The first step in starting (or continuing) your embroidery journey is to pick the best computerized embroidery machine for your needs.

Whether you want to embroider t-shirts for grandkids or start a home embroidery business, a good-quality machine should work with you, not against you.

If you’re overwhelmed by options, I’ll first explain some of the things you should consider before choosing a computerized embroidery machine. Then, I’ll suggest my favorite picks. I hope you’ll leave feeling equipped to choose your new addition!

12/15 Needles Computerized Hat T Shirt Embroidery Machine Home Embroidery Machines

What Computerized Can Mean to Embroiderers

When referencing embroidery machines, the term “computerized” can mean different things to different users.

Now, if you’re an experienced embroiderer, this might be old news.

But for interested newbies first investigating purchasing a machine, these insights will give you more information about how embroidery machines work and what to expect with a computerized option. 

1. An Embroidery Machine with a Computerized Interface

All modern embroidery machines have built-in computers, and most have LCD touchscreens on the front of the machine. (My biggest machine has an almost iPad-sized screen!)

The built-in computer technology is what directs the embroidery machine to stitch designs using encoded information from embroidery files. Without it, the machine would have no idea how to create the complicated stitches required for embroidery. 

Some users also use the term digital embroidery machine to refer to this type of machine. 

Now, if you’re looking for an “automatic” embroidery machine that does all the work for you, even the most advanced machines still require users to set up embroidered items, load designs, and even set needles and threads first. 

Thus, even though the machines stitch designs automatically once you push start, you still need to be able to guide the machine up until that point. 

2. An Embroidery Machine that Connects to a Computer via Cable

You can often connect most embroidery machines from the last decade to a computer using the old-school way cable. 

This allows users to transfer embroidery designs from computer to embroidery machine. 

Now, most machines from the last 3-5 years also have USB ports on the side of the machine so that you can transfer designs and software updates from your computer via jump drive instead of cable. 

3. Wireless Embroidery Machines 

The last definition of a computerized embroidery machine is one that connects via Wi-Fi to your computer, tablet, or phone. 

Thankfully, if this is the type of computerized embroidery machine you’re searching for, you’re in luck, as the Brother and Baby Lock Fall 2022 line of new sewing and embroidery combos and embroidery-only machines all offer wireless LAN compatibility. 

The top-tier Brother embroidery machines can also use My Design Snap and My Stitch Monitor. Top-of-the-line Baby Lock machines have Baby Lock equivalent apps. 

As for other embroidery machine brands like Bernina and Janome, their higher-end machines have wireless connectivity but not their more entry-level machines yet. 

Things to Consider

Now, here’s a short list of differentiating features between embroidery machines. It’s worth deciding what your must-haves are before you start seriously searching for a machine so you don’t have buyer’s remorse later. 

1. Function: Combo or Embroidery Only

If you’re looking for an embroidery-only machine, this will be a computerized machine that allows you to do only machine embroidery.

It does not have sewing functions, so you will need a second sewing machine to sew stitches. 

Embroidery-only machines are very powerful and typically less expensive than combination machines with comparable embroidery features.

On the other hand, if you want to also sew and don’t have room for two separate machines, consider a combination sewing and embroidery machine. Combo machines allow you to both sew and embroider within one machine. Switching between these two functions is easily done.

2. Hoop Size

The hoop is the container that holds your fabric to be embroidered.

Each machine has a max hoop size and thus a maximum embroidery area. Some of the older computerized embroidery machines offer as small as a 2″x2″ hoop size, and sizes go up from there.

For small sewing projects like adding logos to shirts or putting small monograms on towels, a 4″x4″ embroidery machine might be all you need. However, a larger hoop may be beneficial if you want to embroider larger areas like pillow cases or the back of a denim jacket. 

While you can still create larger designs on a machine with a small hoop size, you do have to split your design and embroider in sections, which takes more time.

3. Built-In Designs

Another consideration before purchasing is looking at the built-in embroidery designs and fonts. 

If you’re tech-savvy and plan to design your own embroidery patterns or purchase them online, you may not need many built-in designs. If you’re not looking to import designs often, consider a machine preloaded with designs. 

4. Price

The larger the hoop size and the more features present, the more expensive the embroidery machine will be. Typically, prices for new embroidery machines run from the $300’s to five figures for commercial embroidery machines! 

If you’re a beginner and want to tinker with embroidery, I recommend choosing a less expensive machine with basic features and upgrading later. If you already have a business plan and are ready to go, splurge for the machine that will save you time and hassle.

In these reviews, I’ve stuck to the more affordable embroidery machines within each line, as you won’t be able to purchase the pricier options without a trip to your local sewing machine dealer’s shop.