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I Have Over 15 Years of Experience Sewing—These Are the 5 Best Sewing Machines You Can Buy for All Kinds of Projects

Easy-to-use models for your next DIY

Updated on December 18, 2025

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By Emma AsheI've been writing for The Spruce since 2022 and have been sewing for over 20 years with machines from Pfaff, Singer, and Baby Lock.

In This Article

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In This Article

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Credit: The Spruce

My grandmother taught me how to sew when I was 6 years old, and I can still remember my excitement of getting to use the different features of her well-loved Pfaff sewing machine. Now that I have three of my own sewing machines (from different brands), and a hybrid office-sewing room to host them, I’ve learned there’s really no one-size-fits-all model.

Whether you’re a seasoned sewist looking for a more advanced sewing machine to match your skills or a beginner looking for a fuss-free machine, I recommend prioritizing an interface (computerized or mechanical) that feels comfortable to you. Over the past two years, my team and I have tested 35 different models from Brother, Singer, Baby Lock, and more, and we’ve whittled our list down to a few favorite models that continue to impress us.

Throughout this list, you’ll learn more about what we found while testing each machine, and I've highlighted each pick's best features as an avid sewist with over 15 years of experience crafting, making, and mending.

Top Picks

Best Overall:

Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine at Amazon$270

Jump to Review

Best for Beginners:

Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine at Amazon$230

Jump to Review

Best Heavy-Duty:

SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine at Amazon$230

Jump to Review

Best for Advanced Sewists:

Singer Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine at Amazon$550

Jump to Review

Best for Clothes:

Baby Lock Jubilant at Babylock.com$689

Jump to Review

Compare Top Picks

Price

Machine Type

Presser Feet Included

Number of Stitches

Weight

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Best Overall
Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine | Best Overall Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine | View on
Amazon | | $270 | | Computerized | | 8 | | 165 | | 10.12 pounds | Full Review | | :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-st371hd-sewing-machine-frances-crouter-4-83c890fdac9f4c8aa0f214c244023d76.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/Brother-ST371HD-Stitches-Heavyweight-Quick-Change/dp/B01E54NNSC?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)
Best for Beginners
Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine | Best for Beginners Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine | View on
Amazon | | $230
$220 | | Mechanical | | 6 | | 37 | | 18.4 pounds | Full Review | | :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-1-ffa28dd8fddd45b9b43d9136dd7a4316.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/SINGER-4423-Stitches-12-Decorative-Automatic/dp/B003VWXZQ0/?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)
Best Heavy-Duty
SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine | Best Heavy-Duty SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine | View on
Amazon | | $230 | | Mechanical | | 4 | | 23 | | 17.1 pounds | Full Review | | :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-05-15be17d630114c11a5cab7e4af6cd2cf.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004RDH7Y8/?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)
Best for Advanced Sewists
Singer Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine | Best for Advanced Sewists Singer Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine | View on
Amazon | | $550 | | Computerized | | 13 | | 600 | | 20 pounds | Full Review | | :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-16-fd08d7ea9b294e4fafe5a42da56f626c.jpeg)](https://babylock.com/jubilant)
Best for Clothes
Baby Lock Jubilant | Best for Clothes Baby Lock Jubilant | View on
babylock.com | | $689 | | Computerized | | 7 | | 80 | | 14.4 pounds | Full Review |

Compare Top Picks

Best Overall

Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-xr9550-sewing-and-quilting-machine-tiffany-ivanovich-17-cfe9e53e50b342a29ec08a7b184c6e30.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088JDJ6MS?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)Credit: The Spruce

$270 at Amazon $270 at Target $270 at Brother-usa.com

What We Like

  • Easy learning curve from a mechanical model

  • Intuitive controls and easy-to-understand LCD

  • Excellent for both newcomers and intermediate users

What We Don't Like

  • Stitch count starts at 00

Two people on our team have now tested the Brother XR9550, and it remains our top choice because of its simplified, computerized design. Even one of our team members, who had previously used a much older sewing machine model, found this machine simple to thread and set up, thanks to its thorough packaging and quick-start guide. Months later, they still consider it their main machine and have used it to make pillowcases, patchwork pieces, and now curtains.

