Whether you’re looking for the best laptops for Cricut Maker 3, Cricut Explore 3, Cricut Explore Air 2, or other Cricut machines, this post has your answer.
Top Rated Budget Laptops
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Cricut is probably the best brand, well-known for making innovative cutting and crafting machines. These advanced robotics devices will get you covered whether you want to cut a delicate paper/fabric or carve leather, mat board, and balsa wood.
If you’re in a hurry, check out our top choices:
- APPLE MACBOOK AIR (for
) - LG GRAM 15 (for
)
)
)Cricut brand offers the three latest cutting machines – Joy, Explore 3, and Maker 3.
Cricut Joy is an entry-level machine that allows you to create custom cards, labels, and decals. It supports 50+ materials and three different tools.
Cricut Explore 3 is perfect for a beginner or hobbyist; it supports 100+ lightweight materials (cardstock, vinyl, glitter paper, foil, etc.), cutting, and carving with six different tools. You can cut up to 12 feet longer material.
The Cricut Maker 3 is the flagship product from Cricut, and it’s perfect for professionals and small businesses. It supports 300+ materials (such as Fabric, leather, or basswood) and allows cutting, sewing, engraving, debossing, scoring, and many advanced features with 13 different tools.
Cricut Joy, Explore Air 2, Explore 3, Maker, and Maker 3 machines are compatible with the Cricut Design Space software (Mac and PC) and App (Android and iOS). This software/app is used for printing, designing, or updating your machine firmware. You can do a new project on Canvas or take inspiration from the featured projects on the Design Space Homepage..
The PC or Mac version of the Design Space would be more suitable if you want to create custom designs. That’s why we need the best laptop for Design Space.
You don’t have to spend a hefty amount because Cricut machines don’t require potent hardware. A newer processor, good display, and sufficient memory are good. You can use those extra coins to purchase additional Cricut machine accessories such as Rotary Blade, Scoring Wheels, or Engraving Tool.
If you don’t have time to read the guide, you can directly go to our recommendations.
Earlier, we had to use the Cricut Design Space in the browser, but now it’s available to download on the computer, which provides more robust features.
Let’s discuss the Cricut Design Space requirements first; it will help you to understand, which features we should pay attention to the most, and what is avoided.
According to the official website, the Cricut design space minimum system requirements are (These requirements may change over time).
For Windows:
- OS: Windows 10 or later
- CPU: Intel Dual-Core or equivalent AMD processor
- RAM: 4GB
- 2 GB free disk space
- An available USB port or Bluetooth connection
- Display: Minimum 1024px x 768px screen resolution
Windows running in S Mode aren’t supported.
For Mac OS:
- OS: macOS 11 or later
- CPU 1.83 GHz
- RAM: 4GB
- 2 GB free disk space
- An available USB port or Bluetooth connection
- Display: Minimum 1024px x 768px screen resolution
The requirements aren’t very demanding; however, we have to choose a laptop with a bit higher configuration for future updates. Now let’s talk about each requirement one by one.
Best Laptops for Cricut Explore and Maker in 2024 – Buyer’s Guide
Processor
If you use your laptop only for Cricut or some everyday tasks, you can go with budget range processors such as Intel Core i3-1115G4 or Ryzen 5 5500U. These chips can provide decent performance enough for your cutting or designing work.
On the other hand, if you always have many programs open and work with powerful designing software such as Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, or Corel Draw, it would be better to invest in a more capable processor. It doesn’t mean an Intel Core i3 processor can’t work, but your productivity might suffer due to poor performance. An Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 series processor is recommended. With these processors, you can use your machine for other tasks with your Cricut needs.
You should choose at least 9+ gen Intel processors to ensure optimal performance. For instance: Core i5-1135G7, Core i7-1195G7, or Core i7-12700H. You can also opt for AMD processors such as Ryzen 5 5500U or Ryzen 7 5825U.
Should I go for an Intel Core i7 or Ryzen 7 processor?
I won’t suggest an Intel Core i7 or Ryzen 7 processor unless you have other rigorous computing requirements, such as high-end gaming, 3D modeling, or extensive video editing.
