Researching sewing machine prices may seem super confusing. You click on one model and it costs $100, but the next machine you look at may well cost over $1,000! If you wonder, “how much are sewing machines, anyway?”, check out this guide to understand average prices and popular models.
Beginner sewing machines cost about $150-$200, while intermediate machines can cost as much as $2,000. Specialty sewing machines such as quilting and embroidery machines often cost upwards of $1,000. Advanced sewing machines start at around $5,000 but can cost more than $20,000.
In this article, you will find out what makes sewing machines so expensive. You will discover the average price for popular beginner sewing machines. Finally, you will find tips on where to buy your next sewing machine!
Quick Navigation
- Sewing Machine Average Prices
- How Much are Sewing Machines?
- How Much Does a Singer Sewing Machine Cost?
- Brother Sewing Machine Prices
- What Should You Expect to Pay for a Juki Sewing Machine?
- What to Pay for a Bernina/Bernette Sewing Machine
- Most Expensive Sewing Machine
- Best Inexpensive Sewing Machines
- Industrial Sewing Machine Price
- How Much Should a Beginner Spend on a Sewing Machine?
- Where to Buy a Sewing Machine
- Conclusion
Sewing Machine Average Prices
| Model | Type | Comments | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singer 7258 | Affordable beginner-level computerized | Features drop-in bobbin, automatic needle threader, and 100 stitch options. | $299 |
| Singer Heavy Duty 4452 | Affordable heavy-duty mechanical | Features metal case and gears, designed to sew through denim and thick fabric. | $299 |
| Brother CS7000X | Affordable beginner-level computerized | Comes with LCD screen, 70 stitches, and a wide extension table. | $219 |
| Brother PQ1500SL | Affordable intermediate-level computerized quilting machine | Features sewing speed of 1,500 stitches per minute, longarm table, and knee-lifter device. | $799 |
| Juki DNU 1541 | Industrial lockstitch mechanical | Comes with a walking foot for sewing through thick fabrics and offers a sewing speed of 2200 stitches per minute. | $2,054 |
| Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 | Professional grade computerized quilting | Features a longarm frame with 12” throat space, speed control, automatic thread trimming, and lettering font selections. | $2,999 |
| Bernina 770 QE Plus | High-end computerized quilting machine | Has a touchscreen control panel, Bernina Stitch Regulator, dual feed controls, jumbo-sized bobbin for longer sewing time, and 74 quilting stitches. | $8,499 |
| Bernina Q20 | Luxury longarm computerized quilting/sewing machine | Features 20” throat space, digital thread tension adjustment, Bernina Stitch Regulator, touch screen control, Kick Start function to sew without the foot pedal and a sewing speed of 2200 SPM. | $20,000 |
| Pfaff Creative Icon 2 | Luxury sewing and quilting machine | Features AI technology, voice controls, wireless mySewNet connectivity, touchscreen control panel, and laser projector to show stitching design on fabric. | $21,000 |
How Much are Sewing Machines?
Sewing machines cost anywhere from under $100 to well over $1,000, depending on the brand you choose and the capabilities you want. If you want an entry-level sewing machine with basic functions, you should expect to pay an average price of $200. For a high-end machine, average prices range from $1,000 to $15,000.
Why is there such a huge disparity in the prices of sewing machines? The main reason is that sewing machines offer a wide range of different functions.
First, sewing machines come in either mechanical or computerized format. Mechanical machines use simple clockwork-style parts to direct the machine. You will use controls such as a dial or sliders to set the stitching format, stitch length, etc. These models usually cost much less and feature simpler functions.
Computerized machines offer computerized controls. On the lower end of the price range, you will find machines with buttons and an LCD or LED display screen. High-end machines will offer wireless compatibility, touch screens, or ports you can use with a flash drive. Most high-end machines also come with downloadable software or propriety online design spaces or apps to provide sewing patterns and stitches.
You can also separate sewing machines into different classes based on the specialty of the model. You can find machines designed specifically for quilting, embroidery, or working with a heavy cloth, for example.
Specialty sewing machines typically cost a lot more than regular domestic sewing machines. From most brands, computerized quilting machines with a long arm frame and free arm stitching capabilities start at about $1,000. Embroidery machines cost even more as they depend on wireless control, connection to a special app, or expensive software.
Finally, you can divide sewing machines into the more ambiguous categories of “beginner” vs “advanced.” Generally speaking, the quality of a sewing machine determines whether or not you can consider it high-end.
