If you are new to Cricut cutting machines you may be wondering which is the better machine – whether you should pick the Cricut Joy vs Cricut Maker 3.
You might also be wondering if the Maker 3 is worth the extra money (and why it costs so much more than the Joy).
Don't have time to read the full article?
THE BEST CUTTER TO BUY – MAKER 3
The Maker 3 is truly the best cutter on the market, offering unparalleled versatility and precision.
There is a reason why it is so much more expensive, and that is because it can cut over 300+ materials in comparison to the 50+ that the Joy can cut.
It also has much larger cutting-size capabilities. It can cut 13”x12′ in comparison to the small 4.5”x20′ cutting size of the Joy.
If you want to have more freedom in the type of crafts that you can create, then I recommend you invest in the Maker 3.
We will look at both these machines to see what is the same and what is different helping you to understand the differences between the Cricut Maker 3 vs Joy, so that you can choose the best machine for you.
I personally own both of these Cricut Machines. And I have made many crafts with both of these machines in order to create this comparison guide.
>>> Click here to check prices for the Cricut Joy
>>> Click here to check prices for the Cricut Maker 3
Quick Comparison Overview: Cricut Joy Machine vs Cricut Maker 3 Specs
Below is a quick comparison guide for those in a hurry where I outline the main differences in terms of specs for the two machines.
We will then go into more detail on each of these specs as well as the pros and cons of each machine for those looking for a more in-depth guide.
My Top Pick: Maker 3
- Cutting Force: The stronger of the two machines (4kg force). If you want to cut thicker material, then this is the obvious cutter.
- Cutting Size: 13”x 24″ (for all materials, except for Smart Materials which it can cut 13″ x 12′).
- Cutting Speed: Faster than the Joy.
- Matless Cutting: Can cut Cricut Smart Materials matless.
- What Can It Do: It can cut, draw, emboss, deboss, engrave, perforate, and score.
- How Many Materials Can It Cut: 300+
Cricut Joy
- Cutting Power: Not as strong as the Maker 3 – better for thin material.
- Cutting Size: 4.5”x20′ (for all materials, except for Smart Materials which it can cut 4.5″ x 12′).
- Cutting Speed: Slower than the Maker 3.
- Matless Cutting: Can only cut Cricut Smart Material matless.
- What Can It Do: It can cut, write, draw, and foil.
- How Many Materials Can It Cut: 50+
Features Comparison Chart Of the Cricut Maker 3 vs Cricut Joy
| Maker 3 Features | Joy Features |
| 13”x12′ Cut size when using Smart Materials | 4.5”x20′ Cut size when using Smart Materials |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth |
| Tools: Fine Point Blade, Deep Point Blade, Bonded Fabric Blade, Rotary Blade, Knife Blade, Scoring Wheel & Stylus, Foil Transfer Tool, Cricut Pens & Markers, and Quick Swap Tools including the Perforation Blade, Wavy Blade, Debossing Tip and Engraving Tip | Tools: Cricut Joy Blade, Cricut Joy Markers & Pens, Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool, Cricut Pens & Markers |
| Matless Cutting when using Smart Materials. You can also cut other materials with the Cricut mats. | Matless cutting when using Smart Materials. You can also cut other materials with the small Joy mats. It also has a special card mat. |
| Can cut over 300+ materials | Can cut over 50+ materials |
| Intuitive Control Panel | No Control Panel |
| Cuts faster than Cricut Joy | |
| Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3 | Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy |
Similarities: Cricut Joy vs Cricut Maker 3
The Cricut Joy and the Cricut Maker 3 are two of the more recent cutting machines released by Cricut so it is natural that they will share some of the same features and capabilities.
We’ll explore these similarities as well as the differences to see which one is the overall winner if you compare Cricut Maker 3 vs. Cricut Joy.
1. Ease of Use
Both machines are very easy to use. As the Joy machine has fewer cutting capabilities and functions many find that the Cricut Joy is the quicker and easier machine to learn how to use.
With both cutting machines, the choice of the materials being cut is selected in the Cricut Design Space software thereby streamlining the process when creating projects.
Both machines can be switched on and set up within a matter of minutes which is great as you can start crafting almost immediately.
2. Materials & Functions
The Cricut Joy and the Cricut Maker 3 work especially well with standard materials which include paper, cardstock, and vinyl (HTV and adhesive).
