The best sewing machines for every budget and experience level—including top models from Bernina, Singer, and Janome

Whatever your skill and budget, there’s a sewing machine to match your needs on the market, but with countless sewing machines available, finding the right one for you is a near-impossible task. So, we’ve done all the hard work for you and put the best sewing machines to the test. 

From mechanical models with basic stitches to high-tech computerized sewing machines with an abundance of features, our craft editor, Esme Clemo, reviewed the best of the bunch from the leading sewing machine brands. After weeks of putting the machines through their paces, looking at stitch ranges, design, price, durability, and overall sewing performance, we’ve whittled down our list to the following six best sewing machines. 

How to choose the best sewing machine for you

When faced with the plethora of sewing machines on the market, the technical jargon and multiple options can overwhelm even the most experienced of stitchers. These should be your key considerations when choosing the best sewing machine for you.

Know your sewing level

The first thing you need to do when looking for the best sewing machine for your needs is to figure out your sewing level. Is this your first sewing machine? Would you class yourself as a beginner? If the answer to both these questions is yes, firstly, you might want to take a look at the best sewing machines for beginners. But generally, you should start by looking at mechanical machines. Generally, mechanicals have a limited number of basic stitches and can be programmed at the twist of a wheel. Super simple.

Anything more than this and you move into computerized sewing machines. These are perfect for intermediate sewers who want to expand their stitching skills and advance into embroidery, free-motion stitching, quilting and more. They make the perfect transition from simply stitching up a garment or home furnishing to adding embellishment and intricate detailing. More experienced stitchers will usually have a niche, be it quilting, embroidery, garment making—the list goes on. Usually, this determines the type of machine required. So, for example, a quilter who would be on the look for the best sewing machines for quilting would be looking for a machine with a long arm and extendable bed, to name just a few specialist features. 

Set yourself a budget

It’s easy to become distracted by the gadgets and gizmos on offer on the best sewing machines, without paying attention to the price tag, which increases dramatically with the high-end sewing machines on offer, so make sure to set a budget and stick to it. Work out where you’re going to sew and store your sewing machine. Size matters with a sewing machine, especially when it comes to storage, so pay attention to the model measurements. Don’t forget about the weight, too, and how this might affect your sewing space.

Decide how many stitches you want

It’s a numbers game when choosing the best sewing machine for you, especially when it comes down to stitch types. If you’re savvy, research how the higher stitch numbers are selected on the machine. Sometimes, it’s a fiddly and complicated process that takes a long time to master, so you might want to avoid those models.

The best sewing machines as chosen by our experts

For fuss-free sewing at speed, the Janome Sewist 780DC is for you, which is why it's one of our best sewing machine picks. As the newest model to launch from the Sewist series, the Janome Sewist 780DC boasts all the latest gadgetry. Even with these time-saving and high-tech additions, the Janome Sewist 780DC never loses its simplicity of design and ease of use. It’s the perfect all-rounder. 

Compared with the other models in our best sewing machines guide, you might be thinking that 80 built-in stitches is an uninspiring number. However, unless you’re planning on embroidering every sewing project you embark upon with letters, numbers, and names, you honestly don’t need any more than what this machine has to offer.

So, whether you’re a beginner or intermediate sewer, this is a great mid-range model to step up to from a mechanical, especially if some of the more complex computerized sewing machines are putting you off. 

Read our full Janome Sewist 780DC sewing machine review

With the Bernina 435, every single detail has been thought about, every function adapted to help the sewing machine perform faster and be easier to use—which is why we've included it in our best sewing machine round-up. For example, if you’re a sewer who likes to tackle big projects, the jumbo bobbin leads to fewer interruptions throughout your stitching and the included slide-on extension table provides ample sewing space. 

And what about the unrivaled amount of stitch patterns on offer? True, some might find this an overwhelming selection to choose from, but with an in-built memory function to save and store your stitch settings, you can return to your favorites time and again at the click of a button.

If you’re still wondering what all the fuss is about, it comes down to the color display and interactive touch screen. Feel like it’s a bit too technical for you? The on-screen Sewing Consultant can help you choose the right settings to suit your stitches and your projects, and it’s always there at the touch of a button to help guide you through.

Read our full Bernina 435 sewing machine review

The Silver 197, named after the huge range of built-in stitches, is the perfect all-rounder for both beginners and accomplished sewers. The budget-friendly price tag doesn’t reflect the comprehensive range of features it has to offer, of which there are plenty.

Speed-saving functions, like the automatic needle threader, start/stop button as a foot pedal alternative and LCD display might not set this machine apart from its competitors. However, the memory mode used to store up your favorite stitch settings, and the stitch range that includes alphabetical and numerical options, place this machine above the rest. 

It might not be the quietest machine or have the least vibration, but it makes up for these traits by being the cheapest model and best sewing machine on a budget, that offers the user the most creativity.

Read our full Silver 197 sewing machine review

The Necchi NC-102D ticks all the boxes. The first thing to note about the Necchi NC-102D is the way it looks. Its modern appearance and pop of color make it a standout model among the rest, but you’d be wrong in thinking this model is all style over substance. 

With 200 utility and decorative stitches, including an alphanumeric stitch range, this model packs in a lot of features for the mid-level price tag. There’s a rare mute button, to keep your stitching schtum, and all the usual gadgetry and automatic functions you’d expect from a computerized machine, along with a memory feature.

If that’s not enough, the included nine presser feet are sure to win you over if you want to bag a bargain. Our best sewing machine pick if you want value-for-money.

Read our full Necchi NC-102-D sewing machine review

The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is a must-have machine for speedy stitchers. Compared with the computerized machines on this list, you might be wondering why we’re championing a mechanical model. The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 is in a league of its own when it comes to durability and build. With a metal internal frame, this sewing machine is built to last. 

