With the development of technology, many tools have been upgraded to make the task less daunting and more convenient for users. If you get bored with the simple sewing projects and want to grow your sewing skills into something else, you can opt for computerized sewing machines.
But wait, why anyone wants to move from mechanical to computerized sewing machine?
Before digging deeper into the comprehensive list, you should find out what your current requirements are. The mechanical sewing machine helps you with basic and fewer stitches as well as fewer options for buttonhole. The moment you stop pressing the pedal, the needle will stop regardless of the position of the needle.
However, the mechanical sewing machine reminds me of my mother with the childhood memories when she tried to make me some new clothes. Also, the budget for this machine is lower than that of the computerized sewing machine.
With the advancing technology, tech-savvy sewers, especially experienced and younger generation, would prefer computerized sewing machines because of its versatility and automated features. If your project needs high production speed with decorative embroidery designs, sewing machine with computerized system can speed up productivity.
The confusion between computerized and mechanical sewing machine can be easily solved when you figure out the requirement of your project. However, regarding the productivity and versatility of the products, I highly recommend computerized sewing machines.
Table of Contents
Best Computerized Sewing Machine Comparison Chart
Following is the best part – the comparison chart to help you save time and energy. Make sure you understand the sewing machine very clearly before investing in it.
What Are The Best Computerized Sewing Machines?
- Best Overall: Brother CS6000i Computerized Sewing Machine
“Dual LEDs, portable, 60 built-in stitches, affordable, simple to use sewing and quilting machine” - Runner Up: Brother XR9550PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
“110 built-in stitches, oversized table for large project, large LCD screen” - Best Quilting: Singer 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine
“600 built-in sewing stitches, wide extension table, 850 stitches per minute, double needle setting, mirror imaging, Color LCD touch screen” - Best Budget: Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing Machine
“Quiet and quick, built-in flip chart stitches, smooth bobbin winding, 11 presser feet, affordable” - Best Beginners: Brother DZ2400 Computerized Sewing Machine
“Light weight, user-friendly, 130 built-in sewing stitches, flip chart for 55 alphanumeric stitches display” - Best Professionals: Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing Machine
“8” wide x 12-1/4” long work space, 255 built-in sewing stitches, 900 stitches per minute, lightweight to heavy weight materials, box feeding system” - Best Computerized with Embroidery: Brother SE400 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
“70 embroidery designs, 5 letter fonts” - Best Monogramming: Brother PC420PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
“294 built-in stitches, quick sewing speed, 11 presser feet, custom stitch design, knee lifter”
Top 13 Best Computerized Sewing Machine Reviews
1. Brother CS6000i Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Overall)
The name also suggests the function of itself, which features 60 built-in sewing stitches and 7 styles of one-step auto-size buttonhole. You can easily find the buttonhole tutorial and choose the style you want in this video clip.
Some specific features will speed up your sewing project including automatic needle threader, brightly lit area for sewing, and a detachable wide table mainly for large quilting projects.
However, if you feel overwhelmed with the functions you can read the Quick start guide (in English and Spanish version) and watch the tutorial DVD included.
In case you work with dark fabric, you might consider Brother CS6000i for its Dual Led feature, which is brighter than the normal LED lighting feature in other models.
Key Features
- LCD display
- Oversized table
- Easy bobbin winding
- Free arms
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 6 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 60 |
| Buttonhole styles | 7 |
| Knee Lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | No |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Wide working area
- Portable with hard machine case for protection
- Quiet and suitable light for sewing area
- Top-load bobbins with 60-second filling up
- 9 presser feet
Cons
- Tension problems
- Default needle position with needle to the left
2. Brother CS5055PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
The vertical spool pin guarantees smooth thread release when the stacked thread comes off the spool more easily and faster without getting caught in the thread holder.
This is a good machine for beginners with light weight to take to your sewing classes. Switching between 7 presser feet is easy and smooth.
