Like any other art, you cannot achieve the best sewing results unless you are equipped with the best sewing machine. So here, you will get honest comparisons and reviews of the best sewing machines as per your intended usage.
There are different types of sewing machines available. It may be a manual or digital sewing machine, it may be a basic sewing machine or have advanced sewing features like quilting or embroidery, it may be for a standard sewing machine or heavy duty, and so on; there is no end to the type and features of the sewing machine.
But don’t worry, being a professional seamstress, I have used or owned a lot of sewing machines of different brands. So, I am confident I to help you select the best sewing machine as per your requirements. Also, towards the end, I have placed a buyer’s guide for the best sewing machine, so stick to the end.
Before reviewing the best sewing machines from various aspects, here are out top picks for some of the frequently asked sewing machines.
| IMAGE | PRODUCTS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
|
#1 Best Over All
|
Singer Heavy Duty HD4452
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
#2 Best for Home
|
Brother GX37
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
|
#3 Best High End
|
Juki HZL-F600
|
Check on AmazonRead Full Review |
Top 10 Picks for the Best Sewing Machine According to HSE
Singer Start 1304: Best Basic Sewing Machine 
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 400spm.
- Item Weight: 9.8 pounds.
- Stitches: 6 built-in stitches.
- Warranty: 25 years.
- Automatic Bobbin Winder.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
Starting with a best basic sewing machine with an economical price yet amazing performance, I couldn’t find any better option than Singer Start 1304 sewing machine.
I have personally used this machine which is insanely lightweight for a standard sewing machine giving it portability. Then it has 6 built-in stitches which are sufficient for basic sewing and mending household chores.
Like all singer sewing machines, this sewing machine also comes with 25 years of warranty which I found rare in such an economical machine.
The only lag that I felt in this machine is its slower sewing speed of a max of 400 stitches per minute, which is still sufficient for household use. Still, the stitch quality was great and elegant and had other features like auto bobbin winding, auto thread cutting, and free area for hemming.
- Most economical sewing machine on the list.
- Insanely lightweight and portable.
- Perfect for basic use at home.
- Perfect for beginners.
- Lower sewing speed.
- Lesser piercing power. Not suitable for thicker fabrics.
- 6 basic stitches – only for basic usage.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
If you want a basic sewing machine for mending and minor household sewing chores, then Start 1304 is the best basic sewing machine on our list, as it is highly economical, durable, lightweight & portable, and equipped with basic sewing features.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 850spm
- Weight: 15.4 pounds
- Built-in Designs: 37 Designs
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
If our recommendation of a basic sewing machine with less speed and basic designs is insufficient for your regular use at home, here is our pick for the best sewing machine for home use and daily sewing chores.
Brother GX37 is powered with a more powerful motor giving it a higher speed of 850 stitches per minute and more piercing power. Then it has far more built-in designs than a normal domestic user requires, thus fulfilling all the deficiencies in the basic Singer 1304 sewing machine.
Performance-wise, you would feel a huge difference in stitch quality, especially when working at a higher speed and with slightly more weight; it produces slightly less noise and vibrations. Thus it will give you an overall good sewing experience.
- Great price value.
- Lightweight for portable usage.
- Perfect for standard use at home.
- Best sewing machine as per consumer report.
- Lesser vibrations when compared to the standard sewing machines.
- Lesser piercing power. Not suitable for thicker fabrics.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
There is a lot of competition for standard-level sewing machines for domestic usage, especially by Singer’s MX series, but I have selected this machine due to its slightly more premium built quality and smoother sewing experience.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Here are our top picks for the Best Sewing Machines for Beginners.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 1100spm
- Weight: 14.5 pounds
- Built-in Designs: 32 Designs
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
Moving from the slower lightweight sewing machine here is a much faster and heavy-duty sewing machine, the best sewing machine for multiple aspects. As I have been using this machine as my home for years, so I know every aspect of this machine.
The best thing I like about this machine is that it is lightning-fast in speed, with 1100 stitches per minute which is astounding at such an economical price. Then it has a 60% more powerful motor, which I found capable of multiple sewing layers of thicker fabrics like denim, vinyl, or leather.
Then it has 32 stitch designs which I think fulfills all your basic sewing demands, yet for a sewing enthusiast, these are still not enough.
- Great price value.
- Highly durable and sturdy construction.
- Lightening fast sewing speed of 1100spm.
- Suitable for home and semi-commercial usage.
