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Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special Review (2023 update)
Note from Editor: This Juki HZL Exceed F600 review was originally written in 2015. It has been reviewed and revised in 2023 with updates and alternatives to the F600
A little while ago, I wrote a review of the machines in the Juki Exceed series. At the time, I actually did a hands on assessment of just one machine in the series – the HZL F400.
Now, three years later, I came across the updated Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special while visiting Stuart Sew and Vac in Jensen Beach, Florida. Since writing that first review, the Exceed series has proved to be one of the most popular sewing machine lines that Juki has produced for home use.
Juki HZL Exceed F600: Overview
The Juki HZL-F600 takes the lead in the sewing and quilting machine industry. The tool has the potential to impress you with its professional performance and user-friendly features. Why should you invest in this machine? The reason is that it comes ahead with a sturdy motor designed to sew thick materials such as denim and several quilting layers, which other machines fail to do. Furthermore, you can unleash your creative side by making the most out of 255 stitch patterns and 16 buttonholes completely automatic. And do not forget the bonus part: it offers a large working space, bright LED lighting for you to navigate the instructions, and a box feed system to guarantee precision and ease so you can continue with your complicated sewing projects.
- You can sew home decoration items, dresses, and quilts.
- A large LCD screen to simplify your sewing tasks, even if you are a beginner.
- The machine is heavy as it is exactly 21.8 lbs.
- It is expensive.
- The manual is a bit challenging to understand.
Juki HZL Exceed F600 Review: At A Glance
On the surface, all of the machines in the Juki Exceed Series look exactly the same. If you do not take time to actually read the label, you truly cannot tell one machine from another.
Each machine has a series of function buttons that give the user immediate access to start/stop; needle up/down; thread tie off and cut; variable speed control slider; numerical keypad for stitch selection; on board stitch selection guide; LED lighting, bright back-lit monochromatic LCD screen with adjustable lighting levels; and stitch memory. Each machine is also equipped with a knee lift; seam guides on both sides of the needle; on board accessory storage and ruler; free arm; drop feed; threading and bobbin winding guides; automatic needle threader; adjustable stitch length and width; reverse stitch; and a foot pedal that can also cut thread. For the most part, the differences are all ‘under the hood’. The most obvious difference between the machines reviewed three years ago and the machine that I reviewed recently is the number of stitch options available to those who purchase the HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special. Of all the machines in the Juki HZL Exceed series, the F600 is the only one with a light between the needle and column, giving the user the maximum amount of light on the work surface.
Although, the difference appears to be slight, the assembly beneath the needle is also somewhat different for the F600.
Juki HZL Exceed F600: Features
- 625 decorative and utility stitch options
- 16 One step electronic buttonholes
- 4 Alphanumeric fonts
- Direct pattern selection
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Independent bobbin winder [wind bobbins while sewing]
- Advanced thread trimmer on foot pedal
- Automatic/manual tension adjustment
- 7 Point feed dog system
- Memory – store up to 70 stitch combinations in up to 10 on board folders
- Variable needle positioning
Working on the Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special
Using the on board guides greatly simplify both the threading and bobbin winding processes. The independent bobbin winding motor makes it possible to wind bobbins while sewing, making the Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special one of the most time efficient home sewing and quilting machines on the market.
However, that benefit is somewhat offset by the fact that the drop feed control button is under the accessory case. If there as anything good about this, it is the fact that it is on the front of the machine and not the back. In my opinion, however, this is still a waste of valuable time and energy.
The on board stitch selection guide simplifies the stitch selection process and the easy to use numerical keypad is just an added benefit for fast and efficient stitch selection. When choosing a stitch, it is first necessary to use the menu button to identify the section in which the stitch is located, then dialup the stitch number on the keypad.
Once the stitch is selected, it appears on the LCD screen where adjustments to the length and width can be made before starting to sew. The quality of the stitches made on the Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special remain true to the name. Each one of the stitches I sampled were professional in every way… well formed, secure, balanced and stable. The Juki HZL Exceed F600 is extremely quiet, very well built and even when sewing at high speeds, there is no vibration whatsoever.