Memory (RAM)
Cricut’s desktop application is finally available now, and we don’t need to use the browser version. According to the Cricut official recommendations, at least 4GB of memory is recommended, but it’s not the only task you’ll do on your laptop. Therefore, choosing a computer with 8GB RAM would be best. You can also pick a laptop with 4GB memory, but it must be upgradeable.
Display
Compared to the minimum requirements, whatever latest laptop you pick comes with more than that resolution, so it’s not a big issue here. The screen resolution means how many individual pixels the display has.
The more pixels a screen has, the sharper image quality it can produce. For instance, a full HD display comes with 1920 pixels in width x 1080 pixels in height, which means the image you see on display is made with 2073600 pixels. If you work with very intricate designs, you should consider a laptop with higher resolution; usually, a full HD laptop works pretty well in most cases. You can also go higher if your budget allows.
Storage
The storage capacity utterly depends on user requirements. For instance, if you have a large photo or video collection, you’ll need a bigger drive to store that data. Cricut doesn’t require special storage, but I suggest PCIe SSD for better performance.
An SSD (solid-state drive) can deliver a far better performance than a traditional HDD, and PCIe SSDs are one step ahead. SSDs are lighter, reliable, and energy-efficient too.
A 256GB PCIe SSD is a good start; it’s enough for most situations unless you have extensive data. If your budget allows, you can go with 512GB or more per your requirements.
Connectivity options
You can connect your latest Cricut machine with Bluetooth if it supports it. However, all the latest models offer Bluetooth + USB connectivity.
Sometimes, if you have difficulty connecting your Cricut device with Bluetooth, a standard USB Type-A port in your laptop can save your life.
Ensure your laptop has Bluetooth 5.0+ and USB 3.0+ versions for higher speed and reliability.
Some general FAQs
Can you use a Chromebook with a Cricut?
Cricut Design Space is not compatible with Chromebooks and Unix/Linux computers. So the answer is NO.
Does Cricut work with mac?
Yes, it does; the Cricut Design Space software is compatible with the macOS.
Does Cricut require the Internet?
You need an internet connection while signing in to your Design Space account. You can design, edit, and cut projects offline.
Is Design Space available offline for desktops?
Yes, the Design Space is finally available for desktops to use offline.
Does Cricut Design Space cost money?
No, the Cricut Design Space software is free of cost. However, if you want, many paid designs or images are available.
What is the difference between Cricut Maker 3 and Cricut Explore 3?
The Cricut Maker 3 is the ultimate cutting machine; it allows working with more than 300 different materials. It’s 10X times stronger than the Cricut Explore. It provides freedom to do any virtual projects that you can imagine, from 3D art to home decor, iron-on, vinyl, paper projects, jewelry, and much more. Cricut Maker is the best choice for professionals.
On the other hand, Cricut Explore only supports 100 materials with some limited functionality; it’s ideal for hobbyists or students. You can read more about Cricut Maker and Cricut Explore here to know which one is good for you.
Can I use my iPad with my Cricut?
Yes, Cricut Design Space software works pretty well with iOS.
Now check out my hand-picked recommendation for the best laptop for the Cricut machines in 2024.
