You’re looking for the right sewing machine, but there are so many choices. How can you tell which one is best for the kind of projects you want to do?

To give you a helping hand, we’ve rounded up the top ten sewing machines. We reviewed their best features and where they fall short. Below the reviews you’ll also find a buyer’s guide to choosing a sewing machine.

It doesn’t matter if you want to design clothing, decorate your home, embroider, quilt, or start a home business sewing backpacks. You’ll find the best sewing machine here for you. It should be noted that singer sewing machine is the choice of most people.

The top sewing machines

Here’s a quick preview of the best sewing machines for a variety of purposes.

Janome Magnolia 7318—Durable Mechanical Machine for Beginners and Intermediate Sewers

The Janome Magnolia 7318 is a top quality mechanical sewing machine for beginner and intermediate sewers. Just take a look at these features that beginners like. For one, it has well-marked, easy-to-use controls plus ruler markings on both sides of the needle plate. Then the four-step manual buttonhole maker is quite simple to operate, with a balance adjuster for perfect stitches on delicate fabrics.

Although there is no automatic needle threader, the 7318 has a top-loading drop-in bobbin that’s virtually jam-proof. And users have commented that threading the machine isn’t difficult to do. Plus, there’s a reverse lever for making quick locking stitches when you’re finishing a seam.

Then, for experienced sewers, there are 18 stitches total, plus you’ll have the ability to dial-in stitch length. The needle doesn’t raise up to down, but it does move to the far left for edge stitching. Finally, those who are accustomed to controlling a sewing machine’s speed with a foot pedal will find that the one on the Magnolia 7318 is very responsive.

Underneath the 7 by 9-inch sewing surface is an accessory drawer to hold things like bobbins or presser feet. One of the interesting features about the Janome Magnolia 7318 is that it’s compatible with some generic presser feet, not just ones made by Janome.

Janome offers a 25-year warranty on the frame, a 5-year warranty on parts inside, and 1-year of free labor for adjustments and fine-tuning.

Click here to purchase Janome Magnolia 7318 on Amazon.com!

Brother CS6000i—Excellent for Beginning Quilters, Crafters, and Sewers

The Brother CS6000i is our top pick in this price range for beginning and intermediate crafters, sewers, and quilters. Not only does it have 60 pre-programmed stitches, including 7 one-step buttonhole stitches, it also comes with a built-in quilting table. Since it’s a computerized sewing machine, it has an LCD screen to help you confirm that you selected the right stitch and its size. Should you set up a project incorrectly, like with the wrong presser foot, the machine will give you an error message as a warning.

The method for threading the machine is clearly marked on the body of the CS6000i. It’s a numbered diagram that’s easy to follow. The bobbin is self-threading, just like the needle.

Plus, the drop-in jam-resistant bobbin has a transparent compartment lid so you can see how much thread is left on it.

Beginning sewers and persons with limited mobility may enjoy the variable speed control that doesn’t require using the foot pedal. You can begin sewing by simply choosing the speed you want, then pushing the start button. The CS6000i has a top speed of 850 stitches per minute, and it’s surprisingly quiet while it’s working steadily at the pace you set until you press stop. This feature makes it easy to get even stitches every time.

The built-in stitches include ones for quilting, monogramming, blind hemming, basting, heirloom, overcasting, and triple stretch stitch. The 7 buttonhole stitches include ones for both lightweight and dense fabrics.

Brother includes a needle set, bobbins, 9 presser feet, and other accessories in the box. When it’s time to cleanup after a project is finished, you can store those accessories in the built-in storage drawer, then cover the machine with its hard shell carrying case.

If you have any questions about using the machine, Brother offers free phone support for life on the CS6000i, plus it comes with a bilingual manual. There’s also a 25-year limited warranty should there be a problem.

Click here to purchase Brother cs6000i on Amazon.com!