With 165 stitches, eight presser feet, and an extension table, this machine is well-equipped for all types of sewing. Its simple button interface makes it easy to switch between stitches, reverse stitching, and adjust stitch width or the needle position.

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I love the drop-in style bobbin—meaning, it's located near the needle plate and easier for beginners to navigate—with a thread guide that snips away excess length. Plus, in addition to standard, functional stitches, of which there are 110, the remaining 55 stitches are alphanumeric options, so you can even try your hand at monogramming. However, there is only one font.

It’s easy to cycle through all the stitch options on the digital screen, which also suggests a compatible presser foot for each stitch. My one note of caution when using this machine is to be aware that the functional stitch and stretch stitch counts both start at 00, rather than 01. I personally find this an odd design choice, as most machines start at stitch 1. But, every single stitch comes out smooth and consistent, even several projects later, and there are tons of YouTube tutorials available to help you get to know the machine better.

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-xr9550-sewing-and-quilting-machine-tiffany-ivanovich-14-ea1d55787e5c4256b409895b5798c7b0.jpeg) The Brother XR9550 Sewing Machine has just a few buttons, so the interface is not overwhelming.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-xr9550-sewing-and-quilting-machine-tiffany-ivanovich-06-5a270be63ecb4bc1b5572c60bf5bb1a3.jpeg) This machine comes with a zipper foot, among several others, perfect for making clothes and pouches.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-xr9550-sewing-and-quilting-machine-tiffany-ivanovich-15-4f8f8dcaeb9245ec89b7b7c6f3354005.jpeg) The drop-in bobbin has a guide that shows the correct direction of the thread.Credit: The Spruce

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This machine is also just over 10 pounds, which makes it one of the lightest options in our roundup, and it has a carrying handle and hard-cover case. Carrying handles are not uncommon on machines, but I think this model would be a more portable option for trips to sewing classes or different work areas. A built-in light (which is brighter in real life than you'd expect) also makes this machine easy to travel with; you can see your projects wherever you go.

The adjustable speed slider is another standout feature, especially when working on projects with varying thicknesses. Whether you're approaching a curve or stitching through zipper teeth, the speed slider caps the maximum speed of the machine, ensuring you can better control your fabric to create straight stitches. We've also enjoyed playing around with the elastic stitch, and there's an embroidery feature built in for those looking to make more personalized pieces.

What Our Tester Said

There’s a ton of potential in this machine, and even after a few months of using it, I still feel like there’s a whole world of features I haven’t even touched yet.

Those familiar with the Brother brand won’t be surprised by this review, as it has been a popular contender in the sewing industry for over 100 years, offering a range of machines for all levels of users. And, this pick can easily be upgraded with separate purchases, such as a walking foot, to grow with your skills.

Type: Computerized | Number of Stitch Options: 165 | Buttonhole Options: 8 | Speed: 850 stitches per minute | Feet Included: 8 | Bobbin Type: Drop-in | Dimensions: 20 x 13.5 x 17.9 inches | Weight: 10.12 pounds

What is a walking foot?

A walking foot ensures your top and bottom fabric feed evenly through your sewing machine, which is especially helpful with slippery or thick fabrics, such as silk and felt.

Best for Beginners

Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine

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$230\ $220 at Amazon $216 at Wayfair $230 at Walmart

What We Like

  • Easy stitch selection design

  • Stretch stitches

  • Automatic buttonhole

What We Don’t Like

  • Heavy

Heavy-duty sewing machines from Singer and Juki have gained recent popularity among hobbyists for their durable and simple designs, and this Brother sewing machine model is worth noting, too. While this particular model is especially heavy at 18 pounds, I would still happily recommend it to my sewing students who want a simple machine for at-home projects.

The Brother ST371HD has a unique stitch selector knob located below the needle handwheel, which I think is a great foolproof design for beginners. It ensures that the user cannot accidentally change the stitch by brushing a knob on the front of the machine or accidentally pressing a button. However, I will suggest taking caution to make sure you don’t mix up the needle handwheel and the knob selector, since they are near each other and relatively the same size.

