Trying to start sewing but don’t want to spend a fortune in a new sewing machine? Then here you’ll find the top 5 best sewing machines under 200. We hope it will be an ideal choice for you.
We know how difficult it is to find a quality sewing machine that gets the job done but doesn’t empty your bank account. So we decided to help those in that situation find a quality model under $200 that felt like a steal.
We’re reviewing some of the highest-quality yet affordable sewing machines in the market, and then we’re going to explain how you can pick the ideal one from that bunch.
Are you ready to learn more about cheap sewing machines? Then keep reading!
After hours of looking through pages about the products and considering reviews from real-life users, we managed to get tons of info about 5 next-level sewing machines that are cheap but still worth getting. Here’s what we found about them:
1. Varmax Mini Sewing Machine (Best Overall)
This model sets quality and portability levels higher, so even the most demanding user can find exciting features to enjoy about it.
One of the most enticing things is the extra-compact design. This machine measures only 8 inches in length and 6.8 inches in height. That’s enough to fit even in purses – so you can bring it around wherever you go.
There’s a lot more to enjoy, though. For example, the extension table adds a few extra inches to the machine, so you can work comfortably even in such a small design.
Another exciting feature is the two-speed control. You can change the stitching speed and make any design you want with little effort. Along with the double-threading system, you can finish any job without having to re-thread consistently.
The machine is straightforward to use and even comes with a thread cutter for extra convenience. And when you add the built-in lamp, working in dark areas will be a piece of cake.
Lastly, you get the chance to use it via an adapter or batteries. And if you prefer the foot pedal over a button or vice-versa – then you can pick accordingly.
There’s nothing about this machine to hate – especially for such a fantastic cost.
Why We Like it?
- Extra-tiny 6-inch design
- Handy double-threading
- Excellent two-speed system
- Powered by adapters or batteries
Key Features Checklist (Specifications)
- Size: Mini-size & Compact (6.9 x 3.5 x 8.6 Inches)
- Built-in lamp, thread cutter and cuff slot
- Large Extension Table
- Stitches: Classic Straight-Line stitch
- Two-Speed Control
- Power Supply: Batteries or Adapter
Our Verdict
Want the best budget sewing machine? Then you’ll find no better choice than the Varmax Mini.
2. Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
This machine has everything you could need in a quality model: an automatic threading system, 27 stitching modes, a built-in light, and more.
You can literally make any type of stitch you want while still getting exceptional accuracy and beauty on each one. Considering you get a blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative, zig-zag, straight, and even buttonhole stitches – this machine will help you make any stitch you want.
This matches well with the drop-in bobbin. You get the chance to enjoy a highly convenient threading system that automates the whole process. Even in the most challenging jobs, the machine will perform as smoothly as you can imagine, preventing jams and ensuring a fast operation.
Still, you get the chance to enjoy a free-arm design so you can use it however you prefer for any project you want.
Last but not least, you get a LED light system. It will help you shine your work area and ensure more accuracy and convenience. Even in dark places, this machine will perform amazingly well.
All of that fits inside a 15-inch design. So you get the extra touch of portability for extra convenience.
Why We Like it?
- Up to 27 stitches available
- Practical drop-in bobbin
- A smooth automatic thread system
- Comfy & portable 15-inch design
Key Features Checklist (Specifications)
- Weight: 12.6 pounds
- Size: 15.3″ x 5.9″ x 12.1″
- Stitches: 27 Unique Built-in Stitches
- Speed: 800 Stitches per Minute
- Needle Threading System: Automatic
- Drop-in Top Bobbin
Our Verdict
If we had to pick the best sewing machine under $300, we wouldn’t hesitate a single second to pick the Brother XM2701.
3. SINGER 2250 Tradition Sewing Machine Review – Best Heavy Duty Model
If are looking for the best heavy duty sewing machine under $200, then SINGER 2250 will be the perfect choice for you. The Tradition series from Singer takes sewing to a whole new level without costing an eye of your face. It all starts with a small yet powerful mechanism that can stitch over any material – making it a reliable machine.
