Best Computerised Sewing Machine - Compared 2023 - 2024

Last Updated On December 29, 2022 by Carole
Editor's Choice
Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
Value for Money
Brother FS100WT Free Motion Embroidery/Sewing and Quilting Machine
Janome Memory Craft 550E Embroidery Machine
Product Name
Product Name
Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
Brother FS100WT Free Motion Embroidery/Sewing and Quilting Machine
Janome Memory Craft 550E Embroidery Machine
Product Dimension
Product Dimension
53 x 47 x 40 cm
51.51 x 32.21 x 45.59 cm
65.2 x 61.8 x 56.4 cm
Product Weight
Product Weight
12.8 kg
7.5 Kg
18.74 kg
Stitch Types
Stitch Types
125
100
180
Embroidery
Embroidery
Yes
Yes
Yes
Quilting
Quilting
Yes
Yes
Yes

Computerised Sewing Machines: The Official 2020 Guide

Whether you've grown an interest in arts and crafts over the notorious COVID-19 lockdown, or you're looking to further invest and upgrade your pre-existing crafts collection, it is worth looking into investing in a computerised sewing machine.

Computerised sewing machines are a revolutionary, innovative solution to many sewing difficulties.


Short On Time?

Our Recommended Best Computerised Sewing Machine Is The Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting, and Embroidery Machine!

Editor's Choice
Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
  • 125 built-in embroidery patterns, including 45 designs featuring Disney characters
  • 181 sewing stitches
  • High quality performance with compact size
  • 3.7” colour LCD touch screen
  • USB port for USB flash drive

1) Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting, and Embroidery Machine

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="1"]

First on our list of the best computerised sewing machines is the Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery machine by Brother. Brother have been repeatedly mentioned throughout our specialist site as well as through the mouths of various online crafting bloggers- they provide unmatched quality and a reputation for their products' lifespans.

The Innovis M280D sewing machine is on the more expensive end of the spectrum, but it does come with some arguably unmissable features including a vast collection of 181 different stitch designs, built-in Disney character motifs, and 125 embroidery patterns.

What We Love

Take a look below for a summary of the best features, specialities, and advantages of the Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting, and Embroidery Computerised Machine.

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="2"]

Wide Range of Embroidery Patterns

The Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery machine is digitally programmed with 125 different embroidery designs to help you create beautiful designs on your fabrics.

If you're a professional seamstress, or this is a full-time hoppy you like to indulge your time in, the Innovis M280D will be the perfect asset- it has everything you need to explore the world of embroidery without having to spend too much time fiddling around with dangerous embroidery needles, and irksome loose loops- simply program the Innovis M280D and you're good to go.

Programmed Character Motifs

One of the best things about the Innovis M280D is that it comes with 45 different pattern designs featuring iconic Disney characters! This is great for those who take on stitching as a hobby or to design clothes and bedding for their children- they'll absolutely love it!

Alternatively, if you're a professional seamstress, this will also be really useful for you- you can grow your client base by offering designs that look cleaner and are more applicable to a wider range of customers. For example, you can extend your clientele towards mothers who are looking to buy something with a more authentic, personal touch for their children.

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="3"]

181 Different Stitches

The Innovis M280D offers a vast array of 181 different sewing stitches- so you can have a pretty entertaining time trying these all out on fabrics.

One of the best things about having a wide range of stitch styles to choose from is that it allows you to achieve different effects on your garments and projects. For example, you can create different types of pleats and fabric closures with many different stitch styles.

Clear LCD Display

This computerised sewing machine has a beautiful, clean, and crisp LCD display which upgrades the standard sewing station completely- it looks extremely aesthetic and it increases the perceived value of the product so much- rightfully!

The LCD display is the main access point between you and the functions of the sewing machine- you can select between motifs, embroidery, and stitch styles. There is a lot of exploring to do- so this is great for hobbyists, as well as professional seamstresses. We do not recommend this machine for beginners.

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="4"]

USB Port Support

As visible on the LCD screen, the USB port selection option allows you to access a USB flash drive connected to the sewing machine. We love this feature, as it isn't something you see often and it really helps you extend the functionality of your product.

Brother PE Design Software

The Brother Innovis M280D computerised sewing machine is compatible for usage with the Brother Original PE Design Software.