- Highly powerful motor for heavy-duty usage.
- Noisy at higher speed.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
With lightning-fast sewing speed and powerful piercing power with this machine, there is no limit to the sewing performance. When coupled with its economical price, it is perhaps the best sewing machine for home usage, but owing to high power & speed, you can also use it for semi-commercial purposes.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Here you can see our top 5 recommendations for Denim Sewing Machines.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 860spm
- Weight: 18.7 pounds
- Built-in Stitches: 19 Stitches
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
If you are looking for the ultimate heavy-duty sewing machine, the Janome HD3000 is the most powerful heavy-duty sewing machine that I have ever come across.
Even when compared to other heavy-duty sewing machines like Singer, it has a 33% more powerful motor of 120W. Also, it comes with a higher-pressure foot lift in which you can feed multiple layers of thicker fabrics.
When compared to Singer HD4452, it still has some drawbacks, like slower sewing speed and fewer stitching options. Still, I could say that it has more powerful and have better stitch quality when operated rough & tough, and it gives a smoother sewing experience with lesser vibrations and noise.
- Most powerful among standard sewing machines.
- Highly smooth and quiet operation.
- Premium quality stitch.
- Highly durable in construction.
- Relatively costlier.
- Limited number of built-in stitches but sufficient for standard use.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
This is the most powerful machine on the list, and for those interested only in heavy-duty sewing, this is the best sewing machine for them.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 850spm
- Weight: 14.5 pounds
- Built-in Designs: 60 Designs
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
- Automatic Thread Cutter.
So far, we have only discussed manual sewing machines, which were great, but if you are a sewing enthusiast, then their sewing features might not be enough for you. So here is Brother’s best, most economical computerized sewing machine.
What I like about this digital sewing machine is that it has a very intuitive digital interface with one-button access to sewing, thread cutting, 60 different sewing designs, and other buttons coupled with an LCD screen.
Beyond that, it has an extended table that adds a great area for quilting. And it has a sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute which competes with any other expensive $400 sewing machine.
What I have experienced is that it is not a high-performing machine as it has noisy operation and vibrations due to its lighter weight. Still, from the price point of view, its features are unparalleled compared to any other and have 25 years of warranty.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
If you are looking for an economical computerized sewing machine that offers great value for money, then The Brother CS 6000i is one of the best sewing machines for you. It is digital, insanely economical, and has a quilting arm as well.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 850spm
- Weight: 20 pounds
- Built-in Designs: 600 Designs
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Extended Arm for Quilting.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Self-Adjusting Tension System.
No surprise that Singer has appeared multiple times on the list as it is a well-reputed brand in the sewing industry. One of my friends owns this machine, and I have had the honor to use this machine for a brief period, and I can say that if you want a premium computerized sewing machine, then the Singer 9960 is the best option.
The best thing about this machine is that it has 600 built-in sewing designs, which are more than enough even for sewing enthusiasts. On top of that, it has an extended table that gives you enough area for quilting.
Regarding sewing performance, I found it to be really smooth and vibration free due to its heavier weight. Then another thing I liked is its efficient self-tension adjusting system which gives very smooth and uniform stitches.
- Largest number of stitch designs – over 600.
- Highly smooth and quiet operation with few vibrations.
- Extra large throat area with extended table for quilting.
- State-of-the-art tension system for convenient use.
- Peculiar design with an exquisite look.
- Highly durable construction.
- Might be over-spec for traditional users.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
If you are a sewing enthusiast who wants numerous stitch designs with a premium quality stitching experience, then it is definitely the best sewing machine for you.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Specifications:
- Sewing Speed: 850spm.
- Embroidery Speed: 650spm.
- Weight: 22 pounds.
- Built-in Stitches: 240 Styles.
- Built-in Embroidery: 138 Embroidery & 11 Fonts Designs.
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty.
- 5″ x 7″ Max Embroidery Area.
- 3.2 inch Touch Screen LCD.
- Knee Lifter.
- Stitch Reinforcement Feature.
If you want an all-in-one sewing, quilting, and embroidery machine, then I have just the right machine to recommend. It got embroidery features included in your sewing machine, making it a complete beast.
The best thing I like about this sewing machine is its user interface. It has a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, making it highly intuitive and interactive. Then it has many one-button functions, among which the stitch reinforcement button is the rarest that I have found.
Taking about its design options, it has hundreds of sewing & embroidery designs with 11 monogramming fonts. If that isn’t enough, this machine also has the option to import and save designs via a USB port.
