The Brother brand feels like part of the family, as they have been a staple in the sewing and creation community for generations – since the 50s to be exact!
I’ve spent many years with different and best sewing machine brands, including those from the Brother line, and Brother machines can indeed compete with top leading brands.
Rather than you wading through a sea of Brother sewing machine reviews, join me on this comprehensive journey to find you the best Brother sewing machine!
Top Sewing Machines From The Review
Top Pick
Brother HC1850
Comes with a wide range of easy-to-use elements and computerized sewing machine features to make the sewing and embroidery experience easy.
Brother HC1850
The HC1850 secures the overall top pick for me, as I find it comes with a range of elements that improve the sewing experience.
These include an automatic needle threader and number of built-in decorative stitches – 130 to be exact!
Best for the Beginners
Brother GX37
Makes everyday creations a breeze thanks to its range of features, 37 built in designs, and one step buttonholes for total tailorability.
Brother GX37
Purely for ease of use, I would recommend the GX37 for beginners.
It has just enough features to create work, without all the bells and whistles that could confuse or overwhelm those who may not know their way around the best sewing machine.
Best for Heavy Fabrics
Brother CS6000I
Ideal for those looking for a backup machine, as I know many sewers that use it for that very purpose and love it.
Brother CS6000I
The Brother CS6000I is best for heavy fabrics in my eyes, as it was built with designing in mind.
The feed system is strong, an automatic needle threader makes work easy, and the needles and presser feet are strong and durable.
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Cord
- Weight: 13.6 Pounds
Pros
- Extension table increases sewing work area and is easy to use
- Automatic needle threader
- Carry case
Cons
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
Best for Quilting
Brother XR3340
An amazing Brother machine for quilting, and this quilting and sewing machine comes with a range of features perfect for all levels.
Brother XR3340
The XR3340 is another sewing machine that has ease of use elements to improve the experience.
There are 140 built in stitches to choose from, a large LCD screen, and automatic needle threader systems to help you out.
Best Brother Sewing Machines
Brother SE600 Sewing Machine
Great for any user regardless of skill level which makes it ideal for beginners.
Brother SE600 Sewing Machine
Brother SE600 can be a computerized sewing and quilting machine for a lifetime, thanks to the 25 year limited warranty that comes as standard. It’s also great for applique finishes, as you’ll see in my review here.
So, it can grow with users regardless if they have years of experience under their belt or not. Because of this, the Brother SE600 could be the perfect beginner sewing machine.
Features
This sewing machine has a wide range of features that meets many different sewing needs. It’s easy to get started regardless of experience – this doesn’t have to be Project Runway!
The best sewing and embroidery can be done with this sewing machine thanks to the many stitch functions that can be selected in one step.
Feet
With seven presser feet included, the Brother SE600 has an ease of use element that makes issues with bobbin winding for example, a thing of the past.
Brother SE600 gives users 80 designs to choose from and 103 built in stitches that can be used with the 4 X 4 embroidery hoop easily.
Needle Threader
Speaking of easy, the automatic needle threading system does the hard work so you don’t have to, which can really save you time in the long term.
The 3.7” Sew Smart color LCD screen makes stitch and feature selection easy and again brings another layer to the ease of use of the overall machine.
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Treadle Cord
- Dimensions: 21.18 x 15.51 x 16.54 inches
- Weight: 11.8 Pounds
Pros
- Custom import of designs via USB port
- LCD display
- 4 x 4 embroidery hoop
Cons
- Heavy, not as portable as some others
Best for Quilting
Brother XR3340 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
An amazing Brother machine for quilting, and this quilting and sewing machine comes with a range of features perfect for all levels.
Brother XR3340 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
I am featuring this again for those that may not have seen my post about the best embroidery machines for a home business.
Function
The XR3340 is an amazing Brother machine for quilting projects, and this quilting and sewing machine comes with a range of features perfect for all levels.
I would normally recommend XR3340 sewing machines for quilters who will use the free motion quilting feature.
Additionally, the easy to use automatic needle threader makes threading simple so you can get to sewing ASAP.
LCD and Designs
There is also an extra large, backlit LCD screen allowing you to choose from many monogramming fonts and 140 built in stitches.
Those who like an adaptable work area will love the extra wide table that comes with the sewing machine to give you a bit more sewing space.
Portability
If you want a portable sewing machine then this may not be for you.