The Cricut Joy can work with over 50 materials and of course, the Maker 3 can work with these exact same materials (plus 250+ more).
Both the Maker 3 and Joy are capable of writing, cutting, and foiling.
3. Bluetooth Connectivity
Built-in Bluetooth is yet another shared characteristic. This allows you to transfer your designs from a computer or a tablet to a machine.
As the Cricut Design Space software is cloud-based, you can customize and edit your projects anywhere. All you need to do is to download the Cricut Design Space app.
4. Color Option
The Maker 3 and Cricut Joy are only available in one color choice. The Maker 3 is available in a matt Pastel Blue color option whilst the Joy is only available in Blue.
5. Matless Cutting
The Maker 3 and the Joy can both can cut without the use of a mat when cutting Cricut Smart Materials.
This feature is great if you are a die-hard Cricut fan who only uses Cricut branded materials, but for many who like to use other brands of materials, this feature has no real benefit and is limited.
If you want to cut non-Cricut brand materials with either machine you will need to use a cutting mat.
Similarly, as the Cricut Maker 3 electronic cutting machine does not come with any cutting mat as standard in the box, if you wish to cut materials that are not the Cricut Smart Materials you will need to purchase the specific mats for the types of materials in addition to the machine.
6. Cricut Smart Cards
Both of these machines can create Cricut Smart Cards. You will need to purchase the Card Mat additional cost for both of these machines.
The Cricut Joy can only create one Cricut Smart Card at a time, however, you can create hour Cricut Smart Cards at the same time with the Maker 3.
7. Compatible Smart Materials
The Maker 3 and Cricut Joy can both cut Cricut's Smart Materials. Currently, Cricut offers Smart vinyl, Smart Paper, and Smart Iron-On.
If you would like to read our review for each of these machines you can by reading the Cricut Maker 3 review here and the Cricut Joy review here.
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy
Key Differences between the Maker 3 and Joy
Now that we know how they are similar, let's have a look at what is different about them so that you can understand why they are priced differently.
1. Machine Size & Weight
The first and most obvious and biggest difference between Maker 3 and Cricut Joy is the size.
The Joy is super cute and compact and weighs in at 3.9 lbs (1.75 kg). Its dimensions are a mere 8” (l) x 4” (w) x4” (h) (20.32 cm x 10.16 cm x 10.16 cm).
The Cricut Maker 3 is quite a bit bigger as it weighs 10.68 lbs (4.85 kg). Its dimensions are 21.18” (l) x 6.99” (w) x 4” (h) (20.32 cm x 10.16 cm x 10.16 cm).
Overall the Cricut Joy is half the weight and half the size, if not more, of the Cricut Maker 3.
This is quite a huge difference and will definitely be a point to consider if you are short on space and need to easily and quickly store your cutting machine.
En”joy”ed
Overall a great little package to add to you crafting supplies. The Joy is very easy to operate and works well when paired with a phone.
The Smart Vinyl is convenient because no mat is needed and it easily transfers.
If you have smaller projects in mind, this is the right Cricut to have.
Embo (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If space is an issue in your craft room or if you want to be able to take a machine with to craft gatherings or even on holidays, then I recommend you purchase the Cricut Joy.
2. Double Tool Holder vs Single
The Cricut Maker 3 can work with a lot more tools than the Cricut Joy.
Due to this the Maker 3 has a double adaptive tool system that houses separate tools compared to the single tool holder that the Cricut Joy has.
We find the double tool holder so useful as you can seamlessly create a design with multiple tools.
You don’t need to waste time switching between blades, scoring wheels, and pens! Just install the tools needed for the project and let the machine do its thing.
If you need to swap tools the quick release for Clamp B in the Maker 3 makes swapping tools effortless.
If you want to do simple projects that require only one action, such as cutting, then the Cricut Joy might be all you need.
However, if you plan on doing projects that require multiple actions – such as both cutting and scoring for example – then I recommend you invest in the Maker 3.
3. Cutting Speed
The Maker 3 is super fast and can cut up to two times faster than its predecessor the Maker.
The Cricut Joy cannot keep up or compete with the speed of the Maker 3 and due to the main purpose of the machine being for quick and simple projects that can be created in under 15 minutes, one would not expect the machine to have a fast cutting speed.
If you think that you will want to create a lot of projects at once then we would recommend the Maker 3 as you get to create more projects in a fast time frame.