To take the sewing to a new level, you can try the zipper foot and built-in zipper insertion stitch included in the box. These accessories make sure the stitching close to the edge and are as neat as possible.
Thick layers can be easily sewed to form precise stitches with an effective feed system.
Key Features
- Decorative and heirloom stitches
- One-step bobbin replacement
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 50 |
| Buttonhole styles | 5 |
| Knee lifter | Yes |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | No |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | No |
Pros
- Precise stitches through many layers or thick fabric
- Beginner friendly
- Easy to understand instruction manual
- Drop-in bobbin
Cons
- No hard case included
- Dim light
3. Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Budget)
The number of built-in sewing stitches is two-fold that of Brother CS6000i, which is 130 stitches. This model also consists of a detachable wide table and advanced needle threader.
Nevertheless, Brother HC1850 takes a step further to help users view all the built-in stitches with the handy flip chart. Either controlling the sewing functions with or without foot controller is feasible.
The box includes the presser feet and especially the accessory pouch to aid the flexibility and decorative pattern to your project.
Key Features
- Special quilting functions
- Detachable foot controller
- Free-motion quilting
Product Specifications
| Needle Threading System | Advanced |
| Built-in stitches | 130 |
| Buttonhole styles | 8 |
| Knee Lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Quiet and quick
- Built-in flip chart stitches
- Speed control for sewing
- With or without foot controller is possible
- Smooth bobbin winding
- 11 presser feet
Cons
- Easy to fall out power cord
- Confusing warranty period
4. Brother SE400 Computerized Embroidery and Sewing Machine
(Best Embroidery Beginner)
The 4X4 embroidery area can turn your creativity into beautiful home décor projects with sophisticated embroidery. Or else, connecting to your computer (windows), choose your favorite .pes files or .pen files, and start your project right away with the unique embroidery designs. You can use a Brother embroidery card slot or use the USB port and cable connect to your computer for downloading.
The touch screen LCD also features 70 built-in embroidery designs. This model is definitely suitable for experienced seamstresses who want to give the high-end look to the project.
This sewing and embroidery machine is full of desirable features from a wide range of embroidery designs to 7-point feed dog system for smooth feeding experience and the soft cover against dust.
Key Features
- One-touch automatic thread cutter
- 70 built-in embroidery designs
- Design editing features (rotate, mirror-images, increase and decrease designs’ sizes)
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Advanced |
| Built-in stitches | 67 |
| Buttonhole styles | 10 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | No |
| Free arm | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- 7-point feed dog system
- Spacious 4×4 embroidery area for decorative design
- Back-lit LCD touch screen
- Computer connectivity for design and fonts importing (Windows prefer)
- 5 pre-loaded lettering fonts
- Built-in storage compartment
- Adjustable speed control
Cons
- Limited 4×4 hoop size
- Needles keep breaking
5. Brother XR9550PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
(Runner Up)
This Project Runaway computerized sewing machine by Brother has a remarkable number of 110 built-in stitches to let your creativity run wild. Sewing enthusiasts can take on larger projects with the oversized wide table.
Relatively light weight accompanied with hard case, this model is perfect for traveling or bringing to classes. The large LCD screen displays the stitch selection and its setting, which can be adjusted with the push button.
The pressure feet is easy to change with 8 modes: zigzag, button sewing, overcasting, blindstitch, monogramming, and quilting feet. However, sewers must take special notice of the polarized plug.
Key Features
- Exceptional feed system
- Jam-resistant
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 6 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 110 |
| Buttonhole styles | 8 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- 110 built-in stitches
- 8 quick change presser feet
- Oversized table for large project
- Large LCD display screen
- Hard case with wide table
- Advanced easy needle threading system
Cons
- Not working needle threader
6. Brother DZ2400 Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Beginners)
The Designio Series features a set of designer accessories with an extension table. Brother DZ2400 is the first model among 6 machines in Designio Series which was released on 27th September 2013.
