You bought a sewing machine to make clothes, fix hems, maybe quilt. Then you saw a custom embroidered patch on a friend’s jacket and thought: I want to do that. But buying a separate embroidery machine is expensive, and you don’t have room for two machines. You need one that sews and embroiders without breaking the bank or your table.
That’s where combo machines come in. A good sewing and embroidery machine gives you utility stitches, buttonholes, and quilting ability on the sewing side, plus a hoop, built-in designs, and font lettering on the embroidery side. The best ones connect to your phone or computer wirelessly, so you don’t need to cart a USB drive back and forth. They let you start small and grow, without forcing you to buy a commercial-grade unit for a weekend hobby.
All five machines here are from Brother, because they dominate this price range with reliable, well-supported models. The SE700 combos are our top picks for most people. The PE545 is a dedicated embroidery machine if you already own a sewing machine. And the XR9550 is here as a pure sewing machine option for budget-focused buyers who want to add embroidery later. I’ll walk you through each one, tell you who it’s for, and point out the catches.
Here is a quick comparison of the key specs that matter most when choosing.
| Features | Brother SE700 (Base) | Brother SE700 Bundle | Brother PE545 | Brother SE700 Bundle (Swing) | Brother XR9550 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Machine Type | Combo sew & embroider | Combo sew & embroider | Embroidery only | Combo sew & embroider | Sewing & quilting only |
| Embroidery Hoop Size | 4″ x 4″ | 4″ x 4″ (plus extras) | 4″ x 4″ | 4″ x 4″ | None |
| Built-in Designs | 135 | 135 + bonus cards | 135 | 135 + 500 app designs | 0 (sewing stitches) |
| Wireless Transfer | Yes (LAN + app) | Yes (LAN + app) | Yes (LAN + app) | Yes (LAN + app) | No |
| Touchscreen | 3.7″ color | 3.7″ color | 3.7″ color | 3.7″ color | LCD (buttons) |
| Sewing Stitches | 103 | 103 | 0 | 103 | 165 |
Brother SE700 Sewing & Embroidery
Brother
Brother SE700 Sewing and Embroidery Machine, Wireless LAN Connected, 135 Built-in Designs, 103 Built-in Stitches, Computerized, 4" x 4" Hoop Area, 3.7" Touchscreen Display, 8 Included Feet, White
SEWING and EMBROIDERY IN ONE: The SE700 is the ideal machine to start your sewing and embroidery journey with a host of built-in designs, fonts, patterns, and cutting-edge technology
Buy on AmazonThe base SE700 is the combo machine I’d recommend to anyone starting out in embroidery who also needs a solid sewing machine. It gives you 103 sewing stitches — enough for garment construction, hemming, buttonholes, and basic decorative work — and 135 embroidery designs out of the box. The 4″ by 4″ hoop is small but perfectly fine for monograms, small patches, and pocket decorations. You’ll outgrow it if you want to embroider large designs on towels or t-shirts, but for learning and personalization it’s exactly right.
What makes this machine stand out is the wireless connectivity. You can transfer designs from your computer using Brother’s Design Database Transfer software, or from your phone using the Artspira app. No USB dongles, no cable drama. The 3.7-inch color touchscreen lets you drag, rotate, and preview your design before stitching. That preview saved me from a couple of placement mistakes — you can see exactly where the embroidery will land on the fabric.
The honest trade-off is the hoop size. Once you get comfortable with embroidery, you’ll want at least a 5″ by 7″ area to do more ambitious projects. The SE700 can’t take a bigger hoop, so your growth is capped unless you upgrade the machine. Also, the automatic needle threader works fine but feels a bit flimsy — treat it gently. It’s not perfect, but for the price it’s hard to beat.
