The 12 Best Sewing Machines Reviewed

This partially computerized sewing and quilting machine will impress even the most dedicated seamstress. You can see at a glance that it incorporates 130 different stitches and comes with 8 different presser feet. Though Brother considers these to be its major selling points, you will see that it packs a number of other qualities worth noting.

130 stitch types allow you to create almost any design you can imagine. This wide array of stitches is what makes this a “quilting” machine rather than a typical sewing machine. To perform simple sewing functions (creating clothing, hemming draperies, etc.), you don’t really require much more than a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch. When you’re quilting, however, the extra stitches become much more important. They will allow you to be much more creative and decorative with your quilt designs.

This machine is capable of regular garment stitches, monogram letter stitches (including multiple special characters), and many specialty quilting stitches.

Different types of presser feet allow you to perform different tasks. The feet included with this machine are: zigzag, buttonhole, overcasting, monogramming, zipper, button fitting, blind stitch, and a regular foot.

Computer Control

Simple buttons allow you to choose between the different types of stitches this machine is capable of. You can see your selection on the machine’s small digital screen.

This machine is a little low-tech compared to – for instance- the SINGER 7258. Instead of allowing you to use a large touch-screen display like some extremely high-end models (which we decided not to review), this machine requires that you press buttons to make your selection. It also utilizes a “flip chart” of stitches. This chart is basically a printed catalog of available stitches, along with their assigned numbers, so that you can select the stitch you need by pressing buttons until you see its number on the display panel. There are so many stitches to choose from (130 in total) that they wouldn’t all fit into the space designated on the outside of the machine, so Brother was forced to print them on a special panel.

What Consumers Say

After doing considerable research into consumer feedback, we’ve come to the following conclusions. This machine handles heavy fabrics and multiple layers of fabric very well. In fact, people have loaded it up with three layers of heavy fabric and found that the machine didn’t struggle one bit. Still, more than three layers, or trying to sew a material like leather will probably cause problems. Consumers also say that this machine works well with elastic materials like spandex.

Since it weighs very little, it’s easy to move from one place to another. Unfortunately, this is probably a sign of a small motor. This tells us that it may not be as durable as some of the heavier machines on this list, since big motors are generally tougher and less prone to overheating.

This machine includes a total of 12 pre-set stitches – fewer than those offered on other comparatively priced machines. It is important to remember, though, that a large number of stitch types is only one aspect of a sewing machine’s usefulness.

The Brother HC1850, for example, while costing roughly the same and offering many more stitch options, is very lightweight, which means that it has a small motor incapable of handling difficult jobs or running for long periods of time. By contrast, users report that this Janome is fully capable of handling heavy fabrics and working with them for extended periods of time. So, while you will miss out on the versatility numerous stitch types provide, increased durability makes up for this.

No Computerization

Unlike half of the sewing machines on our list, this one is not computerized at all. There are no fancy buttons to push to select your favorite stitch. There’s no LCD display screen to display the settings you’ve chosen. Instead, like more traditional machines, this one relies on dials for stitch and length selection. Thankfully, these are very easy to read and understand. Choosing a letter between A and G allows you to select your stitch on one dial. By moving another dial along the continuum of 0 to 5.5, you can select your ideal stitch length.

Some people will prefer a fully computerized model with a large touch screen that allows you to more or less set it up and walk away. (We don’t have any of those on this page, as the balance between their cost and functionality don’t make them all that practical for domestic use). Others prefer semi-computerized machines that allow you to choose among several preset functions and patterns. The truth, though, is that people who just want to perform basic sewing really only need basic functions and stitches. A computer screen would really be more of a luxury than something which is really necessary or even all that useful.

An easy-to-use reverse lever allows you to change the direction of your fabric to lock your stitches in place. This reverse switch is not preset to move backward and then forward a certain number of stitches – the control is completely in your hands. Whether this is something you prefer or not depends on the type of jobs you regularly complete and the level of automation you’re used to.

Consumer Feedback

Reviewing the comments left by actual users on various websites, we’ve found that most responses are quite positive. Consumers state that this is a good machine for beginners and veterans alike. Of course, as we have also stated, this isn’t the best choice for anyone with intricate projects which require specialty stitches and a large assortment of presser feet to complete those jobs.

For the most part, consumers say that this machine holds its own among other basic machines in its price range. They praise its durability and ability to handle significant weights of material, provided that the correct needles are used for these applications.

Are you someone who sews a lot but typically sticks to basic stitches for garments or simple sewing jobs? If so, you probably want a basic yet durable machine. You don’t need a ton of stitches for fancy quilting jobs, you just need a handful of stitches – enough to make sure you can complete your projects without overcomplicating things.

