The line between the best sewing machines and everything else on the market is often thread thin.

On the surface, so many sewing machines look the same. They even offer relatively the same features. This could lead you to believe that one is really just as good as the other.

That’s rarely the case, though. The best sewing machines are often defined by some of the things you can’t read on a label or even see just by looking at them. They come through an appreciation for how subtle design decisions add up to give you a machine that simply feels great to use.

Because it’s not exactly easy to use every sewing machine out there just to see which looks the best, we’ve done some of the legwork for you by taking a closer look at some of the best models on the market and identifying the ones that truly stand out.

Here are some of the best sewing machines you can buy in 2019.

Are you looking for an amazingly powerful sewing machine that has nearly everything you could ever need? This PQ1500SL model from Brother was designed just for you.

Let’s get the highlight feature of this machine out of the way first. With its 1500 stitches-per-minute motor, this is quite simply one of the most powerful sewing machines that you will find on the retail market. There’s almost nothing that this device can’t do with that level of power. It also makes it a brilliant machine for quilting.

Actually, this model’s feed dog adjuster and its various settings means that you can even easily work with felt, velvet, and other types of materials that are typically more difficult to manage with lesser models. Actually, the number of features that you get with this model is almost daunting. There’s almost nothing you can’t do with this sewing machine. It certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s incredibly durable and will last you for years with just a little upkeep and maintenance.

That does bring us to the elephant in the room. This model’s almost $500 retail price means that it’s hard to recommend to all but the most dedicated of users. Considering that it was designed to appeal to that demographic, though, it’s hard to find a proper fault with what you get here.

Key Features
  • Auto thread trimmer
  • Included needle threader
  • Four feed dog settings
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 30
  • Number of Included Needles: 5
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 1500 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25 years
  • Brand: Brother
Pros
  • Powerful
  • Excellent features
  • Great for quilting
Cons
  • Not the best for beginners
  • Tricky to thread
  • A little noisy

Looking for a fairly lightweight machine that offers an impressive array of premium features? This CS6000i machine from Brother may just be what you’re looking for.

At 13 pounds, this machine certainly trends towards the “lightweight” category even if it’s not the lightest that we’ve seen of this design. Having said that, you only really want your machine to be so light if what you’re looking for is overall functionality. Sometimes, weight can be a good thing if it means increased durability.

That’s certainly what you’re getting in this instance. While you may have to consider replacing a couple of the weaker parts of this machine over a long enough period of heavy use, most users will find that this sewing machine holds up incredibly well for “typical” use. It certainly doesn’t hurt that you can learn this machine fairly easily thanks to some included instructions and awesome LED indicators.

Actually, one of the things you’ll love most about this machine is how it automates and simplifies so many processes. Threading is fairly straightforward, and you can even swap between various stitches just by turning a knob. The machine’s main work area is even brightened to make it that much easier to see what you’re doing. A lot of thought went into this sewing machine’s features.

For its price point, this is simply one of the best sewing machines on the market.

Key Features
  • Easy-to-use
  • Automatic threader
  • Free arm design
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 60
  • Number of Included Needles: 3 stitches per minute
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 850
  • Warranty: 25-year limited
  • Brand: Brother
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Built to last
  • Incredible features
Cons
  • Tension can come loose
  • May require some upkeep
  • A couple of weaker parts

While many of the best sewing machines are perfect for the average user, finding one that works for more demanding jobs without resorting to an industrial machine can be much more challenging.

That’s part of the reason why the Quantum Stylist 9960 from Singer is one of the most fascinating sewing machines on the market.

First off, you should know that this machine is incredibly powerful. It’s 850 stitches-per-minute speed is impressive enough on its own, but even that number doesn’t really convey this device’s power. You will need to play with the settings and needles if you’re using thicker kinds of material, but the pure power of this sewing machine should never be a problem.

On top of that, you get 600 (you read that right) built-in stitches as well as a versatile LED selection screen that allows you to swap between stitches and functionalities with a single touch. The raw power and metal frame design of this machine is impressive enough, but the fact that Singer was able to pack in so many easy-to-use features is what really helps this device stand out.

