10 Best Long Arm Quilting Machines, Reviews & Buying Guide

The long arm quilting machines have been the talk of the town for a long time. These units possess extremely fast stitching speed, automatic needle threading and thread trimming abilities, computerized input, and automatic functionality. Furthermore, modern tools also contain a large workspace with bright working conditions, thanks to the inclusion of LED lights. This article offers insights into the 10 best long arm quilting machines based on configuration, automatic features, expandability, and cost-efficiency, along with a detailed buying guide.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES	PRICE
EDITORS CHOICE	Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 7.9 x 12.6 x 19.3 inches Weight: 26.76 pounds Large LCD screen	Check on Amazon
BUDGET CHOICE	Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 16.02 x 6.69 x 12.09 inches Weight: 17.66 pounds Lightweight and portable	Check on Amazon
MOST REVIEWED	Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 19.2 x 12.5 x 15.2 inches Weight: 10.14 pounds Durable metal construction	Check on Amazon
	Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 14 x 23 x 16 inches Weight: 33.4 pounds Reverse sewing	Check on Amazon
	JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 17.8 x 8.6 x 13.8 inches Weight: 38.5 pounds Wide workspace	Check on Amazon
	JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 17.5 x 8.3 x 11.4 inches Weight: 25 pounds Time-efficient	Check on Amazon
	JUKI TL-2010Q High-Speed Sewing & Quilting Machine	Dimension: 25.5 x 18 x 17.75 inches Weight: 38.6 pounds Versatile	Check on Amazon
	Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches Weight: 18.96 pounds Free Arm & Extension Table	Check on Amazon
	Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches Weight: 15.87 pounds Enhanced versatility	Check on Amazon
	Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine	Dimension: 16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches Weight: 13 pounds Auto Needle Threader	Check on Amazon

10 Best Long Arm Quilting Machines

Possessing a maximum stitching speed of around 1500 stitches per minute, it is one of the fastest quilting machines in the market. Apart from quilting, it can also be used for other applications like sewing and embroidery, thanks to its enhanced versatility and in-built stitches.

We highly recommend it for commercial applications because of its ability to complete large projects within a limited time. In addition to this, the machine is integrated with automatic features that make it easier to operate, especially for beginners. However, beginners might have to practice a bit before they can become familiar with it due to its high speed. The advanced needle threader present in the system offers a perfect alternative to manual needle threading and significantly reduces the stress on the users’ eyes.

Another highlighting component of the unit is the jam-resistant drop-in bobbin that is extremely easy to wind and improves the overall performance to a great extent. You can always seek help from the instruction manual available with the main package in case of any confusion or problem, especially if you possess no prior experience in this regard.

Apart from the main apparatus, several additional accessories are also included in the package and include a wide table for increased space, a knee lifter, and various sewing feet. The sewing feet can be used to produce different stitches, specifically on thicker fabrics and large quilts. At the same time, the knee lifter enables you to lift the foot presser using the knee instead of hands for a more relaxed approach.

Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine is our ultimate recommendation for both commercial and domestic applications. The machine is durable in nature and is not prone to damage due to external factors. This, coupled with its lightweight and enhanced portability, makes it an excellent option for a wide range of consumers.

There are around 70 built-in embroidery, sewing, and quilting stitches embedded in the system, along with 7 auto-size buttonholes.

You can always merge different stitches and designs to create new patterns for a personalized output. Similarly, the backlit LCD screen can be used to preview and modify the pattern and stitches beforehand to prevent unwanted problems in the later stage of production. The LCD screen is durable in nature and is not prone to damage in case of accidental falls or other external factors. Furthermore, the automatic needle threader can be used for threading the needle and is a great help to all beginners as well as pros.

It relieves you from the worries of inserting the thread into the needle’s eye by yourself, which is a difficult task. Hence, protecting your eyes from getting damaged due to intense pressure and concentration. Just push the lever in the upward direction, and the threader will finish the rest of the work. Along with this, a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin also provides several advantages and provides ease of use.

You can easily wind it around and complete your tasks within time. I personally appreciate the inclusion of 10 different sewing feet into the system, which can be used for a diverse range of applications and are suitable for large quilts that might be difficult to stitch and manage otherwise. We highly encourage you to consider this as a potential option if you are looking for a cost-efficient long-arm quilting machine.

Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine feature a large workspace that provides enough room to store additional accessories in an organized manner. In addition to this, a wide table for working also offers enough space to move around large quilts without any difficulty or performance inefficiency. So, you can just sit around and stitch the quilt with utmost precision.

We assure you will not feel disappointed with this investment. Although the machine is cheaper than its competitors, it still offers a neck to neck competition to those top-notch tools.

Integrated with 185 different stitches, it can be used for a variety of applications such as embroidery, stitching, and quilting. Similarly, you can use decorative and quilting stitches to produce remarkable designs that can be stored in the system for further processing. Similar to the majority of the other related units, this version of the Brother quilting machine also contains an automatic needle threader that can be used to insert the thread into the needle’s eye. Thereby protecting your eyes from excessive damage caused by excessive straining.

Along with the automatic needle threader, a drop-in bobbin system ensures that you can easily wind the bobbin and do not require any external assistance in this regard. We also observed that the bobbin is also jam-resistant in nature and does not impact the overall performance of the machine. Our most favorite attribute is the wide table, which can be used to adjust the sit-down model.

This enables you to work on small to mid-scale projects with utmost precision and accuracy. You also do not need to worry about accessories storage as the table offers enough room to place required accessories. For beginners, a detailed instruction manual has also been included in the main package. You can consult the manual in case of any confusion or problem.

Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine contain a large LCD screen that can be used to preview the stitches before proceeding towards the practical task. You can select the desired stitch with the help of the button located on the screen, and the rest of the work will be completed by the machine itself.

The machine is integrated with automatic features that relieve you from the concerns of manually operating it and offer enhanced precision and accuracy. These quilting machines are associated with the free-stitch motion that can be difficult to manage manually, especially for beginners.

However, these problems have been eliminated by this version of the Juki quilting machine. The automatic needle threader incorporated in the system is responsible for threading the needle and can be operated using a lever. This contributes to the reduction in frustration in case of missing the threading attempt and protection of your eyes against damage due to excessive straining.

This, coupled with the jam-resistant bobbin, makes it easier to wind it and improves your overall working efficiency to a great extent. There are around 255 built-in stitches integrated into the product that can be used for producing decorative and floral patterns. Similarly, quilting stitches can be used for quilting purposes and are present in a diverse variety. To help you with the tasks, a colored LCD screen has also been included.

It can be used to preview designs and stitches before they are sewn on the fabric. You can choose the desired stitch and make amendments to a design using the LCD screen, and the rest of the task will be completed by the unit itself. We also appreciate the availability of additional accessories with the main package that can be used for a diverse range of applications. Accessories can be stored in the accessory tray to prevent them from losing or dispersing during the task.

Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is highly popular among consumers because of its outstanding attributes and durable construction. This, combined with the large working space, makes it a perfect option for large quilting projects. You can adjust the quality and then move it around easily without worrying about congestion and other related issues.

The quilting machines developed by the JUKI are renowned for their fast stitching speed, and this version is no exception. We assure you will not feel any difficulty while controlling the unit due to its high speed.

It is also one of the quietest options available in the market and is perfect for nighttime use. You would not feel any disturbance due to the ultra-quiet motor incorporated in it as well as the enhanced vibration absorption abilities. These, along with the aluminum die-cast free arm, increase the versatility of the model and make it suitable for a variety of applications, including sewing, quilting, and embroidery.

Similarly, the LED lights are also present to brighten up the workspace when there is dim light, especially at night. This prevents you from overstraining your eyes and ultimately protects your eyesight from getting damaged. In addition to this, the machine also contains an automatic needle threader that can be used to thread the needle with the help of a lever.

Thus, you can be relieved from the concerns of manually inserting the thread into the needle’s eye. Last but not least, a wide extension table is also available with the main package and provides sufficient space for completing the project. Apart from this, the table can also be used to store additional accessories and is highly admired by the majority of the consumers.

The JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine do not disappoint us in terms of performance and efficiency. The enhanced versatility of the tool makes it ideal for a wide variety of applications and quilting purposes. You can stitch the quilts of varying sizes and thicknesses with absolute precision and accuracy

The JUKI quilting machines have always been famous for their suitability for commercial purposes and, thus, are admired by the majority. There are around 106 different stitch patterns and stitches integrated into the machine that can be used depending on the requirement.