QUICK OVERVIEW:
Best Cricut laptops at a glance
LENOVO IDEAPAD 3 CHEAPEST |
| View at Amazon |
DELL INSPIRON 15 3511 BUDGET OPTION |
| View at Amazon |
| HP ENVY X360 BUDGET 2-IN-1 |
| View at Amazon |
| ASUS VIVOBOOK 15 FANTASTIC DISPLAY |
| View at Amazon |
LENOVO YOGA 7I BUDGET CONVERTIBLE |
| View at Amazon |
LG GRAM 15 BEST IN BUDGET |
| View at Amazon |
ASUS ZENBOOK 13 MOST PORTABLE |
| View at Amazon |
ACER PREDATOR HELIOS 300 MOST POWERFUL |
| View at Amazon |
ASUS ROG FLOW Z13 ROBUST AND DETACHABLE |
| View at Amazon |
APPLE MACBOOK AIR BEST IN MAC |
| View at Amazon |
SURFACE LAPTOP STUDIO BEST IN WINDOWS |
| View at Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Laptops for Cricut Maker 3 and Explore 3 in 2024 – Reviews
Here are the best 11 laptops compatible with Cricut design space/maker in 2024. We have also considered the budget range, whether you’re a beginner or a professional. So let’s check them out.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (Cheapest Laptop for Cricut Maker)
Weight: 3.1 lbs | Processor: Ryzen 5 5500U @4.0GHz | GPU: AMD Radeon 7 | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD | Screen: 14-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 9-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
If you don’t want to spend much, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 might be your best bet in 2024. This notebook offers enough muscle to handle Cricut Design Space and all general tasks. It’s packed with AMD Ryzen 5 5500U, 8GB memory, and 256GB PCIe storage.
The IdeaPad 3 offers a good 14-inch full HD display, delivering reasonable image quality. It’s surrounded by a thin bezel and looks attractive. It’s not very vivid, but it does the job.
9-hours of battery life on casual usage isn’t bad for this cheaper notebook. On top of that, it’s a lightweight machine; therefore, you can carry it easily everywhere.
It comes with an HDMI, USB 2x USB Type-A, USB Type-C ports, and Bluetooth 5.0, so you won’t face any issues while connecting your Cricut machine. With the given HDMI port, you can hook an additional monitor if you edit on a bigger screen.
Surprisingly, this budget notebook offers a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader, which is appreciable. Also, it has a Webcam privacy shutter, so you don’t have to stick tape to cover it.
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers pretty good features; this machine is ideal for moderate multitasking and gaming. It’s the cheapest laptop for Cricut design space on this list.
PROS
- Cheapest option
- Acceptable display
- Reasonable performance
- Backlit keyboard
- Fingerprint reader
- Sweet battery life
- Easy to carry
- Upgradable
- USB C port available
CONS
- One RAM is soldered
- Average speakers
2. Dell Inspiron 15 3511 (Budget Laptop for Cricut Design Space)
Weight: 3.82 lbs | Processor: i5-1035G1 @3.6GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 12GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch touch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 9-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Packed with a 10th Gen Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor, 12GB memory, and 256GB faster PCIe SSD Dell Inspiron 15 3511 is an excellent laptop in the budget range. This notebook meets your Cricut Design Space criteria and won’t disappoint you.
This notebook is slim and somewhat lightweight, making it ideal for carrying around. The 15.6-inch touchscreen is supported by full HD resolution and anti-glare coating that can deliver fine picture quality. However, the touchscreen without a convertible design I don’t consider much helpful.
There is no backlit keyboard, fingerprint reader, and USB Type-C on this laptop, and it isn’t very pleasant. However, it has all general ports such as USB Type-A, HDMI, headphone jack, and Bluetooth, which are crucial for us.
Dell Inspiron 15 3511 offers around 9 hours of battery life on mix usage, which isn’t bad for this pricing. Also, It comes with Windows 11 Home to ensure the latest features.
If you are looking for a budget notebook for working with your Cricut Maker or Explore, Inspiron 15 2511 could be a viable option.
PROS
- Budget Price
- Good quality touchscreen
- Nice performance
- Available with different configuration
- Great upgradable design
- Impressive battery life
CONS
- Slightly heavy
- No USB Type-C
- No fingerprint reader
- Keyboard without backlit
3. HP Envy X360 (Budget 2-in-1 Laptop for Cricut Maker in 2024)
Weight: 4.2 lbs | Processor: i5-1135G7 @4.2GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch touch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Usually, 2-in-1 laptops are very costly, especially regarding good performance. The HP Envy X360 is surprisingly an affordable machine that features a convertible design. The main advantage of a 2-in-1 model is that you can directly work on the screen with your projects more efficiently.
The HP Envy X360 offers a beautiful 15.6-inch full HD touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Glass NBT protection. The picture quality isn’t the best, but it’s excellent for this price.
