Switching from a manual to a computerized sewing machine could seem nothing but hype, especially if you’ve been using the former for quite some time. However, all it takes is a glance to understand the advantages of using a modern product.
Computerized sewing machines can do more than controlling the thread tension and stitching onto autopilot mode. They can do more than providing higher quality stitches, too.
The best computerized sewing machines come with connectivity features that allow you to download new stitch patterns and programs to customize your work.
Some include tutorials and come with a number of training materials so that even beginners can learn how to sew quickly and easily.
Before buying, consider what you’d like the machine to do and how much you’re willing to invest.
Hobbyists may want a basic computerized sewing machine with fewer stitching patterns and programs.
Tailors and quilters may prefer a model packed with features and options.
No matter what you want to use it for, check out our reviews below to find the best computerized sewing machine for you.
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Elna Elnita ec60
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: Elna
- Model: ec60
- Weight: 17.11 pounds
- Dimensions: 18.4 x 14.9 x 11.2 inches
- Color: White/teal
Swiss-designed Elna sewing machines are recognized worldwide for their build quality and reliability, and the Elnita ec60 doesn’t disappoint. Perhaps the best computerized sewing machine for home and professional users alike, it comes with 60 preset stitch patterns, including six automatic buttonholes.
Perfect for all skill levels, it boasts an array of features. One of the most useful is the automatic thread cutter that, combined with the horizontal rotary hook, make it easy to turn the workpiece.
Another highlight is the extended free arm that makes sewing bulky fabrics a breeze. It may not be the best for quilting, but you can use it for sewing gowns, curtains, bedding, and other large items, thanks to the arm and removable extension table.
Using its digital functions is also a cinch. This sewing machine boasts beginner-friendly, simplified navigation keys and a large LCD screen where you can navigate through the various options or visualize your selections.
Ideal for beginner and advanced users, home or professional shops, the Elna Elnita ec60 brings outstanding value for money.
Brother CS6000i
- 60 Unique built-in stitches: The Brother CS6000i includes 60 built-in sewing...
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing and quilting machine...
- Included accessories: The CS6000i includes a hard protective case, wide table, 10...
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- Brand: Brother
- Model: CS6000i
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Dimensions: 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches
- Color: White
Amateurs looking for an affordable computerized sewing machine might like the Brother CS6000i. Similar to Elnita, but costing a fraction of the price, it is an excellent choice for hobbyists, beginners, and home users.
Like the Elna ec60, this sewing machine boasts 60 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative styles, as well as seven buttonhole patterns. It doesn’t allow you to upload new designs, but the ones it offers are more than enough to get started.
We also like the built-in extension table that makes it perfect for bulky projects. Furthermore, the machine comes with nine sewing and quilting feet that make it easy to tackle all sorts of tasks.
Four intuitive navigation buttons and a 2-inch LCD screen make it easy to browse through the various functions and set the desired sewing pattern and speed. Other highlights include an automatic needle threader and jam-resistant, drop-in bobbin.
Dependable, affordable, and easy to use; this is one of the best computerized sewing machines for beginners or sewists on a budget.
Janome 4120QDC
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- Brand: Janome
- Model: 4120QDC
- Weight: 22.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 19 x 10 inches
- Color: White
Whether you have a workshop or want to transform your hobby into a side gig, the Janome 4120QDC could be the best computerized sewing machine for you. This model is similar to the Elna ec60 in that it comes with a removable extension table that makes it very easy to sew bulky fabrics.
That said, the 4120QDC stands out with 120 built-in stitch patterns that vary from decorative to utility.
Thanks to this feature, you can use this sewing machine for a wide range of projects, including monogramming, quilting, sewing clothes and gowns, and bedding, to name just a few.
Handy functions include an automatic needle threader, thread cutter button, jam-proof top-loading bobbin, and a precision tension dial. Reaching a speed of up to 820 stitches per minute, it is perfect for high-volume work and busy environments.
Brother CS5055
- 60 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The Brother CS5055 sewing machine includes 60 built-in...
- IMPROVED NEEDLE THREADER: Easier than ever to use, the automatic needle threader...
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The CS5055 includes 7 sewing feet, 4 bobbins, a needle set, a...
