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Pfaff Smarter 160s Review (2023 update)
Note from the Editor: This Pfaff Smarter 160s Review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternative home sewing machines such as Janome 2212, Singer 4432, and Singer Making The Cut.
I’m one of those people who just loves to just drop in to sewing machine and fabric shops just to see what’s new. On a recent visit to Cynthia’s Fine Fabrics in Tamarac, Florida, I saw two brand new Pfaff sewing machines that hadn’t even been uncrated yet… the Pfaff Smarter 140s and 160s, and I took no time to ask if I could review them. Cynthia explained that they were the latest releases in the Smarter line from Pfaff and promised to call me to come in for a review as soon as they were unpacked. She is definitely a woman of her word. About a week later, I received that invitation.
Pfaff Smarter 160s Overview
Pfaff Smart 160 is a bestselling mechanical sewing machine that packs 23 stitching styles, one four step buttonhole, a horizontal rotary hook, a free arm, among many other features. The device comes with a solid plastic case sold with the machine for no extra cost. This model by Pfaff is durable and reliable, making it ideal for learners and the occasional home sewer.
The Pfaff 160s and 140s are identical in almost every way. The differences are that the 160s has pink accents and the accents on the 140s are lime green.
Each machine has two large dials, a stitch selection dial bearing pictures of each stitch and a stitch length adjustment dial on front along with a stitch width adjustment dial on top. There is also an easy to follow thread guide, seam guides etched onto the needle plate, a large reverse stitch button and a free arm.
What are some alternatives for Pfaff Smarter 160s?
The Janome 2212 Sewing Machine offers a seamless entry into the world of stitching for beginners. Boasting 12 built-in stitches and a four-step buttonhole, this mechanical marvel prioritizes simplicity. Its dial pattern selection and adjustable stitch width and length guarantee a user-friendly experience. Whether you're a novice exploring the art of sewing or a seasoned enthusiast, the Janome 2212's light-weight design and versatile features, such as the free arm and drop feed, make it an ideal companion for a range of projects. With manual tension control and straightforward functionality, it caters to the practical needs of those taking their first stitches.
Read a detailed review of the Janome 2212 here.
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
Experience the power of the Singer Heavy-Duty 4432 sewing machine, designed for lasting durability with its heavy-duty metal frame. This versatile machine offers 110 stitch applications, from basic to decorative, conveniently displayed on the user-friendly Stitch Selector Dial. Benefit from features like automatic one-step buttonhole, automatic needle threader, and enhanced piercing power for sewing through multiple layers. With a faster motor, it sews up to 1,100 stitches per minute, making it ideal for larger projects. Explore creativity effortlessly with the Singer 4432, equipped with top-notch features for sewing enthusiasts.
- Versatile machine with box feed for continuous fabric pressure
- Adjustable feed and pressure settings
- Can sew heavy denim and handle different fabric weights
- Good for basic sewing tasks
- Reliable for occasional sewing and repairs
- Bobbin tension is not self-adjusting
- Confusing setup instructions and bobbin threading
- May struggle with very thick leather
Read a detailed review of the Singer 4432 here.
What are the features on Pfaff Smarter 160s?
- Automatic needle threader
- On board accessories case
- Free arm
- Oversized reverse stitch button
- Bright LED lighting
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Drop in bobbin
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Adjustable needle positioning
Difference between Pfaff Smarter 160S and 140s?
Since the Pfaff Smarter 160s and 140s are almost identical, I reviewed only one – the 160s. In addition to the fact that the 160s has pink accents and the accent color on the 140s is green, there are really only two major differences between the two machines:
1. The 160s has an automatic buttonhole feature while the 140s offers a four step buttonhole only.
2. The 160s has 22 utility and decorative stitch options; the 140s has 20.
With the easy to follow thread guides, and detail graphic on board instructions as to how to wind the bobbin, a child of seven or eight could easily master threading the Pfaff Smarter 160s or 140s with minimum of guidance.
