If you’re past the beginner stage, you’ve probably thought about getting a high-end sewing machine. Low-priced sewing machines have the advantage of well, being cheap. But you’ll soon notice just how limited you are when you start working on demanding sewing projects. We’ve got top 5 sewing machines to meet the needs of most advanced sewers.
Before choosing them, we carefully did as much research as possible and determined that they’re the best for any advanced sewer. They’re more expensive than the beginner-friendly ones, but investing in a slightly more expensive one should last you longer than the low-priced ones.
Sewing Machine Comparison Table for Advanced Sewers
| Sewing Machines Features | 1. Brother PQ1500SL (Best for 2023) | 2. Janome 9850 (Premium Choice) | 3. Janome 4120QDC (Value for Money) | 4. JUKI TL-2000Qi (Best for Quilting) | 5. SINGER 9985 (Best for Portability) |
| Built-in stitches | 1 | 200 | 120 | 1 | 960 |
| Stitches Per Minute | 1500 SPM | 800 SPM | 820 SPM | 1500 SPM | 960 SPM |
| LCD Display | No | Available | Available | No | Available |
| Automatic Threader | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Best Sewing Machine for Advanced Sewers: We Tested this 5 Models
These days sewing machines are equipped with many features. But you’ve probably reached that point where your machine just doesn’t cut it anymore. That said, here are our top picks for high-end sewing machines for advanced sewers:
1. Brother PQ1500SL [Best Overall]
Brother is probably of the most trusted companies in the sewing world. For that reason and the ones below, we can safely say that the Brother PQ1500SL is one of the best sewing machine for advanced sewers in the market.
This machine mainly focuses on automatization, and it shows. For example, it has an automatic thread cutter and an automatic needle threader so that you can get to work on projects instantly.
What’s more, they’ve been nice enough to include a working table so that you can work on most projects without having to get one on your own.
As for how fast this machine is, it can sew 1,500 stitches per minute, which is pretty much the standard for any high-end sewing machine.
Better yet, they have also included a highly-accurate pin feeding system. Simply put, this feature comes in handy when sewing leather and many other difficult fabrics to pierce through.
Last but not least, it has 4 feed dog positions. That way, sewers can have a much easier time getting consistent stitching. And regardless of what fabric you’re dealing with, this computerized sewing machine has you covered.
Pros
- Perfect for thick fabric
- Comes with 4 feed dog positions
- Has a large working table
- Pretty easy to operate
Cons
- The eye of the needle is too small
Our Feedback
All the valuable features included with this model make it an excellent sewing machine for those who need the very best results.
2. Janome 9850 [Premium Choice]
Focused entirely on high-end features, the Janome 9850 is one of the most expensive sewing machines, but that price tag is worth the money considering the number of features you get.
The machine features a gorgeous crystal-clear LCD display. That way, sewers can easily visualize and choose the stitch or embroidery design they want by tapping the screen.
Apart from that, this model has 200 built-in stitches and roughly 175 built-in designs so that sewers can spark their creative thinking as much as they want. Furthermore, it comes with 2 European fonts and 3 letters for monogramming.
What’s more, this model allows users to add more designs. Find a website with plenty of designs and then download them. After that, plug in your USB, transfer the new one, and you’re to go. Also, you can create your own designs by using third-party programs.
Finally, this brand also includes a free arm, which you can use to sew sleeves, trousers, and pretty much anything that has the right curve.
Pros
- Designed for intermediate to experienced sewers.
- Automatic threader
- New designs can be installed
- 200 built-in stitches
- LCD display
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy
Our Feedback
There are many more affordable machines, but few hold a candle to this premium one. With a mix of stunning results, ease of use, flexibility, you really can't go wrong with this model.
3. Janome 4120QDC [Best Value for money]
Having access to several high-end features allows sewers to work on many different projects. That said, the Janome 4120QDC offers many features for those willing to explore them, which is why it is the best machine.
This brand has always stood out given just how many stitches they include. For instance, this specific model includes 120 built-in stitches. And you can even use it for alphabet embroidery.
Better yet, this model also includes an automatic needle thread. So, you won’t have to spend unnecessary time threading the needle. Let the machine do all the work, and you’re good to go.
The biggest perk of getting this machine is that it comes with a thread cutter button. That extra feature alone is pretty essential as it saves you so much time.
Finally, this sewing machine is on a whole new level when it comes to quilting. We’ve seen what many consumers have managed to pull off with it, and the results are indeed something else.
Pros
- 120 built-in stitches
- Super easy to use
- Has a reverse stitch button
- Built-in letters
Cons
- You may get little loops in the thread
- A bit heavy (Not Travel Friendly)
Our Feedback
An advanced sewing machine like this makes it easy to expand your sewing skills while keeping it simple. Overall, we feel pretty confident about this machine. If you plan on upgrading your old one, you won't regret getting this model.
4. JUKI TL-2000Qi [Best for Quilting]
You’ve probably seen just how big sewing machines for quilting can be. But you probably don’t have that much space for it. Don’t worry, though. The JUKI TL-2000Qi is the best-advanced sewing machine for this job.
Threading this machine is super easy with the automatic needle threader. Let the machine do all the work so your eyes won’t hurt anymore.
Better yet, this model has a LED lighting built-in. This is super handy for quilting as you need a lot of precision when sewing and making stitches.
This model also has no problem sewing thick layers of fabric. It gets through them pretty quickly, which is ideal for quilting.
As for how easy it is to use, we’d give a solid 10 out of 10. For example, the machine comes with a knee lifter, so you won’t have to use your hands to lift the presser foot.
Lastly, this machine does not move around when sewing at high speeds. And it barely makes any noise when doing so.
