Bundle