Best Mechanical Sewing Machine

Top 3 Picks for Best Mechanical Sewing Machine

Award	Product Image	Product Title	Price	Buy
Our Top Pick		SINGER | 4423 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine With Included Accessory Kit, 97 Stitch Applications, Simple, Easy To Use & Great for Beginners	$188.99

There are many benefits to a mechanical sewing machine. A mechanical sewing machine is a great choice for those who don’t want to get confused by computerized functions, or for those just getting started with sewing.

Often mechanical sewing machines are cheaper than the computerized equivalents which come with all the bells and whistles that you may never use.

So now that you know you want to find a mechanical sewing machine, how can you ensure that you find the best mechanical sewing machine for your needs?

That’s where we come in! We’ve researched and reviewed hundreds of products available on the market and whittled them down to the best 5 mechanical sewing machines.

We’ve included all of our review criteria in a helpful buyer’s guide, too, to show you everything you need to consider before purchasing your new mechanical sewing machine. There are even a few frequently asked questions down below to help you!

In a hurry? Take a look at our top pick below!

OUR TOP PICK: SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine

The Singer 4423 sewing machine easily earns our top pick. That’s because this mechanical sewing machine comes with everything you need to get sewing!

There are 23 basic built-in stitches included to kick start your sewing projects. These vary from basic to decorative stitches and even include some buttonhole stitches.

So this mechanical sewing machine is the ideal pick for those of you who want to tackle a variety of sewing projects!

This Singer sewing machine has been built to last. It features a heavy-duty metal frame under the plastic exterior so you can rest assured that it will be able to keep up with even the most demanding seamster or seamstress.

Featuring a heavy-duty interior metal frame, a stainless steel bed frame, and an extra-high sewing speed, this Singer 4423 sewing machine will cope with even the trickiest of fabrics.

The great thing about this particular mechanical sewing machine is that it can cope with high-speed sewing. It comes with a maximum sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minute so will make short work of your projects!

It even features a 60% stronger motor to give the machine greater power for piercing thick seams.

Another great feature of this mechanical sewing machine is that it comes with an automatic needle threader. The built-in feature will allow you to effortlessly thread the needle on the machine and save you lots of frustration in the process!

This particular Singer sewing machine comes with a range of additional accessories to help you get sewing quickly and effectively. This includes a variety of sewing feet to suit your various projects, needles, bobbins, seam ripper, and a soft-sided dust cover for when the machine isn’t in use.

So you’ll know you’re getting everything you could possibly need all in one handy product! The Singer 4423 sewing machine also comes with a 25 year limited warranty for your peace of mind.

Pros:

• Mechanical sewing machine with 23 built-in stitches
• Heavy-duty sewing machine with a strong metal interior frame
• Comes with a high sewing speed of up to 1,100 stitches per minute
• Features an automatic needle threader function
• Comes with a range of additional accessories including a variety of sewing feet

Cons:

• Doesn’t have as many built-in stitches as a computerized sewing machine

EDITORS CHOICE: Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine

The Brother XM2701 sewing machine is perfect if you’re looking for a reliable mechanical sewing machine.

This particular sewing machine features 27 built-in stitches, so will give you more than enough variety to get stuck in with your sewing projects. Some of these stitches can help you to decorate your fabric, and there’s even an auto-size buttonhole stitch.

This particular mechanical sewing machine features an automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin. These will do wonders for your sanity when it comes to threading the needle and inserting new bobbins!

You can perfectly thread the needle every time should you need to. The drop-in top bobbin is also jam-resistant.

The Brother XM2701 features a versatile free arm. This will be ideal for allowing you to tackle a variety of sewing projects and give you more freedom when sewing. This machine is ideal for both beginners and advanced sewers alike!

There is a range of additional accessories included with the Brother XM2701 sewing machine. It comes with 6 sewing feet, a 3-piece needle set, 4 bobbins, a manual, and an instructional DVD to show you how to use your new sewing machine. Perfect if you want to get everything you’ll need all in one purchase.

The great thing about Brother sewing machines is that they all come with manufacturer support for the lifetime of your machine.

You can easily get in touch with the friendly Brother team should you need technical support for your sewing machine, no matter how old it is.

Pros:

• Mechanical sewing machine with 27 built-in stitches
• Features an automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
• Comes with a versatile free arm
• Comes with a range of additional accessories for you to use
• Includes technical support from the manufacturer for the lifespan of the machine

Cons:

• Some customers felt the machine could be quieter when in use

BEST VALUE: SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine

The Singer Start 1304 sewing machine is the ideal choice for beginners. This particular sewing machine has been designed to be simple to use.

It comes with 6 built-in stitches which can be used for 57 different stitch applications. These even include a pre-set stitch width and stitch length to make things super easy for you!

