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Brother NX 650Q Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Brother NX 650Q review was originally written in 2013 and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since this product is now discontinued, we have added similar alternatives such as Brother CP100X, Janome 4120QDC, and Janome 3160QDC.
Although it was introduced several years ago, I had an opportunity to review the Brother NX 650Q sewing and quilting machine at the Ace Sewing and Vacuum Center in Pompano Beach, Florida.
Brother NX 650Q Overview
The Brother NX 650Q is a versatile sewing and quilting machine designed for intermediate to advanced sewers. It features 294 built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and quilting stitches, as well as 10 buttonhole styles. The machine also includes an automatic needle threader and a quick-set bobbin system, making it easy and convenient to start sewing.
The NX 650Q has an adjustable stitch length and width, and an adjustable presser foot pressure, allowing users to customize their sewing according to their specific fabric and project needs. It also includes advanced features such as an automatic needle threading system, a programmable needle up/down function, and a pivot function for smooth turns. Additionally, the machine features a large LCD display, which makes it easy to navigate through the machine's various functions and settings.
Other useful features of the Brother NX 650Q include a drop feed function for free-motion quilting and sewing, a built-in thread cutter, and a knee lift for hands-free fabric handling. The machine also includes a generous quilting table, making it easier to handle larger quilting projects.
This product is now discontinued. We recommend trying out the alternatives that we have added in this post.
When you first see the Brother NX 650Q, you can’t help but notice the blue see through top that covers the thread and bobbin winding mechanism, the wide extension table and the large silver stitch selection buttons on the front panel.
There are also easy to follow threading guides and function buttons as well as a see through bobbin case, a drop in bobbin and a needle plate with clearly defined seam guides.
What are the features on Brother NX 650Q?
The Brother NX 650Q comes with loads of standard features:
- 429 utility and decorative stitches
- 10 one-step buttonholes
- 3 alphanumeric fonts
- 110 utility stitch functions
- 14 needle positions
- Free arm
- Manual drop feed
- Knee lifter and manual presser foot lifter
- Super bright LED lighting
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Automatic upper tension adjustment
- LCD touchscreen
- Variable speed slider
- Thread cutter
- Needle up/down
Working on the Brother NX 650Q
Winding the bobbin and threading the Brother NX 650Q is very user friendly. All that is necessary is to simply follow the easy to understand guides on the machine itself.
The stitch selection process is just as easy as winding the bobbin and threading the Brother NX 650Q. The first step is to press the menu key then select the stitch function you want – utility, buttonhole, decorative or alphanumeric font.
The basic, most frequently used utility stitches are etched on the buttons. To access other choices, refer to the quick reference guide and dial up the number assigned to the stitch you want and press OK.
You can use the directional arrows to adjust the stitch length and width. If you want to save a particular stitch or series of stitches, you can save them by depressing the button with the picture of a little pocket on it and then press OK.
Although it was not available on the machine I reviewed, the Brother NX 650Q comes with an easy to use stitch selection guide that is mounted on top of the machine.
The stitch quality is much better than I expected. The stitches are well-defined, tight and secure.
The accessories are stored inside a box on the large workspace that can be removed to expose the free arm. The extension table is an optional accessory which, in my opinion is necessary only if you plan on working with lots of very large sewing and/or quilting projects.
What are some alternatives for Brother NX 650Q?
We have mentioned in this review that the Brother NX 650Q is a now discontinued model. Here are some alternatives we recommend instead.
The Brother CP100X is a computerized sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. It features 100 built-in stitches, including eight styles of one-step buttonholes, and a bright LCD display that shows stitch information and allows you to easily select and adjust your stitches. The machine also includes an automatic needle threading system, which makes threading the needle effortless, and a drop feed for free-motion quilting. The CP100X comes with a variety of convenient features, such as a start/stop button for sewing without a foot pedal, a speed control slider, and a built-in thread cutter. It also includes a range of sewing feet, including a quilting foot, monogramming foot, and zipper foot, among others, to help you tackle a range of sewing tasks. Additionally, the machine includes an extra-wide table for larger projects, a bright LED work area, and a jam-resistant Quick-Set drop-in top bobbin. The CP100X is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take to sewing classes or move around the house. It also includes a hard protective case for storage and transport. Overall, the Brother CP100X is a versatile and reliable machine that offers a range of features to help you complete a variety of sewing projects with ease.
The Janome 4120QDC is a top-notch computerized sewing machine that is both incredibly sturdy and light enough to move about with ease. It is a powerful sewing machine that can handle a wide range of fabrics. Despite the fact that this machine may appear to be pricey, less expensive alternatives just cannot match its level of excellence.
Threading is simple with the jam-proof bobbin, which also keeps your stitches from straying over the edge of your project. In the meantime, you can effortlessly regulate the stitching pace, make small adjustments, and pivot on corners thanks to the user-friendly control panel and LCD screen.
The machine will remain functional as your skill set expands with 120 stitch options and 7 buttonhole options. A protective case that comes with the device protects it from dust and other substances that can harm it. An instructional DVD is also included so you can learn more about the machine.
