Prices are updated regularly and accurate at time of writing, but may change
Sewing machines have come a long way since the vintage Singer machines with a wheel that you turn by hand. While these early models have, rightly, become iconic in recent years, in time designs evolved and now we're here to celebrate the best of sewing tech – computerized sewing machines! Get ready for speedier, snazzier, super-charged stitching.
If you're brand new on your sewing journey, a good place to start is our sister guide to the best sewing machines for beginners, but if you're now wondering what more your machine could do for you, it's time to consider an electronic sewing machine.
Computerized sewing machines are hot stuff in the sewing world, and it's easy to see why. While they offer all the main features of manual machines, their digital display and functions allow you better speed control, and an impressive range of functions. In this article, we look at why you need one and a few of the best options on the market if you're looking to treat yourself.
What is the best electronic sewing machine?
We've compared the market and come up with this round-up of our favourite 8 digital sewing machines. We've included computerized sewing machines for different budgets and stitching levels, from some of the best brands out there...
We look at each model and compare their key features and benefits to help you choose the right one for you.
Check out our roundup of the 7 best cheap sewing machines!
Benefits of a computerized sewing machine
1. Precision and consistency
Computerized sewing machines offer precise stitching and consistent seam quality. They are programmed to execute stitches accurately, resulting in neat and even seams. Users can adjust sewing speed, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers.
2. Versatility
Computerized machines provide a wide range of stitch options, including decorative and specialty stitches, making them suitable for various sewing projects. Quilters benefit from precise stitch control and specialty quilting stitches available on computerized machines.
3. Ease of use
Intuitive touch-screen interfaces and on-screen instructions make computerized sewing machines user-friendly, even for beginners. Automated features like automatic thread cutting and needle threading save time and effort, allowing for more efficient sewing.
4. Customization
Users can customize stitch patterns, stitch length, and width to meet specific sewing needs. Some computerized machines allow users to save and edit stitch patterns, enabling personalization and creative freedom.
Still browsing? Don't miss our ultimate guide to the best sewing machines.
Best US computerized sewing machines in 2024
1. Uten Computerized Sewing Machine
Best for budget
Key specs:
- 200 stitches
- Built-in stitches include letters, numbers and 8 buttonhole styles
- Drop feed for free motion sewing and quilting
- Speedy stitching
- Needle plate in inches and centimetres
- RRP: $230.99
While it's not the best-known brand in this round up, you can't beat this Uten model for price if budget is a real stretch. As well as bringing all the basic benefits you can want from a digital machine (easy start-stop functions, needle up-down memory to help you pivot your angles and an easy drop-in top bobbin), there's lots of room to grow your skills too.
It comes with more sewing stitches than you know what to do with – including letters, numbers and 8 buttonhole styles, and drop feed for free motion sewing and quilting.
You'll find it useful that the needle plate offers both inches and centimetres if, like me, you switch between dressmaking and quilt patterns where the measurement style used varies.
Pros: Best budget option, free arm is really handy for sewing cuffs and sleeves, twin needle setting, sews at 700 stitches per minute.
Cons: Not the most reputable brand.
2. Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist computerized sewing machine
Best for embroidery
Key specs:
- 600 stitches
- 5 fonts
- Speed control
- Needle up-down memory
- 18 presser feet included
- RRP: $699.99
If you've been thinking of investing in an embroidery machine for a while now, the Singer Quantum Stylist could be the one to tempt you. It offers 5 fonts and hundreds of stitches so is hugely versatile.
Use it to sew stitches, lettering or a variation of both with a multitude of options for personalising and adjusting your stitch designs.
The needle up-down feature allows you to easily pivot your row of stitching, while it will also make light work of topstitching, quilting and appliqué, alongside your embroidery projects. It comes with (wait for it) 18 presser feet!
Sewing machine geeks among us will love the options this opens up. Have fun with feet including all the basics plus open toe foot, blind hem foot, cording foot, darning and freehand embroidery foot and adjustable bias binder foot.
Pros: 5 fonts, hundreds of stitches, and 18 presser feet make this the perfect machine for embroidery.
Cons: Slightly on the expensive side for beginners.
3. JUKI TL-2000Qi Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Best for quilting
Key specs:
- 1500 stitches per minute
- 17.8 x 8.6 x 13.8 inches
- Automatic thread cutter
- Automatic needle threader
- Speed control knob
- Work area of up to 23 inches
- 11.5kg / 25.4Lb
- RRP: $679
Quilters seeking a robust machine for handling large fabric pieces will appreciate Juki's industrial-grade model.
The setup is straightforward, requiring only the attachment of the foot pedal and power cord, with an easy bobbin installation process. This computerized sewing machine offers a variety of speeds, and the walking foot slows it right down.
Although it's at a higher price point, the Juki offers top-notch craftsmanship, performance, and convenient features like an automatic thread cutter and reverse press-down lever, making it a worthwhile investment for quilting enthusiasts.
Pros: Sturdy, industrial strength computerized sewing machine, range of speeds, handy features.