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-st371hd-sewing-machine-frances-crouter-10-7f55a10a9a3545ecaaf943d3bf1c7038.jpeg) The Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine easily handled thicker fabrics like denim.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-st371hd-sewing-machine-frances-crouter-8-92b68fd033524ccda7591b1248f9e587.jpeg) This sewing machine comes with replacement needles, several bobbins, and additional presser feet.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-st371hd-sewing-machine-frances-crouter-12-07e6154f17594976971328f018b2f52c.jpeg) It's easy to remove the storage compartment on this sewing machine and use the free arm.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-brother-st371hd-sewing-machine-frances-crouter-16-73280569df0a4a9e9654e336b508e6ec.jpeg) This sewing machine also came with two spool caps to fit different size spools of thread.Credit: The Spruce

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While 37 stitches may seem limiting, this machine offers a diverse set of stitches that make it appropriate for beginners and intermediate users. The stretch stitches will be especially useful for projects using spandex and knit fabrics. I also love that this machine comes with an automatic buttonhole presser foot, which is much easier to use than a four-step buttonhole typically found on mechanical models.

We enjoyed using this machine during testing and found it equally handled thick denim and lighter cotton. I think beginners will enjoy the uncomplicated features of this machine, and it will always be a great model to have on hand even if you eventually add a computerized model to your collection.

Type: Mechanical | Number of Stitch Options: 37 | Buttonhole Options: 1 | Speed: 800 stitches per minute | Feet Included: 6 | Bobbin Type: Drop-in | Dimensions: 7.87 x 16.1 x 12.21 inches | Weight: 18.4 pounds

Stitch Options

Beginner sewists should look for stitch options in the range of 15 to 100. Mechanical machines typically have less than 20 stitch options. The stitch options on computerized machines are much more varied. The highest total in our roundup is 600, which is more than sufficient for intermediate and expert users.

Best Heavy-Duty

SINGER Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-1-ffa28dd8fddd45b9b43d9136dd7a4316.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/SINGER-4423-Stitches-12-Decorative-Automatic/dp/B003VWXZQ0/?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)Credit: The Spruce

$230 at Amazon $223 at Wayfair $224 at Walmart

What We Like

  • Intuitive knobs and dials

  • Straightforward instruction manual for plug-and-sew experience

  • Compact, yet heavyweight model

What We Don't Like

  • Pedal cord feels short

The Singer Heavy-Duty 4423 Sewing Machine is a mechanical model that functions similarly to our best for beginners machine. If you plan to work primarily with thick fabrics or don't want a machine with dozens of decorative stitches, this model is the one I'd recommend.

Its two primary knobs control stitch selection and length, and three additional dials adjust the thread tension and needle position. It doesn't take much effort to get this machine ready to sew, and the instruction manual feels sufficient (with helpful graphics!), so we didn't need to consult any outside tutorials.

You only receive four presser feet with this machine's kit—an all-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and button sewing foot—but this makes this machine particularly great for beginners and users who may only pull it out occasionally for garment repairs.

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We sewed a cotton pillowcase on this machine and had no issues navigating stitch adjustments, and we love that the clear drop-in bobbin cover makes it easy to monitor the bobbin's remaining thread as you sew. We also sewed on jersey and denim without issues and without changing our needle.

This machine is well-designed with a metal interior (like all the machines on our list), and its compact dimensions make it easier to store. However, we do wish the power cord for the foot pedal was a little longer. It was just slightly awkward finding the right angle to control the pedal at the table we set up our machine on.

Type: Mechanical | Number of Stitch Options: 23 | Buttonhole Options: 1 | Speed: 1,100 stitches per minute | Feet Included: 4 | Bobbin Type: Drop-in | Dimensions: 15 x 6.25 x 12 inches | Weight: 17.1 pounds

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-9-ed85d02080284920929efe064974e850.jpeg) We made a pillowcase using the Singer 4423 and found the free-arm helpful for completing the hem.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-4-0655897668074f7185132c400ec4c861.jpeg) We tried a few sample stitches from this machine's selection on scrap fabric.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-7-f0e9aa480ed14c978b96e14a16b3a87b.jpeg) This machine handles denim well, in addition to lightweight cotton.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-heavy-duty-4423-sewing-machine-candace-madonna-2-77864d6ad7e44ec3803e3c3be50134f1.jpeg) This machine comes with extra presser feet, bobbins, and a soft cover.Credit: The Spruce