Under the hood, it has an Intel Core i5-1135G7 CPU, 8GB memory, and 256GB SSD storage, pretty enough for our Cricut work. You can also use this laptop for some mild gaming and other general tasks.
The HP Envy X360 offers 2x USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and HDMI ports, allowing connecting to an external display and other devices. Its USB Type-C supports DisplayPort and USB Power Delivery features. Also, it has Bluetooth 5 and Wi-Fi 6 combo for faster connectivity.
It features a sweet battery life with HP Fast Charge technology and goes from 0-50% in approximately 45 minutes, which is not bad!
If you’re looking for a convertible laptop for your Designing work that doesn’t make a giant hole in your pocket, you can consider the HP Envy X360.
PROS
- Great price
- Touchscreen
- Elegant convertible design
- Good performance
- Upgradable
- Ideal battery life and HP Fast Charge support
- Versatile USB Type-C port
- Fingerprint reader and Backlit keyboard
CONS
- A bit heavy
- It comes with some bloatware
4. ASUS VivoBook 15 (Budget Laptop with Fantastic Display)
Weight: 3.97 lbs | Processor: i5-1135G7 @4.2GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 12GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch OLED , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 7-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
The previous recommendations offer great value, but why should you choose Asus VivoBook 15 over them? The answer is simple if you’re looking for an exquisite display quality with all the latest features, the Asus VivoBook 15 is for you.
In terms of performance, this machine is approximately similar to the previous HP Envy x360 because the same Intel i5-1135G7 processor powers them. However, it offers extra 12GB memory and 512GB PCIe SSD storage.
The display quality is undoubtedly superb of this machine. It features a 15.6-inch full HD OLED panel with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and 600 nits HDR brightness. The display doesn’t just deliver ultra-sharp and highly accurate vivid image quality, but also it’s good for the eyes because it emits 70% less harmful blue light.
It has USB Type-C, 3x USB Type-A, and HDMI ports which are sufficient for our use. Also, a backlit keyboard and fingerprint support can be seen here. With the Windows Hello and fingerprint combination, you can quickly log in to your system.
The design is slim, compact, and looks great, but it isn’t considered a lightweight machine. However, if you use it mainly on the desk, it won’t be a big issue.
The battery life of this machine is slightly on the lower side; however, it’s not a deal breaker while considering its other features for this price.
Overall, the Asus VivoBook 15 is another reliable laptop for the Cricut Explore or Maker machine on a budget, which offers solid performance and a stunning display.
PROS
- Slim and compact design
- Stunning full HD OLED display
- Good performance
- USB Type-C port
- Fingerprint reader
- Backlit keyboard
- Upgradable Design
CONS
- Slightly on the heavy side
- Average battery life
- One RAM is soldered
5. Lenovo Yoga 7i (Best Budget Convertible Notebook for Cricut Machines)
Weight: 4.18 lbs | Processor: i5-1135G7 @4.2GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch touch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 14-hours | OS: Windows 10 Home
We already have an HP x360 2-in-1 budget notebook on this list; then why should we consider it? It’s a fair question!
The Lenovo Yoga 7i offers the same performance as the HP x360. However, there are some better features that justify the price and make it the best budget laptop for Cricut Maker.
First, it’s equipped with a higher quality 15.6-inch full HD IPS touchscreen which supports Dolby Vision HDR 400, 100% sRGB color gamut, and 400 nits peak brightness. The picture quality is terrific. Whether you’re using it for image editing, video playback, or gaming, it fits well with all scenarios.
Second, its battery life is far better than the HP x360; even it’s pretty close to the LG Gram, which is the backup king.
It has 2x Thunderbolt 4 ports, another highlight of this model, providing the fastest and most versatile connectivity solution. It also has 2x USB Type-A ports for general connectivity. The HDMI port is missing here, so if you need to connect an external display, it should be Thunderbolt port supported, or you’ll need to purchase an adapter. The fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard are also available.
However, it has everything we need to work with our Cricut machine.
