Are you new to sewing and wondering what exactly are the differences between mechanical and computerized sewing machine? The debate about mechanical vs computerized sewing machine has been going on since the development of computerized sewing machines. Each of these machines is different with many pros and cons so it all comes down to the user. All they need to decide is which one of the machines suits their requirements.
If you are planning to buy a sewing machine and are confused about which one to buy, then it is prudent that you understand the differences between a mechanical sewing machine and a computerized sewing machine. So let’s have a look.
Mechanical Vs Computerized Sewing Machine: Main Differences
| Mechanical | Computerized |
| Mechanical sewing machines have dials and knobs that allow the user to change the settings on the machine. | Computerized machines do not have any kind of knobs or dials or any sort of physical buttons to change its settings. |
| A bit bulky as compared to a computerized sewing machine and needs more storage space. | A computerized sewing machine is more compact and needs very little storing space. |
| Mechanical sewing machines are more old-school. | Computerized sewing machines are connected to a computer and is built on the latest technology. |
| Mechanical sewing machines are cheaper than computerized. | Computerized sewing machines run on the latest technology hence is pricier than a mechanical sewing machine. |
| Mechanical sewing machines are more user friendly. | For a newbie, a computerized sewing machine can be a little complicated to use. |
| Mechanical sewing machines have no inbuilt features. | Computerized sewing machines come with several inbuilt patterns and designs. |
Things To Consider
Mechanical vs Computerized sewing machine; which one would you be buying? Long ago, before the advent of computerized sewing machines, mechanical sewing machines were more popular. Like all things, both of them have their advantages and disadvantages. Let us try and figure out what you need to consider before buying either of the two.
Type Of Sewing You Wish To Do
Consider the type of sewing you are planning to do. A mechanical sewing machine is a better choice if you are planning on basic sewing. A computerized sewing machine has several features such as built-in patterns, stitches, and more, which may confuse a newbie sewer.
Are You Inclined Towards Technology?
Most sewers use a mechanical sewing machine as it has less complicated features as opposed to a computerized one. While some of you who are tech-savvy would not mind a computerized sewing machine but some of us may prefer a mechanical sewing machine.
Your Budget
Before you buy anything, one of the first things you should consider is the budget you have to purchase the item. A mechanical sewing machine would be a smarter choice for those who have a lower budget as computerized sewing machines are a bit on the pricier side.
Mechanical Vs Computerized Sewing Machines: Pros and Cons
Mechanical Sewing Machine
A mechanical sewing machine is a basic machine that has physical buttons and knobs to change its settings. It does not possess the precision and extra features of a computerized sewing machine, nevertheless, they are more popular among most people.
Pros:
- Get any sort of work done: A mechanical sewing machine does heavy-duty stitching.
- Price: A mechanical sewing machine can be purchased at a lower price as compared to a computerized one.
- Easy maintenance: The parts of the mechanical sewing machine are less complicated, making it easy to maintain and create fewer issues as opposed to computerized sewing machines.
Cons:
- Limited stitches: For those who have used computerized machines will notice that mechanical sewing machines do not offer hundreds of stitches as compared to their computerized counterparts.
- Very little buttonhole options: While stitching garments, you will see that mechanical sewing machines have minimal choices in buttonholes.
- Complicated usage: For those tech-savvy people who prefer to have every work done at the touch of a button, mechanical sewing machines may be a little complicated to use, especially if they have to change some physical settings in the machine.
Computerized Sewing Machine
A computerized sewing machine houses a built-in computer and has a little monitor for displaying easier operation. These computerized machines produce hundreds of stitches, and users can control the exact pattern they need and choose from several inbuilt designs.
Pros:
- Automatic features: Computerized sewing machines have several automatic features like the automatic needle threader, thread cutter, auto tension, and more, that makes the machine more convenient. These features also help the users save time and give a better finish to the final product.
- Several stitch options: They have hundreds to stitch options, including letters and numbers and symbols, leaving the users with several options of what they need to do with their sewing project.
- Various buttonhole options: Creating a buttonhole is very easy when it comes to a computerized machine.
- Controllability: A computerized sewing machine has better speed control as compared to mechanical sewing machines. Some machines also do not require a foot pedal.
Cons:
- Overcomplicated features: The various automatic features make computerized sewing machines a little overwhelming for the less experienced sewers. There are several features that a common sewer may never use.
- Prone to get outdated with new upgrades: With every new upgrade, the machine tends to get outdated. Mechanical sewing machines stay for a longer time than computerized ones prone to more damage.
- Cost: Computerized machines are more expensive as opposed to mechanical sewing machines.
Best Mechanical Sewing Machine
Some of the top-rated mechanical sewing machines include Janome 660, Janome Magnolia 7318, Singer 4423, Brother XM2701, etc.
Best Computerized Sewing Machine
Examples of some of the best-computerized sewing machines include Brother SE600, Juki HZL-F600, Singer 9960, Janome JW8100, Singer 7258, Bernina 590E, etc.
Mechanical Vs Computerized Sewing Machine: Final Thoughts
Hope this post will help you narrow down your options and purchase the best sewing machine to suit your requirements. Choose from different sewing machines that offer various features, patterns, and designs depending on your usage and budget. Happy Sewing!