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Best for Advanced Sewists

Singer Quantum Stylist Sewing Machine

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-05-15be17d630114c11a5cab7e4af6cd2cf.jpeg)](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004RDH7Y8/?tag=thespruce-onsite-prod-20&ascsubtag=4098580)Credit: The Spruce

$550 at Amazon $690\ $544 at Wayfair $550 at Target

What We Like

  • Allows advanced sewists to try new techniques

  • Feature-rich and extensive presser foot selection

  • Stitch shortcut buttons speed up projects

  • Walking foot included

What We Don't Like

  • Heavy

  • Upper thread guides are difficult to see

I’ve been testing the Singer Quantum Stylist at home for over a year, and it’s an excellent sewing machine for advanced sewists who can complete a variety of projects like quilts, clothes, and accessories. The thread-cutting button, stitch-tacking button, and sliding speed adjuster all speed up the process between steps in a sewing project.

I particularly love that this machine has buttons for all of its functions, rather than dials. While dials are typically fine on mechanical models, it’s easy to accidentally change the stitch type by brushing against the selector knob on newer computerized options.

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Plus, there are dedicated buttons for your most frequently used stitches, like a left-needle-position straight stitch, a center-needle-position straight stitch, and the standard zig-zag stitch. I love that the size of decorative stitches can be enlarged, so it’s easier to cover larger squares and quilt patterns more efficiently, too.

The real show-stopper on this model, though, is its walking foot. Not having to purchase a walking foot separately is not only convenient, but it means you're one step closer to following patterns and designing clothes. Plus, it never hurts to sew with a walking foot; in fact, some high-end machines even come with them built in (no separate attachment required).

While other machines on this list also come with an extension table, I think it’s especially useful with this model because you’ll likely leave it set up in one spot due to its size. The extension table guarantees you have more workspace when you need it.

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-09-1d6e57de67344e4e80efae1b391cfa5e.jpeg) The Singer Quantum Stylist comes with 13 presser feet, making it great for advanced users.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-01-4fcb910db2344b6b87a4833d57c416be.jpeg) Threading this machine is easy to do with the automatic needle threader.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-13-5ef6811a45764a5286383cf3248bd7cf.jpeg) This machine's variety of stitches makes it excellent for quilting and embroidery.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-singer-quantum-stylist-9960-emma-ashe-10-dd61f1bb79264f039ade35f1ca6c2655.jpeg) We've completed many projects with this sewing machine, including a hair tool zippered pouch.Credit: The Spruce

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I prefer to use the foot pedal with any sewing machine, rather than the start and stop buttons, but I do appreciate the thought behind this machine’s slow stitch button. The slow stitch function works by slowing down the speed of the machine when using it in its “self-driving” mode (with the start and stop buttons rather than the pedal). I think it would be useful for quickly slowing down at curves while sewing.

The thread guides are raised on the body of this machine as well, rather than being printed in a bright color like other machines. This makes steps one through three of the upper threading process nearly impossible to see without proper overhead lighting. While threading this machine is not too different from the process on other modern machines, I can see this being frustrating for users with poor eyesight or beginners who have never threaded a sewing machine.

Despite this machine’s daunting number of stitches and weight, it’s well-designed and even took the place of my primary machine on most sewing projects. For intermediate to advanced sewists, this Singer is worthy of consideration.

Type: Computerized | Number of Stitch Options: 600 | Buttonhole Options: 13 | Speed: 850 stitches per minute | Feet Included: 13 | Bobbin Type: Drop-in | Dimensions: 17.25 x 8.25 x 12 inches | Weight: 20 pounds

Lighting Your Workspace

If you find that your sewing workspace still isn’t bright enough with the addition of a desk lamp, I recommend purchasing adhesive machine strip lights. As you can see in the images above, I have these lights on my model of the Singer Quantum Stylist, and it’s made a major difference in illuminating my work.

