If Windows 11 lists the Cricut as Not connected, it is usually already paired but idle; turn on the machine, open Cricut Design Space, select it for a project, and check whether Design Space connects when the machine is needed.^1^
If you have a Cricut Maker 5
Do not pair Maker 5 through Windows Settings. It uses Bluetooth Low Energy and should be connected through Design Space:
- Turn on the Maker 5.
- Place it within 10–15 feet of the computer.
- Open Cricut Design Space.
- Open the Machine Picker, select Cricut Maker 5, and choose the Bluetooth connection.
- Confirm that Design Space recognizes the machine.^2^
If it still fails, retry from the Design Space Machine Picker after each troubleshooting action.^3^
For other Cricut models
If Design Space cannot use the paired machine, remove and pair it again:
- Turn on the Cricut and put it into its Bluetooth pairing state.
- In Windows, go to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
- Find the Cricut, select More options (…) > Remove device.
- Select Add device > Bluetooth.
- Select the Cricut when it appears.
- Reopen Design Space and test the connection.^4^
Keep the Cricut close to the PC and ensure it has sufficient power. If it does not appear in the device list, verify that Bluetooth is enabled and discoverable.^1^
If Windows cannot connect to any Bluetooth device
This points to the Windows Bluetooth adapter rather than only the Cricut:
- Open the Get Help app and run the automated Bluetooth troubleshooter.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates, install available updates, and restart.
- If the problem remains, open Device Manager > Bluetooth.
- Right-click the Bluetooth adapter and select Update driver > Search automatically for drivers.
- Restart the PC after installation.^5^
If Windows reports that the best driver is already installed, obtain the Windows 11 Bluetooth driver for the exact PC model from the computer manufacturer’s support site. As a temporary alternative, use a USB connection if the Cricut model supports it.^1^
References
- Bluetooth and USB Connection Help - Help Center
- How to connect Cricut Maker 5 to a computer or mobile device
- Troubleshoot Cricut Maker 5 Bluetooth and USB connection issues
- Windows 11
- Windows 11