10 Best Sewing Machines under $200, Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Are you looking for a good sewing machine to learn how to sew or enhance your skills? Well, a beginner or intermediate sewer, you may not want to spend a lot of money on purchasing an expensive sewing machine. Fortunately, there are many high-quality machines on the market selling at less than $200.

The best sewing machines under 200 offer a host of features that are very appealing. You’ll be surprised at what these machines can do. To make your shopping for the right model for you, I have reviewed 10 of the top-rated machines so far this year.

Top Picks

Best Sewing Machines under $200 – Quick Rankings

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES	PRICE
EDITORS CHOICE	Brother XR3774 Sewing/Quilting Machine	Dimension:15.3 x 5.8 x 12 inches Weight: 15.87 pounds Versatile free arm	Check on Amazon
BUDGET PICK	Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine	Dimension: 19.48 x 10.75 x 15.96 inches Weight: 10.14 pounds Free-motion Sewing	Check on Amazon
TOP CHOICE	Brother CS6000i Sewing/Quilting Machine	Dimension:16 x 6.7 x 11.4 inches Weight: 13 Pounds 60 different stitch options.	Check on Amazon
	SINGER 4432 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine	Dimension: 15.2 x 6.25 x 12 inches Weight: 14.6 Pounds Reverse stitch sewing ability	Check on Amazon
	SINGER 4411 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine	Dimension: 21.5 x 9.5 x 13 inches Weight: 14.5 pounds Heavy-duty construction	Check on Amazon
	Janome 2212 Sewing Machine	Dimension:18.1 x 14.4 x 10.6 inches Weight: 15.17 pounds Drop feed and free arm features	Check on Amazon
	Brother Computerized CP60X Sewing Machine	Dimension:16.26 x 6.65 x 12.21 inches Weight: 14.17 pounds Fixed needle bar	Check on Amazon
	Heureux Z6 Computerized Sewing/Quilting Machine	Dimension:15.7 x 7 x 12.2 inches Weight: 12 pounds Intuitive LCD screen	Check on Amazon
	AGM Sewing Machine	Dimension: 18.3 x 14.1 x 10.6 inches Weight: 15 pounds Adjustable stitch length and width	Check on Amazon
	MARIG Sewing Machine for beginners	Dimension: 12.59 x 5.7 x 10.82 inches Weight: 9.59 pounds Good-quality construction	Check on Amazon

My 10 Handpicked under 200 Sewing Machines

As a beginner who has recently started sewing classes and wants to take your skills to another level, any machine under $200 will be a good option for you. Seasoned sewers can also use these machines. The models are reasonable and come with many features, which make them a must-have for beginners and experts alike on budget.

 

The machine allows up to 37 different built-in stitch options. These stitches include blind hem, quilting, and decorative stitches as well as a one-step buttonhole. With all these stitches, you’ll be able to meet all your daily sewing and quilting needs.

Its versatile free arm allows you to handle a wide variety of everyday sewing projects. Additionally, the smart features included make your experience with this machine convenient. The automatic needle threader and top drop-in bobbin are some of the useful features of this machine

The automatic needle threader helps to make the threading process easy while the drop-in top bobbin ensures that you experience jam-free sewing. Once you purchase the machine, you’ll get several accessories including an instructional DVD, wide table, eight sewing feet, and machine cover, among others.

Conclusion

Brother XR3774 Sewing/Quilting Machine offers you the convenience you need to perform and complete your everyday sewing and quilting projects. Its construction is top-notch and investing your money in it will be worth it. With 37 stitches at your disposal, you can meet all your sewing needs with ease.

 

Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine offers 50 unique built-in stitch options. Although they may not be as many as in other high-end machines, they are sufficient for a beginner or someone who isn’t very advanced in sewing. These stitches include 5 automatic-size buttonholes.

When it comes to construction, the machine has a heavy-duty yet lightweight body that’s easy to handle. The materials used for the construction of this machine are good-quality, which means that the model is durable and made to serve you for years.

Additionally, the drop-in top bobbin and automatic needle threader play a very important role in ensuring that your experience with the machine is a good one. The auto needle threader conveniently pushes the thread through the needle to ease the threading process. Moreover, the drop-in top bobbin is jam-resistant.