This particular mechanical sewing machine is lightweight and portable. The machine itself only weighs 7 pounds.

This makes it ideal for sewing in smaller spaces or for taking to your sewing classes. That will save you from having to lug a heavier machine around the place!

The Singer Start 1304 sewing machine can automatically wind your bobbins. To help you do this, there’s a handy diagram included on the machine itself. It will even stop turning automatically once the bobbin is full.

There is a variety of additional accessories also included with this particular sewing machine. This includes 3 sewing feet, bobbins, a pack of needles, a needle plate screwdriver, spool pin felts, a seam ripper, a power cord, and more.

Perfect if you want to get all the accessories you could possibly need with your sewing machine!

This Singer sewing machine comes with a limited 25 year warranty. Perfect for giving you more peace of mind!

Pros:

• Perfect for beginner sewers
• Can be used for 57 stitch applications
• Lightweight and portable sewing machine
• Can automatically wind your bobbins
• Includes a variety of additional accessories for use when sewing

Cons:

• Doesn’t feature as many built-in stitches as competitor machines

RUNNER UP: Janome 2212 Sewing Machine

The Janome 2212 sewing machine is another great choice for those looking to purchase a mechanical sewing machine. This particular Janome mechanical sewing machine comes with 12 built-in stitches to help you start sewing.

It even includes a four-step buttonhole stitch! These will be everything you need to get started with a variety of sewing projects.

This mechanical sewing machine can easily be operated via the turn dial pattern selection. There’ll be no need to worry about figuring out a computerized display panel with this sewing machine under your control!

Everything is simple and easy to understand to give you a straightforward sewing experience.

The Janome 2212 sewing machine features stitch width and stitch length adjustments. This will do wonders for making your sewing machine as easy to use as possible.

You won’t need to worry about adjusting everything yourself every time you want to get stuck in with your latest sewing project!

Another great feature of the Janome 2212 sewing machine is that it comes with drop feed and free motion sewing features.

These will be essential features if you want to give any quilting projects a go without spending money on a more advanced machine. Ideal if you want to experiment with the types of sewing projects you want to tackle.

There are a variety of additional accessories included with this particular mechanical sewing machine.

These include 3 sewing feet, a needle set, bobbin, foot control, seam ripper, screwdriver, instruction manual, and a vinyl dust cover to protect the sewing machine when it’s not in use. Ideal if you want everything you need in the box!

Pros:

• Mechanical sewing machine controlled by a turn dial pattern selection
• Comes with 12 built-in stitches
• Features stitch width and length adjustments
• Comes with drop feed and free motion sewing features
• Includes a variety of additional accessories

Cons:

• Doesn’t come with as many bells and whistles as other mechanical sewing machines

RUNNER UP: SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine

This Singer Heavy Duty 4452 sewing machine is not only mechanical; it also comes with everything you could possibly need to create a variety of sewing projects.

It comes with 32 built-in stitches that give you a whopping 110 stitch applications. There will be no end to the types of creative projects you can tackle with this sewing machine in your hands!

A great feature of this particular sewing machine is the fact it can automatically thread the needle. This will save you from getting frustrated at trying to do it manually and won’t strain your eyes.

Meaning you can simply automatically thread the needle and get back to sewing!

This particular Singer mechanical sewing machine boasts a high sewing speed. It can cram in a whopping 1,100 stitches in a single minute!

This will be ideal for those of you who have a steady hand and love to sew fast. There’s no need to worry about the Singer 4452 being able to cope with your demanding sewing, either.

This particular sewing machine has a 60% stronger motor to help it deal with heavyweight fabrics.

The Singer Heavy Duty 4452 has been built to be as durable as possible. It features a stainless steel bedplate for smoother fabric flow, and a heavy-duty interior metal frame ensures for skip-free sewing.

Perfect if you want a sewing machine that will be able to keep up with more demanding sewing!

You’ll have everything you need with this particular sewing machine. There is a range of additional accessories included so that you can simply set it up and get sewing.

There’s a range of different sewing feet included, as well as a pack of needles, a clearance plate, seam ripper, bobbins, spool pin felt, and many more. These can all be stored in the handy accessory tray!

It even includes a soft-sided dust cover to protect the machine when it’s not in use.

Pros:

• Mechanical sewing machine designed with heavy-duty use in mind
• Features 32 built-in stitches with 110 stitch applications
• Automatic needle threading feature
• High sewing speed of up to 1,100 stitches per minute
• Includes a range of heavy-duty accessories

Cons:

• More expensive than other mechanical sewing machines on our list

Best Mechanical Sewing Machine Buying Guide

There are many reasons people prefer to opt for a mechanical sewing machine over its computerized equivalent. A mechanical sewing machine can be simpler to use - especially if you’re put off by more technological features.