The Lenovo Yoga 7i is probably the best 2-in-1 notebook for Cricut Maker 3 in 2024 because it features snappy performance, a versatile design, incredible battery life, and the latest features.
PROS
- Highly color accurate dazzling touchscreen
- Impressive performance
- Sleek design
- 2x Thunderbolt 4
- Fingerprint reader
- Backlit keyboard
- All-day battery life
- Upgradable storage
CONS
- No HDMI
- Soldered RAM
6. LG gram 15 (Best Budget Laptop for Cricut Maker in 2024)
Weight: 2.47 lbs | Processor: i5-1135G7 @4.2GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 17-hours | OS: Windows 11
The LG Gram series is well-known for its feather-like laptop and marathon battery life. If you hold it for the first time, you might surprise.
I am talking about the LG Gram 15, and it’s a full-size laptop packed with a 15.6-inch full HD screen, which isn’t unique. But, its weight is under 2.5 pounds. Can you believe that; it feels like a dummy notebook when you’ll hold it. Additionally, it can deliver around 17+ hours of whopping backup on web browsing, quite fascinating, isn’t it?
It’s not just a lightweight machine but also quite portable thanks to its narrow bezel and slim design.
Don’t underestimate its performance because it’s powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7, 16GB memory, and 512GB PCIe solid-state drive. It can provide stable and robust processing power even with multitasking.
It has a 3x USB Type-A, HDMI, and USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 3) port. It’s worth mentioning here that this single USB Type-C supports 5K display output, high-speed data transfer, and charging simultaneously.
Weighting under 2.5 lbs doesn’t mean LG 15 is delicate; this buddy has passed seven industry-standard durability tests to prove its military-level durability. It’s made of premium nano carbon magnesium whole metal body, which is more stringent and remains remarkably light.
This buddy features a fingerprint reader, which allows one-touch login with Windows Hello; it’s very convenient. Also, it has a brighter backlit keyboard if you work late at night.
If you’re looking for the best budget laptop for Cricut Design Space, look no further, LG Gram is the best choice.
PROS
- Lightest and portable
- Gorgeous display
- Most extended battery life
- Reliable performance
- Military-grade durability
- Upgradable storage
- Thunderbolt 3
- Backlit keyboard
- Fingerprint reader
CONS
- Somewhat costly
- Soldered RAM
7. Asus ZenBook 13 (Most Portable Notebook for Cricut Design Space)
Weight: 2.51 lbs | Processor: Ryzen 7 5700U @4.3GHz | GPU: AMD Radeon | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 13.3-inch OLED , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 16-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
If you often work on the road and are looking for a portable and potent notebook, the Asus ZenBook 13 could be a perfect option.
This compact laptop features a 13.3-inch full HD OLED display with 100% DCP-P3 color gamut, 550 nits brightness, and HDR True Black 500. It can deliver vivid and vibrant images. Also, you can use it outdoors without any issues.
Asus is well-known for taking risks and introducing new designs to its gadgets. This laptop is an example; its touchpad also works as a numeric keypad. How cool is that!
The all-metal body with a compact design ensures the utmost durability and portability. It’s approximately weight same as the LG Gram 15.
The battery life of ZenBook 13 is also competitive with the LG Gram 15, which can last around 16 hours. Also, it supports fast charging and can achieve 60% within 49 minutes.
In the performance department, the Asus 13 is fueled with the AMD Ryzen 7 5700U processor paired with 8GB memory and 512GB ultra-fast PCIe SSD. Whether working with multiple chrome tabs or several applications, this buddy can maintain a snappy performance.
On both sides, it has 2x USB Type-C, HDMI, and USB Type-A ports; this department has no problem.
The only problem with compact and slim laptops like this is that you can’t upgrade them. You may replace the NVMe storage (there is only a PCIe slot), but the RAM is soldered on the motherboard. You have to think before making your decision. However, as you’re going to work with the Cricut machine and designing software, it’s pretty enough specs, and you’ll rarely need to go above that.