The software enables a host of great new functions including photo stitching, ScanNCut technology, more quilting functionalities (such as fill patterns, echo quilting, stippling), hundreds of new fonts and downloadable designs, a create-your-own design feature, as well as more for other Brother sewing machines!

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="5"]

Extendable Embroidery Area

The standard embroidery area supported by the M280D is 10x10 centimetres (hoop included). This can, however, be extended if you use an additional embroidery hoop.

Embroidery hoops can be purchased from most homeware, department, and art stores such as Hobbycraft, Atkinson's, John Lewis, and more.

What Could be Better

While the Innovis M280D is a heck of a showstopper when it comes to computerised sewing machines, let alone sewing machines in general, there are some tweaks that could really make this product perfect.

For starters, the price is a real hesitation factor for most people- who don't sew professionally at least. Spending around a grand for a sewing machine is quite a stretch.

It would also be better if there were other characters that we could program to be used, as some people may not be a fan of Disney. Marvel's cool too. We aren't complaining though- built-in Disney motifs sound great to us!

[amazon fields="B075N6R9YH" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="6"]

Specifications

BrandBrother
ModelInnovis M280D
Dimensions*39 x 30 cm
Weight12.8 Kg
FunctionsSewing, Embroidery, Quilting
*length x width

Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine


The Product Below May Be Currently Unavailable,

Our recommended alternative is The Janome Memory Craft 550E Embroidery Machine!

Recommended Alternative
Janome Memory Craft 550E Embroidery Machine
  • FULL COLOUR SCREEN
  • EMBROIDERY EDITOR
  • 5 LED LIGHTS
  • AUTOMATIC THREAD CUTTER
  • BUILT IN MEMORY 4 MB

2) Janome Memory Craft 500E (Embroidery Machine Only)

[amazon fields="B017PNI8CQ" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="1"]

Second on our list of the best computerised sewing machines is the Janome Memory Craft 500. On our site TopSewingMachine, we have spoken numerous times about Janome and their products. Once again, they have produced a spectacular piece of equipment designed with the latest technological flair.

The Memory Craft 500E is another option on the pricier end of the scope, but it also features unbeatable ease of use, a beautiful, large LCD informative display, and many other excellent features.

Be aware that this is an embroidery machine, and cannot perform general stitching tasks.

What We Love

Take a look below for a summary of the best features, specialities, and advantages of the Janome Memory Craft 500E computerised embroidery machine.

[amazon fields="B017PNI8CQ" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="2"]

Specialist Embroidery Machine

As this is a product designed and optimised especially for domestic, professional-standard embroidery only, it is expected that you will receive a generous package of features and benefits that will enhance your embroidery experience.

You will benefit from a large, facilitating 200 x 280 millimetre embroidery area for you to work on- no additional hoops needed! The machine is designed as a desk, with the entire "desk" area dedicated to the sole purpose of being your embroidery station.

Clear, Informative LCD Display

This product is truly designed for advanced users and participants within embroidery craft, so we do not recommend it for people who are starting out.

Everything you need to get to know about using the machine, its features, as well as how to make it your own will be available on the LCD display.

[amazon fields="B017PNI8CQ" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="3"]

Endless Range of Designs

The Janome Memory Craft 500E has its own built-in embroidery designs, however, with the inclusion of this cutting edge technology, you can now download more designs from the endless free resources available on the internet. This is supported by the Janome Memory Craft 500E.

Powerful, Professional Editing

The Janome Memory Craft 500E provides you with a host of editing functions to make your design as personalised as possible.

Some of the editing functions programmed into this computerised embroidery machine are flipping, design and Sharpe rotation, resizing, editing, or even design combining. This will make every user's projects unique, feel free to go creative! That's what this product is designed for.

[amazon fields="B017PNI8CQ" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="4"]

Automatic Thread Switching

This computerised embroidery machine automatically alters the thread colours as the design progresses- you really don't have to do anything!

This feature was tested out by our team of professionals. We got Martha, our Textiles and Renewability graduate from the London College of Fashion, to try this product out on various types of designs. The Memory Craft 500E performs excellently on even the most complex of designs- mandalas. These are highly intricate designs with colour-changing required almost every other stitch! The product showed no signs of errors or wear, as it performed top-notch regardless of the design's complexity.

What Could be Better

The Janome Memory Craft 500E is a winner of a product- it proves to be the best in its field. It's amongst the best embroidery machines on the market, and most definitely the best computerised embroidery machine.