It should be noted that this machine is not intended for new users, which really isn’t that much of a downside, but it does limit the market for this model somewhat. Regardless, there are few true flaws in this design.

Key Features
  • Automatic threader
  • 13 built-in buttonholes
  • Several presser feet
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 600
  • Number of Included Needles: 4
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 850 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25 years
  • Brand: Singer
Pros
  • Very powerful
  • Incredibly durable
  • Versatile design
Cons
  • Some plastic parts
  • Not great for new users
  • Struggles sometimes with thicker material

While there are plenty of “heavier” sewing machines out there that are fine for beginners, there’s something to be said for a machine that is designed specifically for that purpose. A sewing machine truly designed for beginners is usually the kind of machine that people will keep around in their homes just in case they ever need it.

So far as that goes, this model from Singer really is one of the best sewing machines on the market.

This machine is designed from top-to-bottom to keep things simple. By that, we mean that it offers a series of basic features in a lightweight design. Threading is made simple (including options for dual-spool threading), stitch selection is easy to learn and use, and you even get some nice buttonhole options.

Best of all, there’s an option to use this as a free arm machine, which is pretty great for when you need to use this on smaller pieces of fabric. Indeed, this is really just an all-around excellent machine when it comes to performing minor touch-ups and other relatively simple pieces of clothing maintenance.

Of course, you do have to accept certain limitations with this design. It’s not as durable as higher-end machines, and it’s certainly not meant to handle larger loads over a longer period of time. As long as you know what you’re getting into, though, this really is a grew sewing machine.

Key Features
  • Metal frame
  • Stainless steel bedplate
  • Four-step buttonhole
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 6
  • Number of Included Needles: 1
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 350-400 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25 years
  • Brand: Singer
Pros
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Compact design
  • Strong parts
Cons
  • Not for bigger projects
  • May jam from time to time
  • May become weaker with constant use

We’ve looked at a few Brother sewing machines so far, and we’ve seen why they’re considered to be some of the best sewing machines on the market.

Yet, this particular sewing machine from Brother might just be one of their absolute best models.

The Project Runway branding might actually lead you to believe that this is a “gimmicky” or “promo” machine, but that’s not really not the case in this instance. Actually, this sewing machine is one of the most feature-rich models that we’ve seen in this price range and of this design.

Included in this machine are features like a sizeable LED display, five one-step customizable button holes, a brightened work area, stitch chart, vertical spool pin, and automatic needle threader. You just get so much in one package when you purchase this sewing machine.

That package includes an incredibly powerful electric motor that is perfect for handling heavier duty tasks and similar jobs. Actually, between its motor and settings, you’re talking about one of the absolute best machines on the market for a variety of purposes.

So what’s the catch? Well, this model can jam easier than some other designs, but that’s partially due to the more powerful motor and how you will have to be slightly more careful when using it. Otherwise, you’ll love this machine if you’re looking for something a little more substantial.

Key Features
  • Six specialty feet
  • Five one step buttonholes
  • Easy threading
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 50
  • Number of Included Needles: 5
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 850 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25-year limited
  • Brand: Brother
Pros
  • Powerful motor
  • Tons of features
  • Reliable design
Cons
  • Can get jammed easier than other models
  • Some weaker components
  • May wear down over time

We looked before at a Project Runway sewing machine from Brother, but this one is a little different in some fascinating ways.

First off, this is more compact than the other design we looked at. Actually, this machine’s impressive weight (less than 9 pounds) makes it one of the more appealing lightweight designs on the market for those who value that attribute a primary purchase incentive.

Like many lightweight machines, this one is also fantastic for new users. While that is somewhat tied into the machine’s weight and the benefits that attribute comes with, it also speaks to the array of features you get with this device that makes it perfect for inexperienced users. Things like a larger LCD screen and the included automatic needle threader are the kinds of things that many new users should look for as long as they can afford such luxuries.

