Embroidery can really take your imagination and creative expression in many directions. In the past, if you wanted to add embroidery to an item, you had to do it by hand.
Best Computerized Embroidery Machine
Not only was this time consuming, but the results weren’t always brilliant, to say the least.
Nowadays, there are many different machines on the market that let you embroider high quality decorative designs.
If you’re looking for a new machine and are overwhelmed with the choices available right now, I’ve got you covered!
Today, I’ve compiled 8 of the best embroidery machines, going over all the important features you might need.
Which embroidery machine is best for me?
It’s important for you to choose the best out of the sewing and embroidery machines for your needs.
To help, I’ve condensed down my reviewed products further down below!
Best Embroidery Machines
Top Pick
Janome Memory Craft 9850
It’s a versatile and hybrid machine for embroidering and sewing enthusiasts.
Janome Memory Craft 9850
My top pick and best overall recommendation for an embroidery machine are the Janome Horizon Memory Craft 9850.
It’s a hybrid and versatile machine for embroidering and sewing enthusiasts.
Janome makes it easy to hoop with magnets to help you when embroidering awkward items that don’t hoop easily such as bath towels or collars, helping float the material instead of bunching it erratically.
Noise
The machine is very quiet when in use, and I love the easy to use, interactive features like the color change and embroidery thread running low notifications.
The built in memory makes it easy to pick up where you left off in case of a power failure.
Best Computerized Embroidery Machine
EverSewn Sparrow X
The EverSewn X Next Generation is my choice of the best overall computerized machines.
Through the app, you can fully edit embroidery designs and select which stitch to begin at. It remains functional if there is a power failure or there are errors with part of a completed embroidery design.
Wifi isn’t required when using the app.
You can use the embroidery software of your choice to create the initial design or purchase them from online sellers.
Features
I love the high tech features of this product, and how accessible it is for embroiderers of all abilities.
You could build up a library of designs, and when you are ready or have equipment – say you have run out of stabilizers but want to get creative, you can still edit designs and play around without having your machine plugged in.
Best Embroidery Machine for Home Use
Brother SE625
A sewing and embroidery machine with good overall qualities for its value and it also comes extensive features.
Brother SE625
The Brother SE265 is my choice for best overall sewing and embroidery machine for use at home due to its best value price and extensive features.
The dust cover and handle are big selling points for me, which increase the movability and the life of embroidery sewing machines.
For home embroiders who sew occasionally, this is one of the best embroidery machines with the functionality of a mid-level sewing machine.
Designs
This Brother embroidery machine comes with a plethora of designs for you to play around with plus the automatic features such as thread control, automatic threader, and bobbin winder.
The LCD screen is easy to use, and there are eight built in tutorials showing you the ins and outs.
The on-screen guide helps you with positioning the embroidery arm and hoop, needle threader, winding and inserting bobbins, and switching feet.
Top Embroidery Machines
Here is the whole lineup…
Top Pick
Janome Memory Craft 9850
It’s a versatile and hybrid machine for embroidering and sewing enthusiasts.
Janome Memory Craft 9850
You get the best of both worlds with The Janome Memory Craft 9850 embroidery sewing machine.
This Janome computerized sewing and embroidery model comes with an ample 175 built in embroidery designs and 200 built in stitches.
Display
This computerized embroidery sewing machine will give you on-screen aid, so you are notified when the thread breaks and if the bobbin thread is running low.
When your design is on the LCD touch screen, the Janome Memory Craft will actually inform you which color thread you require for the design and when to change it during sewing.
Editing
The LCD touchscreen screen on the Janome Memory Craft comes with speed control and lots of design and edit features.
You can drag and drop designs all around the screen and add either of the 2 built in fonts. If you’re not happy with their library, you can import new designs via USB port.
Features
The modern features on the Janome Memory Craft computerized machine include an automatic thread tension control and a bobbin winder. The standard bunch of 12 accessories included are a ¼ inch seam foot plus 9 other feet and 1 large hoop.
Specs
- Built in stitches: 200
- Built in embroidery designs: 175
- Maximum embroidery size: 6.7” x 7.9”
- Workspace 8.1” x 4.7”
- Stitch per minute: 1000 (embroidery sewing 60-800 spm)
- Dimensions: 18.7" x 12.4” x 8.8"
- Weight: 22.9 lbs
Pros
- Janome Memory Craft is easy to use.
