Sewing Machine Brands - 12 Best Ones to Purchase

In the lineup 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. This tutorial will go through all the main sewing machine brands so you can make the best decision with your next purchase.

Sewing Machine Brands Tutorial

Here are the best-known sewing machine brands and sewing machine manufacturers :

1. Babylock
2. Bernina
3. Bernette
4. Brother
5. Elna
6. Husqvarna Viking
7. Jaguar
8. Janome
9. Juki
10. Singer
11. Pfaff
12. Toyota

How to Choose the Best Sewing Machine Brands

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 from that below as changes and mergers of sewing machine companies have occurred over the years. Read more about buying a used sewing machine.

Manufacturing of Sewing Machine Brands

The company SVP Worldwide now manufactures Singer, Pfaff, and Husqvarna sewing machine brands.

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 also 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.

Best Sewing Machine Brands

Baby Lock

Baby Lock is a newer and less-known brand of sewing machine that was created in 1968 in Japan. They actually produced the first home serger.

While Baby Lock is a separate company from Brother, some machines are made in the same factory, so they have a similar look. Baby Lock has a large part of the share of the Japanese sewing market.

Company Website: https://www.babylock.co.jp/global/

Bernina

Bernina sewing machine brand 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.

Many Bernina sewing machines are still made in Switzerland, but they also have a manufacturing plant in Thailand. As a general rule, their more expensive machines are made in Switzerland.

Bernina is the parent company of Bernette which is the name used for many of their domestic sewing machines.

Company Website: https://www.bernina.com/

Sewing Machine Brands FAQs

What is the Most Popular Sewing Machine Brand?

The most popular and well-known sewing machine brands are Singer, Brother, Juki, and Janome. These brands make machines in the most popular pricing categories for home sewers. Some of the higher-end sewing machine brands include Pfaff, Bernina, and Husqvarna.

If you look on Amazon, you will realize that popularity is dominated by brands with strong representation in models that are under $500.

What are the Most Reliable Sewing Machine Brands?

When looking at the most reliable brands, consider buying any of the well-known ones such as Singer, Brother, Janome, Juki, Pfaff, Bernina, and Husqvarna. This list is not exhaustive as you will find lots of brand models with popularity in different sewing circles.

Before purchasing individual models, look at the reviews online and post questions in sewing forums. Even good brands can have hits and misses in their sewing machine lineups.

Where to Buy Sewing Machine Brands

You can buy sewing machines from online marketplaces such as Amazon or your local sewing machine store. The advantage of buying in person is that you get to try the machine first. If you are on a budget, then why not consider purchasing a used sewing machine.

What is the Best Sewing Machine Brand for a Beginner

If you are a beginner looking for the best sewing machine brand, first think about your budget and sewing requirements as this will affect your choice. Any from the well-known ones such as Singer, Brother, Janome, Juki, Pfaff, Bernina, and Husqvarna will do you well.

If you have never sewn before and want a reasonably priced machine to try this new hobby, then I suggest you look at the lower-end Brother machines.

What Other Things Should I Look at When Buying a Sewing Machine?

Besides the sewing machine brand, you should think about what functions you require the machine to do. There are specialty machines within each brand, such as quilting machines, computerized sewing machines, embroidery machines, and heavy-duty sewing machines. This is not even exhaustive!

Also, look at the extra features, such as adjustable stitch length and the presser feet that come with the machine. If you are going to sew heavy fabrics such as denim, you will need a more heavy-duty machine.

Sewing Machine Brands - In Conclusion

A good sewing machine is a worthwhile investment. One machine of good quality could last you a lifetime. Investing in a leading sewing machine brand could even lead to starting a small home business. Choose wisely and look for sewing machine brands with solid reputations.