Best for Clothes

Baby Lock Jubilant

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-16-fd08d7ea9b294e4fafe5a42da56f626c.jpeg)](https://babylock.com/jubilant)Credit: The Spruce

$689 at Babylock.com

What We Like

  • Helpful error prompts on screen

  • Additional support available through online sources

  • Stitch tack button

What We Don't Like

  • Stitch selector dial can be accidentally changed

  • Automatic needle threader is not immediately intuitive

The Baby Lock Jubilant makes it easy to want to learn more about sewing, which is why it earned our superlative of best sewing machine for clothes. We sent this machine home with a team member who has previous experience sewing and wants to become more advanced in her skills, and she has enjoyed learning about its feature-rich interface and using it to alter and fix the clothing and other home goods in her space. She even used it to make a Halloween costume for her dog, and it handled fake fur fabric with ease.

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The Jubilant is also one of the models I use for teaching in my volunteer sewing class, so I'm quite familiar with its setup and accessories, too. Similar to our best heavy-duty pick, this machine is quick to set up and comes with a helpful manual. We only had a small hiccup while learning to use the automatic needle threader properly.

The 80 built-in stitches allow you to work with various fabrics (like stretchy jersey and thick canvas) and adorn projects with pretty decorative designs like vines or hearts. The bright screen also makes it easy to know your stitch width, stitch length, and a suggested compatible presser foot.

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-06-f014274ce3e8403ca19f69d2e6c6b1b6.jpeg) The Baby Lock Jubilant's screen shows a compatible presser foot for each stitch.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-14-9925090fbbb845bfa95957b3cd3f44e5.jpeg) The seven presser feet in this machine's kit will allow you to sew buttons, zippers, and blind hems.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-04-76b25f3e4b824de4862b1b46888107b9.jpeg) This model also comes with an extra stitch guide that clips to the top of the machine.Credit: The Spruce

  • :max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/spr-baby-lock-jubilant-sewing-machine-sara-luckey-17-cefe750834354b9b973ce5d392cda544.jpeg) There's plenty of space on the throat of this machine to sew larger items.Credit: The Spruce

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Additionally, this machine will flash an error message if you forget to lower your presser foot, have a threading or needle error, and more, so it's never a guessing game of what's going wrong. The only time it doesn't seem to notify you is when your bobbin has run out, so you still need to keep an eye out for incomplete stitches. The other standout button on this machine is the stitch tacking button, which is especially useful for having neatly finished seams on clothing items.

While this machine does have a computerized dial for selecting the different stitches, it makes an audible beep between each stitch, so it's fairly easy to know if you've accidentally switched to a different stitch. There's plenty to love about this machine's design, but the resources available for sewists using Baby Lock machines are really one of the standout "bonus" features you don't always find with other brands. Plus, the built-in light means you might not need additional lighting beyond a desk lamp for your workspace.

What Our Tester Said

I have pushed it to sew through denim, fake fur, and to fix a huge tear in a specialty mattress pad.

It's easy to access tutorials and training for this machine online, so if the written instructions aren't feeling intuitive, you're sure to find an explanation in the Baby Lock online community.

Type: Computerized | Number of Stitch Options: 80 | Buttonhole Options: 8 | Speed: 850 stitches per minute | Feet Included: 7 | Bobbin Type: Drop-in | Dimensions: 16.25 x 6.25 x 11 inches | Weight: 14.4 pounds

Using Your Needle Threader

My biggest tip is to ensure the presser foot on your machine is down before attempting to use the threader on your machine. A raised presser foot interferes with the tension that the threader creates to send the thread through the eye of the needle.

Final Verdict

The Brother XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine is the best sewing machine on the market and a great choice for any level of sewist. We love its lightweight design, making it easy to transport. If you’re looking for a sewing machine that can do a little bit more, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine is well-built with 600 stitches. I’ve found it easy to use for everything from seat cushions to makeup pouches.

How We Tested the Sewing Machines

We've been testing sewing machines for almost two years, and to best assess each sewing machine’s practical application, we test the machines in our own homes for months.