- Easy to remove needle plate.
- Strong lock hoop locking system.
Cons
- Protector case not included.
- Only two built in fonts for monogramming.
Brother PE800
The Brother PE800 comes with a 3.2” computerized LCD touchscreen in full color for easy-on-the-eye use.
The Brother PE800 embroidery machine comes with 138 built in designs, including 11 different lettering fonts for monogramming, floral, and quilt patterns.
It’s an embroidery only machine, so you’d have to buy an additional sewing machine if you wanted to do regular sewing,
Designs
If there aren’t any suitable designs in the Brother PE800 embroidery machine library, other embroidery designs can be imported from either a memory card or a USB memory stick.
Just be sure to convert it to a file that is compatible with the machine (.pes, .dst, .phc, .pen).
It will embroider on the most popular embroidery field size of 5 x 7 inch for larger monogramming or embroidering projects.
Settings
Users can change the system’s settings easily from the metric system to inches without you worrying about accidentally deleting anything from the Brother PE800 embroidery machine.
The drop in bobbin has a notification system to let users know they need to change the bobbin thread.
The Brother PE800 embroidery machine is a really good device in the household version of a sewing and embroidery machine, all without costing an extortionate price.
Specs
- Built in embroidery designs: 138
- Maximum embroidery size: 5” x 7”
- Stitch per minute: 710
- Dimensions: 21.7” x 19” x 19”
- Weight: 13.7lbs
Pros
- 138 built in designs
- Holds larger thread spools
- Color LCD screen.
Cons
- Only recognizes plastic bobbins.
- LCD screen small.
Brother SE600
A 2 in 1 sewing and embroidery machine for all kinds of fabric projects. Good for home users and beginners.
Brother SE600
This Brother SE600 is modest in comparison to its relatives.
It comes with 80 built in designs and 130 built in stitches. 6 lettering fonts are plenty for personalized monograms.
It’s a good machine for home users and for beginners. It’s a 2 in 1 sewing and embroidery machine for all kinds of fabric projects.
The SE600 also comes backed by a 25-year limited warranty with free technical phone support for the life of the product.
Display
The 3.2” screen provides an editing display, from rotation in 1° increments when embroidering to keep designs straight.
The high quality stitching and easy use of embroidery features, make it a great choice for beginners in embroidery and appliques.
Editing
If a different color thread from the original design is used, the thread color can be changed to help you visualize the design.
Often, even the best embroidery sewing machines available don’t have this feature!
The Brother SE600’s software is compatible with programs such as SewArt and Amazing Designs, where some of the best embroidery designs can be bought and edited.
Positioning
Before embroidering has begun, the user can navigate around the embroidery hoop to the exact size of the design by using the up, down, left, and right directional buttons.
It’s a useful feature to help see where the embroidery will lay.
Specs
- Built in stitches: 103
- Built in embroidery designs: 80
- Maximum embroidery size: 4×4
- Stitches per minute: 710 (400 spm embroidering)
- Dimensions: 21.1 x 15.5 x 16.5”
- Weight: 11.8lbs
Pros
- Comes with 7 accessory feet.
- Thread color can be changed on screen.
- Lower price than similar models.
Cons
- Small embroidery field.
- Slower stitch per minute.
Brother SE1900
A computerized sewing and embroidery machine with good features and also allows users to create their own stitches.
Brother SE1900
The Brother SE1900 is a good choice if you’re looking for a computerized sewing and embroidery machine.
It comes with 138 built in designs and 11 lettering fonts for monogramming on the large 5 x 7 inch embroidery field.
Features
The sewing and embroidery machine combination includes a jam resistant drop in bobbin and an automatic needle threader that pushes the thread through the needle with just the press of a button.
7 neat easy-access buttons sit at the bottom of the 3.2” LCD screen.
Accessories
Brother’s standard plentiful array of accessories includes 8 sewing feet.
It also includes a knee lifter, which is useful for hands free sewing work (one of my favorite features on a modern embroidery sewing machine).
If the user wants to switch over to regular sewing, there is My Custom Stitch program, which allows the user to create their own custom stitches and save them in the machine – pretty cool!