This machine’s LCD screen simplifies your selection of stitches. You can view the various stitches on the screen and with a single push of a button; you can select the one you need. The machine comes with a host of accessories include sewing feet, twin needle, 3-piece needle set, instruction manual, etc.

Conclusion

Despite being made with ease of use in mind, the machine is almost feature-rich like a high-end, expensive machine out there. The LCD screen makes choosing stitches and other settings a breeze for anyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate sewer, you won’t go wrong if you choose this machine.

 

Brother CS6000i Sewing/Quilting Machine allows you to have 60 different built-in stitch options to meet all your everyday sewing and quilting projects. These stitches include styles of automatic-size buttonholes.

The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin are other great features that go without mentioning. First, the auto needle threader makes the threading an easy job for both an expert and beginner. Second, the drop-in top bobbin is jam-resistant. Your experience with this sewing and quilting machine is smooth and convenient.

Choose your stitch option from the intuitive LCD screen. From here, it’s easy to view and choose the setting that you want with a simple push of a button. This feature makes this machine a great option for beginner or intermediate sewers.

When you buy, the machine won’t come alone. Included in the package will be a host of useful accessories to help you work with the machine efficiently. These accessories include a wide table, ten sewing feet, 3 bobbins, twin needles, etc.

Conclusion

Brother is one of the reputable brands that make high-quality and affordable sewing machines. This model is not different. It’s top-notch and worth the money. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or seasoned sewer, this machine is for you. With 60 stitches at your disposal, you’ll be able to meet your everyday sewing and quilting needs.

 

The machine is also high-quality in terms of performance. It has been rated so highly by previous buyers for how good it has for what it’s designed to do. When it comes to ease of use, this sewing machine can be used by beginners and experts alike.

This electric sewing machine offers 110 stitch options so that you can meet all your sewing needs, including basic and decorative stitches. Whether you’re buying it for household or commercial use, the machine is good in both worlds.

The reverse stitch sewing ability is what makes stand out from its competitors. The built-in reserve level allows you to sew in reverse and also be able to get reinforced stitches. The machine includes a host of accessories such as all-purpose foot, buttonhole foot, zipper foot, seam ripper/lint brush, button sewing foot, auxiliary spool pin, bobbins, needles, guide, etc. It also comes with useful components such as a power cord, quilting guide, screwdriver, etc.

Conclusion

Not many sewing and quilting machines come with a reverse sewing function. This one allows you to have this feature so that you can reinforce your stitches. Additionally, the 110 built-in unique stitches make this machine a great pick for a professional.

 

However, the machine is only good for users who don’t plan to explore a lot of sewing options. That’s because it offers only 11 built-in stitches, including 6 basic stitches, one built-in buttonhole, and 4 decorative stitch options. With all these, you’ll be able to meet your crafting, fashion, and home décor sewing at a beginner level.

The heavy-duty construction and powerful motor make this machine a true workhorse. With this machine, you can easily handle a wide range of fabrics, including thick ones. Additionally, the heavy-duty metal frame enhances stability.

Its high-quality motor makes this machine a high-speed one, offering up to 1100 stitches per minute. Moreover, you can easily adjust the position of the needle when you want to add zippers or a touch of decoration with cording and topstitching. The machine is also lightweight and easy to handle.

Conclusion

If you’ll be dealing with thick fabrics or sewing multiple layers of fabrics, this is the machine for you. Although it doesn’t offer a lot of stitches, it’s a great machine for beginners and experts alike. Its high-speed sewing ability also makes it stand out.

 

Additionally, there’s a dial pattern selection and zigzag stitch option as well as width and length adjustment that ensure you find it easy to use the machine. There are great features that you’ll find useful in this machine. Features like drop feed and free arm make this machine versatile and are able to handle different sewing projects.

You’ll enjoy how easy it is to carry the machine around because of its lightweight design. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine is an ideal machine for beginners. Additionally, the machine can easily handle thick fabrics thanks to its high piercing capability.