The ZenBook 13 has an IR camera that supports Windows Hello for faster login. That’s not just a keyboard that supports backlit but also the touchpad because it works as NumberPad.
This notebook has earned the Military Grade durability badge MLD-STD-810H and passed several torturing tests.
Asus ZenBook 13 is one of the few laptops packed with versatile features and performance in a tiny shell.
PROS
- Lightweight and most compact
- Excellent performance
- Vibrant full HD OLED display
- IR Camera
- Marathon battery life
- Solid build
- Backlit keyboard
- Innovative design
CONS
- Soldered RAM
- Hard to upgrade
- A bit expensive
8. Acer Predator Helios 300 (Most Powerful Laptop for Cricut Maker)
Weight: 5..51 lbs | Processor: i7-11800H @4.6GHz | GPU: RTX 3060 6GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe + Extra slot | Screen: 15.6-inch 144Hz , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 6-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
It doesn’t matter how heavy a multi-tasker you are and which programs you run; the Acer Predator Helios 300 can fulfill your requirements easily.
This beast comes with the Intel Core i7-11800H Octa-Core CPU, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD storage, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GPU. It can run any latest games and handle editing, designing, or whatever you want.
The Predator 300 accompanies a full HD 15.6-inch display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The picture quality is equally suitable for work and entertainment.
The only annoying thing about this beast is that it has a cumbersome and thicker body, which is certainly not ideal for carrying. However, if you’re looking for a desktop replacement machine, the Predator 300 might be worth a shot.
There is no compromise in the connectivity option. The Acer 300 offers a USB Type-C, HDMI, 3x USB Type-A, and LAN port, along with a headphone jack and SD card reader.
It’s a gaming notebook; therefore, you can’t expect a good battery life, but there is no settlement in the performance, that’s sure.
If you edit videos, play games, or do some graphics-heavy tasks along with your Cricut designing, Acer Predator Helios 300 could be a solid choice.
PROS
- Top-notch performance
- Sturdy build quality with metal chassis
- Extensive connectivity options
- Robust graphics processing
- Excellent display quality
- Great price for the features
- Efficient cooling mechanism with dual-fan technology
- RGB backlit keyboard, USB Type-C
- Easy to upgrade design
CONS
- Inferior battery life
- Cumbersome and thick
9. ASUS ROG Flow Z13 (Robust Laptop with Detachable Design)
Weight: 2.60 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7 GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 4GB | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 13.4-inch , 1920 x 1200 | Battery Life: 6-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Convertible laptops are great, but due to that attached keyboard all the time, you can’t get a “pure” tablet experience; it also makes them heavy. On the other hand, with the detachable notebook, you can work unboundedly. If you use your laptop for drawing, sketching, gaming, or taking notes, ASUS ROG Flow Z13 would be a perfect choice.
The ASUS ROG Flow Z13 offers a 13.4-inch multitouch full HD IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB color gamut. It has vibrant and dazzling picture quality.
For performance sake, the ASUS ROG Flow Z13 is packed with the Intel Core i7-12700H, 16GB memory, and 512GB PCIe SSD. You won’t believe this compact machine is filled with a robust Nvidia RTX 3050 dedicated GPU; therefore, it won’t deny from heavy gaming.
Despite having that compact and slim design, Rog Flow Z13 supports a USB Type-C, Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-A, and ROG XG Mobile Interface ports. You can connect everything you want, from a mouse to a high-resolution monitor. Another exciting thing is that you can boost the graphics power and port selection with the XG Mobile external GPU dock.
The best thing about this machine is the utmost portability clubbed with insane performance; it only has 2.60 lbs weight, which is perfect for those who often work on the go. Its battery life isn’t very admirable, but that’s obvious from its slim design and high-end configuration.
If you’re looking for a robust and handy laptop that also serves as a tablet, Asus ROG Glow Z13 is a solid choice.