Specs
- Built in stitches: 240
- Built in embroidery designs: 138
- Maximum embroidery size: 5” x 7 “
- Stitches per minute: 850
- Dimensions: 13.4” x 23.1” x 11.6”
- Weight: 22.05lbs
Pros
- My Custom Stitch for creating your own stitches.
- Built in memory.
- Advanced needle threading system.
Cons
- No adjustable embroidery speed settings.
- Doesn’t have on screen editing such as built in border, on screen font curving.
Best Computerized Embroidery Machine
EverSewn Sparrow X Next Generation
A modern dual function sewing machine that can be operated through a mobile app.
EverSewn Sparrow X Next Generation
The control panel on the EverSewn Sparrow x Next Generation is operated through the app EverSewn, which can be downloaded on an electronic device.
This is a really cool feature, as if you are using a tablet, the screen size for editing is much larger than a typical built control panel.
The app is compatible with Android and Apple products.
Thread
The app hosts a catalog of thread brands, so during editing you can search for the brand of thread you are using.
And, you can find the exact color to help you envision your design on screen. You don’t need a wifi connection to use the editing software.
Function
It’s a dual machine, so by removing the needle plate and embroidery arm it can easily be repurposed for regular sewing.
The EverSewn sewing and embroidery machine can make it easy with the automatic thread cutter and speed control to save you time and mistakes.
Thread Sensors
The EverSewn X Next Generation comes with thread sensors, which tell you when the thread is running out.
It’s built with automatic needle threading, a built in cutter, and more useful time saving features.
Together, they make this a high end sewing and embroidery machine.
Specs
- Built in stitches: 240
- Built in embroidery designs: 138
- Maximum embroidery size: 4.75” x 7 “
- Sewing stitches per minute: 850
- Dimensions: 16.5” x 7.5” x 11”
- Weight: 29.9lbs
Pros
- Alerts when the bobbin thread is low.
- Will accept many types of embroidery files such as PES, JEF and SEW.
- Customize and monitor embroidery designs while sitting in another room.
Cons
- Have to adjust needle thread tension before use every time.
- Need wifi and battery on a smart device to use for embroidery.
Janome Memory Craft 500E
A unit that makes it easy to decorate items with its large embroidery area. It also comes with a lot of accessories.
Janome Memory Craft 500E
The Janome Memory Craft 500E makes it easy to personalize, embellish, and monogram items and accessories with a large embroidery field of 11” x 7.9”.
It’s an embroidery only machine.
Designs
New designs can be transferred through a USB and edited through the machine’s advanced on screen functions.
Navigation might be easier with the MC500E’s color LCD touch screen. The menu icon enables the user to gain access to the built in designs, including monogramming fonts and border designs.
Features
Features include an auto-return post thread break, speed control, top loading full rotary hook bobbin, automatic thread tension control, and stop/start button.
The scratch resistant surface on the machine is an advantage over a machine that is made with only plastic covers.
Presser Foot
You have an extra high presser foot lift if you embroider on quilts; this is a good feature to save you from fighting with the quilt and the machine.
Janome offers a huge array of standard accessories that are included with this machine, including a USB cable, large hoop and an extra wide extension table.
Specs
- Built in embroidery designs: 160
- Maximum embroidery size: 11” x 7.9”
- Stitches per minute: 400 – 850spm
- Dimensions: 22.6” x 12.4” x 9”
- Weight: 30.2lbs
Pros
- Auto return post thread break.
- Large embroidery space.
- Minimal maintenance.
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners.
- Limited size of embroidery designs.
Best Embroidery Machine For Home Use
Brother SE625
A sewing and embroidery machine with good overall qualities for its value and it also comes extensive features.
Brother SE625
The Brother SE625 sewing and embroidery machine comes with a 4 x 4 embroidery field.
It’s made from a lightweight metal to increase the life of the product.
Easy to navigate, the machine is versatile and runs smoothly.
The automatic needle threader and automatic thread cutter are bonuses to help save time when sewing.
Designs
The 280 included designs encompass decorative alphabets, designs for kids, holidays, and sports.
The USB port allows you to bring in literally limitless designs from the internet, or you can directly link up a computer. ibroidery.com is Brother’s official online repository of designs that you can get for free on sewing and embroidery machines.