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: Brother
- Model: CS5055
- Weight: 13.9 pounds
- Dimensions: 16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches
- Color: White
The Brother CS5055 is an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned home users. It may not bring the same amount of built-in stitches as the Jerome, but the 60 stitches it includes are more than enough for most needs.
Like all Brother sewing machines, this one is very intuitive to use and comes with comprehensive instructions. We particularly like that you can program the needle to stop in either up or down position. This feature makes it easier to turn bulky fabrics when quilting, for example, but also change the needle whenever needed.
Another highlight is the incorporated LED light. Sure, it isn’t the brightest light out there, but it will still make it easier to spot mistakes than no light at all.
Something we’d change is the LCD screen that is very small and isn’t backlit. You can still read the stitch choices and lengths easily in bright light but might struggle if you’re working in lower light conditions. Apart from these slight flaws, this machine makes sewing a cinch. Just perfect if you want a dependable unit but don’t want to break the bank.
Juki HZL-LB5020
- 20 Stitch Patterns, LCD Screen, Auto Needle threader
- 7 Point Feed Dog System, Variable Speed Override, 1 Step Button Hole
- Needle Up / Down Positioning, Free Arm sewing, Drop in style of Bobbin,
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: Juki
- Model: HZL-LB5020
- Weight: 18.1 pounds
- Dimensions: 19.02 x 14.49 x 10 inches
- Color: White
Juki is mostly known for its dependable, industrial-sized sewing machines, but if you want a no-frills computerized sewing machine to use at home, the HZL-LB5020 might be it. Although it looks expensive at first glance, this unit is made to last and provides the high-quality stitches you’d expect from the brand.
Perhaps the first thing you’ll notice is the lack of dozens of built-in patterns. Indeed, this sewing machine only comes with 20 built-in stitches, and you won’t be able to upload other designs. However, the brand included all those stitches you’re most likely to use, and you will still be able to choose between utility and decorative options.
Despite the lower number of stitches, we like how easy you can use the machine. You won’t have to worry about changing the stitch length or anything else – the sewing machine does everything by itself.
As you’d expect from a modern sewing machine, you’ll also get an automatic needle threader and easy-change bobbin design.
Another highlight is the bright LED light that allows you to continue working in low light conditions even if you don’t turn on the lights in your room. We also like the convenient ruler on the side that makes it easy to measure the lengths of fabric.
We already mentioned this isn’t the cheapest sewing machine on the market. Still, if you’re looking for a dependable computerized unit for your clothes repair shop, this model lives up to expectations.
Brother SE600
- 80 Built-in designs: The SE600 comes with 80 built-in designs and 6 embroidery...
- Automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin: This sewing and embroidery combo...
- 103 Built-in sewing stitches: This machine features 103 sewing stitches including 10...
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- Brand: Brother
- Model: SE600
- Weight: 11.82 pounds
- Dimensions: 21.18 x 15.51 x 16.54 inches
- Color: White
The Brother SE600 is the best computerized sewing machine for fashion designers, sewists, and hobbyists who want to use their unit for both sewing and embroidery. Not only does it come with 108 built-in stitches, but you’ll also get 80 embroidery designs – all for a more than an affordable price tag.
Our favorite feature is the expanded embroidery design-editing feature that allows you to change thread colors, place letterings in an arc, alter the models, and even upload new designs. The stitching patterns also include a wide range of utility, decorative, and buttonhole options.
Another thing we like is the big LCD touchscreen that makes it very easy to select the design or pattern and bring any changes.
At 720 stitches per minute, this sewing machine isn’t the fastest out there. Nevertheless, it still allows you to tackle high-volume projects. We wouldn’t recommend it if you’re mostly into utility work – such as repairing clothes – but if you’re the creative kind interested in embroidery, monogramming, and the like, this sewing machine is worth every dime.
SINGER 7258
- Adjustable sewing speed
- Push button stitch selection;This mechanism incorporates a magnet type vertical axis...
- LCD screen clearly displays your selected stitch as well as stitch settings for...
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: SINGER
- Model: 7258
- Weight: 14.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 14.5 x 7.5 x 12 inches
- Color: White
Nicknamed “the Stylist,” the SINGER 7258 is one of the best choices for tailors and fashion designers. Its most remarkable feature is the high number of built-in stitches – 100, to be precise, 70 of which are decorative. Besides those, you’ll also get utility and elastic stitches, as well as six 1-step buttonholes.