This unit is not likely to break down on you halfway through a project, which can’t be said of all similarly-priced machines on the market today. Why is that? Singer chose to make this sewing machine with quality parts, a sturdy interior metal frame, and a powerful motor instead of offering special stitches and a computerized read-out. In other words, this sewing machine trades some advanced functionality for better old-fashioned durability.

Frequent sewers often have to transport their machines from one place to another. This machine’s solid plastic handle makes it easily portable. If you like, you can also purchase an optional carrying case with a reliable metal clasp lock. The carrying case also serves as a dust cover for people who don’t use their machines often.

All About Convenience

In case the fair price, upscale construction, and handy carrying case aren’t enough for you, this machine also has a few more intriguing features. Firstly, each step of the threading process is labeled with a number so that you can easily thread the machine from spindle to needle without missing a step.

Second, a top-load bobbin system allows you to place the bobbin into its fitting with a minimum of fuss. Most other machines require you to pull out a small lever on the bobbin to hold everything together as you carefully place it sideways into the bottom of your machine. What’s more, this system features a clear lid so that you can see exactly how much thread is left on your bobbin without having to open the entire thing up. If you’ve ever run out of bobbin thread halfway through a seam, you’ll know how important this minor feature truly is.

An Upgraded Option

If you like the look of this machine and prefer quality over flash, but still need a little something extra in terms of stitches and features, you may want to take a little time to look over its sister models – the Singer 4423 and the Singer 4432. While both are built similarly to this one, the 4423 has 12 more stitch options and an automatic needle threader. The 4432 offers 22 additional stitches and an automatic needle threader as well.

This machine features an automatic needle threader. Though this is a cute little extra, what is even more useful is its automatic button holder. What’s most impressive, though, is the fact that this machine can practically run on its own.

Thread the machine, put the bobbin in place, ensure you’re using the proper presser foot, set up your material however you like it, select your stitch, set your stitch width and length, choose a sewing speed, and press “start”. You will hardly need to keep your fabric aligned as it feeds itself through the machine, nor do you have to press your foot down on a pedal. Anyone with foot or ankle problems, or who has trouble maintaining an even pressure on the foot pedal, will love the ease and simplicity of using this machine.

9 Feet, 60 Stitches

A total of nine presser feet can be changed out depending on the task at hand. Few other machines come with this many presser feet. The buttonhole foot, for example, can be used to help you create the perfect buttonhole shape, while the button fitting foot will allow you to work around the actual button with ease. A zipper foot helps you deal with zippers, while a spring-loaded quilting foot adjusts its pressure based on the thickness of your material.

All 60 available stitches are clearly displayed on the side panel of the machine so that you can easily enter the number of your desired stitch into the computer panel to adjust it. Unlike some others with computerized panels, this one’s printed panel allows you to see all of your stitch options without having to scroll through an options menu or dig out your instruction manual.

Included among the 60 stitch options are seven different buttonhole shapes. Few others offer this many buttonhole options – most are capable of only one basic style of rectangular buttonhole. In fact, the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist is the only model on this list which has more buttonhole options.

Forget about having to perform basic tasks with your sewing machine where you have to all the intricate work by hand – let this machine shoulder most of the load with its decorative stitches for quilting and embroidery. Not only can you choose specialized stitches, you can also program the machine to create your own designs. Although this isn’t quite as advanced as an industrial machine that can embroider patterns you design using a computer (none of which are featured on our page), this sewing machine can still create things like circles, scallops, and large zigzags. Qualities like these make this machine special among its competition.

Finally, a top-load bobbin does away with all of the fuss of trying to hold the bobbin lever out while inserting the bobbin into the machine.

At first glance, it’s difficult to understand how this machine could possibly have made its way onto our list, given its minimal number of features and very high price. If you take a step back, though, and stop looking for special stitches and fancy display screens, you will see that this is by far the sturdiest, most durable machine we have on our list.

Made for the serious hobbyist or the full-time tailor, this Juki is built to impress in terms of its lifespan. It can handle multiple layers of thick fabrics with ease and will run continuously for hours without overheating or jamming. In fact, despite its elevated price, this machine has received the best user reviews overall of any of the options we’ve selected.

Who Is It Made For?

Without a plethora of fancy stitches and special features, it’s hard for many people to understand why this machine is so expensive and to whom it is being marketed.

It’s made for master quilters and seamstresses alike. Whether you simply stitch straight lines of curtain hems all day long and thus need a durable machine, or you prefer to create quilted masterpieces using your own designs instead of the pre-set ones built into some other quilting machines, this is the one you need.