Display
The LCD screen display allows you to view sewing and embroidery machines designs in full color, and the built-in color palette changes individual thread colors in embroidery designs before stitching.
The memory will remember the settings, so you can comfortably pick up from where you left off after the machine has been switched off.
Stitches and Accessories
Sewers may be pleased with the 103 built in stitches, generous for a combination machine.
Along with Brother’s large embroidery accessory pack, included are 7 feet, a 4 x 4 embroidery hoop, and a drop feed dog feature for free motion sewing.
Specs
- Built in stitches: 103
- Built in embroidery designs: 80, plus 200 on DVD disc
- Maximum embroidery size: 4” x 4”
- Sewing stitches per minute: 710
- Dimensions: 21” x 16.42” x 15.28”
- Weight: 25.3lbs
Pros
- Comes with 280 embroidery designs.
- Free arm for hems and cuffs.
- Handle and dust cover are included.
Cons
- Won’t accept larger hoops.
- Small workspace for quilts.
Brother PE535
A simple machine with modern features, best value for those on the beginning of their crafting journey.
Brother PE535
The Brother PE535 is an embroidery only machine.
The USB port is there for additional designs and lettering fonts to be imported and stored in the built in memory.
Display
It comes with the usual Brother 3.2” LCD color touchscreen, which allows the user to edit built in designs at the touch of a button.
The grid and alignment tool makes it easy to find the correct place for a design on the embroidery area.
Features
Features include the automatic needle threader, easy load bobbin, and needle up/down button.
There is an adjustable speed setting for embroidering, helping you manage designs at your own pace.
Stitches
Customers say the stitch quality is consistently high and even.
There is troubleshooting available on screen for any issues that may be encountered during setup and embroidering.
A simple machine with modern features, it makes one of the best entry level machines at the best value for those on the beginning of their journey.
Specs
- Built in embroidery designs: 80
- Maximum embroidery size: 4” x 4”
- Sewing stitches per minute: 400
- Dimensions: 16.5 x 7.8 x 12”
- Weight: 15lbs
Pros
- Lettering fonts come in three different sizes.
- Embroidery on thick fabrics such as denim is possible.
- Online tech support for life.
Cons
- 4 x 4 is restricting.
- Does not function as a sewing machine.
Is an embroidery machine different from a sewing machine?
Sewing and embroidery are very different techniques, therefore the machines are also different, so they can achieve their best possible stitching.
An embroidery machine is used for embroidery, an artistic craft that involves sewing intricate designs on a piece of fabric.
Embroidery Machine
An embroidery machine performs specialized stitches to create decorations on fabrics.
Embroidery involves a repetitive stitching technique to create patterns, and an embroidery machine is programmed to carry out these stitching techniques as accurately as possible.
A sewing machine is used for attaching two or more pieces of fabric together to hold for making clothes or accessories.
Sewing Machine
A sewing machine will come with a number of built in stitches to hold material together at hems and cuffs.
Sewing is mainly used for functionality and construction purposes.
Sewing machines are limited in their stitch types while embroidery machines have more options.
NOTE
If you have the option to lower the feed dogs in your machine, you could try embroidery on your machine. Luckily, there are many easy to use combination embroidery sewing machines!
Should I buy an embroidery machine?
By owning an embroidery machine, you can embellish and decorate just about any type of fabric.
You can use the embroidery machine to make unique items, patches for quilts and embroider appliques for your perfect finished look.
- If you embroider or are wanting to get started with the craft, then an embroidery machine could make a good companion for you.
- If you think you need to get an upgrade, you should make a list of features you want from an embroidery machine as maybe a combination sewing and embroidery machine could be for you.
How to choose the best sewing and embroidery machine
Only you can decide what types of features you want in an embroidery machine.
Not all models come with the same attributes and they can vary in price drastically.
Don’t bother wasting money on a fancy embroidery machine with aspects you won’t use.
Create a list of must-have and easy to use features while trying to account for your current and future needs.
Things to consider
There are many things to take into consideration before investing in an embroidery machine.
I’ve compiled a list to help you make it a better choice, preventing you from regretting the purchase.
Purpose
Embroidery machines help add all sorts of designs to your embroidery projects.
