In the line up of top sewing machine brands, there are tried and trusted names that have been around in sewing circles for a long time. Then there are newer, equally efficient machines made with new technology and modern materials. Some machines with modern technology, are computerized and perform multi-functions while other mechanical machines are long-lasting with limited functions.
Table of Contents
Sewing Machine Brands
Here are tbest-known sewing machine brands in alphabetical order.
- Babylock
- Bernina
- Brother
- Elna
- Husqvarna Viking
- Jaguar
- Janome
- Juki
- Singer
- Pfaff
- Toyota
A lot of people like to know where their machines are manufactured and while that does affect pricing, I would not prioritize this information when purchasing a new machine.
Look at the brand’s reputation and its market share as well as its quality positioning. Sometimes the same factory can manufacture a lower quality machine and a higher quality machine. Also, keep in mind that industrial machines are far more expensive than domestic machines although they have fewer features.
If you are purchasing a second-hand machine you may find the country of manufacture different to that below as changes and mergers have occurred to many of these companies over the years. And of course, changes may be made in the future since the publication of this article. Many sewing machine brands have multiple manufacturing plants so it is always best to double-check the information when you are purchasing a machine.
Sewing machine brands may have hits and misses in their catalogs so always check for reviews on the particular model you are looking at. While not absolute, Amazon customer reviews are a good place to start keeping in mind that cheaper models often have higher quantities of reviews since they sell more often. Look at the ratings of the reviews rather than the number of reviews for higher-priced machines.
Sewing Machine Brands – Bernina
Bernina was founded in Switzerland and was one of the first machines to be able to offer multiple functions. Bernina has a wide range of machines from the simple starter level to high technology, computerized embroidery machines and sergers.
Bernina is still made in Switzerland and is known for a high-quality product. Bernina is the parent company of Bernette which is the name used for many of their domestic sewing machines.
Company Website: www.bernina.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Brother
This is a very popular machine and also made in China, Vietnam and Taiwan. Brother has the reputation of being easy to operate and easy to maintain in good order.
Brother machines are a good balance of plentiful features at a lower price hence their popularity. Brother machines are manufactured in China and Taiwan.
Company Website: www.brother-usa.com/HomeSewing/
Sewing Machine Brands – Elna
Elna is a Swiss design and resonates well with top quality. Elna has a wide selection of machines including top quality embroidery machines and sergers.
My mother has an old Elna machine with a metal body that was my grandmothers and it still sews beautifully. I’m guessing it is from the 1950s and although it only straight stitches the quality of those straight stitches beat my modern machines. Elna machines are currently manufactured by JANOME factories that are located in Japan, Thailand and Taiwan.
Company Website: www.elna.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Husqvarna
Husqvarna Viking is a Swedish brand. It has a reputation for high-quality machines. Husqvarna introduced the zig-zag function to their machines in 1947. They make all kinds of machines, including sergers, and are reputed to have been the first to introduce a microchip into their machines.
Husqvarna is owned by the same company as Singer and Pfaff and is mainly manufactured in China.
Company Website: www.husqvarnaviking.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Jaguar
Jaguar is another well-known brand name associated with quality cars. Their sewing machines are manufactured in Japan. Their quality parts are all made of metal and this ensures a long-lasting machine.
Company Website: https://jaguarsewingmachines.co.uk/
Sewing Machine Brands – Janome
There is a wide range of models manufactured by Janome including sewing machines, sergers and coverstich machines.
Janome has a consistently top class reputation. They produce industrial machines and smaller models for home use. Janome was one of the first machines to make a computerized household sewing machine and is strong in the market for home embroidery machines with their memory craft series.
I own several Janome machines and have found them good quality machines that last well.
Janome machines are manufactured in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand.
Company Website: www.janome.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Juki
This sewing machine brand is based in Japan and started with just making industrial sewing machines. Today they have a wide range of industrial and home sewing machines for sewing including electronic machines and sergers. Wikipedia lists them as the number one sewing machine manufacturer in the world. They certainly dominate the rag trade and produce quality workhorses that last.
Manufacturing of Juki is done in Japan, Vietnam and China.
Company Website: www.juki.co.jp/en/products/home/
Sewing Machine Brands – Pfaff
This sewing machine brand originated in Germany in 1962 and was founded by George Michael Pfaff. Eventually, the brand was purchased by SVP Group who owns Singer and it is currently manufactured in China.
The Pfaff brand has improved through the influence of other companies, but the machine has retained its original name and is known for a high-quality product.
Company Website: www.pfaff.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Singer
Singer is a sewing machine brand name that is one of the most well-known makes on the market.
The functions and quality of the machine differ as there is a wide range to choose from. It is important to research well and get the right machine for your needs.
Singer makes modern heavy-duty mechanical machines with metal internal bodies that are particularly popular and highly regarded. They also make computerized upmarket machines for sewers looking for additional features.
Vintage Singer sewing machines are now collectibles and you will probably recognize these black metal machines with gold writing. Many have intricate and beautiful gold scrolls which is why they are so in demand.
I own a Singer serger that is now 30 years old and still going strong. I’ve also owned a Singer industrial leather machine I purchased second hand that was a powerhouse and sewed beautifully.
It had its origins in America, but now like many others, is manufactured in China.
Company website – www.singer.com
Sewing Machine Brands – Toyota
Toyota is a name generally associated with cars but also has sewing machines manufactured under its branding. Toyota specializes in computerized machines and electro-mechanical machines.
Company Website: www.home-sewing.com/en/
Sewing Machine Brands – In Conclusion
A good sewing machine is a worthwhile investment. One machine of good quality could last you a lifetime. There will always be repairs on clothing or alterations to do at home. Making your own soft furnishings can save you money and be very satisfying. Investing in a sewing machine could even lead to starting a small home industry. Choose wisely and look for machines with solid reputations.
Patty Carey says
I have a few machines. Juki is favorite. Baby loc as well. Hate my brand new bernina. Very overrated. Baby loc hands down for serger.
Megan R says
I have owned Janomes and I love them. I have a small one for retreats, and a 6600 for home and 2 sergers
Vanessa says
I purchased a 1958 Singer 403a from a thrift store for 10 dollars. It is a well built machine. It sews like a dream. I’m now on the hunt for the Rocketeer 500 series.
Connie Gelfer says
I love my bernina machines and they run with little maintenance (cleaning, lubrication) for well over 25 years.
Doressa Carlton says
The Bernina 830 I bought in 2010. Definitely do not recommend Bernina sewing machines! They cost me a fortune in repairs!
Sandra McKenzie says
I’ve had a BabyLock Quest for several years, and, for the most part, liked it. I just took my machine in for routine maintenance, and because I was having a problem with my needle jamming into the bobbin. Turns out, my problem was caused by a broken gear that runs the bobbin. No replacement part available. So now my BabyLock is essentially toast.
Treasurie says
Thanks for this information!
DALBY says
“Bernina is still made in Switzerland” Not really true. The top of range model is but the rest of the models are made in Asia just like every brand these days. Up until recently Bernina sergers were made by Juki.
Most budget machines of any brand are made in the same handful of Asian factories as tooling up for new budget machines on a regular basis would be cost-prohibitive.
Treasurie says
Yes, they are great too although not as easy to find in some countries. They are popular in the US.
Dodi says
What about Babylock? They are one of the top brands and one of the best, IMO.