If The Great British Sewing Bee has left you inspired, and you’ve now caught the stitching bug and are ready to start creating your own projects, the first step is to invest in a brand-new sewing machine.
Picking the perfect model can feel overwhelming. There are hundreds of machines available, each boasting a dizzying array of creative features, functions, and accessories. But that’s where I come in. With nearly 20 years of experience as a sewing writer, editor, and project designer, I’ve tested countless machines. From putting beginner-friendly models through their paces to exploring the advanced features of top-of-the-range machines, I know exactly what to look for and what really makes a difference at the sewing table.
I’d first recommend considering what you want from it and how you’ll be using it. Do you want to create your own handmade wardrobe, or are quilts more your style? Perhaps you want to make cushions and other home accessories – or maybe you want something to help you mend and alter existing outfits.
For absolute beginners, ease of use is vital – so look for intuitive controls, clear instructions, and simple setup, as well as handy extras like a start/stop button, automatic needle threading, or a one-touch thread cutter. Some higher-end models even include LCD screens and built-in video tutorials to help get you started. More advanced sewists will want to look for features, such as decorative stitches, embroidery functions, and quilting options that can take your projects to the next level.
Durability also matters: a sturdy, well-made machine from a trusted brand is more likely to last, and the Sewing Machine Trade Association can help you find reputable independent dealers in your area. I’ve put together this guide to provide an honest and practical view of the machines that are worth your investment.
The best sewing machines for 2025 are:
How I tested
To test the durability and versatility of these machines, I trialled each one for several hours, using them across a wide variety of different project ideas, fabrics, and thread combos. Where available, I also tested the extra features such as embroidery stitches and quilting tables, though not every model offered these options. I considered performance, ease of use, comfort and control, and overall value. I also trialled machines across a wide range of price points, avoiding the very top end of the market – these are generally aimed at industrial users or highly experienced sewists and aren’t as relevant for the average home sewist. You can read a detailed view of my testing criteria at the end of this guide.
Brother innov-is NV1850Q sewing machine
Best: Sewing machine overall
Stitch options: 232, including five lettering styles
Buttonhole styles: 10
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Free motion open toe quilting foot, free motion echo quilting foot, free motion quilting foot, walking foot, ¼” quilting foot (with guide), quilting guide, stitch guide foot, adjustable zipper/piping foot, non-stick foot, open toe foot, zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, overcasting foot, blind stitch foot, zipper foot, monogramming foot, button fitting foot, grid sheet set, accessory bag, seam ripper, needle set, four bobbins, cleaning brush, four spool caps, spool net, knee lift, thread spool insert, wide table, hard case, foot control
Why we love it
- Great range of features at a mid-range price point
- Lots of accessories to choose from
Take note
- Doesn’t offer standalone embroidery, unlike some other similar machines
The Brother innov-is NV1850Q sewing machine was an absolute breeze to use, which is why it takes the top spot. With a wide range of accessories included and an easy-to-use digital display, it sailed through a wide range of projects, taking on quilts, garments, and home accessories without a single issue.
It features a generous 210mm (8.25in) workspace and comes supplied with a handy quilting table, which makes the often tricky task of handling large-scale quilts remarkably straightforward. It features a range of built-in time-saving functions, including a lockstitch button, one-touch needle threading, a drop-in bobbin, and a handy knee lift – meaning I could lift and raise the foot hands-free.
I had a lot of fun experimenting with the machine’s 232 built-in stitches and accessories, and the lettering styles were a nice bonus – even if I’m not sure I’d use them all that often. The machine ran flawlessly throughout all my tests, and everything I created came out perfectly finished. I was really impressed with just how much machine you get at this mid-range price, and I’d be happy to rely on it as my main sewing companion.