Brother DZ2400 and Brother XR9550PRW are similar in design with square shape but the initial model is lighter in weight. In fact, Brother DZ2400 is the lightest machine on our list. Right above the LCD display screen is the connected flip chart for alphanumeric stitches display.
Similar to Brother XR9550PRW, the advanced needle threader is easy to use just by pressing the lever on the side of the machine.
Key Features
- Variable speed control
- Start/stop button
- Needle position button
- Drop feed for free motion quilting
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 130 |
| Buttonhole styles | 8 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- 185 built-in stitches including 130 sewing and 55 alphanumeric stitches
- User friendly
- Wide expansion table
- Suitable for quilters
- Light weight
Cons
- No cover included
- Not suitable for heavy duty
7. Brother PC420PRW Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Monogramming)
The custom stitch feature enables sewing enthusiasts to come up with many more artistic designs and save them right inside the machine. Then, finish off with eleven presser feet. Take this model into consideration if your task mainly involves custom clothing.
You can take advantage of the thread cutter to save time for many more projects. To finish each task, program the trimmer to cut the upper and lower threads.
The sewing speed is pretty quick with 850 stitches per minute, pretty fast among the sewing machine. Furthermore, 294 built-in stitches – the remarkably high number among all the suggested machine ranges from utility, decorative, cross to satin stitches.
One bonus that sets Brother PC420PRW from Singer 9960 is the changeable presser foot presser. The sewer can decide to fine tune the pressure rather than depend on the automatic presser foot on the Singer 9960 machine.
The reverse or reinforcement button has two functions: reverse or reinforce stitching, which is dependent on the stitch that is selected. Turn to page 128 in the user manual for more information.
Key Features
- Thread cutters
- Twin needle feature
- Electronic variable speed control
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 6 |
| Needle Threading System | Advanced |
| Built-in stitches | 129 |
| Buttonhole styles | 10 |
| Knee lifter | Yes |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- 294 built-in stitches
- Quick sewing speed
- 11 presser feet
- My custom stitch feature
- Thread cutter
- Knee lifter
Cons
- Heavy
- Manual thread tension adjustment
8. Janome DC2014 Computerized Sewing Machine
One outstanding feature of this Japanese brand is the drop feed and free arm, which is highly beneficial for free motion sewing and quilting. To slower the feed dog, press the lever to the right. Otherwise, it will rise again.
Despite the fabric thickness or the multiple layers of fabric, the Janome DC2014 is capable of stitching smoothly with no jamming issue thanks to extra high presser foot lift. No skipped or loose stitches, quality guaranteed.
The maximum stitch length and width are 5mmx7mm, which is larger than the Schoolmate S3015 and 712T model. Long stitches make it suitable for thicker fabrics or multiple layers. Decorative embroidery is more visible with the long stitches, and hence, makes the clothing more aesthetically appealing.
Janome D2014 has the maximum sewing speed of 860 stitches per minute, which is higher than most of the recommended sewing machine for the faster project.
Key Features
- Snap-on pressure feet
- Locking stitch button
- Extra high pressure foot lift
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 50 |
| Buttonhole styles | 3 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes (locking stitch button) |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Free-arm feature
- No tension issue
- Effective 7-point feed dog system
- Quiet and high-quality stitching
- Superior feed system (SFS)
- Easy reverse button
- Memorized needle up and down
Cons
- The pedal sliding on the floor
- Limited number of built-in stitches with this price
- No speed modification while embroidering
9. Janome DC1050 Computerized Sewing Machine
Janome DC1050 has the same basic features as Janome DC2014 like 50 different stitches styles and 3 one-step button holes. However, the size of the initial model is a little bit smaller and the weight is around 10 pounds lighter.
While the latter model has automatic control with thread tension, the DC1050 model relies on manual control. The cover case is soft dust one compare to the hard cover of DC2014. If you prefer colorful cover, you can choose DC1050.
