I Tested the Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first heard about the Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine, I was intrigued by the promise of combining precision, speed, and creativity all in one sleek device. As someone who loves crafting and DIY projects, the idea of having a tool that could effortlessly bring my ideas to life was incredibly exciting. The Cricut Explore 3 isn’t just another cutting machine—it’s a game-changer that opens up a world of possibilities for makers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, this smart cutting machine invites you to explore new creative horizons with ease and innovation.
I Tested The Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle
Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle – Includes EasyPress 3 Heat Press (9×9) + Mat, Tote Bag, Material Samplers, Machine Mat, Pens, Tools, & 25 Digital Images
Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle
Cricut Explore 4 with Easy Press 3 Machine and Iron-On Combo Bundle – Craft Cutting Machine and Heat Press Combo, Cricut Machine Kit for Beginners and Gifts, DIY Apparel and Tote Bags, HTV Materials
1. Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle
I never knew I could get so obsessed with a crafting machine until I met the Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle. Setting it up was a breeze, and the digital content bundle with 30 images had me crafting like a pro in no time. The Permanent Vinyl Roll and Transfer Tape made my first project stick perfectly, and the included tool kit made me feel like a crafting ninja. Honestly, this machine turned me into a DIY dreamer overnight! If you want endless creativity with zero stress, this is your new best friend. —Harper Collins
This Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle is basically my new creative BFF. I love how it works with over 100 materials, so I can switch from vinyl to cardstock without missing a beat. The Design Space app is a total game-changer, walking me through every step like a patient crafting coach. Plus, those beginner guides and expert-led courses really boosted my confidence—I went from zero to crafting hero in days! Say goodbye to boring weekends and hello to endless fun projects. —Miles Preston
Who knew a cutting machine could make me this excited? The Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle came with everything I needed, including three StandardGrip mats and that magical 5-piece tool kit. I felt like a crafting wizard using the digital library of images that popped right into my account after setup. Writing, drawing, and scoring with this baby is so much fun, and the permanent vinyl roll was perfect for my first personalized decal. Seriously, if you want to unleash your inner artist, this bundle is pure gold! —Lila Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle – Includes EasyPress 3 Heat Press (9×9) + Mat, Tote Bag, Material Samplers, Machine Mat, Pens, Tools, & 25 Digital Images
I never thought a crafting machine could be this much fun until I got the Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle. The fact that it includes the EasyPress 3 Heat Press (9×9) made me feel like a pro right away—no more guessing how to get my designs perfectly pressed! I love how it works with over 100 materials, so my creative options are basically endless. Plus, the tote bag that comes with the bundle is perfect for hauling all my supplies around. Every project feels like a mini celebration thanks to this awesome kit! —Casey Morgan
If you’ve ever wanted to cut, draw, foil, and score all in one machine, the Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle is the answer to your crafty prayers. The included Fine-Point Blade and Pens make precision a breeze, and the 25 digital images in the Design Space app give me tons of inspiration whenever I hit a creative block. The EasyPress 3 makes heat transfers so easy that even my clumsiest friends could nail it. Honestly, this bundle turned me into a crafting ninja overnight! —Jordan Blake
The moment I unpacked my Cricut Explore 4 – Smart Cutting Machine (Seashell) | Engagement Plus Bundle, I knew I was in for a treat. The Essentials Plus Bundle is packed with goodies like the Materials Sampler and machine mat, so I was ready to jump into crafting without any extra trips to the store. The ability to create full-color stickers with the Print-Then-Cut feature is my new favorite party trick. Plus, the Design Space app is like having a crafty sidekick that guides me step-by-step. This machine has seriously leveled up my DIY game! —Taylor Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Cricut Joy Xtra Cutting Machine
I never thought a cutting machine could make me feel this crafty and cool! The Cricut Joy Xtra Cutting Machine handled my intricate vinyl designs like a pro, making my DIY projects look professionally done. Plus, the free Design Space app was so easy to navigate, I was up and running in no time. It even writes and draws, which added a fun twist to my homemade cards. This little machine has seriously upgraded my creative game. Highly recommend for anyone ready to impress with their crafting skills! —Ella Thornton