Like most modern computerized sewing machines, this one is intuitive to use. Highlights include an automatic bobbin winding clutch and a needle threader. Furthermore, you can choose from 13 needle positions and even use twin needles.
We particularly like the auto tie-off function that helps you sew in a straight line. Other features include the see-thru bobbin case and the drop-down needle position that makes pivoting the fabric a breeze.
A real workhorse, this sewing machine also brings heavy-duty capability. It can easily sew bulky and thick fabrics, including quilts, tulle, and denim. Whether you’re making garments, fashion accessories such as handbags, or want an all-round sewing machine for your arts and crafts, the SINGER 7258 delivers.
Janome 3160QDC
- - 60 Built-In Sewing Stitches and 6 Built-In Buttonholes - Built-In Automatic Needle...
- - Jam Proof Easy-Set Top-Loading Bobbin System - It's Easy To Change Your Bobbin....
- - Handy Function Buttons - The Thread Cutter Button will Cut Both the Top and Bottom...
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: Janome
- Model: 3160QDC
- Weight: 20.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 19.8 x 12 x 16 inches
- Color: White
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your old sewing machine with a computerized one or want to buy your first sewing machine for business, the Janome 3160QDC could be your best bet. It might not be the cheapest out there, but it brings everything a new business needs.
Its most significant advantage is undeniably its outstanding built quality. You can expect this sewing machine to stay by your side for decades.
Ideal for clothes repair shops, bag and shoemakers, and other businesses that don’t require endless decorative stitch options, the 3160QDC incorporates 60 built-in stitches and six buttonholes. That’s half as many as its bigger brother – the 4120QDC – has, but the price tag isn’t as steep.
Design-wise, the 3160QDC is relatively compact and fits well in smaller shops. It comes with built-in storage and accepts an extension table, although it doesn’t come with one.
Perfect for professional use, it boasts a speed of 820 stitches per minute, and the automatic functions are easy to operate.
Janome C30
- 30-Stitches including Memory Buttonhole
- Easy Convenience, computerized Buttons - Easy Reverse, Locking Stitch, and Needle...
- Removable Storage Compartment for Free Arm Sewing
// Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Brand: Janome
- Model: C30
- Weight: 14.27 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 6.4 x 11 inches
- Color: White/Fuchsia
Built with home users in mind but also perfect for professionals on a budget or beginners, the Janome C30 comes as an alternative to the QDC series machines.
The main difference between it and the other Janome machines on our list is the presence of fewer built-in stitches for this model – 30, to be exact. You’ll still be able to choose from a range of utility and decorative patterns, as well as some buttonholes, but you won’t get the versatility seen in other models.
A simple control panel and large display make it a cinch to operate. Indeed, using this machine is so simple that it’s even perfect for big kids and teens.
Some of its features include speed control, needle up or down stop, easy reverse mode, and locking stitch.
As you’d expect from a last-generation computerized sewing machine, you’ll also get LED light and drop feed function for quilting. Cheaper than most Janome machines and dependable, it is an excellent first choice for apprentices or professionals on a budget.
Tips for Choosing the Best Computerized Sewing Machine
Computerized sewing machines give you the possibility to automate and speed up the sewing process. They’re an excellent choice for professional sewists, designers, quilters, as well as crafters, and hobbyists.
Stitching Options
The main advantage of computerized sewing machines is their built-in stitching options. Whether you want to create unique garments, embroidery, or sew decorative patterns on quilts, you’ll have plenty of choices. High-end sewing machines give you anywhere between 100 and 250 different stitches, including letters for monogramming and even embroidery patterns.
Most tailors and sewists are perfectly happy with sewing machines with around 60 built-in stitches. These models comprise numerous utility and elastic patterns needed to sew all sorts of garments, curtains, and bedding but still allow you to decorate your creations with decorative stitches. Not to mention they all come with at least six buttonhole patterns.
Beginners – or clothes repair shops – could do just fine with an entry computerized sewing machine. The simplest models have around 20 built-in stitches, most of them for utility or elastic sewing, but also some decorative and buttonhole options.