As a result, they can also be cheaper and lend themselves well to beginners.

Whatever the reason you want to buy a new mechanical sewing machine, there’s a bit of thought that should be put into the buying process. You won’t want to give in and buy the cheapest model you can find - this could backfire in the long run!

And it could mean that you have to spend even more money when you have to find a different machine.

Not sure what to look for in a mechanical sewing machine? Not to worry. That’s what our handy buyer’s guide is for! We’ve collated all the factors you’ll need to consider when it comes to choosing the best mechanical sewing machine for you and your needs below.

Take a look at everything you’ll need to think about below or skip ahead to the frequently asked questions!

Dial operated

One of the main features of a mechanical sewing machine that sets it apart from its computerized alternative is the fact you can manually choose the settings.

Look for a sewing machine that is dial operated. This means that you can manually choose your stitch settings via the handy turn dial.

These will be much easier to use for beginners who could become overwhelmed by all the choices on a computerized machine.

The great thing about mechanical sewing machines is that the dial operation gives you greater control without having to compromise on stitching capabilities!

Ease of use

Chances are you’ve selected a mechanical sewing machine over a computerized machine because it will be easier to use.

So that is exactly what you should look for when it comes to choosing the perfect machine for you. How easy is it to operate? Can you easily make sense of the dial and how the machine works in general?

A machine that will be easy to use will be a lifesaver in the long run. You can effortlessly flex your creative skills without having to worry about how everything works. You’re also more likely to use a machine that is easier to operate, too!

Built-in stitches

How many built-in stitches does your chosen mechanical sewing machine come with?

The more built-in stitches included with the sewing machine, the better. This will give you more choice when it comes to the stitches you can use on your creative projects.

It will also be worth considering the number of stitch applications these built-in stitches can give you. One of our best mechanical sewing machine choices only had 6 built-in stitches, but this is still able to give you a massive 57 stitch applications.

The stitch applications may be a greater indication of the variety of projects you can use your sewing machine for, depending on the projects you have in mind!

Additional accessories

Another great thing to look out for is the number of additional accessories included with your mechanical sewing machine. This will include things like extra sewing feet, extra needles, extra bobbins, and the like.

The more additional accessories that come with your sewing machine, the better. This will mean you won’t have to spend more money buying them all individually after you’ve received your sewing machine!

One additional accessory that will be worth keeping an eye out for will be a dust cover for the sewing machine. This will protect your machine when it’s not in use and ensure that it’s ready for the next time you need it.

Value for money

One of the most important things to bear in mind is getting the best value for your money. You won’t want to spend loads of money on a sewing machine that’s going to break after 5 minutes.

Similarly, you shouldn’t skimp and buy the cheapest machine you can find, only to have to replace it again when it breaks.

Look for a mechanical sewing machine that is going to be able to do the job at hand while also being at an affordable price. There are many branded mechanical sewing machines that are well worth the investment - and some even come with a lifetime’s worth of technical support.

Automatic needle threader

A mechanical sewing machine that comes with an automatic needle threader will be a lifesaver. How many times have you leant over your sewing machine without this feature, cursing when you couldn’t get the thread through the eye of the needle?

This handy feature will take all of the stress out of the equation and automatically thread the needle for you. That will be a lifesaver if you want to get back to sewing as quickly as possible!

Warranty

Look for a mechanical sewing machine that comes with a decent warranty. This will do wonders for your peace of mind - especially should something go wrong.

The good news is that there are loads of sewing machines available on the market which come with long warranties.

The longer the warranty, the less you will stress about your machine giving up the ghost on you. Chances are that a longer warranty will also be a good indicator of the lifespan of your chosen machine.

Some machines even come with lifetime technical support, too. This will be a real lifesaver if you plan on getting your money’s worth in terms of sewing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mechanical sewing machine?

A mechanical sewing machine is simply a sewing machine that is controlled by a turn dial. This doesn’t have any computerized features and is often the choice for beginners or those who were taught to sew on traditional machines.

There are many benefits to a mechanical sewing machine including ease of use, being more affordable than their computerized counterparts, and being comfortable to use.

What is the best mechanical sewing machine?

As we’ve listed above, the best mechanical sewing machines are:

• SINGER 4423 Sewing Machine
• Brother XM2701 Sewing Machine
• SINGER Start 1304 Sewing Machine
• Janome 2212 Sewing Machine
• SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine

The best mechanical sewing machines for heavy-duty home use would be either the Singer 4423 or the Singer Heavy Duty 4452.

How often should you clean your sewing machine?

This will entirely depend on how often you use it. Some sewers recommend cleaning your machine after every 10 hours worth of use.

A handy way to see when your sewing machine needs to be cleaned is to take a look inside the bobbin case. If you can see a build-up of lint, it’s probably time to give it a good clean.