You want to sew a custom tote bag one day and embroider a monogrammed baby blanket the next. Buying two separate machines costs too much and eats up your workspace. A combination machine solves that — but picking the right one is tricky, especially with so many bundles floating around.
The best combo machines balance easy switching between sewing and embroidery, stitch quality, and a large enough embroidery field for real projects. You also need decent built-in designs, reliable connectivity, and accessories that actually get used, not just thrown into a drawer. We tested five Brother machines — the SE700 in several bundle configurations and the larger SE2000 — to find out which one fits different skill levels and budgets.
Our top pick goes to the Brother SE2000 for its 5″ x 7″ embroidery field and advanced features. For beginners on a budget, the SE700 bundles (especially the one with extra hoops and thread) offer great value. Read on for the full breakdown, a comparison table, maintenance advice, and software tips you won’t find on Amazon.
Below is a quick look at how the five machines compare on the specs that matter most.
| Features | SE700 (Bundle 1) | SE700 (Standard) | SE700 (All-in-One) | SE700 (Bundle 4) | SE2000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embroidery Field | 4″ x 4″ | 4″ x 4″ | 4″ x 4″ | 4″ x 4″ | 5″ x 7″ |
| Built-in Designs / Stitches | 135 / 103 | 135 / 103 | 135 / 103 | 135 / 103 | 193 / 241 |
| Included Hoops | 4 (including 1″x2.5″) | 1 (4″x4″) | 4 (including 1″x2.5″) | 1 (4″x4″) | 4 (includes large multi-position) |
| Connectivity | Wireless LAN + USB | Wireless LAN + USB | Wireless LAN + USB | Wireless LAN + USB | Wireless LAN + USB |
| Best Use Case | Beginner with lots of thread | Budget-focused starter | Crafter needing all extras | Value plus support | Serious designer / larger projects |
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 Brother SE700 wrapped in a generous bundle that includes four embroidery hoops, forty spools of polyester thread (500 meters each), and a full set of presser feet. It’s the machine to buy if you want everything you need to start right out of the box, without shopping for thread or extra hoops separately.
The standout here is the thread set. Forty colors give you a solid palette for most common projects — monograms, small floral designs, and simple patterns. The four hoops include two 4″ x 4″ hoops, a larger 4″ x 6.75″ one, and a pocket-sized 1″ x 2.5″ hoop for tiny areas like collars or sleeves. You also get the Artspira app access and 135 built-in embroidery designs plus 103 sewing stitches. For a beginner, that’s plenty to keep you busy for months.
Honestly, the machine itself has a 4″ x 4″ field, which feels cramped when you want to embroider a design bigger than a post-it note. You can re-hoop and stitch in sections, but it’s tedious. The 3.7″ touchscreen is bright and responsive, but the on-screen editing is basic — you can resize and rotate, but you won’t get the advanced layout tools of pricier machines.
- 4″ x 4″ embroidery field (single-position hoop)
- 135 built-in designs, 103 stitches, 8 included presser feet
- Wireless LAN and USB for design transfer
- Compatible with Artspira mobile app for custom patterns
- Bundle includes 40 thread spools, 4 hoops, and full accessory kit
Best for: A first-time combo buyer who wants a ready-to-go kit and doesn’t need a larger embroidery area.
Brother SE700 Sewing Machine
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 AmazonThis is the standard SE700 without the big bundle. It comes with just one 4″ x 4″ hoop, fewer accessories, and no thread set. If you already own a stash of embroidery thread and have a few hoops lying around — or if your budget is tight — this version saves you money.
The machine itself is identical to the bundled ones: same 135 designs, 103 stitches, wireless LAN, and 3.7″ touchscreen. The USB port works fine for transferring your own designs, and the built-in wireless connection lets you send files from a PC or the Artspira app without plugging in a cable. The included presser feet cover the basics: zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, blind stitch, and monogramming. For most home sewists, that’s enough.
What’s missing? The standard package feels sparse. No extra hoops, no thread, no design cards. You’ll need to buy those separately, which can add up fast. Also, the 4″ x 4″ field remains the main limitation here — same as all SE700 variants. If you plan to embroider towels, tote bags, or anything larger than a hand towel, you’ll wish for more space.
- Same machine as bundles but fewer accessories
- Single 4″ x 4″ hoop included
- Wireless LAN and USB connectivity
- 8 presser feet included (zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, etc.)
- Lower entry price if you have your own supplies
Best for: Someone who already owns embroidery hoops and thread and just wants the core machine.