4. Materials It Can Work With
Not only can the Maker 3 work with the same materials that you can cut with the Joy, but it can work with over 300 different materials.
It can also cut fabric that is not bonded (get inspiration for Cricut Maker 3 fabric projects here), tissue paper, as well as leather, cork, balsa wood, and even acrylic!
If you wish to create projects with some of these thicker materials you will need to purchase a Knife blade.
Due to the machine being able to work with so many different materials, this is the machine that takes the home hobbyist to a professional level.
Loving my Maker 3
I bought my cricut machine thinking it just does basic stuff and the amount of things I can do with the machine is unbelievable!
This bundle came with a nice amount of material to begin with but you can’t help but to go out and buy more just to have a variety.
The machine cuts really fast and it’s super user friendly!
Nene (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
For those who don't want to be limited by what they can create, I highly recommend you grab the Cricut Maker 3.
In comparison, the Cricut Joy can only cut 50+ materials. It has been designed to work with most standard materials such as paper, vinyl, Infusible Ink, sticker paper, and cardstock.
If you only want to create things such as vinyl decals, labels, greeting cards, gift boxes, etc. then the Cricut Joy might be enough for your needs.
5. Cutting Size
Although both machines have the ability to do long cuts the cutting widths differ substantially.
The Maker 3 has a much wider cutting capacity of 13″ (when using Smart Materials) and 12″ when using a cutting mat, compared to the Cricut Joy which has a width of 4.5″.
The Cricut Joy can cut individual shapes up to 4 ft long or make repeated cuts up to 20 ft long which is quite impressive for this little machine when using the Joy Smart Material range.
Due to the narrow cutting width of the Joy the size of projects can be limited to crafters.
AWESOME For Teachers!
This compact little powerhouse (the Joy) is an AMAZING asset in the classroom!
I use it to label and organize (as well as beautify) my various items within my room. This is DEFINITELY a must have if you're an avid teacher decorator!
It's compact enough to easily store out of sight and powerful enough to cut (and even write) whatever you might want!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Caitlin (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Cricut Joy is perfect for you if you wish to create smaller projects such as labels and greeting cards. Click here to read more reviews of the Cricut Joy.
The Maker 3 can cut up to 12 ft in length however just like being able to cut without a mat, this capability is limited to the use of Smart Materials only.
If you are cutting non-Smart Materials, you are limited to a cutting size of 13 x 12″.
If cutting larger projects is your thing or if you make multiples of the same project, then this capability is appealing, however as mentioned, you will need to use Cricut Smart Materials for this (and to be honest we are not the biggest fan of Smart Materials – it is pricey and harder to use in comparison to other brands).
Perfect for my home crafting
It came with everything I needed to start. ( I am a beginner using cricut)
I used to do all my crafts by hand, literally.One thing that I love about Cricut Maker 3, is how fast it cuts and how precise it is. I have only done HTV and Removable Vinyl with it.
I also like the storage for my tools they fit perfect and is very convenient.
So far, I am in love with it!!!!
Maria P (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The projects I typically create are larger in size and too large to be created on the Cricut Joy. So even though I own both machines, I typically reach for my Maker 3 instead.
Read more reviews of the Cricut Maker 3 here.
6. Print then Cut
Being able to Print then Cut when using your Cricut Maker 3 machine is a very popular function.
The improved sensors on the Cricut Maker 3, allow you to print on colored paper and then cut as well as white paper.
The Cricut Joy is limited in its capabilities as it can only draw and cut. It does not have the same built-in sensors which means that it cannot use the very popular feature of Print then Cut.
If you think that you will want to use this feature for making stickers or even printing onto and cutting designs from printable heat transfer sheets then we would recommend that you look at purchasing the Cricut Maker 3.
7. Intuitive Control Panel vs No Panel
The Cricut Maker 3 has an Intuitive Control Panel which means that you manually select your material using the material selection in Design Space which provides a lot more choice and options for material settings.
With the limited material options that Cricut Joy can work with, the material setting is decided by the type of project you are making when you work with Cricut Design Space.
8. Docking Slot
Both machines have the option to connect your machine to your device via Bluetooth thereby enabling a wire-free working area.
Cricut has gone one step further with the Maker 3 and added a docking slot for your device so you can slot it onto the machine whilst it cuts or you create in Design Space.
Due to the size of the Joy cutting machine, it is understandable that this feature is not possible.