We do think that the price is awfully high for a Janome product. They are a highly reputed brand of quality, but these sort of prices are often expected from Brother machines.

Another thing which could make this machine better yet still fit the overall theme of its selling point would be a quilting function. A quilting function is nothing structural, rather it is a decorative feature which deserves to be places amongst embroidery.

[amazon fields="B017PNI8CQ" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="5"]

Specifications

BrandJanome
ModelMemory Craft 500E
Dimensions*68 x 56 x 55 cm
Weight17.8 Kg
FunctionsEmbroidery
*figures have been rounded up to the next centimetre

Janome Memory Craft 550E Embroidery Machine

3) Brother FS100WT Free Motion Machine

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="1"]

Next on our comprehensive guide is the Brother FS100WT Free Motion computerised sewing machine. This versatile, affordable machine is great for professionals and hobbyists.

The FS100WT arrives at a much cheaper price point in comparison to its luxury counterparts, and other products within the range. This machine is capable of embroidery, sewing, and quilting.

What We Love

Take a look below for a summary of the best features, specialities, and advantages of the Brother FS100WT Free Motion Computerised Machine.

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="2"]

Affordable

In comparison to other Brother computerised sewing machines, the FS100WT comes at a much cheaper price point of around £400-500. You still get to experience a range of 100 different stitch styles to further personalise your work and let your creativity loose.

Despite coming at a cheaper price, the Brother FS100WT has a large embroidery station, designed to give you enough space for a comfortable experience. We'll discuss this in greater depth later.

Extendable Functionality

The FS100WT is available for purchase in three models, with different dimensions and price points. The greater the dimensions, the more functionality you'll be able to extract from the product, and the more modest the dimensions, the better it is for portability and storability purposes. The options available are:

  • Brother FS60S Electronic Sewing Machine: 49 x 26.8 x 40.4 cm
  • Brother FS70WTS Sewing and Quilting Machine: 49 x 31.8 x 40.4 cm

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="3"]

Lettering Capability

The FS100WT electronic all-in-one machine features an innovative lettering functionality which allows you to create beautiful typography on your fabrics and projects.

This is an excellent inclusion for people who like to make handmade goods for birthdays and other special occasions. It adds a little more sentiment and personalisation to the project you're working on.

Easy to Use

The Brother FS100WT Free Motion machine packs a host of handy features to make your life as easy as possible when working on sewing and crafting projects.

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="4"]

Quick Threading

There's a pretty neat quick-set, drop-in as well as a drop-feed system mechanism in place for stitch threading- made as easy as possible. What started off as the most bothersome, tedious task in the world of sewing has become something so simplified- who'd have known threading a needle would be so simple?

Startup Controls

The FS100WT has speed control which allows you to manipulate the way your machine is functioning during usage. Additionally, there is a handy power, or stop/start button which allows you to take full control of the sewing machine. For those of you who are used to pedals, this will take some time to adjust to.

Stitch Adjustment

Based on the screen, you can benefit from a handy stitch selection methodology which is accessible through quick touch. This means you can totally alter your preferences on the stitch type, length and width with one simple tap on the screen.

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="5"]

Natural Feel

There are a couple of features which contribute to the natural effect when using this sewing machine; the extra wide working space / table, and a free motion embroidery foot.

Often, it's quite a hassle when trying to create large embroidery designs on bigger pieces of fabric. The extra-large working space on this product eliminates the issue entirely.

What Could be Better

The Free Motion FS100WT is a great asset to your sewing and crafts collection. It packs great features a reasonable price- it's also a Brother machine, a brand which is renowned for high quality products.

One thing that would really make this machine better would be if the screen were either larger, or if it were a backlit display. Backlit displays are not only cleaner, clearer and crispier- they are much more readable from a distance. An alternative would be if the screen was larger in size.

It would also be great if the had a larger variety of embroidery and sewing patterns, and even more lettering styles (either paid or free downloads).

[amazon fields="B00LVS9A1U" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="6"]


Specifications

BrandBrother
ModelFree Motion FS100WT
Dimensions51.5 x 32.2 x 45.6 cm
Weight7.5 Kg
FunctionsSewing, Quilting, Embroidery

Brother FS100WT Free Motion Embroidery/Sewing and Quilting Machine


The Product Below May Be Currently Unavailable,

Our recommended alternative is The Silver Viscount 404 computerised Sewing Machine!