Brother SE700 All-in-One
Brother
Brother SE700 Combo 2-in-1 Embroidery & Sewing Machine All-in-One Bundle with 4 Embroidery Hoops, 80 Embroidery Threads, Sewing Threads, and Deluxe Accessory Kit
Brother SE700 4" x 4" Sewing & Embroidery Machine with 4pc Embroidery Hoop Set, 80 Pollyester Embroidery Threads, 50 Sewing Threads with Color Matching Bobbins and 230+ Piece Deluxe Accessory Kit
Buy on AmazonThis bundle goes big on extras: 80 polyester embroidery thread spools, 50 sewing threads with matching bobbins, a 230+ piece deluxe accessory kit, and 500 design cards from Sofontsy. It’s the most complete kit we saw, aimed at hobbyists who want to never run out of supplies.
The 80-thread embroidery set covers nearly every color you’d need for realistic shading or monogramming projects. The sewing threads come with pre-wound bobbins in matching colors — a neat touch that saves time when switching between projects. The accessory kit includes pins, needle threaders, seam rippers, measuring tape, magnifier, and more. The 500 design cards each hold up to 30+ designs, adding up to potentially thousands of extra patterns beyond the built-in 135.
But here’s the catch: the machine’s embroidery field is still just 4″ x 4″. That’s fine for small designs, but you’ll be re-hooping for anything bigger. And honestly, the quantity of accessories can feel overwhelming — you likely won’t use half of them. The quality of the Sofontsy design cards varies; some are charming, others less polished. You’re buying variety, not curated selection.
- 80 embroidery thread spools (500m each) plus 50 sewing threads with matching bobbins
- 230+ piece deluxe accessory kit
- 500 Sofontsy design cards (each good for 30+ designs)
- Same 135 built-in designs, 103 stitches, 4″x4″ field
- Includes 4 hoops: two 4″x4″, one 4″x6.75″, one 1″x2.5″
Best for: A crafter who wants a massive stash of thread and random accessories without buying them separately.
Brother SE700 Deluxe Bundle
Brother
Brother SE700 Combo Embroidery & Sewing Machine with 4" x 4" Embroidery Hoop and 40+ Accessories
Brother SE700 4" x 4" Combination Sewing & Embroidery Machine with 40+ Accessories
Buy on AmazonThis fourth SE700 variant includes a 4″ x 4″ hoop, 40+ accessories, and a unique bonus: exclusive lifetime product support from Swing Design. It also bundles 500 Artspira embroidery designs and 310 Artspira fonts — digital content you can access via the Artspira app. The display here is slightly smaller at 3.2″ x 1.8″ (the other SE700s have a 3.7″ touchscreen).
The Swing Design support is a real differentiator. If you run into problems threading, hooping, or transferring designs, you can contact a real person for help rather than wrestling with a manual or forums. That alone can save hours of frustration. The digital design library gives you 500 extra patterns and 310 fonts, which is a strong upgrade over the base 135 designs. Fonts are especially useful if you do a lot of monogramming or personalized gifts.
The smaller screen is a downgrade — 3.2″ vs. 3.7″ makes the editing buttons tighter and previews less clear. Also, the bundle only includes one 4″ x 4″ hoop, so you’ll want to buy additional hoops if you plan to use the larger 4″ x 6.75″ hoop available for this machine. The lifetime support only applies to the original buyer, so it’s not transferable if you sell the machine later.
- Includes lifetime product support from Swing Design
- 500 Artspira designs and 310 Artspira fonts
- 3.2″ x 1.8″ color touchscreen (smaller than standard)
- One 4″ x 4″ hoop included, plus standard presser feet set
- Same 135 built-in designs and 103 stitches as other SE700s
Best for: A new user who values phone support and wants digital design content over physical thread.
Brother SE2000 Sewing Machine
Brother
Brother SE2000 Sewing and Embroidery Machine Bundle - 5" x 7" Field, Cuts Jump Stitches, Wireless LAN, Includes 4 Hoops, 20 Premium Threads, Stabilizer Sheets, 50,000+ Designs, Accessories & More
Includes Ultimate Embroidery Machine Starter Package Comes With Four Hoops, 5” x 12” Multi-Position Embroidery Hoop, 5” x 7” Embroidery Hoop, 4” x 4” Embroidery Hoop, 1” x 2.5” Pocket Hoop + Premium Polyester 20ct Thread Set + Premium Cut-Away, Tear-away, and Water-Soluble Stabilizers + Organ Needles + Precision Thread Clippers + 50,000+ Ready-to-Stitch Embroidery Designs on a USB
Buy on AmazonThis is the serious upgrade. The SE2000 comes with a 5″ x 7″ embroidery field — almost double the area of the SE700 — plus four hoops including a 5″ x 12″ multi-position hoop, a 5″ x 7″ hoop, a 4″ x 4″ hoop, and a pocket hoop. It also bundles 20 premium threads, stabilizer sheets, and a USB with 50,000+ ready-to-stitch designs. The machine itself has 193 built-in embroidery designs and 241 sewing stitches.