- Dual purpose: sewing and embroidery.
- Highly intuitive control panel.
- Interactive touch LCD screen.
- Highly durable in construction.
- USB port to import design.
- Perfect option for custom designers and enthusiasts.
- Expensive for traditional sewers.
- Single-needle embroidery is not suitable for commercial usage.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
If you want sewing, quilting, and embroidery features in your machine, then Brother SE1900 will be my top recommendation which gives you an adequate embroidery area and a highly interactive sewing experience with a lot of customization options.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Here you can see more Sewing Machines that Embroider.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 1500spm
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Built-in Knee Lifter.
- Automatic Thread Trimmer.
Moving to a dedicated commercial-level sewing machine, Brother PQ1500SL clearly takes the lead. I have also used its rival Juki TL-2000Qi, which was somewhat similar to brother in performance and durability, but Brother had slightly more features for which I have picked it in my top list.
Talking about basic specifications, this machine comes with a lightning-fast speed of 1500 stitches per minute, with an automatic needle thread and thread trimmer and a knee lifter. Beyond that, it has a long arm for quilting as well.
Then it also has 4 built-in feed dog positions, which I found very convenient and rare in other machines. Thus you can adjust the needle position as per your fabric type and thickness more accurately.
From my experience, I can confidently say this machine is the most durable and reliable of any other machine on the list. It has a highly sturdy built quality and heavier weight that results in minimal vibrations compared to other machines.
- Lightening fast speed of 1500 spm.
- Highly durable machine with lifelong reliability.
- Adjustable pin feed for easy multiple-layer stitching.
- Free hands with a knee lifter.
- Large throat size with extended arm for convenient quilting.
- Limited to professional usage only as its price is high and lacks stitch designs.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
If you need a dedicated sewing machine for your professional work that is reliable, durable and gives your straightforward sewing, then PQ1500SL is the best option. It is lightning fast, with high piercing power and comparatively more features. However, you cannot expect a variety of sewing designs as it’s a straight-stitch sewing machine.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Specifications:
- Stitch Speed: 1100spm
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Built-in Designs: 411 Designs
- Warranty: 25 Years Limited Warranty
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
- Automatic Thread Cutter.
- 60% More Powerful Motor.
And here the Singer has appeared once again on our top pick. If you are looking for a versatile machine that can be used for commercial as well as for personal usage and is packed with features, then Singer HD6700 is just the right option for you.
The performance of the machine – power, speed, quality, and build, is the same as of its much simpler version (Singer HD4453), however as you have already guessed from the picture that it is completely digitalized, giving it over 411 built-in stitching and monogramming designs.
- Highly suitable for heavy-duty work with a 60% stronger motor.
- Lightening fast stitch speed of 1100spm.
- Suitable for semi-commercial and regular usage.
- Smooth stitching with noiseless operation.
- Extra-high presser feet lifter for multilayered fabrics.
- Highly durable built quality.
- A bit noisy at a higher speed, especially above 1000spm.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
There are many other digital sewing machines in the market but what makes it my top pick is its perfect combination of really high speed, digital interface, and fungibility for both personal/commercial usage – all in an insanely economical package.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Here are our top 7 picks for the Best Computerized Sewing Machines.
Specifications:
- Sewing Speed: 900spm.
- Weight: 33 pounds.
- Built-in Designs: 225 Stitch Designs
- Warranty: 5 Years Limited Warranty.
- Automatic Needle Threader.
- Free Arm for Hemming.
- Automatic Thread Cutter.
- Extra Extension Table.
- Knee Lifter.
We all know what Juki is known for – its commercial & industrial level sewing machines, and here it is on our top list with its HZL-F600.
It’s a heavy-duty computerized machine for professionals. It has a 900 Watt sewing speed and a really high piercing power of 108 Watts (just for comparison, standard heavy-duty sewing machines have a power of about 85 Watts). Coupled with extra wide throat space and high presser feet lifter, you can easily sew the toughest fabrics.
Then this machine has digital, which is rare for a commercial-level sewing machine. While the Brother PQ-1500SL was just a straight stitch machine, this machine has 255 built-in designs with many monogramming fonts. Thus giving you great maneuverability for your professional work.
The only lacking in this machine is its 900spm speed. It is more than enough for standard use for commercial use, but there are many other machines with higher speeds. Still, it is a versatile sewing machine for commercial use.
- Most powerful computerized machine on the list.