The Pfaff Smarter 140s is a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 140 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has a reverse stitch, a needle threader, and an automatic bobbin winder.
The Pfaff Smarter 140s is easy to use and has a great stitch quality. It is also a durable machine that can withstand heavy use. If you are looking for a basic, easy-to-use sewing machine with a variety of stitches, the Pfaff Smarter 140s is a great option.
Working on the Pfaff Smarter 160s
Selecting the desired stitch is just as easy. All that is required is to turn the lower dial to the position of the stitch you want.
Turn the upper colored dial to adjust the length of the stitch. If you wish to adjust the stitch width, the stitch width adjustment dial is located on top of the machine, to the right of the tension adjustment dial.
The quality of the stitches produced by the Pfaff Smarter 160s that I reviewed is acceptable, but not what I would consider great.
While the stitches are tight and sturdy, they are not as well defined as I would have preferred – especially the single strand straight stitch.
If you compare the straight stitches made on the Pfaff 160s with the straight stitches made on other machines in its class, I would say that the Pfaff 160s gets a passing grade, but not anything more.
The decorative stitches, on the other hand, were much better in terms of definition. That’s a bit ironic, I would say, since it’s normally the decorative stitches that are inferior to the utility stitches if there is any discrepancy at all.
What fabrics go on Pfaff Smarter 160s?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) |
What accessories come with Pfaff Smarter 160s?
- 5 Snap on presser feet
- Standard Presser Foot
- Clearview Foot
- Blindhem Foot
- Zipper Foot
- Buttonhole Foot
- 3 Bobbins
- Felt pad
- Screwdriver
- 2 Spool caps (1 large/1 small)
- Seam ripper & lint brush
- Edge guide
- Auxiliary spool pin
- Extra needles
- Hard cover
How to maintain Pfaff Smarter 160s?
| 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 |
Pfaff Smarter 160s Summary
Based upon performance alone, the Pfaff Smarter 160s and 140s are excellent machines for the beginner.
People who have been sewing for a very long time and those who have been sewing for just a short while, but know all of the basics of sewing machine operation and clothing construction will not be disappointed with either one of these mechanical sewing machines.
While I am not overly enthusiastic about the quality of the very basic utility stitches, my one real hesitation about these machines is not performance, but the materials used to make them.
The cover and the machine itself seem to be made with an inferior grade of plastic – the hard kind of plastic that cracks very easily.
I cannot help but wonder what would happen if the cover were dropped or if the machine were accidentally bumped or dropped.
The feel of the plastic used on the cover which doubles as a carrying case and the body of the sewing machines reminds me of the same type of plastic used to make inexpensive toys. To me, it seems hard and brittle and not at all durable or resilient.
If the material used to make these machines and the dust covers were more durable, I would not have any reservations about recommending the Pfaff Smarter 160 and140 for taking along on vacation or to the dorm room. Its delicate construction, however, negates that option as far as I’m concerned.
Should you decide that you want to add one of these new sewing machines to our sewing room inventory, I caution you to be very careful when moving it about within your home and under no circumstances do I believe you should take this one on the road.
The more you move it about, the greater the risk of damaging the carrying case or the body of the machine.
Providing you don’t move them around a lot, these are good sewing machines for teaching the art of sewing – especially if your students are children.
The large dials and easy to follow on board threading and bobbin winding guides are excellent for youngsters as well as some seniors who may be challenged by arthritis or diminishing eyesight.
In my opinion, anyone who has been sewing for any length of time would be able to appreciate the simplicity of these machines; and anyone who is just beginning to learn to sew would appreciate the fact that they are so easy to use.
The less than stellar quality of the utility stitches is not a major deterrent only because the stitches DO fit the bill in terms of what they are supposed to look like and their stability.
Over time, I have noticed that many of the newer sewing machines do not render the superior stitch quality that is reminiscent of our grandmothers’ old straight stitch only sewing machines.