SINGER 7258—Best All-Around No-Hassle Machine for Beginners and Advanced Sewers

Singer’s 7258 Stylist makes sewing easy for everyone, both children and adults. And with 100 built-in stitches, you won’t outgrow this little computerized wonder for quite a while. You can make clothing, crafts, and do quilting, embroidery, and appliqué. Plus, the free arm makes collars and sleeves a breeze.

Getting started is very easy. The 7258 has an automatic needle threader and a drop-in bobbin that winds automatically. The bobbin is clearly visible underneath its compartment door, making it easy to see how much thread remains.

Second, the built-in variable speed controller allows you to sew without using the foot pedal. That means beginning sewers can use a slow speed by sliding the speed selector and pushing the start/stop button. There’s automatic thread tension, too. These features enable someone new to sewing to get perfectly even stitches right on the first project.

Speaking of stitches, the LCD screen displays which stitch you chose as well as its size. Out of the 100 stitches available, there are 76 decorative, 7 fully automatic buttonholes, 8 stretch, and 9 essential basics. You can run twin needles if you like, and program the needle stopping position, too. This is really nice for quilting and appliqué if you want to pivot the piece you’re sewing.

The Singer 7258 runs smoothly on both delicate synthetics and thick fabrics like denim.Itslight illuminates the work surface so you can stay on track even in a dimly lit room.And since the light is from an LED bulb, it’s cool to the touch and will last for years without needing replacement.

Singer covers the 7258 Stylist with a 25-year limited warranty. It comes with an instructional DVD as well as a manual to help new users get the most from the machine.

Click here to purchase SINGER 7258 on Amazon.com!

SINGER 7469Q—The Best Tool for Beginner Quilters Who Like to Sew and Craft

If you want to begin quilting, the Singer 7469Q was made just for you. But that’s not its only capability—it’s also a solid performer for making clothing and crafts, too. It comes with 98 built-in stitches, plus the ability to do free motion embroidery by dropping the feed dogs. And of course, it has a large quilting table, too.

Singer sells the 7469Q as part of their Confidence Series, a lineup of very easy-to-use machines. Just look at all these features that make sewing with this machine a breeze.

First, setting up to sew a project is very simple. The machine has an automatic needle threader, a top-loading drop-in self-winding bobbin, and automatic thread tension with optimum power control. The power controller senses when the machine needs to work a little harder, like on thick layers of fabric.

Second, there are 12 one-step stitch selection buttons right below the LED display. These buttons allow you to choose one of the most used decorative and general purpose stitches in an instant. Each button is clearly marked with an image of the stitch.

To select a different stitch, all you need to do is pull out the reference guide at the bottom of the machine and use the arrow keys to input the stitch number. Some stitches can also be adjusted for both length and width up to 7mm.

Third, there are 7 styles of one-step buttonhole stitches. One of those is a bartack buttonhole that makes it possible to stitch very large holes for big buttons. The buttonhole maker does all the work for you, even reinforcing the stitch.

Fourth, you can perform twin needle sewing in two different colors if you like. When you select a stitch, the machine will alert you if it’s not twin-needle compatible.

Fifth, there are multiple ways to adjust both the needle and presser foot. The needle can move to 13 different positions to allow you to sew right along a zipper or edge. Its height is also programmable to stop in the up or down position to help you do free motion sewing or round a corner. You can drop the 6-segment feed dogs for darning and embroidery. And you can remove the extension table to do free arm sewing on sleeves, too.

Meanwhile, the snap-on presser feet are adjustable to three heights—up, down, and extra-high to accommodate thick layers like quilts. While the machine usually comes with a selection of five feet, the bonus package includes three more. The feet do everything from general dressmaking stitches to darning, embroidery, blind hemming, and buttonholes.

The final list of features of the Singer 7469Q include two LED work lights, a built-in carrying handle, and a reverse button for locking stitches. You can mount it in a sewing cabinet if you like, too.

Click here to purchase SINGER 7469Q on Amazon.com!