Does that mean that you sacrifice some versatility and durability with this model? You do, but the trade-off is certainly less noticeable than what you get with pure “beginner” models. Instead, think of this is a midrange machine that helps you overcome the early part of the learning curve through some intuitive design decisions.

If that’s what you’re looking for, then you’ll find that there is a lot to love about this model.

Key Features
  • LCD screen
  • Eight buttonhole styles
  • Automatic threader
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 110
  • Number of Included Needles: 3
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25 years
  • Brand: Brother
Pros
  • Compact design
  • Perfect for new users
  • Great stitches
Cons
  • Some plastic parts
  • Not as heavy duty
  • Can jam from time to time

Is it possible to find a low-priced sewing machine for beginners and kids that weighs less than three pounds and is more than a toy? As it turns out, it is.

Like other sewing machines of this design, you’ve got to accept that this machine was not designed for high-end use. You’re not going to use this as a professional machine, and it will struggle with tougher fabrics. We’re not even sure if we’d say that this is the model we’d advise you keep around just in case you need one.

However, this model happens to be one of our favorites in terms of sewing machines that we’d recommend for children. It’s small, it’s light, and it doesn’t overwhelm you with a lot of features you may never use.

It’s also surprisingly versatile for a machine that’s so affordable. You can certainly use this for rips, touch-ups, and even small projects like doll clothes, so you shouldn’t feel like you’re only buying this for amusement or to teach someone the basics of a sewing machine before they graduate to another model.

As we’ve said, the best sewing machines out there exist to meet a variety of needs. If you so happen to need what this machine offers, you’re going to find that it’s a great purchase.

Key Features
  • Multi-functional design
  • Compact size
  • Double-threaded
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 12
  • Number of Included Needles: 1
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: N/A
  • Warranty: 90 days
  • Brand: Neala
Pros
  • Small model
  • Perfect for new users
  • Nice foot pedal
Cons
  • Can't handle heavier work
  • Some weaker parts
  • Limited features

We’ve looked at a few different sewing machines designed with new users in mind, but this model is a little different. It’s a sewing machine that is explicitly designed for new users and not many others.

That can be a bad thing, and it does certainly come with a few flaws. You just have to realize that this machine was not designed for heavier loads, constant long-term use, and that you’re not going to get as many features with it as you will from other devices.

But you know, this machine is not intended to be used like that. It’s nice that there are models out there intended for people who don’t need that much of a machine, and this is one of the best sewing machines for that purpose.

Weighing in at just under 7 pounds and boasting a fantastic compact design, this machine is perfect for children just learning to sew or anyone who wants to keep a little sewing machine in the closet in case they ever need one for touch-ups. You’re not going to find much to complain about so far as that goes. It’s just when you try to ask this machine to do more than it was intended for that it starts to struggle a bit.

All things considered, this is a simply wonderful sewing machine for what it does.

Key Features
  • Battery-powered
  • Portable design
  • Double thread stitching
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 12
  • Number of Included Needles: 1
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 350 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 90 days
  • Brand: Luby
Pros
  • Perfect for beginners
  • Compact design
  • Excellent battery features
Cons
  • Definitely not for heavy use
  • Not the best needles
  • Threads can tangle

When a sewing machine labels itself as “heavy duty,” that comes with certain expectations. Namely, you expect that machine to be able to hold up to more than just the occasional touch-up.

That’s certainly what you get with this sewing machine, but it also comes with some features that you wouldn’t necessarily expect from a more “heavy duty” model.

Actually, one of the most pleasant features of this sewing machine is how easy it is to use. While this model lacks some features designed to appeal to entirely new users (such as an LED screen), it does feature a compact design that puts nearly everything you’ll ever need right in front of you.

The real draw here, though, is this machine’s durability. Not only is it capable of handling thicker materials, but you should notice that this machine holds up better over time and heavier use. That makes it instantly more appealing to anyone who find themselves regularly using their sewing machine or those who just want to have a little more faith in the versatility of their machine over a longer period of time.