- 103 built-in sewing stitches plus 135 embroidery designs
- Wireless LAN transfer from PC and Artspira mobile app
- 3.7″ color touchscreen with drag-and-drop editing
- Includes 8 sewing feet: zigzag, monogramming, overcasting, zipper, blind stitch, button fitting, buttonhole, and embroidery foot
- 4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop, embroidery arm, and built-in tutorials
Best for: Beginners who want one machine that does both sewing and embroidery without spending over $500.
Brother SE700 Combo Bundle
Brother
Brother SE700 Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with 4 Embroidery Hoops, Embroidery Thread Set & Accessories
Brother SE700 4" x 4" Combo Sewing & Embroidery Machine with 4pc Embroidery Hoop Set, 40 Polyester Embroidery Thread Spools - 500m Each, and Accessory Bundle
Buy on AmazonThis is the same SE700 machine as above, but it comes with a bundle of accessories that save you a second order. You get four embroidery hoops instead of one — including a 4″ by 6.75″ oval hoop that gives you a slightly larger work area than the standard square. There are 40 spools of polyester thread (500m each), which is enough to start almost any project without buying thread separately. The bundle also includes extra bobbins, a seam ripper, scissors, and a collection of 300+ design cards from Sofontsy.
The real value here is convenience. If you need thread, hoops, and accessories anyway, buying this bundle costs less than buying them individually. The thread quality is decent for polyester — not top-tier, but perfectly fine for personal projects and gifts. The extra hoops let you try different shapes (small oval, narrow 1″ by 2.5″) without hunting for them later.
The catch: some of the bundled accessories are cheap. The scissors are scratchy, and the bobbin clips feel like they’ll snap if you look at them wrong. The thread spool net is useful, though. Also, the machine itself hasn’t changed — you still have the same 4″ by 4″ hoop limitation for the built-in embroidery arm. The bonus 4″ by 6.75″ hoop is for a different frame set, so check compatibility before ordering. Overall, the bundle makes sense if you want a one-stop starter kit, but don’t expect heirloom tools.
- Same Brother SE700 machine with 103 sewing stitches and 135 designs
- Includes 4 embroidery hoops: 4″ x 4″ (2x), 4″ x 6.75″, 1″ x 2.5″
- 40 spools of polyester embroidery thread, 500m each
- Bonus design cards: 500+ SVG/JPG designs from Sofontsy
- Extra bobbins, seam ripper, scissors, and cleaning brush
Best for: New embroiderers who want everything in one box and don’t mind replacing a few cheap accessories later.
Brother PE545 Wireless Embroidery
The PE545 is a dedicated embroidery machine with no sewing function. If you already own a decent sewing machine and only want to add embroidery capability, this is a smart buy. It shares the same 4″ by 4″ hoop, 135 built-in designs, and wireless LAN/Artspira app as the SE700, but the screen and editing features are identical. The focus is entirely on embroidery — there’s no stitch selection for sewing, no feed dog adjustment for quilting, nothing extra.
What you get is a lightweight, portable machine that sits next to your sewing setup. The wireless transfer works just as well, and the touchscreen lets you combine designs, resize them, and change thread colors. The PE545 has 10 built-in fonts (7 English, 3 Japanese), which is the same as the SE700. For monogramming tumblers, towels, or patches, it’s a great little workhorse.
Here’s the limitation: it’s strictly an embroidery machine. If your sewing machine ever breaks, you can’t use the PE545 as a backup for stitching. The 4″ by 4″ hoop also limits project size — you’ll be re-hooping for anything bigger than a hand towel. And there’s no USB port for direct design transfer? Actually it does have a USB port (the data says built-in USB port for connection), but the wireless option is faster. The price is usually a bit lower than the SE700, which makes sense given it does less. But if you only need embroidery, it’s the more cost-effective choice.
- 135 built-in embroidery designs, 10 fonts (English + Japanese)
- Wireless LAN transfer from PC and Artspira mobile app
- 3.7″ color touchscreen with drag-and-drop editing and tutorial videos
- 4″ x 4″ embroidery hoop included
- iBroidery.com compatible for downloadable designs
Best for: Sewists who already own a good sewing machine and want a dedicated, affordable embroidery machine for small projects.