Based on the type of machine being tested, we ask our team members to complete one of two simple projects: a pillowcase or a zippered pouch. We send sewing machines marketed toward beginner sewists to members of our team who are new to sewing and ask them to make a cotton pillowcase. More advanced machines are tested by team members, like myself, who have previous experience with sewing machines and feel more comfortable testing additional functions.

  • While using the machines, we compare them to other models we’ve used, and we consider the most helpful features of the interface.
  • We also note whether any particular buttons, knobs, or levers are confusing, and we monitor how well the machine adjusts tension (in the case of computerized models).
  • We note any shortcomings the machine might have, like dim lighting, limited free arm space, or a poor instruction manual.
  • Using the machines for several weeks also allows us to try out other projects, too, like hemming pants, sewing curtains and chair cushions, and mending pocket holes.

Tip From Our Team

The most common learning curve we've experienced during testing is understanding how the automatic needle threader works. While helpful, they often get stuck or don't catch the thread correctly, so be sure to read your machine's manual carefully.

Out of the 35 sewing machines we’ve tested thus far, five stand out for their intuitive setup and reliable performance. Beginners and advanced sewists alike will appreciate these machines for their durability, even hundreds of projects later.

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Watch Us Test the Best Sewing Machines

Sewing Machine Types 101: Computerized, Mechanical, and Serger

You may have noticed that we differentiate between each sewing machine on our list by identifying it as a mechanical, computerized, or serger machine. Each machine type has its particular strengths and weaknesses. Before you purchase a machine, it’s important to understand how its functionality may impact your projects.

Computerized

While I grew up exclusively learning how to sew on computerized models, my grandmother often notes that they have a mind of their own (which is true). These machines offer some conveniences for setup, but you lose some of the understanding of the mechanics in the process. If you’re a beginner, a computerized machine may seem daunting without the help of an expert.

The most significant difference between computerized and mechanical models is how each sets stitch tension.

The most significant difference between computerized and mechanical models is how each sets stitch tension. A machine’s tension determines how tight or loose the thread is when it's woven through fabric. Computerized machines eliminate the guesswork of determining the appropriate tension on your machine by automatically adjusting it when you change a stitch setting. Whereas the stitch tension must be adjusted every time you make a different stitch selection on a mechanical sewing machine.

Computerized sewing machines also offer flexibility for sewists at any level. Convenient shortcuts like stitch tacking buttons, specialized presser feet, and memory boards allow sewists to focus on their projects and lessen the amount of tinkering required when switching between various stitches. For example, I love having the thread-cutting button on the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine because it means I don’t have to keep a pair of scissors nearby (which I repeatedly misplace during projects).

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Computerized sewing machines often come with more stitch options than mechanical machines, too.Credit: Henry Wortock

Mechanical

Despite having learned to sew on a computerized model, I wish I had more experience adjusting my thread tension, which I rarely do on my machine now. I recommend beginner sewists use a mechanical model, so they can focus on mastering several basic stitches. This also allows them to understand why stitch tension needs to be adjusted for certain fabrics and projects.

There’s also some freedom in having a simpler machine because you’ll quickly become familiar with all of its functions, so you’ll know exactly what you need to adjust to complete a project. Our best for beginners pick, the Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine is a well-designed sewing machine with dials and knobs for adjusting tension, changing stitch width and length, and selecting your stitch type.

Sergers

Unlike computerized or mechanical sewing machines, a serger is specifically designed to finish the edges of fabric seams. Sergers can be a wonderful tool for more advanced sewists, and they’ve recently risen in popularity online among the sewing hobbyist community for their versatility with knits.

We've tested two serger models, but don't currently recommend any on our list as they're not the most versatile machines, especially for those relatively new to this craft.

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We tested machines with both drop-in and front-loading bobbins, but found drop-in bobbins more foolproof.Credit: The Spruce

What to Look for in a Sewing Machine

A User-Friendly Interface With Intuitive Controls

All of the sewing machines on our list, no matter the type, have one feature in common: intuitive buttons or knobs. Paired with a helpful quick-start guide and user manual, you should be able to thread your sewing machine and get sewing within an hour or two of initially unboxing it.

