Cricut Explore 3 Review: The Ultimate DIY Cutting Machine
Cricut Explore is one of the next generations of Cricut cutting machines which are made to give users even more ways to create designs with Cricut. Are you super excited to know this machine in detail? This guide will talk about Cricut Explore 3 machines - what they do, how they differ from Explore Air 2, and much more. Let’s first understand what this machine is and what all comes in its box.
It is the next-generation Cricut cutting machine used to cut various materials. The box contains the machine itself, a USB Cord, a power cord, a fine-point blade, housing installed in the machine, plus a welcome book and some practice materials. Also, you notice that Air has disappeared between the Cricut Explore Air 2 and the Explore 3. It is just because all machines are Bluetooth now.
What Does Explore 3 Do?
This smart cutting machine can cut, draw, score, and do more with speed and precision. It works with six different tools to cut and embellish more than 100 materials. When compared to Explore Air 2, it cuts much faster and does everything that the former does and more. Proceed by connecting the power cord to the back of your machine. And then, plug the other end of your power cord into an outlet. Now, click the power button to turn it on. You will notice the machine is making some noises; it simply indicates that you are ready to begin.
Explore 3 Compatible Tools
Some of the tools that this machine is compatible with are as follows
:
- Premium fine-point, deep point, and bonded fabric blade.
- Scoring stylus.
- Foil transfer tool and smart vinyl roll holder.
How to Set Up Explore 3?
Follow these simple steps to connect your machine efficiently
- First, sign into Cricut Design Space (Make sure to create an account if you don’t have one already).
- In the next step, click on the top left menu and select “New Product Setup.”
- Select your new machine from there.
- Follow the on-screen instructions as prompted.
How is Explore 3 Different From Explore 2?
Some of the critical differences mentioned below will help you differentiate Explore Air 2 and Explore 3 in a better way.
- Explore Air 2 can only print-then-cut on white paper, whereas Explore 3 can also print-then-cut on white and colored paper.
- Explore Air 3 includes a dial that you need to change on the machine but Explore has integrated cutting settings.
- Explore 3 is fast out of the box; it offers approximately 2x faster-cutting speed than the Explore Air 2.
- The last and most crucial difference is that Explore 3 includes the mat-less cutting capability just like the Cricut joy.
Fast cutting speed and the capability of mattress cutting with Cricut smart materials make this machine different from other Cricut Explore machines.
Upgrade To The Cricut Explore 3: Is It Better?
Those willing to have all the latest and greatest updates should have Explore 3 for sure. The large matless smart materials released are definitely the upgrade users are excited about. But at the same time, if you are happy with your current machine, there is no need to upgrade. With these new Cricut machines launching, certain types of Cricut Smart materials came into the picture. These materials can cut at a faster speed. A few of the smart materials are:
- Smart Vinyl
- Smart Iron On
- Smart paper
- Other materials like vinyl, iron-on, and cardstock.
Maximum Cut Sizes for Explore 3
Details on the maximum sizes of Smart materials you can cut via Explore 3 are
- Paper Sticker Cardstock: 29.7 cm x 28.4 cm.
- Iron-On: 29.7 cm x 1.2 m
- Vinyl: 29.7 cm x 3.6 m
Though this is the maximum size of a cut, it is definitely only for some projects. The Explore 3 can support a roll of vinyl up to 75 feet long.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Set Up Cricut Explorer 3 and Activate Bluetooth?
Go through these steps to set up your new machine efficiently:
- First, go to Cricut.com/setup.
- And make sure you have Bluetooth enabled on your computer/device.
Is It Necessary to Have Cartridges For Cricut Explore 3?
No, it is not necessary. Cartridges (image sets) are actually linked to Cricut ID in the Cricut Cloud, and thus, you can use the same Cricut ID, and it will have access to entire content with Cricut Explore 3.
What All Can I Make Using an Explore 3?
Cricut Explore 3 machine actually works with 100+ materials. It can cut everything from cardstock to vinyl, iron-on, and specialty materials such as glitter paper and bonded fabric.