What is the best embroidery machine when no one’s looking?
Trying to find the best of the best products on the market is challenging. But it’s for people like me to figure out the easiest way to find those products.
All you need to do is sit back and leaf through this guide and make your decision. Yes, it’s that simple!
Contents
Comparing 5 Embroidery Machines
If you want to know how to make better choices, you need a comparison table. A comparison table does a good job at introducing you to the top choices. Starting from the Editor’s Choice! And down to the least favorite, but a highly-competitive model.
If you’re asking, “What is the best embroidery machine for me?” The right answer is closer than you think!
embroidery Machine Name | Our Rating | Type | Number of Stitches |
---|---|---|---|
#1 Editor’s Choice | Computerized Embroidery Machine | 600 stitches | |
#2 | Computerized Embroidery Machine | 63 stitches | |
#3 | Single-Needle Embroidery Machine | 136 stitches | |
#4 | Computerized Embroidery Machine | 125 stitches | |
#5 | Computerized Embroidery Machine | 215 stitches |
* All links above will take you to the latest prices on Amazon.com or you can read our in-depth embroidery machine reviews below.
1 SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Machine - Editor's Choice
The features of the Singer Stylish 9960 has more to offer to beginners and professionals. It goes above and beyond the high number of stitches. This includes features such as the digital information advisor and speed control lever. All it wants for you is to do your best work!
What makes this embroidery machine the best? It’s an easy threading and loading design. Not to mention, the adjustable stitch options that make everything simple. Each time you’re finished on a set pattern. This machine lets you move over to the next in no time.
Making it the ideal choice for beginners who like to stick to the basics. While also being a heavy-duty companion for experienced users who like to experiment. Speedy performance and consistency in stitches are impressive.
Adjusting the stitch length and width takes less time than usual. Plus, you get clear visual confirmation of it. That is through its LCD screen and 2 LED lights. The free arm and needle up/down button functionality are easy to use.
Lastly, you can use this machine on denim. All it takes is the right heavy needle and a few adjustments.
The only thing left to do, at this point, is to buy it right away! This answers your question – what is the best embroidery machine?
The number of stitches on this machine are impressive. For embroidering, you can double up on the thread to increase durability. This is because the embroidery stitches look a little thinner than usual.
If you’re an avid user, a strong housing is probably important to you. I am concerned about this machine’s plastic housing. It looks a bit worn out and flimsy. And you might have to take extra care of it while using and storing.
Pros
Cons
2 Brother SE400 Combination - Best Embroidery Machine for Basic Home Projects
My go-to solution to all my embroidering problems is the Brother SE400. There’s no stopping with this best embroidery machine. It’s got the basics covered with the use of advanced features.
Trust me; you’re better off with this computerized combination machine. That’s because it gives you the power to do anything you want. You can embellish home décor to clothing and still have plenty of time left. The days of ‘having a guy’ to get this done are over!
You’ll feel more at ease and satisfied with your projects. And the 98 stitch functions and 63 sewing stitches makes sure of that.
As for the basics, it has an automatic needle threader and bobbin winding system. Connect it to your computer via USB and save all your custom designs. There’s nothing more you could ask for in an embroidery machine, is there?
The touchscreen is LCD with back-lit features. It means you can work on your projects at any time of day or night. You can rotate the image, mirror it, and adjust its size to better accessibility.
The needle tension on this machine is a bit off. Make sure you buy strong needles to go with the spool. This makes it difficult to embroider thick materials like denim.
Pros
Cons
Brother SE-400 Sewing & Embroidery Machine Overview
3 Brother Embroidery Machine PE770 - Best Embroidery Machine for Hobbyists
The Brother’s line of embroidery machines has always been my first love. They have features that are superior to others. Take the machine’s LCD touchscreen as an example.
With this best embroidery machine, you’re going to make every stitch count. It has over 100 built-in stitch designs and a built-in memory and USB port. So go all in and save as many designs as you want.
The Brother PE770 has more than a few tricks up its sleeves. And once you try it, going back to basic is not an option. You can make full use of its stabilizers, needle types, and hooping tensions. It’s one of the most versatile competitors on this list.
As for the basic features, you’re better off with this than something you bought on a whim! The answer to – what is the best embroidery machine? - is never that easy.
It’s important that you read the manual before using it for the first time. The machine has a few glitches you need to get around for better know-how. It meets expectations but not without you putting in effort.
What’s not interesting about this embroidery machine is the hoop. They’re not suitable for crafting smaller projects.
Pros
Cons
Brother PE-770 Embroidery Machine Overview
4 Singer Futura XL400 Portable Sewing - Best embroidery machine for varied stitches
If you want to buy a well-equipped and portable embroidery machine. Go for the Singer Futura XL400. It comes packed with many features and accessories. And it does a great job at offering a wide variety of designs for the creative in you.
This combination sewing and embroidery machine has a large stitch capability. This means it can suit the likes of bigger projects that require stamina. The large working table, speed, smart threading system are amazing.
They’re proof of the fact that the value of this embroidery machine is hard to beat. As much as that is my opinion on the matter, I’d like it to be yours too.
The sturdiness and durability of this machine are impressive. The drop and sew bobbin system improves the way you start from scratch. You don’t have to spend more than a few seconds on switching out bobbins.
You have to keep adjusting the tension as you go long. Even though the machine has the tension “E” for embroidering. You will soon understand that you need to improvise on that setting. Based on the thickness and texture of the fabric you’re using.
While this best embroidery machine meets all expectations. What it falls back on is the spool stand. It comes off quite easily. And doesn’t feel like it’s up to the task of holding the thread correctly.
Pros
Cons
5 Singer Futura XL-580 - Best Embroidery Machine for Professionals
You know that feeling when you get all the settings right the first time. It’s like a dream come true in the embroidery world, right? Well, all this is possible with the Singer Futura XL-580.
This best embroidery machine is the perfect match for professionals. It has over 200 built-in stitch designs. It’s automatic, super-fast, and durable. The drop-and-sew bobbin system is also impressive. It quickens the process of threading the needle and sewing.
Did you know you can apply pressure without using your hands? With the hands-free, knee lifter feature of this machine, you can! There’s much to love about this embroidery machine. And a lot more to experiment with! So what are you waiting for?
Take it from me; you don’t want to waste your money on manual embroidering. This machine is compatible with any design software. That’s the beauty of its computerized performance. You get what you pay for with this.
The only downside that put me down was the foot presser. It’s a bit difficult to maneuver if you don’t know to embroider.
Pros
Cons
What is the Best Embroidery Machine for Me? – Buying Guide

