There are many reasons why you might prefer an inexpensive sewing machine.
Maybe it’s a gift for a newbie sewist (who might not like the hobby in a year… or a week.) Or perhaps you need a backup machine? Or maybe you just be a reasonable person who has a specific budget in mind when it comes to crafting related shopping.
In any case, it’s true, you might have to lose a few bells and whistles, but you still can buy a quality machine for way less than many people would think. (But don’t go too cheap! Make sure it has all the basics you need in its list of features). I hope this guide will help you to make the right decision.
Are you interested in a particular question about the subject of this article? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
How much does a cheap sewing machine cost?
Most beginner-oriented sewing machines are highly affordable today. Many of them cost less than $200 and will definitely help you in mastering your sewing skills.
More upscale options can go up to $500 and way beyond range, but those are for people willing to invest extra time and efforts in the skill development process. And taking the whole process VERY seriously.
In this rating, we hardly have any machines that cost more than $200. But we’ve made sure that all the units we’ve reviewed are of decent quality and will serve you well as long as possible.
The caveats of purchasing cheap sewing machine
If you’re considering buying a cheap one because “you’re not going to do a lot of sewing” or “what if you don’t like sewing,” don’t.
Because a cheap machine can take responsibility for the “reasons” and become a self-fulfilling prophecy.
They won’t give out straight stitches, miss a couple of stitches, get easily jammed and won’t last long. It’s hardly enjoyable to sew “a lot” that way.
So, if you’re thinking about saving a few bucks, go for the reasonably priced ones.
Most of the machines offered on the internet are of the refurbished range to obtain a low price. Budget-conscious customers can make significant cost savings to these slight imperfections. The best worth products are those still under warranty, which will allow for some peace of mind right after obtaining.
Don’t pick the cheapest of the cheapest. Spent slightly more and consider it an investment. It’s going to be worth it and last you’re old and won’t need a lot of repairs.
Just think how many times this machine will pay for itself as long as it produces decent quality stitches. You won’t be longer throwing away clothes that can be easily mended. And no longer you would need to buy tons of gifts for all the holidays and family celebrations. You can make them yourself!
Here’s how we’ve researched sewing machines
- We’ve analyzed the selection of most popular sewing machines that are sold on Amazon.com and selected 50+ of the cheapest best-rated units.
- We’ve scrutinized the shortlist based on the design, users’ reviews and feedback, functionalities and more.
- The final list of the top 8 best cheapest sewing machines was categorized based on the crucial machines’ features: whether its quilting functionality, portability or else.
Compare cheap sewing machines
For your convenience, you can find all the major data points describing each sewing machine in the rating in one table below. You can quickly access the detailed review related to the particular model by clicking on its name in the left column.
| Model | Weight, P | Price | Stitches | H.Duty | Easy | SYS Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brother PE535 | 10.82 | $$ | No | Y | Y | 9.3 |
| Brother CS5055PRW | 15.1 | $ | 50 | Y | Y | 9.2 |
| Brother xm2701 | 12.6 | $ | 27 | Y | Y | 9.0 |
| Janome Pink Sorbet | 12 | $ | 15 | N | Y | 9.2 |
| Varmax mini | 2.85 | $ | 1 | N | Y | 9.0 |
| SINGER | Start 1304 | 9.8 | $ | 6 | Y | Y | 8.5 |
| Brother RLX3817 | 12.55 | $ | 17 | Y | Y | 8.7 |
| SINGER | Simple 3223 | 12.2 | $ | 23 | Y | Y | 9.5 |
And now let’s dive deeper into details about the cheapest sewing machines in each category.
Best cheap embroidery machine
Brother PE535
Description:
It’s an excellent little machine for you if you are just starting out in machine embroidery and don’t want to make large designs. It doesn’t come with all the supplies you need, but it comes with all the functions that the machine needs.
Getting started is easy, it has some designs uploaded, but you can buy or create new designs and upload them through a USB stick. Best value embroidery machine for the beginners in the price range.
Brother PE535 manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Download embroidery design guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- Comes with 80 designs, 6 adjustable fonts, borders and more
- 3.2” Sew Smart color LCD touchscreen display
- Includes a built-in memory function to import more designs
- Automatic needle threader
- Embroidery designs up to 4″x4″
You can check more specifications .
Cheap computerized sewing machine
Brother CS5055PRW
Description:
It can sew through many different fabrics, and you can take advantage of hundreds of beautiful built-in stitches that can be utilized for virtually any project. Winding a bobbin and threadding is very easy.
The multiple setting and patterns are awe-inspiring. There’s a lot to learn, but all you need is covered by the owners manual. This sewing machine has an outstanding value.
Brother CS5055PRW manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 50 stitches, including decorative, heirloom and quilting
- Free arm for working with sleeves and cuffs
- Sewing speed up to 850 stitches per minute
- Comes with 6 specialty feet and more
- 5 one-step buttonholes
- Easy threading of both top thread and bobbin
You can check more specifications .
Best cheap sewing machine for quilting
Brother XM2701
Description:
With a full range of features & cute design, the Brother XM2701 is perfect for beginners learning to sew and quilt. And even more advanced sewers who are looking for easy portability and the generous price tag will be impressed by this machine.
It sews like a dream, and can definitely take on some basic quilting projects. It has some lovely options for quilting stitches and can go through thick materials too. Great unit for the price.