Cons: Only 1 built-in stitch, can’t do zigzag stitches.
4. Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine
Best for beginners
Key specs:
- 185 built-in stitches
- Flip chart with built-in stitches
- Detachable wide table
- LCD display
- Automatic needle threader
- Operation with or without included foot controller pedal
- Lightweight with built-in handle for portability
- Includes 8 quick-change presser feet
- RRP: $259.99
Ideal for a range of sewing tasks, quilting, and basic monogramming, the HC1850 boasts 185 diverse stitches, including 55 alphanumeric options for monogramming and 8 styles of one-step buttonholes.
Engineered for flexibility and user-friendly operation, this computerized sewing machine offers a push-button stitch selection, adjustable sewing speed, and an exceptional feed system adaptable to various fabrics.
Lightweight and portable, the HC1850 is an excellent choice for on-the-go sewing, perfect for classes.
Pros: A great machine for beginner and intermediate levels, with a huge range of stitches and handy functions for on-the-go sewing.
Cons: Might not handle thicker fabrics like the heavy duty machines in this list.
5. Janome 4120QDC-T Computerized Quilting and Sewing Machine with Quilt Kit
Best all rounder
Key specs:
- 120 built-in stitches, plus Alphabet fonts
- 7 one-step buttonholes
- Manual thread tension control
- Snap-on presser feet
- Memorized needle up/down with down as default setting
- 7-piece feed dog
- Free ArmDrop Feed
- Locking stitch button
- Twin needle guard
- Stitch pattern memory capability
- Extra high presser foot lift
- RRP: $1,199
As well as all the features you'd expert from a machine of this price and quality - such as automatic needle threader and cutter, speed control slider, and start/stop/reverse buttons - this computerized sewing machine boasts a huge array of fancy features at your disposal.
Designed for quilters, we love the extra high presser foot lift, twin needle functionality, and extendable table, but this machine covers all bases thanks to its range of functions.
Pros: Sturdy machine, large and clear LCD display, features for every job, huge range of accessories for quilting, embroidery, applique, and more.
Cons: Suitable for advanced sewists as the price makes it a commitment.
Best UK computerized sewing machines in 2024
1. Brother Innovis A60SE computerized sewing machine
Editor's choice
Key specs
- 60 stitches (including six buttonhole styles)
- Ergonomic jog dial
- Start/stop button
- Lockstitch function
- One-step needle threader
- Twin needle sewing
- Drop feed
- Hard case
- Seven presser feet and tool kit included
- RRP: £479
Trusted brand Brother have a lot to offer with the A60SE. Features include twin needle sewing and a drop feed function, plus the time-saving start/stop button, lockstitch option and one-step automatic needle threader.
Weighing in at 6.5kg and with a free hard case cover included, it’s a good choice if you often move your machine from room to room or out and about to sew with friends and family.
You'll also enjoy versatile project options with seven different presser feet and a small tool kit for daily maintenance.
Pros: Great value, hard case cover for portability, plenty of features.
Cons: Quilters may require a larger sewing space.
Read our full Brother Innovis A60SE review.
2. Singer Starlet 6660 Digital Sewing machine
Best for beginners
Key specs
- 60 built-in stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- 1-step buttonholes
- 8 presser feet included
- Extension table
- Hard cover
- RRP: £349.99
Quilters and dressmakers take note. With its impressive array of stitches, this Singer computerised sewing machine comes with automatic needle threader, plus the benefit of automatically setting the best width and length for each stitch option for you.
Choose between 13 needle positions, sew buttonholes, zips and more with this good value starter electronic machine.
It's one of the more affordable models in the digital machines market too so a good choice if you need to keep costs manageable.
Pros: Affordable, great for beginner quilters and dressmakers thanks to the broad range of stitches.
Cons: More advanced sewists may find some features lacking.
Discover more sewing machine guides
For more sewing tech guides, budding dressmakers among you might like our best overlockers round-up or if embroidery is your thing, how about these embroidery machines?
3. Janome M30A computerized sewing machine
Best for dressmaking
Key specs:
- 30 stitches
- Easy stitch selection guide
- Speed adjustment slider
- Needle up-down option for applique and sewing corners
- Light to carry with handle
- RRP: £299
If you're new to sewing or have caught the bug and now want to level up your tech, the M30A could be the one for you. Janome machines have an almost cult-like following with those who make clothes and home sewing regularly – and it's easy to see why with models like this one.
It can comfortably handle light and medium-weight fabrics and has all the stitches you need for dressmaking and home sewing, plus some decorative options to play around with.
Weighing in at just 5kg it's a lightweight machine to carry and has a handle for added portability. It comes with 4 feet (Standard, zipper, buttonhole and satin stitch) plus spare bobbins.
Pros: Reputable brand, can handle light and medium-weight fabrics, handle for portability.
Cons: For thicker fabrics like denim and leather, you may need a more heavy duty machine.