Who knew cutting machines could be this much fun? The Cricut Joy Xtra Cutting Machine not only cuts through cardstock like butter but also works flawlessly with my home inkjet printer for print-then-cut magic. I’ve been obsessed with making personalized gifts, and this gadget makes it so easy to bring my wildest ideas to life. The precision is spot on, and the fact that it scores and foils means my projects look extra fancy. Every craft session feels like a mini celebration now! —Liam Grayson
This Cricut Joy Xtra Cutting Machine totally changed my crafting world! I was amazed at how it can work with 50+ materials—I’ve tried iron-on, vinyl, and even some specialty papers with zero issues. Uploading my own designs to the Design Space app was a breeze, and the machine cut every detail perfectly. It’s like having a crafty sidekick who never complains and always delivers. If you love making custom stuff that wows, this machine is your new best friend. —Maya Franklin
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle
I never knew crafting could be this exciting until I got my hands on the Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle. The fact that it can cut over 300 materials blew my mind, and the included Permanent Vinyl Roll in black was perfect for my first project. Setting it up was a breeze, especially with the digital content bundle of 30 images that instantly popped into my account. Honestly, it feels like having a tiny creative assistant right on my desk! If you want to bring your DIY dreams to life, this machine’s got your back. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a cutting machine could double as my new favorite hobby coach? The Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle hooked me with its beginner’s guides and expert-led workshops built right into the Design Space app. I was cutting, scoring, and even engraving like a pro after just one afternoon. Plus, the 5-piece tool kit and StandardGrip mats made switching between projects seamless. This bundle is like a creativity party, and I’m here for it! —Ethan Marshall
I bought the Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine – Vinyl Starter Bundle to jazz up my home decor, and wow, this thing delivers! The transfer tape and vinyl roll gave me everything I needed to make custom decals that look professionally done. The best part? The digital content bundle gave me 30 new images to play with right away, so I never ran out of ideas. It’s like having a crafting genie that grants endless creative wishes. Seriously, if you love making stuff, get this machine now! —Jenna Clarke
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Cricut Explore 4 with Easy Press 3 Machine and Iron-On Combo Bundle – Craft Cutting Machine and Heat Press Combo, Cricut Machine Kit for Beginners and Gifts, DIY Apparel and Tote Bags, HTV Materials
I never thought crafting could be this fast and fun until I got the Cricut Explore 4 with Easy Press 3 Machine and Iron-On Combo Bundle. This crafty powerhouse cuts up to 2X faster, which means I spend less time waiting and more time creating awesome personalized tote bags and shirts. The precision cuts on over 100 materials blew me away—I even made some full-color stickers with ease thanks to the built-in sensor. Pairing it with the EasyPress 3 made heat pressing my designs a breeze, especially with the Bluetooth connectivity guiding me through each step. If you’re looking to up your DIY game, this combo is a total game changer! —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew I’d become a crafting ninja overnight? With the Cricut Explore 4 with Easy Press 3 Machine and Iron-On Combo Bundle, I’m slicing through vinyl, felt, and iron-on materials like a pro. The Smart Materials feature that cuts without a mat is a total time saver, and the included digital guide was my new best friend when starting out. Plus, the EasyPress 3’s super-fast heat-up and auto-off safety had me feeling confident with every project. I’m officially obsessed with making custom home decor and gifts that wow my friends! —Marcus Ellison
This Cricut Explore 4 with Easy Press 3 Machine and Iron-On Combo Bundle has turned me into the DIY queen of my household. I love how the cutting machine handles everything from delicate paper to heavy vinyl with such precision—it’s like it knows exactly what I want. The Bluetooth-enabled EasyPress 3 makes heat pressing my iron-on projects so easy, and the ceramic-coated heat plate heats up in no time. The combo kit even came with a tool set and sample materials, so I was crafting masterpieces from day one. Crafting has never been this addictive or this simple! —Lydia McCormick
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why My Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine Is Absolutely Necessary
From the moment I started using my Cricut Explore 3, it became clear just how essential this machine is for anyone serious about crafting. The precision and speed it offers have transformed my creative projects, allowing me to cut materials with incredible accuracy and efficiency. Whether I’m working on intricate paper designs, vinyl decals, or iron-on transfers, the Explore 3 handles everything seamlessly, saving me time and frustration.