The decorative stitches can be used in combination with the quilting stitches to produce unmated artwork. We highly recommend purchasing this tool if you require more room for experimentation and exploring your creativity. Along with this, the free arm present in the system increases its versatility and can be used for a wide variety of activities, including quilting.

The free arm is also relatively easier to operate and is highly useful for beginners that do not have much experience in this regard. There are 16 buttonholes included in the machine that can be controlled using automatic electronic sensors. Thus, you can be relieved from manually completing these tasks, as in the case of traditional quilting machines. This, when combined with automatic needle threading abilities, contributes to time efficiency and best performance output.

Another significant attribute of the unit is the automatic thread trimmer. Hence, you do not need to cut the thread by yourself every time you complete one cycle. Instead, the trimmer will get it done for you. Therefore, if you are looking for the best long arm quilting machine, this version of the JUKI quilting machine is our ultimate recommendation for you.

JUKI HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine is a performance-oriented product that is specially designed for beginners. The machine is embedded with hassle-free controls and high-quality construction, which enables it to last longer than expected. Last but not least, it does require a lot of maintenance and is not prone to damage due to external factors.

We highly encourage you to purchase it for commercial purposes, especially for professional users. However, beginners might require practice in this regard as it might be difficult to control due to extremely fast speed.

Apart from the speed, another remarkable attribute of the quilting machine is the powerful jam-resistant bobbin that is easier to wind and does not get stuck while working. So, you do not need to worry about the issues in this regard. Unlike its other counterparts, this version of the Juki quilting machine contains an extremely powerful motor that can be used to stitch and sew thicker fabric like denim with utmost precision and accuracy.

So, you will not face any difficulty while sewing quilts as well. You can also use it at nighttime, thanks to the bright LED lights that are located over the workspace. You can turn on the lights when the surrounding light is dim to protect your eyes from getting damaged due to poor visibility. Thus, reducing the chances of worsening eyesight over time. The automatic needle threader is the highlight of the system and is faster than expected.

You can push the lever upward to thread the needle and do not need to perform these trivialities manually. This is especially useful while working on complex patterns with multiple colors that require thread switching time and again. We did not face any difficulty while working on long and heavy quilts due to the large workspace. The workspace provides sufficient room for storing additional accessories along with a wide area to move the quilt.

JUKI TL-2010Q High-Speed Sewing & Quilting Machine is one of the most expensive options on the list and might not be affordable by the majority of consumers. However, it is worth the investment because of its unparalleled features and high-quality construction. The durable metal body protects it from damage due to a variety of factors and makes it stand out among its competitors.

Despite its computerized system, the machine is budget-friendly and is available at a low price. The metal framework imparts durability to the product and protects it from getting damaged due to external factors.

This makes it perfect for outdoor use. Another feature that increases the suitability of the machine for outdoor activities is its lightweight, which improves its portability and enables you to carry it around without any difficulty. The needle is also fixed at a certain spot and does not move around, thereby making it easier for beginners to produce cleaner stitches. Since quilting machines generate free-motion stitches, this attribute works wonders for novice users.

Along with this, the highly specialized needle threader eliminates the need for manual threading and enables you to insert the thread into the needle by pushing the lever. So, you do not need to worry about damaging your eyesight with time. In order to protect your eyes from over-straining, LED lights are also included in the model and can be used during dim lighting conditions to brighten up the workspace.

We also found it extremely easy to wind the bobbin thanks to its jam-resistant nature. We recommend seeking guidance from the user-manual if you are faced with any difficulty while winding the bobbin or during any other task while operating the machine. We assure you will not feel disappointed at the performance and efficiency of this version of the Brother quilting machine.

Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is renowned for its large workspace, which offers enough room to work on heavy and long quilts. The extra-wide quilting field can also be used to store additional accessories that might be required during the quilting process. Lastly, the wide needle-to-arm space increases the versatility of the unit and makes it ideal for a wide variety of applications.

There are around 37 built-in stitches integrated into the machine that can be used for producing decorative patterns.

These stitches also involve quilting stitches that can be used to stitch beautiful quilts with utmost accuracy. Apart from stitches, 1 auto-size buttonhole and hemline are other significant components that add five stars to the overall performance of the unit and make it stand out among the rest of its counterparts. Additionally, the drop-in bobbin is jam-resistant in nature and can be wound easily.