In many cases, the more options and features that are available, the sacrifice of the user in terms of stitch quality and machine durability.
Perhaps I’m being overly critical. Perhaps it’s just that I expect more from a new sewing machine and when I don’t get it, I feel obligated to bring it to your attention.
On a more pleasant note… I believe the Pfaff Smarter 160s is, a viable choice for anyone who wants a stable, mechanical sewing machine.
The stitch quality is not the best, but it is still very good. Beginners, especially younger beginners, will be able to master the threading process and operation of these machines very fast, leaving them free to hone their sewing skills and perfecting their sewing technique.
Concluding my Pfaff Smarter 160s and 140s review, do not recommend these machines for anyone who does a lot of heavy duty sewing. They are far too fragile to take the punishment that they would have to undergo just because of the material they are made with.
However, if your sewing projects are primarily apparel items and accessories, and if you do not sew more than one or two days per week, you might be very happy with one of these new mechanical sewing machines.
Pfaff Smarter 160s Summary
Summary
Sure, here is a product summary for the Pfaff Smarter 160s in one single paragraph:
The Pfaff Smarter 160s is a computerized sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 160 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, an automatic thread cutter, and a free arm.
The Pfaff Smarter 160s is easy to use and has a great stitch quality. It is also a durable machine that can withstand heavy use. If you are looking for a basic, easy-to-use sewing machine with a variety of features, the Pfaff Smarter 160s is a great option.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi! I really liked your review! I just bought the Pfaff Smarter 160s. Im so new at sewing, but I definitely caught the bug hard. I have never threaded, wound a bobbin on my own, and am having trouble. The manual on this machines isn’t as detailed as I need. Would you be able to tell me how (if you remember) to lower the feed dogs? I haven’t been able to sew anything yet. I haven’t figured out either how to get the needle to pick up the bobbin thread. Thanks for your help if you can and even if not, I have enjoyed your site. best, H
Hello, Hannah –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight and WELCOME to the club of those who love to sew.
The one and only time I wound the bobbin on the Pfaff 160 was when I did this review. As I recall, I had no problems whatsoever with the process at the time. I did, however, pull the manual up on the internet. It is very important that you follow the diagram at the top of page 17 exactly. Make sure the thread goes from the spool, through the first thread guide and then clockwise around the bobbin thread guide. Your next step is to pull the end of the thread through the opening on top of the bobbin itself before placing it on the spindle and snapping it into place.
If you are still having challenges, perhaps you can ask someone you know who sews to show you. I have no doubt that when you see it done just one time, you will be able to wind your own bobbins with ease from that point on.
Enjoy your new hobby. I’m sure you will love sewing as much as I do.
Happy stitching.
One of the things NOT mentioned in the manual –takes it for granted– that once your bobbin is threaded, you must MANUALLY lower the threaded needle by turning the wheel –holding the thread end taut to the front of the machine– down into the machine bobbins space to ‘catch’ the bobbin thread and pull it back PU AND OUT thru the opening [the needle goes thru]; you will then pull both strands out to the back of the machine for a few inches/ 5-6cm or so. then you can start sewing.
Strongly object to the comments on machine durabilty, unfounded: had an injury episode in which the cramped open space during closet cleaning/reorganizing was to fully sit on the cover with some velocity! Cover was totally intact! I had removed the cover from the machine to use a smaller case for travel. Pfaff composite was totally resilient. One of the ‘features’ was that the composite closed EVERY time of the FIRST attempts –never a retry,no 2nd or 3rd tries to get it fitting correctly. Have to ask for justification? This is a framed/skeletal machine –a total metal machine with the same basic features will cost a LEAST 4x-5x times what this will cost.Think this will prove out the cost effective and then retain the trade-up value when the time comes.
Thank you for the review! I found it very helpfull, as I am in the middle of buying my first sewing machine. The 160s was recommended to me by a sewing machine store owner, but I am always suspicious of them.