Quality factors of a sewing machine include:
- Its level of computerized functions.
- The level of automation.
- Sewing speed.
- The power of the motor.
- The durability of parts and precision of construction.
- Even the shape of the body.
Of course, you can also find a pretty extensive variation in price within advanced or professional-grade sewing machines. These range in price from about $2,000 for intermediate-level computerized sewing or quilting machine to well over $15,000 for many luxury or high-end sewing machines.
How Much Does a Singer Sewing Machine Cost?
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Singer SM024 | $189 | Mechanical beginner-level machine with 24 stitch options and easy selection process, front loading bobbin, and automatic threader. |
| Singer 7258 | $299 | Computerized beginner model with drop-in bobbin, automatic needle threader, and 100 stitch options. |
| Singer Heavy Duty 4452 | $299 | Heavy-duty mechanical model with metal case and gears, designed to sew through denim, leather, and thick fabric. |
| Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 | $599 | Intermediate level computerized model with LCD screen, over 1,000 stitch applications including lettering, and extension table. |
| Singer Quantum Stylist 9985 | $649 | Intermediate level computerized model with touch screen panel, over 1,000 stitch applications and memory for creating stitch sequences, and easy buttonhole. |
| Singer Quilter’s Dream 7258Q | $539 | This computerized quilting machine has an extension table, LCD screen for stitch selection, 12 presser feet, and over 200 stitching applications. |
| Singer Legacy SE300 | $1,399 | Computerizze embroidery machine with two hoop sizes, pre-loaded with 200 designs and 6 fonts. |
| Singer M1000 Mending Machine | $109 | Lightweight, small mechanical machine for simple mending tasks, with 32 stitch options. |
The average price of a Singer sewing machine falls between $150 and $500, with most beginner-level models costing around $160-$299. Singer offers beginner-level quilting machines that cost around $500. Singer does not specializes in high-end sewing machines but does offer a line of intermediate computerized models pricing at around $600 for more advanced sewers.
Singer sells a strong line-up of beginner-level sewing machines with all the features you need as a beginner or someone who sews sporadically for fun. You can expect affordable pricing for these models as well. For example, the 7258, priced under $300, comes with computerized controls and over 100 stitches to choose from!
One of the downsides to most beginner-level sewing machines is that they lack the sturdiness you need to sew through thicker materials. Because of this, Singer also sells a separate line of heavy-duty machines that come with solid metal cases and durable mechanics. These models, like the 4452, can easily stitch through jeans or a leather jacket. This mechanical model does not have all the bells and whistles of a computerized machine, but if you want to sew your own jeans, you will find the price tag of $299 quite reasonable.
The most expensive models Singer sells typically still fall well under the $1,000 mark, as this brand does not focus on advanced sewing machines. That said, you can get an affordable beginner-level quilting machine like the 7258Q for under $600, which is not a price you will find from many brands.
One of the best reasons to choose a Singer sewing machine as a beginner is that the Singer website provides all the support you might need. You can download a new sewing machine manual if you lose yours, order replacement parts or accessories, and quickly contact customer support if you run into trouble. Singer has maintained a great customer relationship reputation for more than 100 years, so you know you can trust this brand!
Brother Sewing Machine Prices
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Brother LX3817A | $103 | Beginner-level mechanical machine with 17 stitch options and manual needle threading. |
| Brother CS7000X | $219 | Intermediate-level computerized model with LCD screen, 70 stitches, and a wide extension table. |
| Brother HC1850 | $259 | Computerized model with wide extension table and 185 stitching options. |
| Brother PQ1500SL | $799 | Computerized sewing and quilting machine with 1,500 stitches per minute, longarm table, and knee-lifter device. |
| Brother Luminaire Innove-is 3Q3600D | $3,595 | Computerized, wireless compatible embroidery machine preloaded with Disney design, as well as large embroidery hoop space, touch screen controls, and 291 built-in designs. |
$250 is the average price of most beginner-level Brother sewing machines with computerized controls and a solid line-up of functions. Brother’s quilting machines price at around $500-$800. Brother also sells several high-end models, such as the Luminaire line, that have advanced features such as wireless compatibility and will cost well over $3,000.
Brother’s most popular beginner-level sewing machines are the CS line, including older models like the CS6000i and the newest CS model, the CS7000X. These models come with computerized controls and all the basic functions necessary for most home sewing. Plus, they cost around $200.