Or, you will need to purchase a case or bag separately as one does not come with the sewing machine as standard.
Specs
- Power Source: Power Cord
- Dimensions: 20.25 x 16 x 14 inches
- Weight: 19.76 Pounds
- Stitch Speed: 850 Per Minute
Pros
- Included table increases sewing space
- Automatic threader
- Free motion feature
- Crystal clear screen
Cons
- Stitch Speed not that fast
- Thread cutters can cut sewing thread short
- No Bag
- No Foot Pedal
Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine
Allows users to create at a leisurely pace rather than rushing through designs.
Brother PE800 Embroidery Machine
This is another Brother machine I’ve featured on many reviews and lineups, as it would basically be criminal to create any kind of Brother article and not include the PE800. Many consider it the successor to the Brother PE770.
Function
The embroidery only unit is in the running for the best sewing machine from Brother, as it allows users to create at a leisurely pace rather than rushing through designs.
650 stitches a minute is more than enough sewing speed for users of all levels of experience to create standard or limited edition works with ease.
LED
Those who like to work with bright units will like the lit LED work option that can come with the ultra illuminating bulbs that come featured.
The 4X4 embroidery hoop allows creations to be completed with ease, especially for those just starting out in the world of embroidery in particular.
Designs
If you are someone used to working with embroidery patterns or designs, you can choose from the 138 built in embroidery designs included, or simply import your own custom creation from the computer via the USB port – easy!
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Plastic
- Power Source: Treadle Powered
- Dimensions: 21.75 x 19.02 x 19.09 inches
- Weight: 13.7 Pounds
Pros
- A machine great for beginners
- 25 year warranty
- 138 built in embroidery designs
- Bright LED light
Cons
- Embroidery only
Top Pick
Brother HC1850
Comes with a wide range of easy-to-use elements and computerized sewing machine features to make the sewing and embroidery experience easy.
Brother HC1850
Coming in as another of the best Brother sewing machines is the HC1850 sewing and quilting machine.
It comes with a wide range of easy to use elements and computerized sewing machine features to make the sewing and embroidery experience easy, all while addressing any sewing needs.
Features
One element I like about this sewing machine Brother offers is the built in stitch reference guide—this doesn’t come with many other Brother sewing machine units!
There are 130 stitches to choose from with monogramming potential, auto size button holes, and sewing stitches for fashion, quilting, and more.
Function
This is a quilting and sewing machine that can get nearly any job done with ease thanks to the specially designed feed system, suitable for many, if not most, materials.
Quilters will benefit from the free motion quilting feature too, and they’ll find that the one step auto stitch selection button makes the design process fast and simple.
Extra highlights
The large LCD display also highlights the sewing machine life and project status, as well as showing stitches and the designs before execution.
This is another quilting and sewing machine that comes with a spring action quilting foot and a 25 year limited warranty.
So, this is great for those looking to make an investment in something they know will potentially last them a good long while (and is covered if not).
Accessories
Looking for value for money?
This sewing machine comes with 8 presser feet, so users can crack on with a Project Runway-esque design almost immediately.
With 850 stitches per minute, this is a great speed for all levels of sewers, especially intermediate experienced individuals.
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Treadle
- Dimensions: 19.2 x 12.5 x 15.2 inches
- Weight: 10.14 Pounds
Pros
- Many sewing stitches
- Large Screen
- One step auto stitch selector
Cons
- Not the best for beginners
Best for Heavy Fabrics
Brother CS6000I Embroidery Machine
Ideal for those looking for a backup machine, as I know many sewers that use it for that very purpose and love it.
Brother CS6000I Embroidery Machine
The Brother CS6000I sewing machine is ideal in my opinion for those looking for a backup machine, as I know many sewers that use it for that very purpose and love it.
If you want a sewing machine to take out and about, this one comes with a carry case included so it can travel as needed.
Warranty
Those who run a home business could find that this is the Brother CS6000I machine for them, as it comes with a lengthy warranty and doesn’t break the bank.
Also, it has a library of features that improve the sewing experience.
This Brother CS6000I sewing machine comes with a 25 year warranty, which gives users great peace of mind.
Features
One element about this that I miss is an automatic thread cutter, which is something I’ve become accustomed to over the years.
This is not an essential element when it comes to creating, but it is handy.
Speed
This is a Brother machine that may not be the fastest in the lineup, however at 850 stitches per minute, I find that this can deliver a project in a decent amount of time.