Recommended Alternative
Silver Viscount 404 computerised Sewing Machine
  • 404 Stitch patterns
  • 10 One-Step Button Holes
  • 2 Alphabets / Fonts
  • Computerised Model

4) Silver 9400E 341 Stitch Sewing Machine

[amazon fields="B00C26QPN6" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="1"]

Next we'll be talking about the Silver 9400E 341 sewing machine. This product has a vast collection of stitch styles, 341 to be exact (as per the name), is not dependent on a foot control system, and it has a smart memory option.

It is a much more affordable option in comparison to some others we've spoken about on this page.

What We Love

Take a look below for a summary of the best features, specialities, and advantages of the Silver 9400E Sewing machine.

Large Stitch Collection

This intelligent computerised sewing machine offers 341 different stitch style options! This is pretty great for a product based on the more affordable end of the spectrum, so you're free to personalise your projects to the max with this machine!

All of these are completely computerised, which we'll talk about later- meaning you will be able to benefit from both stitch memory and no need for a foot control.

[amazon fields="B00C26QPN6" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="2"]

Memory Storage

This sewing machine has handy memory integrated into it's motherboard, making it truly personalisable- you'll be able to make it your very own. The memory feature checks out functional and it really does save a lot of time in the long run, as quoted by our Textile's graduates Marqa and Kathy.

This product is one of the best we've seen so far in terms of providing an aspect of personalisation for our projects- we really love it.

Marqa Lucia (King's College London), Kathy Roberts (Bucks New University)

Fully Computerised

The Silver 9400E has no component left un-computerised. This machine is entirely digital, making it an excellent choice for users of all experience levels. Whether you're a total beginner to the sewing and crafts world, or you're well-versed and experienced, this sewing machine is a great choice.

You also don't need a foot control to be able to use it, which is great for people who hate the need to coordinate your work with the pedal- it can be dangerous if you're new to it all.

[amazon fields="B00C26QPN6" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="3"]

Good Variety

The Silver 9400E gives you a generous 341 different stitch styles to choose from, which is a great feature for quilting and dress-making enthusiasts. Patchwork and quilting becomes an even more enjoyable task. Additionally, this sewing machine offers 10 buttonholes with auto installation, as well as two alphabet stitches.

Most sewing machines are limited to around 100-200 stitch styles and do not offer other creative features such as alphabet stitches, so this is a neat new feature for the price you invest in your sewing machine.

Silver Viscount 404 computerised Sewing Machine

5) Uten Computerized Sewing Machine

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="1"]

First on our list of the best computerised sewing machines is the Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery machine by Brother. Brother have been repeatedly mentioned throughout our specialist site as well as through the mouths of various online crafting bloggers- they provide unmatched quality and a reputation for their products' lifespans.

The Innovis M280D sewing machine is on the more expensive end of the spectrum, but it does come with some arguably unmissable features including a vast collection of 181 different stitch designs, built-in Disney character motifs, and 125 embroidery patterns.

What We Love

Take a look below for a summary of the best features, specialities, and advantages of the Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting, and Embroidery Computerised Machine.

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="2"]

Lots of Variety in Functions

The Uten computerised sewing machines offer you a host of different functions to make your projects as personal as can be. These integrated features include:

  • 200 unique built-in stitches
  • Lettering styles included
  • Number styles included
  • 8 Buttonhole styles (one-step install!)
  • Various needle positions

The possibilities are endless with the Uten computerised sewing/quilting machine.

Optimal Convenience

The Uten computerised sewing machine is designed to be optimal in terms of convenience. There are a number of features that contribute to it's quality, including:

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="3"]

Large LCD screen: There is a bright, crisp LCD display on this Uten computerised sewing machine which features a clear blue tint in contrast to the writing on the screen. This is great for easy reading, and it is also great for night-time work on projects.

Computerised Stitch Selection: The stitch selection is also easy to access and utilise, as it is all computerised. You simply select the style you want- and voila!

Drop-Feed Motion: Like many other sewing machines, the Uten computerised sewing machine features a drop-feed mechanism for free motion style usability when sewing or quilting cloth.

