Whether you’re an avid sewer or just starting out, a good sewing machine is the most important piece of equipment in your sewing kit.
But with so many brands, styles and features, how do you know which one is right for you? Below is a list of the best sewing machine brands available:
- Brother
- SINGER
- Janome
- Juki
- Bernina
What to Look for in a Sewing Machine?
Each brand has its own pros and cons so it’s important to know what each one brings to the table. Starting to feel overwhelmed by all the brands and options out there? Well you’re in luck because I’ve done the work for you and researched what are the best sewing machine brands available on the market today.
Before you start shopping for your sewing machine, ask yourself what you want most out of your machine – are you looking for specific features? Accessories? Stitches? Most sewing machines on the market have a variety of specific features so it’s important to know what features and accessories are important to you. Here are 2 important things to look for and think about as you search for your next sewing machine.
What Kind of Stitches Does the Sewing Machine Have?
Depending on your level of experience, the number and style of stitches that you need may differ. For those just starting out, you’ll really only need 2 stitches: straight and zig zag. If you’re a more experienced sewer, you may want to look for a machine with a variety of stitches like embroidery, specialty stitches and buttonhole stitch. You may also want to make sure that it has the ability to adjust stitch length, tension and zig zag width.
What Special Features and Accessories Does the Sewing Machine Have?
Some machines offer special features like a built-in needle threader, top loading bobbin, lights, blind stitching and thread cutter. These features can make sewing easier for you (and more enjoyable too)! Before you buy, take a look at the accessories included with your machine too. Most will already include a bobbin and presser foot, but items like a lightweight case, zipper foot, buttonhole foot and free arm are useful to have even for a beginner.
What are the Best Sewing Machine Brands?
1. Brother Sewing Machines
Even though there are many Brother products on the market today, like printers and tech accessories, they are a company that started out as makers of sewing machines back in 1908. They have a variety of machines, including some high-end options. The Brother sewing machines tend to have more features than other brands in a similar price range.
Pros:
- great quality
- have innovative features
- are simple and easy to us
Cons:
- use more plastic in their machines
- less durable
Popular Brother Sewing Machines - Comparison Chart
| Brother Model Name | Weight | Auto Needle Threader | Built-In Stitches | Stitches Per Minute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing Machine | 13.2 lbs | Yes | 130 | 850 |
| Brother XR3774 Sewing & Quilting Machine | 12.3 lbs | Yes | 37 | 800 |
| Brother CS6000i Computerized Sewing Machine | 13 lbs | Yes | 60 | 850 |
| Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine | 12.6 lbs | Yes | 27 | 800 |
| Brother CS5055PRW Computerized Sewing Machine | 14.3 lbs. | Yes | 50 | 850 |
Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing Machine
This is a high-quality sewing machine that offers way more than just the basics. This includes a total of 185 built-in stitches and a great LCD display to make it easier to see what you’re doing. You get all of this and more for roughly $300, making this a great machine for both home and small business use.
Brother XR3774 Sewing & Quilting Machine
If you’re a beginner or intermediate user, this is an especially good machine to own because it is so easy to use. It is also very affordable, which means you don’t have to break the bank just to get a high-quality quilting machine. In fact, when it comes to free-motion quilting machines, this machine is by far one of the best.
Brother CS6000i Computerized Sewing Machine
The CS6000i is just another excellent example of why you can trust the name Brother for all of your sewing needs. It has a 2-inch LED display to make it simple to see what’s going on at all times and it comes with a total of 60 built-in stitches for you to enjoy.
Brother XM2701 Lightweight Sewing Machine
This lightweight but sturdy machine has a system that allows you to make buttonholes in different sizes, and the LED light makes focusing on your project a whole lot easier. The single-step auto-size buttonhole feature is easy and precise, and you get a total of 27 built-in stitches to lend each of your projects some oomph.
Brother CS5055PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
Brother is a top sewing machine brand and the CS5055PRW is one of the company’s top machines. It is a durable product with a metal frame and stable design, helping to reduce vibrations and noise. The machine includes a digital display and a control panel for selecting stitches. You can choose from 50 different stitches and easily change the width. The stitches are clearly labeled on a stitch chart for quick reference.
2. SINGER Sewing Machines
When you think of sewing machine brands, Singer is one that often comes to mind. It’s one of the older brands on the market, since 1851. Singer has a variety of models with many lower cost ones aimed at beginners.
Pros:
- easy to use
- affordable and modern
- have a reputation for quality machines
Cons:
- less focus on top of the range machines
- quality isn’t as good as it used to be
Popular SINGER Sewing Machines - Comparison Chart
| SINGER Model Name | Weight | Auto Needle Threader | Built-In Stitches | Stitches Per Minute | SINGER 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine | 14.5 lbs | Yes | 32 | 1100 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SINGER Stylist 7258 Sewing Machine | 14.8 lbs | Yes | 100 | 750 |
| SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine | 18.2 lbs. | Yes | 600 | 850 |
| SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine | 10 lbs. | No | 6 | 750 |
| SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine | 14.6 lbs. | Yes | 23 | 1100 |
SINGER 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
With an automatic needle-threader and an adjustable presser, this machine offers 32 built-in stitches and a speed of up to 1,100 stitches per minute. It also comes with tons of accessories that allow you to set up the machine quickly and start working on your projects. This machine definitely makes sewing a breeze.