Buy now £1499.00, Amazon.co.uk
Singer M2105 sewing machine
Best: Budget sewing machine
Stitch options: Eight
Buttonhole styles: One
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Feed cover plate, four feet, needles, bobbins, seam ripper, brush, seam quilting guide, oil, screwdriver, electronic foot control
Why we love it
- A range of beginner-friendly features at a low price
- The mechanical build is sturdy and reliable
Take note
- The lack of extra features might make this a bad match for more experienced stitchers
If you're new to sewing and looking for a reliable, budget-friendly machine to get you started, the Singer M2105 is a good option. Weighing just 6.5kg, this machine is lightweight and portable, making it perfect for small spaces or taking to classes. It offers eight built-in stitches, as well as a handy four-step buttonhole.
The M2105 is ideal for beginners. It features a simple front-loading bobbin system and a small range of included accessories that allow for basic makes. I tried it with a variety of different fabrics, and the mechanical build chugged through them all without any issues – though I think it would be a struggle to make large-scale quilts on such a small machine.
If you’re just starting out and don’t want to stretch the purse strings, this handy little model will be the perfect fit. However, more advanced stitchers may be better off investing a little more to move to the next level – just like our next machine.
Buy now £122.50, Amazon.co.uk
Brother innov-is A65
Best: Sewing machine for beginners
Stitch options: 60
Buttonhole styles: 6
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Zigzag foot, monogramming foot, overcasting foot, zipper foot, blind stitch foot, button fitting foot, buttonhole foot, needle set, twin needle, four bobbins, seam ripper, cleaning brush, eyelet punch, disc-shaped screwdriver, two screwdrivers, extra spool pin, three spool caps, spool net, bobbin case, foot controller, accessory bag, hard case
Why we love it
- Offers a lot to beginners and mid-range makers
- Easy to operate
Take note
- As you advance you might outgrow this machine
While the really low-budget beginner models do have their place, if you want to build your skillset over time, Brother’s innov-is A65 is probably a better fit. At £499, this machine is still towards the lower end of the market price-wise, but it packs plenty of features, allowing you to take on a much wider selection of projects as you learn.
Just like the Singer M2105 above, the A65 weighs just 6.5kg and comes supplied with a hard case, meaning you’ll feel safe taking it to classes and workshops. The digital display and button stitch selection are easy to understand, and the range of feet included lends itself to lots of experimentation. I tried the A65 out across a range of different fabrics, and it didn’t stumble over any of them, so I’m confident that beginners won’t run into any issues with this machine by their side. Whether you want to start making your own clothes or have dreams of stitching handmade quilts, the A65 can certainly help you get there.
Buy now £489.00, Amazon.co.uk
Bernina B335 sewing machine
Best: Sewing machine for workshops
Stitch options: 625
Buttonhole styles: 9
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Reverse pattern foot, overlock foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, blindstitch foot, open embroidery foot, slide-on table, oil, needles, height compensation tool, foam pad, three spool caps, power cable, accessory bag, thread set, brush, seam ripper, five bobbins, foot control
Why we love it
- Small and compact, making it easy to travel with
- Lots of features in a well-presented package
Take note
- Shorter arm may make bulky projects difficult to manage
Opening the box of the Bernina B335 was a real treat. The machine was perfectly packaged with a hand-signed quality seal, plenty of well-presented accessories, and a welcoming note from the company – making it feel like opening a gift, rather than unboxing a gadget.
The B335 is small but mighty, and built to fit into even the smallest sewing nooks. This makes it a perfect choice for hobby sewists, as well as those travelling to workshops or other events. While this is generally a positive, the reduced-size sewing arm (it measures just 160mm to the right of the needle) means it’s not the best option for making bulkier projects. However, a free accessory table was included in the box, which does extend the general working area.
Despite its small stature, this machine held up well to my testing and didn’t run into any snags or issues. I loved the digital screen and stitch selection, and, in general, it was fun to use and easy to adjust.
I was also impressed by the number of functions and stitches included. If you’re looking for a portable sewing companion with plenty of features, this is the one to go for.