This goes well with the 10 stitching options. You can even make a 4-step buttonhole if necessary, so you get the chance to work on almost any project without drawbacks.
Another excellent feature to consider is the adjustable stitch length and width. No matter the stitching you want to use, this machine makes them all possible.
You can also add the adjustable tension, foot pressure, and even the extra-high foot lifter presser. It doesn’t matter what project you want to work on – this machine doesn’t let you down.
It is barely 15 inches long and 12 inches in height, so it is decently small. And when you consider it weighs only 12.6 pounds, it becomes one of the most portables in the list.
As a heavy-duty model for a low price, the Singer 2250 offers everything you need and more.
Why We Like it?
- Up to 10 stitching patterns
- Handy stitch length & width changes
- Useful tension & pressure adjustments
- Decently small & light for the cost
- Heavy Duty Metal Frame
- Reverse (Lever)
- Built-In Thread Cutter
Key Features Checklist (Specifications)
- Weight: 12.4 Pounds
- Size: 15 x 6.2 x 12 Inches
- Stitches: 10 Built-in Stitches
- Bobbin Type: Regular Vertical
- Warranty: 90 Day / 2 Year / 24 Year
Our Verdict
Apart from bringing small and highly practical models, we also wanted to bring the cheapest heavy-duty sewing machine. And in that case, there’s no better model than the Singer 2250.
4. SINGER 2277 Tradition Sewing Machine Review – Best for Beginners
The first thing you’ll find is the automatic threading system. It automates the whole process, so you don’t have to waste single second threading. As a beginner, this will come like a life-saving feature.
Another factor you’ll love is the adjustable length & width. Having the chance to change everything by hand makes it a piece of cake – even if you’re just starting using this type of machine.
And to add even more convenience, you can adjust it to 97 different stitching applications, 23 built-in stitches, and an easy-to-adjust selector. There’s no limit to what you can sew with this model.
Still, you can find an arm with on-board storage, so you can reach difficult areas on whatever you’re sewing. And with the storage, you can save up any accessory close for easy reach.
And if all that wasn’t enough, the machine comes with a heavy-duty metal frame that withstands years of use without problems. So you won’t have to worry about almost anything.
The machine is 15 inches long and 12 inches high, like other models from the Tradition series. That’s enough to ensure excellent portability.
Why We Like it?
- Up to 23 stitch patterns
- Easy-to-use controls & features
- Heavy-duty build for durability
- Convenient automatic threaded
- Automatic Needle Threader
Our Verdict
Coming back with a Singer model, we now find the best sewing machine for beginners. That would be the Singer 2277 – a super practical, small, and utterly well-made machine.
5. BreadPedal Handheld Sewing Machine Review – Best for Portability
You get the chance to start sewing any kind of clothing item or accessory without using electricity. Still, you can sew over leather, silk, and even jean fabric.
This comes on a pretty small design. With only 9 inches in length and weighing barely 7.7 ounces – this sewing machine makes it possible to start sewing anywhere you go – including on-the-go (trains and vehicles).
The best of all is that you can achieve next-level sewing skills as a beginner, or put your hard-earned skills as an expert. You won’t have a single issue getting the most out of this fantastic piece.
To power up the machine you only need 4 AA batteries. You get the accessories to start working right away (bobbins, spindle, needles, threader, and a manual).
There’s simply nothing to ask from this sewing machine. If you’re a beginner or an expert and want to take your sewing to any place you go – then you won’t find anything like this.
And you still get all of that for a fantastic cost – so you won’t have to spend a single dime more than needed.
Why We Like it?
- Extremely portable design
- Decently powerful for its size
- Boasts all necessary accessories
- Incredibly easy to use
Key Features Checklist (Specifications)
- Weight: 7.7 Ounces
- Size: 8.3 x 2.8 x 1.6
- Material: Plastics
- Power: 4x AA Batteries
- 2x Extra Bobbins With Thread
- 1x Extra Needle
Our Verdict
To finish our list of reviews, we had to bring the BreadPedal Handheld model. Among starter sewing machines, nothing compares to this one.