If you love working with an iPad or iPhone, then this feature could be handy!
9. Tools
As mentioned the Joy can only cut, draw, and foil which means that there are very few tools that can work with the machine compared to the Maker 3.
The Cricut Joy has 3 different tools which are the Cricut Joy Markers & Pens, Cricut Joy Cutting Blade, and the Cricut Joy Foil Transfer Tool.
Due to the accessories and tools being specifically designed for the Joy you can not use any of the other Cricut tools or pens with the machine which means you have to purchase these for the Joy only.
If all you are interested in doing is cutting and drawing, then the Cricut Joy might be the right choice for you. Click here to check out the availability of the Cricut Joy.
The Maker 3 is capable of working with 13 different tools:
- Fine Point Blade,
- Deep Point Blade,
- Bonded Fabric Blade,
- Rotary Blade,
- Knife Blade,
- Scoring Wheel & Stylus,
- Foil Transfer Tool,
- Cricut Pens & Markers, and
- Quick Swap Tools including the Perforation Blade, Wavy Blade, Debossing Tip and Engraving Tip.
Due to the large number of tools that the Maker 3 can work with it is a great machine to use for those wanting to run a business from home.
By being capable of embossing, engraving, and even cutting perforations or wavy edges to your materials you can create more detailed and varied projects.
If you want to get a full understanding of all the must-have Maker 3 accessories and tools that you might want to buy additionally with the machine.
No matter what your project requirements, the Maker 3 is sure to have you covered! Click here to check availability for the Cricut Maker 3.
10. Roll Holder
When Cricut released the Maker 3 with the increased cutting capacity and ability to cut without the use of a cutting mat, they launched one of the latest accessories being the roll holder.
The roll holder attaches to or sits on the tray of the Maker 3 and feeds the Smart Material in and out of the machine.
When the machine is finished cutting your project, it positions the end of the cut above the built-in trimmer so you can cut your material before unloading your project and material from the machine.
The Cricut Joy does not have a dedicated roll holder and cannot use the newly released holder that can be used by the Maker 3.
If you want to be able to use the roll holder, then you will need to purchase a Maker 3.
11. Storage Tray
The Cricut Maker 3 has a handy storage tray that is great for storing all your tools and additional blades that you may have for your machine.
The Cricut Joy does not have this feature but to be fair, as the machine only uses 3 tools it does not need a dedicated tool storage tray.
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy
What is in the Box: Cricut Maker 3 vs Joy
Now that we have looked at the common features as well as the differences, let’s have a look at what is included in the box for the Cricut Maker 3 and the Cricut Joy.
| Cricut Maker 3 Box | Cricut Joy Box |
| Cricut Maker 3 machine | Cricut Joy machine |
| Welcome card | Welcome card |
| Premium Fine-Point Blade + Housing | Blade + Housing |
| Power adapter & USB cable | Power Adapter |
| Material for a practice cut | Materials for a test cut |
| Free trial subscription to Cricut Access™ (for new subscribers) 100 ready-to-make projects online | Free trial subscription to Cricut Access™ (for new subscribers) 50 ready-to-make projects online |
| StandardGrip Mat, 4.5″ x 6.5″ (11.4 cm x 16.5 cm) | |
| Fine Point Pen, Black (0.4 mm) | |
| Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3 | Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy |
Price Comparison
The Cricut Joy retails for $159.99 compared to the Maker 3 retail price of $399.99.
With the increased capabilities and functions as well as the larger number of materials for the Maker 3 you will need to decide if making the substantial extra investment is worth it.
I highly recommend bundles to help save some money. Check out all the best Cricut Maker 3 bundle deals here. You can also check out the Cricut Joy bundle deals here.
Personally, I think that if you purchase the Cricut Joy, you might end up loving crafting so much that you will want to purchase the Maker 3. So in my opinion, why not skip the hassle and invest in the Maker 3 from the start!
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy
Feeling Unsure Which Cricut Machine is For You?
If you wish to see what is the best Cricut machine available, have a look at our new Cricut machine buyers guide to see which of the Cricut machine/s are best for you.
Not sure if a Cricut cutting machine is for you, then read our best vinyl cutter guide to see what other vinyl cutters are available.
Pros and Cons Of the Cricut Joy vs Maker 3 Machines
First of all, you can't go wrong with a Cricut cutting machine and both the Maker 3 and Joy have many advantages and are suited for different crafters.