Those working with this can also benefit from 60 built in stitches and a large extension table, which comes with the sewing machine as standard.
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Cord
- Dimensions: NA
- Weight: 13.6 Pounds
Pros
- Extension table increases sewing work area and is easy to use
- Automatic needle threader
- Carry case
Cons
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
Offers many sewing elements and features of normally more expensive machines.
Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
Looking for a heavy duty, industry grade Brother sewing machine without spending industry prices? The 2701 may be the best Brother sewing machine for you, as it offers many sewing elements and features of normally more expensive machines.
Features
Featuring 27 built in stitches including stretch, zig-zag, and hemming, this unit comes with just enough included stitches and free arm capability to create any project with ease and confidence.
This heavy duty sewing machine features an automatic needle threading system and jam resistant drop in top bobbin that make the experience a breeze.
LCD
These normally don’t come with units in this price range from other brands.
Another element not included with this is an LCD touchscreen, which can be missed if you need it for ease of accessibility
Guide
Those who may not be used to using a Brother unit can benefit from the included user manual and DVD.
Those who are experienced using a Brother sewing machine can dive straight into a project thanks to the included accessories which include;
- 3 piece needle set
- 6 sewing feet
- Twin needle
- DVD instructions
- 4 Bobbins
- Free arm functionality
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: NA
- Dimensions: 12.1 x 5.9 x 15.3 inches
- Weight: 12.6 Pounds
Pros
- Automatic needle threader
- Included accessories
- Free arm
Cons
- Not many built in stitches
Best for the Beginners
Brother GX37
Makes everyday creations a breeze thanks to its range of features, 37 built in designs, and one step buttonholes for total tailorability.
Brother GX37
If you want a Brother sewing machine that makes everyday creations a breeze, the GX37 may be for you thanks to its range of features, 37 built in designs, and one step buttonholes for total tailorability.
Features
Those new to the sewing machine can use the included DVD and informative instructions. There is free technical support from Brother should any issues occur or if users have any questions about the GX37.
There is also a presser foot selection and helpful top drop-in bobbin for users to get on with the task they want.
Basic
This is not an overwhelming sewing machine with a dozen state of the art features. Think of it as a basic sewing machine that does the job well, which is why I recommend it to beginners especially.
They are similar in scope to the best embroidery machine for beginners.
It does not have a large LCD screen, but rather has a turn dial on the front of the machine so users can choose the stitch they need.
Free Arm
Those who like to create garments and fashion can also use the free arm to sew sleeves, cuffs, and collars.
This would not be the ideal machine for professionals looking for a new first pick business unit, but I would suggest this as a solid Brother sewing machine for portability, back-up, or teaching.
But for beginners, this is the perfect machine for you. And by subscribing to a sewing subscription box, you’ll always have new projects and ideas to try on the sewing machine, helping you learn new skills.
Specs
- Not many designs or stitches built in
- No screen
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- Lightweight
- 4 x 4 Embroidery hoop
- Free arm
Cons
- Not many designs or stitches built in
- No screen
Brother XR9550PRW
Another unit ideal for those that don’t have a professional or expert level sewing ability.
Brother XR9550PRW
The Brother XR9550PRW is a recommendation I’ve made to those looking for a Brother sewing machine that can also quilt with ease.
Coming in at 800 stitches per minute, this is another unit ideal for those that don’t have a professional or expert level sewing ability.
Features
I find that this sewing machine comes out on top compared to others around the same bracket, as this offers on average 30 more built in stitches compared to others. With 165 built in stitches and 8 presser feet included, the sky’s the limit for designs.
Plus, the F.A.S.T needle threading system reduces the stress of threading by doing it for you.
Free Motion
Quilters can crack on with ease by simply lowering the feed dogs and free motioning to their heart’s content.
If that was not enough, more size can be created thanks to the included wide table that gives users adaptability for sewing projects and designs.
Portability
A hard case is also included with this machine, so those looking to take this out to their next event or fair can do so without worrying that their sewing machine will be damaged, or related articles needing to be purchased separately.
Specs
- Color: White
- Material: Metal
- Power Source: Treadle
- Dimensions: 7.01 x 16.26 x 12.48 inches
- Weight: 19.42 Pounds
Pros
- Free motion quilting
- Over 100 built in stitches
- Table included
Cons
- Could be too many stitches to beginner quilters
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Brother Machine for a Beginner?