This, coupled with the automatic needle threading abilities, makes it an ideal choice for beginners. You can pull the lever in the upward position to force the machine to insert the thread through the needle’s eye. Thereby completing the task earlier than expected. We also admire the inclusion of a versatile free arm into the system, which can be used to accommodate daily quilting requirements without impacting performance efficiency.

The free arm is relatively easier to use and can be operated by pros as well as beginners. It requires minimum effort on the users’ part and helps in completing large projects with enhanced precision. Apart from this, in order to protect the quilting machine from dust and damage, a dust cover is also available with the main package and can be used to protect it from external factors, especially outdoors. Thus, making it our top choice for daily use.

Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine is the quietest product available in the market and is suitable for nighttime use. Furthermore, it is incorporated with powerful LED lights that can be used to brighten the workspace in dark surroundings to prevent the eyes from over-straining.

Apart from sewing stitches, decorative stitches are also an integral component of the machine and improve its abilities to a great extent. As mentioned earlier, automatic needle threaders are of utmost significance when it comes to sewing and quilting machines, and the CS6000i version does not disappoint us in this regard.

The needle threader embedded in the unit can automatically push the thread through the needle’s eye with the help of a lever. Users need to push the lever in an upward motion to get the task done. Similarly, the drop-in bobbin can be wound easily and is jam-resistant in nature. So, you do not need to worry about putting in a lot of effort to wind the bobbin.

Over the years, we have observed that consumers mostly prefer tools that are incorporated with durable LCD screens. That’s why the majority of the Brother quilting machines have been designed to cater to the users’ needs, and this version is not an exception. The easily controllable LCD screen can be used to preview the designs and stitches before working on the fabric.

This allows you to make required adjustments in case of any problem or pattern mismatch. The button located near the screen can be used to modify the stitches with utmost convenience. Additional accessories are also available with the main package and are second to none in terms of performance and versatility. There are around 10 different sewing feet that can be used to produce a variety of quilting stitches, especially for thicker fabrics.

Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine is a performance-oriented product available at an extremely reasonable price range in the market. Due to its low price, it is a perfect alternative to high-end tools manufactured by top brands and is suitable for those with financial issues. We highly recommend considering this as a potential option if you are searching for a good embroidery machine for daily use.

Factors to Consider While Purchasing the Best Long Arm Quilting Machines

Longarm quilting machines are highly popular among consumers due to their remarkable features and unrivaled performance efficiency. Furthermore, these tools also require huge investment and thus, must be purchased carefully to avoid any financial loss. In order to aid you with the selection process, we have developed a detailed buying guide on a variety of factors that often act as guiding factors to consumers’ choices. The guide is included below for your convenience.

Format

First and foremost, you should look at the format of the machine you’re going to purchase. There are two major formats offered by the majority of the units available in the market. Firstly, the sit-down model. These models are designed to remain at a place and do not require any movement while working. You can adjust it on a table and sit on a chair to complete the task.

However, as the machine is stagnant, you will have to move the quilt for better results. We highly recommend it for beginners and those that can not afford high-priced products because of their low price and user-friendliness.  Apart from the sit-down models, machines with standing configurations have also gained wide recognition among users of diverse backgrounds.

They can be placed on large stands that are incorporated with specialized rollers. These rollers can be used to adjust the quilt. Instead of moving the quilt, the machine moves along the track, thereby helping you to sew the quilt without exerting much effort. We advise purchasing them for large projects. Recently, manufacturers have also introduced tools that feature both functionalities that can be used depending on the requirement.

Workspace

Next up on the list is the workspace. No matter whether you are quilting, embroidering, or simply sewing a fabric, a large workspace always works wonders. This not only provides sufficient space to work but also enough room for storing related equipment and accessories. Of course, there is no doubt that the need for a wide workspace becomes inevitable when working on large quilting projects. You not only need to store additional accessories but also move the quilt while working, which might not be possible in case of limited space availability.

Thus, quilting machines are designed in a way to accommodates the users’ needs. Models with standing configurations are equipped with specialized rollers that can be used to adjust the quilt. They also help in quilt movement during the sewing process. You can also use the height of the machine to your advantage and adjust the quilt in a way that its length is reduced to half. This will prevent it from falling and will enable you to manage it better.