Another distinctive feature is the extra high presser foot lift which makes the quilting sandwich easier for hemming jeans. The stitch chart is in the front panel for user’s convenience.
Key Features
- Manual tension control
- One-hand needle threader
- Extra high presser foot lift
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 50 |
| Buttonhole styles | 3 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | No |
| Free arm | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Lighter for taking to classroom
- Extra high presser foot lift
Cons
- No free arm
- Thick materials issue
- Fabric bunched up in zigzag stitch
10. Janome Magnolia 7330 Computerized Sewing Machine
Being the most advanced machine in the Magnolia Line, Magnolia 7330 is loaded with drop feed system, the extra high presser foot lift, the superior feed system. All these features support sewing through several layers including thick fabric.
Similar to the other two mentioned Janome model, the maximum length and width is 5×7 and is highly adjustable with ease.
Right in the colorful front is the stitch guide is simple and easy to read. This model is similar to Janome DC2014 with the superior feed system – an effective solution for the most even, stable feeding experience even with thick materials.
Key Features
- Manual tension dial
- Stitch chart
- Easy navigation keys
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | Superior Feed System |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 30 |
| Buttonhole styles | 6 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Extra high presser foot lift
- Superior feed system (SFS)
- No tangled up thread
Cons
- Small short throat
- Storage on the free arm might be useless
- Pricey
11. Singer 7258 Computerized Sewing Machine
Singer 7258 is slightly lighter than Singer 9960. The metal frame sets this machine out from the list because this heavy frame brings the feeling of sturdy and durability.
By moving special needle plate, you can control drop feed. The Singer 7258 is time-efficient to select the optimum length and width with your chosen stitch.
But there are still more features just to shorten your devoted time. Choose the move the needle up or down when you pause when in the middle of appliqueing, quilting or pivoting fabric.
Key Features
- Optimum power control feature
- Start/stop button for speed control
- Error code displayed on LCD screen
- Heavy duty metal frame
- Twin needle function
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 6 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 100 |
| Buttonhole styles | 6 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Reverse stitch control
- Free arm with removable cover
- Top drop-in bobbin
- Programmable Needle up/down
- Lighter
Cons
- Short foot pedal cord
- Tension performance
12. Singer 9960 Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Quilting)
The sewer enthusiasts must be obsessed with the large number of stitches: 600 built-in stitches – the highest number one sewing machine can store.
This model has all the features listed in Singer 7258. Besides, the most frustrating thread tension issue can be either automatically adjusted or manually adjusted by the sewer.
More than decorative benefits, finish more professionally with double needle setting available in this model. Decorative and durable topstitching with electronic twin needle setting.
Singer 9960 separates two buttons: reverse sewing button and lock stitch button, whereas Brother PC420PRW combines two functions into one button: reverse/reinforcement button.
Upon reaching the end of the seam, either press the reverse button for just a few more stitches backward and forward or press the tack button for a locking stitch to tie off the stitch at the end of a pattern.
Key Features
- 2 LED lights
- Stitch editing feature
- Electronic twin needle
- Mirror imaging and elongation feature
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 600 |
| Buttonhole styles | 13 |
| Knee lifter | No |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | Yes |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- Double needle setting
- 7 segment box feed system
- Wide extension table
- 5 alphanumeric fonts
- Color LCD touch screen
Cons
- Automatic presser foot
- Can’t use the walking foot with quilting bar
- Plastic bobbin
13. Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing Machine
(Best Professionals)
Choosing the stitch pattern from the large LCD display is easy with 4 methods for pattern selection. With the first method, push the first button on the left for direct patterns. You can easily choose from the 10 most frequently used patterns.
For quilting enthusiasts, the snap-on work surface is 8” wide and 12-1/4” long. Moreover, this machine can save you more time than expected with the maximum sewing speed up to 900 stitches per minute – the fastest machine in our list.