All of the sewing machines on our list also have a drop-in bobbin, which is easier to set up than a front-loading bobbin. Front-loading bobbins aren’t difficult to set up, but they do have a few extra steps, which is why we’ve stuck to focusing on drop-in bobbin machines on this list.

Before you start an actual project, I recommend taking some time to test out each of the stitches that your machine offers on a piece of scrap fabric. This will get you comfortable switching between the stitches, and you can take time to familiarize yourself with the reverse stitch lever (or button, depending on the model). You should avoid purchasing a sewing machine that feels daunting, so if the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine has too many buttons for you, consider the Baby Lock Jubilant instead.

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Every sewing machine will come with a standard, all-purpose presser foot, but look out for zipper, button, and blind hem feet, too.Credit: The Spruce

Versatile Stitch and Presser Feet Options

Every modern sewing machine will include a straight and zig-zag stitch paired with a reverse stitch lever (or button) and a general-purpose zig-zag foot, which is compatible with middle, left, and right-oriented needle positions. If you’re a beginner, these may be the only features you use on the machine for months, but it’s also good to consider the type of buttonhole function the machine offers if you plan on creating garments. I prefer a machine with a one-step buttonhole and an auto-sizing buttonhole presser foot. All of the machines on our list have this capability.

Decorative stitches are especially useful for quilters, but I’ve also used decorative stitches to create borders on shirt sleeves and edges on a purse. Most sewing machines come with multiple presser feet to correspond to the various stitches programmed on that machine. Sewing machines have separate feet for buttonholes, zippers, and blind hems. More advanced models may also come with specialty feet, such as options for darning, overstitching, and more.

Consider the types of projects you plan to do while looking at stitch options and the number of presser feet. You’ll notice that some machines are better equipped for handling projects, such as designing clothes, because they come with garment-oriented presser feet (like a blind hem foot and a zipper foot).

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Carrying handles make it easier to transport your sewing machine, especially if it's heavy.Credit: Eric Brockob

The Machine's Weight and Durability

Compact sewing machines may weigh as little as 10 pounds (such as our overall best pick, Brother's XR9550 Sewing and Quilting Machine), while heavy-duty machines can weigh 20 pounds or more. Our best for advanced sewists pick, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Sewing & Quilting Machine, is 20 pounds, and it stays on my sewing table because it’s just too heavy to transport for sewing at my grandmother’s house.

  • If you’re planning on taking your sewing machine to classes or sewing retreats, you’ll likely want a lightweight model that’s easy to carry. The same holds true if you don’t have a designated workstation for your sewing machine—a lighter model will be easier to pack up and store after you’re done using it, especially if it comes with a hard case.
  • If you’re planning on working with heavy fabrics, like denim, leather, or canvas, or completing bulky projects, you’re going to need a more durable sewing machine. A heavy-duty machine, like our best for beginners pick, the Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine, is meant to handle these tougher fabrics and may come with a wider throat (the distance between the needle and the control panel), extension table, and heavy-duty needles. These features expand your quilting space, distribute the weight of your fabrics evenly, and help feed your fabrics through.

Your Local Servicing Options

Like a car, sewing machines require regular servicing for optimal performance, so you’ll want to see if there’s an authorized service facility for your chosen machine nearby. If you don’t have an authorized repair shop or retailer in your area, you can ship your machine back to the manufacturer for maintenance, but it may take weeks or even months to receive your repaired model. Major sewing machine manufacturers offer a “find an authorized dealer” feature on their website, and we’ve listed those links for the appropriate brands from our list here: Authorized Brother dealers, Find a Singer store, and Baby Lock retail locator.

Why Trust The Spruce?

I'm Emma Ashe, an editor for The Spruce specializing in home textiles like bedding and towels. As an avid sewist in my free time, my expertise extends to sewing machines. I own a Baby Lock machine but grew up learning on a Pfaff, and I also volunteer as a sewing teacher for beginner learners in a weekly class.

I love the Singer Quantum Stylist, even after over a year of having it at home. I've crafted both larger and smaller items with it, including makeup bags and dining room chair cushions. For this roundup, I reviewed my team's testing data. I selected the machines on this list based on each machine's accessibility to beginners and available advanced features that would encourage skill growth.

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