The Janome 4120QDC was created to be an all-purpose machine in general. It can complete practically any task you give it. It boasts a tonne of features that make it one of the most adaptable and powerful sewing machines available.
The Janome 3160QDC is a fully functional, top-of-the-line machine that provides all of the benefits at an affordable price. It was created keeping a quilter's needs in mind.
The Superior Plus Feed System from the company Janome has optimized box feeding that makes it possible to feed any fabric steadily and consistently.
Six 1-step buttonholes are available among the 60 built-in stitches. This full-sized machine only weighs 12 pounds, which makes it convenient to transport to workshops and guild meetings.
Sewing is made simple with the time-saving features of this machine, like the memorized up/down needle, the single-handed needle threader, and the lock stitch button.
Which fabrics work on the Brother NX 650Q?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Brother NX 650Q?
When it comes to accessories, the Brother NX 650Q stands heads above lots of other sewing and quilting machines in its class. No wonder it’s still in demand after being on the market for so long.
- 13 snap on presser feet
- Buttonhole foot
- Overcasting foot
- Adjustable zipper foot
- Zigzag foot
- Button fitting foot
- Monogramming foot
- Blindstitch foot
- Walking foot
- Quilting foot
- Stitch guide foot
- Non-stick foot
- Open toe foot
- ¼” quilting foot
- Side cutter
- Seam ripper
- Extra bobbins
- 4 bobbins with bobbin clips
- Needles [including twin needle]
- Eyelet punch
- Lint brush
- Screwdrivers (3-large, small, disc)
- Spool caps (large, medium, small)
- Extra spool pin
- Spool net
- Grid sheet set
- Stitch pattern plate
- Hard carrying case
- Accessories bag
- Owner’s manual
Optional accessories include:
- ¼” quilting foot with a guide
- Detachable extension table
How to maintain the Brother NX 650Q?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Brother NX 650Q Overview
I don’t believe Brother is still manufacturing the NX 650Q, but if you ask me, they should. It is possibly the best sewing and quilting machine they have ever produced. It’s user-friendly and affordable, and the quality is impeccable.
I have seen and reviewed a lot of Brother sewing machines, and I can say without equivocation that the NX 650Q is a winner. It’s uncomplicated enough for a beginner to master and versatile enough to keep the seasoned home sewer happy. I hesitate to recommend it for use by children.
Although the stitch selection process is user friendly, I’m not convinced that children younger than 12 years of age would be comfortable with it. When it comes to quality, workmanship, and affordability, you might not be able to do better. I found this one at a store that sells brand new sewing machines and sergers.
The interesting thing is when I inquired about the MSRP, the NX 650Q wasn’t listed on any of their Brother price sheets. This leads me to believe that it has been discontinued and probably replaced by the NX 450, which has an MSRP of $1249.95. An internet search came up with sales prices ranging from just under $500 to a little less than $700.
If you are in the market for a brand new – or nearly new – sewing and quilting machine that is no longer being manufactured, I recommend you give the Brother NX 650Q some serious consideration. If you are lucky enough to find one for sale by a private individual or on the internet, you can download a copy of the owner’s manual in case one doesn’t come with your machine on the Brother website.
Even though it’s loaded with great features and comes with tons of great accessories, it is new enough for you to be able to get anything and everything else you could possibly imagine to go with it. In addition, the Brother NX 650Q was just introduced within the last few years; therefore, when it’s time for servicing, you don’t have to worry about the technician not being familiar with your machine.
Brother NX 650Q Review
Summary
The Brother NX-650Q is a computerized sewing machine that is designed for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 60 built-in stitches, 7 one-step buttonholes, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin, speed control slider, LED light, backlit LCD screen, free arm, built-in extension table, AcuFeed Flex Feed System, quilting capabilities, automatic thread tension, needle up/down button, thread cutter, and 7 sewing feet. It is easy to use and can handle a variety of fabrics and projects. It is a great value for the price, but it is not as portable as some other machines.
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Happy Stitching.
I like my 650 a lot. It sews nicely and I find that it keeps a straight line on the fabric much more easily than my vintage sewing machines. The two problems I have right now are probably “user” related and can hopefully be repaired. My auto-threader is out of whack and my buttonhole maker tends to get stuck and create a rats nest of thread after a couple of buttonholes.
This is a very user friendly machine. I hope my next machine (embroidery) will be a Brother also.
I forgot to add that I believe the NX-650Q has been replaced by the Laura Ashley NX-800. Last I knew, MSRP was $1500 but you should be able to get it for 20-30% off that ($1050-1200).
Hi, Susan –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Does your problem with buttonholes happen with all types of fabric? If not, the problem might be related to the tension setting. If it happens every time you try to make a buttonhole regardless of the fabric type, you may want to check your settings, including the presser foot pressure.
If all else fails, consult your dealer or a sewing machine repair professional.
Happy Stitching
I have a chance to buy a used NX 650 (was almost never used)for $900. I was thinking of offering 700$. What do you think?
What is the difference between 650Q and 650?
If you are interested in this machine try Amazon.com Laura Ashley sewing machine and there are a # of sites that are advertising the clearance price as $700 +. I would buy one but just recently upgraded my machine. Happy sewing!
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