This is a high-speed sewing machine that is able to sew at a maximum speed of 860 stitches per minute. That allows you to complete your projects quickly and on time. When you buy, you’ll also get several useful accessories including 10 bobbins.

Conclusion

Durability, performance, and cost-effectiveness are generally the features that make up a good machine. This one has all these features and more. It stands out because of its high-speed operation. Its powerful motor allows this machine to operate at 860 stitches per minute and still maintain a high switching capability to be able to handle different types of fabrics. It’s a good machine to buy.

 

The machine features a durable metal frame thanks to its heavy-duty construction using top-notch quality materials. That makes the machine stable and able to handle any project from heavy quilts to thick denim.

Additionally, there are improved needle threader functions that make your experience with this machine great. The two-step automatic needle threader is simpler than ever to use. It dependably pushes the thread through the needle so that you can enjoy an easy threading experience.

When you buy this machine, it does come alone. You’ll get some useful accessories, including 7 sewing feet. What’s more, the fixed needle bar, ensures that the needle remains at a fixed point while you work, which lets you have cleaner and neater stitching with even lines.

Conclusion

Durability and reliability are important aspects of every valuable investment like a sewing machine. This model is constructed using quality materials that ensure lasting durability and many years of service. But, perhaps the most outstanding feature is the fact that the machine can handle various types of fabrics, including thick ones. If you’re an intermediate sewer or even an expert, you might want to try this machine.

 

This computerized machine is easy for everyone to use.  There’s a top-loading bobbin that’s easier to load and designed to reduce needle jams. Additionally, the automatic needle threader makes the threading process a breeze. You can easily adjust the position of the needle depending on your needs.

Moreover, the intuitive LCD screen allows you to easily read details and choose your stitches and other settings. The screen also makes it easy for anyone to use the machine both beginners and experts alike.

This machine is constructed using quality materials to ensure lasting durability. The top-notch construction combines with a powerful motor to provide the power needed to handle various types of fabrics with ease and efficiency. What’s more, the foot pedal allows you to control the right speed so that you can deal with different clothing projects.

The machine is lightweight so that you can handle it with ease or carry it around without struggling. When you buy, it comes with a variety of useful accessories, videos, and a user manual to show you how to use every feature.

Conclusion

There are two features that make this machine outstanding. One is its lightweight design, which makes it easy to carry around. Two, the machine has a high piercing power, which makes it ideal for handling various types of fabrics, from light to thick ones. When you invest in this, you’ll have got a valuable asset.

 

The automatic threader and drop-in bobbin included in this machine make your experience with it incredible. It’s easy to thread thanks to the auto threader function that allows the machine to perfectly thread the thread through the needle while the ant-jam drop-in bobbin enhances the operation.

Additionally, it’s easy to adjust the stitch width and length. The built-in threader front and front load bobbin are other features that ease your experience with this machine. The one-step buttonhole creates consistent buttonholes in style to fit your needs.

When you buy the machine, you’ll get a host of accessories and components, including one double-needle, thread take-up knife with a brush, auxiliary thread column, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, letter board, etc. The adjustable presser foot lets you adjust the piercing ability of the machine to handle various types of fabrics from very fine and very heavy.

Conclusion

Not many machines under $200 are feature-rich and high-quality. This machine offers up to 200 stitch options. With all these, you can satisfactorily meet your everyday sewing needs. Given that the machine sells at a pocket-friendly price, it’s reasonable to say that this is a worthwhile investment.

 

The machine offers 16 unique built-in stitches that include blind hem, decorative, stretch, and zigzag stitches. With all these, you or your daughter will be able to meet her daily sewing needs. There are smart features that make this machine incredibly. The upper thread tension adjustment allows you to adjust the thread tension to where you want.

Additionally, the machine is made to last. This machine is made using good-quality aluminum and stainless steel alloy. That ensures that it will stand the test of time and serve you for years to come.

Some features that you’ll love about this machine include double thread and double speed. Others include reverse and forward sewing function, automatic thread rewind separately, drawer, and sewing sleeves. You can use a foot pedal or hand switch to start, built-in sewing light to assist you in illuminating your sewing area. The manual is available in English and other languages like French, German, Spanish and Italian.