While you do have to put up with a couple of questionable quality of life features (such as a bobbin basket that certainly isn’t the best on the market), this really is one of the best sewing machines when it comes to versatility and overall reliability.

Key Features
  • Automatic needle threader
  • Metal frame
  • High-speed
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 23
  • Number of Included Needles: 3
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 100 stiches per minute
  • Warranty: 25-year limited
  • Brand: Singer
Pros
  • Durable build
  • Versatile design
  • Works well for new users
Cons
  • Some weaker parts
  • Inferior bobbin basket
  • Timing can go off

It’s not easy to find a sewing machine that is good for beginners while also being versatile enough to stick around for slightly heavier jobs. However, the XM2701 from Brother comes fairly close to achieving that goal.

The big draw here is this machine’s relatively lightweight design. At just under 13 pounds, you’ll have no problem moving, storing, and even just using this machine. Given that some of the better machines on the market tend to pack on the pounds in order to increase their functionality, it’s nice to have a slightly higher-end machine that is you can move around with ease.

You also don’t lose much in terms of features just because this is a lighter machine. Actually, with its automatic needle threader, stitch selector, and drop-in bobbin, this is a shocking versatile machine that offers quite a bit to love in terms of functionality. You won’t feel like you’re using a machine was built for anything other than daily use, professional purposes.

Having said that, you do need to realize that isn’t really what this machine is for. This unit will more than meet your daily household needs, but due to some slightly weaker parts, we’re not sure this is necessarily the best option for professionals or anyone else who has to regularly rely on a sewing machine.

Still, this is one of the best sewing machines to simply keep around.

Key Features
  • Free arm design
  • Included stitches
  • Jam resistance
Specifications
  • Number of Stitches: 27
  • Number of Included Needles: 2
  • Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
  • Warranty: 25-year limited
  • Brand: Brother
Pros
  • Easy-to-learn
  • Versatile features
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Some parts can come loose
  • Weaker tension
  • Somewhat awkward fabric feeding

Interested in buying a new sewing machine but not sure exactly what you’re looking for? Here’s a look at some of the biggest features in modern sewing machines and what they mean.

Automatic Buttonholer

Sewing experts might have a pretty good idea what this feature does, but less experienced users might not know this is one of the more desirable features you can get from a modern machine.

Basically, an automatic buttonholer makes it easier to sew a button into the fabric with little or no physical manipulation required, allowing you to create a professional level of clothing you'll be able to use and maintain for years to come. The specifics of this function vary from machine to machine, but the basic idea remains the same.

If you regularly work with buttons, this feature will make your life much, much easier.

Top-Load Bobbin

Loading thread into older sewing machines could sometimes be a cumbersome process. You would often be required to work the threat through a small compartment that was often inconvenient to access and generally unreliable.

Top-load bobbins eliminate much of the trouble. They allow you to run a bobbin through a panel that is typically both easily accessible and convenient to view if you ever need to see how much thread is left.

This feature is becoming more and more standard, so it’s usually ok to be “greedy” and go for it.

Included Stitches

This is another one of those features that is probably pretty obvious. The number of “stitches” in a sewing machine indicates the number of stitch patterns built-into its settings.

The question is “how many stitch patterns do you need?” Answers will vary, but it’s generally agreed that your basic sewing machines should at least feature 15-20 built-in stitch patterns.

If you’re looking for something more advanced (or something that you can “grow into”) then you’re going to want to look for machines that offer much higher numbers than that.

Automatic Needle Threader

To be entirely honest, we’d be shocked if you’d find a sewing machine that is maybe worth buying that doesn’t include this feature. All the same, it’s worth pointing out that you should probably never purchase one that doesn’t benefit from an automatic needle threader.

This feature allows you to skip the process of manually threading your needles. Along with saving you a ton of stress and time, you could honestly argue that this is an essential safety feature that prevents you from having to make precision movements around the needle.

Again, you really need to be cautious of buying a machine that doesn’t feature this, especially if it’s a more expensive or heavy-duty sewing machine.

Resources— Threads MagazineCompare'N Cart, Sew Can She

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