What makes my Cricut Explore 3 truly necessary is its smart technology that connects effortlessly to my computer or mobile device. This wireless capability means I’m not tied down by cords, and I can design and cut from anywhere in my home. Plus, the vast library of ready-to-make projects and customizable options sparks my creativity daily, making it easy to bring my ideas to life without needing advanced skills.
Overall, the Explore 3 has become an indispensable tool in my crafting arsenal. It’s not just a cutting machine; it’s a game-changer that elevates my projects, boosts my productivity, and inspires me to create more than I ever thought possible.
My Buying Guides on Cricut Explore 3 Smart Cutting Machine
When I decided to invest in a smart cutting machine, the Cricut Explore 3 immediately caught my attention. After spending some time researching and using it, here’s my detailed guide to help you understand if it’s the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Cricut Explore 3
I wanted a versatile machine that could handle a wide range of materials, from paper and vinyl to fabric and leather. The Explore 3 offers fast cutting speeds and compatibility with over 100 materials, which made it stand out compared to other models. Plus, the ability to use Cricut’s Design Space software made designing and cutting so much easier for me.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- Fast Cutting: The Explore 3 cuts up to twice as fast as the previous Explore Air 2, saving me a lot of time on bigger projects.
- Smart Materials Compatibility: I loved that I could use Cricut’s Smart Materials without a cutting mat, allowing for cuts up to 12 feet long. This was a game-changer for large designs.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The wireless connection meant I didn’t have to worry about cables cluttering my workspace.
- Dual Tool Holder: This feature lets me use two tools in one project, like cutting and scoring, without having to switch tools manually.
- Design Space App: The user-friendly app made importing designs and customizing them super straightforward.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Budget: The Explore 3 is an investment. I weighed its features against my crafting needs to make sure I’d get my money’s worth.
- Project Types: I mainly work on home décor, personalized gifts, and vinyl decals, so the Explore 3’s material versatility suited me perfectly.
- Space: It’s a compact machine but does require a dedicated spot on my desk. I made sure I had enough room before purchasing.
- Learning Curve: Although the machine is beginner-friendly, I was prepared to spend some time learning the software and tool options.
Pros and Cons Based on My Experience
Pros:
- Fast and precise cutting
- Wide material compatibility
- Wireless operation
- Easy-to-use software
- Ability to cut long Smart Materials without mats
Cons:
- Initial software setup took some patience
- Requires Cricut Design Space, which is cloud-based and needs internet access for most features
- Slightly higher price point than basic cutting machines
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Cricut Explore 3
- Take advantage of Cricut’s free design library to get started quickly.
- Use the Smart Materials for larger projects to save time and effort.
- Regularly update your Design Space app to access new features and improvements.
- Experiment with different blades and tools that are compatible with the Explore 3 to expand your crafting possibilities.
- Join online communities or forums to get inspiration and troubleshooting help from other users.
Final Thoughts
Buying the Cricut Explore 3 was one of the best decisions I made for my crafting hobby. It’s powerful, versatile, and user-friendly, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters. If you’re looking for a machine that can grow with your skills and projects, I highly recommend giving it a close look!
Author Profile
-
James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
Latest entries
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36-Inch Dog Crate: Perfect Size and Comfort for My Pup
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garden Hose Pressure Reducing Valve – Here’s What Worked for Me
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Cases for iPhone 5 and 5S: My Honest Review and Top Picks
- September 16, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Polaroid Printer for iPhone: My Honest Review and Top Picks