Automatic Buttonholes
Although all computerized sewing machines come with built-in buttonhole options, not all of them automatically make the right size buttonholes. However, many of the best computerized sewing machines come with an attachment that measures the size of the buttons you plan to use and inputs the data into the machine’s computer. Thanks to this feature, you won’t have to select the stitch length manually and can minimize errors.
Overall Automation
The whole purpose of buying a computerized sewing machine is to make your life easier, and automation matters, especially when dealing with high volumes of work. Almost all digital sewing machines on the market have automatic needle threader, but some of them take the automation process to a whole new level.
High-end computerized sewing machines can do everything on their own, from feeding the fabric with no help at all to changing the stitching direction without intervention from your side. They are great for factories and busy shops, but designers and crafters can also use all these automation benefits.
Sure, the less intervention it requires, the more expensive the sewing machine will be. For hobby or occasional use, a sewing machine with a needle threader and easy bobbin change could suffice. For high-volume work, a fully automated computerized sewing machine is worth every dime.
Connectivity
Connectivity features are essential if you want to upload new stitch patterns or embroidery designs. Not all computerized sewing machines can connect to a PC or the internet, though. Thus, this is something to consider before buying, especially if you’d like to upload custom patterns.
Display
All computerized sewing machines have some kind of display. Unless the machine you want is designed for sewing and embroidery, chances are you’ll end up with a fairly small display. However, you’ll still be able to control what type of stitch you’re using, its length, and density.
Cheaper sewing machines usually have a standard control panel with buttons that allow you to make your selections.
Higher-end models come with larger touchscreens – typically 4 by 4 inches – that display more information, giving you the possibility to edit the monogramming or embroidery designs.
Max Speed and Speed Control
Another thing to check before buying a computerized sewing machine is the max speed and the speed control it offers.
Professional sewing machines often reach speeds of around 820 stitches per minute or higher. Mid-range and entry models rarely exceed 750 stitches per minute, but a fast machine isn’t necessarily better. Indeed, a slower sewing machine gives you more control over the fabric and is recommended for beginners.
Regarding speed control, some digital sewing machines come with integrated features that allow you to set the speed from the control panel. This feature eliminates the need for a foot pedal, which is how you can control the speed on manual sewing machines.
Manual vs. Computerized Sewing Machine. Which One to Buy?
Computerized sewing machines come with many advantages over the manual kind, but they are also more expensive. A few things to consider before dropping your hard-earned money include your purpose and technology skills.
Purpose
What kind of sewing projects do you plan to take on? If you are mostly doing basic tasks, such as sewing pieces of fabric together with a simple utility stitch or mending and altering garments, a manual sewing machine will do just fine and save you some money.
On the contrary, if you plan to customize clothes, uniforms, hotel bedding and towels, restaurant napkins, and tablecloths, sew embroidery on garments, or make quilts, a computerized sewing machine is what you need.
Basic computerized sewing machines with few built-in stitches and letters are perfect for monogramming or personalizing uniforms with employee or brand names.
Sewing and embroidery machines allow you to make appliques and other decorative items in a breeze. Most models allow you to edit the designs and upload new ones, making these sewing machines the most versatile on the market.
Likewise, sewing and quilting machines come with specific quilting stitches and have longer arms, allowing you to sew and maneuver bulky items easier.
Operation Ease
Nowadays, manufacturers assume everyone is a technology pro and cram loads of features into their digital sewing machines. However, not all models were created equal. Some are really intuitive to use and come with standard control panels. Two to four buttons allow you to select the desired stitch pattern, length, density, and speed.
Other sewing machines come with touchscreens and no buttons. Navigating through their menus and setting them up could be complicated if you’re not used to the technology.
Aside from the type of controls and versatility, also consider your overall skill level and budget. Beginners may find a super-tech digital sewing machine overwhelming to operate. In most cases, a model with 20 built-in stitches and a simple control panel is your best bet for newbies. These models are also perfect for kids and teens who want to learn how to use a computerized sewing machine, not to mention that these basic models are the cheapest.
If money isn’t an issue and you’re a tech geek accustomed to all kinds of software, a high-end model with over 60 built-in stitches, embroidery patterns, and fully automated features can easily satisfy you.