Add new, fashionable embellishments to clothing in your closet, personalize a child’s belongings with custom designs and lettering, or turn everyday pillows and blankets into the best embroidery customized gifts for friends and family.
Income
Embroidery machines can also be used to start a small home embroidery business, where you create your own themed fabric with the perfect color and design stitching on it.
It can be a good way to reimburse yourself with the money you spent on the initial investment.
Price
Most often, a brand name embroidery machine is of good quality. Normally, they don’t differ immensely in the way they work.
What you don’t want to do is spend an extra fortune on a brand, simply because you’ve heard it’s better than another.
Unless you have an infinite amount of money, you’ll need to budget for an embroidery machine, and they can be expensive.
However, if you don’t have that much fortune, you can start with cheap embroidery machines. Some will perform as well as a high-end embroidery machine but will have fewer features, a slower speed, and possibly even fewer built-in sewing stitches and patterns.
Accessories
The cost of the machine is only one thing to consider. In the embroidery world, there is lots of equipment required.
You’ll need stabilizers – lightweight, mid weight, heavy weight, clear.
There is the cost of patterns if you wanted to source them outside of the built in library.
And the different color threads and needles frequently need to be changed (after each big project, or around 8 hours of use).
Skill level
You really don’t need to be an expert at embroidering to own and use an embroidery machine.
It doesn’t take long to get to grips with an embroidery machine, with a ton of informational videos online plus on-screen aid built in.
While most machines say they are easy to navigate, research and see which one you think would be best for your skill level to help with your learning curve.
Build
Determining the area and space you will use the embroidery sewing machine in will tell you the build and size of the machine you need.
- If you want a hybrid embroidery sewing machine, look for a model where the hoop attachment will disconnect.
- If you want to use the machine for quilting, I would suggest looking for an embroidery sewing machine that has a large throat space for you to squeeze quilts through.
Size
A sewing and embroidery machine comes in varying sizes with varying embroidery capabilities.
Include a size estimate on your list of features and considerations before researching machines.
Find a supplier and take a look at the different sized products available.
It can be hard to visualize an object based only on the diameter.
The machines come in different weights, so consider if the station it will live upon can handle the weight and vibration of the machine at high speed.
Warranty
You definitely don’t want to make the mistake of investing in an embroidery machine without a warranty or service agreement.
It’s easier if the machine you choose comes with the support that you need and understand.
Build
Most machines nowadays are made from plastic, which means you have to be extra careful.
If you happen to break anything, trying to replace it could prove to be a nightmare.
It can be helpful to find a dealer where the machine is covered for repairs under warranty.
Service Center
Check if you will have to send the machine away if there are any malfunctions and where the closest repair shop is.
Travelling across states for a repair part isn’t fun for anyone.
Usually, embroidery machines are covered under some type of warranty – some very extensive or lifelong.
TIP
Be sure to double check it, and go through the warranty with the dealer before purchasing to make sure you understand exactly what you are covered for.
Machine type
You can purchase a dedicated embroidery machine that will not execute any regular sewing, and you will not be able to remove the hoop arm.
These are the best machines for those who already have a high performing sewing machine and want an embroidery machine.
There is also a multi-needle embroidery machine which can hold multiple thread colors. The multi-needle embroidery machine takes care of holding the different thread colors at the same time, so you don’t need to change them manually to achieve faster embroidery speeds.
Combination
You can also purchase a combination sewing and embroidery machine.
These are good choices for those who want to use the machine for both.
With this type of device, make sure that neither the embroidery or the sewing machine side of it suffer from the dual functionality.
Sewing stitch per minute
The sewing stitch per minute can vary depending on the specific project the machine is sewing.
During maximum speed on a complex heavy embroidery project, the machine is likely to perform a little slower.
This is normal as the needle moves in different directions.
Estimate
The best embroidery sewing machine will often tell you how long the project will take based on stitch per minute on the display screen.
If you have a hybrid embroidery sewing machine, the sewing stitch per minute will be considerably higher than for embroidery, as the needle will only be moving forward and possibly in reverse during free motion sewing.
Features
Everyone has an opinion about which features are the best on an embroidery machine.
I’ve compiled a list of the best features you should look out for on an embroidery machine so that you make the right decision.