Buy now £995.00, Amazon.co.uk
Juki HZL-DX7 sewing machine
Best: Sewing machines for dress making
Stitch options: 287
Buttonhole styles: 16
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: 12 presser feet, eyelet punch, knee lift lever, foot controller, wide table, hard case, bobbin, needle set, twin needle, quilting guide, auxiliary spool, screwdriver, seam ripper, cleaning brush, spool cap, power cord, and support DVD
Why we love it
- Industrial, reliable build
- Floating foot function allows for perfectly seams even on bulky fabrics
Take note
- Absolute beginners might feel a bit lost
I’ve reviewed Juki’s HZL-DX7 before, and it was my overall favourite in last year’s buyer’s guide. While it didn’t quite grab the number one spot this time, this reliable model is still among my top picks – and it’s particularly good for dressmaking.
Juki is a world leader in industrial sewing machines, and it draws on its expertise when designing models for the domestic stitcher, too. The DX7 is a reliable, high-performing machine that comes with a good range of accessories, making it a wise choice not only for garment making but quilting and homewares.
The machine’s built-in features made light work of a range of different projects, including quilts and thicker fabrics. The turn dials made it quick and easy to change stitch settings on the fly, and other time-saving features, including an automatic thread cutter, needle threader, start/stop button, and the one-touch lock stitch, all of which took some of the faff out of complicated makes.
The floating function was handy when working on thicker fabrics – it raises the foot slightly, allowing it to glide over bulky waddings and layers of material without puckering or snagging.
Absolute beginners might feel slightly overwhelmed by this machine’s industrial design, and will benefit from sitting down with a cup of tea and reading through the manual before setting it up – though I recommend that for any new machine, of course.
Buy now £1689.00, Amazon.co.uk
Britannia T190 sewing machine
Best: Sewing machine for improvers
Stitch options: 190
Buttonhole styles: 9
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Five presser feet, hard cover, spool cap, spool pin felt, spool pin, three bobbins, cleaning brush, seam ripper, two screwdrivers, needle set, foot controller, power cord
Why we love it
- Industrial build in a domestic machine
- Good price point for the level of functionality provided
Take note
- Stumbled when faced with thicker thread
Britannia’s T190 sewing machine is a great mid-range model that offers a wide range of features at an affordable price point. I’ve used the model in the past, so I was happy to give it another round of testing and compare it to some newer models.
As before, it took on almost everything I threw at it with ease. It did, however, struggle when loaded with a thicker thread – the mechanism snarled up, and I had to take the needle plate off to remove a tangle from inside the bobbin case. Aside from this mishap, it consistently produced neat results.
Much like the Juki HZL-DX7 sewing machine, the Britannia T190 sewing machine features elements of industrial models, including a powerful motor, heavy-duty build, and a superior grip feed system. This all comes together to make the T190 feel like a reliable, substantial machine – making it the ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their skills and learn new techniques.
Buy now £689.00, Franklinsgroup.com
Bernina B570QE sewing machine
Best: Sewing machine for quilting
Stitch options: 642
Buttonhole styles: 11
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Seven presser feet, soft cover, three spool caps, five bobbins and a bobbin case, two foam pads, seam ripper, height compensation tool, needle pack, screwdriver, cleaning brush, power cable, programmable foot control, Bernina Stitch Regulator, Bernina Free Hand System (FHS), extension table, and quilting guide
Why we love it
- Huge array of built-in quilting features
- Colourful digital screen is easy to use
Take note
- Beginners might find it overly complicated to set up
The Bernina B570 QE (quilter’s edition) was my top pick for quilters last year – and it still holds that crown this year.
Just like the other Bernina models I trialled, this machine came beautifully packaged with a huge array of accessories and handy extras in the box – including a handy magnetic accessory holder that connects to the back of the machine when not in use. These tools offer an upgraded experience and mean that the B570QE is ready to take on quilts of any size, as well as other garments, homewares, and more.
A generous free arm and hover function made working through bulky layers a breeze, and Bernina’s stitch regulator system – which now comes as standard – was a real bonus. It automatically adjusts your stitch length to suit the project at hand for consistent results, regardless of your speed or the thickness of your project.