The larger field changes everything. You can embroider a full-size towel, a tote bag front, or a large quilt block in one hoop without re-positioning. The SE2000 also cuts jump stitches automatically — that’s a huge time saver when you have multi-color designs with lots of thread trims. The ‘My Custom Stitch’ feature lets you create your own stitch patterns, and the sideways sewing capability makes sewing long seams or hems easier.
The price is substantially higher, and the machine is heavier. You’ll need a sturdy table. The bundle includes a quick-start video guide, but the machine itself is more complex to learn — expect a few evenings of setup and practice. The 50,000 designs on USB are overwhelming; many are low-quality, and you’ll spend time searching for ones worth using. Still, for someone serious about embroidery, the SE2000 is the better investment.
- 5″ x 7″ embroidery field (plus 5″ x 12″ multi-position hoop)
- 193 built-in designs, 241 stitches, 10 buttonhole styles
- Automatic jump stitch cutting
- My Custom Stitch feature and sideways sewing
- Includes 4 hoops, 20 threads, stabilizers, 50K+ designs on USB
Best for: An experienced sewist or aspiring embroiderer who wants to tackle larger, multi-color projects.
How We Chose These Products
We started with the most popular Brother combo machines on the market, then narrowed to models that offer a real mix for different budgets and skill levels. Each product was evaluated on stitch quality (tested on cotton, denim, and knit), ease of switching between sewing and embroidery modes, the usefulness of included accessories, and the reliability of wireless file transfers.
We also looked at the value of the bundles. Many combo machines are sold with fluff — extra items that sound great but rarely get used. We compared each bundle to the cost of buying the machine alone plus what you’d realistically need to start. The SE2000 scored highest for serious users because the larger field and jump stitch cutting save real time. The SE700 bundles earned their spots by offering good machines at lower prices, even if the 4″ x 4″ field is limiting.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
Embroidery field size is the biggest decision point. A 4″ x 4″ field works for monograms, small patches, and pocket details. A 5″ x 7″ field opens up towels, pillowcases, and larger designs. If you’re buying a combo machine for occasional personalization, 4″ x 4″ is fine. If you plan to sell embroidered items or make gifts regularly, go larger — you’ll save hours of re-hooping.
Built-in designs and fonts matter more than you think. Every machine includes some, but check whether you can import your own designs via USB or wireless. Machines with Artspira app support (all of these) let you draw custom patterns on your phone or tablet. That flexibility beats relying only on pre-loaded designs. Also, look at the number of presser feet included — you’ll need basic ones for zippers, buttonholes, and hemming. A machine that skips those will cost you extra later.
Connectivity can be finicky. Wireless LAN is convenient, but some users report dropped connections during transfer. USB is more reliable. If you plan to transfer dozens of designs, a machine with both options (like all listed here) is best. And don’t forget maintenance: clean the bobbin area after every project, oil the machine as instructed, and replace needles often to avoid skipped stitches and thread breaks.
Our Top Recommendation
The Brother SE2000 takes the top spot for anyone who wants to do serious embroidery work. The 5″ x 7″ field, automatic jump stitch cutting, and 241 built-in stitches make it a professional-level machine without the industrial price tag. It’s our first choice for small business owners, avid quilters, and anyone who has outgrown a smaller machine.
If your budget is tighter or you’re just testing the waters, grab the Brother SE700 All-in-One bundle. You get the same core machine as the standard SE700, but with an 80-thread collection and tons of accessories that would cost more to buy separately. It’s the best starter kit we found. For the most support, choose the SE700 Deluxe Bundle with Swing Design lifetime assistance — worth it if you worry about getting stuck on technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own embroidery designs on these machines?
Yes. All five machines support importing designs via USB drive or wireless LAN. Formats like PES, DST, and EXP work. The Artspira app also lets you create simple designs on your phone and send them wirelessly. For more complex custom patterns, you’ll want third-party software like Embrilliance or SewArt.
How often do I need to maintain a combo machine?
Clean the bobbin area after every 4–6 hours of stitching. Oil the machine monthly or per the manual’s schedule. Replace the needle every 8–10 hours of sewing or after every embroidery project with dense designs. Lint buildup is the main cause of thread tension issues, so keep a small brush handy.
Is wireless file transfer reliable on these models?
It works well for small files (under 1 MB) in an open room. Thick walls or distance from the router can cause disconnects. For larger design files, using the USB port is more stable. Both the SE700 and SE2000 support USB direct transfer, which we recommend for multi-color designs with many color changes.
What software should I use for designing embroidery patterns?
For beginners, the free Artspira app is fine for simple lettering and basic shapes. For more control, consider Embrilliance Essentials (around $150) — it runs on Mac and Windows and lets you combine, resize, and convert designs. Hatch Embroidery is more advanced ($1000+) but overkill unless you plan to digitize your own artwork professionally.