The Best Brother Sewing Machine Models – Our Top Picks
Gone are the days when sewing was associated with our grandmother’s Brother sewing machine. Crafting has hit a resurgence in popularity recently, which is great for everyone. Not only is sewing a great way to relax and unwind after a long day, but it also provides you the opportunity to make specialized gifts for your loved ones. Although you can sew by hand, a sewing machine is much more practical.
Not just any sewing machine will do, though. You have to buy a great one, which means you need a Brother sewing machine, too.
Why Purchase a Brother Sewing Machine?
If you are new to sewing (or haven’t owned a sewing machine in over ten years), you’ll be fascinated at what modern sewing machines can do. First of all, the majority of contemporary sewing machines now have LCDs. That makes it much easier to select the stitches you want to use as well as adjusting your stitch width and length. Some sewing machines even can embroider as well. Many of these machines allow you to connect to your computer so that you can make your own embroidery designs for the perfect customized gift.
If all of those options sound like a bit too much for you, there is no need to worry. Brother also has some fantastic simple sewing machines available that simple to use, but still very helpful when it comes to sewing projects. The sewing machines we reviewed for this article can help with a wide range of projects. There are sewing machines for quilters, embroiderers, people who sew for an income, and people who sew as a hobby. Regardless of what you need a sewing machine for, chances are you’ll find a perfect one on our list.
Price Ranges
One of the great things about a Brother sewing machine is they are all affordable.
Like with most purchases you make, the more you spend, the more you’ll get. The basic brother sewing machine is similar to older styles. It has ten built-in stitches, which will allow you to sew most projects such as stuffed animals, clothing, draperies, and quilts.
The most expensive brother sewing machine on our list can do anything you would ever need a sewing machine to do. It has 67 built-in stitches, five lettering fonts, and over 50 integrated embroidery designs. Even for the part-time crafter, this machine is a great deal. It will allow you to save money on any kind of customization such as sports uniforms, work uniforms, backpacks, etc. Gift giving will be a new joy when you can make custom presents for all the loved ones in your life.
Our Top Choices
Brother has been in business for 110 years. In May of 2017, they manufactured their 60 millionth home sewing machine. When a company has been around for such a long time, they are usually pretty good at what they do. Brother stands behind all their sewing machines with a 25-year limited warranty. Here are our top 10 choices (in no particular order) that you should consider for your new Brother sewing machine.
Brother Sewing Machine CS6000i
The Brother CS6000i sewing machine offers a wide range of options for both quilting and sewing projects. There is room in the arm of the sewing machine for you to store accessories, so you never have to worry about losing those little bits and bobs. The LCD allows you to adjust your stitch length and width as well as select one of the 60 different stitches. Although it comes with a foot pedal, there is a start/stop button which allows you to use the sewing machine without this. There is also a speed control which allows you to adjust the speed of the machine to a level that is comfortable for you. It also has a quick-set drop bobbin. That means that you don’t have to go fishing for your thread ever again.
[amazon_link asins=’B000JQM1DE|B000JQM1DE|B000JQM1DE’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
There were many reviews from beginners who loved how easy it is to use the machine; there were some complaints about the seams coming undone though.
[amazon_link asins=’B000JQM1DE|B000JQM1DE|B000JQM1DE’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Brother Sewing Machine CS5055PRW
This model is the special Project Runway model. It has 50 stitches to choose from which you can use for creating your clothing as well as quilting. This model also has six specialty feet and specialty needles that can be used for a variety of projects and comes with an arm for sewing sleeves and cuffs. There are five buttonhole settings which automatically size holes to fit specific size buttons. It has easy threading options for the thread and bobbin.
[amazon_link asins=’B005GXPOCK|B005GXPOCK|B005GXPOCK’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B005GXPOCK|B005GXPOCK|B005GXPOCK’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
People rave about the accurate stitches and how easy it is to dial in. There are some complaints about the tension on the sewing machine when making things like blankets.
Brother Sewing Machine SE400
[amazon_link asins=’B003AVMZA4|B003AVMZA4|B003AVMZA4′ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B003AVMZA4|B003AVMZA4|B003AVMZA4′ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
The Brother SE400 is the most expensive sewing machine on our list, and it is worth every penny. You can quilt, embroider, and sew with this machine. It has a touchscreen LCD screen which allows you to select from the 67 sewing stitches, five fonts, and 70 built-in embroidery designs. If you can’t find an embroidery design you like from the built-in ones, no need to fear! This brother sewing machine has a computer connectivity function. This means that you can hook your sewing machine up to your computer and download embroidery designs from a variety of sites online, some of which allow you to make your own custom designs as well.
