Portable sewing machines are often more convenient. They can be easily moved and stored away. There are countless sewing machines on the market today. We have taken the burden of research off your shoulder and made shopping for the best portable sewing machine easier for you.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Portable Sewing Machines in 2024
Overall Best Portable Sewing Machine
SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Portable Sewing Machine
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 is our choice for overall best portable sewing machine. It is lightweight, easy to use and affordable. And it can handle heavy duty fabrics.
Premium Choice
Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing
The Singer Quantum Stylist has a large work area and 600 built-in stitches. It is a great sewing machine for someone that is learning how to quilt.
Great Value
SINGER Start 1304 Free Arm Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
The Singer 1304 sewing machine is inexpensive and has all the basic features you will need.
What is a Portable Sewing Machine?
A portable sewing machine is just like a regular sewing machine except it is lighter and often smaller. They usually only have a few stitch options and minimal features. They are not ideal for large or bulky projects. They are designed to handle small tasks and alterations.
Who Would Benefit from a Best Portable Sewing Machine?
Portable sewing machines are not for everyone. They are not suitable for everyone since they have limited stitches and features. But if you are looking for the best portable machine that can handle small jobs, a portable sewing machine may be the best option for you.
You may be interested in a portable sewing machine if you:
- Have a limited budget
- Are a beginner
- Frequently sew
- Only need it for small repairs
- Have a small space
- Need a sewing machine for kids
- Need to transport it often
- Want a backup machine
How to Take Care of a Portable Sewing Machine
Portable sewing machines need the same care other sewing machines require. Just Every sewing machine is unique, so refer to your manual for proper cleaning and servicing.
To keep your sewing machine running properly, it is essential to perform regular maintenance.
Maintenance includes:
- Change the needle frequently
- Make sure screws are tight
- Lubricate moving parts
- Every few years have it tuned up
- When not in use, keep it covered
- Dispose of bent needles immediately
- If screws are damaged or missing, replace them
- Clean the machine before and after every use
Benefits of Using a Portable Sewing Machine
Portable sewing machines are popular among sewers. They are usually inexpensive and convenient. The benefits of portable sewing machines include:
- Portable
- Smaller than regular sewing machines
- Easy to store
- Inexpensive
- Perfect for small repairs
Things to Consider When Purchasing the Best Portable Sewing Machine
Portable sewing machines usually do not have a lot of fancy features. But there are a few things that you will want to take into consideration when purchasing the best portable sewing machine.
- Size
You do not want to carry a machine around that is bulky.
- Weight
Just because a machine is portable, does not mean that it does not have some weight to it. Make sure you purchase a machine that you can carry easily.
- Cost
A portable machine should be cheaper than other machines.
- Number of stitches
You may not need a lot of stitch choices. But you will want a few to choose from.
- Additional features
Additional features can make sewing easier. Many sewing machines have an automatic needle threader, self-cutting thread feature, clear bobbin cover, LCD screen, and speed control.
- Warranty
Verify that the machine you are purchasing has a decent warranty. Since it is a portable machine, the warranty will probably not be amazing. Portable machines are often made from lightweight materials that wear out quickly.
10 of the Best Portable Sewing Machines for 2024
1. Brother HC1850 Portable Sewing Machine
Brother makes amazing sewing machines. This machine is portable and has several additional features.
Why We Like the Brother HC1850 Portable Sewing Machine:
The Brother HC1850 Sewing Machine is a great machine if you are learning how to quilt. You can take your own machine, so you can learn in it.
- Weight
This portable sewing machine is super light and easy to carry.
- LCD Display
The LCD display is easy to use.
- 185 Stitches
This machine has a lot of stitches to choose from.
Pros and Cons of the Brother HC1850 Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 10.14 Pounds
- Built-on flip chart
- Monogramming sewing font
- 185 Built-in stitches
- Adjustable sewing speed
- Wide table
- Bright work area
- Automatic needle threader
- Drop-in top bobbin
- 850 Stitches per minute
- Backlit LCD Screen
Cons:
- Not the greatest sewing machine for quilting
- Cannot handle all types of fabrics
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2. Brother XM2701 Portable Sewing Machine
This Brother XM2701 has plenty of features that make it fun and easy to use.
Why We Like the Brother XM2701 Portable Sewing Machine:
This machine is great for a beginner. It has enough features to learn how to use a sewing machine.
- Instructional DVD
Included with the sewing machine is an informative instructional DVD. It explains the basics of operating the sewing machine.