Other Juki HZL Exceed Machines
The Juki HL Exceed also has the F300 and F400 as more budget friendly options in their line of machines, which are listed below
The Juki HZL-F300, the flagship of JUKI's Exceed series, seamlessly merges industrial sewing prowess with user-friendly design, making it a powerful workhorse for sewing and quilting projects. The box feed mechanism ensures precise stitching through various thickness levels, delivering impeccable results. With 106 stitch patterns, 3 fonts, and 16 automatic buttonholes controlled by electronic sensors, this machine offers a versatile range for creative endeavors. Its one-touch automatic threading and pedal-controlled thread cutting streamline the sewing process, allowing projects to flow smoothly. The LED light illuminates your path, enhancing visibility. The HZL-F300 stands as a reliable companion for both experienced sewists and beginners alike.
- Allows great control while working
- Can handle large fabric with great ease
- Works a little slower
The Juki HZL-F400 is an advanced, computerized sewing machine that is perfect for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 230 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has a 1-step buttonhole function, a needle threader, and an automatic thread cutter. The machine is easy to use and operate, with a large, easy-to-read LCD display and a simple control panel. The HZL-F400 is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you to sewing classes or workshops.
Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Accessories
- 11 Snap on presser feet
- Standard
- Automatic buttonhole
- Manual buttonhole
- Zipper
- Blind stitch
- Walking foot
- Patchwork foot
- Open toe foot
- Edge sewing foot
- Quilting foot
- Smooth foot
- Lint brush
- Seam ripper
- 3 Bobbins
- 3 Spool caps (1 small/1 medium/1 large)
- Quilt guide
- Auxiliary spool pin
- Eyelet punch
- Twin needle
- Package of extra needles
- Hard carrying case
- Owner’s manual
- Knee lifter
- Extra-large extension table
8 Best Juki Sewing Machines And Sergers (2024 update)
Maintenance
| 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 |
Juki HZL Exceed F600: Summary
For the most part, Juki sewing machines designed for home use have all of the same high standards and workmanship that Juki industrial sewing machines and sergers are known for. The Exceed series is a clear example of the Juki reputation and high standards of excellence. It is well built, quiet and ergonomically sound.
In my opinion, there are only two truly effective ways to save time and energy when choosing a stitch… a numerical key pad which simply requires that the user touches a few buttons the same way you would dial a telephone number to gain access to a desired stitch option as with all of the sewing machines in the Juki HZL Exceed series, or a basic rotary dial which is found most often on mechanical sewing machines.
I clearly understand how and why some people prefer to use a stitch selection process that requires users to use a stitch menu button to identify a section where the desired stitch might be located and then toggle through the menu until the desired stitch appears on the LCD screen. The Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special is a wonderful choice for the intermediate to advanced home sewer. I hesitate to recommend it for beginners, solely because it has so many features.
There are, however, people – even some youngsters – who are capable of working on a sewing and quilting machine as advanced as this with ease. This is definitely not a sewing machine that should be used by children in elementary school. With all of its benefits and features, this is not a sewing machine that I would consider to be kid friendly at all.
The Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special is best appreciated by someone who has been sewing long enough to be able to truly appreciate the workmanship that went into making it.
The user friendly features and design are ideal for individuals who have been sewing for many decades and are in the market for an updated sewing and quilting machine.
The extra-large extension table is ideal for working on very large, cumbersome sewing projects like quilts, coats, and slipcovers. It is strong enough to handle those heavy duty jobs, yet capable of handling those delicate tasks like lingerie, dainty blouses and baby clothes with equal results. In addition, with more than 600 stitch options, there is no possibility of getting bored or tired of using the same stitch sequences and/or decorative stitches over and over.
Embellishing and monogramming sewing projects on the Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special is as simple as using the memory/sequencing function and pressing the start/stop button.
My only real complaint about this machine is the placement of the drop feed control… but then, I am one of those old line people who insists upon having every control function at my fingertips.
Having to remove the accessory case in order to get to any function control is in my opinion a design flaw. Even with this in mind, I must admit that the Juki HZL Exceed F600 Quilt & Pro Special is one of the best sewing and quilting machines I have reviewed. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending it for anyone who might be in the market for a new machine to add to their sewing room.
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.
Juki HL Exceed F600 Review
Summary
I had a chance to do a hands-on examination of the F600 Quilt & Pro Special, the top of the Juki Exceed line. This machine is truly one to be seen and experienced in order to be fully appreciated. It is solidly built, produces excellent stitches, doesn’t vibrate and is whisper quiet. Anyone looking for a new sewing and quilting machine owes it to themselves to take a very close look at this one before making a final decision as to which machine to add to their sewing room.