- Highly suitable for commercial and semi-commercial usage.
- Huge workspace with extra large throat size and extension table.
- Insanely durable and scratch-proof construction.
- A wide range of presser foots included.
- High-presser feet lifter for multilayered fabric sewing.
- Knee lever for hand-free feet lifting.
- Exclusive features – rare in commercial machines.
- Smoother and quieter operation.
- Expensive for noncommercial usage.
- Needs a dedicated workbench as it is heavier.
Why is this machine on our top 10 list?
This is clearly one of the most versatile and best sewing machines for commercial use, powered by a heavy-duty motor, computerized interface, and highly durable quilt quality.
Click Here to See the Most Recent Reviews from Other Users.
Buyer’s Guide for the Best Sewing Machine
Here is a comprehensive buying guide you should consider while selecting a suitable sewing machine.
Built-in Stitch Designs in Sewing Machine
This is an important factor that would define the versatility of the stitch patterns of your machine. A basic sewing machine has 12 stitch design, but we recommend you go with at least 18 stitch patterns in your standard sewing machine for home.
We recommend a computerized sewing machine for enthusiasts as they have hundreds of stitch designs.
Features of Sewing Machine
You must consider its features to find a suitable sewing machine as per your requirement. For that, you should know whether you need a regular sewing machine, a sewing + quilting machine, or a sewing + embroidery machine.
Once you have decided on the perfect type of sewing machine, it will become easier for you to select. We have already reviewed and recommended at least one sewing machine of each type.
Motor Power of Sewing Machine
The motor power of the sewing machine is an important factor that is overlooked. Depending on the type of fabric and machine utility, you should select the power sewing machine.
Here is a recommendation for the appropriate power of a sewing machine per your machine’s utility.
- 30Watt for a basic sewing machine with off-and-on usage for mending & minor household chores.
- 50Watt for a standard sewing machine for more than just mending work at home.
- 80Watt for a heavy-duty machine to be used on thick fabrics like leather, vinyl, denim, etc.
- 100Watt for commercial usage.
Speed of Sewing Machine
This is also dependent on the workload on the machine. For a basic sewing machine, even 400spm speed is enough. But a standard sewing machine must have at least 800spm speed. And for a commercial-level sewing machine, a sewing speed of about 1000spm is recommended. Still, the more it is, the better for commercial usage.
Price Value
Instead of the plane price of the sewing machine, you should consider the price value that the machine offers – comparative features & quality of the machine against its price.
It’s an expert’s task to estimate the price value of a machine based on their comparative analysis. This point is keenly considered while selecting our machines for the top 10 spots of the best sewing machines.
Durability
As sewing machines are a long-term investment, you must not overlook their durability. The warranty of machines also speaks of their durability. The best sewing machine brands like Singer, Brother & Janome have 25 years of warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best sewing machine brand?
Many well-known brands are producing great sewing machines. Still, based on my experience with different brands, I would say that Brother and Singer are the best brands for standard sewing machines, while Janome gives a premium sewing machine.
But when it comes to commercial usage, Juki is clearly the best sewing machine brand.
How to thread a sewing machine?
To thread a sewing machine, you need to follow the guides printed on the machine. Here is a separate article for threading a machine step by step.
What is a free-arm sewing machine?
This type of sewing machine is the when which has a suspended bed. This bed is used to hem or sew a cylindrical shaped piece of cloth like sleeves, collar, or legs of jeans.
In our review, we have mentioned all the sewing machines that have a free arm.
What is a walking foot sewing machine?
A Walking foot is a large-size presser foot that has a higher feed positon, so you can easily feed thicker fabric and multiple layers of fabric. A sewing machine with this foot is sometimes referred to as a walking foot sewing machine.
Conclusion
To conclude, there are various forms and types of sewing machines with different functionalities that are designed for a particular usage. So, a single sewing machine cannot be called the best in every situation.
Keeping that in mind, we have reviewed our top 10 recommended sewing machines for different functionalities.
Also, in our buying guide, we have shed light on the merits of a machine – built-in designs, features, power, speed, & durability, which will guide you to select the best sewing machine as per your requirements.
Hello, My name is Malinda Spicer. in my 10th grade, my granny gifted me a mechanical sewing machine. Since then, my whole life revolves around sewing. I made my hobby into a profession by getting a professional degree in fashion designing. I had learned quite well about sewing in the past 20 years. I hope to be of help by sharing these experiences and expert advice with my fellow sewers.
