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We tested over a dozen different sewing machines to find the top-performing options. Automatic Potato Chips Packing Machine
You don't need to be an expert sewer to benefit from owning a sewing machine. It allows you to easily hem new pants, fix small holes or tears and even design your dream wardrobe — all without going to the tailor. Whether you love embroidery, quilting, making clothes or are a beginner who's eager to learn, when shopping for a sewing machine, the crucial question to ask yourself is: What is most important to me when I sew?
To find the best sewing machines on the market, the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab put 13 different sewing machines, embroidery machines and sergers to the test, evaluating ease of threading, stitch accuracy with different fabrics, innovative features and more.
We analyzed the construction of each machine to ensure that they're built and intuitive to operate. GH sewing pros tested each machine in our Textiles Lab with different types of fabrics (including denim, chiffon, knits and more) with straight and zig-zag stitches to ensure the stitches were even without any imperfections. We also tested special features like buttonholes, embroidery and more. In addition to Lab testing, we researched top models and brands to find the styles that'll suit your specific sewing needs, including the best sewing machines for beginners.
After shopping from our curated selection of the top sewing machine models, keep reading to learn more about our testing protocols and find expert shopping advice from our Textiles Lab analysts.
One GH Textiles analyst has used this classic model from Brother, at home for over five years to sew clothes and craft projects alike. This machine combines the simplicity of a beginner machine with excellent features like a clear LCD screen, needle up/down and speed control. It includes a wider table to support bigger quilting and sewing projects. We found that this machine sewed through a variety of different fabrics with ease, including denim and upholstery fabric. It boasts an intuitive automatic needle threader, too. We recommend always using the spool cap when sewing to prevent the thread from sliding off.
If you're in the market for a beginner-friendly option that won't break the bank, this sewing machine might be your best match. You'll spend less than $200 for a small and mighty model that's perfect for tight workspaces. In our tests, the automatic needle threader was simple to use and can thread your needle in a few easy steps. We were impressed by how well this machine moved through different fabrics, including wool and cotton jersey; it only struggled with delicate fabrics like silk chiffon. During testing, we did notice the one-step buttonhole function got stuck a few times, but it ran smoothly after rethreading. This simple machine is ideal for hemming new clothes and repairing tiny tears and holes.
Beginners need a machine that is intuitive but has enough features to tackle more advanced tasks as they learn. This model from Brother is up to the task: it has clear threading and bobbin winding directions and still boasts a variety of button-holes, 70 stitch options and a needle up/down button. In our Lab evaluations, we found it easy to thread, change the presser feet and adjust the speed. It sewed through a variety of fabrics with minimal inaccuracies, but we found it handled satin materials with a bit of difficulty. Note that the thread holder may look short at first, but its height is actually adjustable. It includes 10 different presser feet with multiple bobbins to start your sewing journey.
One of the most popular heavy-duty sewing machines on the market, the Singer Heavy Duty 4452 sewing machine is great for sewing through challenging fabrics like denim and leather. The needles are size 16, which can penetrate multiple layers of tough fabrics like denim. A non-stick foot is included for other challenging fabrics like leather and vinyl. The pressure of the presser foot is adjustable, so you can use less force when sewing more lightweight fabrics. With 32 built-in stitches, this machine is great for heavy-duty and standard fabrics alike.
If you're completely new to sewing and want to buy your first machine — or even gift one to a teen — we recommend the Singer Start 1304. It's a simple machine with easy-to-use controls that won't overwhelm a novice sewer. Its small size (and light weight) makes it perfect to bring to sewing classes, and the metal frame ensures it'll last. Online reviewers especially appreciate the easily accessible back stitch and the simple controls for easy learning.
If you want to treat yourself to a top-of-the-line model, opt for a luxury sewing machine that can withstand constant use and offers excellent features for an expert sewer. Synonymous with high quality, this luxury Bernette sewing machine offers embroidery, quilting and standard sewing capabilities. We were blown away by the innovative features like automatic thread cutting and the ability to draw your own stitches on the touch screen with the included stylus.
With a massive library of 500 stitches and 17 buttonhole options, this machine can create your own combinations by remembering your exact stitch specifications for specific fabrics in its short- and long-term memory. It sewed through all types of fabrics with ease, including silk chiffon, polyester satin and wool. Although it is a pricey pick, it’s one of the most affordable Bernette models available.
If you plan to use your sewing machine mainly for fashion sewing, you want certain features like free arm capabilities for sleeves and cuffs, presser feet designed for hems and zippers and a variety of stitches and buttonholes. This Baby Lock model is ideal.
We found it easy to select stitches from the bright LCD screen and it includes a larger stitch guide to make it even easier to know which stitch you need. The machine will even remind you which presser foot to use with each stitch. With great ease-of-use features like adjustable speed, drop feed capabilities and seven included presser feet, we were impressed with how beautifully this machine sewed over a variety of different fabrics and produced accurate buttonholes every time. Plus, this machine has a maximum sewing speed of 850 stitches per minute for the speedy sewer.
Juki sewing machines are popular for being sturdy, long-lasting quilting machines that can tackle multiple layers of fabric easily – ideal for sewing large quilts, canvas and other thick fabrics. Some of our GH analysts actually learned how to sew on Juki machines!
This Juki machine boasts features designed just for quilting like automatic thread cutting, a knee lifter, presser foot pressure adjustment and free motion capabilities. The bright light makes it easy to see your detail work. Reviewers love that this advanced machine stays quite still when sewing quickly and makes minimal noise.
