What to Look for in a Sewing Machine: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Shopping for a sewing machine can be completely overwhelming. There are hundreds of models out there, prices all over the map, and a lot of conflicting opinions on what actually matters.

I went through this myself when I bought my current machine, and I spent more hours researching than I'd like to admit. This guide covers everything I learned along the way, whether you're buying your very first machine or you're a seasoned sewist ready for an upgrade.

Mechanical vs. Computerized: Which Type Should You Buy?

There are two main types of sewing machines: mechanical and computerized. Here's the basic difference:

Mechanical sewing machines are simple, durable, and easy to learn on. You adjust stitch width and length with physical knobs. They tend to have metal parts, which makes them heavy but long-lasting, and there's less that can go wrong. The trade-off is that they lack modern conveniences like programmable stitch settings, automatic thread cutters, or needle-down position. If you want something basic and bulletproof, a mechanical machine could be the right fit.

Computerized sewing machines are smoother, quieter, and far more versatile. You control everything with buttons or a touchscreen, and the range of built-in stitches and automated features is impressive. The learning curve is steeper, but the convenience is hard to give up once you're used to it. Most modern computerized machines also have drop-in bobbins, which are easier to use than the front-loading style common on older mechanical machines.

My honest preference is computerized. The technology is there, so why not use it?

Already have a sewing machine? If you're looking to expand what you can do rather than just upgrade, consider buying a serger, coverstitch machine, or embroidery machine instead. A serger was one of the best investments I ever made for my sewing room. It makes finishing seams so much faster and the results look so professional.

How Much Should You Spend?

Sewing machines range from around $200 to over $18,000. You really do get what you pay for, and a cheap plastic machine will not last as long or perform as well as a quality one.

If you can budget between $1,000 and $2,000, I think you'll be very happy with what's available at that price point. I use the Bernette b79, which I bought for a little more than $2,000. It has every feature I've ever wanted and I have no plans to upgrade.

For beginners on a tighter budget, a good quality machine in the $200 to $400 range from Brother or Singer will absolutely get the job done while you're learning.

If money is truly no object, the best machines on the market are the high-end Bernina combination sewing and embroidery machines. They're extraordinary.

Which Brand Is Best?

Brand loyalty runs strong in the sewing community, and everyone has opinions! Online reviews are your best resource here since they give you real-world experiences from other sewists.

From my own experience across multiple machines, Bernina is my favorite brand for quality. For beginners, Brother machines offer excellent value and reliability. Janome also has a great reputation, especially for quilters.

Which Stitches Do You Actually Need?

You can find sewing machines with anywhere from 5 to 300+ built-in stitches. Don't be swayed by a high stitch count alone. In reality, you'll use a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch for the vast majority of your sewing. Everything else is a bonus.

Here are the stitches worth looking for:

Straight stitch: Look for one adjustable from 0 to 7mm (or ideally 9mm). The long end is great for basting and the 0mm setting locks stitches in place.

Zigzag stitch: Should be adjustable in both width and length. Compatible with a twin needle is a nice bonus.

Buttonhole stitch: An automatic buttonhole function is worth every penny. You place the button in the presser foot, press a button, and the machine creates the perfectly sized buttonhole for you.

Stretch stitch: Useful for knit fabrics when you need seams that truly stretch. The lightning bolt stitch or triple stitch achieves the same effect.

Blind hem stitch: For nearly invisible hems on pants and skirts.

My personal favorite stitch on my Bernette b79 is the lockstitch, which ties a knot in your thread so you never have to backstitch. It's one of those small features that makes a noticeable difference.

Features Worth Paying For

Beyond stitches, here are the features I'd prioritize when buying a sewing machine:

Automatic needle threader: Saves so much time when switching thread colors. If your machine doesn't have one, get a separate needle threader tool.

Needle up/down position: Lets you stop with the needle in the down position, which makes pivoting around corners and sewing curves so much faster.

Automatic thread cutter: Press a button and the machine trims the thread for you. Small convenience, but you'll use it constantly.

Adjustable speed control: Lets you set a maximum speed separate from the foot pedal. Very helpful for beginners and for free-motion quilting.

Knee lift: Lifts the presser foot hands-free. Wonderful for quilting and curves.

Feed dog release: Required for free-motion quilting.

Free arm: Makes sewing sleeves, cuffs, and pant legs much easier. Most machines have this, but confirm before you buy.

Built-in walking foot: Some machines have a dual feed system built in, which is great for knits and bulky fabrics.

Large throat space: If you plan to quilt, you want as much space to the right of the needle as possible.

Embroidery unit: Combination sewing and embroidery machines are increasingly popular. If you're interested in machine embroidery, buying a combo machine is much more cost-effective than buying two separate machines.

Presser Feet and Accessories

Most machines come with a basic set of presser feet (zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot). The more feet included, the better, because specialty feet like a rolled hem foot, Teflon foot, or walking foot can each cost up to $50 separately.

Most presser feet are interchangeable between low-shank machines, so if you upgrade later you can often bring your feet with you.

If possible, look for a machine that includes an extension table. It expands the flat sewing surface and makes managing larger projects much easier.

Where to Buy

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SewingMachinesPlus.com is a great online option. They sometimes discount machines by up to 70% when clearing inventory, and their prices are often lower than Amazon. Always compare both before you buy.

Sewing machine dealers let you try machines in person before committing, and some offer free classes with a purchase. The downside is the higher price and potential upselling. If you go this route, do your research first so you know what you're looking for.

Whatever you buy, make sure it comes with a warranty. Extended warranties through Amazon have saved sewists a lot of money when something goes wrong, and problems are more common when you're still learning.