- Stitch Dial
You can easily choose your stitch with the stitch dial. The stitches are pictured on the side of the sewing machine right above the dial.
- Buttonhole Feature
The Brother XM2701 Sewing machine has a buttonhole feature that is extremely easy to use.
Why We Like the Brother XM2701 Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 12.6 Pounds
- Great for beginners
- 27 Built-in stitches
- Inexpensive
- Automatic needle threader
- Free arm
- Lightweight
- 800 Stitches per minute
- Jam resistant drop-in bobbin
Cons:
- Spool is known to bounce
- Heavy-duty fabrics can be tricky
- Foot pedal is finicky
- LED light is dim
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3. SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Portable Sewing Machine
Most portable sewing machines are not heavy duty. The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 sewing machine is a tough little machine.
Why We Like the SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Portable Sewing Machine:
The Singer Heavy Duty 4411 singer is a lightweight sewing machine that can handle heavy duty fabrics with ease.
- Heavy Duty Machine
This lightweight machine can sew thick fabrics.
- Stainless steel bedplate
The stainless-steel bedplate helps the fabric feed through the sewing machine smoothly.
- LED Lighting
Having a bright light is important when sewing. This machine has a bright LED light.
Pros and Cons of the SINGER Heavy Duty 4411 Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 14.5 Pounds
- Heavy Duty
- 11 Built-in stitches
- Adjustable pressure foot
- Metal frame
- Stainless-steel bedplate
- Clear bobbin cover
- Adjustable needle position
- Drop-in bobbin
- Free motion sewing
- LED lighting
- 1100 Stitches per minute
Cons:
- No automatic needle threader
- Dial is a little hard to turn
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4. SINGER Start 1304 6 Built-in Stitches, Free Arm Best Sewing Machine for Beginners
Singer is well-known for producing high-end sewing machines. This machine was designed to be portable at only 11.46 pounds.
Why We Like the SINGER Start 1304 Free Arm Best Sewing Machine:
The Singer Start 1304 has all the basic features that you will need, and it is easy to use.
- Easy to Use
You can easily master this sewing machine in no time at all.
- Quiet
A lot of sewing machines are loud. This machine is very quiet.
- Inexpensive
If you need a portable sewing machine that will not break the bank, the Singer Start 1304 is the perfect choice.
Pros and Cons of the SINGER Start 1304 Free Arm Best Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 11.46 Pounds
- Free arm
- Automatic bobbin winding
- Easy stitch selection
- Full metal frame
- Inexpensive
- 6 Essential stitches
Cons:
- Front-loading bobbin
- Cannot handle thick fabric
- Maximum speed is still slow
- Reverse lever is off to the right
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5. Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Brother XR3774 is an affordable portable quilting sewing machine.
Why We Like the Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine:
The bright work area makes it easy to sew on this machine. There are several features that make this a user-friendly machine.
- Clear Bobbin Case
The clear bobbin case is a real time saver. You can easily see how much thread you have before you run out.
- Drop-in Bobbin
Drawing the bobbin thread up by hand can be difficult. The drop-in bobbin feature removes this headache.
- Bright Work Area
This sewing machine has a bright work area that makes sewing easier.
Pros and Cons of the Brother XR3774 Sewing and Quilting Machine:
Pros:
- 15.87 Pounds
- 37 built-in stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Versatile free arm
- Drop-in top bobbin
- Clear bobbin case
- Large work table
- Bright work area
- Top loading bobbin system
Cons:
- 15.87 Pounds
- A little heavier than other portable sewing machines
- Cannot drop the feed dogs
- Small throat
- Noisy
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6. SINGER Simple 3232 Sewing Machine with Built-In Needle Threader
The Singer Tradition 3232 Sewing Machine has all the basic features. And features 32 built-in stitches and 1 step buttonhole.
Why We Like the SINGER Simple 3232 Sewing Machine:
It is a good portable sewing machine that is fast and can handle heavy duty fabrics.
- 750 Stitches
You can get large jobs done quickly at 750 stitches per minute.
- Metal Frame
This portable machine has a strong heavy duty metal frame.
- Can Hand Thick Fabrics
Most portable sewing machines cannot handle heavy fabrics.