Just What Can It Do?

Even a quick look makes it clear what this machine cannot do. It can’t, for instance, create varied zigzag stitches or buttonholes or any of those other interesting designs. But just what can it do?

Using a simple knob, you can adjust the length of your stitch depending on whatever type of project you are working on. The flick of a switch allows you to move between its two stitching type options. Moving a simple dial near the front of the machine allows you to adjust the pressure of the presser foot. The dial at the back end of the machine allows you to adjust its speed. The simple push of a button allows you to fully insert or retract the needle. A single button push will cut your thread and another button push will switch the machine to backstitch mode. This amount of manual adjustment might seem intimidating to novices, but experienced sewers will appreciate the extra control.

What Makes It So Special?

Despite being made from the highest quality materials and incorporating a very well-designed, durable motor, this machine is pretty lightweight. You can carry it just about anywhere without breaking a sweat. Most other lightweight options have less powerful motors, which helps keep their weight down but doesn’t make them very good options for people who sew a lot. The strong aluminum die-cast body, while not weighing a ton, is able to take a beating while simultaneously reducing vibrations for a smoother, quieter sewing experience.

Equipped with regular presser feet as well as specialized quilting feet, this machine allows you to complete almost any task. While most other machines’ quilting feet strongly resemble ordinary presser feet, this machine’s quilting attachments are more like little loops. Their unique shape allows you to see your work much more clearly because they aren’t covering it as you go. This means that you will be able to create small, intricate embroidery patterns without issue.

When compared to most of the other machines on this list, this Brother quilting and sewing machine has a work area of larger than average size. In fact, only the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist with its extendable work surface is even comparable. The extra-large workspace allows you to spread more fabric over the area without it bunching up or falling in strange directions. This makes large projects much easier to maneuver.

To most people, this machine won’t look as though it’s worth the price, given that it doesn’t have most of the fancy functions and stitches you find on some of its major competitors. It doesn’t have an abundance of stitch types to choose from nor a monogram setting. It does not allow you to embroider pre-set designs. It doesn’t even have an LCD display screen like the SINGER 7258. What makes it worth its price, then?

Well, it does have a few neat bonus features, like an automatic thread trimmer, an automatic needle threader, a knee lever attached to the presser foot, and a droppable feed dog – but those are all things we’ve seen on other machines that don’t cost nearly as much. So, while they are impressive qualities, they aren’t enough by themselves to justify the high price of this machine.

Built to Last

What does set it apart from many of the others we’ve reviewed is its overall quality. Instead of spending more on special stitches and embroidery templates, Brother chose to build this particular sewing machine with longevity and durability in mind – similar to the way that Juki built the TL-2010Q.

Yet it must be said that this particular machine isn’t quite as dependable as the Juki. While the Juki is built to handle thick, multi-layered fabrics for hours at a time and days on end, and the less expensive machines on this list are intended for only casual use, this machine falls somewhere in the middle.

It will last longer than any of the $80-$300 options you’ll find for sale and will be able to withstand a tougher workload, but it isn’t really made for continual use. If you are planning to use your sewing machine on a regular basis and need it to stand up to anything you throw at it, but don’t need to use it professionally or for extended periods, this Brother is worth looking at.

Unlike many other machines, this one does not feature any special abilities whatsoever. It doesn’t have an automatic needle threader, an automatic thread trimmer, automatic backstitch, monogramming ability, or a top-load bobbin like you’ll see on a number of popular models. However, if all you are looking for is a well-built machine capable of handling all your basic sewing needs, this one should interest you.

Small, Sturdy, Simple Stitching

Smaller than most of the other machines on our list, this Singer is perfect for people without much closet space. You can easily tuck it away in a cupboard or closet when it is out of use and pull it out whenever you need it. Its compact size does have a slight downside, however – it does not have a very large work surface. This means that while it is a great option for anyone who needs a machine for occasional use, it simply is not made for dedicated sewers.

Overall, this is a rather basic machine – but what would you expect at this very affordable price? It is by far the most inexpensive option on our list, yet it holds its own among the rest in terms of its build quality. Its strong, sturdy frame keeps it from vibrating even as it struggles through denim – never skipping or missing a stitch.

It has a total of six different stitch options, including a four-part buttonhole stitch, an assortment of zigzag stitches, and a decorative scalloped stitch. Three presser feet allow you to accomplish the most basic tasks. The all-purpose foot works well for straight and zig-zag stitches. The zipper foot is shaped to work with zippers of all kinds without letting their teeth interfere with the stitching process. The special buttonhole foot ensures that your buttonholes will always be the right size and shape.