SINGER Stylist 7258 Sewing Machine
If you’re looking for the best sewing machine on the market for beginning sewers, this is definitely one to consider. It has an automatic needle-threader for convenience and a total of 100 built-in stitches. It also has a fast speed, sewing up to 750 stitches per minute, and it comes with 6 one-step buttonholes for a little variety!
SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing Machine
With 600 built-in stitches that allow you to be as creative as you like, this machine also has a bobbin system that is super easy to use because you can actually see how many you have left to use thanks to a clear cover you can see through. You also get an extra-large work area that allows you to accommodate even the biggest projects you need done.
SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine
The SINGER Start is great for business use but can also easily accommodate beginners so if you’re both of these, this machine is for you. There is a total of 6 built-in stitches and a free arm to make sewing a breeze so you can jump in immediately and start sewing.
SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
This is a fast machine that can sew up to 1,100 stitches per minute, which means your projects can be completed in no time. It offers 23 built-in stitches to provide you with the variety you need, and the automatic needle-threader and buttonhole make it simple to complete a variety of projects that came out looking like a professional did them.
3. Janome Sewing Machines
Janome sewing machines are highly rated for both quality and reputation. Their machines tend to be lower cost, but still reliable and durable. Their machines also feature the AcuFeed flex foot technology system which aids in joining seams without any shifting.
Pros:
- offer a wide range of quality machines
- have adjustable speed and stitch settings
- durable
Cons:
- more expensive than most
Popular Janome Sewing Machines - Comparison Chart
| Janome Model Name | Weight | Auto Needle Threader | Built-In Stitches | Stitches Per Minute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Janome 4120QDC Computerized Sewing Machine | 14.3 lbs | Yes | 120 | 820 |
| Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine | 17.6 lbs | No | 18 | 830 |
| Janome 2212 Sewing Machine | 13 lbs | No | 12 | 860 |
| Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine | 18.7 lbs | Yes | 18 | 860 |
| Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine | 12.6 lbs. | Yes | 60 | 820 |
Janome 4120QDC Computerized Sewing Machine
This Janome computerized sewing machine is one of the best Janome models for quilting whether you’re a beginner or an expert. This machine has many advanced features and accessories which will help you with all your sewing projects.
Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine
This is a great sewing machine for both beginners and advanced users, and it comes with a top-loading bobbin system, 18 built-in stitches that include a buttonhole, and a 7-piece feed dog that guarantees you excellent control over your fabric.
Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
The Janome 2212 is another manual sewing machine with a stitch-selection dial. It includes 12 built-in stitches and a responsive foot pedal that works with heavy fabrics. These features make the Janome 2212 a good choice for any future seamstresses or tailors.
Janome HD3000 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine
This is a great sewing machine considering what you’ll pay for it. Not only is it super sturdy and reliable but it also offers features such as a built-in automatic needle threader, a super-easy way to select and change stitches, and a jam-proof top-loading bobbin threader to make threading your needle practically foolproof.
Janome 3160QDC Computerized Sewing Machine
For just a little more than an average sewing machine costs, you can get the Janome 3160QOV, which offers a total of 60 built-in stitches and six built-in buttonholes. Thanks to the built-in automatic needle-threader, you’ll experience no more eyestrain the next time you get your sewing machine ready to go. There’s even an easy-to-use control panel that makes sewing a breeze.
4. Juki Sewing Machines
Juki may not be a household name, but it definitely has staying power as a top sewing machine brand. Juki is a Japanese manufacturer of industrial sewing machines that has recently started producing sewing machines for home use. Juki machines are known for their high-quality sewing and user-friendly operability, which is perfect for both the beginner and seasoned sewer.
Pros:
- easy to use, user-friendly
- consistent stitch quality
- durable
- can handle a variety of fabrics
Cons:
- expensive
- not as well known for home sewing
Popular Juki Sewing Machines - Comparison Chart
| Juki Model Name | Weight | Auto Needle Threader | Built-In Stitches | Stitches Per Minute | Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine | 25.4 lbs | Yes | 1 | 1500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Juki MO654DE Serger Sewing Machine | 15.5 lbs | Yes | 15 | 1500 |
| Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing Machine | 21.6 lbs. | Yes | 225 | 900 |
| Juki DDL-8700 Industrial Sewing Machine | 62 lbs. | No | 1 | 5500 |
| Juki TL-2000Qi Long-Arm Sewing Machine | 25.4 lbs. | Yes | 1 | 1500 |
Juki TL-2010Q Sewing Machine
Although Juki isn’t a household name, they can still brag about a best sewing machine for commercial use because you can use this one for quilting, tailoring, and making home decor items and even apparel. The auxiliary table is a nice size at 12” x 23” and there is even an LED light to make working on that next project much easier.