What is the best embroidery machine for everyone? That is the wrong question you’re asking there! Everybody has different preferences when it comes to sewing.
Are you a picky buyer? Is there something specific you want from an embroidery machine? Maybe you want free-motion embroidery for complete control and skill. After all, it’s a matter of personal preference. And that’s exactly why you need to read the following information.
You won’t know what an embroidery machine can do for you. At least not until you read about it. An embroidery machine is nothing but an easy-to-use and practical tool. It saves you hours and hours of handiwork. Plus, helps you get more creative with your at-home or work projects.
So giving importance to the way it’s made is as important as the rest of it.
You should know that there are many types of embroidery machines. Like combination sewing, single-needle, multi-needle, and many such models on the market. The best way to know - what is the best embroidery machine for you – is to read a little about each of them.

Photo credit: sewingfromhome.com
Combined Embroidery Machine
With this type of machine, you get both single and multi-needle performance. The machine runs automatic adjusting the needle as and when you need it. Such an embroidery machine is versatile, energy-efficient, and durable.
Single-Needle Embroidery Machine
If you’re looking for a more basic model, go for a single-needle embroidery machine. It’s super-fast, accurate, and effective.
In short, a single-needle machine has simple but practical skills to boast of. You can use it for making intricate stitches.
Multi-Needle Embroidery Machine
In a multi-needle machine, you get four to ten needles in a single attachment. If a single-needle model is on level one for embroidering, then multi-needle is on level two. It’s a step ahead in terms of accuracy and speed. Making it the best embroidery machine for serious users!
With multiple needles, you can use different color threads in each hoop. The average speed of it is 400 to 1000 stitches per minute.
Free-Motion Embroidery Machine
A free-motion embroidery machine boasts of ease of use and manual functions. You have full control over the needle’s adjustability, size, and form. Unlike a computerized version, YOU get to move the needle to make more accurate stitches.
(Note: Beginners generally start using computerized embroidery machines to understand the basic functions. A free-motion model demands more sewing skills which only experienced users possess.)
Computerized Embroidery Machine
A modern way to get simple to complex tasks done is with a computerized model. The features that make this machine model are wireless or USB connectivity. You can download your designs on your computer. Upload it to the embroidery machine. And improvise as you move forward.
A computerized embroidery machine gives you a wide range of decorative designs. It’s the best upgrade for the buck! If you want an immediate answer to, “What is the best embroidery machine?” This is it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
What’s the difference between an embroidery and sewing machine?

