Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
8 Best Sewing Machines under $200 in 2024
Are you new to sewing and don’t have a super fancy budget for it? That’s normal. There is actually no point in spending a fortune to buy a machine that will end up confusing you with its 137 stitch patterns. Lucky for you, all the beginner-friendly machines are mostly in this price range, and they have just enough features to get you started.
As beginners, what are you supposed to look for in a machine?
The answer is, “Not much.” Check if it is easy to use and is not overloaded with features that you will never actually need. Check reviews and ratings; that goes without saying, and that’s pretty much about it. In a different scenario, you may not be a beginner, but you still need an intermediate machine to help with minor domestic stitchwork. The same goes for that as well. Devices in this price range will mostly be mechanical sewing machines.
We’ve made a list of the most popular machines under $200 and put them in the order we like them best.
Our Top Picks for Sewing Machines under $200
Best (Mechanical) Overall: Singer Making the Cut (jump to review)
Best Computerized Sewing Machine under $200: Brother CS5055 (jump to review)
Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine under $200: Singer HD 4423 (jump to review)
Best Brother Sewing Machine under $200: Brother GX 37 (jump to review)
Best Beginner: Singer MX 60 (jump to review)
Best Basic Machine: Singer Start 1304 (jump to review)
Best Budget: Brother XM2701 (jump to review)
Overall (Runner-up): SINGER M3500 (jump to review)
Detailed Reviews of the Best Sewing Machines under $200
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
Priced under $200, the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a versatile powerhouse catering to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Boasting 60 unique built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom functions, it allows for creative embellishments. The improved needle threader ensures hassle-free threading, complemented by a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for smooth operation. The durable metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to cleaner stitching and even lines, handling diverse projects with ease. With a generous needle-to-arm workspace, users can tackle larger projects effortlessly. The CS5055, equipped with an LCD display and user-friendly features, transforms garments into personalized fashion statements, making it an ideal investment for sewing aficionados.
- Affordable
- More features than mechanical machines on this list so far
- Light-weight at around 10 lbs
- You can't order parts for this machine. You have to visit authorized repair centers
The Singer 4423 Heavy-Duty, hailed as the best value for money, caters to a diverse range of projects with its 23 built-in stitches. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned sewers, its automatic needle threader minimizes eye strain, while the high-speed capability of 1,100 stitches-per-minute ensures swift completion of tasks. The heavy-duty metal frame adds durability, allowing it to effortlessly handle thick fabrics. With a comprehensive set of accessories, this workhorse is a reliable companion for various sewing ventures.
- Blazing fast
- Compared to other Singer sewing machines, the top-load bobbin is easier to use
- Amazing sewing power for both thin and thick fabrics
- Sensitive foot pedal for beginners
- Needle threader only works when the needle is perfectly up
If you are looking for a Singer heavy duty machine, read our buying guide on the best singer heavy duty machines.
The Brother GX37 elevates the sewing experience with its user-friendly design and versatility. With 37 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative options, it caters to a spectrum of sewing projects from garment construction to applique. The machine's intuitive features, such as the automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin, simplify the stitching process. Ideal for both beginners and intermediate users, the GX37 offers a versatile free arm for various sewing and quilting tasks. The included accessories, from sewing feet to an instructional DVD, make it a comprehensive package. With Brother's enduring support, including online, live chat, or phone assistance, the GX37 is a reliable companion for all sewing enthusiasts.
- Markings to show how to thread the device
- Removable flatbed
- Barely makes any noise
- Conveniently large front dial
- Fresher friendly interface
- Plastic body makes it slightly brittle
The Singer MX60 sewing machine offers a practical solution for both beginners and enthusiasts alike. With its light-weight and portable design, it's perfect for on-the-go sewing or compact spaces. The preset stitch length and width make it exceptionally user-friendly, even for novices. Whether you're crafting garments, quilting, or simply mending, the MX60's 57 stitch applications cover a range of techniques. Effortlessly create buttonholes and enjoy the convenience of easy stitch selection. The LED lighting and compact dimensions enhance its functionality for a diverse range of sewing projects.
- Affordable
- User-Friendly
- Portable
- Efficient Buttonholes
- Durable Construction
- Limited Advanced Features
- Limited Stitch Customization
The Singer Start 1304 stands out as an ideal choice for hobbyists and beginners, offering simplicity and ease of use. With 6 basic stitches easily selected by a turn of the dial, this light-weight and portable machine makes sewing in smaller spaces or attending classes a breeze. The 57 pre-set stitch applications, along with automatic bobbin winding, provide convenience without compromising on functionality. Its Free Arm model, weighing only 7 pounds, ensures versatility and ease of storage. Backed by a 25-year limited warranty, the Singer Start 1304 comes complete with essential accessories for a seamless sewing experience.
- Easy to use
- Inexpensive
- Sometimes it does not come with a user manual
Surprisingly economical, the Brother XM2701 is a mechanical sewing machine that is both intuitive enough for novices to build confidence and skill and versatile enough to tackle more complex projects as the sewer's skills advance. With 27 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, and a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin, it caters to a range of everyday projects. The included accessories and 25-year warranty enhance its value. Surprisingly sophisticated for its price, this machine offers a wealth of features and a lifespan measured in years, while having the benefit of unlimited assistance with Brother's At Your Side support.
- Designed for a broad range of users, including beginners and advanced sewers
- 27 built-in stitches and multiple accessories cater to a variety of sewing projects
- Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin enhance ease of use
- Backed by a 25-year limited warranty and Brother's At Your Side support for technical assistance
- It offers fewer built-in stitches compared to some other models
- While great for portability, it may vibrate more during heavy-duty sewing tasks
The Singer M3500 Sewing Machine, which has 32 built-in stitches and 110 embroidery patterns, costs a few dollars more but is still less than $200. Everything else in this machine is nearly identical to the Singer Making the Cut. It has adjustable stitch length and width, generous sewing space, a reverse lever, and quite literally everything else that the former has. So if you specifically want more stitching styles and applications, and if you don't like the color blue of the 'Making the Cut' machine, you might opt for this one instead.
- Lots of features
- Affordable
- Some reports of design issues, such as bent needles
Summary: The Best Sewing Machine under $200 is
Best (Mechanical) Overall: Singer Making the Cut (jump to review)
Best Computerized Sewing Machine under $200: Brother CS5055 (jump to review)
Best Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine under $200: Singer HD 4423 (jump to review)
Best Brother Sewing Machine under $200: Brother GX 37 (jump to review)
Best Beginner: Singer MX 60 (jump to review)
Best Basic Machine: Singer Start 1304 (jump to review)
Best Budget: Brother XM2701 (jump to review)
Overall (Runner-up): SINGER M3500 (jump to review)
That wraps up the list, and we have covered all the best machines below $200. Check out our article on the Best Sewing Machines Under 0 if you want cheaper options.
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
Other posts you may like
7 Best Mechanical Sewing Machines (2024 update)
If you take an interest in the art of needles…
5 Best Sewing Machines Under $100 in 2024
Are you looking for a good sewing machine under $100?…
5 Best Sewing Machines For Auto Upholstery (2024 update)
Are you the same type of sewing fanatic as most…
Summary of Best Sewing Machines under $200
FAQs
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