Start/Stop Buttons: To make your life easier, there are simple, easy-access buttons to command quick actions. These buttons allow you to easily access the start/stop functionality of the machine, as well as reverse the stitch. This is very handy for fabric-ends and hems, where many machines would require you to stop, adjust the direction, and continue.

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="4"]

Quilt Pivoting: For easier quilt pivoting, the needle features innovative memory technology (up/down) to help make the task much easier.

Annotated Plate: The needle plate on the Uten computerised sewing machine is also annotated, marking the inches and centimetres onto it too, which is a great addition to the design.

Uten Computerized Sewing Machine Portable Electronic Quilting 200 Stitches 8 Buttonholes Large Screen Model 2685A


Mini Guide to Purchasing your Machine

There are some factors which you should consider and weigh up when deciding which computerised sewing machine (or any sewing machine for that fact) to buy. We've broken this down into a condensed, and simplified set of guidelines for you to adhere to in order to make the best, most worthwhile purchase- which is especially useful when shopping online as you lose the element of physical touch.

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="4"]

Price

Consider your budget- and what you hope to achieve with a computerised sewing machine. These machines are designed to offer ease in tasks which would otherwise require a vast amount of time and high skill.

Are you willing to pay a price that offers these extra features? If not, it may be worth skipping on the computerised sewing machines and just going for a feature-rich, high-end traditional sewing machine.

We recommend buying your machine from a trusted retailer such as Amazon, Argos, or John Lewis. Be wary of sites like EBay, as sellers can easily pass fake goods at a "reasonable and cheap" price. You should also ensure that you purchase a reputable brand's machine, rather than an unbranded one- as these are more durable, qualitative, and will save you from overall repair/replacement and maintenance costs.

Feature Richness

Make sure you take note of what features you get within the sewing machine you wish to purchase. Are these relevant to you?

For professional users, a computerised sewing machine is the obvious choice anyway, but you may want to delve a little deeper into what features other machines have to offer, such as automated embroidery. Some machines even have handy quilting options programmed, so be sure to look into these things.

We recommend going for a machine that is rich in features, as this would be making the most out of your computerised sewing machine.

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="5"]

Test Run: Success or Failure?

Always test your product- make sure it works how you want it to. If you're purchasing a product in-store, you can already get a thorough look and feel of the sewing machine, and test it out at home further. However, if you're ordering online, most sites will offer you a money-back guarantee that enables you to test the product out to see if it suits your needs.

To get a general performance overview of your sewing machine, we recommend testing out the different stitch settings, and trialling different types of fabrics with these settings. Make sure you test the button settings thoroughly too.

Once you've performed an adequate and thorough quality check, you should see whether or not you're content with the noise emission levels as well as the tidiness and quality of the stitches produced.

Size

How much space do you have to work? Take this into consideration before making a purchase. Your sewing machine needs to be compact enough to provide you with a good level of portability, but also be large enough to tackle large sewing projects and provide you with a good range of features.

Nowadays, sewing machines are designed to be as light as possible whilst being reliable and rich in features. Old sewing machines, although parade a beautiful vintage charm, are extremely heavy-duty.

[amazon fields="B07X8NQDJ8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image="6"]

What Can it Do?

Lastly, it is important to think about what you want from the sewing machine. If you're a professional, you'll need highly specialised tasks which will likely come at a higher price point. Task-specific sewing machines are designed for professionals who have specific needs from their sewing machine. These machines are often optimised for working on heavy-duty, large-scale projects.

If you prefer to sew and stitch as a hobby, or for performing home maintenance tasks, then a simpler computerised sewing machine is ideal. These will help you perform basic stitching projects with greater ease- such as garments or bedding.

Editor's Choice
Brother Innovis M280D Sewing, Quilting and Embroidery Machine
  • 125 built-in embroidery patterns, including 45 designs featuring Disney characters
  • 181 sewing stitches
  • High quality performance with compact size
  • 3.7” colour LCD touch screen
  • USB port for USB flash drive

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carole

Mum, Wife and Blogger at TopSewingMachines.uk, having excelled at textile arts in school, I soon thereafter embarked my journey as an assistant to a Fashion Designer. This fueled my passion for making clothes and soon lead me to creating Top Sewing Machines. A site where I talk sewing machines, overlockers along with tips and tricks and buyers guides.
More from this Author

SEARCH

RECENT POSTS

Top Sewing Machines

TopSewingMachines.UK is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk & Amazon.com.