This machine’s advanced 7-piece feed dog system lets it move your fabric along easily, regardless of whether it’s heavy canvas or dainty silk.

A hard plastic carrying handle is fitted to the top to make the machine portable. This means that you can lock it away in a cupboard and bring it out for occasional use. You can also carry it from one location to another to help loved ones with sewing projects in their own homes.

Consideration of Convenience

Eighteen stitch options include basic stitches, zigzags, a few decorative stitches, and even a simple buttonhole stitch, allowing you to achieve all of your basic sewing goals. To use the buttonhole stitch, simply set the dial to the buttonhole option, change the presser foot, and let the machine do most of the work for you.

Aside from the additional buttonhole foot, this machine also comes with a blind stitch foot and a zipper foot for extra convenience. Another feature we like is its snap-on presser feet design. This makes it possible to change these attachments in a matter of seconds.

The convenience doesn’t stop there, though. The advanced top-load bobbin system makes this machine even easier to use. Top-load bobbin systems are still somewhat rare. What makes them so coveted, though, is that this type of design takes a lot of the hassle and guesswork out of sewing. Instead of accidentally running out of bobbin thread halfway through a line of stitches, you can simply glance down into the bobbin area and see exactly how much is left on your spool.

Overall, despite its decent price, a handful of stitch options, and a few special features, this machine doesn’t quite live up to the standard set by some of the others. It doesn’t have a computer readout screen, instead relying on simple push-button controls like a few other decently-priced machines. It doesn’t have monogramming. What it does have, though, is a sturdy build, decent functionality, and a handy carrying handle – as long as you can live with its shortcomings, you won’t be disappointed.

This machine has a very advanced design compared to most others we’ve looked at, especially considering its price. Hovering around the mid-point of the price range of the machines we’ve listed, this Singer has a set of attributes and capabilities you would expect from a more expensive machine. Not only does it incorporate an easy-to-read LCD display and a ton of pre-set stitches and functions, but it also includes an automatic thread-trimmer, drop-in bobbin (with a clear cover like those on a couple of other machines), and much more. Its LCD display panel shows your selected stitch, suggested presser foot, speed, length, and width of your stitch, as well as a few other things.

If you thought that the 130 stitches programmed into the Brother HC1850 were a lot, you’re about to be impressed. This Singer has 600 built-in stitches to choose from. You will never be left wondering how to combine stitches to get the look you desire with this selection at your fingertips.

Interested in monogramming and embroidery? By dropping the feed dog, you can stop the machine from pulling the fabric through and move it in any direction you please. This machine can also create custom monograms using pre-loaded alphabetical designs. Unlike most machines with a similar capability, however, this machine knows 5 different fonts, from basic squared letters to script characters, ensuring you can match text to the style of your project.

These numbers are certainly interesting, but when we learned that this sewing machine actually has 13 different buttonhole styles, we knew that this one was created for the serious decorator. Fun and elegant buttonhole designs allow you to create beautiful decorative pillows, curtains, duvet covers, and much more. No other machine on this list matches this versatility.

Equipped with a total of 19 presser feet (also the highest number of all the models we reviewed), the machine will display the type of foot to use as soon as you select your stitch type. Replacing the foot is a very simple task. Like the easy-change system used on the Brother XM2701, you simply unclip the one and snap the other into place. When the extra presser feet are not in use, you can store them in the special compartment with all of your other small accessories.

Completing a large project or finding it difficult to control the foot pedal? You can remove the pedal completely and set the machine up to sew on its own. All you will have to do is press up and down buttons to control the speed, and feed the fabric through the machine in the proper direction.

If you’re looking for a compact sewing machine, but don’t want to give up the ability to do some pretty awesome things with it, you may want to turn your attention to this Singer model. Other compact machines often come with only basic stitches and functions. It’s as though most manufacturers assume that people who prefer small machines aren’t interested in creating intricate works of art.

Some people, however, have a passion for sewing but simply don’t have the space to accommodate a large sewing machine. If that sounds like you, you are in luck. Though it doesn’t have as large a workspace as some others, this machine certainly holds its own in terms of controls and functions.

100 Stitches and More

You can create unique designs on your garments, curtains, pillowcases, quilts, and more with over 100 stitches. Basic stitches and zigzag stitches are, of course, included, but what is more interesting are the many decorative stitches. From scallops to waves to gingham-style stitches and more, you can combine these in any way your imagination suggests.