Capable of stitching up to 1,100 stitches per minute, the speed alone makes this sewing machine noteworthy. Plus, it makes very little noise and no vibration, even when pushed to these top speeds. So, if you’re looking for an option that can keep up with you, you’ve found it.

It’s easy to operate, too, with dials to select stitch options and a foot pedal to control stitching. The Singer Heavy Duty 4423 goes back to basics, but it does it brilliantly—and in a stylish grey finish, too. 

Read our full Singer Heavy Duty 4423 sewing machine review

The Pfaff 1.5 Creative delivers specialized embroidery functions for sewing pros. This modern sewing machine brand is the best on the market for computer-integrated software, so you can completely personalize your stitching experience.

Looks-wise, the Pfaff 1.5 Creative has a sleek and elegant design, which helps it to stand out from the crowd, but this isn’t a machine that puts style over substance. It produces high-speed embroideries perfectly, helped by the Original IDT system and the included master hoop attachment. 

Admittedly, this is a specialist machine, so if you’re an enthusiastic embroiderer or want to use your machine for quilting, it’s the perfect model for you, with a large sewing space and 150 beautiful built-in stitches to choose from. The best sewing machine if you're after something a bit more specialist.

Read our full Pfaff 1.5 Creative sewing machine review

The Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition is perfect for beginners and confident stitchers alike. This machine creates high-quality, precision stitching at top speeds of 850 stitches per minute. With a vast range of 60 stitches to choose from, you can sew simple seams with the utility stitches or add decorative topstitching to a project with the embroidery options.

At this affordable price, the Brother Innov-is A60 Special Edition works hard to deliver on a range of practical and time-saving features without sacrificing on simplicity. The modern LCD display screen is so easy to use and the illustrations on the body of the machine help to guide new users around threading techniques. 

So, whether you’re a beginner or advanced sewer (though we reckon this is the best sewing machine for beginners), this machine is sure to impress.

How do I use a sewing machine?

If you're new to sewing, taking on one of the best sewing machine picks might seem overwhelming at first. But after a little while getting to grips with the model, it won't be long before you're making beautiful creations. Take a look at our in-depth guide on how to use a sewing machine. It covers all the bases for getting started, like how to set up your machine, how to thread a sewing machine, and a deep-dive on all the buttons, sliders and dials and what they do.  

What fabric should I use?

If you’re a beginner, stick to medium-weight cotton fabrics for easy-stitching. Once you’re confident with cotton, you can progress to light-weight voile fabrics or thick canvas-like fabric for robust upholstery and furnishings. Mastered that? Have a go at sewing with stretch fabrics, thin jerseys or thicker knitted styles. Remember, you’ll need to refer to your sewing machine manual to select the best stitches for your fabrics.

What other equipment do I need?

Once you’ve purchased the best sewing machine for you, it’s a good idea to stock up on some sewing thread and fabrics so you can get going with your sewing projects straight away. Invest in a pair of good fabric shears, Fiskars have a great range that stay razor sharp. You’ll also need a rotary cutter and cutting mat if you want to have a go at patchwork or quilting. Fancy dressmaking? Buy some beginner sewing patterns.

What are the best, most reliable sewing machine brands?

While every machine we've featured above is a fantastic option, there are some sewing machine brands that truly stand out, and have become firm favorites with sewing fans over the decades. 

PFAFF

One of the most popular and most reliable brands out there is PFAFF—and Rosie Scott and Hannah Silvani, the duo behind The New Craft House, a sewing company in London, agree.

“We are huge fans of PFAFF machines," they explained. "We couldn't sew without our PFAFFs now." There are plenty of reasons why this brand has developed a big following. “The machines sew so smoothly and never mess up. They're super well made and a true joy to sew on,” Rosie and Hannah tell us. “Almost all of the PFAFF models have what's called the IDT system, which is basically a built-in walking foot. It makes sewing fine or slippery (as well as heavy or bulky) fabrics a breeze.”

Bernina

Many of the experts we spoke to recommended Bernina, so there's no doubt they are one of the most reliable around. It seems that it’s a brand whose machines stand the test of time. “My beloved Bernina sewing machine is nearly thirty-five years old,” says Cheryl Owen, a sewing expert and author. “I’ve had it since new and use it most days.” For a reliable machine that will last a lifetime, a Bernina is the way to go.

Admittedly, Bernina is a costly brand with prices starting at £749 (that’s for the Bernina 325). If your budget allows though, it’s worth investing in a sewing machine that will last. "Personally I love a Bernina," says Lisa Comfort, from Sew Over It, a London-based sewing company. "They aren't necessarily entry level sewing machines as they can be quite expensive, but they are the best on the market. They are long-lasting, very smooth and quiet."

Janome

A staple among keen stitchers, Janome comes up trumps as a reliable brand with a large range of the best sewing machines to suit all your stitching needs. For the sewing experts we spoke to, its mid-price models seem to be the most popular. “Many of the machines come with hundreds of decorative stitches, which is lovely if you'll use them, but if you don't, why pay more for a machine that has this feature?” says Kate Underdown from The Fold Line, an online sewing pattern shop. “My current machine is a Janome M50 QDC—it's a mid-level machine in terms of price and has some great features.” 

Singer

Another tried-and-tested brand, Singer is a stalwart manufacturer of the best sewing machines. A household name, many families will have had a Singer machine at some point, be it a vintage hand-crank model passed down through the generations or one of the later (just as dependable) machines. There's a reason they are so popular, producing reliable, long-lasting, and brilliantly made machines.