Janome HD3000—Top Heavy Duty Mechanical Machine for Experienced Sewers

The Janome HD3000 is a well-made, easy-to-use mechanical sewing machine that’s designed to last for years of service. It has helpful features like a needle threader and a thread cutter, plus a one-step buttonhole maker. With 18 decorative and utility stitches, you can perform a variety of mending and sawing tasks, and make crafts, too.

The “HD” in the name means it’s a “heavy-duty” machine that can power through thick layers of fabric or dense materials like denim and even leather. The 7-piece feed dog system helps it stitch smoothly and evenly on tough projects. And you can drop the feed dogs to do free motion embroidery, darning, and quilting with the HD3000.

If you look inside the lid on the top, you’ll see an instructional panel that tells which presser foot is needed for each type of stitch. In the same place you’ll see a dial. This dial adjusts the pressure of the presser foot. Finally, you’ll also see recommendations on the best size for each stitch.

There is also a note about resetting the sensor each time you sew a new buttonhole. This fact puts a little hitch in the process of “one-step” buttonhole making, but few customers report that it’s a big problem.

One thing to consider is that the Janome HD3000 isn’t exactly the easiest machine for beginner sewers to use. It doesn’t have automatic anything, and a lot of the adjustments must be made by hand. While the stitch selection and size adjustments are very straightforward, other factors require some time to learn to use properly.

For example, the HD3000 can move its needle position to the right for seam stitching, but not to the left. And you’ll need to adjust the thread tension manually. The bobbin compartment has a transparent cover so you can keep an eye on the remaining amount of thread. But this full rotary hook bobbin has a push-pull winder—it’s not automatic.

In conclusion, if you have some experience and do basic sewing, crafting, and quilting, and you want a heavy duty machine, the Janome HD3000 is up to the task.

Click here to purchase Janome HD3000 on Amazon.com!

SINGER Sewing 4432—Easy-To-Use Heavy-Duty Mechanical Machine for Quilting, Crafts, and Making Clothes

Compared to the Janome HD3000, the heavy-duty Singer 4432 is a little easier to use. It has 32 built-in stitches that cover basic clothing construction, crafting, and quilting. In fact, you can raise the presser foot extra high to sew thick quilts at up to 1100 stitches per minute. This powerful motor won’t stutter on tough jobs with denim, leather, or upholstery.

Many of the stitches can be adjusted in length and width up to 6mm, plus you can move the needle to three different positions. The 4432 also has an automatic one-step buttonhole maker and it can do free-arm sewing. This is very nice for sewing sleeves and collars, for example.

It doesn’t take much to prepare the Singer 4432 since it has a top-loading drop-in bobbin plus an automatic needle threader. It comes with four presser feet including buttonhole, zipper, button-making, and all-purpose sewing, as well as an assortment of basic accessories that all store on-board in a drawer.

Click here to purchase SINGER Sewing 4432 on Amazon.com!

Brother HC1850—Inexpensive for Beginning Quilters

If you’re interested in quilting, but on a tight budget, the Brother HC1850 might be the perfect machine for you. It’s pre-programmed with 130 built-in stitches, plus, it comes with a quilting table and a spring-loaded quilting foot. If you buy the free motion foot, which is sold separately, it can perform free motion quilting and embroidery.

But the HC1850 isn’t just for quilting. It has 8 one-step buttonhole stitches, plus an assortment of basic stitches for basic dressmaking and crafting. They include 14 for quilting, 55 for monogramming, 94 decorative, 12 heirloom, and 42 for garment construction.

Beginners, and even advanced sewers, appreciate the variable speed control switch. Move the slider to slow, medium, or the top speed of 850 stitches per minute, then the machine does all the work for you. You won’t need the foot pedal at all.

Brother takes most of the hassle out of setup by including an automatic needle threader and drop-in bobbin. If you’re not sure how to thread the machine, that’s one of the tutorials on the DVD they include in the box. Or you can make use of the company’s free phone support.