Juki MO654DE Serger Sewing Machine
Even though the Juki MO654DE Serger Machine is a portable lightweight sewing machine weighing at 15.5 pounds it can sew light weight to heavy weight fabric and has a maximum stitch length of 4mm.
Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing Machine
Juki sewing machines are on this list for a reason: they make a high-quality machine that is built to last. The HZL-F600 is lightweight and compact but makes a great powerful machine for commercial use. This sewing machine is a little pricy but does a lot of things that more expensive sewing machines do.
Juki DDL-8700 Industrial Sewing Machine
The Juki DDL-8700 is a step up from the heavy-duty sewing machines. This industrial sewing machine is designed for professional use. It includes a maximum stitching speed of 5,500 stitches per minute. The machine comes unassembled and may require a professional to properly assemble.
Juki TL-2000Qi Long-Arm Sewing Machine
The Juki TL-2000Qi Sewing Machine offers 1500 stitches per minute, making it an excellent choice for businesses of all types. There is an LED light to help you see exactly what you’re doing and it even comes with an extension table for those large projects that take up a lot of space.
5. Bernina Sewing Machines
Bernina is another top brand synonymous with quality. Originally designed and manufactured in Switzerland, Bernina machines have been around since 1893. They are one of the most respected brands in terms of quality, although their machines do tend to run pricier than most. They have basic machines for beginners as well as advanced machines for more experienced sewers.
Pros:
- easy to use
- efficient and modern
- innovative in technology – i.e. Bernina stitch regulator
- known for their quality
Cons:
- more expensive than other brands
- can also be expensive to fix
Popular Bernina Sewing Machines - Comparison Chart
| Bernina Model Name | Weight | Auto Needle Threader | Built-In Stitches | Stitches Per Minute |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine | 20 lbs | Yes | 394 | 820 |
| Bernette Sew and Go 1 Swiss Design Sewing Machine | 16 lbs | Yes | 10 | 750 |
| Bernette 37 Computerised Sewing Machine | 17.55 lbs | Yes | 50 | 750 |
| Bernette 35 Mechanical Sewing Machine | 15.8 lbs | No | 23 | 860 |
| Bernette 33 Mechanical Sewing Machine | 15.8 lbs. | Yes | 15 | 860 |
Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine
The Bernette 38 sewing machine is the top of the line in the Bernette 30 series. This sewing machine comes with a wide variety of functions and has 394 different stitches including a stretch stitch. The Bernette 38 has eight different buttonholes stitches and an adjustable speed regulator.
Bernette Sew and Go 1 Swiss Design Sewing Machine
The Bernette Sew & Go comes with 10 stitches and has a maximum stitch width of 5mm. Even though this machine is the beginner model for the sew & go family and comes at an inexpensive price tag it has great basic functions and can be easy to operate.
Bernette 37 Computerised Sewing Machine
The Bernette 37 comes with multiply functions like a start/stop function that lets you sew without using the foot pedal, and despite it being a compact sewing machine has a tough construction. Even though this is an affordable sewing machine it comes with a variety of helpful features.
Bernette 35 Mechanical Sewing Machine
The Bernette 35 is an inexpensive sewing machine and great for beginners with seven presser feet and 23 stitches. Since this machine is a mechanical machine the length and width of the stitch is control with separate knobs, as there are no computerised controls.
Bernette 33 Mechanical Sewing Machine
The Bernette 33 Sewing Machine is the perfect machine for beginners. Even though it is durable, this machine has a simple design which makes learning to sew easy. The Bernette 33 has 15 stitches with a maximum stitch width of 5mm.
Overall Impressions
All machines (and brands) come with their own pros and cons. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual sewer to determine what they need and what they’re willing to pay for. Personally, when I’m looking for a new machine, I’m looking for something that is user-friendly with just enough features to get the job done. It’s great if a machine has extra features but if I’m not going to use them then it’s not worth the added cost. Also, I like to make sure my machine comes with a warranty and good support in case it requires any servicing.
So, before you head out to purchase your new machine, make sure you think about what you need and what you want to get out of it. Also make sure that you take your budget into account. If you have a limited budget, you may want to stick to a machine that is relatively simple, without all the bells and whistles. You might be willing to do without some features or accessories to save some money. Or you may want to splurge on a different model knowing you’re getting exactly what you need out of your machine. While some brands are more of a household name than others, it’s worth looking into all the top brands to know that you’re getting the most bang for your buck. The best sewing machine brands each have different models, with some better than others. Weigh the pros and cons of each model, read online reviews and take your time before you buy. And remember, no machine is perfect – it just has to be perfect for you!