The only drawback I found was needing to pause and check the manual a few times during the setup process, as it isn’t quite as intuitive as some of the other models I tested. That said, I see this more as a reflection of the level of detail and advanced functionality built into the machine, rather than a real negative. I said it before, and I’ll say it again – if you’re serious about quilting, the B570QE might just be your dream match.
Buy now £2495.00, Sewingmachinesuk.co.uk
Bernette B35 sewing machine
Best: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitch options: 23
Buttonhole styles: One
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Four bobbins, seam ripper, two screwdrivers, needle assortment, zigzag foot, hemmer foot, zipper foot, satin stitch foot, button-sew-on foot, blindstitch foot, buttonhole foot with slide, foot control
Why we love it
- Easy to understand, no-nonsense machine
- Comes with seven different presser feet included in the box
Take note
- If you want to build your skills you might feel frustrated in time
While fancy digital machines packed with bells and whistles are great, there’s something to be said for keeping things simple. If you prefer a more low-key sewing experience, a mechanical machine might be more your style.
Bernette’s B35 features a solid construction with easy-to-understand dial controls. It features 23 stitches (including one buttonhole) and comes with seven presser feet, allowing for a wider range of applications.
As mechanical machines go, I did enjoy using this model – it feels well-made with a sturdy, heavy body and a slightly larger sewing space. It was easy to switch between different stitches and worked well across a variety of different materials, including thicker felts – and at just £249, it’s definitely a worthy contender for those who prefer to keep things low-tech.
Buy now £209.00, Amazon.co.uk
Brother HF37 sewing machine
Best: Heavy-duty sewing machine
Stitch options: 37
Buttonhole styles: One
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Zigzag foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, button sewing foot, blind stitch foot, non-stick foot, extra spool pin, two spool caps, four bobbins, twin needle, needle set, disc-shaped screwdriver, seam ripper, cleaning brush, foot control, hard case, project book
Why we love it
- Reliable machine with a sturdy build
- Non-stick presser foot is ideal for leather and vinyl
Take note
- It doesn’t offer much creatively outside the basic core stitches
I’ve trialled several heavy-duty machines in the past and have always been impressed by their fast stitching speeds, hard-wearing motors, and the ability to handle any project I throw at them with ease. Brother’s HF37 machine isn’t one I’d come across before, but with 37 stitches to choose from (slightly more than the usual offered by similar models), I was intrigued.
With a proven track record, this machine is popular among professional makers and hobbyists alike. I tested it across a wide variety of materials, including faux leather and thick layered denim, and it never snagged, stumbled, or slowed down – which is a testament to the thought and planning that went into building this sturdy little machine. In fact, the included non-stick foot really made working with these tricky fabrics enjoyable, and took away a lot of the usual problems.
Its metal body and heavy build cut down on noise and vibration (a valid concern when you’re working through bulky materials), and I sailed through my makes quickly and efficiently. However, just like some of the other budget-friendly picks, the HF37 doesn’t come with many advanced functions – so if you’re in the market for a machine that can do it all, a sturdy mid-range option may be a better investment.
Buy now £275.00, Amazon.co.uk
Brother CX1 Celeste sewing machine
Best: High-end sewing machine
Stitch options: 760
Buttonhole styles: 16
Sewing machine type: Computerised
Accessories included: Advanced monogramming foot, overcasting foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, blind stitch foot, button fitting foot, bobbins, seam ripper, eyelet punch, screwdrivers, spool caps
Why we love it
- Incredible machine that packs a punch
- Large-scale LCD screen makes stitching easier than ever
Take note
- Doesn’t offer embroidery functionality
If you’ve got a bigger budget to play with and want the crème de la crème of sewing machines, Brother’s CX1 Celeste is the best high-end sewing machine.