Guides for Choosing The Best Sewing Machines Under 200
If you are truly interested in the cheapest sewing machines under 200, then you need to need to know what you’re looking for. And for that, there’s no better way than to learn what factors make sewing machines worth it. Here are some of them:
Ergonomics & Controls
First and foremost, be sure the machine is comfortable and easy to use. While this is not the most crucial factor, it will help you get the most out of the machine.
If you’re looking for a cheap model, then you’re likely a beginner. So an ergonomic and effortless design is your best bet.
For that, there are various things to think about. One would be the selectors and/or knobs available. Be sure they’re straightforward and easy to figure out – no need to be all confusing if you only need to sew.
Similarly, the machine should have enough space for you to work cozily. Otherwise, you may either harm yourself or messing up the sewing.
And lastly, consider extra features that make the machine easier to use, such as free arms, LED lights, automatic threading, and similar ones.
Weight & Size
When it comes to affordable sewing machines, nothing is more useful than a portable design. And for that, you’ll have to consider the size and weight of the product.
Here, we recommend taking a direct look into how long and high the machine is. We usually recommend models that are no more than 15 inches long and 12 inches high for the best experience. Anything higher than that is not sufficiently portable for the cost.
And sure enough, you also want something light. In that case, 13 pounds should be the maximum weight for such a price point. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a bulky and difficult to transport model.
Stitches
The best cheap sewing machine is not only easy to transport and easy to use – but it also allows all kinds of adjustments. And sure enough, stitching types are the most useful of all.
If you can vary the type of stitch to make on the fabric, then that’s a huge advantage. Especially if you’re a beginner who doesn’t know how to handle the material manually, then you’ll love this type of feature.
Speed & Length Adjustments
Want to make the most precise stitches for your project? Then you’ll want to change the speed, length, and width of the stitches.
Having this type of adjustment increases the overall practicality of the machine and ensures a way better sewing experience overall. Especially for seasoned tailors who want custom stitching, this type of feature will come like a charm.
Pressure & Tension
From the presser foot pressure to the thread tension and other related features – you’d love having the chance to adjust them all. Even cheap sewing machines like these should be able to change all of that.
So don’t hesitate to get a model with these features. This is not a vital thing to have, but will undoubtedly make the experience better.
Bobbins
Last but not least, you’ll want to consider the type of bobbin the machine offers. The general idea here is to pick an automatic bobbin, and that feeds automatically. Also, it should allow smooth operation and make installation a piece of cake. In low-cost models, a practical bobbin mechanism is worth a lot.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
So, did you learn something with our reviews and buying guide? You probably did. But you also have a few questions about affordable sewing machines that need answering. Here we have some of them:
When it comes to brand in the sewing industry, going for popularity is always the best option. And of course, no other brands are more popular than Brother or Singer. The quality they offer is outstanding, to the point of taking up to 70% of the whole sewing-machine market.
Yes, even the cheapest sewing machine may have an advantage that the largest models don’t. For example, a handheld model at less than 100 may not be ideal for making different types of stitches. But it will add extra portability that larger and more expensive models don’t offer. So they’re totally worth it.
It depends on your needs. We would recommend inexpensive sewing machines for people that:
1. Are starting to sew for the first time and don’t want to make a significant investment
2. Don’t have many skills and just want to improve slowly
3. Have a small budget but still want a decent model
4. Need something portable and easy to use
If your demands fit with any of these statements, then go for a cheap sewing machine without thinking twice. You won’t regret it.
While it would be a lie to say they’re as durable as their most expensive cousins, you can still say they’re still long-lasting. You can easily get 5 years of lifespan from even the cheapest sewing machine as long as you take care of it and don’t overuse it.
Final notes
So, did you learn something about cheap sewing machines? Then be sure to follow all our advice and recommendations so you can pick the ideal one for your needs. Just remember that sewing machine under $200 is not the one with the highest number of features or the smallest/largest design – but the one that meets your demands.
Be sure to pick the right sewing machine following your needs over anything else, and you shouldn’t have any problem later on. So go and pick one now!