Brother xm2701 manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 27 built-in stitches, including decorative, and quilting stitches
- Sewing speed up to 800 stitches per minute
- Jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
- Built-in free arm
- One-step buttonholer
- Includes 6 sewing feet and more accessories
You can check more specifications .
Best cheap Janome sewing machine
Janome Pink Sorbet
Description:
Janome has done an excellent job with this unit. Not only is it adorable and ridiculously affordable. Stitches are impeccable and pretty. It works well, the manual is excellent, threading is easy, the loading of bobbins is simple. All in all, a solid basic machine. Great for learning or as a simple machine to have around for clothing repairs and occasional projects.
Janome Pink Sorbet manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 15 Built-In Stitches
- 4-Step Buttonhole
- Adjustable Stitch Length & ZigZag Width
- Front-Loading Bobbin System
- 3-Piece Feed Dog System
- Heavy Duty Interior Metal Frame
- Removable Free Arm
- Good bonus pack includes 4 Presser Feet, lots of accessories, easy-to-follow manual and 25-Year Limited Warranty
You can check more specifications .
Love Janome? Check our research of the best Janome sewing machines HERE.
Best cheap small sewing machine
Varmax mini
Description:
Ideal as a first sewing machine. It’s compact and sturdy. Perfect for small projects and quick alterations. You’ll even be able to create brand new clothes.
The model can deal with a variety of fabrics from linen and wool to cotton and denim. Just use the right settings and needles.
It comes with 90/14 needles and is also compatible with 75/11, 80/12, 10/16 needles.
The mini machine has speed controls, enabling you to adjust the speed as you go. There is a slow speed for delicate sewing or small segments and a faster one for larger areas.
The machine arrives pre-threaded and ready to use out of the box. Just plug it into the mains or use four AA batteries to get started. Thanks to its lightweight, small construction, you will also be able to transport this handy machine anywhere! It does the job, and it’s dirt cheap
Varmax mini manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- Only one classic straight-line stitch
- Small and lightweight
- Special cuff slot is designed for sleeves
- Equipped with built-in light
- Bonus bundle includes four bobbins, needles, and even extension table
- Built-in thread cutter for easy sewing
- Foot pedal for easy control
- Automatic bobbin rewinding
You can check more specifications .
Best cheap basic sewing machine
SINGER | Start 1304
Description:
It’s lightweight but very solid. The base is sturdy. It has enough different stitches and functions to be really useful to have (like sewing on buttons and making buttonholes, more than I’ll ever need).
The instructions are easy to follow, and the sewing mechanism’s motion is smooth and seems to last. This product is of high quality. It has a clear manual, along with great YouTube instruction videos. It is easy to use, well supported by the manufacturer and creates beautiful stitches every time.
A really hardworking and straightforward little helper. A truly great basic sewing machine.
SINGER | Start 1304 manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 6 Built-in basic stitches (Straight, Satin, ZigZag, Blind Hem and more)
- Lightweight and Portable
- Heavy-duty frame
- Easy threading with visible guides
- Built-in four-Step Buttonhole
- Comes with three feet (all-purpose, buttonhole, zipper)
- Preset Stitches’ length and width
- Free Arm to sew around cuffs
You can check more specifications .
Best cheap Brother sewing machine
Brother RLX3817
Description:
You might expect that this unit would only be a help for some simple projects at this price. However, it does almost everything the full-size heavy machines do, including buttonholes, lots of different stitches.
It even works with thicker fabrics too – with the proper settings, of course, the maximum thickness that can be sewn on the LX3817 is 6 mm.
It’s a full-size portable that’s perfect for beginners or people who need a machine but don’t sew much or as much as they used to. As soon as you have completed your first project-whether, it’s installing zippers, or pant hems-your savings will exceed the cost of the machine.
Brother RLX3817 manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 17 built-in stitches, including zigzag, blind-hem and more
- Jam resistant
- 4 step auto-sized buttonhole
- Free arm
- Comes with 4 sewing feet and protective soft cover
- Lightweight, portable and compact
You can check more specifications .
Interested in more options from Brother? Check our research of the best brother sewing machines here.
Best cheap Singer sewing machine
SINGER | Simple 3223
Description:
This machine is packed with robust sets of functions, offering excellent Singer quality at a very affordable price. With this little (and pretty) working horse you can take on all kinds of projects.
From fashions to simple home decoration, from gifts to craft items, you can do it all. There are 23 stitches to choose from. And it looks beautiful.
This model can even sew denim with proper needle and machine settings. As suggested by the manufacturer – use Singer Denim needle, type 2026, or Singer standard needle, type 2020.
Using another brand may cause tension and/or timing problems. The proper sizes are 16 or 18, depending on the weight of the fabric.
A perfect starter model.
SINGER | Simple 3223 manual
Download User’s guide (PDF)
Check instructional videos here
Features:
- 23 built-in stitched including options for home décor and crafts
- 4-step buttonhole
- Automatic bobbin winder
- Heavy-duty metal frame
- Free arm and storage section
- Stitch selector
- High presser foot lifter
- Good bonus pack includes 4 presser feet, quilting guide, needles, bobbins and more
You can check more specifications .
Think that SINGER might have more options you’ll like? Check our research of the BEST SINGER SEWING MACHINES HERE.
Cheap sewing machines deals and pricing guide
Credits: photos by Canva
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