Pros
- Pretty quiet
- Easy to use
- Has a knee lever
- Automatically threads the machine
Cons
- This machine has only one stitch
- Not Portable (Heavy)
Our Feedback
If you're someone who's trying to get into quilting, you'll absolutely love this one. It barely takes up any space, and you still get all the features you need for quilting.
5. SINGER 9985 [Best for Portability]
Are you the type who travels a lot and needs a reliable and portable sewing machine? We got you. The best machine for this kind of job is the Singer 9985.
For visualizing and choosing stitches, this machine works like a charm. It has a built-in LCD touch screen that allows sewers to manage their sewing machines easily.
Like other options we’ve covered thus far, this one is also pretty easy to thread. This is all thanks to its automatic needle threader.
By far, this is the sewing machine with the most stitches we’ve come across. It has 960 built-in stitches. And it also comes with a chart showcasing all of them. So, in that regard, you’ve got plenty of them to choose from. What’s more, you can even adjust the stitch’s width and length and visualize it in real-time.
And top it off, this model comes with 6 mathematical alphanumeric fonts and alphabetic fonts.
Pros
- Comes with an extension table
- Stitch width and length can be adjusted
- Gorgeous LCD display
- 960-built in stitches
- Portable
Cons
- Monogram alphabets are pretty lousy.
Our Feedback
Someone familiar with sewing will love this model. It is portable, easy to use, and, most importantly, works like no other machine.
Choosing a Sewing Machine for Advanced Level Sewers
Need a little bit of help choosing the right high-end sewing machine? Here are a couple of factors you should take into account when choosing a high-end model:
Automatic Needle Threader
Most modern sewing machines come with an automatic needle threader. But you should still be careful. Hand threading takes some time and can be annoying when getting your first sewing machine.
LCD Display
You’re going to be spending a lot of time on your sewing machine. So, it would be great if you could get one with a built-in LCD display. This feature alone is enough to make your sewing journey easier.
Keep in mind that it shows and allows you to scroll through the stitches instantly. Tap the screen and choose the desired one. And you can also choose the dimensions of the stitch.
Built-in Stitches
We know how easy it is to stare at those fancy machines with hundreds of built-in stitches, alphabet fonts, and so on. But in reality, you’ll probably never even come close to using half of them.
At times, it can even get daunting to look at that many.
It all boils down to choosing one that has the stitches you want. For example, it could be a trip-stretch stitch, a straight stitch, or a zig-zag stitch.
USB Port
If you’re dealing with hundreds of designs, you probably will run out of them at some point. The best way to get around that is to get a machine that allows sewers to install more.
Download the new designs, drag them into the USB folder and then plug it into the sewing machine, and you’re good to go.
Stitches Per Minute
High speed is necessary for precise results. And it saves you a lot of time. The best professional sewing machine should be able to sew 1,500-800 stitches per minute.
In your journey, you might also come across some machines that are a little bit slower. However, we wouldn’t settle for anything below 800 stitches per minute. If you can bump it a little bit, feel free to do so.
Free Arm & Extension Table
Now that you’re familiar with the essential features, you should look into getting a sewing machine with an extension table and a free arm. Both of these features will make your life so much easier when sewing sleeves and pants. In fact, your current sewing machine probably has both.
Pin Feeding System
Finally, if you’re an advanced sewer, you should get a sewing machine with a pin feeding system. Simply put, the pin feed is meant to be used for leather and thick fabrics to feed through the machine.
Are Expensive Sewing Machines Worth It?
You’ve probably noticed that high-end machines tend to have fewer features than the cheaper ones. There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s just that the expensive ones are typically made to do fewer things but better than the inexpensive sewing machines.
For example, the high-end ones tend to have LCD screens, precise stitching, knee-lifters, countless stitches, and a pin feeding system.
Low-priced machines struggle to accomplish the same results, especially anything related to thick fabric like leather and denim. These machines can also be pretty noisy, weak, and don’t have any integrated lighting system.
Sure. They are inexpensive and great for getting started, but they’re not the best for advanced users. For bigger projects and better results, you’ll need a high-end sewing machine.
Overall, you should expect the expensive sewing machine to perform better than the low-priced models.
Do You Need an Expensive Sewing Machine?
Basic sewing machines are sufficient for most home sewers. They are affordable and great for getting your feet wet as soon as possible.
But here’s the thing: the moment you start working on bigger projects, that’s when you’ll realize just how much it’s holding you back.
For example, you’ll have a hard time trying to make a quilt with a regular sewing machine, and they might vibrate in the process. A high-end one does not have this problem. They will not fall off your table and can sew leather, canvas, and many other thick fabrics. Finally, they last longer than inexpensive sewing machines.
If you’re genuinely serious about sewing, a high-end machine will make your life easier, especially if you’re trying to start up your own business from home. It’s hard to justify the upfront cost, but they’re worth every cent at the end of the day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For more information about sewing machines, check this informative section out:
Our favorite pick for the best sewing machine is the Brother PQ1500SL. This is hands down our favorite sewing machine for advanced sewers. The machine has 120 built-in stitches, plenty of alphabet fonts has an automatic thread cutter, and it’s relatively easy to use
Janome is the best brand for sewing machines. Anything made by this Japanese company should be on your top list. We’ve reviewed many of their sewing machines, and so far, we’re pretty satisfied with their build quality. They don’t cheap out on parts and always choose to prioritize quality over quantity.
Summary
Did you have fun going through our top picks for the high end sewing machine for advance sewers? We hope you managed to find the ideal one. We know the struggle to go through hundreds of models to find one that gets the job done.
There are just so many mass-produced sewing machines in questionable places that make it hard to pick one. Luckily, you always end up finding that hidden gem after going through so many. That’s what we went through after so much research.
But now we feel pretty confident about the ones we chose for this list. They are not restrictive, they are easy to use, and most importantly, the results are indeed something else.