In the past decade, Brother has developed a strong line-up of computerized embroidery machines. Brother’s most expensive sewing machines are the Luminaire Innov-s line, which offers wireless compatibility and advanced embroidery features. The newest Luminaire model, the Luminaire Innove-is 3Q3600D, currently sells for about $3,500.
Founded in the 1920s, Brother is a Japanese company with a long history. You often find beginner-level Brother machines listed as the main competitors for Singer beginner-level machines. Both brands offer excellent basic sewing machines, though Brother sells several high-end machines with advanced capabilities.
What Should You Expect to Pay for a Juki Sewing Machine?
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Juki HZL-K65 | $267 | Beginner-level mechanical model with 20 stitch options and lock stitch capability. |
| Juki TL 2000qi | $749 | Mechanical sewing and quilting machine with 1,500 stitches per minute, automatic needle threader, and extension table. |
| Juki HZL-DX7 | $1,295 | Intermediate-level heavy-duty computerized sewing machine with LCD screen, free motion sew option, automatic thread trimming, 284 stitch patterns, and 4 fonts. |
| Juki DDL 8700 LockStitch | $850 | Industrial sewing machine with table mount designed for sewing through heavy material such as leather, upholstery fabric, or denim. |
| Juki Kirei HZL-NX7 | $2,999 | Computerized longarm sewing and quilting machine with 12” throat space, speed control, automatic thread trimming, and lettering font selections. |
The average price for a Juki sewing machine falls around $800. Juki sells a few economy models priced at just under $300, but the company mostly sells industrial strength or semi-professional models priced around $1,000. The Kirei line features the most expensive Juki models, typically costing about $3,000.
Unlike Singer and Brother, Juki does not sell hundreds of different models of sewing machines. Juki has a small line of economy-priced or beginner-level mechanical machines that offer dependable, simple stitching functions.
They sell a lot of industrial sewing machines, including a few designed for home use. For example, the HZL-D7 is a popular model for home sewers, even though it is technically an industrial machine because it can easily sew through heavy upholstery material.
Juki specializes in its industrial sewing machine technology, and markets many of its sewing and quilting machines as “semi-professional.” Though they offer many excellent sewing functions, one of the strongest selling points for this brand is the durability of its models because they incorporate aspects of industrial sewing machine technology, even in regular domestic models.
That said, Juki does offer several prominent high-end models, such as the exquisite Kirei line of quilting and sewing models. The Kirei models usually cost between $3,000 and $4,500, depending on the model. They feature advanced computerized quilting abilities like a pivot function, drop feed system, interchangeable straight feed system, and buttonhole sensor system.
What to Pay for a Bernina/Bernette Sewing Machine
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Bernette 05 Academy | $399 | Beginner-to-intermediate level mechanical machine with stretch and blanket stitch, adjustable sewing speed, and maximum SPM of 1100. |
| Bernette 38 | $699 | Intermediate level computerized model with LCD screen and automatic features such as double needle button, thread tie-off, and thread cutter. |
| Bernina 770 QE Plus | $8,499 | High-end computerized quilting machine with touchscreen, Bernina Stitch Regulator, dual feed controls,a jumbo-sized bobbin for longer sewing time, and 74 quilting stitches. |
| Bernina 735 | $10,000 | High-end embroidery machine with Bernina Stitch Regulator, semi-automatic threading and automatic presser foot lowering, touchscreen control panel, and embroidery module with Smart Drive Technology. |
| Bernina 880 | $16,499 | High-end embroidery and sewing machine with a 7” touchscreen, drag and drop controls, Bernina Stitch Regulator, 1,764 different stitches, automatic presser foot raising and lowering, automatic feed dogs adjustors, and free motion sewing options. |
| Bernina Q20 | $20,000 | High-end longarm quilting machine with table, featuring 20” throat space, digital thread tension adjustment, Bernina Stitch Regulator, touch screen control, Kick Start function to sew without the foot pedal, and a sewing speed of 2200 SPM. |
Bernette mechanical sewing machines have an average price of between $400 and $800. Bernina sewing machines come with advanced high-end technology and have an average price of about $10,000, with the most expensive models pricing out at over $20,000.
One important thing to know about the Bernina/Bernette company is that Bernina is an old Swiss company that expanded its repertoire to include a separate line of more beginner-friendly models called the Bernette brand in recent years. If you want a professional or highly advanced model, look at the Bernina machines. For a slightly more affordable and beginner-friendly model, look to the Bernette brand.