Conclusion

What sets this machine apart is its quality construction, which ensures durability and longevity. The aluminum and stainless steel allow the skeleton to ensure that the machine serves you for many years. It’s a beginner-friendly and cost-effective machine that’s worth buying.

Buyer’s Guide: What You Should Know Before Buying

Before you start shopping for the best sewing machine under 200, it’s important that you consider some factors to ensure that get the right model for your needs.

The best sewing machine under $200 for you will depend on your budget and level of skills. With that in mind, you must assess your skills and needs before you buy. It’s good that you consider how you might be using your machine, especially when your sewing skills improve.

With less than a hundred dollars, you’ll be able to find a good machine for basic sewing. And with such a machine, you’ll be able to handle most sewing or quilting and craft projects. If you spend a little bit more, you’ll get a machine with extra automated functions. When your skills improve and you want to take your sewing to a professional level, you can go for a high-end machine, which usually sells for thousands of dollars.

In the meanwhile, my buyer’s guide below will help find a good, affordable machine easily. The right machine will come with a proper presser foot, have the right stitch length and thread tension, size, automatically cut thread, and sew buttonholes.

2. What type of machine do you want?

There are different types of sewing machines out there in the market. You should know which types are available so that you can choose wisely:

a.) Mechanical Models – These types of suitable for you if you sew occasionally or you’re on a budget. Most of the controls on these kinds of machines require you to control them manually. Mechanics models can help with basic repairs, simple clothing, hems, and crafts projects.

b.) Electronic Machines – They are ideal for those who sew frequently and don’t mind spending a little more. The machines are computerized and make your work very easy and quick. Some of the features you may enjoy including an LCD screen, touchpad controls, a host of presser feet, and settings for various stitch options.

2. What are the features?

A good sewing machine under $200 should come with a host of features to make your sewing experience easy and quick. Some of the features you should look for include:

i.) Right needle

A dull needle or wring can damage your machine or fabric if it bends unexpectedly. It’s recommended that you change the needles after stitching every type of fabric. You should also take your machine for a checkup after every two years.

ii.) Sewing/Embroidery machines

Electronic machines offer a lot of advanced features. With one, you’ll enjoy all of the features and be able to do embroidery and monogramming for projects like bedspreads, garments, and pillowcases.

iii.) Good sewing ability

Even the most basic sewing machine ought to be able to sew a host of fabrics from denim to corduroy and satin comfortably. Poor quality machines are like to stretch or pucker the fabric or produce loose and loopy stitches.

iv.) Automatic buttonholer

This feature allows you to sew buttonholes in a single simple step. You won’t require stopping and turning the fabric or manipulating a dial. With some machines, you just need to insert the button inside a slot and the machine will sew a fitting buttonhole.

v.) Feed-dog adjustment

Some machines let you drop their toothy mechanism below the sewing surface for free-style darning or embroidery.

vi.) Good controls and ergonomics

Your machine ought to be responsive to pressure on the foot pedal. It shouldn’t growl or stall when you’re sewing multiple layers or thick fabric. The controls ought to be simple to reach and manipulate. Additionally, if your machine has an LED screen, the details and symbols should be simple to read. A machine with more room to the right of its needle offers more space for your hands and fabrics.

vii.) Lightweight

You may need a lightweight sewing machine to be able to handle the machine easily. If you’ll be storing it inside a closet and removing it when you just want to use it, it will be better to choose a lightweight machine. Some machines come with a handle on top.

Viii.) Needle position

This feature is important for allowing you to extract the needle and the stitching line from the left to the right. It also allows you to move the needle up or down you stop. The needle down eases lifting of the pressure foot and turning a corner without jumping stitch.

ix.) Needle threader

The feature pulls the thread through the eye of the needle, making it easy to thread. That saves you straining and frustration.

x.) Presser Feet

You should find out how many feet come with your machine. A basic sewing machine with a multi-purpose foot allows you to do zigzag and straight stitches. However, you’ll want a buttonhole and zipper foot too. Some machines come with adjustable presser feet to regulate how tightly the machine holds the fabric during the sewing process. The feature also prevents stretching in knits and puckering in fine fabrics.