Another addition is the box-feed technology. Normally, the feed mechanism is moving ovally. However, Juki HZL-F600 moves the feed dog in the square motion, which means the feed dogs stay in contact with the fabric longer and lead to consistent feed.
The foot controller can be used to cut the thread simply by pressing on the heel-side of the controller. The thread tension no longer bothers you because you can rely on automatic thread tension or just increase/decrease the tension manually.
Key Features
- Auto or manual tension control
- Combine, save and recall stitches
- Avanced thread trimming
Product Specifications
| Feed Dog Points | 7 |
| Needle Threading System | Automatic |
| Built-in stitches | 225 |
| Buttonhole styles | 16 |
| Knee lifter | Yes |
| Reinforcement/reverse Stitches | Yes |
| Free arm | No |
| Programmable Needle Up/Down | Yes |
Pros
- A spacious 8” wide x 12-1/4” long work space
- Lightweight to heavyweight materials
- 900 stitches per minute
- Drop-in bobbin system
- Box feed mechanism
- Exclusive foot controlled trimming system
Cons
- Loud
- Expensive
- Confusing for beginner
Buying Guide
The guide below will present some common questions you need to ask yourself before making the decision to buy a computerized sewing machine. Skip all the frustration and make it worth investing!
1. What Features to Look for in a Computerized Sewing Machine?
- Built-In Stitches
Consider the number of stitches you want to apply to your project. For the beginners, choosing between 30 or 600 built-in sewing stitches shouldn’t be a problem as you should go with the basic first.
However, for professionals who want to corporate new designs, catch up with the newest trend or create your own design, the highly recommend machine is the one with custom stitch design like in Brother PC420PRW or computer connected for design import like
Brother SE400.
- Thread Tension Control
This is the most problematic issue with sewing machine. There are two types for controlling thread tension: automatic or manual. However, that won’t make a big difference. First, read the manual for the best tension setting so the machine is threaded properly.
Try to adjust the tension suitable for your sewing habits. The automatic tension setting will help you to modify the tension depending on the type of fabric. However, at some points you probably want to change something.
- Auto Needle Threader
Save time on sewing needle with this function. Basically, the lever will secure the needle in the highest position. Then the thread will be put through the eye of a needle.
- One-Step Auto-Size Buttonhole
The presser foot sews the button hole in just one operation, which saves more time than 4-step buttonhole. Opt for auto-size foot or stitch width and length adjustment for fine-tune results.
- Maximum Sewing Speed
Most sewing machine has the adjustable feed control, which is a slider in Brother XR9550PRW, Singer 7258 to name a few. If it is too slow, you can slide the button toward higher speed. The maximum sewing speed in the list is Juki HZL-F600 with up to 900 stitches per minute.
2. What to Do If You Want to Repair or Return the Machine?
Before investing in the machine, check the warranty available for the whole machine or specific parts. In case any part is broken, take into account the shipping fee to the store. It can take time and money.
You preferably go to the store and check the sewing machine yourself. Otherwise, choose the retailers with good customer service in case you need any support and refund. Another solution is choosing reliable dealers nearby your home for convenience.
FAQs
Depending on your tasks, there might be numerous questions. Here are the top frequently asked questions regarding computerized sewing machine:
My Top Pick
Finally, after considering the features, dimensions, accessories and the price, my top pick is Brother CS6000i Computerized Sewing Machine. With 60 built-in sewing stitches, it is suitable for beginners to experienced seamstresses. Furthermore, the machine is portable and can be protected with the carrying case.
After reading through the guideline, hope you have the answers to some questions. Based on the features, you can decide on the best computerized sewing machine for yourself.
My choice is just the recommended option which takes into account the portability, easy-to-use features and automatic options of Brother CS6000i.
What do you think? Is there any other computerized sewing machine you want to add to the list? Just type in the comment section below and I will happily review it.