Honestly, the Bernette line of “beginner” models often feature more complex functions than many high-end sewing machines from other brands. For example, the Bernette 05 Academy model features a Lycra stretch stitch and a blanket stitch, as well as 30 other stitching options and adjustable stitch speed, even though it is a mechanical sewing machine!
Of course, you do see this reflected in the pricing as well. Beginner-level models from most sewing machine brands price out at about $200, but the Bernette models start at $400 and price up from there.
Bernina makes a pretty believable claim to provide the best high-end sewing machines in the world, lining up against a select handful of other brands such as Pfaff and Janome. Bernina’s incredibly advanced models include options like the B880 and Q20 that cost about $16,000 and $20,000, respectively.
Most Expensive Sewing Machine
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Bernina 880 | $16,000 | High-end embroidery and sewing machine with a 7” touchscreen, drag and drop controls, Bernina Stitch Regulator, 1,764 different stitches, automatic presser foot raising and lowering, automatic feed dogs adjustors, and free motion sewing options. |
| Bernina Q20 | $20,000 | High-end longarm quilting machine with table, featuring 20” throat space, digital thread tension adjustment, Bernina Stitch Regulator, touch screen control, Kick Start function to sew without the foot pedal, and a sewing speed of 2200 SPM. |
| Janome Continental M7 | $8,000 | Professional-grade computerized sewing machine with 7” touchscreen control, AccuSpark app, intelligent 7-piece feed dog, and bobbin monitoring sensor. |
| Husqvarna Viking Designer Epic | $15,000 | High-end computerized embroidery and sewing machine with touchscreen control, integrated dual feed technology, mySewNet Library of stitches, ribbon embroidery setting, and adjustable laser guide for freehand sewing. |
| Pfaff Creative Icon 2 | $21,000 | High-end computerized quilting and sewing machine with AI technology, voice controls, wireless mySewNet connectivity, touchscreen control panel, and laser projector to show stitching design on fabric. |
The average price for a high-end sewing machine falls around $15,000. Bernina and Pfaff compete as the two best-known luxury sewing machine companies, offering high-end models that sell for around $16,000-$20,000. Husqvarna Viking also offers premium luxury models pricing at around $15,000.
The most expensive sewing machines you will find for sale these days almost always feature highly advanced computerized functions, including artificial intelligence, voice controls, and guided laser stitching. High-end sewing machines always have many automatic control features, such as adjustable feed dogs, needle settings, and presser foot sensors that allow the machine to adjust on its own for different types of fabric.
Many high-end machines also come with various ergonomic features like knee controls or tables at varying heights for more comfortable sewing.
Of course, all luxury sewing machines will also feature precise stitching, intricately crafted parts, high sewing speeds, and powerful motors.
The top-of-the-line models featured in this section work best for professionals such as fashion designers or seamstresses. Of course, if you are a hobby sewer and you can afford to pay the price of a small car to buy a sewing machine, go for it! You get what you pay for with these feature-rich models.
Best Inexpensive Sewing Machines
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Singer Start 1304 | $119 | Mechanical beginner model with 6 stitches and a compact and lightweight frame. |
| Singer 7258 | $299 | Computerized beginner model with drop-in bobbin, automatic needle threader, and 100 stitch options. |
| Brother LX3817A | $103 | Beginner-level mechanical machine with 17 stitch options and manual needle threading. |
| Brother CS7000X | $219 | Intermediate-level computerized model with LCD screen, 70 stitches, and a wide extension table. |
| Janome Basic | $70 | Compact, lightweight sewing machine with 11 stitches and a reverse button. |
| Elna Elnita EC30 | $349 | Computerized sewing machine with 30 stitches, LED screen, and four-piece feed dog system. |
| Bernette 05 Academy | $399 | Beginner-to-intermediate level mechanical machine with stretch and blanket stitch, adjustable sewing speed, and maximum SPM of 1100. |
The best inexpensive sewing machines for beginners have an average price of about $150. Inexpensive mechanical sewing machines cost around $100, while inexpensive computerized models cost between $200-$300 on average. Sewing machine brands known for selling reliable, inexpensive sewing machines include Singer, Brother, and Janome.
When you price out inexpensive sewing machines, you have to decide if you want a mechanical or a beginner-level computerized model. Mechanical machines usually have fewer functions but greater durability. The other advantage of a mechanical sewing machine is that it may be easier to use.
The other big question you have to answer when buying an inexpensive sewing machine is whether you want a full-size or compact, portable model. Several brands like Singer and Brother sell mini or compact models with limited functionality, perfect for mending or small sewing projects.