4. Brother FS70WTX computerized sewing and quilting machine
Best all rounder
Key specs:
- 70 stitches
- Quick set drop in bobbin
- Drop feed
- Slide speed control
- Extra wide table and free motion embroidery foot
- RRP: £315
There's a reason Brother are a firm favourite with sewists – they make machines like this one.
The FS70WTX is a lightweight machine with a lot to offer. It features a nifty slide speed control (you can use it to sew without needing foot control), 70 stitch options, a handy wide table for larger projects and a drop feed for free hand embroidery and quilting.
With 15 needle positions, 7 button hole options and an automatic needle threader (of course), there's a lot to love about this machine.
Pros: Great all rounder to make sewing easy and enjoyable, great for embroidery, quilting, and dressmaking.
Cons: For thicker fabrics like denim and leather, you may need a more heavy duty machine.
5. Singer 7285Q computerized sewing machine
Best for quilting
Key specs:
- 98 stitches
- Extension table
- Variable speed control
- Automatic needle threader and tension
- 4 bonus quilting feet
- RRP: £529.99
If you're a quilt maker you need a large space to sew on (extension tables are a game changer), and a tool that can help you sew quilting decorative patterns through thick layers of wadding and fabric.
This Singer computerised sewing machine has been designed with quilters in mind. Alongside an impressive range of 98 built-in stitches, including 15 quilting stitches, the automatic needle threader will save you so much time when you're starting and stopping a lot as you create quilt blocks from smaller fabric units.
Four bonus quilting feet will boost your stitching while the variable speed control is super handy. It can automatically set your tension – this is really useful when you're switching between piecing lightweight quilting cottons for your patchwork, and quilting the bulky layers of your quilt sandwich to make your finished quilt.
Pros: 15 quilting stitches, automatic needle threader, large extension table, variable speed control, and automated tension setter make this a great choice for quilters.
Cons: If quilting's not for you, you may want to invest in a machine with alternative extra features.
6. Janome 5030 computerized sewing machine
Best for growing confidence
Key specs:
- 30 stitches
- 3 options for 1-step buttonholes
- Drop feed for freehand embroidery
- Needle up/down memory
- Footless operation
- 4 feet including zipper
- Satin stitch
- RRP: £369
With enough stitches and features to keep you busy, but not enough to overwhelm newer makers the Janome 5030 will sew through a variety of fabrics, making it a great model to consider for both beginner and intermediate makers.
As with many of the machines in this round up, we love the needle up-down memory (meaning the needle stays where you want it to, handy for sewing corners), while the start-stop button makes sewing easier than ever.
You'll get a nice range of accessories included, from buttonhole foot to zipper foot plus spare bobbins and needles.
Pros: Start-stop button makes sewing a breeze, can tackle a range of fabrics, great for beginners and intermediate sewists alike.
Cons: Doesn't come with a hard cover.
What is an electronic sewing machine?
Simply put, computerised or electronic machines are powered by a computer, and you tell them what to do via a digital display panel at the front or side.
They have built-in software which allows you to control everything from the speed of sewing, tension, feed dogs. You don't have to be a pro-stitcher to use them – they're great for beginners too. Don't be put off by the initial instructions – sewing with a digital machine becomes second nature with a bit of practice and you'll soon adapt and wonder how you coped without one.
How we picked the best computerized sewing machine
Quality and performance
A machine is only as good as its parts - it can have all the bells and whistles but if it doesn't run smoothly and create even stitches, it's no good. We're looking out for precision in stitches and ensuring that the motor brings the perfect blend of power and finesse for a sewing experience that's as smooth as silk.
Features and functions
Now for the previously mentioned bells and whistles! We make sure to consider all the fancy features when selecting sewing machines, from automatic threading to a medley of stitch patterns.
Ease of use
We look out for an interface that's a breeze to navigate, setup procedures that won't leave you scratching your head, and maintenance that's as easy as pie – because sewing should be a joy, not a chore.
Price, value, and versatility
Consider Gathered your savvy shopping companion. It's not just about the price; it's about getting your money's worth. We're considering material compatibility, special features that add that extra flair, and ensuring that your investment is a well-rounded package tailored to meet your sewing dreams.
Manual vs electronic – are computerized sewing machines better than mechanical machines?
There are pros and cons to both. Some people find the digital displays and instructions can be a bit off putting at first with electronic machines, but persevere – it's worth it! Electronic machines have all sorts of extra features that will make your life easier. Many will automatically start and finish your thread for you, they can offer more precise stitches and greater control over your sewing speed.
Some machines offer a huge number of different stitch styles, and most incredibly, these machines can even do the sewing for you – sewing the pattern and stitch of your choice for you.
Finding your perfect electronic sewing machine
Computerised sewing machines are brilliant, efficient pieces of tech which will help take your sewing to the next level.
Choose a machine which suits your budget and stitching needs. All the computerised sewing machines in our round-up will make stitching garments and homewares much easier.
Take your sewing machine to the next level
If you're finding yourself taking on increasingly tricky and numerous projects, find out more about industrial sewing machines here.