xi.) Top-load bobbin

Most contemporary machines let you easily slide open a panel and drop in the bobbin. This is easy, unlike the traditional machines where one needed to thread the bobbin within a recessed compartment. Some machines also come with a clear cover to allow you to notice when the thread is running low.

xii.) Power switch

It’s used for turning the machine ON/OFF. This feature is very important if there are kids around. For machines without a power switch, a safety strip with a master switch should be used.

xii.) Numbers of Stitches

The number of stitches in a machine varies greatly from the basic stitch options like zigzag and straight to decorative stitch options. I recommend you choose a machine with the highest number of stitches.

xiv.) Adjustable tension

This helps you to change how tight the thread is. A too-tight thread can lead to puckered fabric and if it is too loose, it leads to loopy stitches.

xv.) Speed Control

The feature determines the speed at which the fabric is feed through the machine. A machine with this feature allows you to sew at a good, steady pace instead of having to stop and start.

3. Does the machine come from a reputable brand?

Some of the well-known brands include Brother, Singer, and Janome. You have to buy your machine from recognized brands and manufacturers. While these reputable brands may not be selling their machines at the lowest prices, their products are guaranteed to offer value for money. Their machines are cost-effective in the long run.

There are several reasons why you should only purchase your machine from a reliable brand, including:

a.) Warranties and Guarantees

Only dependable brands and manufacturers who are confident that their products are high-quality can offer reasonable warranties and guarantees. The warranty and guarantee are meant to give you peace of mind and help you buy the item with confidence. That’s because you know that you can get your machine repaired for free, get your machine exchanged with a new one, or even your money back in case it develops mechanical issues within the period specified on the warranty.

b.) Discounts

Reputable brands and sellers may offer discounts on the products or trade-in allowances to help you acquire the product without breaking your bank. Good brands may also offer free sewing lessons or DVDs to he you get started with ease.

c.) Repair policy

Many reliable sewing machine dealers provide in-store services. Those that don’t may send you to the manufacturer or repair center. Regardless of who carries out the repairs, the turnaround time should be reasonable, which usually varies from days to a few weeks.

Note: You should always keep the box and packaging of your machine, in case it requires being transported for repairs.

FAQs

What is the best most reliable sewing machine?

The most reliable sewing machine is durable, high performing, and comes from a reputable brand. Some of the most reliable machines include:
1. Brother XR3774 Sewing/Quilting Machine
2. SINGER 4432 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
3. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

What is the best and easiest sewing machine to buy?

If you’re a beginner or intermediate sewer who wants to enhance his or her skills, you need an easy machine to use. Fortunately, there are many out there to choose from. Just ensure you buy from a reputable brand. Some of the highly-rated beginner-friendly sewing machines include:
1. MARIG Sewing Machine for beginners
2. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
3. Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine

What is the best sewing machine under $300?

Are you looking for a good sewing machine but don’t want to spend over $300 for the same? Well, there are many good-quality models available for you to choose from. Some of the top-rated sewing machines for the money include:
1. Brother CS5055PRW Sewing Machine
2. SINGER 4432 Heavy-Duty Sewing Machine
3. Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
4. Brother Computerized CP60X Sewing Machine

Who makes the most reliable sewing machines?

There are not many brands and manufacturers of top-notch sewing machines. Although everyone claims to offer good-quality products, only a few keep up to quality levels where consumers can get satisfied. If you’re looking to buy a good sewing machine from a reliable brand, then you should purchase from Brother, SINGER, and Janome, among others.

Final Thought

Finding and buying the right sewing machine for your needs and budget doesn’t need to be a struggle. All you have to do is follow the advice given in my buyer’s guide and then choose one from the list thereafter. All the sewing machines on the list above come from reputable brands and have received a lot of ratings and positive reviews from satisfied buyers.

Whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate, or an expert sewer, the list has got something for everything. Additionally, the machines are available at varying price ranges so that you can choose the one that best suits your pocket.

With that in mind, I leave you to make a wise decision for yourself. Ensure you invest in a machine that will give you value for money. For further info regarding the best sewing machines under 200, check my Q&A section below.