Cricut Explore 4: Features, Tools, and Setup (Full Guide!)

In the US and Canada, Cricut Explore 4 and Cricut Maker 4 have been launched on 28 February 2025 and will be available for purchase on the official website. Both are available in the most trendy colors, Seashell and Sage, while sage machines are exclusively sold in a bundle at Michaels. Let’s talk about the latest Cricut Explore model now!

Explore 4 is the newest and upgraded model compared to the Explore 3. The biggest improvement is that Explore 4 is up to twice as fast as the Explore 3. This means the machine works faster whether you are using it with or without a mat. The Explore 4 leverages advanced technology for improved speed and efficiency in all operations. Another key improvement is that it has larger different materials right out of the box. Now, we will overview the entire machine in this blog.

It’s a great deal for everything if you shop for a brand-new Cricut machine. I highly recommend that you purchase the Explore 4 machine.

What Comes in the Cricut Explore 4 Box?

However, there are other accessories that you can get for an additional purchase.

The tools that are compatible with this machine include the deep-point blade for deeper cuts.
A scoring stylus, which fits into the same clamp as the pens, is used to store your materials.
The bonded fabric blade for cutting fabric, as well as the foiling tool, includes three tips for different foiling options.
You can also purchase a green mat for a standard grip, a purple mat for a strong grip, and a pink mat for a fabric grip.
A wide variety of permanent markers in infusible ink can go in Clamp A.
You can also purchase a roll that will feed into your machine with no mat required.
A roll holder will be added to the tray of this machine, and you can add your material as it holds the roll of material.
There is an additional card mat available where you can cut pre-cut cards.
You can purchase all of them separately.

Note: These are the only tools that will fit the Explore machine. The Maker tools won’t fit this machine.

Unboxing the Cricut Explore 4 Box

So, let’s dive into what comes with the Explore 4 machine!

Before that, you have to remove quite a bit of packaging material. Since the box has more materials, you’ll find:
1. The Explore 4 machine itself.
2. You’ll get your power cord, USB cord, a mini-weer, fine point pen, one pen, and a light grip blue mat on which you can put your materials and cut them.
After lifting up the lid, you’ll find a fine blade installed into the machine.
You’ll also find documentation and materials for various projects.
This machine comes with materials for up to 10 projects, including iron on vinyl, some card stocks, and tons of different options to choose from to make various projects.
Especially if you’re starting with a Cricut, the outside of the machine is similar to the Explore 3.
The button on the left opens up the machine.
There are 4 different buttons on the right side of the machine, i.e., a power button, a load button, a Go button to start your cut, and a pause button that will pause the cut at any time.
Once you lift the lid below, you’ll find a tray to keep your storage, like pens, blades, and small snacks while crafting.
On the left side of the machine, there are some compartments where you can keep whatever you want.
In the carriage, you’ll find Clamps A and B. Clamp B is where the blades go, and Clamp B is where you can add the pin that comes with the machine. Just drop it in and click it into place to use.

You can also cut smart materials without a mat. These smart materials are specifically made for Cricut machines.

How to Setup Cricut Explore 4?

Now, it’s time Learn ‘How to Setup your Explore 4‘. Getting started is simple.

Connect your machine to your device.
Go to cricut.com/setup.
Once you open up the design space, click on your account.
Go to Settings and select Machines.
Go to the new product setup and tap the Start button.
Then, click on the Setup a cutting machine option.
Select Cricut Explore 4 from the options available.
Now, it prompts you with a basic setup guide
In the next step, you can choose either USB or Bluetooth.

Method 1: Via Bluetooth

If you choose Bluetooth, follow the following instructions to connect your machine via Bluetooth:

Before connecting via Bluetooth, please turn off your Bluetooth and then turn it on again.
Check nearby devices.
Within some time, you’ll see your machine model on the list.
Click on your machine from the list that appeared on the screen
Now, you will see your Cricut Explore 4 is connected to your machine.

Note: if you’re using Windows 11, don’t forget to turn on your Bluetooth settings to advance.

Method 2: Using a USB Cable

If you have opted for the USB option, then follow the instructions given below to connect your machine via USB:

Once you have connected your USB to your crafting machine and the computer, click Continue.
It will show that Explore 4 is connected to your device.
After that, click I agree to the terms and conditions.

Congrats! You have successfully connected your Explore 4 with your device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why isn’t my Cricut machine cutting smoothly?

A machine might not be cutting smoothly because of the following reasons:

If the cutting blade is dull.
The cutting mat is not sticky enough.
The material settings are incorrect.
The material is not properly secured on the mat.
There is debris on the blade or housing, or the clamp is not fully closed.

What is the Newest Model of Cricut Explore?

Cricut Explore 4 is considered one of the leading crafting machines and is the newest powerful smart cutting machine. This machine delivers more of what the creative community has been requesting. Cricut Explore and Maker are coupled with many improvements and will empower everyone to create projects easily for their loved ones. Plus, they’ve been launched at the lowest price than the previous models and have added even greater value to each machine by including extra tools and materials to help creators.

How Can I Speed up My Cricut?

In order to speed up your machine, the main method is to use “Fast Mode,” a setting within the Design Space that allows you to cut faster. Make sure you are using the correct blade type for your material.

First, check if your cutting pressure is set appropriately for the material you’re using, as too much pressure can slow down the process.
You can arrange multiple designs on a single sheet of material to cut them all at once, maximizing efficiency.
Ensure you’re using the correct blade type for your material.
Make sure your machine is running on the latest software updates, which may include performance improvements.

Is Cricut Design Space free to use?

Yes, Cricut Design Space is free to download and use. It works with computers and mobile devices. The software provides you with a small section of images and fonts, the ability to upload your photos, the ability to use system fonts, access to thousands of ready-to-make projects, images, and fonts, exclusive design features, premium images, and projects – unlimited use of everything in the library marked with the Cricut Access symbol.

New users can take advantage of a 30-day free trial of Cricut Access. You can Sign up for the free trial when registering your machine.