Cricut Explore 3 Connect to Computer

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Cricut Explore 3 doesn’t work alone. It needs a Windows or Mac computer with the Design Space software installed on it to operate and cut designs. There are two methods to connect Explore 3 to a computer: via USB and Bluetooth. 

Method 1: USB Connection (Windows/Mac) 

A USB connection is the easiest way to connect your Cricut Explore 3 to a computer. 
  1. Take a USB cable and connect one end to the USB interface of your computer. 
  2. Connect the other end of the cable to the USB port of your Cricut Explore 3, which is usually located at the back of the machine. 

Method 2: Bluetooth Connection 

A Bluetooth connection is a wireless connection. It frees you from the hassle of wires and cables. Make sure that your Windows/Mac computer and Cricut Explore 3 are located at a max 10-15 feet apart. Let’s check how to set up this connection quickly. 

Windows: 

  1. Turn on the machine by pressing its power button and connecting its power cable to the power switch. 
  2. Go to the Windows icon on the computer’s taskbar and search for Bluetooth.  
  3. After that, select the Bluetooth and other devices settings option. 
  4. If the Bluetooth option is OFF, turn it ON. 
  5. Now, click Add device at the top and select Bluetooth as the connection type. 
  6. Select your Cricut Explore 3 machine’s name from the list of available Bluetooth devices. 
  7. If the computer asks for a passcode, enter “0000.” 
If you see the “Paired” or “Connected” option, click on it to finalize your Bluetooth connection. 

Mac: 

  1. Go to the Apple menu and select System Settings (or System Preferences). 
  2. Select the Bluetooth option under the System Settings
  3. Confirm if the Bluetooth option is ON on your Mac.  
  4. Next, select your Cricut Explore 3 from the list of available devices. 
  5. If a passcode is asked, simply put “0000” and the devices will connect. 
That’s how you can connect your Cricut Explore 3 to a Mac computer. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I Need Design Space to Connect My Cricut Explore 3 to My PC?

No, you don’t need the Design Space to connect. However, if you want to completely set up your machine on the computer, you need this software. For instance, if you want to design projects, you have to install Design Space. But for the general connection, you don’t need it.

How Can I Connect My Cricut Explore 3 to an iOS?

Check out the steps below to connect the machine to an iOS device: 

  1. Ensure that your machine is powered on. 
  2. Go to the Settings on your iOS device. 
  3. Now, select Bluetooth from the Settings menu. 
  4. Enable Bluetooth on the phone and let it scan your machine. 
  5. Once it recognizes your machine, the phone will say Connected. 
Can I Also Connect My Cricut Explore 3 to a Chromebook?

No, you can’t connect this DIY tool to a Chromebook. Design Space, the official Cricut’s software, is only compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Apart from these systems, it can’t connect to any other operating device.