The best machine is one that helps you build upon your skill level and sewing experience, without leaving you overwhelmed with features and elements outside of your current skill set.
Best Sewing Thread for a Brother Machine?
Thread all depends on the project and how you want the final product or item to look, as each thread can give a different finish.
For example, when working with fashion or apparel, I tend to use polyester thread as this is more colorful and durable enough to survive regular washing.
Many threads and thread types can work with a Brother embroidery machine, sewing machine or computerized sewing machine as the brand is known for its quilting and embroidery expertise.
Brother definitely makes my list of the best computerized embroidery machines around.
Brand
When it comes to brand particular threads, I personally use Gutermann thread. Yes, it is more expensive than most, but it is the most durable, colorful, and it survives machines whether they offer fast stitches per minute or not when sewing.
That doesn’t mean that you have to go and spend a small fortune on thread in order to create amazing or limited edition items, but it can sometimes offer you reassurance that the friction from a sewing machine with a fast stitches per minute ability wont snap or make thread bare.
Brother VS Singer: What’s Best?
No brand is specifically better than another, as any machine comes with different things for the sewing, embroidery and quilting communities.
It totally comes down to each individual computerized sewing machine.
The best Brother sewing machine may offer more features than some Singer sewing machines, but not the same speed nor motor capability.
Brother
Traditionally, Brother sewing machines are known to come with more easy to use, technology based features that exceed the normal needle threader or drop in top bobbin and stitch functions.
These allow users to get started instantly and dive into a whole new world.
Singer
Singer is known as they have been around the longest out of traditional sewing brands from within the community.
However, I personally find that Singer machines are for experts who don’t want whistles and bells, or those who already work with that brand.
Whether you study Project Runway or other creative fashion design, the chances are you will spot a Brother sewing machine in the background.
That is because the ease of use elements, the one step functions, and varying stitch functions allow users to create despite varying sewing needs.
Brother Sewing Machine: What Needle Brand to Use
You can normally use any sewing machine needle brand with a sewing machine such as the Brother CS6000I.
Many brands tend to be compatible with any machine Brother offers. However, that is only for sewing machines.
NOTE
Remember that embroidery units, sergers, and overlock machines will need different needles.
Brand
I do tend to normally buy needles for my Brother machine directly from Brother, as I like to have the assurance that my components will work with my sewing machine.
I have had too many times trying to save some pennies here and there by ordering cheap, just to then not have the component work.
Alternative
Should Brother sewing machines needles not be available, I would suggest keeping a look out for the brand Schmetz, whose needles tend to fit on most, if not all the best Brother sewing machine units featured above.
Things to consider when buying the best Brother machine
Purpose
Have you given any thought to what you want from one of the best Brother sewing machines?
- Are you a beginner looking for a learning curve?
- Are you an expert looking for a new unit?
- Do you plan on using this computerized sewing machine for personal or professional sewing and creations, projects, or commissions?
Sitting down and thinking about the answers to questions like this can make the search for a new Brother sewing machine a million times easier, and means users get the very best from their unit.
Imagine investing in something substantial and not getting your money’s worth *shudders*.
- If you know you are someone who struggles with threading or bobbin winding, then think about Brother sewing machines that tackle that issue.
- If you also want to go straight into a project, I would recommend finding sewing feet that come included with purchase so you’re not left buying non Brother sewing machine accessories from a third party.
User Friendliness
When using a Brother sewing machine, no one wants to be using something past their capability – it just ruins the experience.
We create our best work when having fun and making a project from the heart, so finding a unit with elements and features that make things easier is a must.
Knowing what you want to use a Brother sewing machine for is essential.
Features I Recommend
However, I personally would recommend one or two elements that have made my own journey ten times easier, even if using them comes with a learning curve.
Firstly, the larger the screen, the easier I find it to select from built in stitches and designs. I sometimes have issues with my eyes, especially if I cannot find my glasses, so a LCD screen means I’m not left squinting in search of my sewing selection.
Helpful Elements
The second recommendation of user friendly elements is anything automatic.
I find that a machine that uses at least one automatic feature, such as an automatic threading system or cutter, makes the project that much more streamlined and enjoyable.
As someone who can get annoyed failing to attempt to thread a needle multiple times, a Brother machine that does that for me saves time and energy.
Enhancements
Those features alone are not crucial to a machine, but it can make your personal experience easier.
There are tons of features and sewing options included in many of the best Brother sewing machines that make the user experience easier.