In contrast, sit-down models are suitable for small-scale projects where you do not require a lot of space. The reason for this is the limited table size which can become a hindrance in the case of huge quilts. However, they can be used for practicing purposes and personal use by beginners and experts alike. All in all, we recommend looking for the length of the stand while setting out to purchase the best long arm quilting machines in 2021. The longer the stand, the more space available for accommodating the quilt and less time it will take to complete the task.

Functionality: Manual vs. Computerized

After you have selected the configuration, it is time to proceed with the next step, which is the functionality of the unit you are going to purchase. Quilting machines are available in both manual and computerized versions that can be used depending on the individual skills as well as requirements. Computerized versions are highly efficient and do not require a lot of time to get the job done.

Furthermore, they are mostly associated with autonomic features that enable them to deliver the best performance outcome without exerting much effort. However, these tools are expensive in nature and might not be affordable by the majority. To accommodate such consumers, manual versions are also available in the market and can be used as an alternative to their previously mentioned counterparts.

The manual version might seem a bit difficult to operate and might require more concentration and effort on the users’ part. But, they are budget-friendly in nature and do not lag behind their computerized competitors in terms of performance. One thing you must keep in mind, that, unlike other sewing machines, the quilting machines are not incorporated with feed dogs and thus, are characterized by free-motion stitching.

Therefore, you might face a bit of difficulty and precision issues while working with manual models. We highly recommend these tools to all the pros out there for polishing their skills. Similarly, if you are a beginner, we suggest avoiding them because they are difficult to manage, and you might have to compromise accuracy. No matter which type of machine you are using, you should always start with a slow speed and then increase it as you progress to avoid unwanted mistakes.

Expandability

Versatility and expandability are also crucial when it comes to purchasing a quilting machine. The majority of the units available in the market are often incorporated with built-in decorative and quilting stitches along with some extraordinary designs. However, that is not all. You should look for a tool that also allows you to import data from external sources as well.

Look for USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. This will help you shift data and files between your computer and machine without any difficulty. In addition to this, you should also search for accessories available with the main package. Accessories offer you more room for experimentation and help you in polishing your skills, especially if you are a novice user.

Apart from this, USB ports can also be used for data transfer regarding various useful tools, laser sites, rule attachments, and required features. Another advantage of expandable features is cost-efficiency, as it enables you to transport features into an existing system that can help in reducing the cost of the unit to a great extent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a long arm quilting machine?

A long arm quilting machine is a highly efficient product that can be used to stitch three layers of the fabric together with the help of the metal framework. It is different from traditional quilting machines and does not require you to move the quilt while working. Instead, the machine itself can move in horizontal and vertical positions to get the task done.

How much does a long arm quilting machine cost?

The price of a long arm quilting machine varies depending on its attributes, quality construction as well as manufacturer. However, the average price of these units ranges between $100 to $1500. We would also recommend you to look for reliable brands such as Janome and Brother. You can further find affordable machines here with all the essential elements easily.

What factors should be considered while purchasing a long arm quilting machine?

There are a variety of factors that should be carefully considered while purchasing a long arm quilting machine. They include the working format such as sit-down configuration and standing configuration, the availability of space, functionality like computerized or manual operation, and expandability of the unit. All these factors combine together to deliver unrivaled performance.

Wrapping Up

Longarm quilting machines are performance-efficient tools that are integrated with an automatic needle threader, thread trimmer, wide workspace, LED lights, and a powerful ultra-quiet motor. Based on these attributes, the following are our top three recommendations for all the consumers out there.

• Brother PQ1500SL Sewing and Quilting Machine due to its large LCD screen, fast stitching speed, jam-resistant drop-in bobbin, and durable knee lifter.
• Brother CS7000i Sewing and Quilting Machine because of its incredible accessories, automatic needle threader, large workspace, jam-resistant bobbin, enhanced portability, and cost-efficiency.
• Brother HC1850 Sewing and Quilting Machine for its versatility, sit-down configuration, durable outlook, wide workspace, needle threading abilities, and hassle-free assembly.

Thus, they are ideal for those looking for the best long arm quilting machines in 2021.