Both experts and beginners love this machine and all the options it provides. There are some reviews from people who have problems with the needle becoming misaligned.
Brother Sewing Machine XM2701
This Brother sewing machine has 62 stitch functions and 27 built-in stitches including blind hem, decorative, zigzag, and stretch stitches. It also has a one-step auto-size buttonholer which will work for almost all buttons. The six quick change sewing feet allow you to quickly sew zippers, buttonholes, blind stitches, a narrow hem and more. The built-in needle threader and jam-resistant bobbin make this machine easy to use for anyone who is a little technically challenged.
[amazon_link asins=’B00JBKVN8S|B00JBKVN8S|B00JBKVN8S’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B00JBKVN8S|B00JBKVN8S|B00JBKVN8S’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Customers say this is a great machine for beginners, although there were some complaints about the foot pedal speed.
Brother Sewing Machine XR3774
[amazon_link asins=’B00MNS60AQ|B00MNS60AQ|B00MNS60AQ’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
The XR3774 Brother sewing machine is lightweight and has a beautiful light blue and flower design. It is perfect for newbies and advanced crafters. This sewing machine has 37 built-in stitches, including decorative, blind hem, and quilting. The extra wide table is ideal for large projects like quilts and blankets. If sewing clothes are more your style you’ll be happy to know that it also comes with a free arm that you can use for sewing sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs. It also includes an instructional DVD that shows how to do everything from threading the sewing machine to sewing on buttonholes.
[amazon_link asins=’B00MNS60AQ|B00MNS60AQ|B00MNS60AQ’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
People love how easy it is to thread and learn to use, but it does seem to have problems with skipping stitches occasionally.
Brother Sewing Machine HC1850
This Brother sewing machine has some great features. It is perfect for quilting, sewing, and monogramming. It has 130 built-in stitches and eight different styles of buttonholes. There are also 55 stitches specifically for monogramming. It has a built-in stitch reference flip chart so you won’t have to worry about finding the guide anytime you have a question about the different stitches. The quilting features allow you to add an extra wide table (which comes with the sewing machine) and also allows for free motion quilting. The detachable foot controller and adjustable sewing speed give you plenty of options for how to operate the machine in a way that is most comfortable for you.
[amazon_link asins=’B008G1DJ9Y|B008G1DJ9Y|B008G1DJ9Y’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
People love the cost of this machine in relation to all the features it comes with. Some of the machines do seem to experience problems with the foot pedal.
[amazon_link asins=’B008G1DJ9Y|B008G1DJ9Y|B008G1DJ9Y’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Brother Sewing Machine CX155LA
The CX155LA Brother sewing machine is their special Laura Ashley limited edition machine. It has 155 built-in stitches, eight one-step auto-size buttonhole options, and one font. This sewing machine is great for people who feel inspired to make their own home decor. The wide range of stitches are perfect for curtains and throw pillows. The blind hem stitch makes practically invisible hems on curtains and blankets. The jam resistant quick set drop-in top bobbin and advanced needle threading system means you don’t have to struggle just to get the sewing machine set up.
Customers like the variety of stitches that come programmed in this model. There were reported issues with the needle threader.
[amazon_link asins=’B00G3K83DC|B00G3K83DC|B00G3K83DC’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B00G3K83DC|B00G3K83DC|B00G3K83DC’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Brother Sewing Machine XM1010
This Brother sewing machine is the most affordable on our list. This is a pretty basic sewing machine but is perfect for a beginner or part-time sewing enthusiast. It has ten built-in stitches including stretch stitches, zigzag and blind hem. The four auto-size buttonholes mean that you can easily make projects that use the most common sized buttons available. This model comes with an easy to use stitch selector dial, automatic bobbin winder, and a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin.
[amazon_link asins=’B01FY3AGM4|B01FY3AGM4|B01FY3AGM4′ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
People who purchased this machine say that it is sturdy and robust, but encourage beginners to watch the instructional DVD that is included with it.