Pros and Cons of the SINGER Simple 3232 Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 12.25 Pounds
- 32 Built-in stitches
- 1 Step buttonhole
- Metal frame
- Automatic needle threader
- 750 Stitches per minute
- Adjustable stitch length
- Can handle thick fabrics
Cons:
- Front loading bobbin
- Directions are confusing
Get this Portable Sewing Machine Here
7. Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine
If you are looking for a portable sewing machine that is convenient and easy to use, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a great choice. However, it is a little heavier than some of the other best portable sewing machines on our list.
Why We Like the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Portable Sewing Machine:
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9600 is an impressive machine. It has 600 built-in stitches and programmable patterns. It is a favourite among beginners and experienced sewers alike.
- 600 Built-in Stitches
With 600 built-in stitches you will have the perfect stitch available for your project.
- Programmable Patterns
You can edit patterns that are on the sewing machine. Or you can add your own.
- High-speed Sewing Machine
The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 can produce up to 850 stitches per minute.
Pros and Cons of the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- Good for beginners and advanced level users
- 13 buttonhole styles
- Extension table
- Drop-in Bobbin
- Self-cutting thread feature
- LCD Screen
- Clear bobbin cover
- Programmable patterns
- 600 built-in stitches
- Automatic needle threader
- Speed control
Cons:
- 20 Pounds
- Heavy than other portable machines
- Not the best machine for embroidery
Get this Portable Sewing Machine Here
8. Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Portable Sewing Machine
Just because you are using a portable sewing machine does not mean it should be slow. This heavy duty sewing machine is impressive.
Why We Like the Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Portable Sewing Machine:
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Sewing machine has all the most important features you will need in a portable sewing machine.
- Heavy Duty Metal Frame
This portable sewing machine is durable. With proper care, it should last a long time.
- Powerful Motor
For a lightweight machine, it has a powerful motor. You will be able to sew up to 1100 stitches per minute.
- 32 Built-in Stitches
The Singer Heavy Duty 4432 has 32 built-in stitches.
Pros and Cons of the Singer Heavy Duty 4432 Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- Heavy Duty
- 3 different needle positions
- Powerful motor
- Heavy duty metal frame
- 32 built-in stitches
- Affordable
- Easy to use
Cons:
- 14.6 Pounds
- Heavy than other portable machines
- Not computerized
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9. Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine
If you are looking for one of the best portable sewing machines that offers a large variety of stitches, the Brother CS6000i may be the answer.
Why We Like the Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine:
The Brother CS6000i is a user-friendly sewing machine with several helpful features.
- Jam-resistant Bobbin Winding
There is a handy diagram on the sewing machine that shows you where to put the thread for fast jam-resistant bobbin winding.
- LCD Screen
The LCD screen is easy to read.
- Bright Work Area
The Brother CS6000i has a super bright work area.
Pros and Cons of the Brother CS6000i Sewing and Quilting Machine:
Pros:
- 13 Pounds
- 60 Built-in stitches
- Speed control
- Affordable
- Free arm
- Jam-resistant drop-in bobbin
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Low maintenance
- LCD screen
- Bright work area
- Can handle some heavy fabrics
Cons:
- Thread can pop off
- Is known to have tension issues
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10. Janome Arctic Crystal Easy-to-Use Portable Sewing Machine
The Janome Arctic Crystal sewing machine is eye-catching. The blue colour adds a special touch to this machine.
Why We Like the Janome Arctic Crystal Portable Sewing Machine:
This portable sewing machine is perfect for beginners and small sewing projects.
- Heavy Duty Frame
The interior metal frame should help this portable sewing machine last.
- Color
The blue color adds a nice playful touch to this machine.
- Stitch Options
The Janome Artic Crystal has 15 built-in stitches.
Pros and Cons of the Janome Arctic Crystal Portable Sewing Machine:
Pros:
- 12 Pounds
- Interior Metal Frame
- Affordable
- 15 Built-in Stitches
- 4-Step Buttonhole
- 3-Piece Feed Dog
- Free Arm
Cons:
- Front Loading Bobbin
- Vibrates
- No thread cutter
- No automatic needle threader
- Cannot lower feed dog
Get this Portable Sewing Machine Here
Sewing is a great stress reliever that engages the brain and brings out your creative side. Having the best portable sewing machine gives you the ability to take your craft with you.
If you are learning to sew or need a sewing machine that is easily transportable, a portable sewing machine may be what you are looking for. These machines often have all the basic functions you will need and are lightweight and convenient.
You might also want to check our review on the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners.
If you are looking for a portable sewing machine, check out our list of the best portable sewing machines.