Seven different buttonhole stitches, including a keyhole stitch, allow you to create just the right opening for any type or size of button. This machine comes with a total of ten different presser feet, all of which are designed to make certain tasks just a little bit easier. The regular foot, zipper foot, and buttonhole foot are all self-explanatory. There are also a handful of other special-purpose feet, including the blind hem foot, satin stitching foot, overcasting foot, hem foot, and quarter-inch foot. What really surprised us, though, is the embroidery/darning foot. By dropping the feed dog and using this attachment, you will be able to create original embroidery designs in a fraction of the time it would take to do by hand.

The top-load bobbin system makes it easier than ever to load and unload the bobbin spool. You won’t have to fuss around with the lever and guide as you struggle to see into the side of your machine; instead, just drop it into place. A clear panel covers the bobbin area so you can see how much thread is left on it without having to remove it.

Though the butterfly pattern is on the pretty side, the aesthetic design of this machine is really its least important attribute. Instead, let’s take a look at what it has to offer (even if purple isn’t your color):

Overall, this model hits all the major convenience notes you’d expect from a modern sewing machine. It has interchangeable presser feet, a bright LED light for your work surface, a handful of helpful pre-set stitches, and a few special extras designed to make your life easier. Its price is also quite reasonable when compared with others of similar quality with similar features.

However, this compact electronic sewing machine isn’t likely to satisfy a professional seamstress: it simply doesn’t have the motor or working parts to withstand daily use and heavy-duty projects. On the other hand, if you like to sew leisurely or are a beginner just trying your hand at the craft, this affordable option is likely to appeal to you.

Convenience and Special Features

There are few things more frustrating than trying to fiddle your bobbin into a tight space only to drop it and watch it unspool as it rolls away from you. This machine’s top-load bobbin system allows you to open the little bobbin panel and simply drop it into its slot. Although the panel over the bobbin is not see-through like the one featured on the SINGER 4411, this machine uses clear bobbins so that you can easily lift the panel away and see how much thread is left on it.

A total of twenty-seven different stitch options, including one basic rectangular buttonhole stitch and a handful of ornamental quilting stitches, mean that you can tackle a variety of projects. Though other options are available with as many as 60 or 130 stitches, most people only need two basic stitches and a handful of decorative ones to accomplish most tasks. Your own quilting creativity can fill in the blanks by combining stitches and sewing them into various patterns.

Like several other options on our list, this machine comes with six additional presser feet. While some others have more (most notably the SINGER 9960 Quantum Stylist, which comes with an outstanding 19 presser feet) this machine’s presser feet are of the quick-change variety. This means that you simply lift the foot, pop it off, and snap the other in place – no more fussing around with screws! With this sewing machine you will receive a regular foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, zigzag foot, narrow hemmer, blind stitch, and button sewing.

What sets a fully computerized machine apart from a partially computerized one? There’s more than one way to answer this, but the ability to create entire designs is certainly important to many people.

Non-computerized electronic machines can create built-in stitches, as can partially computerized machines. Partially computerized machines take things a step further by giving you a display screen to work with. A fully computerized machine gives you built-in stitches and a computer display screen, with the addition of built-in design patterns and the ability to hook up to a computer for even more design options.

With a masterpiece like this one, you can create almost any image your heart desires, and with minimal work on your part. You just dream it, set up your machine, oversee the operation, and voila! No more messing around with needles and embroidery hoops for hours on end.

Sixty pre-set stitches allow you to create the trimming, edging, and design work you desire. Seventy pre-loaded embroidery designs allow you to add a variety of flowers, trimming, animals, and much more to liven up your projects. This machine is equipped with a 4 by 4-inch embroidery area, allowing you to make much larger embroidered designs than you could with many other similar machines. Hook the machine up to your computer to add custom designs or download any of the thousands of designs you can find online.

Five different fonts allow you to add whatever kind of monogramming or wording you wish. This makes it easy to turn your tea towels, tote bags, aprons, and duvets into personalized pieces of artwork.

With Many of the Regular Bonuses

This machine doesn’t only offer you all of the great stuff listed above, it also comes with many of the same bonuses the other high-end machines we’ve reviewed have.

For example, eight different presser feet are included with this machine, including a zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button fitting foot, free-motion monogramming foot, and a few others. Like the Janome Magnolia 7318, the SINGER 7258 and the Brother XM2701, all of these feet clip on and off in seconds, saving you time as you switch between sewing tasks.

An automatic thread cutter (like that you’d find on the Juki and many of the other Brother machines), an automatic needle threader (like those incorporated into several of the other machines on our list) and a top-load bobbin with a clear cover panel all come together to round out the value offering of this versatile embroidery machine. Between this combination of features and the outstanding user reviews this machine receives, we felt we had to name this the “Best Embroidery Sewing Machine.”