Other Juki Machine reviews you will like
Juki DDL 8100e Review
It’s not often that I come across a sewing machine that is so fast it makes me want to take a step back. That’s what happened when I reviewed the Juki DDL 8100e straight stitch only industrial sewing machine. This is quite probably the fastest sewing machine I have ever worked on. At more than 5000 stitches per minute, I know it’s the fastest sewing machine I have ever reviewed.
Juki HZL Exceed HZL Series Review 300, 400, 600 (2023 update)
When I reviewed the Juki HLZ Exceed series (300, 400 and 600), I was impressed by the simplicity of the machines in this line. The only difference between these three computerized machines is the number of available stitch options. All of three machines in the HLZ Exceed series offer a knee lift; a monochromatic backlit LCD display screen; an oversized workspace and sew up to 900 stitches per minute.
Juki MO-1000 Serger Review (2023 update)
When Juki decide to change its motto to “Juki is coming home”, the people in the Juki advertising department knew exactly what they were doing. The Juki MO 1000 Easy Threader is quite possibly the most user friendly serger I have ever reviewed. When you combine the ease of operation with the high quality workmanship that Juki is know for, you have a sure fire winner.
Juki MO 644D Review (2023 update)
The Juki MO 644D is possibly the most dependable, reliable serger in its price range. It is affordable and easy to use. Its features include a differential feed and adjustable stitch length and width controls as well as adjustable presser foot adjustment. While these features are available on every new serger, they stand out on the MO 644D because of its excellent stitch quality. There is no free arm, but that is a very minor inconvenience when you take into account the quality of the stitches and the great way it sews through all types and thicknesses of fabric.
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.
I have to disagree with you on the placement of the drop feed control. Almost always when I need to drop the feed dogs, I am installing the extension table, which makes accessibility of the switch immediate. Rarely would I do any work requiring dropped feed dogs without the extension table.
Thanks for your review on the Juki HZL Exceed F600. I have read many reviews on this machine and i am very impressed.. I recently visited my local sewing shop and took a look at the Brother NQ1300 and the Janome S5. I have been sewing for years and have a Bernina 530 now but in order to do free motion quilting I would have to purchase a stitch regulator for $1000 for my Bernina. I am crazy about quiting can’t wait to start free motion quilting. How does the Brother and Janome compare. To the Juki? In your opinion do you think that the Juki is my best choice for an advanced sewer/quilter? Of course the shop I visited wants me to buy a Brother or Janome from them. I have yet to try the Exceed F600 but did sew on their Stright stitch quilters machine. Your expert opinion matters. Thanks. Sdavis
I just this machine for my birthday and I am loving it. Four layers of Jean material not a problem, at all, didn’t break a needle, like my other machine. I love the features. I just got it on June 30,2016. So far no complaints what so ever.
Upon the advice of my two sisters ( both own and use this machine), I ordered and received this machine for myself.
Can I say how much I enjoy using this?! So quiet, fast and strong! And the thread cutter and needle threader work every. single. time. Love it!
Love all the features and yes, I was surprized to find the drop feed dog switch under the accessory box also. Not ideal. But very happy with the machine overall.
I just got my Juki F600 for Christmas. I have been sewing a quilt and love it. I stopped to hem some T-shirts for my brother-in-law and used the twin needle. I read the instructions and got the twin needle selection but now I want to go back to the single needle setting and haven’t been able to get the twin needle icon off and when I sew with just the single needle I cannot change the setting and it makes a knocking noise when I try to sew. What do I do to get the setting to show just the one needle?
I have had my Juki HZL 600 for several years and do many types of sewing–clothing, quilting, heirloom. I have owned and/or used many different machines including Elna, Brother, Singer, and Kenmore machines and the Juki is by far the best I have used. I also own a TL2010 quilting machine. The added bonus is that the price is right! I have the extension table on all the time and don’t find that the drop feed lever is inconvenient. I only remove the extension table to use the free arm. The machine is quiet and free of vibration no matter how fast I’m sewing.
I just purchased a Juki HZL-F600.
I would like to know if there is a way to put a space between words when I am embroidering letters?
In my custom window treatments business I often use Tex-40 thread. I think my manual said use 30. Does anyone have experience using Tex-40 with this machine?
thanks!
Really appreciate the detailed review! I just bought one of these machines for my wife and it’s pretty impressive compared to the old one. One thing I’d like to share is the drop feed control is easily accessible when using the extension table.
Thx for your reviews of the BBL Soprano and the Juki HZL F600. I am choosing between those two I believe. I like the large designs that could be used for quilting on the Soprano, can the Juki do the same?
Thank you