Designed specifically for beginner quilters, this sewing and quilting machine features manual speed controls for those who have difficulty keeping consistent and even pressure when using a traditional pedal. For those who don't like pedals at all, the start-stop function allows you to sew without using the foot control. It has over 100 built-in stitch applications including basic and decorative ones—and with each new stitch you select, the tension is automatically adjusted.
During testing, using the automatic buttonhole function was a breeze and we like that it has six different style options programmed into the machine — just select which style you prefer on the LCD screen with the tap of a button. We were impressed with how easy it was to change the presser foot with the quick-snap design. The automatic needle threader is also simple and easy to use. For a more advanced quilting option, we also like this luxe option from SINGER too.
Make sure to shop for an embroidery machine, in particular, if you want embroidery capabilities. This model offers excellent features at a reasonable price. We were amazed by how easy it was to set up embroidery designs on the Brother machines we tried.
The large color LCD screen makes it easy to preview and edit all embroidery designs. Although the machine already has 80 built-in designs, there’s a USB port to import your own, plus thousands of options from Brother online to upload. With free motion sewing, a bright work area and an automatic needle threader, this machine can do both embroidery and standard sewing. You can make your own clothes and then personalize them with embroidery designs and text.
Sewing machines help projects come together, but sergers finish them with a professional look. This Baby Lock Vibrant Serger helps finish edges with four, three or two thread edges and rolled hems. There’s a retractable thread cutter for easy trimming when finished. If you’re new to using a serger, this machine has a color-coded thread system to follow to make it easier. The feed and tensions can be adjusted for a personalized experience when sewing on different fabrics. We love that this machine includes over 30 accessories that you’ll need to keep this machine in excellent condition for years to come.
Although it weighs under 3 pounds, this mini sewing machine can handle many different sewing projects. Young sewers can benefit from the simple design for easy threading and the finger guard to prevent injuries. It has two different speeds, which is great for kids who are learning. This machine includes different colored threads and bobbins, scissors, a measuring tape, a seam ripper, needles and more to get started. Plus, it costs just about $40!
Once your child masters this machine and can sew safely, we recommend upgrading to a higher-end beginner model for more advanced projects.
We have tested dozens of sewing machines over the years, from machines for beginners to expert-level sewers. To determine which is best for your home, we gathered sewing machines from the top brands on the market and tested each in our Lab to see which is worth buying. In our latest test, we tested 13 different machines, leading to over 100 different data points to analyze. We evaluate each machine based on the following criteria:
✔️ Ease of use: Setting up your machine can be a difficult task, especially for new sewers. During our tests, we evaluate the readability of each instruction manual and all the accessories that come with every machine. We also evaluate the difficulty of changing the pressure foot, the comfort of pedal buttons and hand wheel as well as changing tension, speed and stitching for each machine.
✔️ Features: Today, sewing machines are becoming more and more advanced so we assess just how many features each one has. When testing, we look for features such as automatic or dial stitch selection, speed control and automatic needle threading. We and compare all features of each.
✔️ Performance: For this test, we use each machine on multiple fabrics to determine just how well each machine stitches. During this test, we use both natural and synthetic fabrics of different weights including lightweight cotton, polyester satin, wool, jersey cotton, denim and upholstery-grade fabric. On each fabric, we assess how well each machine performs when making a basic and zigzag stitch by grading imperfections during the stitching process. We also note just how well each machine performs when using multiple layers of fabrics using woven cotton, denim, jersey and cotton batting. Lastly, we create multiple buttonholes with all machines to assess the difficulty and accuracy of each.
Machines come with lots of different add-ons, accessories and capabilities that may not be relevant to you and just add unnecessary cost, while other features you cannot sew without. Here are some specific features to look at before shopping:
✔️ Type of sewing machine: Sewing machines are available in two general types: mechanical and computerized. A computerized machine doesn't necessarily mean higher-end or more expensive. It comes down to personal preference of which style you prefer. Computerized machines require more involved repair if they break down but offer more options compared to simpler mechanical machines. Some mechanical machines are quite pricey as they focus on durability vs. fancy features.
✔️ Number and styles of stitches offered: Beginner sewers will need just two stitches: straight and zigzag. More experienced sewers should look for a wider variety. For example, if you love embroidery or quilting, look for machines that provide those capabilities. If your machine doesn’t offer embroidery or free motion sewing, those features cannot be added later on. Additionally, make sure the machine has the capability to adjust stitch length, zigzag width and tension so you have more control over your sewing.
✔️ Included accessories: Most machines include a bobbin and a presser foot, but some include much more. For the most bang for your buck, check if the machine includes a zipper foot, buttonhole foot, embroidery foot, removable extended work table and an area for storage. We especially loved when machines included a clear manual or had excellent online offerings.
✔️ Extra features: Some machines include specific capabilities that can make sewing a whole lot easier like a thread cutter, automatic needle threader, lights, free arm, blind stitching, thread tie-off and buttonhole capabilities. Once you have them, sometimes you cannot imagine sewing on a machine without them.
✔️ Frame construction: For the longevity of the machine, look for a metal frame option. Plastic frames are common but can deteriorate quickly and be more difficult to repair. Some machines have manual back stitch and presser foot up/down while others are computerized; computerized options will likely require more complicated repair if they stop working.
As with all sewing machines, make sure to read the included or online manual carefully before sewing, as every machine has slightly different use and care instructions. Then, sew away!
Emma Seymouris a senior textiles product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she's worked for more than four years, overseeing in-Lab and consumer tests for sewing machines, embroidery machines and sergers. She tested each machine in our Lab alongside other sewing pros to find the top-performing machines. With a degree in fiber science and apparel design from Cornell University, she has extensive sewing experience and product quality expertise.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
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