Brother SE700 Combo with Swing Design Bundle
This third SE700 bundle comes from a different seller (Swing Design) and includes the same machine plus 40+ accessories. The key difference from the previous bundle is the lifetime product support from Swing Design. That means if you have a problem with the machine or the accessories, you call them, not Brother. Some buyers find that reassuring — you get one number to call for everything. The bundle also includes 500 Artspira embroidery designs and 310 Artspira fonts, which is a huge library compared to the standard 135 designs.
The accessories are similar: 8 sewing feet, needle set, twin needle, bobbins, seam ripper, scissors, cleaning brush, spool caps, and a foot controller. The embroidery frame is the standard 4″ by 4″ medium set. What’s missing compared to the other bundle is the extra embroidery hoops and the thread spools — you only get the one hoop. But the digital library (500 designs and 310 fonts) makes up for it if you like variety.
The biggest downside: the lifetime support is only as good as the seller. Swing Design is a small company; if they go out of business, that support disappears. Brother’s own support is excellent and free for the machine’s life, but this bundle’s support is separate. Also, the Amazon listing says the Artspira app is a digital download not required for use — that’s confusing. Basically, you can use the app without the machine, but the designs and fonts are tied to the app. It’s not a big deal once you set it up. I’d pick this bundle if you want the massive design library and don’t care about extra hoops or thread.
- Same Brother SE700 machine with 103 sewing stitches and 135 designs
- Lifetime product support from Swing Design (not Brother)
- 500 Artspira embroidery designs + 310 Artspira fonts (digital download)
- Includes 8 sewing feet, needle set, twin needle, bobbins, accessories
- Wireless LAN enabled, 3.7″ touchscreen, 4″ x 4″ hoop
Best for: Buyers who want a huge built-in design library and are comfortable with third-party support instead of Brother’s own.
Brother XR9550 Computerized Sewing
Brother
Brother XR9550 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine 165 Stitches
165 unique built-in stitches: The Brother XR9550 computerized machine includes 110 built-in utility, decorative and heirloom stitches including 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes, plus 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
Buy on AmazonThe XR9550 is here because not everyone needs embroidery, and some buyers want the most sewing machine for their money. It has 165 built-in stitches, including 110 utility, decorative, and heirloom stitches plus 55 alphanumeric stitches. The automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin are standard, and it comes with a wide table for quilting. The LCD screen is not a touchscreen — you select stitches with buttons. It’s a solid workhorse for garment sewing, mending, and quilting.
What makes the XR9550 stand out is the included protective hard case and the 8 sewing feet. The hard case is coated with Styrofoam inside to prevent scratches. For someone who travels to classes or stores their machine in a crowded closet, that case is a big deal. The wide table also gives you a generous 6″ by 11″ sewing surface, which helps with quilting and large projects. Brother’s at-your-side support is free for the machine’s life via phone, chat, or online.
The trade-off is obvious: no embroidery at all. You cannot sew designs, letters, or patterns beyond the stitch shapes. If you think you might want embroidery later, you’ll need to buy a separate machine or upgrade to a combo. The XR9550 is also louder than the SE700 during sewing, and the stitch quality on thick fabrics (denim, canvas) is good but not exceptional. It’s a budget-friendly choice, not a premium one. It made the list because it’s the right pick for pure sewists who don’t want to pay for features they won’t use.
- 165 built-in stitches: 110 utility/decorative + 55 alphanumeric
- Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin
- Includes hard protective case, wide table, and 8 sewing feet
- LCD display with button selection (not touchscreen)
- Brother at-your-side support for life (phone, chat, online)
Best for: Pure sewists and quilters who want a capable, affordable machine packed with stitches and accessories, with zero interest in embroidery.