To give you an idea, here’s a short vid on all the features the Janome Memory Craft 9850 have.
Automatic features
These are the best features for new and seasoned sewers alike, and I can’t sew without them anymore.
It never hurts to have some things done for you!
Automatic needle threader
Makes it easy to thread and saves time and frustration squinting your eyes.
Automatic thread tension control
When the machine automatically adjusts the thread tensions, there is no chance of mistakes due to improper tension.
Automatic thread cutter
A machine that automatically snips all the threads for you will save you time and thread.
Knee lifter
This gadget lets you use your knee to lift the presser foot, leaving your hands free.
Built in embroidery designs
If you were to find a machine with built in embroidery designs, that could save you lots of time.
In nothing else, it could also serve as a fountain of inspiration for your next big project!
Hoops and embroidery field
Embroidery machines are limited in the capacity of how much they can embroider.
The embroidery field is typically 4” x 4” or 5” x 7”, but there are models that have an embroidery area hoop size of 7” x 11”.
RECOMMENDATION
I recommend choosing a machine that offers you multiple options for hoop size. An embroidery area of 4” x 4” and 5” x 7” can be restrictive.
Embroidery designs
Machines are loaded with libraries of built in designs.
But, even the best machines have simple and useless designs (in my opinion) and not much I would actually use.
You’ll want to choose a machine that has the best designs you will use.
TIP
You can purchase additional designs built into a memory card or online and transfer them to your machine via USB.
Fonts
The number of fonts for monogramming varies between machines.
The best are equipped with 10+ fonts in different languages and numerous embroidery patterns.
You can also download and import different fonts to your library through a USB or memory card.
Frames
You can add a frame or border to the outline of your embroidery design to make it look the best. Most come with a selection built in.
Editing
Some machines aren’t generous when it comes to editing.
Even the best will allow you to edit designs, but of no greater size than 20% larger or smaller. Most will allow you to change color, rotate, crop, mirror, and overlap.
Memory
An in-built memory will save your imported new designs ready for next time.
The memory will remember where you were if there’s a power failure mid-embroider, so you can pick up from the exact stitch you left off.
Connectivity
The more advanced computerized machine brands often offer Bluetooth or wifi connections to make it easy to transfer designs from your other computerized embroidery machines to your machine.
This isn’t necessary (plus, what if the internet goes down?), it’s just an additional feature. A USB stick copying my designs over works well for me.
USB
Make sure to get an embroidery machine that can transfer designs via a USB port.
You don’t want one that requires linking up your embroidery machine and computer (who has the space for that?!).
File Compatibility
When you are transferring files over, make sure they are in the best file format for your machine.
The machines are compatible with different files, but the most common are .pes.
TIP
Try not to overcomplicate the process with too many folders, keep the design you are using in the root of the USB.
LCD screen
Some machines only offer a small display screen with no clear picture.
A large LCD touchscreen gives you the best view of the design you are embroidering.
TIP
Always try to get a bigger screen size to help you edit designs and visualize how the finished product will turn out.
Preview function
This enables the user to see the design on the screen before you actually embroider it.
It’s really useful to change any embroidery thread color, and to make last minute edits.
Conclusion
Choosing the best embroidery machine can be confusing with the array of model choices and features available.
I hope you feel a little less overwhelmed after reading the reviews of my best sewing and embroidery machines.
Just to remind you:
Best Computerized Embroidery Machine
Top Pick
My top pick and best overall is the Janome 9850 embroidery and sewing machine.
I love that it’s a hybrid interactive embroidery and sewing machine.
It’s not too expensive and multi-functional.
Best Computerized Embroidery Machine
The best computerized machine is the EverSewn X Next Generation.
Using a smart device as a control panel, you could make edits to a pattern on the subway home!
Best For Home Use
The best embroidery machine for home use is the Brother SE625.
It has tons of on-screen help for embroiders at home, all while being at the lower end of the price range.
It’s lightweight and movable – perfect for any workspace.
Finding the right machine can be a learning curve, even for the most experienced among us.
Happy Crafting!
If you already own a sewing machine, an embroidery machine could be your next investment.
I hope you find the best sewing and embroidery machine that meets your needs without costing you a fortune.
Good luck!