Is it worth buying a cheap sewing machine? This depends on what kind of sewing you plan to do. If you sew once a month as a fun hobby, a cheap sewing machine will probably provide all the features you need. If you sew every day or professionally, you will want to invest in an expensive sewing machine with more features, more automated options to save time, and greater durability.
Industrial Sewing Machine Price
| Model | Price | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Juki DDL 8700 | $999 | Heavy-duty industrial straight-stitch machine with stitching speed of 5500 stitches per minute. |
| Juki DNU 1541 | $2,054 | Industrial sewing machine with walking foot for sewing through thick fabric, with a sewing speed of 2200 stitches per minute. |
| Janome HD9 Professional | $2,000 | Professional-grade sewing machine with a stitching speed of 1600 stitches per minute, a jumbo bobbin, an automatic thread cutter, and the ability to sew through leather and canvas. |
| Singer Heavy Duty 4452 | $299 | Heavy-duty mechanical model with metal case and gears, designed to sew through denim, leather, and thick fabric. |
| Brother S-7300A | $1,000 | Industrial lockstitch sewing machine with “digi flex” digital feed control, sewing speeds of 4500 stitches per minute, and touchscreen control panel. |
The average price for an industrial sewing machine is around $1,000. Brands like Juki and Brother offer a wide range of industrial lockstitch machines priced between $1,000 and $2,000. Singer and Janome offer heavy-duty sewing machines with industrial strength intended for home use ranging in price from under $300 to as much as $2,000.
An industrial sewing machine has a powerful motor, a metal body, and super-durable parts designed to run at high speeds for hours. You can find industrial sewing machines designed for factory machines or table-top industrial machines more suitable for home use.
Besides the ability to run for hours without burning out, the other big advantage of an industrial machine is that it can sew through thick material. For this reason, some home sewers prefer to buy an industrial machine to sew upholstery fabric, denim, canvas, or leather.
Generally speaking, industrial machines make the most sense for a serious hobby sewist or a professional. This is not the type of machine a beginner sewer should invest in.
How Much Should a Beginner Spend on a Sewing Machine?
Sewing machines for beginners have an average price of about $200. Singer and Brother offer the most popular sewing machines for beginners, but most reputable sewing machine companies will feature at least a few economy models.
For example, Bernina sells some of the most expensive sewing machines in the world, but the company also offers its Bernette brand more affordable beginner sewer machines.
Key things to look for in a sewing machine for a beginner include a simple design, quality craftsmanship, and strong customer support.
As a new sewer, you should also consider any special features you may want in your sewing machine. For example, if you want to sew custom embroidery designs onto gifts, you will want to look at computerized embroidery machines with a starting price of around $800.
Do you want to sew quilts? In this case, you will want to get a longarm machine with special quilting features such as free motion stitching. Beginning quilting machines will cost several hundred dollars, though.
On the other hand, if you want a tiny mending machine on hand for occasional use, you can find a beginner sewing machine for $100 or less.
Where to Buy a Sewing Machine
You can buy a sewing machine from online sellers like Amazon, specific brands such as Singer or Brother, or sewing machine dealerships.
Generally speaking, you can easily find affordable sewing machines for sale on Amazon, eBay, or Walmartcom. This includes many Singer, Brother, Juki, and Janome models.
How much are the sewing machines at Walmart? This depends on the make and model of the machine you want. You will usually find similar pricing on Amazon and at Walmart for beginner-level sewing machines.
However, you typically have to go through a dealer to purchase a high-end sewing machine. Companies like Bernina and Pfaff provide links to find a local dealer on the company website. These companies do not sell the machines directly to you. In fact, they do not even list prices!
If you want to buy a beginner-level or intermediate-level sewing machine, you will probably find it easiest to compare prices on Amazon. For a high-end sewing machine, try visiting a local dealer to learn more about individual models and pricing.
Conclusion
Sewing machine prices range from $100 to over $20,000, depending on the make and model of the machine. Beginner-level sewing machines from popular brands like Singer and Brother have an average price of about $200. Specialty quilting or embroidery machines often cost more than $1,000.
High-end or luxury sewing machines sold by companies like Bernina and Pfaff often cost more than $15,000. These machines have automated features, digital touch screen controls, and high stitching speeds. Industrial sewing machines often cost around $1,000 and can sew through heavy fabrics.
What kind of sewing machine do you plan to buy? What brands do you like best? Leave a comment below to let us know!