As soon as this machine was delivered, I knew I was in for a treat – the box it came in was twice the size of any of the other models I trialled, and it had substantial weight to it. While unpacking it, I was blown away by the size of the CX1’s colour LCD screen – at a whopping 257mm (10.1in) across, it almost felt like I had my own personal TV to guide me as I worked.
The Celeste is generously sized all over, with an extra-large 285mm (11.25in) sewing arm and an additional quilting table included in the box. It’s packed with a dizzying array of high-tech features, including a laser sewing guideline, Brother’s intelligent stitch regulator, and automatic fabric thickness detection. This all came together to elevate my sewing experience to another level – taking the stress and guesswork out of my projects and allowing me to focus on the joy of making, instead. I’m a big fan of free-motion embroidery, and the Celeste made it much easier than usual, which was a nice bonus.
I experienced a couple of broken needles as I worked, but that may have been due to the amount of time I’d spent putting the Celeste through its paces, and not an indication of build quality. The only other negative is that it doesn’t offer embroidery – if you want that functionality, you’ll need to purchase a separate machine, such as its sister model, the CX1E (£3,599). Costing more than £4,000, there are other machines at a similar price point that combine the two – but they might not offer the same elevated sewing experience as the CX1 does.
Buy now £4299.00, Sewingmachines.co.uk
Juki TL2300 sumato
Best: Sewing machine for a straight stitch
Stitch options: One
Buttonhole styles: None
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Standard presser foot, hemming foot, zipper foot, smooth foot, throat plate for thin fabric, case, extension table, foot control, power cable, screwdriver, needles, cleaning brush, four bobbins, oiler, spool cap, and knee lifter
Why we love it
- Takes on any fabric with ease
- Feels substantial
Take note
- If you want lots of functions, this isn’t the machine for you
This heavy-duty single-stitch machine came close to taking the top spot, with its only drawback being its limited range of functions. But what it lacks in zigzag and decorative stitches, it more than makes up for it with raw power and rock-solid reliability.
From the moment I unboxed the Juki TL2300 sumato, I was impressed. Its solid metal body and heavy weight are designed to reduce vibration, giving it a sturdy, reliable feel instantly. I knew this machine was built for handling heavy-duty fabrics such as leather, denim, and canvas, so I put it to the test by using it to create a handbag. I was more than impressed with the speed and ease it sailed through, even multiple layers of thick, tough material – it never snagged, slowed, or had any issues at all, no matter how bulky the layers. I was also impressed with its top speed of 1,500 stitches per minute – and the built-in foot pedal thread cutter was a fun extra feature, too.
Just like the Juki HZL-DX7, the sumato has a float function, meaning it can glide easily over bulky waddings and seams – making it a good match for quilts. It also comes supplied with a throat plate and extension table designed to be used with thinner fabrics – so whatever you’re making, the sumato can be set up to suit.
The only real downside to this machine is its lack of other functions – it doesn’t offer buttonholes or decorative stitches, and the mechanical build might feel clunky to some. For me, however, it’s a firm favourite and a made a welcome addition to my sewing room set-up.
Buy now £1695.00, Jukiuk.com
Babylock enspire BLE1EX sewing machine
Best: Beginner's overlocker machine
Stitch options: 11
Buttonhole styles: None
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Multi-purpose foot, tweezers, needles, spare needle screws, spare cutters, screwdriver, soft brush
Why we love it
- JetAir threading system takes all the stress out of threading your machine
- Smaller and lighter than other standard overlockers
Take note
- As an overlocker, the enspire can’t be used as a regular machine
Babylock is renowned for its overlocker machines, and the enspire BLE1EX is the smallest of its range, weighing in at just 7.5kg. It also features the brand’s JetAir threading system, which takes the stress out of the arduous task of threading the machine – something that can often be so complicated it puts newcomers off trying an overlocker at all.
When unboxing the enspire, I was impressed at just how compact it was – I’m used to larger overlockers that are overly heavy, so the potential portability of this model was a definite plus. Then, discovering that I didn’t have to battle with threading the machine manually was music to my ears. The JetAir threading system uses air to guide the looper threads through the machine for you, so it’s ready to use in an instant.
