Finding the best sewing machine for your needs can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market today. That's why we've done all the research and testing for you.
Our 2025 picks are organized by skill level, budget, and specific sewing needs to help you find the perfect machine before you buy.
Which company is best for sewing?
There isn't one "best" company for sewing machines since different brands excel in different areas.
Brother and Singer are great for beginners because they offer reliable, affordable machines with good customer support.
For more advanced sewers, brands like Janome and Bernina provide higher-quality construction and precision, though they come with higher price tags.
What features should I look for in a sewing machine?
The most important features depend on what you plan to sew, but automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, and a good selection of built-in stitches are essential for most people.
If you're a beginner, look for machines with easy bobbin loading and clear stitch selection displays.
More experienced sewers might want features like automatic buttonhole functions, speed control, and the ability to sew heavier fabrics.
1. Best Overall: Brother CS7000X
The Brother CS7000X hits the sweet spot between features and affordability at around $150-200, making it our top pick for most sewers.
It offers 70 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, and can handle everything from lightweight cotton to denim without breaking a sweat.
The main downside is that it's made mostly of plastic, so it won't last as long as metal machines, but for the price and versatility, it's hard to beat.
2. Best for Beginners: Singer Start 1304
The Singer Start 1304 keeps things simple with just the basics you need to learn sewing, priced around $85-160.
It has 6 built-in stitches, a free arm for sleeves, and straightforward controls that won't overwhelm new sewers.
While it lacks fancy features like automatic threading or decorative stitches, that's exactly why beginners love it; there's less to go wrong and fewer buttons to confuse you.
3. Best for Intermediate Sewers: Brother HC1850
The Brother HC1850 is built tough with a metal frame and can sew through multiple layers of fabric, making it perfect for quilters and crafters ready to tackle bigger projects at around $200-250.
It includes 185 built-in stitches, automatic threading, and excellent stitch quality that rivals more expensive machines.
The only real drawback is its weight – at 26 pounds, you won't be moving this machine around easily.
4. Best for Advanced Sewers: Baby Lock Brilliant
The Baby Lock Brilliant is a computerized machine that delivers professional results with features like automatic thread cutting and advanced embroidery capabilities, though it comes with a premium price tag around $1,500-2,000.
It excels at complex projects and saves time with its smart automation features that experienced sewers appreciate.
The high cost and learning curve for all its features make it overkill for casual sewers, but serious crafters will love what it can do.
5. Best Budget Pick: Janome Arctic Crystal
The Janome Arctic Crystal proves you don't need to spend a fortune to get reliable Japanese engineering, typically priced under $100.
It's a no-frills mechanical machine that focuses on straight stitches and zigzag patterns with consistent tension and smooth operation.
While it only offers basic stitches and lacks modern conveniences like automatic threading, its solid construction and dependable performance make it a great entry point into the trusted Janome brand.
6. Best Portable Sewing Machine: Singer M3500 Compact
The Singer M3500 Compact weighs just 12 pounds and includes a built-in carrying case, making it perfect for classes, retreats, or small apartments at around $120-150.
It still packs 32 built-in stitches and automatic needle threading despite its compact size, so you don't sacrifice much functionality for portability.
The smaller workspace and lighter construction mean it's not ideal for large projects or heavy fabrics, but it's unbeatable when you need to sew on the go.
7. Best for Quilting: Janome Skyline S6
The Janome Skyline S6 offers a spacious bed for large quilting projects and features like automatic thread cutting and the built-in AcuFeed system that guides fabric from both top and bottom, priced around $2,500-3,000.
It delivers consistent stitch quality and professional results that serious quilters love, though the higher price makes it a significant investment.
The premium cost is the main drawback, but quilters who want reliable performance and advanced features will find it worth the expense.
8. Best for Heavy-Duty Projects: Singer Heavy Duty 4452
The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 lives up to its name with a metal frame, powerful motor, and the ability to sew through leather, canvas, and denim without struggling, all for around $200-250.
It stitches up to 1,100 times per minute and includes heavy-duty needles and accessories right in the box.
While it's built tough, it can be quite loud during operation, and the strong motor might be too much power for delicate fabrics.
9. Best Computerized Sewing Machine: Janome Memory Craft 9850
The Janome Memory Craft 9850 offers computerized precision with features like stitch editing, memory storage, and a large color touchscreen that makes selecting stitches effortless, though it costs around $3,000-4,000.
It includes over 175 built-in stitches, automatic tension adjustment, and embroidery capabilities that produce professional results.
The high price and complex features make it overwhelming for beginners, but serious sewers will appreciate the advanced technology and consistent stitch quality.
10. Best Mechanical Sewing Machine: Bernette B35
The Bernette B35 combines Swiss engineering with straightforward mechanical controls, offering 23 stitches and reliable performance without electronic complications at around $200-300.
It provides consistent stitch quality, easy maintenance, and the durability that mechanical machines are known for, plus it won't break down from power surges or electronic failures.
The manual adjustments take more time than computerized machines, and it lacks automatic features like needle threading, but many sewers prefer the hands-on control it provides.
How to Choose the Right Sewing Machine for Your Skill Level
Your skill level should determine how many features you need and how much you're willing to spend on your machine. Here's what to consider for each level:
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Beginners: Look for machines with 10-25 basic stitches, automatic threading, and simple controls - you don't want to feel overwhelmed while learning
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Intermediate sewers: Choose machines with 50-100 stitches, adjustable speed control, and the ability to handle different fabric weights as your projects get more complex
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Advanced sewers: Consider computerized machines with 100+ stitches, embroidery capabilities, and professional features that match your ambitious projects
FAQ
What is the best sewing machine for making clothes?
The Brother CS7000X is excellent for sewing clothes because it has a good variety of stitches including stretch stitches for knits, plus features like automatic buttonhole and free arm for sleeves.
For more advanced clothing construction, the Janome Memory Craft series offers precise tension control and professional-quality stitches that handle everything from silk to denim.
What is the most trouble-free sewing machine?
Mechanical machines like the Bernette 35 or Janome Arctic Crystal are the most reliable because they have fewer parts that can break and don't rely on electronics that might fail.
These machines keep running for decades with just basic maintenance like oiling and cleaning, unlike computerized models that can develop software issues or circuit problems.
Is Singer or Brother a better sewing machine?
Both brands make quality machines, but Brother tends to offer more features for the money while Singer has a longer history and slightly better build quality in their higher-end models.
Your choice should depend on your specific needs and budget rather than brand loyalty, since both companies make machines that range from basic to professional grade.
What’s the difference between mechanical and computerized machines?
Mechanical machines use dials and levers to select stitches and adjust settings, while computerized machines use buttons and digital displays to control everything electronically.
Computerized machines offer more stitches, automatic features, and precision, but mechanical machines are simpler to use, easier to repair, and generally more reliable over time.
Can I use a beginner machine for quilting or heavy fabric?
Most beginner machines can handle light quilting and medium-weight fabrics, but they'll struggle with thick layers or heavy materials like canvas and leather.
If you plan to do serious quilting or work with heavy fabrics regularly, you'll need a machine with more power and a stronger motor, like the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 or Brother PQ1500SL.