In all, they can make any computerized sewing machine less scary for beginners.
Other Helpful Elements
These can include (but are not limited to); extension table, built in sewing designs and built in stitches, 7 feed dog systems, easy threading system and drop in bobbin.
Here are the features of the CS-6000I
Stitches Per Minute
Another recommendation I would make is that those who are not professional or experts when it comes to using a Brother sewing machine, might want to choose from the selection of sewing machines that have a lower SPM ability.
This is due to the fact that I tend to find that leisurely or hobby crafting doesn’t always need a Brother sewing machine to power out designs with speed.
This allows users to focus on the sewing machine design quality and control.
Skill Level
Are you a professional fashion designer or someone who uses a sewing machine almost daily?
I would say that the higher the SPM, the better for you.
Sewing machines, including Brother sewing machines that have a faster speed, can create items and stitch much faster than other machines. This could lead to a faster turnaround time.
Investment
Investing in a Brother sewing machine that can stitch faster than novice creators is an amazing Brother sewing machine element, as fast speeds means more creations – and when time is money, every minute saved helps.
Price
Think of what you can afford and stick to it. I believe there is no point paying for features or the best Brother sewing machine that you won’t get the very best from. It’s not bad to choose a sewing machine with an affordable price, as long as it has the features you need for your sewing project.
I understand that we all expect and need different things from a sewing machine, whether we are on Project Runway or not. But, I do have a few suggestions.
Choose What You Can Use
If you are an amateur or beginner to the world of sewing, then do not choose something that has many features and costs a lot.
The chances are that this will be full of elements that you don’t know how to use.
Consider an easy to use machine like the GX37 which comes with just enough to wrap your head around.
Evaluate Your Level
Are you an expert sewer? For those who work within a professional environment such as a home business, then I would always suggest spending as much as you can on the best Brother sewing machine.
These Brother sewing machines tend to come with everything you need to improve and level up designs.
CS600I
For example investing in the CS600I gives users more than 60 built in stitches to work from, a selection of sewing feet (e.g. zipper foot and buttonhole foot), and extension table.
Think of purpose and what I discussed earlier, as this comes hand in hand with price.
Pay for what you need and will get use from rather than paying for elements from sewing machines that aren’t needed.
TIP
If you can pay for an automatic needle threader or automatic bobbin winding system, it might be a good choice, as they can make the journey easier in my opinion.
LCD Display
Another element for any machine, whether the best Brother sewing machine or not, is the LCD display – I just cannot live without it.
That does not mean that these are essential, but as someone who struggles with their eyes on occasion, a large display or screen can really make the difference.
Some Brother sewing machines work off a dial selection system for example, and may not feature a sewing screen.
Screen Size
However, many of the best Brother sewing machines include this element – it just varies.
Some Brother sewing machines come with a 3.2” LCD screen as standard, whereas others come much bigger. I am certainly someone who likes a bigger screen.
I also find that sewing machines that feature a bigger selection screen sometimes also come with more features.
On a personal note, I also find that there is something otherworldly and futuristic about a Brother sewing machine with a large screen. Fresh out of a science fiction film!
Wrapping Up the Thread
Thanks for coming on this journey with me to find you the best Brother sewing machine – I hope we got to the heart of the embroidery area and found the machine to suit your needs!
Top Pick
Remember, the best pick overall from me is the HC1850, as it gives a great all-around, unique Brother sewing machine experience.
Best for the Beginners
I think that the best Brother sewing machine for beginners is the GX37. It may not be a feature-packed sewing machine but it has all the basic features a sewer needs.
In case you need a beginner’s sewing machine other than the GX37, check out my comparison and review of sewing machines for beginners.
Best for Heavy Fabrics
If you work with heavy fabrics, then I would suggest the CS6000I, as it comes with a heavy duty metal frame and feed dog system that can do much of the hard work for you.
Best for Quilting
Quilters should consider the Brother XR3340 sewing machine, as it comes with many easy to use quilting elements, including built in stitches to give creators complete design flexibility and control.
Happy Sewing!
I hope you take something away from here that will really help you.
Until next time, you can take a look at other articles on a host of machine topics found here. Also, I have created a collection of my favorite sewing bee patterns inspired by the TV show The Great British Sewing Bee, which you can use for your project.
If you have any thoughts, feel free to get in touch via social media, as I can’t wait to hear about your projects and sewing adventures!