PROS
- Detachable design
- Gorgeous 13.5-inch FHD+ display
- Brilliant performance
- Thunderbolt 4
- Handy design
- Backlit keyboard
CONS
- Not upgradable
- Expensive
- Mediocre battery life
10. Apple MacBook Air (Most Premium and Reliable Notebook for Cricut)
Weight: 2.75 lbs | Processor: Apple M2 | GPU: integrated | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 512 GB SSD | Screen: 13.6-inch , 2560 x 1664 | Battery Life: 15-hours | OS: macOS
Some of our readers asked: Does a MacBook work with the Cricut cutting machine?
Cricut Design Space software works with Windows, Android, iOS, and macOS. So we are in the safe zone and can choose a MacBook, but which model is good?
While considering the Cricut Design software requirements, MacBook Air would be pretty enough. It can deliver reliable performance, even working with multiple programs. However, if you’re looking for higher-graphics processing, the MacBook Pro is recommended.
The MacBook Air is very lightweight, durable, and compact, which makes it perfect for travelers. The performance is also incredible as it features an Apple M2 chip with 8GB memory and 512GB PCIe SSD.
Touch ID and Magic Keyboard can make your computing experience smooth. Also, with the full HD FaceTime camera, Three-mic array, and Four speaker sound, you can experience the richest video calling experience.
MacBook Air only has two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and you must purchase a Hub or adapter for connecting other devices.
The Air is finally available with the Liquid Retina display, which supports P3 wide color, 500 nits of brightness, and True Tone Technology; therefore, there is no doubt about the image quality and color accuracy. Additionally, it has a narrow bezel that looks gorgeous.
Whether we discuss durability, performance, or portability, the MacBook Air won’t disappoint you. This M2 model offers 15 hours of extensive battery life which is exceptional.
PROS
- Compact, portable and reliable
- Fantastic Liquid Retina Display
- Snappy performance
- Outstanding battery life
- Top-notch security
- 2x Thunderbolt 4
CONS
- Very expensive
- Lack of ports, and you might need an adapter for connecting unsupported devices
11. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio (Premium Windows Notebook for Cricut Maker)
Weight: 4.0 lbs | Processor: i7-11370H @4.8 GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 Ti 4GB | Memory: 16 /32 GB | Storage: 512GB – 2TB NVMe SSD | Screen: 14.4-inch touch , 2400 x 1600 | Battery Life: 10.5-hours | OS: Windows 11
I won’t suggest an expensive, premium laptop just for working with the Cricut cutting machine. It’s only recommended for advanced users who need higher computational power without compromising portability.
The best thing about the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is that it’s available in several configurations. If you don’t have rigorous requirements, you can opt for its Intel Core i5 model, which would be more than enough for designing and Cricut work.
The flagship model of Surface Laptop Studio offers Intel Core i7-11370H, 32GB memory, 2TB SSD storage, and RTX 3050 Ti 4GB dedicated GPU.
This notebook comes with a 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow display and supports 2400 x 1600 pixels of resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 10-point multitouch. You can use this buddy for gaming, work, study, or entertainment; it can play all roles wisely.
The same problem that we have with the MacBook Air also exists here. It only offers a 2x Thunderbolt 4 with a Surface Connect port; therefore, you have to purchase an adapter for connecting some other devices.
Whether we talk about performance, display quality, portability, durability, or battery life, the Microsoft Surface laptop Studio won’t disappoint you; however, it’s a premium notebook.
PROS
- Innovative 2-in-1 design
- Premium quality PixelSense Flow display+
- Best performance
- Available with several configurations
- Longer battery life
- Durable and compact
CONS
- Very expensive
- A limited number of ports
Best Laptops for Cricut Maker 3 and Explore 3 in 2024
We have mostly suggested budget laptops for Cricut Design Space because it’s not very demanding software. You can choose as per your requirement whether you need a convertible, lightweight, gaming, or long-lasting machine; this list will get you covered.
Let me repeat; whether you’re looking for the best computer for Cricut Explore Air 2, Cricut Explore 3, or Cricut Maker 3, the requirements are the same because they work on the same software Cricut Design Space.
Hopefully, you have found a perfect machine for your Cricut machine at the minimum price. If you still have any questions or suggestion, please comments below. Have a great day. 🙂