Some people might find the Maker 3 machine a bit loud. But with the cutting speed of the Cricut, it is not surprising that there is some noise.
The size of the Cricut Joy may be on the small side for many, especially those crafters who are more experienced. But if this is not your first machine and you are looking for a compact and portable cutting machine, the Joy is perfect!
The Cricut Joy does have its limitations in terms of cutting power and depth which is further extended as it is really only suitable for cutting the more common craft materials like paper, cardstock, and vinyl.
With that said you are not likely to notice any difference with standard materials like vinyl, paper, and cardboard stock between the two machines.
The benefit of both machines is the ability to cut long projects as this speeds up the time to create and cut projects which is an awesome time-saver when crafting.
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy
The Final Verdict: Cricut Maker 3 vs Cricut Joy
I think both machines are great and are winners in their own right! Here is why…..
If this is your first Cricut machine but is not entirely sure if crafting with a cutting machine is for you, then we highly recommend that you invest in the Cricut Joy.
The cost to purchase the machine is not a large investment to start out with and allows you to try out the craft without the pressure of having to love the craft only because you shelled out a lot of money for the cutting machine.
You should also consider if you will want to progress to creating projects that are not only bigger in size but also from the many other materials that the Cricut Joy is not capable of cutting.
If you do start off with the Cricut Joy and then find that you absolutely love crafting with a Cricut and want to move on to different material-type projects with the ability to use different tools, then you can always upgrade to the Maker 3 and have the Joy as your quick crafting machine. It's a win-win!
However, if you are absolutely certain that you only want to work with paper, cardstock, and vinyl then the Cricut Joy may be perfect! The Cricut Joy is perfect for making cards, labels, gif tags, cupcake toppers, invitations, small decals, and more.
Great little machine
This is so much easier for smaller jobs than dragging out my big machine.
I love using the card insert.
I hesitated with purchasing this machine as I didn't think it would be worth having another machine. But now I wished I would have purchased sooner.
I will be crafting more now as this is so easy to use and so portable.
Jenny (Reviewed on Cricut) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you know for sure that this is the craft for you and that you will definitely want to work with over 300 different materials and have the ability to use a variety of tools, then the Maker 3 is definitely the machine to consider (the Maker 3 is my absolute favorite machine – and I own all three Cricut Machines).
So how about you grab the Maker 3, wait for it to arrive, and get started crafting? You can find our full guide on how to use the Maker 3 here. And grab some ideas of what projects to make with your Maker 3 here.
Don't have time to read the full article?
THE BEST CUTTER TO BUY – MAKER 3
The Maker 3 is truly the best cutter on the market, offering unparalleled versatility and precision.
There is a reason why it is so much more expensive, and that is because it can cut over 300+ materials in comparison to the 50+ that the Joy can cut.
It also has much larger cutting-size capabilities. It can cut 13”x12′ in comparison to the small 4.5”x20′ cutting size of the Joy.
If you want to have more freedom in the type of crafts that you can create, then I recommend you invest in the Maker 3.
Not only will you be able to cut faster with a wider cutting area, but you will be able to use other features like Print then Cut as well as cut thicker materials with the use of a Knife Blade.
I hope that this gives you more information about how Joy and Maker 3 are similar and also how much they differ.
Choosing the right machine can always be a little overwhelming, so if you have any questions leave a comment and we will get back to you!
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Maker 3 (ps. if you can afford this machine, this is the one I recommend for sure!)
>>> Click here to purchase your Cricut Joy
Which one will you get? Will the small and cute size of the Joy sway you or are you going to venture into creating projects using the 300 different materials?
Other Posts You Might Enjoy:
- If you decided to purchase a Cricut Joy, you will find our Cricut Joy project ideas post helpful.
- Find loads of inspiration for Cricut crafts to get started here.
- What is the difference between the Silhouette Portrait 2 vs. Cameo 3
- Find out what the difference is between Cricut Maker vs Explore Air 2
- Which is best: Cricut Explore 3 Vs Explore Air 2?
- See the difference between the Cricut Maker Vs Cricut Maker 3
- Cameo 4 vs Cricut Explore 3 – which one should you buy?
- Find out which is best in our Cricut Joy vs Explore 3 comparison post
Our process involves independent research, testing, and reviewing to recommend the best products. Learn more here.