As with most overlockers, the enspire does a small number of things very well – with 11 different stitches to choose from, including two, three, and four thread overlocks, a flatlock, picot edging, blanket edging, and a rolled hem. If you’re looking for a machine that can be used for lots of functions, an overlocker probably isn’t for you – but if you’re looking to add an additional tool to upgrade your set-up, this little machine might be a great fit.
Buy now £885.00, Amazon.co.uk
Bernette B68 airlock sewing machine
Best: Overlocker/coverstitch combo
Stitch options: 31
Buttonhole: None
Sewing machine type: Mechanical
Accessories included: Standard overlock/coverstitch combo foot, knife cover, coverstitch insert, coverstitch insert for slide-on table, slide-on table, freearm cover, knee lifter, spool stand with needle pad, decorative thread guide, Bernina CS lock tool, Bernina needle set, Bernina tweezers
Why we love it
- Airlock system takes the stress out of threading
- Coverlock function adds an extra tool to your professional sewing set-up
Take note
- As with the Enspire above, it isn’t a full substitute for a regular sewing machine
The Bernette B68 is another special addition to my list – it might not be for everyone, but it makes an exciting machine for those looking to take their sewing room set-up to a professional level. Just like the enspire (above), this combo coverstitch/overlocker machine includes an air threading system to make set-up easier, alongside a variety of other useful features.
Coverstitch is mostly used on athletic wear and other stretchy garments, so if you’re looking to make a lot of leggings or other workout gear, it’ll be a good fit for you. The B68 was easy to set up (thanks to that handy air threader and a colour-coded guide) and I was impressed with the array of functions it provided. Most overlockers only offer a handful of stitches, but this one had a whopping 31 different options to choose from – including overlock, coverstitch, chainstitch, and various other combos. The larger working area and a handy knee lifter also made the job more comfortable, which was an added bonus.
Buy now £1395.00, Franknutt.co.uk
Your questions on sewing machines answered
What is the best sewing machine?
After putting all these machines to the test, I found Brother’s NV1850QE to be the best sewing machine. It offered plenty of functionality at a mid-range price and handled every project I created with ease. For beginners on a budget, Singer’s M2105 comes in under £200 and is still packed with useful features, while Brother’s Innovis A65 is a great option if you want something a bit more adventurous. Experienced sewists might consider adding an overlocker, such as Babylock’s Enspire BLE1EX, to their sewing room set-up – especially if it features an air threader to simplify set-up. And for those with a bigger budget, Brother’s CX1 Celeste is a true showstopper – it might not be for beginners, but it delivers serious performance.
How I tested and chose the best sewing machines
With nearly 20 years of experience as a sewing writer, I’ve tested countless machines. For this guide, I considered the following factors when testing:
Which sewing machine is best for home use?
All of the machines included in our round-up are suitable for beginners and can be used from the comfort of your own home. If you’re short on storage space, you might want to pass on the chunkier machines and opt for a more compact design.
Or perhaps you don’t plan on storing it away at all and want a sewing machine that’s also an eye-catching piece to keep on display, in which case the retro design of the John Lewis machine might be right up your alley.
Can you use a heavy-duty sewing machine for normal sewing?
Yes, it can handle basically any type of material.
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
IndyBest is The Independent’s expert-driven shopping section. We extensively test every product we feature to bring you unbiased reviews based on real-world testing, and we only recommend products that pass our rigorous tests.
Sophie Tenant is a craft expert with nearly 20 years of experience in the sewing industry. From designing and making patterns to trialling new machines for hours at a time, she knows exactly what makes a model suitable for beginners, hobbyists, or more advanced sewists. With her background in both professional sewing and consumer reviews, Sophie cuts through the jargon to help you find the right machine without wasting money on the wrong one.
Get the chores done and dusted without barely lifting a finger with the best robot vacuum cleaners