There are a couple of downsides to the HC1850 if you’re an advanced sewer. One is that you can’t adjust the pressure of the presser foot. Two, you can’t raise the foot high enough to handle very thick layers of fabric.

Click here to purchase Brother HC1850 on Amazon.com!

Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine

While Singer and Brother are very popular brands among casual sewers and crafters, Juki’s Exceed HZL-F600 is aimed at advanced sewers. It’s a computerized machine designed with experienced users in mind. It’s powerful, very quiet even at high speeds, and operates with little to no vibration at all. Plus, the work surface is larger than on the typical sewing machine. It detaches for free arm sewing, too.

Let’s review some of the other reasons why the HZL-F600 makes sewers happy. For one, it’s programmed with 625 stitches that include ones for garment construction, quilting, embroidery, decoration, and monogramming. There are also 16 one-step electronic buttonholes.

But it’s not just the high assortment of built-in stitches that’s appealing. You can also store up to 70 stitch combinations in the machine’s memory so you can easily repeat a project later.

While you’re sewing, the independent bobbin winding motor winds your bobbins for you, saving you quite a bit of time. Other time-savers are the inclusion of an automatic needle threader, thread tie-off and cutting, and a knee lift.

If you don’t like sewing with a foot pedal, you don’t need to use one. The Juki HZL-F600 has a variable speed slider control. It can also automatically adjust thread tension for you, or you can do it manually.

While you’re working, the LED light between the needle and column brightly illuminates the work surface. It’s possible to move the needle around to different positions to help you sew alongside zippers and edge seams, or have it stop in either up or down position. In conclusion, if you’re serious about sewing, the Juki HZL-F600 is a good investment for years to come.

Click here to purchase Juki HZL-F600 on Amazon.com!

Consew 206RB-5—Perfect for Sewing Leather, Sailcloth, and Upholstery

The Consew 206RB-5 is a table-mounted, professional grade, industrial sewing machine. It’s exactly what you’d want if you make purses, backpacks, shoes, luggage, leather garments, or sew sailcloth at home. Its powerful servo motor handles suede, vinyl, canvas, and other tough materials at over 3000 stitches per minute. Plus, it has the capability to sew stitches that measure up to 2-1/2-inches in length.

But just because it’s industrial, doesn’t mean it’s loud. Instead, the 206RB-5 is a rather quiet machine with very little vibration. And it has other pro features like a table mounted bobbin winder that lets you prepare multiple bobbins with thread at the same time you’re sewing a project.

There is a cone thread stand that can hold secure 2 extra large thread cones so you don’t run out in the middle of a job. The bobbin is also extra-large.

One thing to note is that this is a straight stitch machine only. It doesn’t have the capability to do any other kind. But you can adjust the stitch size and also run a reverse locking stitch to secure a seam. And it comes with a heavy duty triple feed walking foot. The foot lets you adjust its height with the knee lifter to accommodate thick layers. Plus, you can drop the feed for free motion work.

Also note that unlike machines made for home use, the Consew 206RB-5 requires regular lubrication with oil. You can also change the needle plate and feed dog if you desire.

Click here to purchase Consew 206RB-5 on Amazon.com!

Brother SE400—Best for Beginning Embroiderers

If you want to embroider, quilt, and sew clothing and crafts, the Brother SE400 will keep you busy for a long time. It’s programmed with 67 sewing stitches, 5 lettering fonts, and 70 embroidery patterns, plus 120 frame pattern combinations. If that’s not enough for you, you can download even more from the iBroidery website. Then simply update the machine with a computer and the included USB cable.

On the machine’s LCD screen, you can do basic editing of the embroidery designs by rotating them, changing their size, or making them mirror-image. If you’re not sure how to complete a task, you can also view a tutorial on-screen. But since the screen is monocolor, it’s a little hard to tell the difference between some shades of the preview image.

The SE400 can embroider up to 4 by 4-inch designs on its large workspace. Begin by selecting a design, then loading the thread and bobbin. The automatic needle threader, built-in bobbin winder, and drop-in bobbin make this part a snap.