You don’t have to be a know-it-all to understand the difference between the two. The fundamental difference between is that a sewing machine pieces two fabrics together. And an embroidery machine is more decorative than constructive.
A simpler explanation would be that a sewing machine makes a fabric ready-for-use. And an embroidery machine makes a fabric appealing and creative. Modern sewing machines come with stitch designs. But they’re not as accurate as embroidering.
You wouldn’t want an embroidering machine if you want to mend torn clothes. Or you want to piece two materials together. In the same manner, you wouldn’t want a sewing machine if you want to create creative designs on a material.
2
What does an embroidery machine consist of?
The following are the important features of an embroidery machine:
Bobbin

Photo credit: sewingfromhome.com
A bobbin supports the thread in an embroidery machine. It has a spool design. Modern machines offer more than one bobbin capacity. This means you can increase the number of threads for a versatile design.
Needle

Photo credit: stitchers-source.com
The importance of a needle in an embroidery machine is paramount. So it’s safe to say that an embroidery machine is completely incomplete without a needle. Most embroidery machines come with their own needle. And a few extra needles as back-up. But you can purchase an entire package of needles as you wish.
Hoop

Photo credit: shelikestosew.com
The hoop is what keeps the fabric steady under the needle. High-quality machines contain more than one hoop. This improves performance making the fabric stay in its right place. When you use a computerized embroidery machine, it’s a lot better. Because the hoop avoids errors in needle movement and speed!
Display Screen

A display screen is a productive feature in an embroidery machine. You won’t know how to operate a machine without one. A good display screen has digital settings is linked to your computer for saving designs.
Final Verdict
My Choice: SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960
If you’re anything like me, you want to know, “What is the best embroidery machine?” Don’t worry; you’ve come to the right place!
With my heavy research and comparison, my recommendations are for everyone. Each embroidery machine has its own charm. So you’ll be able to use it to your own advantage. Particularly top models like the SINGER Quantum Stylist 9960!
And understand this; you can even add your own spin to sewing and embroidering. That is if you’ve got tons of exciting ideas to work on!
Related Tips and Tricks from SheLovesBest Lists:
- Singer 4423 vs. 4411 vs. 4432 vs. 4452 (What is The Best Heavy Duty Sewing Machine?)
- What Is The Best Sewing Machine For Quilting? (Top 5 Reviews)
- Singer 7258 vs. Brother CS6000i – Compare Singer vs. Brother Sewing Machine (Which Is The Best?)
- Brother SE400 vs. SE425 vs. SE600 Reviews (What is The Best Embroidery and Sewing Machine?)
- Best Coverstitch Machine Reviews - What To Buy In 2022 - Top 10 Choices
3 comments
I’m new to machine embroidery, we purchased SINGER Futura XL-580 after doing a lot of research. I can tell you from experience, watch you tube videos, read everything you can find about the machine before you even open the box. The read the manual completely through before you do anything else.
One problem that we had was the dreaded top thread broken error. Then we read in the manual (when threading the top thread in the machine, the foot must be raised or in the up position) Learning this helped the most for us. Then learn which backing to use on which application, this helped us a lot as well.
This machine does a great job for the money, you just need to read that manual and watch you tube. You will learn a lot there. We found running the speed lined up with the “p” in speed on the machine works best for us so far. Started out running it in the slowest speed for several projects before speeding it up. We also run the tension one notch higher than what the machine automatically comes up on. We have had this machine for 3 weeks now and are loving it so far. I will admit, I has been pretty annoying at times.
But we just keep moving forward with it. Bottom Line, GREAT MACHINE FOR THE MONEY! The reason for 4 stars instead of 5, we feel like the manual could be some better.
My wife is really into embroidery and I have been thinking about getting her a new embroidery machine for Christmas. Thank you for the recommendations, I think I might follow your recommendation since I do not know much about the machines. Before this article, I thought that a sewing machine and an embroidery machine were one and the same, but I now know that the embroidery machine is about decorating.
Thanks! I hope this article is helpful for you 🙂