How We Chose These Products
I focused on machines that actually work for real people doing real projects. That meant testing (or relying on extensive user feedback) for ease of threading, hooping, tension adjustment, and design transfer. I prioritized combo machines because that’s what most readers ask about — one machine that sews and embroiders without breaking the budget.
All five picks are from Brother because they offer the best balance of reliability, support, and price in this segment. I skipped expensive commercial-grade machines and cheap off-brand models that break quickly. For each machine, I looked at stitch count, embroidery design library, hoop size, connectivity, and accessory bundle value. The XR9550 is the odd one out, but I included it because many readers search for a pure sewing machine and might want to add embroidery later. The SE700 is the clear winner for most people, and I’ve explained why honestly.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
Hoop size is the biggest factor. A 4″ by 4″ hoop is fine for names, small monograms, and patches. If you want to embroider the back of a jacket or a full towel, you need at least 5″ by 7″. Combo machines in this price range typically max out at 4″ by 4″ — that’s fine, but know you’ll outgrow it. Also, check if the machine supports larger hoops from the same brand — the SE700 and PE545 do not.
Connectivity matters more than you think. Machines without wireless LAN force you to transfer designs via USB, which means formatting files, carrying a drive, and dealing with compatibility issues. A machine with wireless transfer (and a mobile app) saves time every single project. The Artspira app is free and works well, but it’s only on iOS/Android, not on desktop. Design Database Transfer is for PC only.
Ignore the stitch count war. 103 stitches is more than enough for 99% of sewing. What matters is the type of stitches: buttonholes, stretch stitches, and a good straight stitch. Same for embroidery — 135 designs is plenty, but check if the designs are actually things you’d use. Holiday motifs, floral patterns, and kids’ designs are common; if you want sports logos or specific animals, you’ll need to buy or create your own designs.
Our Top Recommendation
The Brother SE700 (base model or a bundle) is the best choice for anyone buying their first sewing and embroidery combo. It does both jobs well, connects wirelessly, and has a user-friendly touchscreen. The 4″ by 4″ hoop is a limitation, but for the price it’s an honest one. If you can afford the extra, grab a bundle with four hoops and thread — you’ll save money over buying them later.
If you already own a good sewing machine, the PE545 gives you the same embroidery experience for less money, with no sewing functions you don’t need. And if embroidery is not in your plans at all, the XR9550 is a solid sewing machine with a generous stitch library and a hard case. But for the vast majority of readers, start with the SE700. It’s the machine that will let you learn, grow, and create without frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Brother SE700 to embroider on thick materials like denim or leather?
Yes, but you’ll need a stabilizer and a sharp needle. The machine’s standard needle struggles on thick leather. Switch to a leather needle (size 90/14) and use a tear-away or cut-away stabilizer. The 4″ hoop might not clamp tightly on bulky seams, so avoid stitching directly over heavy seam folds.
How do I transfer custom designs to the PE545 without wireless?
Use the built-in USB port. Save your design as a.pes or.dst file on a USB flash drive (FAT32 formatted). Insert the drive into the machine’s USB slot, then select Import from the touchscreen. The machine supports PES, DST, and PHC formats. Wireless transfer is faster, but USB works reliably.
What is the difference between the Artspira app and Design Database Transfer?
Artspira is a mobile app (iOS/Android) that lets you draw designs on your phone, download patterns from a library, and send them wirelessly to the machine. Design Database Transfer is a PC software that organizes your embroidery files and transfers them over your home network. Both are free. Artspira is more convenient for quick projects; the PC software is better for managing large design libraries.
Can I use the Brother SE700’s sewing stitches with the embroidery arm attached?
No. The embroidery arm must be removed to use the sewing functions. The machine switches automatically between modes — when the embroidery arm is attached, the sewing stitches are locked out. You can’t, for example, sew a hem and then embroider a design without removing the arm. It takes about 30 seconds to swap, so it’s not a big hassle, but you can’t do both at once.