Since I am a beginner, and I have seen several people mention that it is a good machine for beginners, I will go with the 160s (honestly don’t like the lime green color at all). Your review really helped me to decide. 🙂
i just purchased the Smarter 160 by Pfaff this weekend, I have yet to use it, I am not a beginner, I have sewn since high school, but I am new to this machine, I have used Singer machines in the past, looking forward to using my new machine.
I just purchased this machine and was testing the functionality and when i tried the reverse lever, it didnt work, i tried it again, and it still didnt work. i tried it the third time and a it made a loud clunk and is now stuck sewing in reverse. I am very frustrated, Do you have any suggestions or does this sound like a manufacturing error??
Hello, Maxine –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
This is definitely NOT a manufacturing error. If you have not already done so, you should take this machine back to the dealer immediately.
Happy stitching.
I decided to sew my first project on my new Pfaff 140 machine
and needed the zipper foot to put in a zipper, it’s missing , along with the spool holder, which I stole off my singer machine, not happy with the missing parts, but it does sew quite good, I am impressed with that.
i have smarter pff 140s sewing machine. i just broke auto needle thread part. now i cant thread automatically. where can i buy it online?
I bought Pfaff 140s today for my 15 year old daughter for A$89 reduced from $399 from Spotlight. A staff in the department suggested Elna 40 also special priced for $255 from $545. When I was in trouble a man was carrying it in the trolley and I asked him why he chose the Elna 40. He said he got an advice from an experienced friend. So I decided to buy it however my wife stopped me saying that your daughter may not use it much. A trouble again! I would buy it if it was for my wife however I bought one for her 20 years ago and she hasn’t used it much. I really liked Elna 40 however couldn’t justify. So I ended up buying Pfaff 140s and still thinking of the other machine until I read this review. I am now relaxed and relieved that I bought a right one for my daughter. Still keep telling myself …where else can I buy this reasonable one for the least price on earth? I hope you agree ^^
I think your comments on the durability of this product is completely unfounded!! The plastic is very durable. I bought a plastic PFAFF 26yrs ago and nothing cracking, the machine is in top shape and very durable. After 26yrs my zig zag function has broken so I will be upgrading probably to this Smarter 160s model. I tried it on denim and it was great. The stitches are very neat and the machine has lots of good power. I am not a beginner sewer but I love the mechanical sewing machines because I don’t have to sit for 30 seconds waiting….just so the software in the machine doesn’t go crazy.
Hi. I’m about to buy this machine but just wanted to confirm, is it really not good for denim and thick fabrics?
Hello Vernelle,
I read your review on the phaff 140-160 and thought I’d ask a your opinion on a choice I have to make. I have a very old sturdy husquevarna that needs some parts replaced and a good cleaning. The shop I took it into says the cost of repair is about $100 under getting a new Phaff. He thinks I’d be ahead to get a new machine, but I have a hard time believing an old “remade” would be better than a new. The motor on my old machine still sounds great.
Thanks for your time,
Clara
I just purchased a 140 in used condition it won’t hold the needle in. Is there something missing out of the clamp maybe a rubber ring as everything seems to be there. Help please.
I just bought the Pfaff 160 and find the straight stitch quality very disappointing. A cheap Semco has a nicer stitch quality look.
What is the average price on these machines? I have used on in my sewing class, and would like to buy one for myself, but I don’t know the cost. What is it usually?
Nun, Ihre Kommentare zur Haltbarkeit des Kunststoffs, sind ja doch rein spekulativ. Meine Maschine ist jetzt ca. 8 Jahre alt und hat schon einiges mitgemacht. Ich fahre mit ihr auch zum Nähkurs, wobei sie im Kofferraum auch mal umgefallen ist. Maschine und Haube sind nach wie vor völlig in Ordnung. Dicke Stoffe und Kunstleder näht sie übrigens auch. LG
I have lost the bobbin cover on my PfaffSmarter 160 and I cannot find where to order one on the computer.