[amazon_link asins=’B01FY3AGM4|B01FY3AGM4|B01FY3AGM4′ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Brother Sewing Machine ST371HD
The ST371HD Brother is advertised as a heavy duty sewing machine, and it certainly looks like one. While this model resembles older sewing machines and is lacking in some of the prettiness of other models on this list, it has some great features. There are 37 stitches programmed into this sewing machine, for both decorative sewing and utility sewing. That means that on top of your standard projects you can also make items from jeans, canvas, burlap, leather, and suede. Additionally, it comes with a #14 needle for sewing layers of fabric, a #16 needle for heavyweight fabrics, and #11 needle for everyday sewing of lightweight materials. This model also has six different feet included. The nonstick foot is excellent when working with fabrics like vinyl, leather, and suede.
[amazon_link asins=’B01E54NNSC|B01E54NNSC|B01E54NNSC’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B01E54NNSC|B01E54NNSC|B01E54NNSC’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
This machine received rave reviews for its ability to sew thicker materials. Some people were unhappy that the machine is made out of plastic.
Brother Sewing Machine DZ2400
This Brother sewing machine is marketed towards people who have some experience with sewing. It has 185 built-in stitches including 55 alphanumeric stitches. The advanced needle threading system means all you have to do is press a lever on the side of the sewing machine and your thread will be pushed through the eye of the needle. The extra wide table is perfect for quilts, clothing, and draperies. The LCD makes selecting your settings a breeze. The eight automatic buttonhole styles mean that you’ll be able to create projects using virtually any kind of buttons with ease.
[amazon_link asins=’B00EJW543I|B00EJW543I|B00EJW543I’ template=’ImageLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
[amazon_link asins=’B00EJW543I|B00EJW543I|B00EJW543I’ template=’ButtonLink’ store=’sewingmachineexpress_us-20|sewingmachineexpress_ca-20|sewingmachineexpress_uk-21′ marketplace=’US|CA|UK’]
Customers love how easy it is to set up. Although some people did have issues with the automatic threader not working correctly, most people love the sewing machine.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Owning a Sewing Machine
There are a number of advantages to owning your own sewing machine. Below are some of the main benefits of having a sewing machine in your home:
You can save a lot of money
Making your own clothing, sheets, and curtains using a sewing machine is a lot cheaper than buying them at a store. All you need is some nice fabric and you can create many new, unique items for your home without it costing a lot.
If you have accidentally ripped your favorite item of clothing, you can easily repair it using your sewing machine. This saves you from having to spend money on buying new clothes.
You can customize your clothes and follow trends
Sometimes it can be hard to find the perfect item of clothing that fits you. However, if you own your own sewing machine, you can easily adjust sizes of things so that they suit you and fit you.
You can also stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends without spending a lot of money. As a bonus, you can create one-of-a-kind clothing items that are unique to your personal style.
You can fix your clothes
Old and unused clothes can be re-used by adjusting them to a different size, or by completely transforming them into a new piece of clothing. This can save you lots of money because you can easily re-purpose your old clothes and create something brand new.
You can earn some extra cash
Once you get the hang of sewing on your sewing machine, you could easily start a small garment business or a clothing repair business, and this can all be done from the comfort of your own home. This is an easy way to earn a bit of extra cash and it’s great if you enjoy the act of sewing.
You can improve your mental health
Using a sewing machine is not only good for your wallet but it’s also good for your own personal health, too. As you increase your sewing skills, you increase your ability to focus, plus, you can also improve your hand-eye coordination. This helps to keep your brain active and strong and can even help to prevent age-related illnesses such as dementia. Sewing is also a great way to relieve stress, which helps to ward off many other types of diseases.
You will be more creative and have a sense of accomplishment
Learning the art of sewing will enable you to tap into your inner creative skills. Plus, you will feel very proud of yourself, as you can create a lot of unique things that are completely your own style.
Which Brother Sewing Machine Is The Best Choice?
Honestly, this all depends on what kind of projects you’ll be using your sewing machine to make. If you are a casual crafter who wants to make some doll clothes, pillows or simple blankets that the XM2701 model would be perfect for you. If you are a professional seamstress who spends hours a day sewing, then you should look into one of the more expensive models. They can provide you with the kind of options you might be looking for. Regardless of which Brother sewing machine you choose, you can rest assured knowing that you are buying from a long-lasting company who has a fantastic warranty and great customer service.
Happy sewing!