The machine will stitch the design parts that use that color, then pause so you can change thread. It has a one-touch thread cutter to make the switch as fast as possible. Should you leave the machine unattended, it will pause automatically if it runs out of thread.

But embroidery isn’t the only trick up its sleeve. The Brother SE400 does one-step buttonholes, too. If you purchased this machine for embroidery, you can still use it to hem your jeans and sew a quilt.

Click here to purchase Brother SE400 on Amazon.com!

Buyer’s Guide for how to choose the best sewing machine

Why are you looking for a sewing machine? What are the primary kinds of projects you want to do?

For example, our reviews today cover a variety of machines that can do everything from industrial grade straight stitching to elaborate embroidery, garment construction, and making quilts.

If you’ve had some experience sewing, you’ve probably already decided what features are important to you. But if you’re very new to using a sewing machine, you might want a little more information first.

What stitches are most important? 

General purpose sewing requires only two stitches, the straight and the zigzag. If you’re sewing upholstery, handbags, or sails, a machine like the Consew that only does straight stitches would be just fine. But if you want to make clothes or drapes, you’ll want the two stitches at least. And that’s no problem on any mechanical or computerized machine for home use.

Buttonhole stitches are essential if you want to sew clothing or certain crafts. And the easier it is to make a buttonhole, the better, if you plan to use that feature a lot. Don’t settle for a 4-step buttonhole maker if you make a lot of clothing with buttons. There are many machines with one-step functions.

Blind hem stitches are also useful for making nearly invisible hems. Meanwhile, stretch or knit stitches are essential if you plan to work with knit materials like sweaters.

While you consider stitch types, also consider whether the machine will allow you to adjust the stitch size.

Mechanical or computerized, which is better?

Both mechanical and computerized sewing machines have their pluses and minuses. Computerized machines often have easier-to-use features for beginning sewers, plus they come with more stitches. They may also stitch more neatly.

On the other hand, mechanical machines may last longer, and are easier to maintain and service. They don’t go out of date as quickly. But they aren’t updateable either.

Convenient features 

Besides stitches and buttonhole makers, you may find some of these features essential, too.

• Needle Threader: An automatic needle threader saves time and frustration.
• Needle up-down stop position: If you’re a quilter or do free motion embroidery, this is a must.
• Needle Position L/R Adjustment: Set the needle’s position more to the left or right for zippers, seams, and top stitching.
• Free arm: A free arm makes it possible to sew a narrow item like a sleeve by pulling out a removable section of the machine.
• Knee lifter: You can lift up the presser foot while you use both hands to hold the fabric in place, a nice trick for free motion sewing.

Then, besides these features, you may also want to look at what accessories come in the box with the machine. For example, if you transport your machine to a sewing class, you may want a hard case and carrying handle. Or if you make quilts, you may want an extension table. Most machines come with a few presser feet, but will the one you choose have all the feet you need?

Finally, although it’s not a feature, per se, it’s something that can make or break your love for a new machine. How noisy is it going to be? If you feel restricted about sewing because your machine is too loud, it may not be worth the investment.

Recommendation

If the choices are still overwhelming, here are a few tips. The best all-around easy-to-use machine for making clothes, quilting, and crafting would be the award-winning Singer Stylist 7258. If you prefer embroidery, but still want to sew and quilt, get the Brother SE400 instead.

If you love quilting, try the Singer 7469Q or the Brother HC1850. And if you’re an experienced sewer, you’ll get a lot out of the Juki Exceed HZL-F600. Finally, if you’re starting a home business, you may find the Consew 206RB-5 a powerful tool if you only need straight stitches. But if you need more stitching options, try one of the heavy duty mechanical machines like the Janome HD3000 or Singer 4432.

Conclusion

We hope we helped you find the perfect sewing machine for all your sewing needs. Check back with us again soon to see new reviews and buyer’s guides for the best tools, tech, and gadgets to help you reach your goals and follow your dreams.